Brodie in NYC

Posted by Cindy on January 27, 2010

There’s always something new in New York City.  People who come here often understand that it’s not the dizzying array of listings of new performances coming to town that make up the bulk of the excitement and thrill of being here, but it’s the daily surprises.  Moment by moment, and beat by beat, there are things that happen in this city that simply cannot take place anywhere else.  The wide diversity of the population, along with the long and complex histories of people here, make it a place where perspective is always multiple.  It almost means having the eye of a Cubist to be able to negotiate the multiple realities here, and the best artists do this with finesse and grace.  And sometimes a great sense of humor, too.

For visitors, however, there are no big challenges, and no multiple realities to travel, necessarily, unless you want to dive in with everything.  It’s just as rewarding to check into one of the luxury hotels.  New York City can accommodate all tastes, and if you’re looking for adventure with hospitality, that’s a good way to do it.  Don’t miss some of the more spectacular offerings, however, and keep an eye out for artists whose wit is sharp and skills are fine.  They’re not as common as you’d think, in this big city.  But they are here.  If you happen to be in town to catch one of Basil Twist‘s amazing puppet performances, pay close attention.

This puppeteer has won many prestigious awards from all the right organizations, and performs work in interesting locations in the city.  It’s not hidden, by any means, but might not always be listed on the signs at mid-town.  His team of collaborators is extremely skilled, and if the amazing, mind-bending visuals put you in another realm, Daniel Brodie is one of the artists responsible.  His projection work has grown by leaps and bounds over the past few years, and his presence in the city is absolutely welcome.  If the city can ever be said to be welcoming, that is.  His work is careful, astute, and reflects the deep intelligence of the artist, who demonstrates a rare ability to collaborate with vision.