Le Carrousel at Bryant Park comes to life in Improv Everywhere's latest mission, the Carousel Horse Race, as a Derby is staged in the park's carousel area complete with announcers, fans, and a jockey.
We love the unexpected excitement that the Improv Everywhere agents bring to the park with their creative pranks. You may have seen traces of them here before... a wolf on the lawn, an epic toilet paper party, or the worst ice skater ever.
If you missed the Derby, consider some of our scheduled fun at Le Carrousel. Visit on the weekends for kids events, plan a Le Carrousel birthday party, or stop by any day of the year, choose an animal (Derby winner Carrots on the Brain, or perennial favorite Granny's Folly perhaps) and go for a ride. It's only $2.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Word for Word Poetry Blogs
We've tapped some very special guest bloggers to help us celebrate this summer's Word for Word Poetry series at Bryant Park. They'll attend each Poetry event, and provide a first-hand account of the talented poets' readings. Take their word for it, or experience Word for Word Poetry yourself every Tuesday through September 6, from 7pm to 8:30pm, at the Bryant Park Reading Room.
Mary Austin Speaker and Justin Petropoulos covered the first two evenings of Word for Word Poetry in the park, featuring Chris Martin, Joseph Lease and Elaine Equi of Coffee House Press on June 7, and the poets of CantoMundo on June 14: Diana Marie Delgado, Deborah Paredez and Carmen Tafolla.
Mary Austin Speaker and Justin Petropoulos covered the first two evenings of Word for Word Poetry in the park, featuring Chris Martin, Joseph Lease and Elaine Equi of Coffee House Press on June 7, and the poets of CantoMundo on June 14: Diana Marie Delgado, Deborah Paredez and Carmen Tafolla.
Monday, June 27, 2011
From the Archives: The Early Years of the HBO Summer Film Festival
In this post, BPC's archivist, Anne Kumer, shares some history on public art pieces in the park. This is the second of several posts devoted to the subject. It also appears on NYC Circa, a history blog about New York City and its public spaces.
Recently Gothamist posted an aerial picture tweeted by BPC, with the question "Bryant Park Movies: More Crowded Than Ever?"
Probably! But it just means more people having a good time. Let's take a look back to the first film, screened in 1993, one year following the park's reopening in 1992 after a massive renovation. In celebration of its 60th Birthday, King Kong was screened in the park. The film's star even stopped by and made some friends on the lawn.
In the years since, we experimented with opening the lawn at various times of the day before showtime, in order to take optimal care of both lawn and moviegoers, and in 2001, a center aisle.
Early moviegoers enjoy a sunset before the 2004 screening of Alfred Hitchcock's Dial M for Murder.
At last week's inaugural screening of One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, staffer and Bryant Park blogger Kati holds her ground while people "run the lawn."
You can do it again tonight for the screening of The 39 Steps.
HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival
Mondays, June 20 - August 22
Lawn opens at 5:00 pm
Films screen about a half hour after sunset (usually 8:30-9:00 pm)
Check here for more information about Film Festival evenings in the park.
Recently Gothamist posted an aerial picture tweeted by BPC, with the question "Bryant Park Movies: More Crowded Than Ever?"
Probably! But it just means more people having a good time. Let's take a look back to the first film, screened in 1993, one year following the park's reopening in 1992 after a massive renovation. In celebration of its 60th Birthday, King Kong was screened in the park. The film's star even stopped by and made some friends on the lawn.
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| Photo: BPC |
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| Photo: BPC |
In the years since, we experimented with opening the lawn at various times of the day before showtime, in order to take optimal care of both lawn and moviegoers, and in 2001, a center aisle.
 |
| Photo: BPC |
Early moviegoers enjoy a sunset before the 2004 screening of Alfred Hitchcock's Dial M for Murder.
 |
| Photo: BPC |
At last week's inaugural screening of One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, staffer and Bryant Park blogger Kati holds her ground while people "run the lawn."
 |
| Photo: Rebecca Disbrow |
You can do it again tonight for the screening of The 39 Steps.
HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival
Mondays, June 20 - August 22
Lawn opens at 5:00 pm
Films screen about a half hour after sunset (usually 8:30-9:00 pm)
Check here for more information about Film Festival evenings in the park.
Friday, June 24, 2011
2 weeks, 5 boroughs, 88 pianos
Sing for Hope comes together each year to place pop-up pianos in the most unexpected of public places with the goal that people will sit down and treat themselves or passersby to a musical interlude. The organization's vision is to ensure "that all New Yorkers — from Rockaway to Riverdale, Stapleton to Sunset Park — have access to the arts." Each piano is designed by a different artist, and each will feature special performances in addition to the daily open public play.
Bryant Park is proud to be a returning location for this ambitious project that invites participation and engages public spaces in a meaningful way. Our Subway Quilt piano was created by Jillian Logue, and can be found nestled just north of Fortitude the Lion beneath the boughs of the honey locust trees in front of the NYPL's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building.
Visitors to the piano yesterday could have heard a scheduled performance by jazz pianist Benjamin Rosenblum, or a less formal performance of Taylor Swift's pop country song "You Belong with Me" by a young man, who happened upon the piano and couldn't resist the call of the keys.
Please note that the Bryant Park Piano located behind the NYPL building near the Bryant Park Grill is not intended for public use. However, our pop-up piano, and the 87 others throughout the city, will be available to anyone and everyone through Saturday, July 2nd.
Bryant Park is proud to be a returning location for this ambitious project that invites participation and engages public spaces in a meaningful way. Our Subway Quilt piano was created by Jillian Logue, and can be found nestled just north of Fortitude the Lion beneath the boughs of the honey locust trees in front of the NYPL's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building.
Visitors to the piano yesterday could have heard a scheduled performance by jazz pianist Benjamin Rosenblum, or a less formal performance of Taylor Swift's pop country song "You Belong with Me" by a young man, who happened upon the piano and couldn't resist the call of the keys.
Please note that the Bryant Park Piano located behind the NYPL building near the Bryant Park Grill is not intended for public use. However, our pop-up piano, and the 87 others throughout the city, will be available to anyone and everyone through Saturday, July 2nd.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
2011 Film Festival Debut
Relive the excitement of the first 2011 Film Festival evening in the park with highlights from Monday's screening of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, including an appearance by Director Milos Forman, the running of the lawn, and Jack Nicholson up on the big screen.
Films take place every Monday in the park for the next nine weeks. Check out the full line-up, pack a picnic, read the FAQs, and we'll see you at the movies.
Films take place every Monday in the park for the next nine weeks. Check out the full line-up, pack a picnic, read the FAQs, and we'll see you at the movies.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
From the Archives: George Rickey in Bryant Park
In this post, BPC's archivist, Anne Kumer, shares some history on public art pieces in the park. This is the second of several posts devoted to the subject. It also appears on NYC Circa, a history blog about New York City and its public spaces.
In 1986, kinetic sculptor George Rickey installed six kinetic sculptures in Bryant Park. The exhibit was part of the Artists-in-Residence program sponsored by the Public Art Fund, Bryant Park Corporation (then, Bryant Park Restoration Corporation), and the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation. Like other artists-in-residence, Rickey was present for the installation, worked during daytime hours, and had helpers. The installation began on June 25, 1986.
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| Photo: BPC Archive |
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| Photo: BPC Archive |
Placed in different parts of the park, all six sculptures were on view until October 17, 1986.
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| Postcard: BPC Archive |
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Hollyhock in the Gardens
You may have noticed a floral newcomer to the gardens surrounding the lawn. The bold pastel vines reaching up towards the sun from the mix of shrubs and perennials are hollyhock.
Our horticulturist Maureen Hackett planted the Alcea rosea Indian Spring Mix single variety of hollyhock last year for an unexpected lyrical touch to the gardens.
For a limited time only, sit beneath the hollyhocks blooming in the northern perennial beds. This early summer biennial only shows up every second year, so be sure to enjoy while they last.
For a limited time only, sit beneath the hollyhocks blooming in the northern perennial beds. This early summer biennial only shows up every second year, so be sure to enjoy while they last.
You can order hollyhock and more online, just like Maureen did, from White Flower Farm through the Bryant Park Shop.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Film Festival: Know Before You Go
With the HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival presented by Bank of America less than a week away, it's time to start packing those picnic baskets, and making plans to meet your friends in the park for our first film, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Last year, we implemented a new entrance plan for festival-goers. This year, those rules will remain relatively the same, but in case you missed it, here are the highlights once again.
Can I get to the park early and save the best seat on the lawn?
Yes! We love the ritual running of the lawn. The lawn is usually closed on Mondays, leading up to the Film Fest, so it can rest in preparation for the crowd. At 4pm, we'll allow people to enter the gravel area around the lawn. The lawn will open at 5pm. Seating is first-come, first-served.
What time does the film start?
Films start thirty minutes after sunset, once it is dark enough to see the projection on the screen. The exact time of sunset changes as the summer progresses, but films generally start between 8:30 – 9pm.
How do I access the Lawn?
We invite you to enter the Lawn Area from both sides of the Fountain, which is closer to the 6th Avenue side of the park.
Can I use a chair on the lawn?
We ask that you sit on a blanket instead, so everyone behind you can see the screen.
Why can't I use my plastic tarp on the lawn?
After you sit on the lawn for several hours, a lot of heat is created between the plastic sheet and the lawn. This will burn holes in the grass, leave brown spots, and make the grass unpleasant for the rest of the season. Cross your fingers, because after all the irrigation work we did this year, the lawn should dry more quickly.
I only brought a purse. Do I have to wait for my bag to be inspected?
Yes, all packages, bags, briefcases, backpacks, knapsacks, gym bags, shopping bags, etc. are subject to search.
What if I leave the Lawn Area to get food?
Packages, including food bags, are still subject to search when you re-enter the lawn area. But this year, there's no reason to even leave the lawn to purchase food. 'wichcraft will make your life a lot easier by selling their famously fresh snacks inside the security checkpoint.
Where are the bathrooms?
Two Locations:
1) Bryant Park Bathrooms on 42nd Street are just down the stairs from the Upper Terrace.
2) Additional porto-san facilities are located on 40th Street on Monday nights.
Sorry guys, as a courtesy to women, the Bryant Park Bathrooms are for women only after 7pm.
What happens if it rains?
Bring an umbrella! Since we do not have rain dates, we always try to screen the film. If there are unsafe weather conditions like lightning, the film will be canceled. This hasn't happened since 2007. We are usually able to screen the film in the rain, but ask visitors to remain off the lawn when it is wet.
And perhaps the most exciting news of all, Director Milos Forman will introduce his film this Monday live in the park. We hope you enjoy the show!
Can I get to the park early and save the best seat on the lawn?
Yes! We love the ritual running of the lawn. The lawn is usually closed on Mondays, leading up to the Film Fest, so it can rest in preparation for the crowd. At 4pm, we'll allow people to enter the gravel area around the lawn. The lawn will open at 5pm. Seating is first-come, first-served.
What time does the film start?
Films start thirty minutes after sunset, once it is dark enough to see the projection on the screen. The exact time of sunset changes as the summer progresses, but films generally start between 8:30 – 9pm.
How do I access the Lawn?
We invite you to enter the Lawn Area from both sides of the Fountain, which is closer to the 6th Avenue side of the park.
Can I use a chair on the lawn?
We ask that you sit on a blanket instead, so everyone behind you can see the screen.
Where do I park my bike?
Bike parking is available inside the park at the Pétanque Courts. Bikes chained to the park's perimeter fence will be removed.
Why can't I use my plastic tarp on the lawn?
After you sit on the lawn for several hours, a lot of heat is created between the plastic sheet and the lawn. This will burn holes in the grass, leave brown spots, and make the grass unpleasant for the rest of the season. Cross your fingers, because after all the irrigation work we did this year, the lawn should dry more quickly.
I only brought a purse. Do I have to wait for my bag to be inspected?
Yes, all packages, bags, briefcases, backpacks, knapsacks, gym bags, shopping bags, etc. are subject to search.
What if I leave the Lawn Area to get food?
Packages, including food bags, are still subject to search when you re-enter the lawn area. But this year, there's no reason to even leave the lawn to purchase food. 'wichcraft will make your life a lot easier by selling their famously fresh snacks inside the security checkpoint.
Where are the bathrooms?
Two Locations:
1) Bryant Park Bathrooms on 42nd Street are just down the stairs from the Upper Terrace.
2) Additional porto-san facilities are located on 40th Street on Monday nights.
Sorry guys, as a courtesy to women, the Bryant Park Bathrooms are for women only after 7pm.
What happens if it rains?
Bring an umbrella! Since we do not have rain dates, we always try to screen the film. If there are unsafe weather conditions like lightning, the film will be canceled. This hasn't happened since 2007. We are usually able to screen the film in the rain, but ask visitors to remain off the lawn when it is wet.
And perhaps the most exciting news of all, Director Milos Forman will introduce his film this Monday live in the park. We hope you enjoy the show!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Bryant Park Shopper: 3rd Thursdays at Original Penguin
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| DJ to the left, drinks in the back, fabulous clothes all around. |
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| How chic are these stripes? |
Original Penguin Bryant Park, 1077 Avenue of the Americas, 41st Street at Sixth Avenue
Tricia Lewis of Fashion Herald is our Bryant Park Shopper
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Bryant Park Kids
Saturdays and Sundays are for kids this summer at The Reading Room and Le Carrousel. Beginning this weekend, Bryant Park's own Flaubert Frog entertains the little ones every Saturday at Le Carrousel. Kids will be delighted by his enthusiasm for performance, as he hosts special guests, directs the audience in participation, and brings stories to life with his off the wall exuberance.
Flaubert Frog & Friends
Saturdays, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
June 18 – August 20*
Le Carrousel
On Saturdays just before Flaubert performs, some of the best children's entertainers and story characters will treat adults and children alike to music, crafts and more over at The Reading Room. Check out the schedule for appearances by the likes of Starfish, Clifford the Big Red Dog and Bad Kitty. Then come back on Sundays, starting next weekend for Le Carrousel Magique, which returns to Le Carrousel with tricks that are sure to amaze. Magicians bewitch visitors with optical illusions, slight of hand magic, as well as rabbit appearances and disappearances.
Pair any of these free activities with a ride on Le Carrousel, which is open every day 11am-8pm. Go for a spin with a $2 ticket, or get 10 rides for only $15 with a Frequent Rider Card, which never expires.
Word for Word Kids
Saturdays, 12:00pm – 1:00pm
June 18 – August 20*
Reading Room
Le Carrousel Magique
Sundays, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
June 26 – August 7*
Le Carrousel
*In observance of Independence Day weekend, no events will be held on July 2 or 3.
Flaubert Frog & Friends
Saturdays, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
June 18 – August 20*
Le Carrousel
On Saturdays just before Flaubert performs, some of the best children's entertainers and story characters will treat adults and children alike to music, crafts and more over at The Reading Room. Check out the schedule for appearances by the likes of Starfish, Clifford the Big Red Dog and Bad Kitty. Then come back on Sundays, starting next weekend for Le Carrousel Magique, which returns to Le Carrousel with tricks that are sure to amaze. Magicians bewitch visitors with optical illusions, slight of hand magic, as well as rabbit appearances and disappearances.
Pair any of these free activities with a ride on Le Carrousel, which is open every day 11am-8pm. Go for a spin with a $2 ticket, or get 10 rides for only $15 with a Frequent Rider Card, which never expires.
Word for Word Kids
Saturdays, 12:00pm – 1:00pm
June 18 – August 20*
Reading Room
Le Carrousel Magique
Sundays, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
June 26 – August 7*
Le Carrousel
*In observance of Independence Day weekend, no events will be held on July 2 or 3.
Monday, June 13, 2011
A Bloomsday Breakfast
This Thursday, celebrate the legacy of Irish author James Joyce, and his novel Ulysses with a garden party in the park. Festivities will recreate the opening scene of the book with a complementary Irish breakfast, musical performances by Songs of Joyce, readings from Ulysses, and more.
Each year, Bloomsday is observed around the world on the same day as the novel takes place. So if you're in the Bloomsday spirit, we encourage you to dress as Leopold Bloom might have on June 16, 1904 in Edwardian vintage attire.
Each year, Bloomsday is observed around the world on the same day as the novel takes place. So if you're in the Bloomsday spirit, we encourage you to dress as Leopold Bloom might have on June 16, 1904 in Edwardian vintage attire.
The event is free, courtesy of Imagine Ireland and the Irish Arts Center, but if you're planning to attend, please RSVP to bloomsday@imagineireland.ie or 212-757-3318, ext. 202.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Limón Dance Takes to the Lawn
Limón Dance is a modern style focusing on movement, natural rhythms, and the weight of the body. The Limón Dance Company carries on the work of its founder, José Limón, through performance and teaching. This year, they'll offer free weekly classes in the park, as well a performance sampling the company's signature pieces. Limón has been described as "dance that must be experienced," so we'll let this sample of last Saturday's inaugural class on the lawn speak for itself.
Practice your moves in the park with Limón every Saturday, and then see the professional dancers perform Limón pieces on August 2nd.
Bryant Park Moves
Saturdays, 11:00am – 12:00pm
June 4 – September 10
Lawn
Practice your moves in the park with Limón every Saturday, and then see the professional dancers perform Limón pieces on August 2nd.
Bryant Park Moves
Saturdays, 11:00am – 12:00pm
June 4 – September 10
Lawn
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Broadway in Bryant Park Schedule Announcement
Mark your calendars, Broadway fans! The much anticipated Broadway in Bryant Park schedule has been announced.
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| The Rockettes at Broadway in Bryant Park |
Each week the stars of Broadway's hottest shows will perform the best musical numbers live in the park with hosts from 106.7 Lite FM. You'll see Broadway classics like Chicago, Rent and The Phantom of the Opera, as well as 2011 Tony-nominated hits like Sister Act and Catch Me If You Can. The casts take the stage from 12:30pm-1:30pm, but readers of the blog are invited to come early to watch the sound check, which starts around 11:30am. Time it right, and you could see each performance twice.
Broadway in Bryant Park
Thursdays, 12:30pm - 1:30pm
July 7 - August 11
Lawn
Broadway in Bryant Park
Thursdays, 12:30pm - 1:30pm
July 7 - August 11
Lawn
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Bryant Park Knits Returns with Knitty City
If you're not at Bryant Park, knitting lessons usually come at a high premium. Our free beginner classes return on June 21st with a new partner, Knitty City.
Not sure what type of needle or yarn to use? No problem! Knitty City will provide supplies to all participants. This lesson is perfect for beginners, but more advanced knitters are also welcome to attend. We just ask that you register in advance by calling Knitty City at (212) 787-5896.
Not only can you learn to knit for free this summer, but you can also give back by attending Bryant Park Knits. Each week Knitty City will collect the practice squares created by participants. At the end of the season, pros from Knitty City will sew these together to form blankets, which will be donated to the Kateri Residence, a nursing and rehabilitation center in Manhattan.
As a preview to Bryant Park Knits, the park will celebrate World Wide Knitting in Public Day this Saturday with a giant public knitting circle on the Upper Terrace. Creators Nell Berger and Jean Hilkens are interested in what happens when a solitary activity like knitting is done as a group. They think of the Knitting in the Round Project, which originated in Amsterdam, as a living installation piece, driven by the participants, as they knit together.
When you're not knitting at Bryant Park, be sure to stop by Knitty City's wonderful little shop on the Upper West Side. As the The New York Times attests, Knitty City is more than just a knitting supplier. It's a store that creates a community.
Not only can you learn to knit for free this summer, but you can also give back by attending Bryant Park Knits. Each week Knitty City will collect the practice squares created by participants. At the end of the season, pros from Knitty City will sew these together to form blankets, which will be donated to the Kateri Residence, a nursing and rehabilitation center in Manhattan.
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| Knitting in the Round Project, Dapper Square Amsterdam |
As a preview to Bryant Park Knits, the park will celebrate World Wide Knitting in Public Day this Saturday with a giant public knitting circle on the Upper Terrace. Creators Nell Berger and Jean Hilkens are interested in what happens when a solitary activity like knitting is done as a group. They think of the Knitting in the Round Project, which originated in Amsterdam, as a living installation piece, driven by the participants, as they knit together.
When you're not knitting at Bryant Park, be sure to stop by Knitty City's wonderful little shop on the Upper West Side. As the The New York Times attests, Knitty City is more than just a knitting supplier. It's a store that creates a community.
Bryant Park Knits
Tuesdays, 1:30pm – 3:00pm
June 21 – August 30
Upper Terrace, across from the Bryant Park Grill
Call 212-989-3030 to pre-register
Tuesdays, 1:30pm – 3:00pm
June 21 – August 30
Upper Terrace, across from the Bryant Park Grill
Call 212-989-3030 to pre-register
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
From the Archives: Poetry in the Park
In this post, BPC's archivist, Anne Kumer, shares some park history. This post also appears on NYC Circa, a history blog about New York City and its public spaces.
The 2011 Word for Word Poetry season began last Tuesday, May 31st with a live broadcast of WFMU's Antique Photograph Music Program with MAC (a.k.a Michael Cumella), and will continue tonight at 7:00 pm with readings from poets Elaine Equi, Joseph Lease, and Chris Martin, co-hosted by Coffee House Press.
As far back as the 1960s, poetry readings were staged in parks throughout the city as part of the Academy of American Poets program Poets in the Parks. Not surprisingly, American modernist poet Marianne Moore drew a large crowd with her 1968 Bryant Park appearance. I don't know what works she read that day, but I like to imagine her poem "An Octopus" was one of them, with all of its incredible imagery and detail. And, I don't know what her voice sounded like, but I like to imagine it too, as full of body and authority as her words.
The following year, the poetry season started out with this reading. I don't recognize the poet, but if you do (or even better, if you were there) please email me.
* 6/10/2011 update: Thanks to poet Mary Austin Speaker, for identifying activist and poet Muriel Rukeyser in the photo below.
The park has a strong connection with poetry, starting with its namesake, American romantic poet and newspaper editor William Cullen Bryant, who is memorialized on the upper terrace with a bronze monument. In 1884 the park's name was changed from Reservoir Square to Bryant Park in his honor. According to some, he was the first American writer of verse to accomplish international fame.
A verse from Bryant's poem "A Summer Ramble," first published in 1826 is perfect for bringing in the poetry season and the warm weather:
But now a joy too deep for sound,
A peace no other season knows,
Hushes the heavens and wraps the ground,
The blessing of supreme repose.
Bryant Park Word for Word Poetry
Tuesdays, 7:00pm - 8:30 pm
May 31 - September 6
Bryant Park Reading Room
The 2011 Word for Word Poetry season began last Tuesday, May 31st with a live broadcast of WFMU's Antique Photograph Music Program with MAC (a.k.a Michael Cumella), and will continue tonight at 7:00 pm with readings from poets Elaine Equi, Joseph Lease, and Chris Martin, co-hosted by Coffee House Press.
As far back as the 1960s, poetry readings were staged in parks throughout the city as part of the Academy of American Poets program Poets in the Parks. Not surprisingly, American modernist poet Marianne Moore drew a large crowd with her 1968 Bryant Park appearance. I don't know what works she read that day, but I like to imagine her poem "An Octopus" was one of them, with all of its incredible imagery and detail. And, I don't know what her voice sounded like, but I like to imagine it too, as full of body and authority as her words.
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| Pulitzer Prize winning poet Ms. Marianne Moore at the podium. Behind her is NYC Mayor John V. Linsday, and Mr. August Heckscher, Administrtor of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs. Photo: copyright Academy of American Poets |
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| Photo: copyright Academy of American Poets |
The following year, the poetry season started out with this reading. I don't recognize the poet, but if you do (or even better, if you were there) please email me.
* 6/10/2011 update: Thanks to poet Mary Austin Speaker, for identifying activist and poet Muriel Rukeyser in the photo below.
 |
| Photo: NYC Department of Parks |
The park has a strong connection with poetry, starting with its namesake, American romantic poet and newspaper editor William Cullen Bryant, who is memorialized on the upper terrace with a bronze monument. In 1884 the park's name was changed from Reservoir Square to Bryant Park in his honor. According to some, he was the first American writer of verse to accomplish international fame.
A verse from Bryant's poem "A Summer Ramble," first published in 1826 is perfect for bringing in the poetry season and the warm weather:
But now a joy too deep for sound,
A peace no other season knows,
Hushes the heavens and wraps the ground,
The blessing of supreme repose.
Bryant Park Word for Word Poetry
Tuesdays, 7:00pm - 8:30 pm
May 31 - September 6
Bryant Park Reading Room
Monday, June 6, 2011
More Breakfast Briefings
The first Breakfast Briefing was a hit! A big thank you to Alison Moore of HBO for sharing her time and insight into the development of HBO GO and other HBO forays into the digital market. We must also thank David Zax of Fast Company for his interesting questions and outstanding moderation. In case you missed the talk, we put together a little recap of the event.
Register now for the remaining Breakfast Briefings, which take place the last Tuesday of each month at The Southwest Porch from 8:30am to 9:30am. Breakfast Briefings provide an intimate forum to connect with NYC-based executives at the forefront of their industries, and a chance to hear first-hand about the exciting challenges they face. Enjoy breakfast and coffee courtesy of 'wichcraft. Brought to you be Southwest Airlines and Fast Company.
June 28: Jonathan Crowley, Director of Business Development at Foursquare moderated by Austin Carr, Fast Company assistant editor
July 26: Jennifer Swanson, SVP, Women's Wear, Elie Tahari moderated by Linda Tischler, Fast Company senior editor
August 30: Charles Best, Founder and CEO, DonorsChoose.org moderated by Anya Kamenetz, Fast Company senior writer
September 27: Coming Soon
Talk to @FastCompany, @SouthwestAir, and @BryantParkNYC on Twitter with the #bizbriefs hashtag.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Word for Word in Full Swing
The Word for Word 2011 Season had a busy debut. Charlaine Harris, author of the Sookie Stackhouse series, visited the Reading Room last Wednesday, and Mary Gordon made an appearance this week to discuss her novel The Love of My Youth. Matthew Gallaway and Seth Colter Walls led a Word for Word Book Club discussion on David Foster Wallace's posthumously published The Pale King. Word for Word Poetry got off to a musical start with a live broadcast of WFMU's Antique Phonograph Music Program and a visit from Michael Cumella.
There is truly something for everyone at Word for Word, which has nine different subcategories of events. Pick up a free book, courtesy of Oxford University Press, and join in one of six Book Club discussions. Or brush up on your history in July and August with Civil War lectures at Word for Word 101. Film buffs can enjoy Word for Word Reel Talks, while waiting for the HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival to start each Monday night. Reel Talks will include film trivia, chances to win a Film Fest snack pack, and drawings for a DVD copy of the evening's featured film.
If you still haven't been convinced to check out the Word for Word Schedule, take NPR's advice. Their list of top summer reads includes four authors scheduled to visit the Reading Room this summer.
Word for Word Author
Wednesdays, 12:30pm – 1:45pm
May 25 – August 24
Bryant Park Reading Room
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| Charlaine Harris and Melissa Marr in the Reading Room |
There is truly something for everyone at Word for Word, which has nine different subcategories of events. Pick up a free book, courtesy of Oxford University Press, and join in one of six Book Club discussions. Or brush up on your history in July and August with Civil War lectures at Word for Word 101. Film buffs can enjoy Word for Word Reel Talks, while waiting for the HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival to start each Monday night. Reel Talks will include film trivia, chances to win a Film Fest snack pack, and drawings for a DVD copy of the evening's featured film.
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| Film expert Scott Adlerberg leads a Reel Talk before Goldfinger last summer. |
If you still haven't been convinced to check out the Word for Word Schedule, take NPR's advice. Their list of top summer reads includes four authors scheduled to visit the Reading Room this summer.
- July 13 - Ben Mezrich, Sex On The Moon
- July 27 - John Burnham Schwartz, Northwest Corner
- July 27 - Stefan Merrill Block, The Storm At The Door
- August 3 - Sapphire, The Kid
Word for Word Author
Wednesdays, 12:30pm – 1:45pm
May 25 – August 24
Bryant Park Reading Room
Thursday, June 2, 2011
A Taste of France in the Northwest Corner of the Park
There's something about the park's French version of boules that attracts attention. Pétanque seems to be a relatively simple game at first; a gravel playing area, a couple of wooden boards, and some shiny silver balls. But our resident pétanque club La Boule New Yorkaise and the community of people who play at the courts in Bryant Park add a whole new dimension to the game.
Joshua Robinson of The Wall Street Journal took note of this quirky game thriving in the park, and the personalities who give it life. He profiles a few of the regulars and lunchtime passersby in his article A Touch of France in Bryant Park.
Joshua Robinson of The Wall Street Journal took note of this quirky game thriving in the park, and the personalities who give it life. He profiles a few of the regulars and lunchtime passersby in his article A Touch of France in Bryant Park.
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| Photo by Daniella Zalcman for The Wall Street Journal |
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