The Arts in NYC, Prof. Drabik, 2007
The Arts in NYC, Prof. Drabik, 2007
The Arts in NYC, Prof. Drabik, 2007
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Arts in New York City
2007
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46
What I Have Experienced
47
-- Shalini
Kishan
Arts in
NYC --
Seminar
1
48
In a matter of four months we have somehow managed to transform
from nervous college freshmen to curious cultured New Yorkers. From being a
tedious obligation, CHC became a hub for an exchange of ideas and feelings a
place where we shared our delights and disappointments, and where we received
guidance to acquire a meaningful experience from our outings. Having visited some
of the most prominent institutions in New York City like Brooklyn Academy of
Music, the Eugene ONeill Theater, La MaMa, Metropolitan Opera, New York City
Opera, the Guggenheim, and the Metropolitan Museum, each one of us can say that
we have been exposed to some of the most savory ingredients that contribute to the
flavor of New York City.
One analysis upon another, we were constantly challenged to think, question, reflect,
and conclude. There were shows, like Hotel Cassiopeia, that seemed impossible to
perceive but once we collectively discussed and expressed our opinions, the
formidable mysteries of the performance unraveled slowly. We discovered the
significance of expression through performance dance, acting, music; and that of
expression through visual representation. We investigated the ways in which these
forms impacted us in the way that they did. We began to closely observe and
appreciate our surroundings during the performance. Every detail of the show or
exhibition was now noteworthy because it contributed to the power of our
experience.
We now had the ability to elucidate issues that would otherwise perplex us, for
example the difference between words and pictures. Our distinct responses revealed
the importance of each form. We found out how determined we really were
whenever we formed a circle in class, our discussions always suggested reflective
insight and we were able to achieve a lot by working together.
Lastly, we valued team work even more than we ever did. Not so much work, it
was more like connect. What could be better than being with friends while
exploring one of the greatest cities in the world? The course was our instrument to
learn more about each other while learning about the city. This class was something
we all had in common and therefore, was a slice of our lives that united us all
together. After such an experience, one can only be encouraged to look forward to
future seminars that will enhance our understanding of the metropolis that still has a
lot of domain to be covered.
In a matter of four months we have somehow managed to transform In a matter of four months we have somehow managed to transform
from nervous college freshmen to curious from nervous college freshmen to curious cultured cultured New Yorkers. From being a New Yorkers. From being a
tedious obligation, CHC became a hub for an exchange of ideas and feelings tedious obligation, CHC became a hub for an exchange of ideas and feelings a a
place where we shared our delights and disappointments, and where we received place where we shared our delights and disappointments, and where we received
guidance to acquire a meaningful experience from our outings. Having visited some guidance to acquire a meaningful experience from our outings. Having visited some
of the most prominent institutions in New York City like Brooklyn Academy of of the most prominent institutions in New York City like Brooklyn Academy of
Music, the Eugene O Music, the Eugene O Neill Theater, La MaMa, Metropolitan Opera, New York City Neill Theater, La MaMa, Metropolitan Opera, New York City
Opera, the Guggenheim, and the Metropolitan Museum, each one of us can say that Opera, the Guggenheim, and the Metropolitan Museum, each one of us can say that
we have been exposed to some of the most savory ingredients that contribute to the we have been exposed to some of the most savory ingredients that contribute to the
flavor of New York City. flavor of New York City.
One analysis upon another, we were constantly challenged to think, question, reflect, One analysis upon another, we were constantly challenged to think, question, reflect,
and conclude. There were shows, like Hotel Cassiopeia, that seemed impossible to and conclude. There were shows, like Hotel Cassiopeia, that seemed impossible to
perceive but once we collectively discussed and expressed our opinions, the perceive but once we collectively discussed and expressed our opinions, the
formidable mysteries of the performance unraveled slowly. We discovered the formidable mysteries of the performance unraveled slowly. We discovered the
significance of expression through performance significance of expression through performance dance, acting, music; and that of dance, acting, music; and that of
expression through visual representation. We investigated the ways in which these expression through visual representation. We investigated the ways in which these
forms impacted us in the way that they did. We began to closely observe and forms impacted us in the way that they did. We began to closely observe and
appreciate our surroundings during the performance. Every detail of the show or appreciate our surroundings during the performance. Every detail of the show or
exhibition was now noteworthy because it contributed to the power of our exhibition was now noteworthy because it contributed to the power of our
experience. experience.
We now had the ability to elucidate issues that would otherwise perplex us, for We now had the ability to elucidate issues that would otherwise perplex us, for
example the difference between words and pictures. Our distinct responses revealed example the difference between words and pictures. Our distinct responses revealed
the importance of each form. We found out how determined we really were the importance of each form. We found out how determined we really were
whenever we formed a circle in class, our discussions always suggested reflective whenever we formed a circle in class, our discussions always suggested reflective
insight and we were able to achieve a lot by working together. insight and we were able to achieve a lot by working together.
Lastly, we valued team work even more than we ever did. Not so much Lastly, we valued team work even more than we ever did. Not so much work work , it , it
was more like was more like connect connect . What could be better than being with friends while . What could be better than being with friends while
exploring one of the greatest cities in the world? The course was our instrument to exploring one of the greatest cities in the world? The course was our instrument to
learn more about each other while learning about the city. This class was something learn more about each other while learning about the city. This class was something
we all had in common and therefore, was a slice of our lives that united us all we all had in common and therefore, was a slice of our lives that united us all
together. After such an experience, one can only be encouraged to look forward to together. After such an experience, one can only be encouraged to look forward to
future seminars that will enhance our understanding of the metropolis that still has a future seminars that will enhance our understanding of the metropolis that still has a
lot of domain to be covered. lot of domain to be covered.
49
The fluidity of the instrument [violin] made me fall
in love with it, especially during the piece, Land of
Gloom, Land of Mists, when the violinists played
decrescendos that moved me to feel the tenderness
and the darkness of the song.
-- In retrospect of Tchaikovsky
Avery Fischer Hall
We spent our time admiring the beauty of some
sculptures, scratching our heads at others, debating
among ourselves about the meanings of certain pieces,
talking to other visitors about the art, and having a good
time while we were at it.
- In retrospect of Martin Puryear at MOMA
Because the theater was so
small, there was a greater
intimacy between the actors
and the audience.
- In retrospect of Flags at 59E59
The more I explore the arts, the more I come to realize
that you have to give yourself a chance to give the artist
a chance.
- In retrospect of the ICP
The ballerinas were not just people fluttering in tutus; instead, they
were highlighting the power of the human body by reaching for its
limits. I was swept away not only by the elegance of ballet, but also by
what it indicated about the capabilities of humans.
- In retrospect of American Ballet Theater at City Center
50
Cherish this city
left you by default
include it in your daydreams
there are still secrets in the streets
even I have not discovered.
- Audre Lorde
A Trip on Staten Island Ferry
Cherish this city
left you by default
include it in your daydreams
there are still secrets in the streets
even I have not discovered.
- Audre Lorde
A Trip on Staten Island Ferry
Le Prix
Painted cedar loses its nature, but gains its artifice.
The abstract of wood has nothing concrete,
Only a bizarre form
Seemingly defying gravity.
An endless chain of suspense suspends my disbelief,
But, what was the Prize?
Someone answers, Your disbelief is the prize.
Ah.
I gave myself a chance to give Martin Puryear one.
Its beauty, I saw.
The most challenging task turned out to be the most
enjoyable.
Understanding was not possible
Without others beside me
Adoring the sculpture with me
Articulating what seemed impossible to articulate
Pouring our hearts into what we could say.
Bring your prejudgments
Let them be shattered
Fear of the unknown offers the most promising prizes.
There are prizes worth discovering.
51
Professor Drabik ! Billy Schaefer ! Barbara Beacom ! Ceena Chandrabos
E
m
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T
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!
F
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A
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Mary Perez ! Norma Perez-Hernandez ! Priya Puliyampet ! Ruby Cheng
R
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!
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J
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MY FAVES
Performances and Exhibits
[American Soldier Landing
On Omaha Beach]
Not only is the blurring
effective in conveying the
battlefield experience, it!s even
more amazing that Capa had
the courage to charge up the
beach with the soldiers.
As I watched Hotel Cassiopeia, I
was completely lost. The plot
made no sense to me. All I pulled
from this was that all of it was part
of his imagination. However, I
found something inspiring in Hotel
Cassiopeia. To this day I still
dont know what it was that I found
so hopeful.
The Great Figure
While we only spent about 30
minutes on this piece, I found it
particularly interesting. For one, I
actually interpreted it right the first
time. With his use of color and
shapes, I saw the firetruck quickly
rushing toward me from afar.
!
!
!
S
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52
In Other News.
This term I did a lot of dancing for some
reason. From ballet to !god-knows-what-
I-was-trying-to-do", these little activities
were more of an aerobic exercise than a
dance. I learned the most important
thing ever:
I SHOULD NEVER EVER DANCE
AGAIN!!!!!
BAM and Juniors
Professor Drabik ! Billy Schaefer ! Barbara Beacom ! Ceena Chandrabos
R
a
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!
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A
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Mary Perez ! Norma Perez-Hernandez ! Priya Puliyampet ! Ruby Cheng
Now I have nothing
against Juniors, but I
have never seen that
much sugar in one slice
of cheesecake ever. As
if the Cheesecake
wasnt enough sugar,
they went on and added
a whole coating of
chocolate. If there
were ever a time to use
Heart Attack in a
Box, this would be the
time. On a lighter note,
It was some good Stuff.
Supreme
Commander
Ladies and Gentlemen. From now on I will be
known as the Supreme Commander as the
picture to the left says. Just Ignore the
Eisenhower part. And I have no idea what
Zareen and Evan are doing.
53
I think my dream assignment for
this course would be if I could
travel around the city, taking
pictures of the different arts of
New York City. Give me a
month with no classes. Give me
an unlimited Metrocard. Give
me free admission to the
different arts available in New
York. I can guarantee that I
would come back with hundreds
of pictures of all the different
cultural institutions and exhibits
I had been to and, of course,
filled with the exhilaration of
having been somewhere new.
It would be very disappointing if
for a well-anticipated and unique
course such as this we were to
spend more time in a classroom
learning about an exhibit or,
even worse, writing thousand
word papers on a particular art
movement. The city itself should
be our classroom. Now, that I
think about it, I really hope there
arent thousand word research
papers for this course. It would
really deflate the fun
Excerpts from the
Excerpts from the
Observational Papers
Observational Papers
of
of
Zareen Tasneem
Zareen Tasneem
54
I felt that four versions of the Berio piece were too much, becoming repetitive.
Only two versions wouldve been sufficient I noticed that some audience
members had binoculars, indicating that they were experienced goers. The soloist
finally came out for the Beethoven piece. Most of her parts were scales and trills,
and her body movement, while playing, seemed as if she was about to burst out
in dance. She moved along with her bow movements. There was an emphasis put
on the strings, with the winds and such more in the background. During the
orchestras forte parts, the soloist exited. The crowd continuously applauded for
about 5 minutes after the Beethoven piece.
Look to the
Look to the
FUTURE
FUTURE
At first glance from afar, you think that its a series of hills with men in
dresses scattered about. However, I realized that this was just an illusion. Its
actually just one side of a hill, with only one person throughout all the
photographs. Each photo has the person descending the hill at a new
position, on each side. After pondering on the pictures, I realize now that
half the photos were reversed or flipped to create that symmetrical feel. Its
an interesting technique used by Searle, playing with the audience perception
of what is the reality of what theyre seeing.
This was my first time seeing professional tango live My seat was in the
side balcony, about midway. I had a good view of the stage, with a few blind
spots. Even though I took Spanish as a second language, I couldnt follow
what the singers were singing. I only understood a few words since I couldnt
keep up with the rapid Spanish, missing the meaning of the songs. The solo
violin part was good, very well played.
55
s Impact on
s Impact on
Me
Me
Arts in NYC has been an overwhelming experience! Getting to make new friends and
sharing the sensations of viewing a professional theatre play, opera, ballet, and more for
the first time have been the thrills Ive thoroughly enjoyed. All those late nights of
viewing performances, the class discussions we had fun chatting about (with much
enthusiasm, might I add), and putting on our own skits have been memories I will always
share. I have taken a great deal of lessons out of this course. There are a few select
values that I appreciate having gotten to learned.
First of all, I can now truly believe I am a cultured person. Finally, Ive been able to
experience what other New Yorkers around me had smiled about for ages! Ive not only
viewed these art performances and exhibitions, but Ive learned to grasp the significance
behind them. Each and every art stroke, dance step, music note, and acting line is never
to be taken for granted!- trying to understand true art can only broaden your mind.
Secondly, Ive gotten myself away from my television set quite a bit. Ive learned to
appreciate more mediums of art. I didnt always understand what I saw, but it was that
struggle to get a hold on something bizarre that was the fun part. It was always
interesting seeing what my classmates came up with, and why. It only helped me
understand that every art form is open for interpretation. I also really appreciate how
genuine the hard work is put in by the dancer, singer, artist, etc. Television is much more
simulated, where as with an art form, one is really expressing what they feel, and thats
what I love about art the most.
Thirdly, I now know my way around New York City, and I now recognize the names of
places and performances! Whenever I open up my copy of the Post or Daily News each
morning, I become familiar with the name of an art exhibition or theatre company
whenever I see a listing of events in the city. Furthermore, I have learned to acquaint
myself around the streets of New York City, just based on the theatres we had been to.
I can proudly state that this class has made me more aware of my surroundings.
Ive expanded my horizons from being around each and everyone of you. Thank you for
listening to my reviews on the arts, for your own intellectual commentaries, for fun
explorations of the city and of ourselves, for discerning reality and illusion, for showing
me the meanings, for poking fun at the M&Ms lady, and for teaching me so many new
aspects of the arts!
67
Barbara Beacom
Personal Response: Arts in New York City
The unknown is now the familiar,
The foreign is now domesticated in my heart.
The pile of playbills and programs cover my desk. They hide
behind my lamps, under my laptop or in between my homework. They
are scattered, so that when I am not looking for them, one will hit
me. Hit me in a good way. A way in which brings me out of reality
and into a world of New York art.
Arts in New York City had accompanied many high
expectations in my mind. Being previously exposed to visual and
performing arts, I thought the class would be a way for me to see
more exhibitions and performances. I needed to explore other types
of art, besides Broadway plays or typical Renaissance paintings. I
expected to be moved. I wanted to be transported into a world of
complex analysis of work that I previously never considered art.
What I received was a deepening understanding of the wide
range of art. The off-off-off Broadway show September 12
th
showed
how art could incorporate a strong political message, even in a small
caf. The Metropolitan Operas Le Nozze Di Figaro presented how
instrumental music, vocal music, and theater could combine to make a
love story even more enchanting. BAMs presentation of Hotel
Cassiopeia made me appreciate the troubles an artist can have in
making art while dealing with life. Hotel Cassiopeia also used various
types of art, including film, dance and theater, to describe a visual
artists life. The events I attended opened my mind to new ideas and
concepts of art. I can now understand why a man standing in one spot
for an hour can be considered dance, or how spray-painting walls can
be visual art.
68
The Curtain Call
Curtain
The Entrance.
Of not the teacher,
But the idea
That we have to step out
As it steps in.
It can invade your space
Or enhance it
It really is your choice
I chose to let the spirit
The cloaked (yet visible) ghost
Of ART
Come though my eyes, ears, fingers, mouth, and heart.
ART has no definition
An orphan among words
ART can be a flick of a wrist,
A splash of paint on a canvas
A photo of bones,
Or a dancer on his toes.
The magnitude
Extended fingers
Point
To her partner!s pointed toes.
The dark blue
Fights
The light red.
The violin
Screams,
Yet sings over the conductor!s wand.
The actor!s tears
Fall
Into our eyes as we pain over their loss.
And me never wanting
The curtain to close
Close
On the journey
Of ART
In my city.
Barbara Beacom
69
A rt and the City were for me one and the same.
R ich in culture, history, tradition and variety,
T umultuous, alluring, wondrous and enigmatic.
S imple, yet complex, serene, yet climatic.
I nudated by the confusion of trains, buses, streets, and avenues, I
N ever had the courage to explore the treasures the city had to offer. Then a
N ew phase of life began, with the entrance into the Honors College, that
E nvisioned the entire city as its campus. My whole perspective changed, a
W orld of unknown was placed at my feet.
Y ay! The first seminar was like a expedition to investigate
O peras, musicals, plays, dances, and modern art, causing the mind to
R each limits never imagined, and learn life lesson books never taught,
K indling feelings of awe, surprise, shock, and perplexity. As
C loude McRay says, the City has bent to my hostile heart to win, caught
me in passion to her pillowy breasts,
I nvoking me to accept challenges, to find beauty in art, and
T hrive to remain open-minded to the incomprehensible, even to New
Y ork Citys implausibility.
-Ceena Chandrabos
70
71
The City.
72
During this course, you
get to see something
spectacular.
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On September 13, I saw the play September 12th at the Nuyorican Poets Caf. I had
been to the Nuyorican only once before, for a teen open mic two summers ag
On August 27, I began my first day of classes at City College. Little did I know that all
my preconceptions were going to be tossed out of Harris Hall when my pr
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The Arts.
73
Forced comprehension of the arts
in New York City that enhances
our knowledge of what New York
has to offer.
Appreciating Art
Appreciating Art
Roberth Mendoza
Professor Drabik
CHC 10101
Roberth Mendoza
Professor Drabik
CHC 10101
74
An Opportunity for Fun
and Knowledge.
An Opportunity for Fun
and Knowledge.
! Le nozze di Figaro:
Music that
enchanted us.
Acting that made us
laugh and an
opportunity to get
the best sleep of a
lifetime.
! Hotel Cassiopeia:
Confusion and
excitement that
made us realize that
the mind of an artist
is filled with of
simplistic yet
inspiring thoughts.
A combination of
Forrest Gump and
Moritz.
! Le nozze di Figaro:
Music that
enchanted us.
Acting that made us
laugh and an
opportunity to get
the best sleep of a
lifetime.
! Hotel Cassiopeia:
Confusion and
excitement that
made us realize that
the mind of an artist
is filled with of
simplistic yet
inspiring thoughts.
A combination of
Forrest Gump and
Moritz.
! American
Ballet
Theater: This
changed my
idea of what
ballet was.
We were
shown that
we could
laugh and
see acting
while
dancing was
going on.
Modern and
classical
danced
combined
into one.
! ! American American
Ballet Ballet
Theater: This Theater: This
changed my changed my
idea of what idea of what
ballet was. ballet was.
We were We were
shown that shown that
we could we could
laugh and laugh and
see acting see acting
while while
dancing was dancing was
going on. going on.
Modern and Modern and
classical classical
danced danced
combined combined
into one. into one.
75
Arts in NYC/Semester 1 : Mary Perez
Everything has its humble beginnings, and
for us it was the Honors College trip to
Spring Awakening The Musical. For most of
us we enjoyed the music and the
performance. Little did we know that we
were getting a preview of our honors course
and what would be in store for us.
I remember the first day of class; entering a
relatively small classroom in Harris Hall and
finding out our professor was Professor
Drabik, who was filled with energy from the
start.
From going
to watch
various
shows and
visual
exhibitions
we were able
to explore
the various
kinds of art
held within
New York
City.
All the shows
that we have
went to have
been a
challenge and
a delight at the
same time.
Being assigned
to do these
projects forced
us to go out of
any comfort
zone
we might have
and explore the
arts in a way that
most of us never
have before.
76
I think that one of the things well take from this course is the bond we have
shared as a class, going all together to big performances, venturing with small groups to
different sites, and even going to visit the arts on our own time for fun. This course has
allowed us to respond to the art around us as well as many memories with the class.
We all seem to have gotten something out of the things we have attended. We
refined our acting skills using the script of Spring Awakening. We got a taste of the very
sophisticated Opera, along with its agitated audience members. Many united over the
confusion of Hotel Cassiopeia and the issue of What is real?, and Juniors! We united even
more over the horrible seating during the American
Ballet Theatre performance.
From Davids uncultured, to
Sameemas interesting, and
even to Johns Betsy; this
class has been connected
through the arts. Weve
learned from each other and
discovered many new things
together and all I can say is
that I am proud and happy to
be a part of this class.
Thanks CHC Class of 11.
77
My Arts My Arts
I feel cultured.
- David
American Ballet
MoMa
Playbills!
Electra
BAM - Cheesecake
Opera
September 12
Pasha
Guggenheim
By: Samema Sarowar
78
Our Experience Our Experience
September 15 September 12 (Nuyorican
Poets Caf)
Yea I know, it looks like a place that I
can get raped and killed and no one will
notice. I dont feel that culturally
inclined.
September 17 Julliard School of Music
They were inspirational and the talent
was overwhelming. The violist was
playing with so much fervor that he kept
getting off his seat. The cellist actually
swayed along with her cello while she
continuously tapped her feet. They were
so good that I actually forgot that there
was a piano playing in the background.
September 29 Pasha Dance Company (La
Guardia Community College Theatre)
The first dancer moves in slow motion
and points to the second dancer and then
the second dancer moves into another
completely different position than the
first dancer and points to the third
dancer. The dancers were so elegant. I
felt so moved by them.
October 2 Le Nozze di Figaro
(Metropolitan Opera)
Well I have never been to an opera
before so I did not really know what to
except. I have to say that my vision of
the opera was a fat lady in a puffy dress
singing in a high pitch so that
champagne glass can break. But to my
surprise I have to say that the acting
exceeded my expectations. Because from
experience I can say singers are not good
actors and visa versa. And this is quite
unusual when you have both.
October 4 Ifigena in Aulide (La MaMa)
Although that statement might not be
fully true because I did know this Greek
story from before. I have seen this
reenacted many times from different
angles. But this was truly an original
one. I have to say that I enjoyed it
despite its sudden turns.
October 10 Hotel Cassiopeia (Brooklyn
Academy of Music)
And this time I wont use my caution
words. At first I did not like how that
play ended and that was largely due to
my confusion but now as I write this
comment or interpretation I understand
the reason and the logic behind this
seemingly chaotic play. I think that I like
it more now that I have thought about it
thoroughly.
September 15 September 12 (Nuyorican
Poets Caf)
Yea I know, it looks like a place that I
can get raped and killed and no one will
notice. I dont feel that culturally
inclined.
September 17 Julliard School of Music
They were inspirational and the talent
was overwhelming. The violist was
playing with so much fervor that he kept
getting off his seat. The cellist actually
swayed along with her cello while she
continuously tapped her feet. They were
so good that I actually forgot that there
was a piano playing in the background.
September 29 Pasha Dance Company (La
Guardia Community College Theatre)
The first dancer moves in slow motion
and points to the second dancer and then
the second dancer moves into another
completely different position than the
first dancer and points to the third
dancer. The dancers were so elegant. I
felt so moved by them.
October 2 Le Nozze di Figaro
(Metropolitan Opera)
Well I have never been to an opera
before so I did not really know what to
except. I have to say that my vision of
the opera was a fat lady in a puffy dress
singing in a high pitch so that
champagne glass can break. But to my
surprise I have to say that the acting
exceeded my expectations. Because from
experience I can say singers are not good
actors and visa versa. And this is quite
unusual when you have both.
October 4 Ifigena in Aulide (La MaMa)
Although that statement might not be
fully true because I did know this Greek
story from before. I have seen this
reenacted many times from different
angles. But this was truly an original
one. I have to say that I enjoyed it
despite its sudden turns.
October 10 Hotel Cassiopeia (Brooklyn
Academy of Music)
And this time I wont use my caution
words. At first I did not like how that
play ended and that was largely due to
my confusion but now as I write this
comment or interpretation I understand
the reason and the logic behind this
seemingly chaotic play. I think that I like
it more now that I have thought about it
thoroughly.
October 11 Electra (New York City Center)
It was really intense. I felt Electras pain and sorrow when
she was clutching her brothers ashes. But what really
disturbed me is the last scene when she rejoices over her
dead mothers body. The audience was able to share in
her happiness but for a selfish reason.
October 24 American Ballet Theatre (New York City
Center)
The dancers were amazing. Their bodies were unnatural.
And what we watched on the tape is nothing compared to
what you can experience in real life. The third one was
hands down my favorite. I did not think that ballet can be
funny. But I was once again wrong. It reminded me of a
cartoon. It was like watching Popeye trying to get Olive
Oil. It was amusing and artistic. It was a fantastic way to
end off the evening.
November 7 Kara Walker (Whitney Museum)
The Kara Walker exhibit explored the themes or race and
forbidden sexuality. My Complement, My Enemy, My
Oppressor, My Love was created to leave a lasting
impression on the viewer. Out of all the stunning
replications of the antebellum South, the one that struck
me the most was not a painting but rather a video.
November 21 Richard Prince (Guggenheim Museum)
Well because I was so interested by the groups
presentation, I decided to check it out for myself. I went
on Friday with another class who also had to research the
exhibit in the Guggenheim. Seriously? This exhibit was
like a comedy on paper. The problem was that we had to
walk too much to get a good laugh. I liked it a lot. Im
glad that that group was so persuasive. It was original and
funny. And that is what a viewer truly values.
November 25 Martin Puryear (Museum of Modern Arts)
I have been to the MoMA before but usually for the
paintings and sculptures. I also know about the other
exhibits. Evans group presented on the Martin Puryear,
and this provided me a chance to see that also. I went
straight up to the third floor because I did not want to be
distracted by the more famous artworks that the MoMA
holds in its exhibits.
November 25 Photography, 2007 (Museum of Modern
Arts)
I think that some of the photos that were placed in this
exhibit were not about content but rather the quality. The
images were sharp and clear. Even if the photo itself did
not make any sense to me, it still had impeccable detail
and picture quality.
October 11 Electra (New York City Center)
It was really intense. I felt Electras pain and sorrow when
she was clutching her brothers ashes. But what really
disturbed me is the last scene when she rejoices over her
dead mothers body. The audience was able to share in
her happiness but for a selfish reason.
October 24 American Ballet Theatre (New York City
Center)
The dancers were amazing. Their bodies were unnatural.
And what we watched on the tape is nothing compared to
what you can experience in real life. The third one was
hands down my favorite. I did not think that ballet can be
funny. But I was once again wrong. It reminded me of a
cartoon. It was like watching Popeye trying to get Olive
Oil. It was amusing and artistic. It was a fantastic way to
end off the evening.
November 7 Kara Walker (Whitney Museum)
The Kara Walker exhibit explored the themes or race and
forbidden sexuality. My Complement, My Enemy, My
Oppressor, My Love was created to leave a lasting
impression on the viewer. Out of all the stunning
replications of the antebellum South, the one that struck
me the most was not a painting but rather a video.
November 21 Richard Prince (Guggenheim Museum)
Well because I was so interested by the groups
presentation, I decided to check it out for myself. I went
on Friday with another class who also had to research the
exhibit in the Guggenheim. Seriously? This exhibit was
like a comedy on paper. The problem was that we had to
walk too much to get a good laugh. I liked it a lot. Im
glad that that group was so persuasive. It was original and
funny. And that is what a viewer truly values.
November 25 Martin Puryear (Museum of Modern Arts)
I have been to the MoMA before but usually for the
paintings and sculptures. I also know about the other
exhibits. Evans group presented on the Martin Puryear,
and this provided me a chance to see that also. I went
straight up to the third floor because I did not want to be
distracted by the more famous artworks that the MoMA
holds in its exhibits.
November 25 Photography, 2007 (Museum of Modern
Arts)
I think that some of the photos that were placed in this
exhibit were not about content but rather the quality. The
images were sharp and clear. Even if the photo itself did
not make any sense to me, it still had impeccable detail
and picture quality.
79
The Arts in New York City
taught me above all how
much the city has to offer in
all mediums of art. People
assume of the huge city that
there is no room for someone to
plant musical acorns for
someone to find as a ticket to a
performance, but this photo I
took in Central Park proved
different. The fact thousands
must have walked by these
untouched. To me it is a clear
symbol of how the arts are all
there for us in the city
to find, but most ignore it and it is left for just a small percentage of New Yorkers to discover.
I knew the city had the Met, MoMa, Lincoln Center and the Opera, but what impressed me
most were the smaller institutions and lesser known artists working and being exhibited in the
city that have just as much to say. Something I really took from the class was that the city was
truly ours. (Despite the Cultural Passport saving $10 here and there), we were told about how
to get rush tickets, special student fares that left no excuse for us not to be seeing something
every week.
Unfortunately, time stuck
in the classroom was
inevitable, but we
made the most of this by
discussing past and future
outings, helping us to
better understand what
we were exposed to.
Some brief history and
exercises helped give
context to what we were
talking about.
80
Though we might not have all agreed with some of the performances and exhibitions, I know
we all enjoyed getting out and seeing what the city has to offer. I know that I made several
friends in the class through having shared so many memories in such a short space of time.
The course was a great beginning to both my college years, and my years in New York City,
and I know many things from the class will stay with me as I carry on. I have also heard that
this is easily the most enjoyable CHC seminar, so I am glad I made the best of it.
Not just seeing already
established professional
performances, we were
lucky enough to act and
speak ourselves. For me,
this was tricky, but luckily
it was more important in
how we approached the
challenge and our effort,
not our acting and/or
singing skills. Through this
we were almost forced to
bond as a class, but it
worked for the best and we
can all look back on Evan
as a German mother, or
Farah as a coat hanger.
-Billy Schaefer
81
This Is War!
American Ballet Theatre
Alfred Kinsey: A Love Story
Le Nozze de Figaro
Hotel Casseopeia
Photography 2007
La MaMa
Eugene ONeill Theater
Tango Connection
Christopher Wheeldon Dance Co.
59 E. 59
Miller Theater
Nuyorican Poets Cafe
B.A.M.
Atlantic Theater Company
Family Tree Collective
Firefly Theatre
Gardzienice
Julliard String Quartet
National Theatre of Greece
Pasha Dance Co.
RadioTheatre
Roundabout Theatre Company
SITI Company
American Airlines Theatre
Avery Fisher Hall
La Guardia Community College Theatre
Julliard School of Music
The Metropolitan Opera
Lincoln Center
Public Theater
Skirball Center
Asia Society
Zhang Huan
International Center of Photography
Morgan Library and Museum
MoMa
Passerby Gallery
Whitney Museum
this is my new york
-emily tabolt 82
Earlier in the year, each of us expressed at least one concern about delving
into the arts of New York City. Some feared that they would not be accepted
into the realm of the wealthy and cultured at the opera. Some were scared
that they would try to find the greater meaning in contemporary art and
simply not see the significance. Some, like myself, were afraid of not
knowing where to look for the best theater and the best art of New York City,
off-Broadway and out of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The idea of
venturing into the unknown and out of a particular place of comfort is
daunting, but not impossible. If I have learned anything in the previous
months, it is that this city is not a place to take for granted. It is not simply a
place to get an education, to work, or to live in but never really experience.
Rather, New York City is a place to absorb oneself, a place that never
closes doors but continually opens windows. In terms of the Arts, Manhattan
especially is filled to the brim with accomplished artists, hopeful performers,
and artistic revolutionaries. But Manhattan is not simply filled with art, but
rather in many ways it is art. This class has opened my eyes to a world
outside my own, a place that I had always imagined existed but never knew
I could have for myself. Now, I am not afraid of the unknown, but rather I
fear living in ignorance to what beauty is all around me but I never before
stopped to appreciate.
83
Curtain Call
Happy New Year From the Cl ass of 2011!
And they lived happily
ever afteryeah right.
The End
84
Words of Gratitude
The Arts of New York City class of 2007 would like
to thank the Macaulay Honors College for providing
us with this course.
Also thanks to Robin, Margie, Lee, and Jo for their
continued support.
To our families, friends and classmates, thank you for
putting up with our detailed projects and late night
shows.
To our tech fellow Lindsey Freer, thank you for
helping us with all our MacBook and project needs.
And last but especially not least: Professor Drabik, we
couldnt do this without you. Thanks for your constant
optimism, exuberance, and joyful spirit.
85
Although the students took a majority of the photography in this booklet,
several of the photos were accessed on the Internet from various web
pages.
The following is a compilation of these resources:
http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2007/11/01/arts/1102-PURY_5.html
http://www.artchive.com/artchive/C/cornell/pharmacy.jpg.html
http://www.artchive.com/artchive/C/cornell/hoteledn.jpg.html
http://www.worldmusicinstitute.org/event.php?id=608
http://learn.walkerart.org/karawalker/Main/TechniquesAndMedia?actio
n=dispimg&im=angrysurface_lge.p.jpg
http://www.metmuseum.org/
http://www.guggenheim.org/exhibitions/index.shtml
http://www.nuyorican.org/
http://z.about.com/d/classicalmusic/1/0/v/averyfisherhall.jpg
http://www.theatermania.com/images/theater/000882theater.jpg
http://tang.skidmore.edu/documents/images/h-
n/kara_walker_002_lg.jpg
http://www.vindaugagallery.com/wp-
content/uploads/2007/10/stanislaw_witkiewicz.jpg
http://www.douglemoine.com/wp-content/uploads/foto.jpg
http://www.audiencerewards.com/images/shows/s_modernitycentraleu
rope_exh.jpg
http://www.destination360.com/north-america/us/new-
york/images/s/new-york-city.jpg
http://www.infovisual.info/06/080_en.html
http://thewinger.com/words/wp-
content/images/600/20070520_070515.JPG
http://images.encarta.msn.com/xrefmedia/sharemed/targets/images/ph
o/t039/T039528A.jpg
http://k43.pbase.com/v3/09/268309/1/51199875.22LincolnCntr97a17D
AD0.jpg
http://www.luxury-gadgets.com/images/moma-outside.jpg
86