A classic movie screening, a novel take on karaoke, and a stage production of a comedy film standard are surefire antidotes to late season doldrums

by Jessica Jones Gorman

FIND YOUR FAME!
The karaoke machine was invented in 1971 in Kobe, Japan by drummer Daisuke Inoue, though he actually did not coin the name. An entertaining group created the moniker in the wake of an orchestra going on strike and the group having to use a machine to play the music instead (karaoke translates to “empty orchestra” in Japanese). Inoue never got a patent for his invention, but is still honored in his home country.

Snug Harbor invites you loosen your tie and revisit this instantstar technology at its March 13 Carpenter’s Shop Karaoke event. Located at the heart of the property, the revamped Carpenter’s Shop will be the setting for an evening of all abilities singing, plus beer and wine. The $5 admission includes a first drink; additional libations are $5, with two for one drinks for Snug Harbor members. All proceeds support the institution’s mission and programs. 1000 Richmond Terrace, snugharbor.org.

HERE’S LOOKING AT…
The St. George Theatre will host an Oscar Night pre party on February 9, during which the Academy Award Winning 1942 fi lm, Casablanca, will be screened. Part of the theatre’s “Better on the Big Screen” promotion, the show is sponsored by Williams Eye Works and Richmond University Medical Center. A red carpet walk begins at 2 P.M., followed by pre show organ music. Bogie and Bergman then light up the screen at 3 P.M. (Casablanca’s release, incidentally, was rushed in the wake of publicity surrounding the Allied invasion of North Africa its world premiere in New York City on November 26, 1942.) Tickets are $15. 35 Hyatt Street, 718.442.2900, stgeorgetheatre.org

OLD HABITS
Wagner College’s latest theatrical performance is based on the hit 1992 fi lm, Sister Act, and features original music by multi award winning composer, Alan Menken. Directed and choreographed by Darren Lee, with music direction by Dr. Lauri Young, the show features Wagner performers telling (or rather, singing) the tale of disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, who witnesses a murder and is put into protective custody in a convent. She then inspires the choir and breathes new life into the church while also managing to blow her cover! There are three shows in February: the 27th, 28th and 29th, and four shows in March: the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th. 1 Campus Road, 718.390.3259, wagner.edu

Fans of the film and its star, Whoopi Goldberg, take note that she’s scheduled to reprise her Sister Act role at London’s Eventim Apollo from July 29 July to August 30. She’s seen here with the live production’s co-star, Jennifer Saunders.