Beats, Rhymes, and Life

Hip Hop is more than just a genre of music. Hip Hop is its own culture, a way of life and a universal language of the streets. Tight beats, captivating stories, hard-hitting lyrics, and strong images are just a small part of what I love about Hip Hop.

The versatility of Hip Hop is what really keeps me attracted to it. From stories about life on the streets, to love to politics, Hip Hop reaches a wide-range of topics that invoke a different experience each time.

A new Hip Hop show being presented by YOUTH Onstage! called "Poetry Snap: Word on the Street" will be playing at the Castillo Theatre.

There are 9 Poets, who represent the 5 Boroughs, and try to capture the heart & soul of New York City streets through original Rhymes, Lyrics and Poetry. Mixed with music and theatre, the performers will bring a new experience to Rap and Hip Hop.

I'm very excited for this performance. When I listen to Rap and Hip Hop music, I become a part of the stories...and to have those lyrics blended with theatre performances can only add to the artistic nature of Hip Hop.

All lovers of Rap, Hip Hop and Poetry should check this out. I know I will.

Rhymes are being delivered only on Saturdays starting on July 18 & 25th, and then August 1 & 8 at 6pm.

Check out www.castillo.org for more information on the show, or call their box office at 212.941.9400

Therapeutic Laughter

Did you ever wonder what it would be like to view your own life from the outside, looking in?

Now, take that a step further and imagine viewing your complicated life being played out by hilarious improv actors.

Welcome to This is Your Ridiculous Life!!

I cannot wait for this show to start up at the Castillo Theatre. I absolutely love Improv Comedy. I know I have some interesting stories, and seeing them acted out by a group of talented comedians would definitely be a great time. I remember watching "Who's Line Is It Anyway?" and always wished to take part in their skits. Okay, so this show doesn't have Wayne Brady, but who cares? It's still a great way to look back on your life, and literally laugh about it.

I have a feeling that everyone who checks this show out will enjoy it very much. Unfortunately, there are only 4 shows, so if you're interested, you better make reservations ASAP!

The showtimes are:

Saturdays, July 18 & 25 at 7:00pm

Saturdays, August 1 & 8 at 7:00pm

Tickets cost $15 each, which isn't bad at all

Check out www.castillo.org or call 212.941.9400

Überrascht!

Heiner Müller is arguably one of the greatest German authors and the most important German dramatist of the 20th Century after Bertolt Brecht.

I have recently been introduced to Müller's work, and so far I have yet to be disappointed. For those who are familiar with his plays already know that Heiner Müller has a unique approach when portraying Western Culture, Society and Politics...and his play "Hamletmachine" is no exception. This play, which was written in 1977, is based on Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and incorporates stronger views on feminism, communism and reformation.

The Castillo Theatre decided to interpret Hamletmachine in their own unique way. Eva Brenner, the director, created her own twist to Müller's play. She strayed from the traditional way of interpreting Hamletmachine by focusing on the idea of hope, using props, and interacting with the audience.

The unorthodox seating arrangement and the simple yet uniquely designed set created the right mood, and hinted to the audience to expect the unexpected. The play itself was quite unusual and out-there, in a good way. The imagery is very bold and graphic, and I constantly asked myself "what the hell is going on?" - followed by a pause, a nod, and a "wow!"

Hamletmachine is one of those shows where you have to let it marinate to really appreciate its brilliance. I have never come across anything like this.

It's certainly not for everybody, but if you're into trying new things, I highly suggest seeing this show. It's very interesting, unusual, provacative and insightful.

I have also come across another review of this show, which will definitely give you more insight to the play. http://theatreiseasy.com/

The show opened up on June 12, and runs until June 28:

Fridays & Saturdays - 7:30pm

Sundays - 2pm

Tickets cost $35 ($10 for Seniors and Students)

For tickets or more information, call Castillo Theatre's box office at 212.941.9400 or visit their website at www.castillo.org