A Banner Season on Broadway - See What's On Stage Now
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 1674
Idini Menzel becomes a tree hugger in RedwoodSince the streets of Scarsdale were quiet this week, we were able to take advantage of the lull to go to the city where we found Times Square flush with theater goers. We secured tickets to a few Broadways shows – and fortunately all were hits.
Here are just a few of the hits on Broadway now that you might enjoy:
For those who like musical theater we can recommend Old Friends, a revue of some of Stephen Sondheim’s most beloved songs from his decades of success. You can’t help but enjoy the songs from Company, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Gypsy, Sunday in the Park with George, Sweeney Todd and more. We were surprised to find out that Sondheim also wrote the lyrics to Leonard Bernstein’s score for West Side Story – so a few numbers from that show were included too.
And it’s not just the music. The fact that the music is performed by an all-star cast including Bernadette Peters, Lea Salonga and Gavin Lee makes it even more enjoyable.
See this Old Friend while it’s on stage at the Samuel J. Freidman Theater through June 15, 2025.
We were also lucky to get tickets to see megastar George Clooney in Good Night and Good Luck. Clooney plays newsman Edward R. Murrow in the age of Joseph McCarthy. The story line has an eerie resemblance to today’s assaults on the media and free speech. As McCarthy engages in a witch hunt, destroying everyone in his path, Murrow seeks to expose him for what he really is while appeasing CBS President Bill Paley who worries about the loss of show sponsors.
The Winter Garden is a huge theater, and you may not be able to catch some of the lines from the farther seats, but if you can score some tickets at a reasonable price, (we heard some paid $900!), you’ll be happy you got to see this history-making production.
Last we didn’t want to miss Idina Menzel in Redwood. She’s a big presence with a big voice and the staging of the production breaks new ground. In the play, Menzel plays a distressed, overwrought mother, who’s on the verge of a breakdown. She takes a cross-country drive and seeks solace in a redwood forest. The set revolves around the base of a magnificent redwood tree and the entire stage becomes a panoramic screen for the projection of the forest, the tree canopy and the sky above. Sitting in the audience you are transported to the forest, surrounded by rustling branches, sunlight, changing weather systems and even a forest fire. The use of videography is stunning.
Menzel and the cast spent much of the performance suspended from climbing ropes, doing aerial gymnastics while singing their story. It’s unusual, enchanting and a reminder of how spending time in nature can help us get our feet back on the ground.
See it at the Nederlander Theater, now through August 17, 2025.
Doused in Color
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 1198
Cold temps, cloudy skies and drizzle didn’t dampen the spirits of 150 runners who participated in the third annual Color Run at Greenacres School on Saturday April 5, 2025.
This was no ordinary run. As the participants took their one-mile loop around the field they were doused in color chalk at every zone. By the time they crossed under the balloon arch at the end of the route they were covered in a rainbow of chalk powder, making a beautiful tableau.
Kids ran in three waves from 10 am to 12:15 pm and jumped in glee as they were showered with chalk. Organizer and Greenacres mom Alison Milam explained that the chalk is “non-toxic, eco-friendly, FDA approved, food-grade, washable dye sourced from a very reputable company called Kulture Khazana.”
Contributing to the event was a live band from School of Rock in White Plains featuring local kids: Jaxson Pauker (a GA alum!), Adam Katz, Henry Maass, Jyoti (“Joey”) Rustogi and Lily Gordon. Food was available from the Westchester Burger Company food truck.
And thanks go to Ronique Segree, mom to Zavier (4th grade) and Zahir (kindergarten) who constructed a full 10x10 balloon arch on site for the finish line.
Hoff-Barthelson Music School Announces Spring Orchestra and Chamber Music Auditions on May 4, 2025
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 1097
Hoff-Barthelson Music School is thrilled to invite young musicians to audition for its highly regarded Orchestral and Chamber Music Programs on Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 9:00-1:00 pm. These programs offer students invaluable opportunities to develop their ensemble skills, refine their musicianship, and perform in a supportive yet challenging environment. Participation in these ensembles fosters discipline, collaboration, and a deeper appreciation for the art of making music together.
Orchestral Program: A Pathway to Musical Excellence
Hoff-Barthelson’s Orchestra Program provides an enriching experience for students at various skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Led by accomplished conductors and dedicated faculty, the program nurtures young musicians by exposing them to diverse orchestral literature, honing their technical abilities, and instilling a strong sense of musical artistry.
"Playing in an orchestra is a transformative experience," said Leandro Gazineo, Director of the Orchestra Program. "It challenges students to listen, lead, and grow as musicians while being part of something greater than themselves."
The program features multiple ensembles tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that each student is placed in an environment that supports their growth. Through intensive rehearsals and inspiring performances, students gain confidence, discipline, and a deeper understanding of orchestral music.
Chamber Music Program: Small Ensembles, Big Impact
The Chamber Music Program at Hoff-Barthelson offers students the unique opportunity to perform in small ensembles, where communication, teamwork, and individual responsibility are key. Under the expert guidance of experienced faculty members, students explore a rich repertoire that strengthens their interpretative skills and technical precision.
"Chamber music is one of the most rewarding ways to make music," said Laura Giannini, Program Director. "It teaches students how to listen deeply, respond intuitively, and truly collaborate with their peers in a way that builds musicianship and lifelong friendships."
Designed for string, woodwind, brass, and piano students, as well as vocalists, the Chamber Music Program allows participants to engage with like-minded musicians and experience the joy of making music in an intimate setting.
Who Should Audition?
Auditions are open to dedicated students interested in joining an orchestra or chamber ensemble for the 2025-26 academic year. Musicians of all levels are encouraged to apply, as placement is determined based on skill level and experience.
Audition Requirements and Registration
For complete audition guidelines and to register, visit www.hbms.org or contact the school at (914) 723-1169.
Don't miss the chance to be part of Hoff-Barthelson’s vibrant ensemble programs! This is an opportunity for young musicians to challenge themselves, connect with peers, and take their artistry to the next level. Register today and embark on an inspiring musical journey!
About Hoff-Barthelson Music School
Hoff-Barthelson Music School, based in Scarsdale, NY, has earned national recognition as a premier community music school, known for its outstanding leadership in education, performance, and community service. With a faculty drawn from the region’s most talented teachers and performers, the School has long been one of Westchester County’s most cherished cultural resources. At Hoff-Barthelson, students find a warm, friendly music school dedicated to the highest standards of education, performance, and community service. Students of all ages, aptitudes, and levels of interest enjoy a supportive, joyful learning environment; a focus on the whole person; exceptional teaching; and a multifaceted curriculum.
Photo credit: Hoff-Barthelson’s Festival Orchestra led by Maestro Leandro Gazineo. Photographed by Mickey Riad.
Historical Society Uncovers the History of Suffragist Josephine Valentine Winslow
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 1941
Josphine Valentine Winslow: Photo Source: The Newsom FamilyLeslie Chang, a Trustee of the Scarsdale Historical Society is in the midst of researching a series called Women Rising: The Scarsdale Suffragists. She agreed to share this fascinating story of Josephine Valentine Winslow.
According to Chang, Josephine, aka Mrs. Willard Winslow was the daughter of a New York City merchant and woolen manufacturer. She moved to Scarsdale in 1903 with her husband Willard, a lumber importer and wholesaler. In 1905, they had their daughter Julia Valentine Winslow (Newsom). Robert and his brother Jon are her sons.
In comparison to her dear friend and suffrage leader Florence Bethel who thrived in the spotlight, Josephine was the business backbone of many of Scarsdale’s early enterprises. For example, most of the actual handwritten notes in the Scarsdale Equal Suffrage Club minutes book are in Josephine’s meticulous script. She was also a charter member of the Scarsdale Woman’s Club, one of first female commissioners of the Westchester County Park Commission, the purchasing agent of supplies for Westchester County Government during WWI, office manager of the Scarsdale Community Farm during WWI, a trustee of the Scarsdale School District (1919-1922) and the Secretary of the Supreme Council of the Girl Scouts of Westchester County.
Chang then sought to find some photos of Josephine and figured out the names of her living relatives, one who was a professor with a published email address. Within three hours of emailing Robert W. Newsom at University of California, Irvine, Chang received an album of jaw-dropping photos.
Chang says, “After reading about her tireless civic work in early Scarsdale, it was a thrill to see Josphine’s face for the first time. The younger photos pre-date her time in Scarsdale, but they are a stunning visual record of her life.”
Josephine with Daughter Julia Winslow and Mother-Law Elizabeth Ryers Winslow, Date 1910. Like taken in Scarsdale. Photo Source: The Newsom Family.
Sadly, Josephine passed away suddenly of pneumonia at 55. Florence Bethell was quoted in the newspaper as saying, “Much of all the glory that is ours in Scarsdale is due to her quiet, modest, self-effacing work.” Thirty-one crabapple trees at the Scarsdale Woman’s Club were planted in memory of her untimely death. We hear that some are still thriving on the club grounds by Drake Road and will watch for them to blossom this spring.
Here are just a few of the photos Chang located. See more on the Scarsdale Historical Society website here:
(Republished with permission from the Scarsdale Historical Society)
Winslow House on School Lane: Photo Source: The Winslow Family
M&W March Madness Fundraiser: You're Invited
- Details
- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
- Hits: 1058
Maroon and White invites you to come out and support Scarsdale athletes at Maroon & White’s FIRST EVER Spring Fundraiser.
Kickoff March Madness with Scarsdale's Maroon and White Booster Club and cheer on your favorites with 16 NCAA games on March 20th!
We keep it local at Scarsdale Golf Club on Thursday, March 20th @ 6:30p. Come mingle, watch the games and enjoy drinks at the open bar accompanied by lite bites.
Elementary, Middle and High School parents, this will be a great opportunity to meet other parents, learn more about Scarsdale High School sports and the Maroon & White Booster Club.
Less than a week left for Early Bird Ticket Pricing - $150 until Monday, March 10th, $175 after that date.
