Between the Covers
Known as the “Book Babes,” literary critics Margo Hammond and Ellen Heltzel are the authors of their own book, albeit one that’s focused entirely on book recommendations. “Between the Covers: The Book Babes’ Guide to a Woman’s Reading Pleasures” is organized by category, covering everything from mysteries to classics, and each recommendation features a brief preview and explanation of what makes the work successful. But instead of coming across as didactic, their compilation is enthusiastic and fun. On Friday, they’ll be joined by writers Susan Shapiro and Erica Jong. Fri., Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m. Barnes & Noble in Greenwich Villager. 396 Ave. of the Americas (at 8th St.) thebookbabes.com.
The Cherry Orchard
British-born West Villager Sam Mendes directs this Anglo-American company of outstanding actors in two plays this spring, for the collaborative Bridge Project’s first season. “The Cherry Orchard,” newly adapted by Tom Stoppard, has an all-star cast featuring Simon Russell Beale, Rebecca Hall (of Woody Allen’s “Vicky Christina Barcelona”), Josh Hamilton, Richard Eastman and Ethan Hawke. Next up, in February, is “The Winter’s Tale,” by Shakespeare, but this Chekhov play is not to be missed. In a season of revivals, on and off Broadway, “The Cherry Orchard” stands out. Through March 8. $24-90. Brooklyn Academy of Music’s Harvey Theater. 651 Fulton St. 718.636.4100 x1, bam.org.
Colum McCann and Padgett Powell
The Paris Review Salon features acclaimed fiction writers Colum McCann and Padgett Powell in a reading hosted by senior editor Christopher Cox. The recipient of numerous literary awards, McCann is the author of the international bestsellers “This Side of Brightness,” “Dancer,” and “Zoli.” Powell’s “Edisto” is currently being reissued, and his new book, “The Interrogative Mood,” is forthcoming. Stories by both writers have been featured in recent issues of “The Paris Review.” Thurs., Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. Free. NYU’s Lillian Vernon Creative Writers House. 58 W. 10th St. 212-998-8816, cwp.fas.nyu. parisreview.org.
Tibet House Benefit Concert Artistic Director and Vice President of Tibet House, Philip Glass oversees a superlative line-up of musicians taking part in the 19th Annual Benefit Concert for the U.S. Tibet House. Performers include Antibalas, Steve Earle, Angelique Kidjo, Keb’ Mo’, Philip Glass & Zack Glass, The National, Patti Smith & Jesse Smith, and Vampire Weekend. Tibet House (22 W. 15th St.) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan culture. Tues., Feb. 3 at 7:30pm. $35-85. Carnegie Hall. 57th St. and 7th Ave. 212-807-0563, carnegiehall.org, tibethouse.org.
Vanishing New York
“Twilight Becomes Night,” Virginie-Alvine Perrette’s acclaimed short film will be followed by a preview of the work-in-progress documentary “Vanishing New York,” by Jen Senko and Fiore DeRosa. After the screenings, a town hall discussion about development will include Andrew Berman, Executive Director of the Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation; Bettina Damiani, Director of Good Jobs NY; state Assembly member Deborah Glick; and filmmakers Senko and DeRosa. Sat., Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. $12-20. Dixon Place. 161 Chrystie St. (btwn. Rivington & Delancey). 212-219-0736 x113, dixonplace.org.
