Despite all of Judd Apatow‘s recent directorial success, it’s hard not to remain entirely impressed by the man’s moxie. Since his teen years, Apatow’s appetite for comedy and being around comedians was borderline obsessive- in a good way- evidenced by the release of his brand new book of interviews “Sick in the Head: Conversations About Life and Comedy.” On the day of its release, Apatow would be joined by the host of NPR’s “This American Life” Ira Glass for a stimulating conversation on the director’s approach to compiling the book and on his comedic upbringing at the Upper East Side’s 92Y. And as an added treat, folk guitarist turned actor Loudon Wainwright III would also join the pair, adding in some acoustic numbers to break up the discourse and entertain the sizable crowd on hand.

 

In his mid-teens, Judd Apatow’s determination to become ingratiated into the society of stand-ups afforded him the opportunity to interview legendary comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Garry Shandling and Jay Leno before any of them came to cultural prominence. It’s that same steadfast demeanor that landed him in a string of production roles and slowly fleshed out one of Hollywood’s foremost resumes- from humble beginnings as a USC dropout to producer on “The Larry Sanders Show,” to starting “Freaks and Geeks” to films like “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” and writing/directing the likes of “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” “Knocked Up” and “This is 40″ to producing HBO’s “Girls.” Apatow’s production company has not only spawned the careers of Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill, James Franco and Jason Segel, but they’ve also clearly been responsible for some of the most successful comedy films of the last decade. With 2015′s “Trainwreck” starring Amy Schumer slated to drop in July, it appears that Apatow still has his finger on the pulse of the stand-up scene despite the heights of fame that he’s already reached.

With “Sick in the Head,” we’re left with a look at how Apatow interpreted the advice of so many of his current peers and fashioned the feedback into a wildly successful career for himself. The book meshes interviews from the early 1980s with more current conversations with contemporaries like Louis CK, Jim Carrey, Jon Stewart, Lena Dunham and Adam Sandler but in many ways it provides more inspired views on life than it is a definitive how-to guide for aspiring comics. Conversationally meanwhile, Apatow and Glass seemed to be right at home with one another, often being drowned out by raucous crowd laughter during their discussion on Tuesday night. The talk ranged from the expected- Apatow has publicly and staunchly opposed Bill Cosby‘s continued touring in light of the allegations against him – to the hilarious- making strange small talk with Presidential candidate Jeb Bush backstage at “Late Night with Seth Meyers” earlier in the day.

Throughout, Apatow would repeatedly reference “Funny People,” an often forgotten 2009 dramedy featuring Adam Sandler as a veteran stand-up who learns that he’s dying- while mentoring Seth Rogen, another young comedian- hinting that his own mother’s early cancer diagnosis largely influenced the some of the film’s main story direction. Glass, to his credit, weaved the chat seamlessly, touching on some serious points without ever getting too deep as the pair discussed Apatow’s neediness and obsessive nature while directing. He prefers to be hands on in both the editing room and likes to fine tune every single detail, evidenced by the time he spent worrying about whether Wainwright’s chair was appropriately setup before the singer’s three-song set in the midst of the evening. That component- obsessiveness- is one that runs parallel throughout the pages of Apatow’s book- an interesting and easy read that lets us inside of some of comedy’s most creative and well-known minds- and allows us to glean some additional insight from one of Hollywood’s brightest and down-to-earth success stories.

(Photo Credit: Michael Priest Photography)

Although it had been repeatedly clear that the pair had never shared any screen time together, fans of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” were undoubtedly thrilled for a mini show reunion of sorts inside of 92Y’s Kaufmann Concert Hall on Tuesday night. Gathering to promote the newly released hardcover book entitled “Reflections from Hell: Richard Lewis’ Guide On How Not To Live,” the well-traveled stand-up joined fellow comedian JB Smoove for a 75 minute discussion replete with wild swings of topics both light-hearted and personal. The discourse would become a love affair of sorts as the pair would extoll each other’s virtues and styles of comedy as the disjointed conversation would often eventually result in raucous laughter amongst the awaiting audience.

Though the focus on the book was often shrouded by chatter, the premise of “Reflections” is a marriage of Lewis’ wildly neurotic thoughts paired with the dark drawings of artist Carl Nicholas Titolo, a long time friend of the comic. The one-liners, while often shocking, are also eye-opening providing but a glimpse into one of the most original and entertaining comedians of the last three decades. Surviving the likes of drug addiction and alcohol dependency, Lewis has never been short on material, resulting in his almost unparalleled longevity- and a rightful place on GQ Magazine’s list of the “20th Century’s Most influential Humorists.”

With so much to say, JB Smoove is probably better suited as a subject than an emcee. Though they often talked over each other, the pair’s admiration for each other’s unique skills was immediately evident. Delving into more serious topics like inherent racism, religion and addiction, both Lewis and Smoove showcased a far deeper realm of thought than their turns on “Curb” would otherwise have you believe. That said, they spent much of the bantering session playing the part of their characters. Lewis’ wild gestures were on full display as he worked through the physical expression of his thoughts- much like his stand-up typically unveils. Smoove’s improvisational skills similarly seemed to suit him for this setting, as he preferred to riff with Lewis rather than pose questions in a standard format. The conversation often ran into different directions allowing the evening to be more of a performance than a standard chat.

Despite their differences in upbringing, the pair, as many other comedians can attest, seem to be kindred spirits around the art of stand-up comedy. Their mutual respect and appreciation for Larry David was a subject of continual repetition, though fans will be disenchanted to hear Lewis discuss the show in the past tense- a potential indicator that a 9th season of the show may not be coming after all. Tuesday night’s conversation allowed fans of the show- and comedy in general- to witness two experts in their craft having a candid discussion that was everything that a comedy act is supposed to be. It made you think some and it made you laugh a great deal. And from two of the genre’s most identifiable and respected acts, that’s really all one can ask for.

- Dave Gendelson

- Kevin Costner

(Photo Credit: Michael Priest Photography)

In the midst of growing racial tensions in neighborhoods around the country, “Black or White” (PG-13) utilizes overtones as the back drop for a story that revolves around an interracial custody battle. Reuniting director Mike Binder with the film’s star (and chief financier) Kevin Costner for the first time since 2005′s “The Upside of Anger,” the two hour drama is both poignant and contemporary, funny yet touching. And though the film eventually boils down to a courtroom war between a well-to-do rich white lawyer and a hustling, hard working grandmother from Compton, the sides are inevitably more similar than they are different.

The story has many different facets underlying the obvious battle that shares the movie’s moniker- from drug use and addiction to love and loss. But where the script takes a somewhat predictible turn, there are moments brought out by the movie’s fantastic cast that allows an unusual premise to be more believable. Fellow Oscar winner Octavia Spencer absolutely shines as the overbearing Rowina, a desperate mother and grandmother that supports an oversized Compton family with a slew of side jobs. In her efforts to keep her deadbeat son in line to retain rightful custody of his daughter, Rowena enlists the help of her brother (played brilliantly by Anthony Mackie), a cut throat attorney with a win-at-all-costs mindset. Once a heart throb, now portraying a grandfather, Costner (Elliott Anderson) is especially phenomenal here as a mourning, deeply distressed caretaker- just trying to do his best to raise his young granddaughter. And Bill Burr more than holds his own as Elliott’s representation both in and out of the courtroom.

In anticipation of the film’s release, Columbia University Film Professor Annette Insdorf welcomed Kevin Costner to the Upper East Side’s 92Y on Thursday evening as part of the “Reel Pieces” series. Celebrating Costner’s incredible career, the jam packed auditorium was regaled with clips from some of the actor’s most lauded films before settling in for an advance screening of “Black or White.” Following the film, Costner himself would join Insdorf on stage for a candid conversation about the struggles in having the movie made, his ardent belief in the viability of the screenplay and the necessity to sometimes exceed any blurred racial lines to create a film that came off as real.

Often we deify the celebrities that appear before us on the big screen as larger than life personalities- perhaps more often, when doing so, they tend to disappoint in real life. Costner’s electric persona on the stage in front of us was captivating from the start as he passionately detailed his determination to create this specific film for the viewing public, financing much of the movie himself in order to do so- with the hopes that ‘we’ would see it. Charismatic, funny and down to earth, the nearly hour long conversation breezed by as Costner touched on his slate of films from “Water World” and “Field of Dreams” to “Dances With Wolves” and “The Bodyguard.” But what’s most striking about Costner’s appearance is his ability to be almost poetic- even without a script in hand. His love for the history of cinema oozes with each passing word, humbled by his own fame and success- an unlikely ending given his troubled beginnings. Inspired and spirited- the full video can be accessed here.

“Black or White” starring Kevin Costner and Octavia Spencer is rated R, has a runtime of 121 minutes, and is in theaters everywhere now.

- Dave Gendelson

(Photo Credit: Michael Priest Photography)

Braving the admittedly overblown winter ‘blizzard’ eventually dubbed ‘Winter Storm Juno,’ several hundred fans of comedy survived the seven some inches of white powder and descended upon the Upper East Side’s 92Y on Tuesday night. Drawing the bundled up bunch out of their homes was stand-up comedian Jim Gaffigan as part of 92Y’s ‘In Conversation’ series with fellow comic Judy Gold. Though the show got off to a late start, the banter was both inspiring and laugh-fueled.

Though writing live comedy certainly brought Gaffigan to the public consciousness, it’s his guest turns in film, television and even on a Broadway stage that have allowed his numerous talents to shine. And his appearances on both the New York Times bestsellers list and routinely near the top of the iTunes Comedy Albums charts have only furthered Gaffigan’s ‘jack-of-all-trades’ persona. In light of his brand new sitcom pilot being picked up by TV Land (‘The Jim Gaffigan Show’), the comedian joined Gold on stage for more than ninety minutes discussing the comedian’s life behind the scenes as a husband and writing partner to his wife, as a father of five children and as an accomplished performer in the world of entertainment.  Gold, an interesting subject in her own right as a comedian, mother and homosexual in show business kept the show moving conversationally rather than with a traditional style of interviewing.

Often, 92Y allows guests considerable insights into the lives and careers of the celebrities involved with their programs and Tuesday evening’s discourse was no different. The pair interacted like long time friends, with a shared love of food, an innate comedian’s ability to make even the most obvious of life’s observations funny for the rest of us and the challenges of being a parent and a comedian in the same breaths. Though the pair touched upon subjects from religion- (Gaffigan is Catholic, something he’s not always necessarily forthcoming about; Gold meanwhile makes no effort to hide her Jewish faith) to writing comedy, we would have appreciated a deeper dive into Gaffigan’s notable career.

With the face of an everyman and the charisma of someone who’s anything but, we’ve seen Jim Gaffigan’s mug on shows from Ellen and Law & Order to Sex and the City and Portlandia. But at the end of the day, it was the comic’s classic take on “Hot Pockets” that ingratiated his comedy into popular culture, coupled with a style that injects his own voiced over thoughts into his delivered material- in a way that always seems to hit its mark.

The evening’s program concluded with some advice for young comics and writers that seemed to share the same message: be brave enough to step up to the mic, repeatedly. Says Gaffigan, “the only way to really understand comedy is to keep getting up there,” a sentiment seconded by Gold and lauded by an audience that hung on the pair’s every word. Despite having seen his face on our screens for more than a decade now, we’re hopeful that Jim Gaffigan’s style of comedy will translate to a successful sitcom and one where his acting talents will finally receive the same appreciation as his comedic ones.

- Dave Gendelson

Children of the 1980′s aren’t likely to be as familiar with the name Dick Cavett as the baby boomers that were fully grown by the time “The Dick Cavett Show” aired in the early 1970′s. But the lesser known contemporary to the likes of Johnny Carson and Merv Griffin would host a show on television and radio that would span three decades, even hosting The 1970 Primetime Emmy Awards as a reflection of his celebrity at the time. He’s been involved in some of the most uncomfortable and pivotal moments in the history of the American talk show and Tuesday evening, Cavett would grace the stage at the Upper East Side’s 92Y to promote the release of his latest book ”Brief Encounters: Conversations, Magic Moments, and Assorted Hijinks” (October 28). With a foreward written by The Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon, the book would recount some of Cavett’s reflections upon a career that would serve as an understated but highly regarded precursor for the late night talk show hosts that would follow in subsequent decades.

To effectively moderate the evening’s candid conversation, famed actor Alec Baldwin would be tasked with keeping Cavett’s stories on track and for ninety minutes the pair shared in a good deal of laughter along with an older-skewing audience as the host recalled some of his fondest memories of his years in the limelight. Just shy of his 79th birthday, Cavett remains razor sharp with his wit being as quick as his memory. The pair detailed Cavett’s humble beginnings, where he claimed that his “highest ambition was to be a guest on a talk show- then go back to Nebraska and say that ‘I made it.’” But after matriculating at Yale University and following stints at Time Magazine and as a talent coordinator (see segment producer) on The Tonight Show with Jack Paar and a writer for Johnny Carson, Cavett was given a hosting opportunity for his own show back in 1968- one that would span five different networks and last until 1996.

Baldwin to his credit was perfectly suited to handle hosting duties for the chat as both a pop culture and television historian but also as a performer, where his sarcasm and exaggerated gestures translated well to the jam packed auditorium space. With questions listed on his cell phone Baldwin pressed Cavett on the ‘realness’ of the guests on his show- whether it was easy to tell who was being themselves and who was portraying the person that they hoped they’d be perceived as. Cavett recalled stories about Hollywood legends like Richard Burton (“For five enthralling minutes, he talks about being a drunk”), Marlon Brando (“He must be one of the most complex men ever”), John Lennon (“He was accessible. John was that way with me. I wanted to make him laugh for some reason” and “He was a great guy and thanks to our insane gun laws, he is no longer with us”), Lucille Ball (“[She] sent two hours of tape cassettes about what to talk about. Other people would just come in”) along with tales involving Johnny Carson, Frank Sinatra, John Wayne, Stan Hardy, Woody Allen and Groucho Marx.

The pair fed off one another spontaneously and despite barely taking time to plug Cavett’s new book, the conversation seemed to be derived from the many pieces of candor disclosed in “Brief Encounters” from the host’s lengthy career. Politcally, Cavett continually seemed to knock David Frost’s interview style, (Cavett was specifically mentioned by name by President Nixon on the Watergate Tapes) criticized our nation’s gun laws, and reminisced about some of the more tension filled segments from his show’s history- namely Georgia Governor Lester Maddox and NFL player/activist Jim Brown in a heated debate over segregation and the death of fitness guru J.I. Rodale, which occurred live on his show- one which never made it to air as a result.

Mostly though, the conversation was a light-hearted one- Cavett’s fond recollections about music notwithstanding– “I didn’t give a damn about rock music”- despite having hosted the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and The Rolling Stones on his show. The evening’s highlight however occurred as Cavett remembered an evening in 1973 as Marlon Brando broke the jaw of photographer Ron Galella, who had secretly followed the pair to a New York City restaurant. Baldwin, noting his own troubles with paparazzi joked “God that sounds awful” before comedically looking out toward the crowd. And without missing a beat, Cavett chimed in “The nice thing is that there aren’t people around like that anymore.” It was among the evening’s most well received moments that captured the comedic timing and relationship between two iconic figures in pop culture over the past half century.

- Jane Van Arsdale

(Photo Credits for this piece: Joyce Culver)

In the midst of a full-on media blitz to promote the release of new autobiography “Yes Please,” two of present day comedy’s most celebrated and praised personalities joined forces inside of the 92Y auditorium on Tuesday evening. “Late Night” host and former Saturday Night Live head writer/performer Seth Meyers flanked actress and new author Amy Poehler (“Parks and Recreation”) for a candid 75 minute discussion about the funny lady’s comedic history, personal life, her fondest SNL memories and the amount of material that went into the writing of her newly released book.

Meyers jokingly began the dialogue in disbelief that the pair had sold out the 92nd Street space, noting “The highest we ever dreamed was the 72nd Street Y.” Conversationally the discourse was kept entirely light throughout, like two close chums letting the rest of us into the room to eavesdrop on their humorous back and forth antics. But the two friends constantly fed off each other, perhaps harkening back to their improvisational pasts and giving us but a glimpse of the star power that both seemed to show off early on in their careers that earmarked them for greatness. Though both rose through the ranks from the same Chicago improv troupe and began together at SNL shortly after September 11th, 2001, Meyers stuck around for 13 years, while Poehler left after seven. As her run on “Parks and Recreation” is set to conclude after this year- amazingly, the show’s seventh- just as Meyers is settling in as host of his own late night program- it’s a fitting coincidence that through all the sketches, late night writing sessions and awards show hosting jobs that each have worked through, their paths find them back here in New York City, still intertwined in the very fabric of names like Fallon, Hader, Samberg, Fey, Armisen and Wiig that share their similar lineage.

Since her days on SNL , Poehler has clearly become one of America’s most beloved actresses.  Her roles in films like “Mean Girls” and “Baby Mama,” her stints alongside pal Tina Fey as the celebrated co-hosts of the Golden Globe Awards, and roles on the innumerable television series’ on which she’s been featured have all been widely lauded. And although she’s been snubbed more than a dozen times by the Primetime Emmy Awards, her relentless pursuit of comedic excellence shows no signs of slowing down. Juggling multiple projects may be an issue for the rest of us, but between writing her memoir (at the age of 42!) while working on her sitcom and film products, her philanthropic work with the likes of Worldwide Orphans and her Smart Girls online community, all while raising two young boys- and Amy Poehler’s unparalleled ambition and subsequent success makes life look easy for the rest of us.

With guests like Bette Midler, Ilana Glazer and Abbi Jacobson sitting in the audience, the crowd filled the auditorium with uncontrollable laughter for much of Tuesday evening’s conversation. We’ve transcribed a slew of funny and poignant nuggets from the banter below but among the funniest moments occurred as the pair recalled Poehler’s OBGYN passing away just days before she was slated to give birth. Recounted Poehler “He was a lovely old man. He delivered Sophia Lauren‘s babies,” before sarcastically bragging “He was familiar with famous vaginas.” Meyers, to his credit, played off of Poehler’s comedic foibles throughout, often showing off his acerbic and lightning quick wit that seemed to catch the crowd off-guard all evening long. In a day and age where most celebrities are attention starved and ego-driven, it was utterly refreshing to enjoy the presence of two long time friends, who despite their tremendous collective star-power, remain true to themselves and decisively grounded, even though they stand right in the midst of the brightly shining limelight.

Amy Poehler and Seth Meyers Sound Off On….

On her book title “Yes Please”: “Saying yes has gotten me to where I am today. Just being open to the possibility of things. Yes is probably my favorite word.”

On writing alone: “It’s the loneliest creative process I’ve ever known. It’s like ‘Oh my God, it’s just me.’ It’s like “I Am Legend”- that’s what it feels like.

On re-reading other comedian’s books before writing her own: “There’s nothing worse than reading something that’s great when you’re writing your piece of shit.”

On what defines success for her: “I think I made it clear in the book- just money and bitches.”

On her favorite SNL host: “John Goodman. He actually remembered my name.”

On her drunken advice at the after-party to Ashlee Simpson following her notorious SNL performance: [slurring] “It’s not a big deal. Nobody cares.”

On appearing on SNL with her childhood heart throb Jon Bon Jovi: “He went back into his archives and got his ‘Slippery When Wet’ outfit and could still fit into it. That’s real. He keeps it tight.”

On the first ‘Debbie Downer’ sketch, where the entire cast breaks out in laughter: “It was the perfect combination of laughing, sound effects, camera close-ups, and a circle of people breaking at certain times. That’s like Prozac to me, that sketch.”

On performing on SNL at 9 months pregnant: “It’s really fun to be that pregnant because you freak everyone out.”

On ‘Parks and Recreation’: “I’m so proud of it. It’s such a good show.”

On the show’s finality: “I’m so delighted that we get to give these characters a proper send-off.”

On if she could be quarantined with one person: “Dolly Parton.”

On the trait that she could steal from Seth Meyers: “I would probably steal your wit. Your sharp wit that is so precise.”

Seth’s trait that he would steak from Amy Poehler: “You never let a room get down. You are the most buoyant person in any room.”

On if she could be the lead in any other show: “‘The Wire.’ I would play McNulty”

On advice for a 13 year old aspiring comedian: “Copy exactly what the people you like did. That’s what I did.” Mentioned Bill Murray’s career path.

On charitable work: “It’s okay to help people for selfish reasons. Whatever motivates you or drives you to be of service to help others, it doesn’t matter.” To which Meyers quipped, “I doubt the orphans are saying ‘I like the toys, but I doubt the motives.’”

On her advice for performers with stage fright: “Start a production company. Hire your friends. And take ten percent of whatever they make.”

On Adam Scott (co-star, “Parks and Recreation”): “He’s such a good actor that we’ll be doing a fighting scene and after I’ll be like ‘are you mad at me?’”

- Jane Van Arsdale

For 66 years it seems Vincent Furnier has been conflicted. A religious upbringing and pious family life that conflicted with an early love of music. An addiction to drugs and alcohol that threatened to derail his own marriage. A personality battle that disguised Furnier the man and the character that he portrayed in the lime light. The very public struggle of what is art versus obscenity. Better known to the world as Alice Cooper, Furnier is the subject of a recently released documentary appropriately titled “Super Duper Alice Cooper” and Monday night, the legendary rocker was front and center at the Upper East Side’s 92Y for a film screening and candid Q&A hosted by rock journalist Anthony DeCurtis to the elation of a vocal New York City audience.

“Super Duper Alice Cooper” is set amid the backdrop of Jeckyl vs. Hyde, where Vince the Man versus Alice the Character remains a prevailing theme throughout the film. Though ‘Alice Cooper’ in name belongs to the band formed in the early 1970′s, it’s the frontman that’s become most synonymous with the moniker. Uniquely set as a biopic, the documentary never once features Cooper himself or anyone else for that matter actively speaking on camera. Instead, the style utilizes old photos and videos to illustrate the iconic shock rocker’s entire career as the likes of Elton John, Shep Gordon, Dee Snider, Bob Ezrin and others recount the band’s formative years and rise to stardom.

Despite some touching moments, the often humorous film provides a high level glimpse at Cooper’s five decades making music, glossing over some major details but overall puts the artist’s incredible life into perspective. Stories including Frank Zappa, Iggy Pop, John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix and Frank Sinatra help to encapsulate a truly storied rise to fame- told mostly by an incredulous Cooper, who continues to tour with his demonic stage shows to this day. As a child of the 1980′s, it’s difficult to comprehend Cooper’s level of controversy during his meteoric ascension- effectively meshing heavy rock music with Broadway theatrics and a penchant for shock like nobody who had come before him. With that in mind, “Super Duper Alice Cooper” is a highly entertaining and relatively informative documentary that accurately characterizes Cooper as one of the most polarizing and most creative figures in the history of rock.

 

Fittingly, Cooper’s arrival into New York City coincides with a live performance as tonight (October 28th), he’s slated to open for Motley Crue at Madison Square Garden. A standing ovation welcomed Alice Cooper out to center stage at 92Y where 45 minutes of discourse would enlighten the crowded auditorium. The older skewing crowd appreciated each Cooper name drop, where even the obscurest of references would receive a hearty ovation from the live audience. DeCurtis kept the conversation on track, supplementing much of what we’d just seen in the film with questions that served to keep the dialogue flowing freely. Among the highlights- Cooper recounted his earliest vaudevillian tendencies, the infatuation in getting an audience to gasp that had him hooked on performing, his stories of a ‘lost weekend’ with John Lennon, Keith Moon and Harry Nilsson as party of their ‘Hollywood Vampires’ drinking club, and the ability for word of mouth to become urban legend in feeding the band’s insane reputation. To close out the evening, Cooper thanked his long time manager Gordon and his wife Sheryl, both of whom received praise from the crowd as they stood up to be recognized as being integral parts- and life saviors- to both the career of Alice Cooper and also the man, Vincent Furnier, who by all accounts, remains super.

- Dave Gendelson

The Upper East Side’s 92Y space is among the most versatile in New York City, lending its auditoriums and classrooms to informative forums, seminars and interactive chats with celebrity guests. Recently though, the venue has been ramping up its selection of food-focused events with local chefs and cocktail artisans holding court over a few dozen attendees in an intimate setting. With that in mind, Monday evening allowed a small group of folks to travel from Manhattan to Italy without having to leave 92nd Street as author and food historian Francine Segan would host “Undiscovered Italy: Tasting Tuscany.” The entertaining ninety minute session focused on Tuscany’s diverse array of food and drink by region and unearthed a multitude of informational nuggets as guests chomped on snacks indicative of the Tuscan culture.

 

The classroom setting was certainly appropriate during Segan’s program, led by a slideshow of still photos that helped to reinforce the region’s noted historical references and provide a glimpse at some of Italy’s most sweet and savory dishes. But even without a trip to Tuscany in your recent plans, there was still plenty to glean from the evening’s casual presentation. Discussion points were aplenty ranging from the way that the region’s ‘lardo’ is created using slabs of marble in Colonnata to the northern area of Pietrasanta where many artists learn the craft of sculpting to the beauty of the beaches in Forti dei Marmi- which Segan compared to the Hamptons- to the beauty of Massarosa where during ‘Notte Bianca,’ the city hangs their best whites on clotheslines around the city and restaurants stay open all night long. In short, the session provided a glimpse into how vastly different the region can be from province to province.

Though the history of the area certainly put our understanding into perspective, we listened most eagerly as Segan detailed the many culinary delights of Tuscany- the famous desserts in Siena (‘Panforte’), the medieval city of Lucca and its family run restaurant (Antica Locanda di Sesto), the home of the world’s best chocolate (Amedei) in Pontedera, and of course some of Italy’s finest restaurants in Firenze. From panzanella to sciacciata, our collective mouths watered from picture to picture, while others in attendance scurried to take notes on Florence restaurants and sandwich shops like Semel, All’Antico Vinaio and Hemingways based on Segan’s recommendations.

 

Of course no class dubbed ‘Tasting Tuscany’ would be complete without some light bites to nosh on ourselves beginning with delicious pours of the balanced 2008 “Caprili Brunello di Montalcino,” a big spicy Tuscan red wine. Passed around spoonfuls of extra virgin olive oil and trays of Corsini Biscotti, Tuscole Tomato and Chili Pepper Crackers and Amedei chocolates made their way around the room throughout the evening which only enhanced the many flavors that Segan was discussing in front of us. And Segan to her credit, is a particularly effective orator in that she fondly recalls so many of her tasting experiences almost like a close friend or relative recalling a recent excursion. Her classes are relatable because of her presentation style while her diverse travel history and penchant for making things sound and look delicious only lend even more credibility to her expertise. Though we sat inside of a small room filled with New Yorkers on Monday night, it certainly felt like we were transported to Tuscany- if only for a short while.

 

To celebrate the release of their brand new bulbous book which is one part recipes and one part history, the country’s most identifiable meat team from Pat LaFrieda Meat Purveyors held an informative chat Tuesday evening at the Upper East Side’s 92Y space in the Warburg Lounge. Pat LaFrieda Jr., Sr. and cousin and President Mark Pastore were joined by television personality and famed New York City Chef at Butter, Alex Guarnaschelli for an introspective look at the City’s most highly acclaimed purveyor of premium meats. The quartet conversed for more than ninety minutes to the delight of the assembled crowd, all of whom were more than eager to ask questions of the men responsible for growing their legendary American business to incredible heights.

(Guarnaschelli, above from May 2014′s “Comfort Classics”)

It would be difficult to move along much further without mentioning the team’s new book, aptly titled “Meat.” Released just last week, the 250 plus page guide is a massive hardcover encyclopedia which outlines the brand’s time honored history from small City based outfit to their recent explosion over the last decade. Intertwined with stories and personal memories are meat-focused recipes from some of the team’s favorite notable chefs and restaurants- some of which have even shuttered. With help from the likes of Josh Capon (a repeat winner at the “Burger Bash”), Lidia Bastianich and others, “Meat” is a do-it-yourself guide to preparing restaurant quality fare in your own home- assuming that is, that you start with a quality meat product provided by Pat LaFrieda, Jr., best described as ‘The King of Meat.’

Guarnaschelli was an ideal moderator for Tuesday night’s panel discussion, often adding in little nuggets from her own upbringing and interesting tidbits about running a Manhattan kitchen. It also helped that it seems she’s formed a relationship outside of the kitchen with her meat purveyors- a friendship that’s brought her to the LaFrieda holiday dinner table more than once. The (pardon the pun) ‘meat’ of the conversation though was carried by Pat Jr., a natural orator who more than established himself as the current face of the company. He was joined by his father Pat LaFrieda Sr., whose no-holds-barred approach to the company’s history through storytelling made for a large part of the evening’s entertainment. As for Mark? His unapologetic candor as a meat-lover (his nickname is ‘Mark the Mouth’) was rarely outspoken with regard to conversation points like grades of beef, USDA regulations, and the recent uptick in folks with vegetarian and pescatarian lifestyles, but he provided a nice middle ground and different company perspective from someone that doesn’t have the LaFrieda surname.

Perhaps most interesting about the evening’s candid discussion was a story that overshadows the intricacies solely involved with the meat industry. The conversation and in many ways, the book, were particularly revelatory providing business lessons that can be applied to most walks of life. The ability to overwork and out think the middling middle-men. The ingenuity of staying on top of the next big food craze and in many ways carving out that niche for themselves (see: Shake Shack). The perseverance in overcoming the weight of regulations, red table and obstacles that previously stood in the path of the growth of the premium Pat LaFrieda Signature Blend. It’s these character traits that allowed their business to become a brand and their brand to become the featured meat of choice in more than 1200 different restaurants. And their American success story is now captured thoroughly in one hardcover book.

- Jane Van Arsdale

On Sunday April 20th, veteran actor and comedian Tracy Morgan‘s fourth hour long stand-up special “Bona Fide” premieres on Comedy Central. In celebration of its release, Morgan joined fellow funnyman Hannibal Burress in New York City on Wednesday night at the Upper East Side’s 92Y for an evening of laughs as the two exchanged opinions, compliments and equal confusion at a truly eclectic audience.

After seven seasons a piece first as a cast member on Saturday Night Live and then again on NBC‘s hit show 30 Rock, Morgan is entirely comfortable in a live setting, often quickly riffing on point after point and jumping in with a hilarious anecdote whenever one strikes him. Burress meanwhile, a comedian quickly rising up the ranks on the highly buzzed show Broad City, is more of a reluctant celebrity. Even as the evening’s moderator, his stage presence here seemed reserved if not a bit uncomfortable, though he comes off as dry and often very funny. The pair chatted casually on stage without much of a road map to keep their conversation on track- it was as if an auditorium filled with some 500 people were let into their private conversation- and for ninety some minutes, it was difficult not to maintain an ear to ear smile with Morgan ranting on stage. In person, he’s far funnier than he probably gets credit for.

  

(Photo Credit: Joyce Culver, right)

The pair touched upon Morgan’s upcoming hour long special fairly often. Filled with a range of topics, the comic calls “Bona Fide” a milestone for himself, one about his life, his family and his journey. A relieved Morgan revealed “I finally get to hear my voice again. It’s my voice and my story and no one else has to write for me.” That voice was on full display on Wednesday night and though several of his diatribes were seemingly plucked verbatim from the special, the dialogue felt unique proven by each eruption of belly laughter from the 92Y audience, which never seemed to end as the evening progressed.

Between all the raucous laughter throughout the night, a funny thing happened. The often rambling, rambunctious Morgan also showed an introspective side. Genuinely appreciative for the opportunities which he’s been given, he espoused the virtues of his comedic predecessors showing a love for the art of comedy that just isn’t evident from seeing him perform on screen. Forced to be funny as a defense mechanism by growing up with an older brother, crippled with paralysis, Morgan, a proud father, often preached positivity to the audience- encouraging aspiring comedians to ignore detractors and simply ‘be funny.’ As if it were that simple to the rest of us, as we marveled at a truly underrated mastermind’s undeniable comedic talents. In perhaps the most entertaining and undeniably the funniest conversation at 92Y in some time, on the heels of his upcoming Comedy Central special, Tracy Morgan’s star has never shined brighter.

Tracy Morgan Sounds Off On….

On people doing Tracy Morgan Impressions: “I don’t mind. I made a living doing me.”

On meeting Hannibal Burress in Chicago in 2008, who opened for Morgan: “You be like the date rape drug and I’ll be like the Big Black Dick.”

On social media: “I’m old school. Social media ain’t nothing but standing on the corner.”

On political correctness in 2014 and stifling free speech: “The comedy, stage, clubs, concerts: that’s off limits. You already killed rock and roll. Now you want our sense of humor?”

On his approach to his audience: “When I get on stage, before I’m even funny, I want people to relate to me on a human level.”

On Morgan taking over for the departing David Letterman: “I tried to throw my hat in that ring. That ring was too damn high. I wanted that late night job. I woulda shook late night up.”

On comedians: “There’s a difference between stand-ups and comics. Comics are when you are on your way in or on your way out. But stand-ups- you’re standing up and connecting with the people in the back.”

On white people: “Sometimes when white people look at me on stage, I get nervous. Like I’m in court. That’s why I wear a watch.”

On a work/life balance: “Our girlfriends must hate us. Because our first love is comedy.”

On his family asking him for money: “You not going to out think me man. If you were smart, I’d be asking you for money. You’d be on Saturday Night Live.”

On potential outside ventures: “My business is stand up and my side business is TV.”

On his start in comedy: “The first time I ever touched a mic professionally, I got chuckles. I heard my voice in a mic and I liked it. I approach it with enthusiasm because even if I’m not hungry, I still got mouths to feed.”

On his legacy: “When I die, I’m gonna be like Richard Pryor- a shell of a man. Because I gave you my all.”