Money Well Spent

I wasn't necessarily what one might call "frugal" this weekend, but I would like to think that my money was spent wisely.

Friday: Kelly and I ventured to The Colony - the world's great sheet music store. I resisted temptation to buy anything in the store, although I did fall prey to the homeless organization asking for money outside - I forked over $10. Yup, that one better come back around. And for my final smart purchase of the night: a Mango-a-go-go at Jamba Juice.

Saturday: Another mornin', another show ticket line. This time we got in line around 8:45 to get student rush tickets for the matinee performance of Hamlet, starring Jude Law. The cost was $35, and I got more than my money's worth. For starters, the show is over 3 hours. And what's more, Jude Law was surprisingly great, the whole cast (with the possible exception of Ophelia) was wonderful, the lights were stunning, the costumes were modern and sleek, and it steadily snowed! The day was capped off with hours of sing-along time in the "305" piano lounge - and that is always fun and free.

Sunday: The day started with a trip to the annual Broadway Flea Market. The place was stuffed with thousands of people clamoring for tons of Broadway memorabilia. I spent $8 here (for charity once again) and got a couple posters, some old-time Playbills, and a souvenir program or two. Not to mention that we spotted Seth Rudetsky (again), this time in the company of Audra McDonald(!). More creepy stalker pictures were a given. Later in the day I made the best purchase of the weekend: complimentary tickets to Off-Broadway's A Boy and His Soul, graciously provided by fellow NY Arts intern Edward. The show was very entertaining and moving - I feel like I actually made money from seeing it.

So lots of great purchases all around. You may also have noticed a great addition to the blog - a list of links to blogs kept by other members of the New York Arts Program this semester. Feel free to compare and contrast our experiences at your leisure.

In the morning, I'm off to work at the Manhattan Theatre Club. I am excited beyond belief right now. I'll probably be letting you know how it goes, as is my way. Just you hold tight...