Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Behind the Scenes: Launch of New Female-Driven Movie Produced by Broad Street Pictures Founders Orange Is The New Black's Alysia Reiner and Backward's Sarah Megan Thomas

Alysia Reiner and Sarah Megan Thomas held a launch party for their new film
in NYC.                                                                        Photo Suzanne Ordas Curry
Perched on the 9th floor of The # 3 West Club overlooking Rockefeller Center invited guests were the first to learn about the first venture of Broad Street Pictures, LLC.  Broad Street Pictures is founded by Alysia Reiner and Sarah Megan Thomas. Producer/Actress Alysia currently plays the roles of  Fig in the wildly successful Netflix drama Orange is the New Black and D. A Parks in the new Shonda Rhimes ABC hit How To Get Away With Murder. Philadelphia's Sarah Megan Thomas is the executive producer and writer of the movie Backwards, now available nationwide in stores including Walmart and on most on-demand services. She also starred in it. Both of these ladies have substantial resumes of acting roles in familiar shows.

Review: The Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Is it a Spectacular Family Event?

The world famous Marquee
Last year my two teenage nieces asked me to take them to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular in New York City. Having grown up in the suburbs of the Big Apple, I had been to this show many times. They had not.

My two nieces, one 12 and the other 16, were no less than mesmerized while watching the show last year. They had a constant smile on their faces and their eyes were all aglow (hey- isn't that a line from the commercial?). As they both are interested in dance, I think the Rockettes' movements were especially spectacular to them though I can't see why anyone would not be mesmerized by their movements.

Aside from the Rockettes, and having seen this show several times over the span of several decades, I will say that the show it is a sight to behold and maintains its reputation every year. The colors, music and excitement of the show are astounding. It is now a multi-media 3-D presentation which at times fills the grand room. This year there were over 14 different scenes. All areas of the hall are used, the ceiling, the sides, it is an all encompassing show. However, to enjoy the effects the best I suggest to sit in the first two thirds of the orchestra.

Monday, December 8, 2014

Lorde's Hunger Games MockingJay Video Has NJ Ties- Yellow Flicker Video Filmed in Mahwah


As the Hunger Games MockingJay Part 1 movie climbs in box office ratings, so does Lorde's' music video, mostly shot in suburban Mahwah, NJ on a drizzly brisk night in September 2014. Police were present to guard this Grammy winner and the production company as she filmed in several places, the town pool,  a dirt road near Darlington County Park and at the Sheraton Crossroads, sources report. The filming took place over night and into the early hours of the morning. Ironically the mood of the video was a perfect match for the weather that night.

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Break out the Holly, Just in the Nick of Time, It's Holiday Movie Season Again: What to Expect and Where to Find Them

Ah, holiday movie season. It seems to start earlier and earlier each year. And, it's expanding like the universe. I used to be glued to Falalala Lifetime, now I find my home mainly on the Hallmark Channel, checking in on the weekends on Lifetime, clicking the Channel to Up every so often and tuning into the classics on ABC Family at night. Speaking of ABC family, it is just impossible to have watched the Home Alone or Santa Clause franchises too many times, and I will never get sick of Elf either. 

Event: Shop for Project Ladybug, Help Kids and Meet RHONJ Dina Manzo at Henri Bendel's 12-4

RHONJ Dina Manzo will be appearing at Henri Bendel's in NYC Thursday, December 4th from 6 to 8pm. Get some holiday shopping done with a discount and enjoy that a portion of the proceeds will benefit the children serviced by Julien's Project Ladybug Fund at Memorial Sloan Kettering. This is one of the funds started since Dina Manzo started Project Ladybug at St. Joseph's Hospital in NJ. For more info on this non-profit visit www.ProjectLadybug.com.

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

New York Actor Michael Park Knows How to Succeed in Live Performances: Catch him on NBC's Peter Pan Live

Michael Park
Photo by Suzanne Curry
Rockland County's Michael Park will be appearing for the second time in an NBC Live production, Peter Pan, which will air on NBC on December 4, 2014.

Michael also appeared in NBC's Sound of Music Live! last year. In this new production, Michael plays Cecco.

Peter Pan Live hosts an array of stars which includes Allison Williams, Christopher Walken, Christian Borle, Minnie Driver, Kelli O'Hara, Taylor Louderman, Alanna Sanders, Jake Lucas and John Allyn.





Event: Holiday Fashion Show at Neiman Marcus in Paramus to Benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital on December 12- Meet Emmy Winning Actress Martha Byrne

Hey NJ! View some great fashion and enjoy a tasty brunch while doing good for sick children.  NJ's Emmy-winning actress Martha Byrne and star of the new series Weight invites you to attend a Fashion Show to benefit St Jude's Children's Research Hospital at Neiman Marcus in Paramus at the Garden State Plaza. This event is being held by the Angels for Hope/Bergen chapter. For info and tickets contact caroline,sparico@st.jude.org.


Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Interview: Weight/As The World Turns's Trent Dawson Takes on Two Roles Tonight in CBS's NCIS

Treht Dawson to Appear on NCIS
Trent Dawson, most well-known for his role as Henry Coleman on As The World Turns (1998-2010)  will be guest-starring in tonight's episode of CBS' NCIS (titled "Grounded")  airing November 25th, 2014. Trent has also appeared in NCIS: Los Angeles, The Good Wife and Homeland since his days at ATWT. 

Suzee asked Trent what it was like working like on the set of this hit show. "This was so much fun!", he said. "First, they were planning to cast two different actors for these parts but they ended up letting me play both, which is a gift. The make-up and wardrobe teams did a great job making the distinction." 

Friday, November 21, 2014

Careers in Entertainment: So You Want to Be A TV Writer or Producer? Interview with Lisa Melamed of Party of Five, Sisters and Other Hit TV Shows

Hey Dude Celebrated it's 25th anniversary this past June
at the ATX Festival in Austin. Pictured: Lisa Melamed (second from left)\
is flanked by cast members Chistine Taylor, Jonathan Galkin and
David Lascher.                                             Photo Courtesy Lisa Melamed
      Ever wonder how a TV writer gets to be a writer? Does it take education, talent and luck, or all of these? Read on as I interview Lisa Melamed, whose resume as a television writer and producer spans not just several decades but a plethora of popular shows we've all probably watched.

I met Lisa on a shoot in LA recently for a new show and she was kind enough to let me probe her mind to satisfy my curiosity. Find out how she made it and what any aspiring writer still needs to do.

Suzee:  You have worked on so many popular shows, I don't know where to start. So I will ask you,  how did you get started? Tell me about your road to Hollywood from Brooklyn.

Saturday, November 8, 2014

Hey NJ, Watch What Happens Live When Andy Cohen Comes to Town - BRAVO! to Andy on His New Book The Andy Cohen Diaries: A Deep Look at a Shallow Year

In the busy yet quiet downtown of suburban Ridgewood, NJ, there's always something cookin' at the local bookstore, called Bookends. From The Situation to Hillary Clinton to Michelle Phan to Danny Aiello A'listers of pop culture, sports, Youtube and the world of politics somehow find their way into this tree-lined town.

And so goes Andy Cohen, leaving his  Watch What Happens Live! studio in NYC and travelling into the suburbs to sign copies of his new book, The Andy Cohen Diaries: A Deep Look at  A Shallow Year on November 12th at 7pm. Here in Bergen County, Andy has entered the haven of his real housewives.

I am wondering what will happen live there? Will he entertain us with a few stories before he starts signing the book? Will he have the crowd roaring with laughter? Will he ask his fans pointed questions? Will there be a Word of the Day???

I can only imagine that fans will get their fill of this colorful, creative, consummate host when they meet him at Bookends.

If you're a fan of BRAVO and especially the housewives, it looks like this new book is sure to spill some savory secrets of the super sexy and silly superheroes of the channel we know as BRAVO.

Friday, November 7, 2014

RHONJ's Amber Marchese: The Real Cancer Story Behind This Real Housewife - "I Looked Like a Turnip" - How She Would Like to Save a Life with Her Story

Editor's Note: In this candid interview, RHONJ Amber Marchese opens up about her bout with breast cancer, detailing everything from when she first found it to the way her chemo made her feel to how her husband was there for her the whole time. Read about the doctor that saved her life, how she dealt with the pain, and get some words of wisdom.


Though her story is her own, Amber's story is typical in many respects of many women's struggle with breast cancer. Though there is still so much more needed to be discovered about this disease, her story mirrors the story of hundreds of thousands of other women, women who can proudly call themselves survivors.

Breast cancer is for real, Amber's breast cancer was for real. Though people may question why she brings it up on her show, it really brings true meaning to the title "Real Housewife". Amber will carry this badge of honor throughout her life,  her struggle was as real as it gets and hopefully other women who have been through what she has been through or have just received this life-changing news will see hope in it that all things shall pass and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I don't think that Amber ever thought, while sitting in a chemo chair, that five years later she would be on a TV show donating her locks of hair for other breast cancer patients. Her message, Dream Big.

And Amber, thanks so much for this interview and your honesty. - Suzee

So Young

Suzee: Breast cancer awareness is always in the news. Before I start talking about you, I noticed Joan Lunden has been so many interviews and talking frankly about her struggle with breast cancer.

Amber Marchese: You know, I didn't even know she had breast cancer, I just saw it - it's all over the magazines and thought Oh my God, I had no idea, she is unbelievable. She's super gorgeous.

Suzee: Yes, she is older than you though, more of the typical age for getting breast cancer. Your story is different, you experienced it as a twenty-something, a different generation. 

Amber Marchese: Yes, absolutely, and this is one of the things that I had a hard time with. I was quite young, there was no one that was waking my walk,  you know it was awesome that there were so many people that were offering their help and their insight but they were 45 and 50, and though I loved an appreciated it, I did't feel like I could always relate to it.

Suzee: I've had friends that have had it, most were in their 40's. Who knows what is actually causing this? 

Thursday, October 23, 2014

David Steinberg, Gilbert Gottfried, Caroline Rhea & Friends to Make Us Laugh Out Loud for Cancer: Gilda's Club Benefit November 2 in Hackensack, NJ.

Gilda's Club on Northern NJ presents Laugh Out Loud 5
with David Steinberg, Gilbert Gottfried, Caroline Rhea,
Vince August, Reese Waters, Cory Kahaney,
Jeff Norris, Gary Delena , Eddie Brill & Alan Zweibel.

                                                       by suzanne ordas curry


Gilda's Club Northern NJ is presenting a night of laughs, called LAUGH OUT LOUD 5 in support of their wonderful programs for cancer sufferers and their families. On November 2nd, Bergen Academies will host some of the finest comediens in the area, if not the country, to raise money for this worthy cause. Slated to appear are: David Steinberg, Gilbert Gottfried, Caroline Rhea, Vince August, Reese Waters, Cory Kahaney, Jeff Norris, Gary Delena, Eddie Brill and Special Guest Alan Zweibel. 

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Sharknado 3 To Hit the East Coast This Summer: Will NJ's Tara Reid Survive Again?


NJ's Tara Reid to star in Fin-favorite
Sharknado 3                Photo from Facebook
Okay so the Sharknado Franchise is really bad. But's it's so bad it's really good. It is stupid but entertaining. The best way to watch these computer-enhanced, you've got-to-be-kidding me movies is when they show the Twitter comments. You just have to laugh, and isn't that what makes us tune in?

If we had not seen enough sharks devouring people along the Califorina Coast and NYC, now we find out that those man-eating, limb-stealing fish, mammals, whatever they are will be attacking our nation's capital.

We've seen cameos by some high-profile people in the NYC debacle. Hard to believe Al Roker and Matt Lauer would lend their names to such a movie, but they did and it worked. Will we see some of our government's best and brightest in the DC version? Will President Obama succumb to the jaws of a shark? Will sharks smash through the windows of Congress when they are just about to actually make a decision? Will poor Mr. Lincoln find his hands or feet of stone cut off? Will the Washington Monument somehow be used as a weapon to pierce through an army of invading carnivores?

Thursday, October 16, 2014

Danny Aiello, Kris Jenner, Neil Patrick Harris and Gene Simmons Coming Soon to A NJ Bookstore Near You!

Well I don't think that coming to a NJ bookstore was on the now-famous Neil Patrick Harris bucket list, which includes Sleeping in Cinderella's Castle and Meeting the President,  but this well-known actor/entertainer/host appears to be making NJ his first stop the day he announced he will host the Oscars. You can see him at Books and Greetings on October 16th signing his new book, Choose Your Own Autobiography. This is a ticketed event.

Also on October 16th true Jerseyan Danny Aiello will be signing copies on his new book, My Life On the Street, On The Stage and In the Movies. at Bookends in Ridgewood at 7pm. To Hollywood and back to star in a plethora or movies and TV shows including Moonstruck and Do The Right Thing this actor and producer, as I have personally heard him say, always comes back to Jersey and his wife and family. Not many people also know his musical side, check out his videos and music on

http://dannyaiello.com/discography/
or watch him sing at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciPbODD7fkI

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

The Wait is Over: Weight the Series Pilot starring Martha Byrne Premieres in NYC Amidst a Bevy of Soap Friends for Support

Executive Producers of Weight, Martha Byrne and Daryn Strauss
On the second floor of the Galway Pub in midtown Manhattan they filed in. One soap actor after another, all there to support a fellow actress in her new project, a comedy series called Weight.

Emmy-Winner Martha Byrne put together this new show with Creator and Writers Guild Award Nominee Dayrn Strauss. It's a "dramedy" centering around a middle-class mom "Clare", played by Martha who goes on a reality show to lose weight. The pilot for this show premiered at the party.

As the series had conducted a crowdfunding campaign, the VIP Soap Party, as it was billed, was a donor perk, but it evolved into so much more. It was a reunion for so many soap actors, actors who spent days and months and years with each other, but many of whom have seen their soaps end. And because of this, had not seen their soap "family" in quite some time.



The step and repeat area was busy as Soap Opera Digest, Soap Opera Network, CBS Soaps in Depth and Serial Scoop were all there. Serial Scoop Now set up tent in another area for interviews, interviewing Daryn, Martha, Anny Sayre, and Elizabeth Hubbard,

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

D. A. Pupa's Book The Magician: A Serial Killer Hits the Beloved Jersey Shore/Booksigning at Booktowne October 24th

The Magician is D. A. Pupa's first mystery.
 The Magician is the first novel from the pen of  NJ's D. A. Pupa. A psychotherapist by trade, D. A. undoubtedly uses his knowledge of the human psyche intertwined with a love of thrillers and mystery to create some magic of his own in this page-turner set at the Jersey Shore. Though it takes place during the biggest storm to hit the NJ coastline in almost a century, Super Storm Sandy, the storm was not the only thing wreaking havoc with these Spring Lake residents.. a serial killer was on the loose.

I had the opportunity to speak to this talented first-time author about his life in Jersey and what inspires him to write.

Have you always lived in Jersey?

 I was born in Northeastern Pennsylvania, but have lived most of my life at the Jersey Shore. We briefly lived in Long Island & Europe….but moved here at the end of middle school. Was lucky enough to grow up enjoying the beaches of New Jersey (mainly Manasquan).

What inspired you to the write the book? Are you an avid reader?

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Stories To Inspire: The Today Show's Hoda Kotb Shining Light on Pediatric Cancer - New Video with Cyndi Lauper and Sara Bareilles To Raise Funds

Talk Show Host, NY Times Best-
Selling Author bringing joy
and awareness to children with cancer
Photo Courtesy Facebook
"They were singing along!" Hoda Kotb said, They were all looking for themselves in the video as they sat on the couch, but then they were "singing along."

This is what Hoda Kotb told Access Hollywood today about the debut of her video earlier that morning on the fourth hour of the Today Show with Kathy Lee Gifford.

The Today show studio was filled with the beautiful children from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia that were the stars of the video. This video is Hoda's contribution to the TODAY's Shine A Light Series, a campaign to support worthy causes. Hoda herself battled cancer 7 years ago.



Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Review: The Friends Central Perk Pop-up Cafe - Should You Go With YOUR Friends?

The Central Perk Cafe is open until 10/17/14     Photos Suzanne Ordas Curry
Review by Suzanne Ordas Curry


In one word, Yes.

But not on a weekend.

I waited two and a half hours, albeit just how long the line control people told me the wait would be from a corner two blocks away, Was it worth the wait?

One of the line control guys and gals (all were decked out in "How You Brewin?" ) shirts told me that during the week the lines so far were maybe under a half hour. But today, he said, "New York City, Saturday, Free Attraction? This is what you get!"

I saw people - that were obviously not Friends superfans - leave the line. Even after repeated questioning from my family, I would not leave.

The Friends Couch minus the Friends                                                                             Photo by Suzanne Ordas Curry
I smile at the thought of the Holiday Armadillo, or Monica's dreadlocks. I frown at the "We were on a break" breakup. I feel wispy over Monica's proposal or Ross' mis-speak of "Rachel" at his English wedding. The hundreds of people who waited, these were my peeps.

Book Review: Miss Nicole's Cupcakes Sure to Please: Free Download on Itunes

Cookbook author and celebrity journalist Nicole Russin is offering her cupcake book, Miss Nicole's Cupcakes as a free download on Itunes for your Ipod, Ipad or Mac.

For any cupcake aficionado, or anyone that enjoys a good cupcake, this book is sure to please with its diversity of recipes and enticing and creative photographs. There are cupcakes for any occasion and the photos are sure to inspire any baker. The recipes are easy to follow. Though any female baker would appreciate this book, children and adults alike will enjoy these recipes.

To download it click here: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/book/miss-nicoles-cupcakes/id903612571


Friday, September 19, 2014

Event: Tickets Still Available for Wanda Sykes at NJPac

Wanda Sykes is ready to make NJ laugh.
Wanda Sykes is coming to NJ. If you want more of her than what you have seen on the Ellen Show, on The New Adventures of Old Christine, or any talk show, head on down to Newark for a night of laughs. This comedienne has been named one of the 25 Funniest Women in America by Entertainment Weekly and tonight she gets to prove it. For info visit: www.NJPac.org. One night only: September 19, 2014

NJ Resident and Former Jet Damien Woody Featured on NBC's Biggest Loser

Damien Woody from the Jets to the Biggest Loser Competition
UPDATE:
Congrats on your new weight: 296!

Mendham's Damien Woody tweeted his last tweet on June 23rd: Gotta take a twitter hiatus but know that I'm coming back better than ever!!! Y'all hold down the fort for me

This 36-year old father of 7, and two-time Super Bowl Champion is no stranger to competition, but it's usually on the playing field. After playing college ball at Boston College, this offensive lineman played for the New England Patriots, the Detroit Lions and and the New York Jets. He's also a commentator for ESPN.

This time around, he's competing on the popular NBC weigh loss show, The Biggest Challenge. He started at 388 pounds.

Friday, September 12, 2014

You Tube Personality Alli Simpson to Appear at Garden State Plaza September 13th

Alli Simpson, who has amassed millions of views for her songs on YouTube, will appear at Delia's at the Garden State Plaza in Paramus on Saturday, September 14th from 12-2pm. You can get a selfie with her, freebies, and more, according to the press release. Alli is a 16 year-old model with over 1 million twitter followers. Fans may know her song, "Why I'm Single".
For more information, call 201.843.0287.

LOCATION

DELIA'S - LOWER LEVEL

Monday, September 8, 2014

Event: Jersey's Christina Milian Makes Two Appearances in NJ for Her Wine Brand, VIVA DIVA Wines


From Jersey City to Hollywood on The Voice and Dancing With the Stars, singer, actress and TV Host Christina Milian, born in Jersey City as Christina Flores is coming back to Jersey to promote her wine brand, Viva Diva Wines, which she has recently taken on full ownership of. Come see her on September 12, 2014 from 3 - 5 pm at the Joe Canals in Lawrenceville, Nj and then again on September 13th from 2-4pm at the Magaziner Canals in Mays Landing, NJ.

For more information on Christina visit www.ChristinaMilian.com or visit www.VivaWines.com.
Coming Soon to SuzeeBehindTheScenes: Interview with Christina Millian


Saturday, September 6, 2014

RHONJ Kathy Wakile Launches Indulge Recipe Book at NJ Bookstore: Fans Learn How to Keep Life Real Sweet

Kathy Wakile launched Indulge at Bookends in Ridgewood, NJ
Indulge, by Kathy Wakile with Miriam Harris is a recipe book of over 75 personal treats of hers, published by St. Martin's Press.
          Story/photos by Suzanne Ordas Curry

I've been to a lot of book signings, for clients, friends and family members. At the launch signing, always on Tuesdays, the author's family and friends typically fill the room with support. No one knows who in the crowd is family and friends or just book fans, but at this one, all of Kathy Wakile's fans knew who they were. And they sure did fill it.
______________________________________________________________________
Meet Kathy: This month, Kathy will be all over NJ, heading west to Illinois and Kansas, south to Maryland and back to NJ. Here is a list of her appearances:
http://www.kathywakiledesserts.com/#!appearances/cv9
______________________________________________________________________
About the signing:

Daughter Victoria Wakile
with Grandma Maria Pierri
This was a RHONJ fan bonanza. Kathy was there, and spoke to everyone. Her proud mom Maria was there. Rich her husband was there. Her daughter Victoria was there looking beautiful in a pink dress with bright pinkish lipstick. Her handsome teenage son Rich was there looking like he's grown a bit since last season. Her sister Rosie Pierri was there, looking very tan and slim, wearing all black. Rosie walked up and down the line of fans - about 50 or so - and greeted each and every fan. They were thrilled. She posed for pictures with anyone that asked.

                        RHONJ Jaqueline Laurita stopped by to support her friend KathyWakile.                                                                                                                                                       Photos by Suzanne Ordas Curry

Friday, September 5, 2014

Jersey City Fashion Week is Back and Bigger than Ever: Featuring Project Runway's Helen Castillo

Jersey City Fashion Week is Back this September 24th- 28th with FASHION IN THE PARK.

Come see fashions by local and name designers, dine on food at local restaurants, meet Jersey's Designer Helen Castillo from Season 12 of Project Runway and other notables, listen to the music of Jeff Fox from WBLS, and donate to a good cause at the same time. 

Stories to Inspire: What is CASA? See How You Can Help a Child in Foster Care

Find out how you can change a foster child's life. SheKnows.com writer Sherri Kuhn sheds light on the organization bringing light and love to the life of a child.


Ever want to help a child in foster care, but don't know how? CASA, which stands for Court-Appointed Special Advocate, is a national organization which provides a one-on-one volunteer, an advocate, for each child in foster care. That advocate acts as the voice of the child to help insure that the child receives the best care and placement while in the hands of the foster system. Most states have a chapter as do most counties. There are many ways to help out. You can train to become an advocate, help out in fundraising, become a member of their board, give a little bit of your time where and when needed, or help out financially with a monetary donation or goods and services as needed by each chapter. Most chapters do not have the resources to help each
and every child, so help is always needed. As President of the Board of  Directors for Bergen County CASA for Children in NJ, this organization is special to me and I have seen firsthand the tremendous difference this organization and its people make in the lives of a child without a stable family. Read more here:

http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/1040143/who-is-looking-out-for-foster-kids                                                        - Suzanne Curry

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Careers in Entertainment: Interview with NYC Playwright Michael Block

 Michael Block
Jersey's Michael Block is one of the NYC area's up and coming playwrights. As part of  this site's new "Careers in Entertainment" page we interview Michael to find out the answer to "So You Want to be a Playwright?"

Read on about his latest stage production Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails, how he got started, and how he'll keep trying to get on Big Brother.

Suzee: First, tell me about your latest project.

The Cast of Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails                                                             All photos by Molly O'Keefe
Michael Block: My play Pageant Tales and Beauty Fails is a hilariously outrageous and offensive comedy about a fictional

Friday, August 29, 2014

"VIP Soap Opera Party" and Advanced Screening of Martha Byrne's New Series, Weight To Be Held in NYC October 2014: Tix Now Available - Come Meet Martha Byrne, Michael Park, Colleen Zenk, Terri Conn, Anne Sayre and more


Martha Byrne hosts a VIP
Soap Party for her new series,
Weight  Tix are $50 & up.
NYC - Are you a soap opera fan? Tickets are now available for a VIP Soap Party and Advanced Screening of Weight to be held on October 8, 2014 at 7:00 pm at Galway Pub, 7 East 36th Street (between 5th and Madison) in New York City. Weight is a new comedy series created and executive produced by Writers Guild Award Nominee Daryn Strauss and starring two-time Emmy Winner Martha Byrne. 

As of press date, the list of celebrities attending the VIP Soap Party includes Martha Byrne (As The World Turns, NBC's CrisisGotham the Series). Colleen Zenk (As The World TurnsTainted DreamsWoman on the Ledge Movie)Anne Sayre (Another WorldAs the World TurnsGotham the Series), Michael Park (As The World TurnsHouse of Cards, Gotham the Series, Broadway), Terri Conn (As The World TurnsOne Life to Live, Breaker High), Elizabeth Hubbard ( As The World Turns), Lisa Brown (As The World Turns, Guiding Light, Gotham The Series), Lauren B. Martin (As The World Turns), Elizabeth Keifer (Guiding Light, Venice the Series), Larkin Malloy (All My Children, Guiding Light), cast members from web soap Tainted Dreamsand Danielle Paige (Guiding Light writer, author of New York Times Bestseller Dorothy Must Die.) Check the website for updates on other special guests. Just added: Grant Aleksander (Guiding Light, All My Children)
Michael O'Leary (Guiding Light)

View the Teaser for Weight The Series here:      http://vimeo.com/106968672

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Looking for the Jersey Devil? Head to Jersey City, not the Pine Barrens: Joseph Pepitone's New Comedy Explores the Lighter Side of Raising Hell


Manalapan movie maker Joseph Pepitone's latest indie flick takes an interesting look at the devil and plops him in the heart of Jersey. Despite it's name, don't expect this movie to have anything to do with the legendary creature of Jersey lore, instead expect a seriously funny movie about the original legendary devil of days of yore.

Produced by Jersey folks, featuring many Jersey folks, and filmed in Jersey, this comedy centers around the devil facing term limits for his job. And of course there's competition for it. 'Nough said. Take a look at the trailer here:


Monday, August 18, 2014

Paper Mill Playhouse Seeks Singers for Broadway Show Choir; Open Auditions August 24-27th

Attention all aspiring singers, here's your chance to become a part of local theater.  For more information on the auditions and theater visit: http://www.papermill.org/


Thursday, August 7, 2014

NYGiants/NBCNewYork/Quest Diagnostics Health and Fitness Expo Delivers on Promises: Great Family Event

Mark your calenders for next year because the NYGiants/NBCNewYork/Quest Health and Fitness Expo is an event to be added to your summer lineup alongside going down the shore or to the beach.

This was the second year of the event and it was promoted heavily on NBC TV. The event promised something for everyone and it delivered.

There were over 150 exhibits and activities. These included physical games for kids and adults, cooking demonstrations, health screenings, zumba, yoga, auditions for THE VOICE, meeting players, meeting NBC New York personalities and more. They were all over the stadium, on the field, in the corridors, outside but inside the gate, in the parking lot, and in rooms in the stadium. There was a main stage outside. When I got to the stadium Pam from The Biggest Loser Season 14 was on the stage giving a very motivational talk.

Monday, August 4, 2014

What the Heck is Hot As Hell? Webseries Festival Kicks off in Palm Springs August 8

TV ain't what it used to be. It's not the only place for great visual storytelling, and the web is finding itself home to new, quality, ground-breaking content. Webseries are on the rise with some episodes reaching tens of thousands of views - and tens of thousands of fans, not limited by a cable service or broadcast signal but all over the world

So it's not surprising there's a fan base now yearning for more of their favorite characters. Many of the actors and actresses are familiar faces. Many soap stars have found a home in webseries, many actors moonlight from their traditional roles in current projects and new actors perfect their skills. In addition, known names from movies and TV often "come to play" as Steve Silverman, co-festival director and creator of Pretty the Series adds, because they "just have so much fun."

Sunday, July 20, 2014

Why Carly Blaney from SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE Really CAN Dance: Advice from a Dance Mom and Dance Dad

Carly Blaney from #SYTYCD        Photo courtesy Facebook

Jersey Girl Carly Blaney of Wyckoff sure can dance, and she's been sizzling up the stage on Fox's So You Think You Can Dance.

But just how did this girl go from from a tutu and toe shoes to one of America's hottest new dancers?  We talked to Carly's parents, Liz and Kevin, of course! Read on about how she did it, her perseverance and drive and how young dancers with a dream can make it happen for them too.

To vote click here: http://www.fox.com/dance/

Suzee: When did Carly express a desire to dance, and what did you do about it?

 Mom and Dad: Carly expressed an interest to dance prior to her second birthday  Her older sister Amanda (by 4 years) was taking dance classes and it seemed to pique Carly's curiosity. I think Carly liked the dress-up part of dance first. She would ALWAYS wear a tutu. Whether going out to the stores or picking her sister up from school she would be seen wearing it and she seemed to love the attention she received from wearing it. As soon as she was old enough, I believe age 2 1/2, we enrolled her in dance classes.

Friday, July 18, 2014

RHONJ Season 6 Kicks off with Local Party in NJ: Dina Manzo, Melissa & Joe Gorga, Teresa Giudice and Newcomer Amber Marchese Attend Viewing Party/Fundraiser for Project Ladybug and Deborah Hospital Foundation

What a better way to kick off Season 6 of the RHONJ than to view the debut episode with them?                                            by Suzanne Ordas Curry

Dina Manzo
Several of thee RHONJ from this new season, Dina Manzo, Teresa Giudice, Amber Marchese and Melissa Gorga, attended a a  Viewing Party at Pure Parsipiany in Parsippany, NJ. The party was a chance to meet the ladies as well as some of  the men of the RHONJ. The party was billed as a fundraiser, with proceeds going to to benefit two wonderful charities, Dina Manzo's Project Ladybug (which helps children with cancer and other diseases) and the Deborah Heart and Lunch Foundation, a rather weld-know charity among Jerseyans.

It was a hot night, and party-goers had to wait just a little while outside to get in. But it was way cool in the lounge, because that's where the HOUSEWIVES were. There was ample seating, a vibrant atmosphere and lots of TV's. As predicted there was not one FIFA game or wrap-up on anyone of them (even though it was the day of he championship). BRAVO was on all of them.  Andy would have been proud. Now that's my kind of sports lounge..

There were hor douvres being passed; lots of sushi, something in a cone-shaped pastry and edaname. There was a cupcake tower which surprisingly did not all get eaten until the very end. Each guest received a ticket for a glass of Teresa Giudice's Fabbelini, mine was peachy and sparkling and quite refreshing.

Melissa Gorga
There were two areas. One was a general area by the bar and then there was an area semi- roped off that had tables in it. Curtains demarcated the area. This must have been for VIP's but I do not recall a separate VIP fee. For most of the night the RHONJ were stationed in that area, however they all came out to mingle. Except Theresa. Dina Manzo, is a striped color  block and white dress came out many times to mingle and pose with the fans. Melissa, dressed in a summer white dress, did as well. Amber was in and out and very accessible to her new fans also.

There were times when guests could enter the roped-off area, and all the housewvies there were willing to take picutres. Joe Gorga was happy to pose, in fact, I do think he charmed all the ladies as he posed with them. It was pretty hot at the party, but especially by Joe because all the ladies were hovering. At one point Joe shouted, "No one told me this was a SAUNA PARTY!".

Melissa always takes a good photo. I got the chance to ask her if we would hear her singing on the show this year. She said, "You won't see it on the show this year, but I've been working on them outside."

Fans Jen & Barb came from the Poconos
But where was Teresa?  MIA was Mrs. Giudice. I had talked to some of the guests and they said they they got a photo of her earlier, but I was there quite early and I didn't see her at all, just her husband.  Ironically, I got an email in my inbox two days later inviting me to another event of hers a a local restaurant named Cielo's. The invite said,  "In case you didn't get a photo with her on Sunday." This was unusual because at every event I have been at with her she is ALWAYS available, kind and ready to pose for photos for fans so there must have been a good reason.

Amber Marchese
The new girl Amber was very friendly and happy to meet the fans. She looked great with her hair pulled back tight in a ponytail and little black dress, a different look than she had on the show that night. I asked her, I talked to her briefly and about her bout with breast cancer, and she said how she "wanted to get the word out about it and is happy to talk about it." This is not a happy subject to tackle on a show meant to be entertaining, but I was glad to see so far that it will be a topic.

As for other story lines this year, I've read that some of the ladies will not be friends after this season! What? Really? You must mean another show?

Tune in to BRAVO for more entertainment on the RHONJ Season 6.
To read about and view photos and videos from Dina's last Project Ladybug fundraiser click here;
http://www.suzeebehindthescenes.com/2013/11/rhonj-stars-aligned-for-dina-manzos_25.html

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Hard Choices: Hillary Clinton Comes to North Jersey To Sign New Book: Over 800 Line Up at Bookends in Ridgewood


Hillary Clinton, Author of Hard Choices        Photos Suzanne Ordas Curry
It didn't seem to matter that it was hot out and the wait was several hours, over 800 people decided it was a good choice to show up in downtown Ridgewood July 17 to meet Hillary Rodham Clinton and have them sign a copy of her new book, 
Hard Choices.












Secret Service, bomb-sniffing dogs, and lots of police were there in the afternoon to prepare the way for the former First Lady and Secretary of State. The book signing was scheduled for 6-8pm. Purchasers were assured that she would sign everyone's book and she did. The process was quite orderly.

She arrived through the back entrance about 5:45pm, started signing after 6pm and around 8:30 pm she was still inside finishing up the maybe 100 or so people that were still waiting.