Barry Manilow, Bruce Sussman Musical ‘Harmony’ Sets Broadway Fall Opening
Harmony, the musical that played a sold-out run at New York’s National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene last spring, will move to Broadway this fall.
Previews will begin at Broadway’s Barrymore Theatre on Wednesday, October 18, with Monday, November 13 as the official opening night.
Harmony chronicles the real-life story of The Comedian Harmonists, who sold millions of records in the 1920s and ’30s, made dozens of films, and sold out major venues around the world. The official synopsis “Their heavenly harmonies and musical comedy antics catapulted these six talented young men from singing in the subway tunnels of Berlin to international superstardom. What happened next is the story of Harmony.”
The musical features an original new score by Manilow with lyrics and book by Sussman. Warren Carlyle (The Music Man, Hello, Dolly!) is the director and choreographer, with Ken Davenport, Sandi Moran and Garry Kief producing.
“Broadway is where we always dreamed we would be,”
said Manilow and Sussman in a joint statement.
“Dreams really do come true.” Said Carlyle, “I’m so thrilled that we are bringing the amazing, true story of Harmony to Broadway. It’s a great honor and privilege to both direct and choreograph such an important story.”
Joining the producing team are Hunter Arnold, Marco Santarelli, Jonathan and Rae Corr, Adam Riemer, Scott Abrams, Amuse, Inc., Patty Baker, Tom and Michael D’Angora, Susan DuBow, Michelle Kaplan, Steve Kyriakis & Matt Donaldson, Harold Matzner, and Neil Gooding Productions. Harmony is produced in association with Wilfried Rimensberger and Stiletto Entertainment.
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Jérôme Peschard Leads Vietnam Art Renaissance, Launches Art Exhibition at the Sofitel Saigon Plaza in Ho Chi Minh City
Jérôme Peschard Launches Art Exhibition at the Sofitel Saigon Plaza in Ho Chi Minh City
For the past 60 years, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts has epitomised the essence of French art de vivre across the globe. As 2024 heralds its Diamond Jubilee, commemorated with a series of exclusive events at Sofitel properties worldwide, Sofitel Saigon Plaza, the paragon of French hospitality in Ho Chi Minh City, proudly inaugurated an extraordinary celebration of art.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/From-Left-Betty-Qiffe-Pallard-Consul-General-Daniel-Stork-of-the-Netherlands-to-Vietnam-Nykky-Do-and-Milena-Padula-Spouse-of-Consul-General-of-Italy-to-Vietnam-1024x684.jpg)
From Left- Betty Qiffe Pallard, Consul General Daniël Stork of the Netherlands to Vietnam, Nykky Do and Milena Padula- Spouse of Consul General of Italy to Vietnam / photos courtesy of Nick Middleton for the Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Painting-1-scaled-e1719530418374-684x1024.jpg)
photos courtesy of Nick Middleton for the Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
On the evening of June 21st, the Sofitel Saigon Plaza was the scene of a glittering event, marking the launch of a collaboration with the internationally renowned French Pop Artist, Jérôme Peschard.
![French Pop Artist Jérôme Peschard Portrait / photo courtesy of Stephane Thierry](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/French-Pop-Artist-Jerome-Peschard-Portrait-2-683x1024.jpg)
French Pop Artist Jérôme Peschard Portrait / photo courtesy of Stephane Thierry
The hotel’s lobby served as an elegant backdrop for an array of Peschard’s stunning oil paintings on recycled corrugated metal, showcasing his inspiration from French Indochina.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/group-1024x684.jpg)
From Left- Tracie May, Milena Padula- Wife of Consul General of Italy to Vietnam, Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel Manager Alistair Minty, Lindsay Nutley, Consul General of Australia to Vietnam Sarah Hooper, Simon Pugh and Michael Hooper // photos courtesy of Nick Middleton for the Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
The event attracted an illustrious group of attendees, including Mrs. Sarah Hooper, Consul General of Australia to Vietnam; Mr. Daniël Stork, Consul General of the Netherlands to Vietnam; Mrs. Milena Padula, spouse of Italian Consul General Enrico Padula; and Mrs. Lê Hạnh, CEO of TVHub Vietnam. Distinguished guests also included Michelin Starred Chef/Owner Peter Cong Franklin of Ănăn Saigon, totalling one hundred and thirty of Ho Chi Minh’s leading tastemakers.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Painting-4-scaled-e1719530504956-684x1024.jpg)
photos courtesy of Nick Middleton for the Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
Guests enjoyed a selection of exquisite canapés, fine wines, and champagne while admiring Peschard’s captivating works. Adding to the allure, music by DJ Edge Pamute filled the space, and trendsetters Tracie May and Nykky Domodelled custom-embroidered Áo Dài, the national costume of Vietnam, designed by Peschard and couturière Giao Basson. A pop-up retail store showcasing Peschard’s merchandise collection also opened to the public, featuring a curated selection of home decor, limited edition numbered and artist-signed lacquer replicas of paintings, and an array of gift items. Both the boutique and the art exhibit will grace the Sofitel Saigon Plaza throughout the summer, concluding in early September.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Painting-2-scaled-e1719530437404-684x1024.jpg)
photos courtesy of Nick Middleton for the Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
This premier event highlighted the vibrant intersection of art, culture, and gastronomy, celebrating a unique fusion that will enchant visitors throughout the season, encapsulating Sofitel Hotel and Resort’s world of prestige and luxury.
![](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Saigon_03-970x1024.png)
photos courtesy of Nick Middleton for the Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
“I’m deeply grateful to Sofitel Saigon Plaza for granting me such a fantastic platform to showcase my art. Although I am French, my heart is Vietnamese, and I’m thrilled to share my homage to Vietnam with their guests and visitors during the 60th Anniversary celebration of Sofitel Hotels and Resorts.” – Jérôme Peschard
“Marking 60 years of exceptional hospitality, we take pride in being a part of a legacy that consistently sets the standard for excellence in Asia, providing a unique experience for all modern travellers to explore Ho Chi Minh City through a French-inspired perspective.” – Mario Mendis, GM, Sofitel Saigon Plaza
ABOUT SOFITEL SAIGON PLAZA:
Sofitel Saigon Plaza harmonises the sophistication of French art de vivre with the vibrancy of local Vietnamese culture, delivering a luxury hospitality experience enriched by genuine heartfelt service. Conveniently located in a tranquil enclave on Le Duan Boulevard, Sofitel Saigon Plaza places you in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s business, cultural, and shopping district. The hotel boasts 286 rooms and suites adorned with refined décor and deluxe amenities, a fitness centre featuring advanced exercise equipment, and an outdoor swimming pool with breathtaking city views. Sofitel Saigon Plaza also features five dining establishments serving local and French cuisine, seven polished meeting rooms, and an opulent ballroom equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, making it the ideal destination for business, leisure, meetings, and gatherings.
ABOUT JÉRÔME PESCHARD:
Dubbed the “Gauguin of Vietnam,” Jérôme Peschard is a self-taught artist whose work reflects a life richly lived and creatively charged. His art bridges the past with the present, blending East and West, while drawing profound inspiration from his adopted home of Vietnam. Characterised by the use of oil on rusted corrugated iron sheets salvaged from local construction sites, his pieces reflect the very essence of Saigon – its history, development, people, culture, and vibrant spirit. Peschard’s unique fusion of Western pop art with Asian influences, inspired by comic book legend Jack Kirby and modern art icons like Basquiat and Warhol, continues to evolve as he explores new themes in his storytelling. In the dynamic energy of Vietnam, Peschard not only found his place in the world, but also his distinctive artistic identity.
Join Us MidTown NYC for An Incredible Prosecco Experience: Taste and Discover with Wine Expert Alan Tardi Wed June 26th at New York Wine Studio
Join Us for An Incredible Prosecco Experience: Taste and Discover with Wine Expert Alan Tardi Wed June 26th at New York Wine Studio
Prosecco has gone from a little known mountain fizz to a vinous superhero, overtaking Champagne (and every other sparkling wine out there) and enjoyed by wine drinkers throughout the world, as the base of a cocktail or an everyday quaff.
But despite its huge popularity, most people don’t know much about it.
And there is much more to Prosecco than many people are aware.
”My objective is to
clarify the critical differences
between the original ancient Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco and
the DOC Prosecco that was enacted in 2010.”
Alan Tardi
New York Wine Studio
Prosecco is produced only in Italy, in the Northern regions of Veneto and Friuli, and there are three official Prosecco appellations.
Prosecco DOC
One of them, Prosecco DOC, was created in 2010. It occupies a huge, mostly flat area encompassing almost two entire regions and accounts for most of the 700+ million bottles of Prosecco produced each year.
Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG
Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG is a tiny area in the foothills of the Dolomites consisting of 15 small municipalities in the province of Treviso. This is the ancient winegrowing area where Prosecco was born and made a miraculous comeback in the aftermath of World War II.
![New York Wine Studio's Alan Tardi](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Screenshot-2024-06-24-at-6.13.37 AM-898x1024.png)
New York Wine Studio’s Alan Tardi
Besides its pedigree, there are numerous factors of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene enclave that distinguish it from any other winegrowing area in the world: complex and diverse topography, variety of soils, native grape varieties, distinct sub-areas, ancient history, and varied typology—bubbly, fizzy, and still; secondary fermentation in tank or in bottle, leaving sediment in the bottle (known as Ancestral Method) or removing it (Traditional Method).
In this class—which takes place right in the middle of National Prosecco DOC week—we will discuss the origin and evolution of Prosecco in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene area. We will also examine the two additional Prosecco appellations created in 2010.
But most of the time will be devoted to exploring and tasting Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco through a lineup of 8 exceptional terroir-driven wines, in a variety of styles, that demonstrate the unique characteristics, complexity, and diversity of the original Prosecco.
Participants will also learn how to say “CONEGLIANO VALDOBBIADENE” like an Italian!
Alan Tardi has arranged a fantastic lineup of unusual and exceptional wines (half of them are coming directly from Italy) which demonstrate the various factors that characterize the complexity and uniqueness of Conegliano Valdobbiadene: Different production methods (“Tranquillo” i.e. still, Martinotti, Classico/Traditional, Ancestral); frizzante, spumante; single vineyards, Rive, native grape varieties; diverse, soils, terroirs and topographies.
List of Wines
- Prosecco Tranquillo DOCG “Il Canto Antico” — BORTOLOMIOL*
- Colli Trevigiani IGT Verdiso Frizzante Sui Lieviti — GREGOLETTO
- Progetto 5 Varietà Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG Brut — MARCHIORI*
- Conegliano Prosecco Superiore DOCG Rive di Ogliano Extra-Brut — BIANCAVIGNA
- Superiore di Cartizze Brut DOCG — RUGGERI*
- Superiore di Cartizze DOCG “Private” Rifermentato in Bottiglia 2014 — BISOL
- Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Rive di Carpesica “S.C. 1931” Metodo Classico — BELLENDA*
- Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Asciutto, Rive di Colbertarldo, Vigneto Giardino — ADAMI
- Torchiato di Fregona Colli di Conegliano DOCG “Ciàcoe” 2016 — CA’ DI RAJO*
*Shipped directly from the winery in Italy
Find more information and buy tickets at New York Wine Studio or at the link below.
https://www.newyorkwinestudio.com/original-prosecco
Cocktail magic, competition, celebration: Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024 at iconic Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel
Cocktail magic, competition, celebration: Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024 at iconic Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel.
MC Petey Majik hosted the 2-day Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024 June 14-15 celebrating with flavor, masterclasses, magic, competition. Tracie May captured it all.
Photos courtesy of Nick Middleton @glam.foodbev
![Tracie May at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Dancing-with-DJ-1024x1024.jpeg)
Tracie May at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024
A spectacular 2-day summer celebration, welcomed over 1000 cocktail enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike to the iconic Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel.
The vibrant cocktail carnival featured a dazzling array of over 130 cocktails from 36 premium global spirits, liqueurs and mixer brands.
![Fernet Branca poured at event](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Fernet-Branca-684x1024.jpeg)
Fernet Branca poured at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024
A gathering of Vietnam’s top mixologists, innovative concoctions were expertly mixed by a combination of the country’s most respected bartenders and up-and-coming talents.
Cocktail Carnival part of Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024
At the heart of the festival was a showcase of Vietnam’s craftsmanship and creativity, where seasoned mixologists flexed their skills to craft tantalizing libations.
![The Botanist at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/The-Botanist-684x1024.jpeg)
The Botanist at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024
From classic cocktails with a Vietnamese twist to avant-garde creations pushing the boundaries of flavor, each drink was a testament to the artistry and innovation within Vietnam’s ever-growing cocktail scene.
For guests inspired to continue the cocktail adventure at home, Mercantile Vietnam provided the option for attendees to purchase a bottle of their favorite brand from the event and have it shipped directly to their door.
Entertainment Extravaganza
The event’s charismatic MC Petey Majik led the carnival atmosphere and captivated the audience with a spellbinding magic show accompanied by igniting cocktail flaring performances from the talented Chương and Phước.
![Tracie May with Clase Azul at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/ClaseAzul-678x1024.png)
Tracie May with Clase Azul at Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024
On Friday, the stage was taken over with a charismatic live performance from Vietnam’s premier DJ and saxophone duo Omar and Pierre. The party continued Saturday with the contagious energy of DJ PIA.
Interactive Masterclasses and Exclusive Tasting Room
For spirits connoisseurs the festival also offered a wealth of knowledge with 4 optional interactive masterclasses hosted per day, where industry experts from Lady Triệu, Bruichladdich, Jose Cuervo, Highland Park and Lý Gia Viên shared their craft and insights with eager participants.
![Tracie May with Michelin Star Chef:Owner of Ănăn Saigon Peter Cường Franklin](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Tracie-May-with-Michelin-Star-ChefOwner-of-Anan-Saigon-Peter-Cuong-Franklin-677x1024.png)
Tracie May with Michelin Star Chef:Owner of Ănăn Saigon Peter Cường Franklin
Luxury spirits aficionados could enhance their experience further and purchase tickets to enter the event’s Exclusive Room, featuring personalized tastings from 8 of the world’s super and ultra-premium brands, with a combined retail price of over 600 Million VND.
Competitive Spirit
One of the highlights of the festival was the highly anticipated Best Cocktail, Best Bartender and Best Brand Competitions with guests encouraged to vote for their favorites.
Bartenders from across the country battled it out for top honors.
With precision, flair, and a dash of showmanship, contestants dazzled spectators with their signature creations, showcasing the ingenuity and talent within Vietnam’s cocktail community.
![Shanky’s Whip at Vietnam Cocktail 2024](https://dailyovation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Shankys-Whip-1024x684.jpeg)
Shanky’s Whip at Vietnam Cocktail 2024
On Saturday 15th June, the 2024 winners were announced: Mai Thanh Phong’s “Banh Mi Saigon” cocktail, made with Matusalem Rum, won Best Cocktail.
Nguyen Tuan Cuong, who works at Yugen Bar and is sponsored by Shanky’s Whip, was named Best Bartender. Also, Jägermeister was awarded Best Brand of the event.
Cultural Fusion
Beyond the cocktails themselves, the festival served as a social celebration of cultural fusion, from modern Vietnamese influences to global trends, the event highlighted the diverse tapestry of brands and the pioneering people shaping the country’s dynamic cocktail scene.
Vietnam’s Cocktail Revolution
As the final glasses were raised and the last drops were savored, the Vietnam Cocktail Festival 2024 left an indelible mark on the hearts and palates of all those who attended. With its vibrant energy, innovative spirit, and unwavering passion for mixology, the festival has undoubtedly cemented its place as a must-attend event on the global cocktail calendar, promising even more excitement and inspiration in the years to come.
Cheers to the next chapter of Vietnam’s cultural cocktail revolution!
Awards were announced on Saturday, June 15th, at 8 PM
Best Cocktail of the Event 2024
- Cocktail Name: Bánh Mì Sài Gòn
- Bartender Name: Mai Thanh Phong
- Brand Name: Matusalem Rum
- Bar Name: Madam Kew Bar
Best Bartender of the Event 2024
- Bartender’s Name: Nguyen Tuan Cuong
- Brand Name: Shanky’s Whip
- Bar Name: Yugen Bar
Best Brand of the Event 2024
- Brand Name: Jägermeister
Participating Brands:
- Large Exhibitors: Lady Triệu, Jose Cuervo, Cointreau
- Medium Exhibitors: Bushmills, Naked Malt, Kaibutsu, 1800, Campari, RCR Crystalleria Italiana.
- Small Exhibitors: Kurayoshi Matsui, Duncan taylor, Lark Distillery, Hangar 1 Vodka, Maestro Dobel, Bruichladdich Distillery Company, Passoa, The Botanist, No3 London Dry Gin, Dictador The Arthouse Spirit Brand, Colombian Gin, Stranger & Sons Gin, Fernet Branca, Espolon Tequila, Michter’s, Shanky’s Whip, Gran Centenario Tequila, Jägermeister, The Kyoto, Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, Matusalem, Brookies Byron Gin, Ly Gia Vien, Torani, Fentimans, Mercantile.
Participating Bars (in collaboration with brands):
- Kraken x The Dot Bar
- Sexton x Dram Bar
- Wild Turkey x Lost Birds Bar
- Glenrothes x Firkin Bar
Master Classes: Lady Trieu, Bruichladich, Jose Cuervo, Ly Gia Vien, Highland Park
Photos courtesy of Nick Middleton @glam.foodbev
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Argentina’s Trivento launches #TheFirstWhiteMalbec on Iconic NYC Sunset Cruise, Winemaker Maxi Ortiz Shares His Inspiration
Trivento launches #TheFirstWhiteMalbec on Iconic NYC Sunset Cruise, Winemaker Maxi Ortiz Shares His Inspiration.
There’s plenty of “other” product launches and then there’s Trivento’s Sunset Cruise launch for The First White Malbec. Clearly, Trivento is very excited.
NYC wine and food experts board the luxury yacht, from 1919, at Manhattan’s North Cove Premier Mega-Yacht Club & Marina.
A handful of NYC and East Coast wine and food experts board a luxury yacht, built in 1919, at Manhattan’s North Cove Premier Mega-Yacht Club & Marina. On-board, best-selling wine authors, top wine media, and NYC’s food and wine critics.
As we set sail, our wine glasses are filled with The First White Malbec in the world, produced by Argentina’s Trivento and Winemaker Maxi Ortiz.
It’s easy to be taken by the moment. You look up and see the majestic NYC coastline. Look around the yacht, even the most local New York cynics have their jaws agape. It’s just breath-taking to see.
Moments later, the crew aboard the Ventura Sailing Team are passing out delicious seafood and chicken-based appetizers to pair with Trivento’s White Malbec.
Ventura Sailing Team are passing out delicious seafood and chicken-based appetizers
We sail through the bay, passing the Brooklyn Bridge in the distance, coming up on Governor’s Island and of course, The Statue of Liberty.
Passing along the Brooklyn Bridge
Why Trivento’s White Malbec is a world-class Innovation
For over 150 years, Malbec has been grown widely throughout Argentina. Its deep purple color, rich aromas of plums and red berries. It’s perfect for smooth, supple red wines.
The fact that Winemaker Maxi Ortiz dares to take an incredible red wine and turn it into a white wine, shows world-class innovation, confidence and vinification prowess. But as we’ll learn further below, it wasn’t an easy process.
Ortiz later explains in detail, it took 4 years of trial and error. Getting closer and closer, but not perfect enough for him. What we taste today is a culmination of his efforts and lessons.
What does Trivento’s White Malbec taste like?
By now most of us on the yacht have had a second taste of the wine. It’s opening up and blossoming beautifully.
The color is surprisingly clear, crystalline.
The nose has aromas of white peach, grapefruit, subtle hint of red fruit.
It’s a very easy-drinking wine. Especially in the summer. The mouth has a refreshing acidity, light body. Notes of green apple. Pairs beautifully well with the seafood and light chicken dishes served here. I could also see it with a garden salad, caprese or sushi. Be daring and try it with BBQ as the acid will cut into the fatty meat.
Hearing from Trivento’s Team, Juan Jose Gil
Juan Jose Gil directs the Trivento brand in the United States.
He explains that Trivento was founded in 1996 by the group Concha y Toro. It was the first time they left Chile to make an investment outside of their origin when they chose Mendoza, Argentina.
They started with a very small vineyard of 154 hectares. Today these Malbec experts have 12 vineyards in four different valleys and over 1,764 hectares of vines. They offer Malbec at every price point and every value tier.
The company has three pillars: Innovation. Sustainability. Excellence.
From Juan Jose Gil’s explanation, all 3 pillars are thriving together as we sip their most innovative wine, from grapes farmed on their sustainable vineyards, enjoying its excellent quality.
Winemaker Maxi Ortiz playfully posing with the Statue of Liberty
Winemaker Maxi Ortiz Reveals His White Malbec Process
Ortiz has been working at Trivento since 2006, helping to build it into the fourth biggest winery in Mendoza.
2019 was their first vintage of Trivento White Malbec. But it’s come a long way from what the world is tasting today.
However, for him, it’s a very special wine for more that just the innovation it represents, but also a positive impact on society:
“Sales from this wine
go to a scholarship program that helps students
with low economic resources and high academic performance to finish schooling.”
How did he create the white Malbec?
He revealed parts of his 4-year process. He picked the grapes the last week of January, 40 days earlier than regular. Then they quickly pressed the grapes in order to separate the skin from the pulp. However it’s not “white” yet. Then it was more of a rose.
Then he revealed the biggest secret of the process. A winemaking method that is common with red wines, but not whites. Ortiz got creative, invented and daring – and it worked. And unfortunately, we’re not going to share it here today. As competition is already growing!
“We were the first winery [back in 2019] to make a white wine with a red grape, which is the Malbec.
And it’s fantastic because nowadays you can see at least 10 different wineries making White Malbec.
So this is the first White Malbec and
in a way Trivento creates a new category of wine in Argentina.”
The quality is clearly there, As Ortiz explains further:
“The grapes came from the same region, from the same vineyard,
from the same places that we use for our [traditional Malbec] Reserve.”
For those who follow NYC weather, it was supposed to be thunderstorms the day of the Sunset Cruise. Bravely and happily, the launch decided to move forward anyway!
The weather was dramatic and cloudy (but dry) all throughout the cruise. Then, as if anointed by a higher power, just as Ortiz finished speaking, the rain started.
A slow, steady rinse that grew stronger. By the time we returned to dock, it was a heavy downpour. But no one was complaining. Wet smiles all around.
If Trivento White Malbec has a way of brightening your day even amidst a heavy thunderstorm, imagine what it can do for your backyard barbecue?
Find more on the Trivento website
Follow Trivento on Facebook and Instagram.
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NYC’s Next Flight to Saigon: Tracie May Vietnamese Publicist and Foodie Shines Global Spotlight on Asian Flavor
NYC’s Next Flight to Saigon: Tracie May Vietnamese Publicist and Foodie Shines Global Spotlight on Asian Flavor
Tracie May made a name for herself in Los Angeles for 25 years as a luxury publicist and event planner leading hundreds of Opening Night parties, events and red carpets.
Then in an “Eat, Pray, Love” – inspired move, she decided to take a leap and move across the world.
In 2020, she relocated to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and became the Senior Editor of Epicure Vietnam Magazine, the most prestigious culinary and hospitality publication in Asia.
Today we catch up with Tracie to talk about life in Vietnam. The people, the culture, and of course the food.
Tracie May Vietnamese Publicist Foodie Indulges in Delicious at her role with Epicure Vietnam Magazine
Joe Winger:
What’s the most important thing that you want to share during this conversation?
Tracie May:
Don’t be afraid to take the leap of faith. Honestly, I took a massive leap of faith, uprooting my entire life.
I had a big life in LA. I was there for 25 years, and to take that leap of faith to relocate to Vietnam. It was never even on my radar.
People thought that I was insane when I said I was doing this. It was not supposed to be for the long term. But the whole point is, you never know where opportunity is going to come. You don’t know what your future looks like, until you write your own story.
I am proof positive that anything is possible if you just take a risk for yourself and your happiness, because the energy or the universe will provide for you if you’re truthful, connected and really get specific about what you want.
Tracie May with Chef Eden Daus of Lesung, holding Epicure Vietnam Magazine
Joe Winger:
You are now the senior editor of Epicure Vietnam Magazine. Tell me a bit about the magazine and your role.
Tracie May:
It’s a really beautiful, glossy print publication. They also have online and social [media presence].
It’s available in every VIP lounge, every business lounge at every major hotel, airline and club lounge. It has a lot of subscribers.
Focuses on culinary, luxury travel, hospitality, wine, chef profiles. [Food and beverage] business profiles as well as features on certain resort properties.
I was really lucky to [connect with] the publisher. I sent her a bunch of my writing samples. I joined the magazine about 17 months ago.
My main focuses are editing content, making sure the English is perfect, and dealing with editorial and the marketing teams.
But my favorite part is running the news section. [It’s] basically my curation of what’s hot in [food & beverage] in Saigon and all over the world.
I get to eat the best food all the time.
The majority of the restaurants that we cover are very high-end, gorgeous, [food and beverage] in town. So I get to eat a lot of amazing food which is awesome.
The food in Vietnam is extraordinary.
Joe Winger:
As a USA foodie, what’s a lesson you’ve learned about Vietnamese cuisine that you want the world to know about?
Tracie May:
The biggest lesson that I’ve learned, and it is evident in my extreme weight loss of 75 pounds in 2 ½ years, is it’s whole real food.
They are not jacking up their cows and their pigs with hormones. Organic is actually a thing here. The quality of the food, it’s not processed crap in a box that is run by Monsanto.
Because of the climate here, Dalat, which is the region in Vietnam where most of the produce is grown, some of the most unbelievable tasting produce is grown there.
The fruit is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted.
A watermelon is the sweetest, juiciest, delicious thing you’ve ever put in your mouth; and it’s available from every little fruit stand that is on Quốc Hương.
I walk to my local [stores] because I like to support locals here and have my little bag and pull my produce and all of it is grown on their farm,
It’s just that’s how people eat here. There is no Kraft macaroni and cheese. There is no processed, boxed chemicals here.
Because of that, the quality of the flavor profiles is so superior.
So that is the biggest difference.
The reason why there’s such an obesity problem in the U.S. is the abundance of processed food.
[Here in Vietnam], even fast food. We’ve got McDonald’s and Popeye’s and KFC. But the taste of a Big Mac or a Whopper with cheese is far different than anything you can get in the States because of the quality of the meat that they use.
That is the biggest difference of why Vietnam is so globally recognized as such a foodie hub.
Joe Winger:
You’re doing a lot to bring attention to Vietnam as a foodie hub.
Tracie May:
I was the guest judge on Top Chef Vietnam, and I was the guest judge on the finale of this show called Super Cake, Banh Xeo, which was basically, Build a beautiful cake. And these Vietnamese national TV, reality shows which showcase culinary.
So that was fun.
Joe Winger:
If somebody from the United States comes to Vietnam for a few days, from a food point of view, what must we try?
Tracie May:
Saigon is incredibly vibrant and there’s too much to do. For the best Vietnamese food hands down It is in district one, which is basically the city.
Mạ Quán
It’s gorgeous. A restaurant with Vietnamese cuisine that focuses on historical dishes from the imperial city of Huế to the north and in Hanoi to the Mekong Delta and is visually stunning.
The flavors are unbelievable. For sure if you want to eat an extraordinary Vietnamese meal, that’s a place, hands down, highly recommended.
Lesung
In the last 3 months I was introduced to Malaysian cuisine. Spicy, sambal based, chili based. The chef / owner is a fine dining chef, who’s a celebrity chef here. He wanted to get back to his roots and he opened this restaurant that’s very reasonably priced. Fine dining, but in a casual setting, not expensive and truly authentic Malaysian cuisine. All of his grandmother’s recipes and it’s home cooking at its best. That is a must go.
If you love sushi, Noriboi is an extraordinary omakase restaurant in Thảo Điền, in the town where I live. 12 to 18 tastings of caviar, and the best uni flown in from Japan, and extraordinary toro, and you can’t imagine how good, it’s insane.
Joe Winger:
You took a very dramatic pivot a few years ago and it turned out so well.
Tracie May:
I knew that I had to make a change. I knew that I was unhappy. Even though I had great friends and a great life and did really cool stuff in LA, I felt like I was just trapped in a hamster wheel.
I was bit by the “Eat Pray Love” bug.
Decided that, life’s too short to be unhappy.
There is a big, wide, beautiful world out there. Why not explore it while I have the chance?
I happen to have family who live in Saigon, and we conspired together.
I sold my car, put everything in storage, all the paperwork, packed my two dogs and three suitcases and got on a plane.
The original plan was to hang out in Southeast Asia for three months.
Leave my stuff with my family, get a backpack and travel throughout Southeast Asia and go pray with some Buddhist monks. Have my Tomb Raider moment in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and go do a lot of scuba diving. Then three months later, go home [to the United States] and face the music.
But COVID happened, my life shifted. So I stayed.
I couldn’t have imagined a more incredible life that I’ve been able to curate for myself than I have been able to in Saigon.
Tracie May at Tet Lunar New Year 2024 party
Joe Winger:
Your background is a world class publicist in North America. Because of the pandemic, you went from a publicist to a “stay at home mom” figure.
Tracie May:
I did, but I still had to pay my bills, right?
So I had a free place to stay because my family was paying the rent. When [my family] got stuck in the US during COVID, when Vietnam closed their borders, they got locked out for 10 months.
Suddenly I’m a mother to 2 kids in an international school. I’ve got to take care of their three dogs, my two dogs, their villa, all their stuff, in a country that I didn’t know and a language that I didn’t speak.
It was all about pivoting.
At the time I had hot pink hair. All the expat moms, they’ve got kids and they live in a compound because their husbands run Nike or Adidas or…[some huge company]
There’s me, this newbie from LA with my fuchsia hair riding my family’s electric bike with the kids on the back taking them to school.
The [expat Moms are] like, who and what is this?
Originally I became the talk of the town.
I live in a bubble, a little enclave within the city, it’s expat land.
I really think in the beginning I made friends out of total pity. Suddenly they were like, “Let’s take you to lunch.” So there were several luncheons introducing me to society and I created my clan.
The one thing that’s hard about here is that the expat life is very rotational because a lot of the families are on contract.
If you work at the consulate, you’ve got a 2-3 year contract.
Once the contract is done, you’re back home. I don’t want to leave.
So one of the hardest things about making really close friends here is that they leave. So it’s a lot of continual rotation.
I have friends who’ve been here for 14 years up to 35 years who felt the bug like me and decided no, this is where you want to be right now. This is a good place to be, but yeah, that’s basically how it happened.
Joe Winger:
A minute ago, you used the phrase “talk of the town.” Let’s dive deeper.
You’re getting huge growth on social media. Food and dining, lifestyle, travel in this genre. Your face is everywhere. Your voice is everywhere. Your name is everywhere.
What’s it like living your life, when someone sees your face, name and recognizes you?
Tracie May:
It is bizarre.
I have no idea how it happened, especially in Vietnam. Local Vietnamese don’t speak a word of English.
There’ve been so many times that I’m walking my dogs up my street or [I’m] on the back of a “Grab” bike, which is our version of Uber and they see me, look at my picture before and say:
“Sorry, Madame. Are you Madam Tracy?”
And show me a picture of myself.
I’m sure it’s due to doing TV appearances on Top Chef Vietnam and other major, national primetime TV shows here with millions of Vietnamese watching.
It’s bizarre, especially coming from Hollywood where all my focus has always been the promotion of others and the promotion of brands.
Suddenly I’m the [one being] promoted and I just find it really funny. But I’m grateful.
Joe Winger:
How has publicity changed from LA to Vietnam?
Tracie May:
I wear a lot of hats here [in Vietnam]. I’ve become the “go to” event producer.
I was a pretty major event producer in the States and produced [around] 250 fashion shows in three continents around the world, a bunch of parties in LA, and red carpets.
There’s tons of talent in Vietnam. So now I’m doing it for major Western companies who want a sprinkle of American or they want a real Western perspective for [their event], I’m the girl they call.
One of the events I produced was the 25th anniversary of the Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel.
That was a huge event inviting every government official, major CEO, all of their massive VIPs.
Tracie May with Artist Jerome Peschard
I’m actually about to produce another event with Sofitel for one of my clients. One of the most talented people I’ve ever met in my entire life, Jerome Peschard.
He’s a French artist with the same story as me, except he got here, fell in love with Saigon and just never left . He met his wife and has a bunch of kids. He has become the most collected artist in Asia globally, for specifically pop art related to historic, historic Vietnamese French and machine and pop art and he does it all. Composite art.
I brokered a deal with Sofitel on June 21 in celebration of the 60 year anniversary of the Sofitel Hotels and Resorts global brand, their Diamond Jubilee.
We are doing a two month installation, exclusive installation of his works being some are 2.6 meters x 1. 5 meters – large scale, which are going to be in the lobby as an installation in collaboration with the hotel.
It’s a massive thing, and they called me, so I’m really honored.
I get to work with him every day and he’s a total rock star.
Tracie May living her best life in Vietnam
Joe Winger:
What’s the theme at this point in your life?
Tracie May:
The moral of the story is “Don’t be afraid to take the leap of faith.”
Joe Winger:
It sounds like you crossed your fingers, closed your eyes and took the jump.
Was there a big concern before taking that jump? How did that big concern work out for you?
Tracie May:
It’s very personal.
The concern wasn’t about work. I knew that I could work internationally. I knew I could do PR online and still service clients abroad. No matter where you are in the world, the cream rises to the top and you will figure it out.
On a personal level in the sense that I have always been a serial monogamist. I had a really petrified, paralyzing fear of being alone.
The idea of being 50 and alone again, scared me. Having to start over again, scared me.
What I’ve learned from that is, I have no problems dating. I have no issue being alone. I actually revel in it because my life is so public now. When I get to be in my underpants, watching Netflix with my two dogs, eating a ham and cheese on freshly baked sourdough baguette with some tomatoes and lettuce; and some truffle aioli from my friend’s company. That’s my happy place.
That has been the biggest lesson that being alone is okay. Being alone is actually a good thing.
I don’t need to have a partner or a marriage to justify and qualify who I am. I’m just fine on my own.
Joe Winger:
What are the ways to find you and follow you online? How do you want people to find you?
Tracie May:
It’s all about the gram, right? My Instagram is @_TracieMay_
Or you can find me as Tracie May on LinkedIn.
My blog is here, but I rarely update it because I never have time.
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KosherPalooza 2023 Delivers Big on Flavor, Family and Foodie Fun
KosherPalooza 2023 Delivers Big on Flavor, Family and Foodie Fun.
Nearly 4,000 foodies filled New Jersey’s Meadowlands Expo Center June 28, for flavor discoveries, tasting the best kosher foods, wines, spirits, desserts from around the world.
In addition to incredible food, the full-day extravaganza was packed with events. Crowds formed to watch cooking competitions, learn from mixology demonstrations, wine tasting classes. People who love discovering flavors learning from Kosher experts.
But that’s not it!
Fans of Kosher influencers and authors, Chanie Apfelbaum and Dani Klein, got meet and greets, autographs and selfies; learn food and drinks tricks in-person.
A yummy experience for sure!
Trade panel discussions with industry experts like Gabe Geller at Kosher Palooza
Trade panel discussions with industry experts like Gabe Geller. After the spirited conversation, lines formed to hobnob with some of the top kosher creatives from across globe.
More than 100 booths including…
The Cheese Guy, Prairie St. Prime, Jacks Gourmet, Holy Wagyu Meats, Kosher Valet, Bethel Creamery, Royal Wine Corp., Pizza Biza, Bread and Batter, The Nuttery, Pelleh and so much more.
There were big crowds around most of the food tables. The good news is, they moved fast. At even the most crowded spot, the wait was less than 90 seconds.
Brent Delman, a.k.a. “The Cheese Guy”, serves up flavorful, kosher treats at Kosher Palooza
The Cheese Guy
Brent Delman, a.k.a. “The Cheese Guy,” your cheesemonger, producer and purveyor of rich, flavorful small-batch cheeses that are also kosher, vegetarian and 100% free of artificial preservatives or flavorings.
As they explain, while most specialty and many commercial brands are made with animal rennet and other animal enzymes, you can count on The Cheese Guy to use only plant-based or microbial non-animal enzymes.
Learn more at www.thecheeseguy.com
Sharing nature-inspired granola is Granola Chik’s passion at Kosher Palooza
Granola Chik
Sharing nature-inspired granola is her passion. They are committed to making wholesome granola with premium ingredients, in small, hand-made batches to ensure its freshness. Try their new Granola Chik Bark!
Find more at www.granolachik.com
Royal Wine Corp
Royal Wine strives to be the premier manufacturer, importer and distributor of specialty wines, spirits and liqueurs from around the world. Their commitment to perfection and family tradition spans over eight generations.
Find more at: RoyalWine.com
Eden Wok
25 years in business as a fast-paced Kosher restaurant, we’ve perfected a menu of over 60 Chinese dishes and 100 sushi items.
Find more at: EdenWok.com
“We wanted this site to be about people having a positive kosher experience…
Shlomo Klein
co-publisher Fleishigs Magazine, Kosher Palooza event host
…to come and have fun, walk around taste foods, enjoy great entertainment around food and enjoy and we did just that.
The vibe was electric all day and everyone just had a great time – consumers, vendors and everyone in between.”
“At Fleishigs we are all about making kosher fun and exciting
this show was the next step actually bringing fleishigs to the people
and we are so happy with the way the show turned out and the overwhelming positive response,”
Shifra Klein
Editor in Chief,
FLEISHIGS Magazine.
More than just the authority on kosher cooking, Fleishigs Magazine
More than just the authority on kosher cooking, Fleishigs Magazine serves up kosher like never before. Each of its eleven annual issues is a jewel box of triple-tested recipes, entertaining tips, food trends, Shabbat and holiday entertaining guides, in-depth chef spotlights, luxe travel features and more.
A feast for the eyes dedicated to the best modern cuisine, Fleishigs takes kosher to unexpected heights to reach and inspire the discerning chef, the food obsessed and budding gourmand in us all.
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