Stony Brook, NY; Stony Brook University: Miguel Garcia-Diaz, Interim Vice President for Research talks with the recipient of an OVPR Seed Grant Department of Geosciences Assistant Professor Marine Frouin in her Luminescence Dating Research Laboratory. Photo by John Griffin/SBU
Proposals for preliminary work may lead to wider national funding for unique research from many academic disciplines
The Office of the Vice President of Research (OVPR) at Stony Brook University has awarded seed grants for 21 projects encompassing research from a wide range of disciplines such as biomedical engineering, pharmacology, computer science, microbiology, astronomy, and linguistics. This funding cycle from fall 2023 totals $1 million to faculty leading these projects. This is only the second time the OVPR has awarded $1 million in a single funding cycle. The first time occurred in summer 2022.
All cycles of the OVPR Seed Grant Program, including special initiative cycles, are managed by staff in the Office of Proposal Development (OPD) in OVPR. Since 2018, the OVPR has invested approximately $6.4 million in promising research by Stony Brook faculty.
The OVPR Seed Grant Program gives Stony Brook University faculty a competitive edge in securing external research funds by offering support for preliminary work that will lead to larger and more impactful research projects. A team of faculty reviewers assess project proposals from faculty to determine a proposals’ likelihood of success in acquiring extramural funding. Typical proposals include projects as proof of concept, feasibility studies, or the development of interdisciplinary collaborative research.
“Research is at the core of Stony Brook University’s identity, and the seed grant program represents an investment in our University’s future,” says Miguel Garcia-Diaz, PhD, Interim VP for Research. “It is a key engine to fuel the progress of our research enterprise and has historically resulted in a return of upwards of seven dollars in external awards for each dollar invested by the University.”
These seed grants provide faculty with the resources they need to transform their ideas into groundbreaking research. Selected by their peers, the awardees must demonstrate exceptional talent, dedication and excellence in their fields. For this cycle, 21 of 66 proposals were selected for funding, resulting in the second highest acceptance rate for proposals for a single cycle (32 percent).
The diverse set of recipients for this seed funding cycle include a chemist developing a new molecular catalyst platform to lessen the environmental impact of both commodity and specialty chemicals, a psychologist exploring how government policies are impacting the health of individuals in the sexual and gender minority, and a paleontology team assessing early dinosaurs and their kin at a Late Triassic Site in Northern New Mexico.
“The OVPR seed grant will represent a crucial milestone in my career, making a substantial contribution to the advancement of luminescence dating methods for application across various disciplines such as geoscience, archeology, paleoanthropology, and evolutionary biology, where chronological accuracy is paramount,” says Marine Frouin, PhD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Geosciences, and one of the new recipients.
She reflects other recipients’ thoughts by adding that the “internal seed program not only provides a competitive advantage but also cultivates an environment conducive to innovative scientific research.”
For a list of all 21 funded proposals, the projects, and faculty involved, see this link.
The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor has announced its third season of Beyond the Book club. After two successful seasons of this unique, thematic book club, the museum has gained a consistent member base. Even so, there is still room for more bookish folks enamored with the sea to participate. Participants will enjoy fascinating stories paired with the museum’s collection and a special matching snack.
This unique book club series has the museum education team hand selecting texts that are inspired by the sea and utilizes the museum’s collection of over 6,000 artifacts to bring club members closer to the story. Participants are invited to make connections, personal and historical, through up close interactions with relevant objects and facts from Long Island’s maritime past.
Through this tangible way of interacting with objects, book clubbers are immersed in the theme of the text and find new perspectives to understand the narrative. In addition, the museum education team pairs a special snack with the text for each session, further engaging participants.
Liz Cousins, a participant in this past fall and spring book club sessions, had this to say about Beyond the Book — “Thanks again for putting this book club together! I’m not usually a “book club” type[…] but THIS, I LOVE.” The Whaling Museum’s book club aims to gain a new audience of readers through this unique approach.
The January session will take place on Jan. 25. Book clubbers will gather to discuss The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness by Sy Montgomery followed by an examination of historical documents from the museum’s collection that reveal how 19th century whalers viewed whales and how these views have changed over time.
The February session will take place on Feb. 29 featuring Never Caught: The Washingtons’ Relentless Pursuit of Their Runaway Slave, Ona Judge by Erica Armstrong Dunbar. Enjoy an intimate look at the museum’s special exhibit From Sea to Shining Sea: Whalers of the African Diaspora and discover the surprising role the whaling industry played in carrying people to freedom.
Lastly, on March 28, book clubbers will gather to discuss Ahab’s Wife, or The Star-Gazer by Sena Jeter Naslund. Participants will inspect artifacts and writings left behind by Cold Spring Harbor whaling wives to see how closely Naslund’s fiction imitates fact.
“It has been an absolute joy to watch our book club continue to grow and to be a part of the wonderful community that has formed during these sessions.We can’t wait to share more of our collection and explore new stories with this group in the new year,” said Brenna McCormick-Thompson, Curator of Education.
Each book club meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. and is approximately 1 hour long. Coffee (compliments of Starbucks of Huntington Village), tea and cookies will be served.
Beyond the Book club sessions are free for museum members and patrons of the museum’s partner libraries, Huntington Public Library and South Huntington Public Library. All others may attend for $15 per session. Register at www.cshwhalingmuseum.org/bookclub. For more information, call 631-367-3418.
This article originally appeared in TBR News Media’s Prime Times senior supplement on 01/25/24.
Danny Bernardy, Jason SweetTooth Williams, Gina Naomi Baez and Lauren Weinberg in a scene from 'I Love You. You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
(Top) Danny Bernardy, Lauren Weinberg, (Bottom) Jason SweetTooth Williams, Gina Naomi Baez in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Gina Naomi Baez, Jason SweetTooth Williams, Danny Bernardy and Lauren Weinberg in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Gina Naomi Baez in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Lauren Weinberg and Matt DaSilva in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Matt DaSilva and Gina Naomi Baez in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Jason SweetTooth Williams and Lauren Weinberg in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Gina Naomi Baez and Danny Bernardy in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Danny Bernardy in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Gina Naomi Baez and Danny Bernardy in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
Jason SweetTooth Williams and Danny Bernardy in a scene from 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change'. Photo courtesy of The John W. Engeman Theater
The most relatable comedy you will ever see
By Julianne Mosher
The John W. Engeman Theater’s latest produce is perfect… and it should definitely not change.
During Saturday, Jan. 20’s performance of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, the Northport-based theater was full of nonstop laughs thanks to the four-piece ensemble on stage.
Starring Gina Naomi Baez and Lauren Weinberg as the two main women and Danny Bernardy and Jason SweetTooth Williams as the two men, this witty musical tackles modern love in all forms in separate vignettes per scene.
Originally premiering off-Broadway in 1996, the show ran for 12 years, making it off-Broadway’s second longest running show. It has since premiered in a dozen countries and has been translated all over the world.
Directed and choreographed by John Simpkins, the show starts off with the four playing your general everyday people looking for love. The unnamed people sing about the hopes and dreams of their upcoming date that they each get dressed and ready for, “Cantana For a First Date.” Immediately after, we see Baez and Bernardy chat it up after meeting in person for the first time after an online dating match.
The relatability of these songs and scenes is painful — in a good way. For those in long-term relationships, you’ll cringe being reminded what it was like on the dating scene. For those still single, you’ll nod along in agreement to everything they complain about.
Matt DaSilva, who was Williams’ understudy during Saturday night’s performance, was stellar in his scenes, notably the third song about two awkward people on their first date. The fact that each actor was able to change characters per scene with ease was impressive — each having their own story to tell.
Other standout songs and performances came from “Men Who Talk and the Women Who Pretend They’re Listening,” “The Lasagna Incident,” (with a beautiful ballad sung by Weinberg that shows off her phenomenal range), and “And Now the Parents.” You can guess what each of those songs are about and how they relate to dating.
But the musical isn’t only about looking for love. They capture the wedding day, a typical night for a married couple, childbearing and even death, too.
One number, that was sweet and funny, was “Funerals Are For Dating,” featuring Baez and Bernardy who hysterically played two old timers meeting at an acquaintance’s funeral. Bernardy tries to pick the mourning woman up and laughter ensues. However, it will leave you smiling because for such a funny moment mixed with sadness (talking about their deceased partners), you’ll smile at the sweet sentiment the end of the number provides.
However, it’s not entirely sweet. This show is definitely not recommended for someone who might be a prude. Other topics tackled are unhappy sex lives and why men send women pictures of their penis. Adult language and content are prevalent.
With a beautifully designed set, you will surely be impressed the moment you sit down. A setting described as “a city near you,” the backdrop includes impressive buildings with windows to apartments, and throughout the stage, different living rooms and bedrooms are set up for the appropriate skits.
From the looks of the rooms to the costumes and experiences, this show is going to make you say, “too true” in relation to your life. I can guarantee at least one of the scenes will relate to you and your partner in any stage of your relationship.
Tip? Bring someone on a first date! Remind them what they’re in for…
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport will present I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change through March 3. Tickets are $80 for Wednesday and Sunday evenings; $85 for Thursdays; $90 for Friday evenings, Saturday and Sunday matinees; and $95 for Saturday evenings. Tickets may be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, going online at www.engemantheater.com, or visiting the Engeman Theater Box Office at 250 Main Street, Northport.
Many of our clients have been inquiring about how traffic summons is being handled in Suffolk County, in particular, speeding tickets; the answers to these questions, depending on where in the county the ticket was received, tickets being prosecuted in the village in town, courts across Long Island may not be handled in the same way as those received elsewhere.
How is a speeding ticket handled if received in one of the five western towns of Suffolk County, Long Island?
For example, suppose you receive a ticket for speeding in the five western towns, Huntington, Smithtown Babylon Islip in Brookhaven, and not in an incorporated village, such as Head of the Harbor, Port Jefferson, Nissequogue, Islandia, and others. In that case, your case will be prosecuted in the central traffic court on Veterans Memorial Highway in Hauppauge in the H Lee Dennison building. The Suffolk County traffic and parking violations agency works in many ways, like the Department of Motor Vehicles.
How is the speeding ticket handled if received in an incorporated village or one of the eastern towns on Long Island?
Suppose you receive a speeding ticket in an incorporated village or one of the towns on the east end of Suffolk County, such as Riverhead, Southampton, East Hampton, or Southold. Your case will be prosecuted in the local court in that village or town.
Each of these courts has its own rules concerning personal appearances; however, since the district attorney’s office in Suffolk County prosecutes speeding tickets and other moving violations, the same rules governing what dispositions of your ticket are possible in the traffic court in Hauppauge might not prevail. Specific plea-bargaining guidelines bind the prosecutors in the traffic court, while the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office has its flexible guidelines.
Take-Away
It is important that your attorney is fully aware of the different prosecutorial guidelines that are in place in the particular court where your speeding ticket is pending. Many law-abiding individuals tend to plead guilty instinctively, especially if it’s their first ticket. However, pleading guilty can result in a heavy fine, a possible increase in your car insurance rates, and as many as 6 to 11 points on your driving license.
Shannon L. Malone, Esq. is an Associate Attorney at Glynn Mercep Purcell and Morrison LLP in Setauket. She graduated from Touro Law, where she wrote and served as an editor of the Touro Law Review. Ms. Malone is a proud Stony Brook University alumna.
A scene from 'The Wizard of Oz." Photo courtesy of Fathom Events
Fathom Events’ Big Screen Classics 2024 kicks off with the beloved 1939 fantasy The Wizard of Oz returning to select theaters nationwide in honor of its 85th anniversary on Jan. 28, 29, and 31.
In this classic musical fantasy, Judy Garland stars as Dorothy Gale, a young Kansas farm girl who dreams of a land “somewhere over the rainbow.” Dorothy’s dream comes true when she, her dog Toto, and her family’s house are transported by a tornado to a bright and magical world unlike anything she has seen before. Unfortunately, she makes a mortal enemy of theWicked Witch of the West when the house falls on her sister. Now, befriended by a scarecrow without a brain, a tin man with no heart and a cowardly lion, and protected by a pair of enchanted ruby slipper, Dorothy sets off along a yellow brick road for the Emerald City to beseech the all-powerful Wizard of Oz for his help to return home.
The Wizard of Oz received five Academy Award® nominations, including Best Picture (Outstanding Production), and captured two Oscars®—Best Song (“Over the Rainbow”) and Best Original Score — plus a special award for Outstanding Juvenile Performance by Judy Garland.
Each screening includes an exclusive introduction by acclaimed film critic and historian Leonard Maltin, shedding light on the groundbreaking film’s incredible legacy and lasting impact—both on cinema and pop culture.
Locally the film will be screened at AMC Stony Brook 17, Island 16 Cinema de Lux in Holtsville, Showcase Cinema de Lux in Farmingdale and Regal UA Farmingdale. For tickets, visit www.fathomevents.com.
AN EVENING OF STORYTELLING
Northport Symphony Orchestra presents a winter concert at the Northport High School on Feb. 26. Photo courtesy of NSO
Thursday January 25
Library Book Sale
Center Moriches Free Public Library, 235 Main St., Center Moriches will hold an Antique, Vintage, and Premium Book Sale sponsored by the Friends of the Library today from 2 to 8 p.m., Jan. 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Jan. 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All proceeds benefit Library. 631-438-6972
Beyond the Book Club
Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor continues its Beyond the Book Club series with The Soul of the Octopus at 6:30 p.m. Can an animal — not to mention an invertebrate — possess intelligence? Consciousness? A soul? These are some of the questions author Sy Montgomery tackles in her emotional and enlightening portrait of one of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures — the octopus. Explore historical documents from the museum’s collection that reveal how 19th century whalers viewed whales and discover how these views have changed over time. $15 per participant. To register, visit www.cshwhalingmuseum.org.
Native American Drumming
All Souls Parish House, 10 Mill Pond Road, Stony Brook will host an evening of Native American Drumming Meditation from 7 to 8:45 p.m. Led by elder drummer, Ric Statler, drumming meditation seeks to integrate the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual parts of the human self, creating a state of well-being. Call 631-655-7798 for more information.
Friday January 26
Coffee House concert
Celebrate St. James continues its Coffee House series at the St. James Calderone Theatre, 176 Second St., St. James with John Zollo featuring the songs of Tony Bennett at 7 p.m. with special coffee beverages, tea and sweet treats. Tickets are $25, $20 members. For tickets, visit www.celebratestjames.org. 631-984-0201
American Heritage Night
Kings Park Heritage Museum, RJO Intermediate School auditorium, 101 Church St., Kings park presents American Heritage Night at 7 p.m. Featuring the Big Band sounds of The Gold Coast Jazz Band with a guest performance by Robert Levey II. Free admission. 631-269-3305, www.kpheritagemuseum.net
Symphony Orchestra concert
The Northport Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Eric Mahl, will present a classical music concert titled Storytelling at Northport High School, 154 Laurel Hill Road, Northport at 8 p.m. The concert will feature “Scheherazade” by Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov and “Magnolias” by Robert Nathaniel Dett. Tickets are $15.www.northportsymphony.org.
Friday Night Face-Off
Friday Night Face Off, Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, returns to Theatre Three’s Second Stage, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight at 10:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for ages 16 and up, due to adult content. Tickets are $15 at the door – cash only. 631-928-9100
Saturday January 27
Port Jefferson Ice Festival
Port Jefferson Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce presents the 5th annual Port Jefferson Ice Festival today and Jan. 28 from noon to 5 p.m. Enjoy ice sculptures throughout the village along with live music, dance performances, ice skating demos, live ice carvings by Rich Daly, character photo opportunities, horse-drawn wagon rides and more. Rain dates are Feb. 3 and 4. 631-473-1414
Rock N Raptors fundraiser
Sweetbriar Nature Center will hold a Rock N Raptors fundraiser at the Bates House, 1 Bates Road, Setauket from 2 to 6 p.m. with live music, raptor presentations, raffles, games, food and more. Musical guests include 45 RPM, Screamer of the Week (Classic New Wave)and an acoustic duet with George Tebbitt and Mike Green of Beyond Fab. Tickets are $25 per person, children under 12 free. To order, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344
Ceramics fundraiser
Join the Art League of Long Island for a Ceramics Department Fundraiser at Vanderbilt Elementary School, 350 Deer Park Ave., Dix Hills at 5 p.m. Titled Made with Mud, Kissed by Fire, the event will feature raffles, an auction, and hors-doeuvres for you to enjoy while helping the Art League enhance and maintain the facilities and equipment in their ceramic studios. $55 admission fee includes a small bowl to go home with. Register at www.artleagueli.org. 631-462-5400
Sunday January 28
Port Jefferson Ice Festival
See Jan 27 listing.
Le Petit Salon concert
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 380 Nicolls Road, E. Setauket hosts a Le Petit Salon de Musique classical concert featuring soprano Rachel Schutz and pianist Andrea Christie at 2 p.m. Titled Silence the program will include works by Morfydd Owen, Grace Williams, Margaret Bonds, Thomas Osborne and Sergei Rachmaninov. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 students $10 ages 12 and under at the door. To purchase in advance, visit www.lepetitsalon.org. 631-751-0297
Ken McGorry in concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook will host a concert by Ken McGorry and the Achievements from 3 to 4 p.m. The event is free with general admission ticket purchase. For more information, call 689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org.
Monday January 29
No events listed for this day.
Tuesday January 30
NSJC Social Club event
North Shore Jewish Center Social Club, 385 Old Town Road, Port Jefferson Station invites the community to a concert by the barbershop quartet“Once Upon a Time”—100 years of combined singing experience, entertaining audiences all around Long Island — in the Social Hall at 11 a.m. Bagels, cream cheese and coffee will be served. $5 per person, $4 members. 631-928-3737
Wednesday January 31
No events listed for this day.
Thursday February 1
Unsung Heroes program
Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station kicks off Black History month with a program titled Unsung Heroes: Segregated Military Units from 7 to 8 p.m. Learn about history of the African American units that bravely served their country in the face of discrimination. Open to all. Call 631-928-1212 or visit www.cplib.org to register.
An Evening of Jazz
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents a concert featuring The Jazz Loft Big Band, a 7-piece big band directed by Jazz Loft Director Tom Manuel, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children and children under 5 years old are free. To order tickets, visit www.thejazzloft.org.
Film
‘Joke Man’
Join the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook for a special screening of Jackie Martling’s Joke Man on Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. Famous for being the head writer of the Howard Stern show for 15 years and infamous for leaving that position, Martling’s life story is fascinating, funny, and heartwarming. Joke Man is a universal story of self-discovery and the how humor is one of the keys to happiness. Followed by a Q&A with Jacki Martling. Tickets are $35 per person and includes admission to the Hall of Fame museum. For more information, call 689-5888 or visit www.limusichalloffame.org.
‘I Remember Mama’
Celebrate St. James continues its Classic Movie Series with a screening of I Remember Mama at the St. James Calderone Theatre, 176 Second St., St. James on Jan. 28 at 1 p.m. The 1948 film follows a young writer recalls her ups and downs of growing up as one of four children to Norwegian immigrant parents in 1910s San Francisco. Tickets are $25, $20 seniors. To register, call 631-984-0201 or visit www.celebratestjames.org.
‘Toxic Beauty’
Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington and Green Inside and Out present a special screening of Toxic Beauty on Jan. 28 at 2:30 p.m. The documentary reveals the truth about harmful health consequences of chemicals found in everyday beauty products, the huge corporations that knowingly use them and the lack of governmental regulations to protect consumers and follows the class action lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson and the plaintiffs. Preceded by a panel discussion regarding the Toxic Free Cosmetics Act. Tickets are $16, $10 members at www.cinemaartscentre.org. 631-423-7610
Theater
UP FOR A GAME OF CARDS? Catch a performance of ‘The Gin Game’ at Theatre Three. The show runs through Feb. 3. Photo courtesy of Theatre Three
‘The Gin Game’
Theatre Three, 412 Main Street, Port Jefferson presents D.L. Colburn’s The Gin Game from Jan. 13 to Feb. 3. A fierce battle of wits and wills is revealed as a mismatched pair in a retirement facility inadvertently reveal their hearts as they show their hands in increasingly combative rounds of gin rummy. Poignant, powerful, and heartbreakingly honest, The Gin Game shows that secrets held close to the vest are not safe from being put on the table. The production stars Theatre Three veterans Bradlee and Marci Bing. Tickets are $40 adults, $32 seniors and students. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘I Love You, You’re Perfect …’
John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St. Northport presents I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, a witty musical revue that tackles modern love in all its forms: from the perils and pitfalls of the first date to marriage, children, and the twilight years of life, from Jan. 18 to March 3. Set in the modern world and told in a series of vignettes and songs, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change traces the overall arc of relationships throughout the course of a life. To order tickets, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B13.
‘(Mostly) True Things’
The Performing Arts Studio, 224 East Main Street, Port Jefferson presents a production of (Mostly) True Things on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. with stories on the theme Sucker For Love about those times we go to extremes, abandon reason and take big leaps because of love. Four storytellers will compete to win the audience’s choice for the biggest “sucker for love.” Also 3 of the stories will include subtle little lies, but all the stories are otherwise true. The audience gets to question the storytellers, then vote for the person they think told it straight. Tickets are $20 online at eventbrite.com, $25 at the door (cash only).
Farmers Markets
Huntington Farmers Market
Spirit of Huntington Art Center, 2 Melville Road North, Huntington Station hosts the Long Island Winter Farmers Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March. 631-470-9620
Port Jefferson Farmers Market
The Port Jefferson Winter Farmers Market returns to the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 28. 631-802-2160
Class Reunions
•Centereach High School Class of 1974 will hold its 50th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on April 26 from 6 to 10 p.m. For more information, email Jean Ann Renzulli at [email protected].
•Port Jefferson High School Class of 1964 will hold its 60th reunion at the Meadow Club, 1147 Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Oct. 17. For more information, email Mike Whelen at [email protected]
Tickets are going fast for 'Frozen Jr.' at the John W. Engeman Theater. The show opens Jan. 27.
PROGRAMS
First Steps in Nature
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown will host a First Steps into Nature program titled Discover Your Senses: Camouflage, Sounds, Textures, & 5 Senses on Jan. 26 at 9:30 a.m. Children ages 2 to 4 will learn about nature through hands on activities, music, crafts, stories and gain a greater appreciation of nature and wildlife while having fun. $20 per class. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. 631-979-6344
Growing Up Wild
Town of Brookhaven continues its nature programs series at the Cedar Beach Nature Center, 244 Harbor Beach Road, Mt. Sinai with Growing Up Wild on Jan. 27 at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. Children ages 3 to 6 with a parent or caregiver will enjoy learning about nature through story time and a related craft or activity. Free but registration required by emailing [email protected].
Story & Craft with Nana Carol
The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Avenue Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on Jan. 29 at 10:30 a.m. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4 (sometimes older siblings join as well). 631-482-5008
Erupting Volcanoes
Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a Tiny Tots program titled Erupting Volcanos on Feb. 1 from 10 :30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 with a parent or caregiver will enjoy short walks, story time, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. To register, call 631-269-4333.
Night at the Museum
Explore, learn, and lay after hours at the Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson during its Night at the Museum event on Feb. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. Children in grades 2 to 5 will enjoy pizza, play at the museum after-hours and participate in a fun STEM-themed activity. $40 per child. To register, visit www.longislandexplorium.org. 631-331-3277
THEATER
‘Frozen Jr.’
Frozen Jr. returns to the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport on weekends from Jan. 27 to March 3. When faced with danger, princesses Anna and Elsa discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. This enchanting musical features all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film including “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” “For the First Time in Forever” and “Let It Go.” All seats are $20. To order, call 631-261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Jack and the Beanstalk’
Children’s theater continues at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson with Jack and the Beanstalk — or The Boy Who Cried “Giant!” from Jan. 20 to Feb. 3. A handful of magic beans starts our hero and his best friend, Filpail the Cow, on one of the best-remembered adventures. Come explore the Castle in the Sky with Jack as he learns the importance of truth-telling in a hilarious original musical for the entire family. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
FILM
‘The Wizard of Oz’
Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema for Kids! series with a screening of The Wizard of Oz on Jan. 28 at noon. In this classic musical fantasy, a young Kansas farm girl dreams of a land “somewhere over the rainbow.” Dorothy’s dream comes true when she, her dog, Toto, and her family’s house are transported by a tornado to a bright and magical world unlike anything she has seen before. Tickets are $13 adults, $5 children 12 and under. www.cinemaartscentre.org.
DANCE
‘Swan Lake Act II’
Ballet Long Island, 1863 Pond Road, Ronkonkoma will present a performance of Swan Lake Act II on Feb 7 at 11 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. and Feb. 10 at 1 p.m. Dazzling white and beautiful best describe the second act of the most classical of all classical ballets: Swan Lake, choreographed to Tchaikovsky’s brilliant music. Tickets are $20 adult, $10 senior citizen, $10 children. To order, call 631-737-1984or visit www.balletlongisland.com
The cast of 'Jack and the Beanstalk' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Jack and the Beanstalk.' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Jack and the Beanstalk.' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Jack and the Beanstalk.' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Jack and the Beanstalk.' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Jack and the Beanstalk.' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Jack and the Beanstalk.' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Jack and the Beanstalk.' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
A scene from 'Jack and the Beanstalk.' Photo by Steven Uihlein/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
By Heidi Sutton
The temperature outside was a bone-chilling 22 degrees as I drove into Theatre Three’s parking lot in Port Jefferson last Sunday morning. Once inside, however, the atmosphere was warm and inviting as families with young children settled in their seats to watch a most excellent performance of Jack and the Beanstalk or The Boy Who Cried Giant!
Written by Jeffrey Hoffman, Douglas J. Quattrock and Jeffrey Sanzel the original musical combines the well known fairytale with the classic fable The Boy Who Cried Wolf and tells the story of a nice boy named Jack (played by Sean Amato) who lives in a small village with his mother (Josie McSwane) and his best friend in the entire world, Filpail the Cow (Julia Albino).
But Jack has a problem — he tends to exaggerate and has told so many tall tales (“I can even wash a cat!,” “My cow can speak in seven different languages!”) that no one believes him anymore. “Someday your stories are going to get you in trouble,” his mother warns. Jack also receives a visit from the Fairy Mary Goodwing (Cassidy Rose O’Brien) who tries to convince him to “always tell the truth and you will be true to yourself.”
One day his mother tells him that they have no other choice than to sell Filpail to Butcher Blackstone (Ryan Worrell). On the way to the market, Jack and his cow meet two pirate gypsies, Marco and Margot (Liam Marsigliano and Kaitlyn Jehle), who claim they want to buy Filpail for “cowpanionship” (they really want to sell her to Butcher Blackstone) and trick Jack into trading her for some magic beans.
Jack’s mother is furious when she finds out what happened and throws the beans away. A giant beanstalk suddenly appears, signaling the start of a wonderful adventure.
In Act Two, Jack climbs the beanstalk and discovers a castle in the sky occupied by a cranky (and whiny!) giant (Ryan Worrell), the giant’s wife (Gina Lardi), a golden harp (Liam Marsigliano) and a hen that lays golden eggs (Kaitlyn Jehle).
When Jack returns home and tells his mother and the villagers what he has seen no one believes him. He decides to return to the giant’s castle with Filpail to bring something back as evidence. The giant’s wife gives Jack a pair of her husband’s enormous pants. But as they are about to leave, the giant gets a whiff of the boy and his cow (“Fee Fi Fo Fum!”). Will they escape in time?
Under the direction of Steven Uihlein, a talented cast of eight adult actors play multiple roles during this action adventure. The songs, accompanied on piano by Douglas J. Quattrock, are catchy and fun and there’s even a tap dance number choreographed by Sari Feldman.
Costume designer Jason Allyn deserves “giant” accolades for the beautiful outfits and props, including a three-foot-long sneaker and a beanstalk that magically grows all the way to the ceiling.
With the important message that one should always tell the truth, Jack and the Beanstalk will warm your heart. Don’t miss this one. Meet the cast in the lobby after the show for photos.
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Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson presents Jack and the Beanstalk through Feb. 3. Children’s theater continues with Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz from Feb. 21 to March 16; The Adventures of Peter Rabbit from April 13 to 27; and a brand new show, The Mystery of the Missing Ever After, from May 25 to June 15. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
Smithtown Township Arts Council announced in a press release that the works of Smithtown artist Kusuma Bheemineni will be on view at Apple Bank of Smithtown, 91 Route 111, Smithtown from Jan. 26 to March 22. The exhibition, part of the Arts Council’s Outreach Gallery Program, may be viewed during regular banking hours Monday – Thursday 9 am – 4 pm; Friday 9 am – 6 pm; Saturday 9 am – 1 pm.
Smithtown resident Kusuma Bheemineni has had a passion for sketching and painting since childhood. She began painting in oils at the age of 16, then added watercolor to her list of accomplished mediums.
Bheemineni had to put her love for painting on hold to pursue a career in the medical field as a physician. Many years later she is happy to have the time to return to her long-time passion which brings her so much joy!
“STAC is grateful to Apple Bank for its continued support of culture in our communities. We are so happy to feature the talents of Long Island artists in this space!” read the press release.
Smithtown Township Arts Council is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization.
Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for a Victorian Valentine’s Day on Thursday, Feb. 8 at 7 p.m. Make your date night, Gal-entine’s, or early Valentine’s Day celebration unforgettable! Education Coordinator Carol Taylor takes you on a journey from the beginning of Valentine’s Day to modern times while learning (and sampling) wine paired with handcrafted chocolates. Your evening concludes with a gift provided by Nite Owl Promotions. Tickets are $60, $50 members and must be purchased in advance at www.northporthistorical.org. Ages 21+ only. Questions? Call 631-757-9859.
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