Anna Deavere Smith, Karen Finley, longtime theatre sketch artist Al Hirschfeld and Producers producer Rocco Landesman are among the notable names taking part in the New York Times' Arts & Leisure Weekend, Sept. 13-16.
The affair, in honor of the newspaper's 150th anniversary, will feature 40 panel discussions featuring Times journalists and dignitaries from the arts. Tickets are still available for the following theatre-related events:
— Friday, Sept. 14, 6:30-7:45 p.m., "The Importance of Oscar Wilde." Culture reporter Jesse McKinley moderates. Confirmed panelists include author Moises Kaufman (Gross Indecency: The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde). At the Morgan Library, 29 E. 36th St.
— Saturday, Sept. 15, 10-11:15 a.m., "Presenting the Arts: Impresarios Speak." Arts & Leisure editor John Rockwell moderates a panel that includes three individuals responsible for the artistic direction of some of the nation's leading cultural organizations: Harvey Lichtenstein, chairman of the Brooklyn Academy of Music Local Development Corporation; Nigel Redden, director of Lincoln Center Festival and general director, Spoleto Festival USA; and Linda Shelton, executive director, Joyce Theater.
— Saturday, Sept. 15, 1:30-2:45 p.m., "The Producer of The Producers." Frank Rich talks with Broadway producer Rocco Landesman. — Saturday, Sept. 15, 3:15-4:30 p.m., "The Voices of Anna Deavere Smith." A discussion between critic-at-large Margo Jefferson and Anna Deavere Smith, the playwright, author, professor and performance artist who explores issues of race, community and character in America.
— Sunday, Sept. 16, 12:45-2 p.m., "Sketches from the Aisle." Theater critic Ben Brantley talks with Al Hirschfeld about the iconic illustrator's long career.
— Sunday, Sept. 16, 4:15-5:30 pm., "Dangerous Women." Arts & Ideas editor Patti Cohen talks with Karen Finley and Sarah Jones, two women whose work thrives on risk-taking and making bigger than life statements in their individual art forms.
Unless indicated, events will be held at The New York Times, 229 W. 43rd St., between Broadway and 8th Ave. Tickets are $25, but may be purchased for $18.51 by calling 1-888-NYT-1870 and mention the code "NYT@150."
Some Broadway shows are also offering special "buy one ticket at full price, get the other for $18.51" deals that weekend. Many off-Broadway shows are offering two tickets at $18.51 each.
— By Diane Snyder
