Out & About NYC Magazine was founded to offer the arts and lifestyle enthusiast a fresh new look at New York City. We will showcase the established and the emerging, the traditional and the trendy. And we will do it with élan, and panache with a dash of fun.

Lupita Nyong’o Defines True Beauty (video and transcript)

By Walter Rutledge

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The Oscar speech by Lupita Nyong’o was a historic moment; but her most powerful message was delivered during the 7th annual Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon sponsored by Essence Magazine. Nyong’o was honored with the Best Breakthrough Performance Award for her work in then Oscar nominated 12 Years a Slave. She shared a poignant letter from a girl whose dark complexion gave her feeling of inadequacy. She was able to find her own beauty through Lupita’s journey. Then Lupita share her own story of self-doubt because of her complexion. It is a moving and inspiring affirmation on the meaning of true beauty. Continue reading

Apollo Club Harlem

By Walter Rutledge

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Apollo Club Harlem returned to the Apollo Theater for four performances Thursday, February 20 through Sunday, February 23, 2014. The evening consisted of a pre-show musical interlude by pianist Isaac Ben Ayala, a lively revue and post show dancing on stage for orchestra patrons. The stylish evening was a true up-scale date night combining entertainment, dining and dancing while celebrating the history of Harlem’s most venerable performance venue. Continue reading

Creating an Urban Legend: A Conversation with George Faison and Ebon Charles

By Walter Rutledge

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On December 5, 2013 Bah Humbug from The Notorious E.B. Scrooge premiered at the Faison Firehouse Theater. The production was conceived, written, directed and choreographed by George Faison. Ebon Charles, who also performed the role of E.B. Scrooge- a ruthless record mogul, and Hip Hop artist Rah Digga contributed additional material. Faison’s urban adaptation of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol used rap music as the storytelling devise, transforming the holiday classic into an urban legend. Continue reading

O & A with Rita Rubino: Pan Roasted Pork Loin with Rita’s Dry Rub

By Rita Rubino

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A dry rub is a mixture of herbs and spices used to season meats, chicken and fish before cooking. Grilling is the most common method of cooking for foods seasoned with dry rub, but pan roasting, baking and broiling are also viable options. The history of dry rubs spans the globe and you can find a dry rub in nearly every culture. Spice mixtures for rubs are now readily available from famous chefs and spice companies, but if you choose to make your own, you can have fun adding your own personal touch. Continue reading

Out and About with Walter Rutledge: Clive Thompson The Early Years- Life In Jamaica

By Walter Rutledge

Clive Thompson literally began performing before he worn his first pair of long pants.

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