DJ Jon Solomon Celebrates 25th Anniversary of His Holiday Radio Show

Jon Solomon hosts an annual holiday radio marathon on WPRB in Princeton, NJ

By A.D. AMOROSI

Christmas and Hanukkah music has no better friend than Jon Solomon. For twenty-five years, Princeton, NJ’s WPRB FM DJ Jon Solomon has made his name nationally by staying up for 24 hours each Christmas Eve (starting at 5 PM on December 24) and spinning non-traditional holiday music. Solomon’s marathon time on the radio – 103.3 on the FM dial and streaming online WPRB.com – includes tales of holiday cheer and woe submitted by his faithful listeners. To celebrate his quarter-century anniversary, Solomon will add 60 minutes to his usual 24-hour marathon, and host a 25-Hour Holiday Radio Show.

'Mr. & Mrs. A' Review: Serrano Restaurant in Philly's Old City District

Serrano Restaurant in Philadelphia's Old City District

By A.D. AMOROSI and GLAMOROSI

Since 2005, husband and wife Donal and Jennifer McCoy have made Serrano at 20 S. 2nd Street in Philadelphia's Old City area into their own version of an international dining spot. Between the restaurant’s dynamic cuisine by Chef Gina Rodriguez, and Serrano’s second floor club, the Tin Angel, with its dedication to acoustic pop and jazz music, you’ve got an address that’s one-stop shopping for foodies and folkies. I was a tad apprehensive about this Mr. & Mrs. A review because Serrano is named after a hot pepper, and with spicy food, my husband A.D. and I are polar opposites; for him, the hotter the better, for me, everything has to be mild. With that in mind, we headed to Serrano, where the warmth of our hosts, and the pleasant heat in Chef Rodriguez' pepper-infused dishes, made it clear to me why this is one of Philly's hottest restaurants.

Interview: Actor Brandon Andrus from The Four Seasons Musical 'Jersey Boys'

Brandon Andrus

By A.D. AMOROSI

The latest touring production of Jersey Boys – the Tony-winning, musical biography of pop music's most notable vocal quartet, The Four Seasons – is at Philadelphia’s Forrest Theater though January 5, 2014. For seven years, several different teams of actors and singers have criss-crossed the globe portraying the original members of The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Tommy DeVito, Bob Gaudio, and Nick Massi. Langhorne, PA, native Brandon Andrus is a two-year veteran of this musical playing Massi, the quietest Season, its bass voice, its rhythmic underbelly, and its most stylish member.

'Chasing Nashville' S1 E8 Recap: Helena Gets a Makeover, Autumn Gets a Deal

Autumn Blair, star of Chasing Nashville

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Chasing Nashville, aspiring country music stars Autumn Blair, Helena Hunt, Savannah Little and Lauren Marie Presley were preparing to perform for record label execs. Now, on Chasing Nashville season 1, episode 8 titled "Showtime", the moment has arrived for the girls to sing in producer Keith Thomas' label showcase. Unfortunately, Keith makes Savannah sit it out, but the other singers, including the fantastic Julia Knight, represent themselves extremely well. By episode's end, Helena gets a rock star makeover and Autumn gets a record deal.

Interview: Chef Justin Bogle on Opening Avance in Former Le Bec-Fin Space

Chef Justin Bogle from Avance in Philadelphia, PA

By A.D. AMOROSI

If anyone has a right to claim he’s having a busy week, it’s Chef Justin Bogle. The two-star Michelin chef who has worked at Philly's Alma de Cuba and Striped Bass, and NYC’s Gilt (where he got his stars) is opening Avance, a modernist American restaurant at 1523 Walnut Street in Philadelphia, on December 13. If that address sounds familiar, it’s because that space was the one-time home to George Perrier’s infamous Le Bec-Fin, as well as last year’s troubled LBF 2.0. From its stone, steel, and wood doorway to its progressive, seasonal, and locally-sourced menu, Bogle’s restaurant has done everything to insure that Avance is unlike anything you’ve seen before at that location, or anywhere else, in Philadelphia.

Did The Walkmen Break Up?

The Walkmen

By A.D. AMOROSI

Since the year 2000, The Walkmen – a Velvet Underground-inspired quintet of Philadelphia and New York players – has made smart, incendiary garage rock with seven albums to show for its effort. In early December (12/4/13), at Philadelphia’s Union Transfer, The Walkmen played as part of a benefit for this city’s Rail Park. Right before that show, a post on The Walkmen Facebook page announced, “We’re not going to play shows for a long time." Was that Union Transfer show The Walkmen's last gig? Did The Walkmen break up?

'Chasing Nashville' Recap S1 E7 Under Pressure: Helena Weighs Her Options

Helena Hunt, star of Chasing Nashville

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Chasing Nashville, producer Keith Thomas invited the aspiring country stars to perform in a label showcase. This week on Chasing Nashville season 1, episode 7 titled "Under Pressure," each of the singers has an obstacle to overcome: for Autumn Blair it's nerves, for Savannah Little it's finances, for Lauren Marie Presley it's her stage mother, and for Helena Hunt, it's a major life decision; she has to decide if she really wants to be in the music business.

Philadelphia Celebrates the Holidays with Tree Lighting Events

Christmas tree at The Shops at Liberty Place in Philadelphia

By A.D. AMOROSI and GLAMOROSI

Nothing kicks off December’s holiday season better than a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. These events are nearly as much fun as spiking eggnog with brandy, and far less filling. This week Philadelphia’s evergreens will have their lights strung and their balls hung, often with a visit from Santa Claus to boot. In Center City, The Shops at Liberty Place and The Friends of Rittenhouse Square will both flip the switch on Tuesday, December 3; Mayor Michael Nutter and his wife will be on hand at Love Park for the city's official tree lighting on December 4; South Philly's East Passyunk Avenue will deck the halls on December 5; and the South Street Headhouse District will light their tree during their Winter Wonderland event on December 8.

Legendary Sugar Mom's Bar Closes Suddenly in Philadelphia

The Predator at Sugar Mom's in Philadelphia, PA

By A.D. AMOROSI

Sugar Mom's in Philadelphia has long been an institution, a subterranean saloon opened by Kathy Hughes at the start of this city's restaurant renaissance which served old punk rock heads, artists, and people new to the then-burgeoning Old City neighborhood. Sadly, the 225 Church St, bar (renamed Sugar’s) closed, quietly and quickly last weekend, according to neighbors, regulars, and the property’s operators, Brandywine Realtors.

'Chasing Nashville' Recap S1 E6 Fight or Flight: Lauren Marie Rebels

Lana and daughter Lauren Marie Presley from Chasing Nashville

By GLAMOROSI

Last week on Chasing Nashville, Autumn Blair went back to West Virginia to go to prom, Savannah Little took singing lessons, Helena Hunt wrote an emotional song about her dad, and Lauren Marie Presley struggled with her overly-ambitious mother. This week on Chasing Nashville season 1, episode 6 titled "Fight or Flight," producer Keith Thomas invites Autumn and Helena to perform at a record label showcase (reps from 19 and Warner Bros. will be there), and though he's not sure she's ready, he also asks Savannah to participate. Meanwhile, a frustrated Lauren Marie rebels against her 'momager' and flees to Keith's studio, a turn of events that may bring a second chance for her to work with him.

Interview: Josh Piven, Author of the Play 'No Reservations'

By A.D. AMOROSI

Josh Piven, Philadelphia native and the author behind The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook series, gives playwriting a go with No Reservations, a work debuting this weekend in his hometown at the Adrienne Theater’s Skybox on Sansom Street. Though Jesus isn’t the focus of the New York Times best-selling humorist’s satirical Nativity play – a social media-savvy look at celebrity obsession - don’t let that stop you from griping. "I encourage protesting," says Piven. "We’d love the publicity."

Philadelphia Restaurant Ela Upgrades Bar with New Cocktail Program

A trio of cocktails from Ela in Philadelphia

By GLAMOROSI

Ela, the Philadelphia restaurant owned by chefs Jason Cichonski (seen this year on Bravo TV's Top Chef ) and Chip Roman is already known for innovative, elegant dishes. Now, mixologists Maria Polise and Zachary Svoboda have designed a cocktail program to equal Ela's creative cuisine.

Meek Mill Holds 1st Annual 'A Dreamchaser’s Thanksgiving' in Philly

Meek Mill

By A.D. AMOROSI

Philadelphia rapper Meek Mill may be busy in the studio recording his second album and playing shows with pal and label boss, Rick Ross, but this schedule won’t stop him from giving back. This week, Mill is in Philly hosting his first annual "A Dreamchaser’s Thanksgiving," November 26 and November 27. "I’m blessed to be in a position where I can make sure that as many people as possible have a meal on Thanksgiving, so that they can be with their loved ones to enjoy the holiday," says Mill in a press statement.

Bruce Springsteen to Release New 'High Hopes' Album in January [VIDEO]

Bruce Springsteen will release High Hopes in January 2014

By A.D. AMOROSI

The New Year will barely have begun when Bruce Springsteen releases his new, quite unexpected album, High Hopes, on January 14, 2014. Rather than being a full album of new tunes from "The Boss," the Columbia label LP will feature one new tune (the title track), cover songs, studio outtakes and re-recordings of longtime Springsteen favorites. "This is music I always felt needed to be released," Springsteen said in a Shore Fire PR press statement on November 25. The video for the debut single "High Hopes" was also released that same day (watch below).

Interview: Choreographer Matt West from 'Disney's Beauty and the Beast'

The cast of Disney's Beauty and the Beast, a show choreographed by Matt West

By REESE AMOROSI

The stage production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast, based on the Academy Award®-winning animated film of the same name, launched on Broadway in 1994. Since then, the beloved musical has been seen in over 13 countries, moving audiences with the story of Belle and Beast (a prince trapped in a beast's body) and musical numbers like "Be Our Guest" and the title song. The original team behind Beauty and the Beast is back together for a new touring production of the show that will stop at Philadelphia's Academy of Music from Tuesday, November 26 through Sunday December 1. We interviewed choreographer Matt West about Beauty and the Beast, his long association with Disney, and what dancers need to land the best jobs.

'Chasing Nashville' Recap S1 E5 No Place Like Home: Autumn Goes to Prom

Autumn Blair, stepmom Pam and dad J from Chasing Nashville

By GLAMOROSI

On season 1, episode 5 of Chasing Nashville titled "No Place Like Home," the aspiring country singers adjust their strategies after hearing producer Keith Thomas' critiques of last week's open mic performances. Some stay in Nashville, but a few head home, including Autumn who temporarily leaves to go to prom. In the week between Chasing Nashville episodes 4 and 5, the show disappeared from Lifetime TV's lineup. Viewers took to social media to ask, "What happened to Chasing Nashville?, " and got the answer when cast members Tweeted that the show was cancelled, and also encouraged fans to contact Lifetime and Tweet the hashtag #SaveChasingNashville. For now, we'll continue to recap Chasing Nashville as the episodes become available.

'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' Season 2 Finale: McKaylee Wins

McKaylee True, winner of Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition Season 2

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), Gianna won the Group Dance Challenge, and along with her mom Cindy, got to assign the competition solos. They played it well in terms of strategy, but their competitors AND Abby Lee Miller were unhappy with their choices, and the judges advanced all four girls to the next round. So, the AUDC season 2 finale (episode 12) begins with a Final 4, but Kalani is eliminated after the first challenge, and only the Top 3 - Gianna, McKaylee and Trinity - compete for $100,000 and a scholarship to the Joffrey Ballet School of New York. Judges Rachelle Rak and Richy Jackson perform, as does Dance Moms star Maddie Ziegler. In the end, McKaylee True is named the winner of Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition.

Interview: Katelyn Prominski, "Flashdance – The Musical" Touring Company

Katelyn Prominski, currently on tour with "Flashdance - the Musical"

By REESE AMOROSI

Thirty years ago, the movie Flashdance galvanized legions of dreamers to "Take your passion and make it happen," and launched a fashion movement (legwarmers and off-the-shoulder sweatshirts). In 2008, "Flashdance – the Musical" premiered in the UK, bringing the character of Pittsburgh, PA steelworker Alex Owens and her quest for a dance career to life for theater-goers. In 2013, a touring company brought the show to audiences in the US, and now, "Flashdance – the Musical" stops at Philadelphia's Academy of Music from November 19-24. We interviewed cast member Katelyn Prominski, a former member of the Pennsylvania Ballet, about the show, life on the road, ambition, and her sage advice for young dancers.

Eminem's 'Marshall Mathers 2' First Week Sales Numbers and Tour Rumors

Eminem

By A.D. AMOROSI

The verdict is in on Eminem’s new, long awaited Marshall Mathers 2 album, and by all press and audience standards, it’s a hit, selling 792,000 copies in its first week of release. Eminem hasn’t toured since his last album, Recovery, came out in 2010, so the big question that remains is, when is he hitting the boards? We have the answer to that, or at least a rumor we heard, about the Eminem Tour 2014.

'Chasing Nashville' Recap - S1 E4 Surprise Showdown: Open Mic Night

Julia Knight and Lauren Marie Presley, stars of Chasing Nashville on Lifetime

By GLAMOROSI

When we last saw the crew from Chasing Nashville, four of the girls had been invited to Nashville to work with producer Keith Thomas, and two of them – Autumn Blair and Savannah Little – faced off in a karaoke duet of "Falling Slowly" from Once. This week on Chasing Nashville season 1, episode 4, titled "Surprise Showdown," the aspiring country music stars must prove they can write and sing their own songs by performing at an open mic night. Keith is expecting Autumn and Savannah, and also Helena Hunt and Julia Knight, but is surprised when Lauren Marie Presley shows up to perform.

'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' S2 E11: No One Eliminated, Top 4 Safe

Rachelle Rak, Richy Jackson and Abby Lee Miller from AUDC season 2

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), JoJo Siwa, this year's youngest contestant, was eliminated. This week on AUDC season 2, episode 11 titled "Down the Rabbit Hole," the final four contestants compete under an Alice in Wonderland theme, the skill the judges are looking for is "characterization," and the Group Dance Challenge winner gets to assign all of the competition dances.  Gianna wins, and along with her mom Cindy, they assign their competition styles that aren't their best. There are cries of sabotage, but in the end, it's a move that benefits them all; the judges decide to move everyone in the Top 4 to the finals, so no-one is eliminated.

'Chasing Nashville' Season 1, Episode 3 Recap: Welcome to Music City

The cast of Lifetime TV's docu-series Chasing Nashville

By A.D. AMOROSI

For Chasing Nashville season one, episode three, the young singers who placed in the finals of the Hillbilly Days vocal competition head to Nashville, Tennessee to work with producer Keith Thomas. Each of them has obstacles to overcome: Savannah Little's parents disagree about spending money on a coach; Helena Hunt doesn’t want a makeover; Autumn Blair isn’t keen on taking vocal lessons; Julia Knight and her mom Gina have to deal with momager Lana, who invites herself and her daughter Lauren Marie Presley to attend their private session at Thomas' studio.

'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' Divas in the House: JoJo Eliminated

JoJo and her mom Jessalynn on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition season 2

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), we were moved to tears when judge Rachelle Rak used her "Callback Card" to save Trinity from elimination. So, this week on AUDC season 2, episode 10, titled "Divas in the House," there are still five contestants vying for $100,000 and a full scholarship to the Joffrey Ballet School of New York. For this round the theme is "Divas," and the skill the judges are looking for is "performance." Asia Monet Ray, the youngest dancer and breakout star on AUDC season 1 and cast member on Dance Moms season 3, makes a guest appearance in a dance-off. Things don't go well for season 2's youngest contender though: this week, JoJo is eliminated.

SliCE Adds New Seasonal Pizzas and Fresh Donuts to Fall Menu

Jeff Yank, General Manager at SliCE Pizza's Italian Market location in Philly

By GLAMOROSI

SliCE owners Jason and Marlo Dilks have already mastered the art of gourmet pizza, and now for Fall 2013, they are refining and redefining their menu. SliCE Pizza, with its three locations (Rittenhouse Square and the Italian Market in Philadelphia, PA; Washington Township in Sewell, NJ) has upped its game by adding several new seasonal pizzas to their menu, and they are now offering something sweet: handmade donuts with chocolate sauce.

Nancy Glass Productions Films New Cooking Show at Pat's Steaks in Philly

Nancy Glass Productions cooking show set at Pat's Steaks in South Philadelphia

By A.D. AMOROSI

On a warm and windy Friday night in South Philadelphia’s Italian Market area, three amateur chefs and three notable names from the local food scene – Frank Olivieri, Michele Pulaski, and Pete Ciarrocchi – assembled at Pat’s Steaks to film the pilot of a cooking show that will be shopped to all major networks. The brains behind the shoot was none other than Nancy Glass, a veteran on-air personality (the syndicated Evening Magazine) and producer (shows such as Bubba-Q and Get Trucked).

Universal Warrior Fantasy Hair Competition Showcases Philly Salons

The Universal Warrior Fantasy Hair Competition benefits City of Hope

By GLAMOROSI

This weekend in Philadelphia, PA, City of Hope – one of the nation’s top cancer research hospitals and treatment centers – celebrates its COH Hair Ball, now known as Universal Warrior: Fantasy Hair Competition, at Voyeur nightclub in Philly's Midtown Village. Area salons will compete with their best creations, all with a futuristic theme, for prize packages worth over $5000. The contest will be judged by a panel of Philadelphia media and celebrities, and will feature a performance by Brittany Lynn’s Drag Mafia.

'Chasing Nashville' Recap - Season 1, Episode 2: Chance of a Lifetime

Autumn Blair, star of Chasing Nashville season 1 on Lifetime

By A.D. AMOROSI

For season one, episode two of Chasing Nashville (Lifetime), three young women (Helena Hunt, Autumn Blair, Savannah Little), who made it through the last episode’s Hillbilly Days try-outs, head into the finals with their sights set on stardom. Competing singers such as Julia Knight share their spotlight, producer/judge Keith Thomas approaches these promising vocalists about joining him in Nashville, and Lauren Marie Presley’s mom, Lara, goes full momager.

'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' S2, E9: Rachelle Rak Saves Trinity

Tina and daughter Trinity on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), Travis was cut, leaving only five contestants to vie for the $100,000 cash prize and a full scholarship to the Joffrey Ballet School of New York: Kalani, McKaylee, Trinity, Gianna and JoJo. This week on AUDC season 2, episode 9 the theme is "Nightmares", the skill is "technique" and the winner's reward is the opportunity to assign the competition routines. It's a fantastic week for choreography; all of the numbers are exceptional and McKaylee even flies! In the end, dancing gymnast Trinity is cut, but gets the best birthday gift ever when Rachelle Rak saves Trinity with her "Callback Card."

Remembering Lou Reed: Conversations with Journalist A.D. Amorosi

Lou Reed and Metallica

By A.D. AMOROSI

There are so many things that sprung to mind when I heard the news that Lou Reed had died on October, 27, 2013, at age 71, from complications due to liver damage (he had a liver transplant in May 2013) . I immediately grieved for his wife, Laurie Anderson. I was devastated that punk rock’s architect was gone. I also remembered that Reed had called me an “ass----” on more than one occasion. Of this, I couldn’t be prouder.

Casting Notice: New Spike TV Cooking Show 'Frankenfood' Seeks Contestants

Sharp Entertainment is casting for SPIKE TV's new cooking show Frankenfood

By GLAMOROSI

We recently reported that Philly food entrepreneur Tony Luke Jr. had signed on as a judge for SPIKE TV's upcoming competitive cooking show Frankenfood that will be hosted by Chef Josh Capon. Now we've received a casting notice that the show's producers at Sharp Entertainment are looking for contestants; everyone from experienced chefs to home cooks are welcome to apply, and one lucky person on each episode will win $10,000.

French Jazz in Philadelphia: Madeleine Peyroux, Eddie Lang Tribute

Madeleine Peyroux

By A.D. AMOROSI

Two very different brands of French jazz occur in Philadelphia this weekend when chanteuse Madeleine Peyroux plays the Merriam Theater on Friday, October 25, and the late swing guitar great Eddie Lang is celebrated this Sunday, October 27 at Rollers in Germantown.

'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' S2 E8 Wild Wild West: Travis Eliminated

Travis from Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), Ally was cut due to her lack of technical skills, which Abby Lee Miller and her fellow judges attributed to her lack of formal ballet training. This week on AUDC season 2, episode 8 titled "Wild Wild West", the remaining six contestants compete under the theme "Country Western", the skill the judges are looking for is "jumping", and the winner of the Group Dance Challenge gets to save one contestant from the bottom three. Despite receiving mostly positive feedback after his competition dance, Travis was eliminated.

'Chasing Nashville' Docu-series Premieres on Lifetime

Helena Hunt from Chasing Nashville on Lifetime

By A.D. AMOROSI

The Lifetime Network’s new docu-series, Chasing Nashville, takes a fascinating approach to the usual televised talent contest concept. Rather than toss dozens of young innocents to the lions, or laughingly present the silliest of off-key singers along with its serious vocalists, Chasing Nashville focuses on four teenaged girls dedicated to making a name in country music. The biggest surprise of Chasing Nashville is that it’s a reality show with heart, one that tells the story of competitive spirit without flash.

'Walking Dead' Television Show Impacts Theater and Fashion

DEAD SEXY, The Walking Dead Fan Guide (Riverdale Avenue Books)

By A.D. AMOROSI

Walking Dead fans are having the best week ever. Sunday night’s season four premiere earned the TV show its highest ratings with 16.1 million viewers. For fashion lovers there's Paula Conway's new book, DEAD SEXY: The WALKING DEAD Fan Guide to Zombie Style, Beauty, Parties, and a Ghoul-Lurching UNlifestyle, published this week by Riverdale Avenue Books. Meanwhile, theater-goers can see the work of playwright Danai Gurira, the actress behind The Walking Dead’s mysterious character "Michonne," during the Philly run of her play The Convert at the Wilma Theater, October 16 through November 10.

'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' Recap: Fairytales Come to Life

Ally from Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition Season 2

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), Tyler was cut so his twin brother Travis attempted to quit and go home with him, but he changed his mind after an intense conversation with Abby Lee Miller. This week, on season 2, episode 7 titled "Fairytales Come to Life," Travis and his fellow contestants compete under the theme "Fairy Tales", the skill the judges are looking for is turns, and the Group Dance Challenge (GDC) reward is a private lesson with Abby. By the end of the show, Ally's lack of formal ballet training does her in, and she is eliminated.

Philly's 'Top Chef' Hits Year 2 for Sbraga, Prepares to Open The Fat Ham

L to R: Ben Fileccia, Kevin Sbraga and, Munish Narula at Sbraga in Philadelphia

BY A.D. AMOROSI

Top Chef season 7 winner Kevin Sbraga has made year two as a restaurant owner a monumental one. The Philadelphia chef’s namesake restaurant on Broad Street – Sbraga – starts October with a special, second anniversary menu that’s served only at its Chef’s Counter. The restaurateur is also busy with The Fat Ham, his second eatery, scheduled to open next month at the Left Bank Building in the University City area.

'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' S2 E6: Broadway Backstabbers

Tyler from Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition season 2

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), Abby Lee Miller surprised everyone by using her "Callback Card" to bring back Kalani, her favorite contestant who had been cut a week earlier. Then, the aspiring dancers competed in a martial arts challenge, the winner's mom got to pick the bottom three, and that led to Haley being cut. This week on AUDC season 2, episode 6 titled "Broadway Backstabbers," the theme is "Broadway," and the skill the judges are looking for is versatility. Judge Rachelle Rak leads the Group Dance Challenge, McKaylee wins a solo, and during the elimination, Travis steps forward to quit AUDC.

Master Stylist André Richard Baldini to Open ARS LAB Salon in Philly

André Richard Baldini with a client

By GLAMOROSI

On Thursday, October 10, master stylist André Richard Baldini will open ARS LAB, a full service hair salon focused on cutting edge technology and health. The salon will cater to men and women, and will feature services such as cutting, MAC makeup applications and lessons, creative and corrective hair color, texturizing and conditioning. To celebrate the opening, ARS LAB will throw a party and open house on October 10 from 6-9 PM with complimentary light bites, champagne and swag bags. To attend contact RSVP@AndreRichardSalon.com.

James Beard Foundation's 'Taste America' Tour Stops in Philadelphia

The James Beard Foundation Taste America Tour hits Philly on October 4

By A.D. AMOROSI

The James Beard Foundation, created in dedication to the late, critically-acclaimed chef and author, is one of the food world’s most valued commodities with award-giving culinary events held exclusively at its Manhattan outpost, the James Beard House. That’s what makes the Foundation’s October Taste America Traveling Food Festival – with stops in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia and Phoenix – so magical. Food lovers and top chefs get the chance to interact, and of course, eat and cook. The Philly stop is Friday, October 4, at Peachtree & Ward's Pêche in East Falls.

Philly's Tony Luke Jr. to Judge New Cooking Reality Show 'Frankenfood'

A.D. Amorosi (left) and Tony Luke Jr. were judges at Philly Burger Brawl 2013

By A.D. AMOROSI

Tony Luke Jr. – actor, producer, Philadelphia-based king of the sous vide frozen cheesesteak – is having a great autumn. Not only is he readying Tony Luke sandwich shops in Ocean City, NJ, Temple University’s main campus, and Philadelphia International Airport (he just opened at the Laurel Lanes bowling alley in Maple Shade, NJ) while looking for funding for his next movie, the infamous gay Mummers story, Queens for a Day that he’ll film for director Leo Rossi. Last night, it was announced that the recently slimmed down Luke will soon have to eat his way through huge meals and interesting culinary concepts for the SPIKE TV network’s newest food show, Frankenfood. That program will air in the Spring of 2014.

'Inside Llewyn Davis' Film Hosts Sardi's Party and Town Hall Concert

Sardi's is in the heart of Broadway in New York City

By A.D. AMOROSI

Writer/directors Ethan and Joel Coen, along with their producer Joel Silver, took over Manhattan on Sunday for their upcoming film Inside Llewyn Davis. The movie - due out December 2013 - is a caustic love letter to New York City’s pre-Dylan folk music scene of the early 1960s, Sunday’s Inside Llewyn Davis concert at Town Hall found several of the film’s stars (Oscar Isaac, co-stars John Goodman, Carey Mulligan, Adam Driver), soundtrack producer T Bone Burnett, and their friends celebrating its music on stage. A pre-concert party was also a treat: an old fashioned cocktail soiree with Joel Silver holding court at the legendary Sardi’s.

Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition, Anything Can Happen: Kalani Returns

Kira and daughter Kalani from Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition season 2

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), the contestants had to perform on silks (as in, Cirque du Soleil-style aerial work) and impress the judges with their flexibility. In the end, head judge Abby Lee Miller let her favorite dancer be cut, leaving many viewers to wonder, "Why didn't Abby use her Callback Card to save Kalani?" This week on AUDC season 2, episode 5 titled, "Anything Can Happen", Abby changes her mind, and asks Kalani to return to the AUDC. That's not the only drama though: this week's theme is "Unconventional," the Group Dance Challenge has the dancers in a martial arts battle with Abby, and the winner's mother gets to pick the bottom three!

'Mr. & Mrs. A' Review Nick's Roast Beef in Philadelphia's Old City Area

Nick's Roast Beef in the Old City area of Philadelphia, PA

By A.D. AMOROSI and GLAMOROSI

With this week's “Beer and Bacon Fest” in Old City Philadelphia, Nick’s Roast Beef comes into its own. Nick's is a neighborhood stalwart, a quintessential go-to-beef-n-beer joint since 1969. When its Philly-famous bartender Joe "Joey Dog" Schultice his partner Nicole Viechnicki bought Nick’s in May 2012, they knew they had to step up their culinary game to compete in Philly’s new restaurant economy. So, they reduced the size of Nick’s menu, and switched to all house-made offerings. For "Bacon and Beer Fest", Nick’s enhances their dishes with Lansdale, PA’s Bespoke Bacon, and makes burgers with a ground bacon-beef blend. Add in pairings with three local brewers – Yards, Prism and Philly Brewing Company – and Nick’s “Bacon and Beer Fest” output promises to be a heady experience.

Queen Musical 'We Will Rock You' Headed to Philly's Academy of Music

Brian Justin Crum, Robert DeNiro and Ruby Lewis

By A.D. AMOROSI

For twelve years, British comedian/playwright Ben Elton and actor/producer Robert DeNiro’s Tribecca Theatrical Productions have made a smash hit of their Queen musical, We Will Rock You on London’s West End. Rather than take a biographical look at the late Freddie Mercury and Co., their long-running extravaganza is a fictional tale of free-thinking Bohemians looking to return rock n’ roll – via Queen hits – to a world without music.  In October, a U.S. national tour of We Will Rock You opens at Baltimore's Hippodrome Theatre, and has Philadelphia dates scheduled for January 14 through 19, 2014 at the Academy of Music (240 S. Broad Street). Tickets will go on sale shortly.

'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' S2 E4 Recap: Vegas Show Stoppers

Kira and daughter Kalani from season 2 of Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition

By GLAMOROSI

Previously on Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), a young performer named Chloe was eliminated, only a week after she got a reprieve when judge Richy Jackson used his "Callback Card" to save her. Now, there are nine remaining hopefuls vying for $100,000 cash and a full scholarship to the Joffrey Ballet School of New York. This week on season 2, episode 4 of AUDC, the competition theme is "Vegas", the skill the judges are looking for is flexibility, and the Group Dance Challenge prize is immunity. The show's host is Kevin Manno, and the judges are Abby Lee Miller, Rachelle Rak, and the aforementioned Richy Jackson.

Paul McCartney Gives Hollywood Boulevard Concert for Jimmy Kimmel

Sir Paul McCartney

By A.D. AMOROSI

This week on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Paul McCartney gave a concert on Hollywood Boulevard and played classic songs along with several tracks from his upcoming album, NEW, his first solo full-length recording of new material in six years. While NEW comes out on October 15, the cute Beatle will unleash previously unreleased sessions from the Fab Four on November 12 when On Air – Live at the BBC Volume 2 (The Beatles from mid-1960s appearances on BBC radio) drops.

The Late, Great Jim Croce Gets a 70th Birthday Celebration

Jim Croce

By A.D. AMOROSI

The passing of Upper Darby, PA, singer-songwriter Jim Croce and guitarist Maury Muehleisen in a September, 1973 plane crash may have ended  the lives of two talented musicians whose songs like "Time in a Bottle," and "I'll Have to Say I Love You in a Song" would become hits posthumously. What Croce and Muehleisen’s passing did, beyond creating a legend, was rally together their friends, family, fellow musicians, and, of course, fans. This weekend in Philadelphia, they celebrate what would have been Croce’s 70th birthday and commemorate the 40th anniversary of the plane crash, with the Jim Croce Weekend, September 20 through September 22.

Real Estate Roundup: Changes in Philadelphia’s Italian Market Area

L to R: Mama Yolanda's original space, and new awnings across 8th street

By A.D. AMOROSI

This week, in Philadelphia’s Italian Market, two iconic restaurant spaces – the New Golden Palace at 801 Washington Avenue, and Mama Yolanda’s at 746 S. 8th  – are undergoing massive changes. A third space, Zoey’s Yogurt Bar at 1207 S. 9th Street, along Cheesesteak Row, is shooting to open on Tuesday, September 24.

'Dance Moms Reunion: Hurricane Abby' Recap – Season 3, Episode 38

Abby Lee Miller, star of Dance Moms on Lifetime

By GLAMOROSI

Last week on the Dance Moms Season 3 finale, the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) attended the Masters of Dance Arts Nationals in New Orleans, LA, where Christi (Chloe’s mom) and Leslie (Paytons’s mom) had a physical fight that led to both moms and their daughters being sent home. This week, Executive Producer Jeff Collins hosts the Dance Moms Reunion: Hurricane Abby, and we see Christi and Leslie, Abby and Kelly, and Kristi and Jill argue. Also, Abby reveals that she’s holding auditions for season 3 of Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition (season 2 began airing three weeks ago), and also the ALDC Elite Competition Team.

'Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition' S2 E3 Recap: Gods and Mortals

Chloe from Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition, season 2

By GLAMOROSI

On Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition (AUDC), aspiring dancers between the ages of 10 and 13 compete for $100,000 cash and a full scholarship to the Joffrey Ballet School of New York. Every week, judges Abby Lee Miller, Richy Jackson and Rachelle Rak eliminate one contestant. This week, on AUDC Season 2, episode 3, the remaining dancers are judged on the mythology theme, “Gods and Mortals”, and the skill “Power”. There would be nine dancers left at this point, but last week judge Richy Jackson used his “callback card” to save Chloe from being cut, so there are ten. Maddie and Mackenzie Ziegler, from Abby’s other hit show, Dance Moms, appear on this episode.