Can you believe it? There are a couple of live events coming up in New York City and Connecticut I am excited to tell you about!

I was thrilled to learn that Food For Thought Productions, lead by playwright Susan Charlotte, will be resuming their staged readings of one-act plays, beginning on Monday July 13 at 1:30 PM at the Coffee House Club on West 44.

Presented in front of a very, very small audience, consistent with Covid safety rules, the two one-acts, “I Can’t Remember Anything” by Arthur Miller and “I’m Herbert” by Robert Anderson, will be performed by Louise Lasser and Bob Dishy. To broaden the audience, it will also be available to view via Zoom. First time I am writing about a live theatre production since March!

For a wonderful spin out of the city to the country, specifically, Litchfield County, Connecticut, we go.

Coming up on July 31-Aug 2, it’s the Five Senses Festival, produced by Pilobolus Dance Company and presented at Spring Hill Vineyards. This is an opportunity to be on a beautiful plot of land, do morning yoga outdoors, participate in a car safari, or enjoy music, watch storytellers and much more. All presented in a totally safe, socially distanced manner.

On the dining front, Tony’s di Napoli on 3rd Avenue and 63rd Street, has remained nimble and created terrific ways to enjoy their food and inspired drinks. For starters, they are now delivering orders to various areas in the suburbs. Check their website for this information.

The restaurant has always had two levels for indoor dining, but given the restrictions, Tony’s has turned their street-level dining space into a beautiful Italian marketplace. Here is where you pick up your to-go orders, but you can also purchase imported pasta, sauces, condiments, and more. You can also order drinks and enjoy them on bistro tables right outside.

Additionally, Tony’s has utilized their upstairs plaza space to place attractive tables with umbrellas, picnic tables adorned with red and white checked tablecloths and ocean blue sailcloth overhead. A perfect spot for a safe, sequestered outdoor dining experience. Don’t forget to try their signature Aperol Spritz Frose.

To hear conversations with the people behind these events and places and much more, including a chat with two accomplished businessmen who have turned their opposing political views into an upcoming graphic novel, listen to “Bagels and Broadway with Valerie Smaldone” Saturday morning 9:05-10 on WNYM Radio (AM970), online, Alexa and on podcast following the Saturday morning airing.