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- Patricia Buckley, in her solo play “Evolution.”
Merchants House unveils restored Irish Servants Quarters
The Merchant House Museum’s intimate glimpse of domestic life as lived from 1835-1865 is about to get a little more intimate, as they reopen their fourth floor Servants Quarters to the public for the first time since its extensive restoration began. In the first floor parlor, and in the second floor bedrooms, you can see the original furnishings and personal possessions of the wealthy Tredwells. But it’s the fourth floor that was home to the family’s ever-changing roster of Irish servants. Climb the narrow staircase and see how the other half lived (and did some of their work). In addition to substantial structural repairs, the Servants Quarters also underwent a comprehensive paint analysis — making it the first space in the house to be repainted in its authentic 1850s colors.
The Grand Reopening takes place Sat., March 17, from 12-5pm. At the Merchant’s House Museum (29 E. Fourth St., btw. Lafayette & Bowery). For info, call 212-777-1089 or visit merchantshouse.org. Regular Museum hours: 12-5pm (closed Tues. & Wed.). Admission: $10 ($5 for students/seniors).
That Beautiful Laugh
Director Orlando Pabotoy’s high-octane clown show was inspired by his five-year-old son’s philosophical musings on the nature of laughter (which were inspired by Pabotoy’s nightly routine of making up bedtime stories). “That Beautiful Laugh” (The Artigiani Troupe’s inaugural theatrical production) is a family-friendly tale of a world where laughter is forgotten and rediscovered. Expect rhythmically-driven comedy, clowning and original music — along with new renditions of old favorites. “Laugh” stars Alan Tudyk, who can be on the ABC television series “Suburgatory.” Musician Harrison Beck, on the accordion and vocals, accompanies the cast of skilled clowns.
March 16-25; Thurs.-Sat. at 10pm, Sun. at 5:30pm (running time, 90 minutes). At The Club at La MaMa (74A E.4 St., btw. Bowery & 2nd Ave.). For tickets ($18, $13 for students/seniors), call 212-475-7710 or visit lamama.org. Also visit thatbeautifullaugh.com.
EVOLUTION
Cherry Lane Theatre’s Mentor Project pairs leading dramatists with emerging writers. The end product of one such collaboration can be seen on stage through March 24. Writer/performer Patricia Buckley, director Michele Chivu and mentor Jean-Claude van Itallie were inspired by the work of visual artists, creation myths and scientific facts. “Evolution” charts a woman’s efforts to transform herself (and attempts by others to prevent it). Personas, identities and the self-contained world of the family all figure into the mix — with a nod to the paleontological history of whales!
Through March 24, at the Cherry Lane Studio Theatre (38 Commerce St.). Tues.-Sat., 7pm; 3pm Sat. matinees. For tickets ($18, plus $1 facility fee), call 212-352-3101 or visit cherrylanetheatre.org.
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Do the folks at Urban Outfitters know about the title of The Love Show’s St. Patrick’s Day installment? “Erin Go Braless!” would make a fine addition to their controversial line of T-shirts that have fingers wagging and tongues talking. As for The Love Show, a little spice and sex is to be expected from this ongoing dance, burlesque, comedy, magic and music event. The March 17 installment promises a fine Irish spin on their usual offerings (tightly choreographed and costumed numbers, a little cabaret and lots of skin). Emcée David F. Slone, Esq. welcomes Angela Harriell & The Love Show Dancers, master magician The Great Dubini and special surprise guests.
Sat., March 17 (doors open at 8pm, show at 9pm). Tickets: $10. At Drom (85 Ave. A, btw. 5th & 6th Aves.). For info, call 212-777-1157 or visit theloveshownyc.com and dromnyc.com.
