Out and About

Katja has been a very busy girl since getting back from Paris, not that she would have it any other way. Besides spending many hours researching at the Christie’s library (believe it or not she does actually work sometimes), it has been the usual mix of culture, ballet classes, and socializing taking up most of her time.

She had a very fun evening at one of the opening receptions for the new Renzo Piano designed Whitney Museum of Art, a stunning building downtown with lots of outdoor exhibition space and terraces, and beautiful views from the rooftop. Katja must admit that she spent more time drinking and catching up with her friend than she did looking at art; this is certainly not the first time this has happened, and pretty much inevitable any time there is an open bar with bubbly (there was even a choice between brut and rosé). Good thing the current exhibition is on until the end of September.

Katja also attended a reception at the new space for NYU’s Center for Ballet and the Arts. She learned all about the Center’s mission and upcoming programs, and was able to catch up with a friend over a glass (well two or three) of red wine.

Katja loves going to performances, and last week was a particularly performance-filled one She hadn’t seen an opera since her trip to Budapest, so she eagerly joined a friend at the Metropolitan Opera for a performance of Cavalleria Rusticana (one of her favorites), and Pagliacci. There was a pre-show reception where Katja found herself drinking red wine (yet again), and chatting with some members of the chorus, who were indulging in some wine before heading off to sing (Katja obviously chose the wrong career).

Then it was off to Boston to catch the opening night performance of Edge of Vision, the latest production of her favorite ballet company, Boston Ballet. She hopped on a Lucky Star bus in the morning, which got her to the city in time for some pre-show shopping (Mother’s Day gifts!) and to catch up with a friend. Then it was off to the Opera House. Katja enjoyed the show and socializing during intermission, and charmed a very friendly usher, who provided her with a booster seat so that she would be able to see properly (it’s hard being short).

Back in New York for the weekend, she went to her favorite local spot for dance, The Joyce, where she saw the Lyon Opera Ballet. She was supposed to go to a party afterwards but opted instead to have a relaxing dinner at Prova, a delicious pizzeria across the street from the theater. A good Pizza Margherita is one of Katja’s favorite foods, and the restaurant’s DOP, with mozzarella di bufala, was particularly divine. And of course, like most things, it tasted even better accompanied by a glass or two of red wine.