By Tracy Zwick
Indoors and out, there’s plenty to do in and around the neighborhood this weekend. See a movie, paddle the Hudson in a rented kayak, and/or enjoy an adaption of the myth of Oedipus at the amphitheater on Little Island.
Let’s weekend!
July 18th to July 20th
The Gospel at Colonus: Little Island, Friday through Sunday at 8:30 p.m.; tickets start at $10
This 90-minute theatrical show, a revival of Lee Breuer’s and Bob Telson’s adaptation of the myth of Oedipus, has been lavished with praise. The New York Times called it “musically galvanic and ecstatic” with inspired casting, a “gorgeous choir in full voice and an on-point orchestra complete with an organ and a horn section.” It’s helmed by director and Pulitzer Prize-finalist Shayok Misha Chowdhury. I’m eager to check it out at the Amph at Little Island, just off the West Side Highway not far from the Whitney Museum downtown.
”Superman,” “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight,” and New York Asian Film Festival: “Superman” is at AMC Lincoln Square 13 and elsewhere; “Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight” and NY Asian Film Festival are at Film at Lincoln Center. Times and tickets here.
If it’s too hot outdoors, enjoy the air conditioning, the big screen and some popcorn as I did last week when I saw the new, irresistible “Superman” in an IMAX theater with my daughter. Though it’s got a political subtext, it’s an escape – upbeat and fun, and it moves at a quick pace.
“Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight” is actor-turned-filmaker Embeth Davidtz’s directorial and screenwriting debut. An adaption of Alexandra Fuller’s memoir by the same name, it’s set in the waning days of white colonial rule in 1980 Rhodesia. It’s been on my “to see” list since I caught a trailer for it a few months ago.
And there’s the ongoing NY Asian Film Festival at Lincoln Center. “Bad Shabbos” is back at beloved local New Plaza Cinema too!
Kayak in the Hudson: Pier 84 Boathouse, Hudson River Park at West 44th Street. Reservations recommended. Kayak rentals start at $12
Cool off in the Hudson. Rent a kayak or paddleboard in Midtown near the Intrepid Museum with friends, alone, with kids or with your dog! Beginners are welcome and classes as well as private lessons are available. There are guided loops on offer, including a guided skyline kayak trip, and a private river trip that boasts skyline views of the Empire State Building, Times Square, Hudson Yards and more.
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Manhattan Community Boathouse offers free kayaking at Pier 96 (at 56th st) on the Hudson in Riverside Park. Open Saturday and Sunday from 1:00-6:00. Last admission at 5:30. We have singles and doubles. Participants must be 18 or older and know how to swim or under 18 must be accompanied by a o parent or legal guardian to participate. Minors over 50 pounds must know how to swim. Paddlers under 16 must share a kayak with an adult. A maximum of 2 paddlers in one kayak. Complete a waiver and paddle for free.
Thanks for the information..! Fabulous! .. I think they have kayaking during the week also.. It would be so great to do this… I always imagined one would have to wait forever to be able to book a boat though perhaps not!