Julianne Mosher captured these scenes at theĀ 2023 Seaside Hunter Derby at Old Field Farm in Setauket on June 18. The event was held in conjunction with Gallery North’s 19th annual Wet Paint Festival, giving over 40 artists much inspiration for their plein air painting.
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Wet Paint Festival. Photo by Julianne Mosher
By Julianne Mosher
On June 17 and 18, visitors from across Long Island headed to Old Field Farm in Setauket for Gallery North’s 19th annual Wet Paint Festival, a fun-filled weekend to not only admire local artists practicing their craft en plein air, but to see the excitement of a derby. According to Sally Lynch, owner and farm operator, the festival couldnāt have come during a better weekend.
The 2023 Seaside Hunter Derby took place on June 18 on the campus and as the riders competed, over 40 artists took to their canvases to paint and sketch the local scenery and content.Ā
āAll the horse people are thrilled to see their horses painted,ā said Lynch. āThereās a reason why the horse remains a constant subject of the arts.ā
She added that the day before, the farm hosted vintage riders (ones who ride side saddle) in full old-school costume who also modeled for the artists on-site.Ā
The two-day festival also featured nature walks courtesy of the Four Harbors Audubon Society, live music by Tom Killourhy and the Keenan Zach Trio, plein air art tours with Jim Molloy and Nancy Bueti-Randall, a history tour with Margo Arceri of Tri-Spy Tours and an animal presentation by Sweetbriar Nature Center.
The event was sponsored by bld Architecture, Jeffersonās Ferry and Suffolk Countyās Department of Economic Development and Planning.
All of the artwork created at the festival will be on display at the Reboli Center for Art and History, 64 Main St., Stony Brook on July 5 through August 27. The public is invited to an opening reception on July 21 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Curinne Polizzi, owner of Ivory & Main: The Curvy Corner Boutique.
Photo by Julianne Mosher
After a successful five years selling plus-size wedding gowns and occasion wear on the South Shore, a Comsewogue High School graduate is making her way back north for her second shop ā Ivory & Main: The Curvy Corner Boutique.
After graduating, Curinne Polizzi went straight into the workforce, getting a job in retail and falling more in love with fashion.
āI always knew I wanted to own a shop, and then bridal just fell into my lap,ā she said.
It began when she was looking for her own wedding gown. Polizzi said that when she was growing up in Port Jefferson Station, it was often hard to find clothing as she began to gain weight, and then finding a gown for her wedding opened her eyes.
There were no strictly plus-size gown stores on Long Island. In fact, the closest similar wedding shop was in Maryland.
She remembered sitting at her kitchen table talking to her grandmother who said she should open her own wedding gown store on Long Island. On March 15, 2018, Ivory & Main: The Curvy Bridal Boutique opened in Sayville and it was a hit.
Since then, she has sold thousands of wedding gowns to women of all sizes, dresses to mothers of the bride and prom gowns. She had to expand in Sayville twice because it was getting so popular, soon realizing she needed to open up a second location.
āMy five-year plan was to open up a second store,ā she said.
And five years exactly to the day of getting the keys to her Sayville bridal boutique, Polizzi got a second set to her newest location, The Curvy Corner in downtown Port Jefferson.
The 46-year-old mom of three, who now lives in Oakdale, said when she heard Christinaās Fashion Handbags, formerly located at 98 Main Street, had closed, she had to take a look. As soon as Polizzi walked in, she said, she knew this was the spot and signed the lease.
āI grew up down here, and Iāve always loved Port Jeff,ā she said. āWhen I moved to the South Shore, I hadnāt been here in a long time, but when I found this space, I asked if I could sign the papers that day.ā She added, āI felt like I was coming home.ā
Since officially opening its doors in May, Polizzi is already gaining a lot of visibility. She said she has a large client base who comes in from out of state. Compared to its sister store south, Ivory & Main: The Curvy Corner Boutique will house more date-night or wedding-guest looks like sundresses, jumpsuits and other occasion wear looks.
The back of the shop has racks of elegant evening gowns for prom and mothers of the bride that go up to size 30, as well as a wide variety of fun accessories like jewelry, handbags and hats for which anyone can shop.
The styles she brings can appeal to the younger clientele, which has always been a struggle for more inclusive clothing brands. Polizzi said that sometimes other plus-size stores or brands have baggier, more matriarchal styles that may not suit everyone. What she has to offer is trendy ā and will have something for everyone.
āThis type of store is what I wanted when I was in high school,ā she said.
Ivory & Main: The Curvy Corner Boutique sells clothing ranging from size large to 5X and will have its grand opening June 17 from noon to 9 p.m. featuring sales and other surprises for people visiting the boutique.
Deputy Mayor Kathianne Snaden welcomed the new shop with open arms, saying she is happy to see another new business owner investing in Port Jefferson, especially one who came back to town, as Polizzi has.
āIt has always been my priority to make Port Jefferson a place folks want to live, work and play,ā Snaden said. āSeeing new businesses moving in lets me know that what weāre doing is working.ā
The store, located at 98 Main Street, is open Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.IvoryMain.com.
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone marches in the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone marches in the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
A scene from the 2023 Pride Parade in Huntington. Photo by Julianne Mosher
The 33rd annual Long Island Pride Parade and Festival, coordinated by the Hauppauge-based LGBT Network, hit Huntington this past weekend, bringing members of the community of all ages together in a welcoming and supportive setting.Ā
āThis is important and critical to bring visibility to our community and makes sure people know that we are here, we exist and weāre not going anywhere,ā said Robert Vitelli, chief executive officer of the LGBT Network.Ā
On Sunday, June 11, the streets of Huntington Village were draped in rainbow, pink and blue to show support for the LGBTQIA+ community. Couples and their allies marched together to show unity with the help of business sponsors and elected officials from across the Island.Ā
Parade-goers included Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone (D), who marched alongside other members of the Suffolk legislature, as well as a few Huntington officials. News 12 anchor Erin Colton MCād the event, welcoming an extra special guest, part-time Long Island resident and TV personality Ross Mathews, who served as the paradeās grand marshal with his husband, Elmont school district director of curriculum and instruction, Wellingthon Garcia-Mathews.Ā
Mathews is known for his role as co-host on the daily syndicated talk show, āThe Drew Barrymore Show,ā as well as a judge and producer on āRuPaulās Drag Race.ā He has also appeared on āThe Tonight Show with Jay Leno,ā āChelsea Lately,ā his own weekly talk show, āHello Ross on E!,ā āE!ās Live From the Red Carpet,ā āHollywood Today Liveā and more.
āAs a new Long Island resident, Iāve felt embraced and welcomed to Long Island, where my husband and I have chosen to build our life together,ā Mathews said in a statement. āAnd now we get to celebrate pride with our neighbors, friends and family at a time when our community needs to stand together stronger than ever.ā
The parade and festival began on Gerard Street and Main, marching up to Heckscher Park for the festivities. Dozens of vendors, resources for LGBTQIA+ people, food trucks and music filled the space, which included performances by local drag queens Ariel Sinclair and Androgyny. Kim Sozzi and Crystal Waters, known for their club hits in the 1990s and 2000s, sang for the crowd, as well as cover bands Vinal Revival, Radio Active and Jesse Wagner, a Donna Summer tribute.
Artist Laura DiLeone at a previous Wet Paint Festival. Photo courtesy of Gallery North
*See schedule of events for both days at end of article
By Julianne Mosher
It all started as an event to remember a local painter, but now, 19 years later, itās bringing new artists to light.Ā
Since 2004 Gallery Northās annual Wet Paint Festival has invited artists from across Long Island to set up shop at a different location to paint the landscape in real time. This yearās festival, on June 17 and 18, will be held at Old Field Farm in Setauket.
Open and free to the public, the Wet Paint Festival will have something for everyone. Located at 92 West Meadow Road, Old Field Farm is a historical Long Island show grounds with a long equestrian tradition. According to its website, the farm was built by philanthropist Ward Melville as the North Shore Horse Show Grounds in 1931. For over half a century it attracted thousands of riders and spectators to equestrian competitions, many of which were successful charitable fundraisers.Ā
Artist Angela Stratton at a previous Wet Paint Festival. Photo courtesy of Gallery North
The farm was privately owned until 1986 and was then acquired by Suffolk County to prevent commercial sale of the property or possible subdivision and development as it stood vacant and began to deteriorate. The site added that during this time, the county initiated a search to identify an appropriate entity to take on an extensive restoration required and manage Old Field Farm and return this prized local institution to its rightful place in the community.
Now several decades later, Gallery North chose their annual two-day event to take place at this scenic location. According to Executive Director Ned Puchner, they are expecting at least 50 artists to come by, set up shop and paint plein air.Ā
āThe festival is always in a new location and gives local artists the opportunity to not only paint the local scenery, but meet the public,ā he said. āItās also a great way for artists who are new to painting to try it out.ā
Ā The festival started out as a tribute to local painter Joseph Reboli who was popularly known for his beautifully crafted landscapes that often depicted local area. His widow, Lois, helped create the Reboli Center for Art and History in Stony Brook. As president of the center, she has been involved with the Wet Paint Festival since its inception.
āJoe was a modest guy,ā she said. āHe painted because he loved this community; Iām sure he would be extremely honored.ā
As the artists paint the different scenes at Old Field Farm, whatever is created during those days will then be on display at the Reboli Center in an exhibition from July 5 to August 27. An opening reception will be held at the Center on July 21 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
āWeāre thrilled to be a part of it again and have the opportunity to be involved with the community,ā added Reboli. āThis is what weāre all about.āĀ
While the main purpose is watching artists (coming from as far west as Port Washington to eastern Wading River), there are other events that day that will fancy people of all ages. Guides from the historic farm will be on site to provide tours of the Old Field Farm structures and grounds, and provide information on equestrian history and culture.Ā
Local naturalists from theĀ Four Harbors Audubon SocietyĀ will lead tours on the rich ecology and wildlife of the surrounding area, regional artists will lead guided tours onĀ plein airĀ painting, and there will be children’s activities as well.
Sponsored by bld Architecture, Jeffersonās Ferry and Suffolk Countyās Department of Economic Development and Planning, Gallery North will also team up withĀ WUSB 90.1 fm/107.3 fmĀ Stony Brook to present live musical performances each day. LevelUp Kitchen, based in St. James, will also be on site to purchase picnic lunches before the event.
āEvery year the festival has been growing,ā Puchner said. āThree years ago there were about 30 artists who signed up, now itās a little over 50.ā He added that last year was the first time they added tours and music, which was a huge success.
āWeāre really happy about how itās been developing,ā he said. āThere is a vibrant creative community made up of artists, musicians, actors and the like that live in the area and this is a great opportunity to come out, go to a free event and meet the creative community in action.ā
Selden-based artist Angela Stratton is excited to be returning to the event she has been attending for 17 years.Ā
“As an artist, I love being outside in nature,ā she said. āLong Island is beautiful and there are so many places to paint, so I want to go out and paint it!ā
The Wet Paint Festival will be held on June 17 and 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Ā (Rain dates are June 24 and 25). For more information about the festival or to register to paint, visit www.gallerynorth.org or call 631-751-2676.Ā
Wet Paint Festival Schedule:
Saturday, June 17
10 a.m. – Nature Walk with the Four Harbors Audubon Society
11:30 a.m. – Meet local wildlife, courtesy of Sweetbriar Nature Center
12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Live music by Tom Killourhy
1:30 p.m. – Plein Air Art Tour with artist Jim Molloy
Sunday, June 18
10 a.m. – Nature Walk with the Four Harbors Audubon Society
11:30 a.m – History Tour with Margo Arceri of Tri-Spy Tours
12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Live music by the Keenan Zach Trio
1:30 p.m. – Plein Air Art Tour with artist Nancy Bueti-Randall
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
A scene from 'The Sound of Music'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
By Julianne Mosher
The stage at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport turns into 1930s Austria with its latest production of The Sound of Music and it will have everyone in the audience feel all the emotions.
Based on the real Von Trapp family, and the real events they endured when the Naziās invaded their hometown of Austria at the start of World War II, the cast and crew of the latest local production does the original Tony Award-winning show justice with a fantastic lineup of talented actors.
Directed by Drew Humphrey, the show starts off with the Nuns of Nonnberg Abbey ensemble who sing a haunting, and beautiful Preludium hymm with a stellar performance by CĆ”itlin Burke who plays the Mother Abbess. The set quickly changes from the church courthouse to the rolling blue and purple hills, where our favorite nun-turned-nanny, Maria Rainer (played by Kayleen Seidl), sings the famous classic, āThe Sound of Music.ā
Made famous by the Oscar-winning 1965 remake of the original Broadway show that starred Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, the audience follows the curious and rebellious Maria as she leaves the Abbey to help a widowed father take care of his seven children. In the Von Trapp home, Maria teaches Louisa, Kurt, Liesl, Friedrich, Brigitta, Marta and little Gretl āMy Favorite Thingsā and āDo-Re-Mi,ā which had the audience singing along in their seats.Ā
Seidlās performance of Maria made the audience fall in love with her just as Naval Captain Georg Von Trapp (played by Tim Rogan) and his children eventually do throughout the show. But what also received a standing ovation during last Friday’s show was the performance of those children who rehearsed for weeks after school and their extra curriculars to share the spotlight with some of the most talented actors the industry has to offer. Of that performance, Kayla Kennedy (Brigitta), Laura Park (the mature and almost-17-Liesl), and Micaela Maio, who played little Gretl, were standout stars.
Choreographed by Mandy Modic, the musical number of āSixteen Going on Seventeenā featuring Park and her Rolf Gruber (played by understudy Max Desantis) was playful and impressive using props from the villaās courtyard to assist them dance around during their flirtatious banter. The set design was able to quickly change with ease, turning from a church, to the mountains, to the Von Trapp living room and bedrooms, to the outside courtyard where the two teenagers would sneak out to.
And we cannot forget other members of the cast, like Matthew Bryan Feld (Max Detweiler) and Angel Reda (as Elsa Schraeder) who were also lovable ⦠even if they didnāt agree with the captainās politics and played more selfish parts. Reda, who alone has a long resume of national and regional shows, just finished her latest stint with Chicago on Broadway.Ā
While The Sound of Music may not be the happiest of stories, the cast and crew at the Engeman Theater does the show right with a fantastic lineup to match an amazing score that is fit for anyone, any age, or whether they are 16 going on 17.
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents The Sound of Music through July 2. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $85 for Saturday performances and $80 for all others showings, and can be purchased by calling 631-261-2900 or online at www.engemantheater.com.
The cast of 'The Comedy of Errors'
Photo by Julianne Mosher/TBR News Media
By Julianne Mosher
The theater department at Suffolk County Community College’s Ammerman campus does not disappoint with their latest production of William Shakespeareās The Comedy of Errors.
A scene from ‘The Comedy of Errors’ Photo by Julianne Mosher/TBR News Media
This classic slapstick comedy follows two sets of identical twins who were separated as infants during a storm at sea. Set in the Greek city of Ephesus, we meet a merchant named Aegeon, played by SCCC student Stefan Pallotta, whoās monologue tells the audience of his arrest and the tale of the shipwreck that separated his family ā his twin sons, both named Antipholus, his wife, Amelia, and two twin servant boys, both named Dromio.Ā
Eighteen years later, Aegeon allows his son and servant to travel to Ephesus to search for their long-lost twins but they too disappear. Now, Aegeon has come to the city to find them, but is arrested due to the animosity between the citizens of Ephesus and Syracuse (where the merchant is from).Ā Pallottaās early monologue is not an easy one to remember,but he does so impressively.Ā
Later on, we meet Antipholus (of Syracuse) played by Cara Macedonio along with servant Dromio played by Meredith Reed. When the two Syracuse-ians are off and about, we meet their long-lost brothers, Antipholus of Ephesus, played by Kayla Bruno, and his Dromio played by Jerry Ewald.Ā
A scene from ‘The Comedy of Errors’ Photo by Julianne Mosher/TBR News Media
The cast does a great job getting into their characters. Not only did they have to learn the rhymes of Shakespeare and ye-old language, but they also have to convince the audience of who they were ā and they were funny! The performances of the two Dromioās had the audience laughing during their performance last Saturday night. While Shakespeare might be hard to understand, the actors made the whole show completely coherent.
But we mustnāt forget the leading ladies of the show ā Antipholus of Ephesusās wife, Adriana, played by Madison Dodge, and her lovable sister Luciana, played by Kayla Pisano. While the two characters are completely different in personality, both Dodge and Pisano shine during their scenes.Ā
Adriana, the tougher of the two, proves herself with her wit and no-nonsense attitude when faced with her āhusbandā acting oddly (surprise, it was the wrong Antipholus she was inviting to dinner). Then Luciana, the beauty who unintendedly seduces her ābrother-in-lawā will have you roar when you see the interaction between her and Antipholus of Syracuse.
But thatās just the beginning. For an hour-and-a-half, youāll see the two sets of twins unknowingly interact with each other on several occasions that will make your skin curl with embarrassment for what is going on, but also laugh out loud.
A scene from ‘The Comedy of Errors’ Photo by Julianne Mosher/TBR News Media
Other standout performances include Brooke Morabito as Luce, the greasy kitchen wench, the alcoholic officer played by Malachai Casanova, Duke Solinus portrayed by Krystyna Plesnik, Hailey Wenkeās Amelia/Courtesan and Gabriel Patrascuās Pinch/Angelo.
However, the show would not have been complete without the fantastic set design and costumes which really set the tone of the show.Ā
Director Steve Marsh said that he wanted to bring a bit of an edge to the show, which has been known as a slapstick comedy for centuries. While it was filled with humor, it had the underlying, more somber, tone of what a trade war and immigration can do to a community which made it almost more real.Ā
āThe program here at Suffolk and the students are so fantastic,ā Marsh said. āIāve been coming here for over 40 years ā this is where I saw my first show and what got me interested in acting.ā
Suffolk County Community College, 533 College Road, Selden presents The Comedy of Errors at the Shea Theatre inside the Islip Arts Building on April 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. and April 23 at 2 p.m. General admission is $15. Veterans and students 16 years of age or younger is $10. Suffolk students with current ID receive two free tickets. To order, visit sunysuffolk.edu/spotlight or call 631-451-4163.
The cast of Pride @ Prejudice, clockwise from top left, David DiMarzo, Christine Boehm, Andrew Murano, Michelle LaBozzetta and Ashley Brooke. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
Andrew Murano and Ashley Brooke in a scene from 'Pride @ Prejudice'. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
Andrew Murano in a scene from 'Pride @ Prejudice'. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
Ashley Brook and Andrew Murano in a scene from 'Pride @ Prejudice'. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
A scene form 'Pride @ Prejudice'. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
A scene form 'Pride @ Prejudice'. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
Dvid DiMarzo and Ashley Brook. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
A scene form 'Pride @ Prejudice'. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
A scene form 'Pride @ Prejudice'. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
A scene form 'Pride @ Prejudice'. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
The cast of Pride @ Prejudice, clockwise from top left, David DiMarzo, Christine Boehm, Andrew Murano, Michelle LaBozzetta and Ashley Brooke. Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three
By Julianne Mosher
You donāt have to be an avid reader of the classics to appreciate Theatre Threeās latest offering. The main stage production of Daniel Elihu Kramerās Pride @ Prejudice is a mix of a telling of the 19th century novel written by Jane Austen and a clever modernization of the 1813 classic that explains the book with humor and wit.Ā
The story is of Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy who fall in love all over again ā this time filtered through the world of the internet. Modern voices interject and build on this classic love story in the form of blog posts, chat room discussions, quotes from film adaptations, and even letters from Jane Austen herself to create a delightfully postmodern view of 19th century England.Ā
Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, the show opened on April 7 to a full house. While the cast is small (just five people) each of their personalities are big. Most of the actors play at least two characters who go between present-day and the bookās settings of Netherfield Park and Longbourn.
And each performer had the audience laughing. Christine Boehm (who plays Elizabeth Bennet) plays the protagonist well, leading with poise but also leads some laughs. Throughout the play, the actors make several references to the culture behind Pride and Prejudice, poking fun at the three major film adaptations (and a miniseries starring Colin Firth in the 90s).
Ashley Brookeās rendition of the eccentric and dramatic Mrs. Bennet (whoās trying to marry off all five of the daughters āyes, there are five) is hysterical. Michelle LaBozzetta was able to switch between different characters with ease, including Jane Bennet, Caroline Bingley and as Jane Austen ā which was another interesting part of the show.
While deconstructing certain scenes, the actors would recite real letters that Jane Austen wrote to her sister during her lifetime, noting how her personal life impacted the books she was writing. Not only was the play entertaining, but for people who didnāt know much about the author, you were able to get a bit of history, as well.
Andrew Murano played seven people and also did so skillfully. Each one varied ā he played a doctor, a footman, Mr. Bennet, Mr. Bingley, Sir William, Mr. Wickham, Mr. Gardiner and Colonel Fitzwilliam āand when appropriate, he played them with humor.Ā
David DiMarzo, who is new to Theatre Three, played the charming and desirable Mr. Darcy, as well as Mr. Collins, and showed us that he needs to stay. His ability to play the dreamy love interest of Lizzie, but also the snobbish Collins was impressive to say the least.Ā
And if that sounds confusing to you, it might seem that way, but the performance on stage explains it better. While all five are in 19th century costumes, they do a great job of expressing themselves through their facial expressions and body language. They certainly give it their all.Ā
The set allows the audience to use their imagination. Three sets of doors are toward the back of the stage and is utilized often to show transitions between the settings and time periods. Whatās also interesting is the use of a projector at the top of the stage that shows images of the houses they are currently in, or websites where āPride and Prejudiceā merch is on sale (itās a joke).
Some jokes might go over your head if you didnāt read the book ā so a quick read of a summary or even a refresher of the whole novel could definitely help ā but itās still enjoyable for those looking for a fun night out as this show was definitely not an easy production. Regardless of your knowledge of 19th century literature, this show is one for the books.Ā
Pride @ PrejudiceĀ is playing at Theatre Three, located at 412 Main Street in Port Jefferson, until May 6. Tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. Wednesday matinees are $20. For more information or to order, contact the box office at 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
Christopher Behmke, second from right, stars as The Scarlet Pimpernel. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Christopher Behmke stars as The Scarlet Pimpernel. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Christopher Behmke and Arianne Davidow in 'The Scarlet Pimpernel'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Nate Hackmann as Chauvelin a scene from 'The Scarlet Pimpernel'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Christopher Behmke and Nate Hackmann in a scene from 'The Scarlet Pimpernel'. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Christopher Behmke stars as The Scarlet Pimpernel. Photo from The John W. Engeman Theater
Arianne Davidow as Marguerite St. Just. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
By Julianne Mosher
The opening night performance of The Scarlet Pimpernel at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport had the entire audience ready to fight the French and head āinto the fireā with the cast from the moment the curtain opened.Ā
The swashbuckling adventure follows Percy Blakeney, a proper English gentleman, who takes on a dashing double identity as The Scarlet Pimpernel to save French citizens from the blood-thirsty guillotine. The Pimpernelās exploits soon become the talk of Paris and the fanatical Agent Chauvelin will stop at nothing to catch the Pimpernel and cut off his head.Ā
First published as a novel in a series of historical fiction by Baroness Orczy, The Scarlet Pimpernel has seen many different lives in both film and plays. Now, 118 years later, this musical version is full of color, excellent accents, a fantastical set design and an incredible ensemble that does not disappoint.
The production begins with large scarlet pimpernel flowers hanging across the stage. Throughout the play, they become part of the set used as background pieces in indoor and outdoor scenes. The actors are responsible for moving the flowers around in between set changes, as they are wheeled from the ceiling to and from the curtain. But along with the pimpernels being part of the show, each scene has a set to help tell the story.
Directed and choreographed by Paul Stancato, the ensemble features a roster of experienced, talented artists who took on a show that was definitely not your average song and dance. Half the cast, for example, had to master a British accent, while the other half had to make the audience believe they were French ā mostly sung, no less.Ā
Starring Christopher Behmke as the title character, Nate Hackmann as Chauvelin and Arianne Davidow as Marguerite St. Just, the emotion and dedication of each actor shined bright on stage. During the happier scenes, the audience felt it and during the more somber times, the audience could see the tears filling up in the starsā eyes.
The supporting cast makes the play, as well. Everyone had a special role in the show and none were forgettable. However, specific fan favorites of the night were Percyās group of friends ā equivalent to a college frat, they support and join Percy back and forth to France to take down the revolutionists. Showing the power of friendship, they also bring a lot of laughs to their scenes with their silly demeanors, and (pretty awesome) sword fighting.Ā
Each character, whether it was Marguerite or the Prince of Wales (yes, he makes an appearance, too), has a distinct look with colorful, vibrant and time period costumes that change in nearly every scene. The crew definitely dressed everyone to impress from head to toe.Ā
Terrence Mann, who played Chauvelin in the 1997 original Broadway production of the show, joined the cast on stage after the final bow.
āThis was amazing,ā he told the audience. āI havenāt seen this play since I did it. I just remember sitting in my dressing room when I wasnāt on stage and seeing it now saying to myself, āOh! Thatās what happened!ā and they did it really well.ā Mann added that while sitting in the audience, himself, he heard his neighbors gasp, yell and āyayā with almost every movement.Ā
āI think it just keeps getting better,ā he said. āThere are two things that happen in theater ā music and the story, and this is a great story with phenomenal music. It transports everybody.ā
The only thing missing from the show? More dates to see it. Youāll want to go back after the first night.
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The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents The Scarlet Pimpernel through April 30. Main stage theater continues with The Sound of Music from May 18 to July 2, and Jimmy Buffet’s Escape to Margaritaville from July 13 to Aug. 27. Tickets range from $80 to $85 with free valet parking. The Engeman also offers children’s theater and a special event series with live concerts and comedy nights. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Julianne Mosher
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Scene from the 2023 St. James' St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo by Joseph Cali
Temperatures were low but spirits were high at the St. Patrickās Day Parade in St. James on Saturday, March 11.
Residents from across both shores headed to Lake Avenue this weekend to eat, drink and be merry. The hamletās annual St. Patrickās Day Parade featured floats, the local Irish step dance team, kids from the Smithtown Bulldogs youth football league and leprechauns galore.
Kicking off the parade was Grand Marshal Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R), as he sported a bright green hat leading other elected officials, including Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone (D), right center, and State Sen. Mario Mattera (R-Saint James), below right.
While many parade participants were Smithtown-based, the event also welcomed fire departments from Northport, Stony Brook and Babylon.