3.12.2009

Go find the Naked Cowboy

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Met The Naked Cowboy in Times Square for the first time today. He is hilarious and a definite must see while living in the city. Sure, he'll be surrounded by a ton of tourists, but it's okay to play tourist for a day. Take a picture, have a chat and have some fun.

Best of all it's free (although a few dollars in donations wouldn't hurt ya too much. I mean the guy does stand around in his underwear all day just to entertain you!)

I saw him in the heart of Times Square at the corner of 45th Street and Broadway, but I hear he moves around a lot. So keep your eyes open because you never know where he might be.

3.09.2009

Volunteering to see a free Broadway show

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One of the best times I have had seeing a Broadway production was by volunteer ushering for the Roundabout Theatre Company. The company, which owns the Laura Pels, American Airlines and Studio 54 theaters, allows anyone to sign-up to volunteer usher for specific months during the run of the performance. By ushering you get free admission into the show.

Just call the hot line: 212-719-9393 Ext. 523 (It has an updated list of when sign ups for volunteer ushering begins for all theaters. I suggest going on the first day to choose the date of whichever performance you want).

The amount of work required is minimal and I found the experience really fun. You arrive an hour before curtain and are given a badge and brief introduction to the theater. When attendees arrive you just show them to a seat and hand out playbills. Usually you are assigned a post during intermission as well, like making sure no one messes with the stage or brings food into the theaters.

Seats can vary depending on whether a performance is sold-out or how many general admission attendees there are, but I have always gotten great seats. The head usher will let you pick any vacant seat once all the guests have sat.

Dress code is strictly enforced, but is simply black pants and shoes with a white shirt.

Thus far I was able to see Hedda Gabler at the American Airlines Theater and Distracted at the Laura Pels by volunteer ushering. They were both good shows and it was great seeing them for FREE. Next up I plan to sign up for Waiting for Godot!

3.04.2009

Eat in Chinatown for a buck

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Check out this excursion into Chinatown to find food for $1. Some great cheap ideas.

3.03.2009

Follow NIN on Twitter

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I've started a twitter, NoviceinNYC, to get frequent updates and share more tips and sweet deals. Follow me!

3.02.2009

Meeting the talented and famous at the Stage Door 2

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As mentioned previously, checking out the stage door after a show or even just going by when you know a show ends is a great FREE way to meet some famous faces. Check out who was signing autographs after Guys and Dolls last week.



3.01.2009

Have you found the 'burger joint'?

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Hidden somewhere on 56th Street is "The Burger Joint." You won't see any signs and I'm not going to tell you where it is. The fun is trying to find it yourself. (Although if you aren't up to the adventure a simple Google search should point you in the right direction). I will say don't waste your time at the edges of Manhattan. Stick to the middle and you should find this place.

Once you get behind the curtain, be prepared to order. This is a no-nonsense system. Price wise it's a bit more than your average fast-food restaurant, but the food is so much better! There are no plates and don't expect any fancy treatment. Everyone is in the same boat here.

Be prepared for long lines during peak lunch or dinner hours (I suggest going around 3 p.m. if you're not up for waiting). Be sure to check out the wall of famous signatures and see who you can spot. Samuel L. Jackson and Leona Lewis were just two of the many names I could decipher.

If you see a free seat grab it immediately. This place is tiny and tables are coveted.

Now go start looking and you will be rewarded with a truly delicious burger!

Music is free at Rockwood

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This small little bar in the Lower East Side is a great place to see live music. There is no cover charge, but there is a one drink minimum. Prices vary but you can get a Bud Light for $4 (although some drinks will set you back for $8+). Still, not a bad price for a night of tunes.

Rockwood attracts all kinds of bands and musicians, so if you go in blind you never know what might be in store for. Bands play 40-minute sets before switching on the hour, and you could see 7 different acts in one night.

Rockwood Music Hall
196 Allen Street (between E. Houston and Stanton)
New York City 10002
212.477.4155
Accessible by F and V Line


Feb. 26 - I caught the accordion-infused style of John Foti and his seven-member band (a tight fit in the small bar). The triangle player was sitting at a table with patrons, and the show had a very community backyard feel. This was followed by a great acoustic set by Indie Aussie brothers, The Kin, with special guest Ahn Trio. The environment was so small and tuned in that they sang part of one song without microphones - a truly sweet experience.

Check out Rockwood's Web site for full listings, but if you've got a free night and are looking for something to do without spending a lot head down to Rockwood and see what surprises you!