Back to school!

Let's all go back to school!!! For all of you that miss the good old school days, it looks like your luck is in...School disco is the night club that allows you to relive your youth..

With a strict dress code set by the head-master you have no choice but to get that mini skirt out along with your shirt and tie and release the rebel in you! But remeber the head master has his evil eye on you!

Think it isn't fair? Well life isn't fair - Now go do your homework!!... I must say when I went is was one of the best school discos I have ever been to.. With alcohol, your girlies, and old school music that had you singing along all through the night and best of all there was no curfew...What a night!!!

So be young, be fun and go to the school disco on every Saturday night at the Forum... Be there or be SQUARE!!!!

Little Shop of Horrors- plants on world domination!

The hit musical finally comes back to London! Little Shop of Horrors is the classic story of a nervous flower shop owner named Seymour who buys a weird looking plant for his store. However, the plant is a bit special- it offers Seymour fame and fortune in exachange for flesh. And that's when things start to go wrong.

As this show has just opened, there are not a lot of reviews out there on the interweb for it. Especially for this new London show as there are many versions out there at the moment. But with a cast including famous British talent Csuch as Alistair McGowan, Mike McShane and Sheridan Smith, why would you not want to see this musical classic?

Come see this play in the Duke of York Theatre in London! Tickets are avaliable for online booking.

Preview new designers at Bendel's

My blogs so far have focussed on menswear, so i thought I'd cover something for the ladies out there. What better way to start then telling you about a preview event at Henri Bendel in New York, Fifth Avenue.

For those of you in England who perhaps may not be as familiar with the store, Henri Bendel is an upmarket chic women's clothes shop. Bendel's has established a reputation for encouraging up and coming designers.

Twice a year they host an "open see" event, at which customers can personally review their latest merchandise, the range is vast - from fashion accessories to lingerie.

It's on a first come first seen basis, no appointments needed; so if you fancy a piece of New York glamour then head to their store on the 16th of April.

You can find Henri Bendel on 712 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY10019.

Tarzan- the musical!

Yup, it's another musical, but this is so amazing that I just had to talk about it. Plus, you can only see it in New York and not London!

Tarzan is basically a stage adaptation of the Disney film with the Oscar winning music from Phil Collins. The tale of the young man raised by Gorrilas in the jungle and falling in love with the prim and proper Jane is brought to life by an energetic cast doing amazing feats on stage.

The reviews have been mixed. But the most balanced has to be this one from USA Today who gave it three out of four stars.

If you are looking for something a bit light hearted, fun and (for the stunts) breathtaking, I recommend that you see this show. Find out more information on the show and how to book here.

wakey wakey

wakey wakey rise and shine it's brunchfast time!

If you’re feeling like me today, you’ll be wanting a top-notch brunch.

Get you tired behind up to Norma's on west 57th street. The happiest place to nurse your hangover, where you can enjoy rich roast coffee straight from the grinder.

If you’re feeling peckish try their mango and papaya crepes or even a seared rock lobster omelette?

Set inside ' Le Parker Meridian', Norma's is one of the best places in NYC for brunch, open till 3 you can waste away your day, enjoy fine food with excellent service.

Don't try walking in here in your pyjamas though, a nice shirt and good shoes will suffice for its casual yet professional atmosphere.

A completely over the top experience that all NYLONers should experience once. This is no greasy spoon 'caf' but very expensive, and very indulgent hangover cure.

Find it at: 118 West 57th Street New York,

Reserve a table on: 212.708.7460.

'The Galapagos Project' - Julie Saul Gallery

'The Galapagos Project' is an exhibition of work by Sarah Anne Johnson on display at the Julie Saul Gallery. The work itself comprises of photographs, drawings and sculptures.

'The Galapagos Project' addresses the romantacised 'Eden' image that most people have of the Galapagos, and presents the poverty and the struggle of its people.

The concept is thought-provoking, but the photographs seem somewhat sanatised and distanced. Johnson's depictions of the people can come across as condescending, and without the historic background of the Galapagos, the exhibition presents nothing new.

The composition of the images is somewhat twee and cliched, though technically sound. The images themselves are pleasant, and if you are unfamiliar with this type of photography it's worth a look. However, poverty is a subject that has been covered extensively, and there are more intense works to see.

'The Galapagos Project' is running from February 16 - March 24

Julie Saul Gallery

535 West 22nd Street

6th Floor

New York, NY 10011

tel: 212-627-2410

email: mail@saulgallery.com

'Through the Eyes of Shigeru Ban' - The Barbican

'Through the Eyes of Shigeru Ban' is an exhibition at The Barbican, curated by Shigeru Ban, looking at the work of the Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto, who designed not just buildings, but interiors, including glassware, fittings, and textiles.

Alvar Aalto is heralded as one of the masters of modernism, and the title is a fitting one. The exhibition features photographs, drawings, models and artefacts from 14 of Alvar Aalto's key projects. The work itself is fascinating; Aalto's designs fluid and unique.

'Through the Eyes of Shigeru Ban' is running from 22 February - 13 May

Barbican Art Gallery

Barbican Centre

Silk Street

London

EC2Y 8DS

tel: 020 7638 8891

email: tickets@barbican.org.uk

Sweets for my Sweets

Are you looking for traditional English cooking?

Look no further than Sweetings on Queen Victoria Street, envisage a saucer with your tea, white table clothes and proper china.

Traditional is the aim of the game here; you’ll find an excellent fish menu and Posh French wine is almost expected.

A debatably traditional interior, you'll either love it or want to run out screaming. Again the food is very old world, with spotted dick and jam roll for dessert... Yummy.

A serious fish menu is the high point of its menu, beautiful turbot and West mersea oysters will have you salivating all over the menu!

If you want real British culture try the 'Black velvet' served in a tankard, (that’s Guinness and champagne to you new Yorkers).

You can’t deny this place is original and definitely a dying breed of dining, while being moderately expensive the serving will make you think you’re the Prince of Wales, don’t try jeans and trainers here!

Find it at: 39 Queen Victoria Street, EC4N 4SA

You cant reserve at table, but call on: 020 7248 3062

Some where over the rainbow....

The Rainbow Room is a swanky, sophisticated dinner and dance venue that offers you the chance to salsa through the night to a live band orchestra.
What better way is there to spend your Friday or Saturday night then to spend it at the The Rainbow Room gliding around the dance floor in the centre of the dining room?
With music varying from the traditonal ball-room-style dance to swing, tango and Latin and a three course meal from the Northern Italian cuisine put together by a top Italian chief, you really can live the fairy tale life many can only dream of...
And the fairy God-mother has really added an extra sprinkle of fairys dust for all of those that visit The Rainbow Room by giving you the opportunity to overlook the North, South and East of Manhattan for that extra touch of unforgettable romance that you will never forget..
So why not wish upon a star and book your magical night at The Rainbow room! Although it does seem extremely pricey I can't imagine anyother night out being better than the one in every girl's dream...So believe it or not it, is worth travelling there and it's definitely worth the cash...

Avenue Q- A childhood memory gone adult

Okay it's another musical... but it's one with a difference. When you think of Sesame Street you think of that warm and loving neighbourhood in Manhattan, New York with some of your favourite muppets, including Elmo and Big Bird. When you think of South Park, images of foul mouthed children come to mind and situations you can't believe they air on TV. Now combine the two. Think it's impossible? Welcome to the world of Avenue Q.

This show is definately NOT for kids which you will be thankful for after a long day at work, not having to hear children making noise in the row in front of you. Apart from the show itself, the only noise you will be hearing is the sound of laughter at the madness of it all.

An extensive review from Nowt2do.co.uk called Avenue Q "the must-see show in London this year." If you are up for something a bit different, or you just want to see how a British cast handle the show, why not head down to the Noel Coward Theatre in London? You can book tickets online here.

Rule Britannia

Feeling home sick?

Well thank your lucky stars as Alchemy in Brooklyn has the answer.

This traditional British and Irish pub will make you feel right at home. Serving the obligatory stew and dumplings and fish ‘n’ chips.

Kitted out with rough brick walls, dark beams and vintage furnishings it is inspired by the old fashioned British pub.

But don’t be fooled by good décor, a reproduction is exactly what it is; even the head chef is American.

This 48-seater pub, will win you over with its Bistro style service and atmosphere. Unlike many restaurants in the big apple, all food is locally sourced, organic and free range.

You couldn’t ask for more. But don’t let its winning atmosphere make you feel too much at home, kick off your shoes and undo your tie. While still being moderately priced, it has a business style dress code.

For you New Yorkers quivering over the idea of rabbit stew and warm beer, give it a try, believe me its not that bad.

And to all Brits in NYC, come here, have a cup of earl grey…

Sit back, close your eyes and think of England!

Find it at: 56 Fifth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11217

Reserve a table on: (718) 636-4385.

A shopping spree at Brown's

Browns is a great set of boutiques in London, providing the latest trends for fashionistas of both sexes.

The store started off as a small boutique in the 70’s created by Joan Burstein. But has since spread out to five sites in London, three of the best stores all next door to each other in South Molten street.

Browns provides a boutique dedicated solely to menswear, which being a man myself I obviously took the most interest in.

With over 50 designers on offer Browns men has become one of the must visit places in London.

Here's a look at some of the clothes they have on offer, from established designers such as Dior Homme and Alexander Mcqueen.

Cotton Trench coat by Dior Homme.
Satin side striped trousers by Alexander Mcqueen.

And also more contemporary menswear like Raf Simons, I love these pieces - have a look.

Silver shirt by Raf Simons.
Sleeveless t-shirt by Raf Simons.

These clothes may seem a bit garish on first look, but i like the individuality of the pieces and if you can pull off the look then why the hell not that’s what I say.

With all designer clothes the only downfall is the price tag, so if you’re credit card is maxed out like mine at the moment; Browns also have an outlet store called “Browns labels for less” which have some great clothes at discounted prices – sounds good to me.

Take a look at their website for more information, Brownsfashion.

Their address is…

23 - 27 South Molton Street
London
W1K 5RD

Funky Buddha...

Funky Buddha is a club situated in the heart of Mayfair, especially known for it's unique and innovative clubbing experience.

Don't let the name throw you off girls and boys because I can guarentee you this club is what saturday nights are all about! Loud music , lots of alcholol (for what I would say is considerably cheap) and plenty of people to dance, chat and have a whale (or shall I say 'buddha') of a time with...
The club also has it's own caged off private room for all you people looking to spend more intimate time with the 'hotty' you just chatted up!

With the dress code requesting you to wear anything smart and casual there is no excuse what so ever for you not to be showing off your moves on the dance floor to the R & B and funky house music from 10pm all the way through till 3am!

You can even book yourself in to be on the guestlist or hold your own birthday party there, that way you can definately ensure that you'll be there and not miss out on the fun...
Funky Buddha is FANTASTIC!!! If you don't beleive me why not take a look at their reviews yourself (see reviews)

Wicked- A different take on the Wizard of Oz story

This is my second post on a musical, but this one is also justified as it is the winner of three prestigious Tony Awards (that's the theatre version of the Oscars)

Wicked is based on the novel of the same name by Gregory Macguire and is about the relationship between the two witches in Oz- The Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch- following them through their childhood and seeing how their relationship changes throughout time up to the point where Dorothy drops in.

The musical has been a massive success in New York, even with quite a bit of negative reviews from the NYC press, saying that it lacks a lot of depth (take this article from NY1 for example) but is a fun story with singing and dancing and memorable songs and characters meant to have any depth when it's just meant for a good night out?

If you want to make that decision for yourself and check out this musical with a difference, go onto Broadway.com and book your tickets on there. (Wicked is in the New York Gershwin Theatre)

'Family Pictures' - The Guggenheim

'Family Pictures' is an exhibition of photographs drawn from The Guggenheim's permanent collection.

The work of 16 prominent photographers is on display, so although you won't find a running style through the exhibition, you'll be hard pressed to not find something you like.

For photography lovers, this exhibition is a must. With the work of photographers of such a high caliber, Nan Goldin and Robert Mapplethorpe to name just two, even if you don't like the work, at least you can say you've seen it. An analysis of some of the work can be found in the Village Voice review.

'Family Pictures' runs from February 9 - April 16

Solomon R Guggenheim Museum
1071 Fifth Avenue (at 89th Street)
New York, NY 10128-0173
Sat-Wed 10am - 5:45pm
Fri 10am - 7:45pm
Closed Thurs
212 423 3500

Cream of the Crop!

Star nightclub in New York also known as 'Cream' sounds mighty tasty to me.. The club which has three rooms each with it's own theme is known in NY as the quintessential hip-hop hotspot!

'Cream' gives you the oppurtunity to be greedy and have a taste of all the flavours they have on offer! You have the choice to enter the main room which I believe is the room to visit if you are looking to dance the night away, with it's opulent Victorian dector, who wouldn't consider grooving on the spacious dance floor?

Of course if this doesn't tinggle your taste buds you always have the choice to visit the Red room or the winter wonderland room, which both offer you the chance to relax and enjoy your bottle service in there beautiful themed surroundings!

I know this all sounds slightly extravagent (especially for those used to the typical London clubs) but hey why not go all out and experience new things?
Like they say you only live once!!

So if your looking for a good night out head to Star 246 Columbus Ave. (bet. 71st. & 72nd. Sts.) New York, NY

Pio Pio

Looking for something a little special?

Try the Pio Pio salon, The chain has opened another peruvian resteraunt on Amsterdam ave.

Cheap and cheerful, $27.00 will feed a ravesome table of 4.

this lively, fun and colourful place does good food, for cheap prices.

So if you feel like slumming it, dropping sauce all over your suit and drinking far too much wine Go to pio Pio.

While this new Pio Pio is a little more refined, all the great aspects from the chain are there.

This is a great south american delight, toasted bannanas and classic pervuvian sauces give a kick to the food, while the relaxed atmosphere lets you dig in wityhout worrying if you are using the right fork!

Try the rotissery chicken, tostones, or ceviche for some finger licken fun.

Find it at: 702 Amsterdam Ave., 10025 at 94th St.

Reserve a table on: 212-665-3000

These boots are made for buying

John Lobb is one of the finest and most famous boot makers in London. Established in Victorian times they provide traditional shoes handmade to the finest quality. The only stickler is that the prices are in the thousands.

You may be thinking: “Why should I spend more than £100 on a pair of shoes, let alone £1000?” That’s fine, I realise it’s highly unlikely that most men would get as excited about buying shoes as women would over a pair of Jimmy Choos, for example. However if you want a quality crafted, handmade pair of shoes in lavish materials such as buckskin, satin calf and ostrich leathers, John lobb is your man.

So if cost is no issue then it really is worth the investment, it’s a simple equation really - the more expensive the shoe the longer they'll last and the better the quality; in this case definitely. And even if you choose not to buy anything, the shop in itself is an experience. Have a look for yourself here.

You can find John Lobb at…

9 St. James's Street
London
SW1A 1EF

Telephone no.

+44 20 7930 3664/5

Email: enquiries@johnlobbltd.co.uk

'Kylie'- The V&A

'Kylie' is on display at The V&A, and features Kylie Minogue's costumes, photographs, and general memorabilia from Kylie's career. The exhibition is made possible by Kylie's donations and has attracted huge audiences.

However, the exhibition has drawn criticism based on its presentation of a mainstream celebrity as art (The Observer Review). It has been said that the exhibition is designed not to appeal to 'art lovers', but fans and 'celeb worshippers'.

Personally, I think if you're a fan, you're bound to find something you like at 'Kylie - The Exhibition'. If you're not, I'd steer well clear.

The V&A is in South Kensington, on Cromwell Road, London, SWL 2RL
tel: +44 (0)20 7942 2000
email: pdp@vam.ac.uk

Hammons 'New Works' - L&M Arts

David Hammons is a veteran artist, and at 63 has produced high quality work for years. His most recent installation is at L&M Arts.

When you enter the gallery, you are confronted by the front viewing space... which is empty. In the next room are 5 fur coats. Upstairs is a single coat on its own. The coats themselves have been burned, stained, painted, and from a consumer point of view, written off.

The simplicity of the exhibition, coupled with the opulence of the coats and their subsequent 'destruction', provides a strong and emotive display. The installation questions consumer culture and the use of fur in the fashion industry, and so far has been well received (Village Voice Review)

Hammons work is on display till March 10.

L&M Arts is at 45 East 78th Street, New York
email: info@lmgallery.com
tel: 212-861-0020

a very posh take away

Be warned: this will ruin your idea of a good Cantonese FOREVER!

The Royal China Club, one of the most renowned establishments for oriental cuisine has opened yet another set of doors in Baker Street.

Known for its soul crushing prices and AMAZING Dim Sum, Royal China restaurants have a serious following.

The Cantonese equivalent to the Ivy in Covent Garden, you can expect queues round the block for this exceptional grub.

This is anything but your average take away, gleaming service, beautiful presentation and above all, an experience you will never forget.

To say the least, a very sexy dining experience, expect black satin and leather. Not for the faint hearted, a meal can average up to £200.

But hay, if you feel like a full blown meal is too much hassle... call them for a take away!

Expect a long wait, moths in your wallet till next payday, but a very big smile on your face.

Find it at: 40-42 Baker street
Reserve a table (weekdays only) on: 020 7486 3898

Billy Elliot- a musical masterpiece

There are many film-to-musical productions out in the London theatre circuit today, but only a few have been great successes.

Today I am recommending Billy Elliot, based on the film with the same name about a young boy living in an 1980's mining town going against all stereotypes and finding joy in ballet dancing.

Broadwayworld.com believes that this musical in an example of "how to do musical theatre and succeed" and The Stage notes that even though, at three hours, the show is notacibly longer than the film but they have made it more "emotionally penetrating and resonant".

Visit London are offering a hotel and show pakage on their site. If you don't want to do that and just want to see the show after a busy working day, then Billy Elliot is now showing at the Victoria Palace Theatre. (Nearest Tube station: Victoria)

Sunday's the London way!

If you think that your Sunday nights in London are going to be boring as your 8 hour flight from New York to London, then have I got news for you!!

Faces nightclub is the place to be every Sunday night if you want a Sunday to remember..

It offers you a fine selection of music varying from R n'B, funky house and hip hop plus much much more, and if you are not star stricken from the famous DJ's on set, then I guarantee you will once you bump into our soap celebs (you know what us brits are like with our soap operas).

Although I can't say I have been there before I know many people who have and believe me once they'd been there they couldnt help but visit it again and again...

If that's not encouraging enougth, then consider the fact that ladies will only pay £7 entry and men £10 for a night that I believe will be live and kicking! So let's all party the London way....

Party the Pacha way!!

Pacha is Manhattan's newest and hottest nightclub yet. With four floors (30,000 square feet) entertainment, space and a chance to boogie on down is not out of the question.

It's open Friday and Saturday nights with a cover that can creep to $30. We asked the Review Crew to rate their experiences. While some of Pacha's frequent clubbers claim its a club with no limitations others are happy to express their views on the over pricing of drinks plus the $7 charge for the use of their ATM ontop of the more than pricey $30 entry fee, oh and let's not forget about the horrid length of the queue (then again isn't that a good sign?).

But hey, despite all the moans and groans the club reviewers believe it is a must go! So why not put your glad rags on and check out the club that they claim will "have you partying like 1999 plus seven years"
(Click here to view more comments)

This Saturday night NYC invites you to the hottest night spot in New York!
Pacha presents to you Boris three-way this Saturday night 10pm till late @
PACHA NYC
618 W. 46th St.
New York, NY
10036

Special offers include:
BRING 2 GIRLS, & THEY GET IN FREE!*
* GROUPS OF 3 GIRLS ALSO GET IN FREE!!
(Valid 10PM-1AM) Now if that's not HOT what is?

Equus- Harry Potter Grows Up

Daniel Radcliffe sheds off his innocent boy wizard image and decides to show off another wand in his stage debut in the play Equus, which premiered in London on the 27th Feb.

The play opened to rave reviews from the public and critics alike. Charles Spencer from the Telegraph said he had shown himself as "a thrilling stage actor of unexpected range and depth" and Whatsonstage called his performance as "Tremendous".

Granted, the play is not intened to be a cheerful night out, as the plot centres around a stableboy's violent treatment of horses. However, if you want to see a very good looking adolecent doing something out of the norm, and in the buff too, why not book tickets for the Gielgud Theatre to see this play? I guess it's something to do whilst you're in London.

Spanish find

El Faro is a great find.
A little hole in the wall in Canary Wharf, tucked away behind Millwall inner dock, close to the London arena.

The northern Spanish cuisine is a breath of fresh air, no seafood paella or calamari here (thank god).

Very sensual, very exotic, HUGE steaks, what more could you ask for!
You'll need to take that belt buckle down a notch or two after a meal here; the portions are to say the least, a considerable size.

For such a little place, El Faro has a very huge wine list, quite scary really. You look to spend at least £70 for a good Rioja or Ribero, but without the wine the meal just isn’t complete.

Dig deep, a meal for two can cost around £180 without dessert, but this is definitely not a meal you should miss. YUM YUM.

Find it at: 3 Turnberry Way, Pepper street, London, E14 9RD
Reserve a table on: 020 7987 5511

'Delivered' - Sara Tecchia Gallery

'Delivered' is a solo exhibition by Duston Spear, featuring contemporary figurative representation. Spear's paintings are based on war photographs, originally printed in The New York Times, and reflect on the media's representation of war. As a result, the original images that appeared in the Times would not have been graphic, but the artist is given the option of making them graphic. Some of the paintings may have been given this treatment, but subtly.

For example, the painting of the adult leading the two children across a bloody floor. The original image in the Times is unlikely to have featured this graphic content, but the painting itself is subject to Spear's 2nd hand perspective and personal interpretation of the image.

The paintings themselves are emotive, yet simplistic. The images that would have been featured in the Times would have been compelling in themselves, but Spear has adjusted them, taking out distractions. The lack of complexity focuses the viewer's attention and asks them to interpret the paining for themselves.

'Delivered' is running from March 1 - April 7

SARA TECCHIA ROMA NEW YORK is located at 529 West 20th Street, between Tenth Avenue and Eleventh Avenue. The gallery is on the second floor. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm. For more information, contact 212-741-2900, or visit www.saratecchia.com