Compiled by Scott Stiffler
Theater
In rehearsals: Running at the speed of love.
ALL ABOUT LOVE
The music of Steven Wonder inspired this play, which uses every trick in the book (film, music, dance, theater) to take a unique look at love in all of its many splendored forms. As for the three mini-plays which eventually meet and become one: “Carmelita 1:13” has a young couple dealing with breaking up and breaking down. “Three Point Stance at the Edge of the World” sees soldiers from a multitude of eras connected by mayhem and music. In “Lost & Found,” a graying gay couple confronts certain truths in the dairy aisle of Food Emporium. Feb.11 through 21, at the Paradise Factory Theater (64 E. 4th St. btw. Bowery and Second Ave.). For schedule and tickets ($18), visit www.allaboutloveshow.com.
Comedy
Greg Portz and Ashley King
IN A POLYNESIAN MOOD
In February, a New Yorker’s thoughts turn to…Tiki Bars — at least if you’re the fast-rising musical comedy duo that gels when Greg Portz and Ashley King take to the stage. Music and monologues tell the fantastic (and perhaps even true) story of what happens when our amiable duo goes from the island of Manhattan to the South Sea Islands — all in the service of realizing their dream of becoming a resort band. Only gods and monsters would deny such a sweet ambition. Thursdays, Feb. 11, 18, 25. 8:00 p.m., at The People’s Improv Theater (154 West 29th St.). For tickets ($5), call 1-800-838-3006.
Music
Love for Sale: Banerjee gives it away for a song.
JAY BANERJEE & THE HEARTTHROBS Looking for some Valentine’s Day eve inspiration? Consider this gig from Jay Banerjee & The Heartthrobs. These rising darlings of the downtown music scene have performed well — we’ve heard — at such career benchmark LES venues as Mercury Lounge and Parkside Lounge. Now, they bring their sweet and sour romance-minded songs (suitable for lovers and the lovelorn alike) to Arlen’s Grocery. Not sold quite yet? Check out some tunes by visiting www.jaybanerjee.net. Sat., Feb. 13, 7:00 p.m. at Arlen’s Grocery (95 Stanton St. btw. Orchard and Ludlow). $10 cover. For information, call 212-995-1652.
Performance
The folks on stage think they’re on the radio!
RADIO HAPPY HOUR
Has hibernation been kind to the Radio Happy Hour folks? Find out as they emerge from a two-month break to resume regular performances of this live happening — which deftly recalls an old-time radio show. Musical performances, interviews, an audience quiz and a murder mystery sitcom figure into the mix. Head writer Sam Osterhout hosts, with performances from Matt Skibiak, Robin Reed, Jolie Holland and Jessi Klein. After the show, schmooze with the cast during a Happy Hour which promises brunch with a distinct chance of tater tots. Sat., Feb. 13, 2:00 p.m. at Le Poisson Rouge (158 Bleecker St.). $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Call 212-228-4854. Visit www.lepoissonrouge.com.
Comedy
They make bath time lots of fun: Rozzi and Leitman (L to R)
STRIPPED STORIES
Giulia Rozzi and Margot Leitman host this monthly sex-themed storytelling event where comedians, musicians and other entertaining (but presumably horny & troubled) showbiz talents let loose with tales that will make Mom run screaming from the room. The uncensored sharing, we hear, often leads to post-show hookups (audience-on-artist, artist-on-artist, boy/girl, girl/girl, boy/boy; and other variations sure to make poor Mom blush). This month’s theme? “Misunderstandings.” It’s a safe bet they’ll have some doozies to share. Thurs., Feb. 18, 9:30 p.m. at The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre (307 West 26th St., at 8th Ave.) For tickets ($5), call 212 966 9176. Visit www.strippedstories.com.
