Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino has a vision for growing Cataract City’s tourism, while keeping visitors in town longer.
Creating a $150 million “gateway” park downtown that includes an ice rink, indoor arena and outdoor amphitheater.
Fat Ham, the deliciously funny, Pulitzer Prize-winning new play, comes to Broadway Spring 2023
The Public Theater (Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director; Patrick Willingham, Executive Director) and National Black Theatre’s (Sade Lythcott, CEO; Jonathan McCrory, Executive Artistic Director) critically acclaimed co-production of the 2022 Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy Fat Ham by James Ijames* will make its Broadway premiere in 2023.
The Public’s Associate Artistic Director and Resident Director Saheem Ali* returns to direct the complete original Off-Broadway cast, including Nikki Crawford* as “Tedra,” Chris Herbie Holland* as “Tio,” Billy Eugene Jones as “Rev” and “Pap,” Adrianna Mitchell* as “Opal,” Calvin Leon Smith* as “Larry,” Marcel Spears* as “Juicy,” and Benja Kay Thomas as “Rabby.”
Fat Ham on Broadway will be produced by Rashad V. Chambers, No Guarantees and Public Theater Productions. Andy Jones and Dylan Pager will serve as Executive Producers.
Fat Ham, the deliciously funny, Pulitzer Prize-winning new play, comes to Broadway Spring 2023
“Every once in a while, we experience a play that is embraced by the audience with an almost shocking joy. When that happens, when the audience greets the production with a hunger that demonstrates the show is exactly what they need and want, the theater explodes. It’s the most exciting experience available to us theater-makers. Such a play, such a production, is Fat Ham. James explores the deepest of issues with the lightest of touches, looking for a way to break cycles of violence and retribution and to find a hard-won joy. And Saheem has created a production that unleashed the pain and the joy of our age,” notes Rashad V. Chambers, No Guarantees, Public Theater Productions and National Black Theatre.
Fat Ham begins performances on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, and officially opens on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at the American Airlines Theatre (227 West 42nd Street) on Broadway for a strictly limited 14-week engagement through Sunday, August 6, 2023.
Roundabout Theatre Company, which operates the American Airlines Theatre, is not the producer of Fat Ham. Roundabout will offer the show to subscribers as part of its 2022-23 season.
Fat Ham by James Ijames was commissioned by and received its world premiere as a filmed production at The Wilma Theater, Philadelphia; Ijames’ play went on to win the 2022 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It made its New York premiere in a critically acclaimed sold-out run—May 12-July 31, 2022, including a six-week extension—at The Public Theater, co-produced with the National Black Theatre, and hailed by The New York Times in its Critic’s Pick review as an “outstanding transformation of Shakespeare’s tragedy into a play about Black masculinity and queerness that both echoes Hamletand finds a language beyond it.” The Broadway transfer of Fat Ham represents National Black Theatre’s first production on Broadway, and only the third play to be transferred by a Black theatre in Broadway’s century-long history.
Fat Ham, the deliciously funny, Pulitzer Prize-winning new play, comes to Broadway following a critically acclaimed, sold-out run at The Public Theater. Playwright James Ijames and Director Saheem Ali reinvent Shakespeare’s masterpiece, creating what The New York Times calls “a hilarious yet profound tragedy smothered in comedy.”
Juicy (Spears) is a queer, Southern college kid, already grappling with some serious questions of identity, when the ghost of his father shows up in their backyard, demanding that Juicy avenge his murder. But here’s the rub! Revenge doesn’t come easy to Juicy, a sensitive and self-aware young Black man in search of his own happiness and liberation. From an uproarious family cookout emerges a compelling examination of love and loss, pain and joy.
Tickets for Fat Ham are now available for The Public Theater Partners & Supporters,National Black Theatre and Wilma Theater subscribers.
Tickets will go on sale for American Express® Card Members on Wednesday, December 7 at 10AM (ET) by visiting FatHamBroadway.com.
Tickets ($69-$179) will go on sale to the general public beginning Monday, December 12 at 10AM (ET), and will be available at FatHamBroadway.com.
Big Papi’s New York Debut: David Ortiz’s Dominican Ozama Rum Lands in Manhattan With Bold Flavor and Cultural Swagger
In a city that appreciates craftsmanship, culture, and a killer cocktail, there’s a new player on the scene ready to disrupt bar menus from Brooklyn rooftops to Central Park South. Hall-of-Fame legend David “Big Papi” Ortiz—yes, that David Ortiz—is officially entering the world of fine spirits with the launch of Ozama Rum, a 100% Dominican-made, ultra-premium rum that’s already turning heads in the five boroughs.
Far more than just a celebrity vanity label, Ozama Rum is a deeply personal project rooted in Ortiz’s Dominican heritage, shaped by tradition, and tailored for modern palates. Named after the Ozama River in Santo Domingo, the spirit is crafted from start to finish in the Dominican Republic, earning the prestigious Ron Dominicano designation that certifies its authenticity.
“To me, Ozama isn’t just about rum, it’s about identity, pride, and progress,” said Ortiz. “I wanted to build something that celebrates the energy and soul of my people and shows the world what we’re made of. It’s always been important for me to do things the right way, which is why this labor of love has been one of the most rewarding projects of my career. I can’t wait for people to try it! They say that perfection doesn’t exist, but you can get close to it.”
Ozama Rum: Where Craft Meets Culture in a Bottle
Available in three expressions, Ozama Rum brings a polished Dominican sensibility to Manhattan’s world-class cocktail scene—whether you’re sipping at Bemelmans, lounging at Soho House, or unwinding in a Brooklyn brownstone. Each expression is aged for at least a year in oak barrels and bottled on the island, delivering a terroir-driven taste of the Caribbean with unmistakable sophistication.
Ozama Blanco: Bright, citrus-forward, and kissed with white pepper, this platinum-hued rum is clean yet complex. Ideal for refreshing cocktails in Greenwich Village patios or summer spritzes on the rooftop at Le Bain.
Ozama Añejo: Smooth and refined, this copper-colored beauty delivers layers of vanilla, toffee, and a subtle note of chocolate—perfect for pairing with dessert at Eleven Madison Park or sipping solo in a Chelsea loft.
Ozama Gran Añejo: Rich and elegant, with aromas of honey, dates, candied fruits, and fine wood. This is a sipping rum made for slow conversations in the Upper East Side, where the bottle becomes the centerpiece.
Price points are as approachable as the flavor profiles—ranging from $25 to $40 for 700ml—making Ozama accessible luxury in every sense.
A New Spirit for a City of Tastemakers
New York is no stranger to premium spirits. But Ozama enters the market at a moment when consumer interest in rum is booming. According to Global View Research, the global rum market was valued at $11.77 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow 5.6% annually through 2030. That growth is driven by a shift toward artisanal, culturally rooted spirits—just the kind of origin story Manhattan drinkers crave.
And Ortiz isn’t just lending his name. The former MLB star partnered closely with a team of Dominican artisans and Abbott Wolfe, CEO of Drink2Success, to bring this vision to life.
“From day one, David had a clear vision to create an ultra-premium rum that feels authentic, vibrant, and undeniably Dominican—it was important to him to spotlight the Dominican Republic and at the same time give back to the community that raised him,” said Wolfe.
Giving Back, the Dominican Way
Ozama Rum’s purpose doesn’t stop at the bottle. Two percent of the brand’s profits will go toward cleaning up the Ozama River and supporting underserved communities along its banks. It’s a gesture that feels at home in a city that values global citizenship and local impact.
Where to Find Ozama in New York City
Available now online at drinkozama.com, Ozama is rolling out this summer at select retailers, bars, and restaurants across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Early interest from high-end mixologists in Tribeca, Williamsburg, and the Upper West Side suggests Ozama will quickly find a place among New York’s finest pours.
Whether it’s mixed into a refined mojito at Dante, poured neat at Maison Premiere, or offered as a pairing in the city’s growing number of Afro-Caribbean culinary spots, Ozama is a rum built for New York sophistication—with a heartbeat from the Dominican Republic.
Final Pour: The Big Apple Meets Big Papi
In a town where everything is fast, curated, and fueled by narrative, Ozama Rum offers something deeper—a bottle with a backstory, a cultural anchor, and the kind of authenticity that New Yorkers respect.
As Ortiz says, “They say that perfection doesn’t exist, but you can get close to it.”
And here in Manhattan, close to perfect is more than enough reason to raise your glass.
Taraji P. Henson Brings Her Moscato for with Manhattan NYC Magic to the High Seas with Princess Cruises
Broadway lights, Harlem hustle, and now—Taraji P. Henson’s Moscato on the open ocean.
The Emmy-nominated, Oscar-nodded powerhouse and entrepreneur has teamed up with Princess Cruises to bring her celebrated Seven Daughters Moscato to the brand’s exclusive Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection. And while Taraji’s roots are D.C. born, New Yorkers know she’s always brought a Manhattan-level boldness to everything she touches—whether it’s a red carpet or a wine glass.
“Seven Daughters is more than just a bottle of wine; it’s a celebration in a glass,” Henson shared. “Our Moscato is inviting, refreshing, and perfect for moments of connection which is what makes this partnership with Princess Cruises so amazing. Now we can experience this feeling with people from around the world, whether they’re toasting under the stars or relaxing on the open sea.”
That connection is something every New Yorker craves—especially when escaping the city’s breakneck pace for a well-earned recharge. With Princess Cruises offering sailings from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, it’s never been easier to trade the city skyline for an ocean horizon—glass of Henson’s Moscato in hand.
Featuring notes of tropical fruit and honeysuckle, Seven Daughters offers the kind of bright, celebratory flavor that fits perfectly between a jazz brunch in the West Village and a rooftop toast in Midtown. Now, thanks to Princess Cruises, it’s also a go-to at sea.
“Princess Cruises is committed to curating distinctive, high-quality experiences for our guests, and Seven Daughters aligns seamlessly with that vision,” said Sami Kohen, Vice President of Food and Beverage at Princess Cruises. “Taraji’s Moscato reflects a bold yet approachable style that we know our guests will love.”
Henson’s wine joins an all-star lineup of bottles in the Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection, which includes Jason Momoa and Blaine Halvorson’s Meili Vodka, Camila and Matthew McConaughey’s Pantalones Organic Tequila, Blake Lively’s Betty Booze and Betty Buzz, Liev Schreiber’s Sláinte Irish Whiskey, Jason Aldean’s Melarosa wines, Romero Britto’s Love Prosecco, and Kylie Minogue’s No Alcohol Sparkling Rosé.
But Henson’s addition feels especially New York in spirit—sophisticated, stylish, and full of character. For city dwellers looking to trade the subway for a stateroom, Seven Daughters is an invitation to unwind without leaving the energy behind.
As Strategic Advisor and Creative Collaborator, Henson has helped shape every aspect of the wine’s personality, much like she’s done with her most iconic roles. And just like New York, this Moscato is lively, expressive, and impossible to ignore.
Whether you’re a downtown art dealer, an Upper East Side socialite, or a Brooklyn creative looking to unplug, a Princess cruise with a glass of Taraji’s Moscato might be just the blend of luxury and leisure you didn’t know you needed.
So the next time you’re booking a departure from NYC, remember: this isn’t just another cruise. It’s a chance to sip something special—with a side of Taraji—and toast to life beyond the grid.
Find out more about the Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection and upcoming sailings at www.princess.com.
WWE and Seagrams Just Dropped Boozy, Slam-Worthy Drinks—And Manhattan Is the First Stop
NEW YORK, NY — In a city where everything moves faster, hits harder, and parties louder, WWE is making its boldest off-the-top-rope move yet—launching its first-ever ready-to-drink alcoholic beverage right here in the heart of Manhattan.
WWE and Seagram’s Escapes Spiked just announced a multi-year partnership that’s as wild as a Hell in a Cell match in Madison Square Garden. The result? A brand-new, wrestling-themed lineup of flavored malt beverages, designed for fans who live big and drink bold.
And New York, you’re first in line. From East Village rooftops to uptown bodegas, the Seagram’s Escapes Spiked WWE Series is already popping up across the five boroughs—just in time to raise a can and body slam the summer heat.
This isn’t just a licensing deal. It’s a cultural collision between two icons—WWE, the global entertainment empire born in gritty arenas, and Seagram’s, a brand rooted in fun, flavor, and that “no apologies” energy New Yorkers know best.
“Seagram’s has a rich history of innovation and a deep commitment to authenticity, making it the ideal partner to go to market with our first-ever licensed ready-to-drink product,” said Grant Norris-Jones, EVP and Head of Global Partnerships at TKO Group Holdings, WWE’s parent company. “And let’s be honest—there’s no better place to launch than NYC.”
The new Spiked series isn’t here to sip quietly—it’s here to stand on tables in the Meatpacking District and shout “Let’s get ready to rumble!” at rush hour. The three debut flavors bring serious personality:
Rumble Punch™ – A remix of the fan-favorite Jamaican Me Happy, this tropical knockout blends strawberry, watermelon, lemon, and guava. Perfect for rooftop hangs in SoHo or post-work drinks on the Hudson.
Pineapple Powerhouse™ – With bold pineapple, cherry, and lime, this can packs all the energy of a 2 a.m. dance floor in Hell’s Kitchen.
Slammin’ Blueberry™ – A clean one-two punch of blueberry and lemon, tailor-made for chill park days at Bryant Park or Union Square pre-games.
All three flavors are now stocked across Manhattan—from your corner deli on Lexington to upscale liquor boutiques in the West Village.
This isn’t just about what’s in the can. As an Official Partner of WWE, Seagram’s Escapes Spiked will be front and center at major WWE events—Money in the Bank®, SummerSlam®, and Survivor Series®—and heavily featured in exclusive digital content starring your favorite Superstars.
But NYC gets something even better: in-person appearances from WWE Superstars at select retailers across the city. Think autograph signings, selfie ops, and unexpected encounters with wrestling royalty at your go-to wine shop in the East 60s or downtown bodega.
“Our collaboration with WWE marks an exciting moment for Seagram’s Spiked as we connect with WWE’s global—and very NYC-centric—fanbase,” said Jaime Polisoto, brand director for Seagram’s Escapes. “Our sales team is amped to bring Superstars directly into the city to meet fans where they live.”
If there was ever a city made for this kind of crossover, it’s NYC. From the gritty legacy of wrestling nights at Madison Square Garden to the rooftop bar culture that defines Manhattan summers, Seagram’s Escapes Spiked WWE Series is built for the urban fight fan, the flavor chaser, and anyone who wants to sip something loud while living larger.
So next time you’re grabbing a six-pack for a rooftop party in Williamsburg, pregaming before a Barclays event, or just need something cold to crush after a subway grind—grab a can and drink like a champion.
Because this summer in NYC, the most electrifying drinks in entertainment have officially entered the ring.
Idina Menzel Which Way to the Stage? Plays DOC NYC Nov 13 at SVA Theatre
Wicked, Rent, Frozen, and more – Idina Menzel: Which Way to the Stage? plays DOC NYC Nov 13 at SVA Theatre 333 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011
Be at the World Premiere for Idina Menzel: Which Way to the Stage? Part of DOC NYC
Beloved Tony Award®-winning actress and singer Idina Menzel’s many triumphs include iconic Broadway roles in productions of “Rent” and “Wicked” as well as the legendary voice of Elsa in Disney’s “Frozen.”
Yet one dream goal has evaded her grasp: to headline a concert at the world-famous Madison Square Garden in her hometown of New York City.
Filmmaker Anne McCabe follows Menzel on a national tour over the course of 16 shows as she juggles the challenges of being a working mom with a grueling travel schedule, all preparing to finally realize her dream.
Anne McCabe directed the doc, which will feature footage of Menzel in her most notable stage performances, Rent and Wicked, as well as interviews with family, friends, co-stars and creatives. It will also chronicle her personal experiences with in vitro fertilization.
“We made this documentary
to show firsthand how important it is to pursue your passions
and lean on those around you in times of hardship,”
said Menzel.
“This documentary was a joy to make, and I hope it resonates with my fans and new audiences alike who find themselves balancing motherhood, work and marriage while chasing their own dreams and inspires others to keep pushing forward.”
The first screening (Nov 13 – 12:00pm SVA Theater) will be followed by a Q&A with Anne McCabe, Idina Menzel, Rachel Cohen.
‘Evil Dead’ Hero Bruce Campbell Presents: ‘Bruce-O-Rama’ at Patchogue Theater Sat April 15
PART 1: PLAY A GAME! Hosted by Bruce Campbell, LAST FAN STANDING is not your father’s trivia contest. As the only interactive game show created exclusively for fans of pop culture, LAST FAN STANDING tests your knowledge about the things that really matter: Fantasy, Horror, Sci-Fi, Superheroes, Gaming. Everyone in the audience gets to play. Fans answering the most questions correct in the fastest amount of time will come up on stage with Bruce for the Final Face-Off, and one player will be crowned Last Fan Standing! Followed by a brief break for the crew to clear the stage and for fans to buy more stuff!
PART 2: WATCH A GROOVY BRUCE MOVIE! Bruce will introduce a cult favorite he’s been in and take questions before the screening. It’s a lively half hour of anecdotes, insults and random cash giveaways.
BUT WAIT – NOW HOW MUCH WOULD YOU PAY? In addition to these two events, depending on the type of ticket purchased, fans can also take home a custom, autographed poster of the event and a portrait-grade photo with the man himself! Let the good times roll at Bruce-O-Rama!
Tickets and info and Patchogue Theatre.
Niagara Falls mayor, Howard Milstein clash over future park
Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino has a vision for growing Cataract City’s tourism, while keeping visitors in town longer.
Creating a $150 million “gateway” park downtown that includes an ice rink, indoor arena and outdoor amphitheater.
However, the city doesn’t own the 12 acres of land it is eyeing for its proposed Centennial Park.
Howard Milstein’s Niagara Falls owns the lot and isn’t interested in selling it, even though Restaino says it was an NFR executive who first suggested the location a year ago.
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Instead, NFR, which has done little to bring new business or attractions to a prime downtown site that it has controlled for 25 years, has a very different idea. The firm is now is pitching a plan to put a data and technology center on a portion of its property and potentially bring hundreds of jobs to the site.
“We firmly believe that eminent domain proceedings are not needed, and we oppose such actions as highly premature,”
NFR Executive Vice President Roger Trevino
“Eminent domain can take years and cost taxpayers millions. It would be completely unnecessary in the face of the opportunities we have been discussing.”