A Sketch of New York’s Year-Round Charm
Ah, my dear friends, imagine a February 2024 where the winter gloom seems endless and the city’s cultural scene feels somewhat stagnant. Now, at the end of summer, I am looking back with a certain nostalgia because I was presented with an opportunity that unfortunately doesn’t come around too often. My friend dragged me to the Producers Club in Midtown Manhattan, to check out A Sketch of New York — a series that parodies everyday life in New York. His excitement was infectious, and my day had unexpectedly opened up so I accepted his invitation. I didn’t have any expectations whatsoever, other than escaping the boring bubble I buried myself in, but I suddenly became interested when he pointed out to me a particular gem in the cast: Hraban Luyat. I was familiar with the name, but never saw him in anything, so I thought to myself: why not? Well, not only that I wasn’t disappointed but the evening turned out to be quite exciting.
Hraban Luyat! I couldn’t take my eyes off him. This actor with a magnetic presence completely stole the show with his unique charm. Yes, being Dutch adds a certain cool factor, but it’s really the way he inhabits his roles that leaves you wondering where the character ends and where Hraban begins. He carried the entire show as Michael, in an intense duo with Danielle Kendler Rhodes, demonstrating that to be a true lead you need more than just technique. He wasn’t afraid to embrace moments of awkwardness, lay himself bare for the audience, explore the absurd and at the same time he brought a refreshing taste of experimental theater to the stage.
After the show, I met him in person and yes, he is as cool as he is on stage. We talked about his professional journey, his involvement in theater across Europe, and his desire to bring European theatrical concepts to the New York stage. His passion for theater and artistic vision impressed me, solidifying my newfound admiration for him and compelling me to return to A Sketch of New York every month, seeking in others that special spark that Hraban brings to each performance.
And let’s not forget Jo Dinozzi, the creative force behind A Sketch of New York. Jo deserves equal praise! Her vision for the show has managed to keep it fresh and relevant, constantly reinventing itself with each new cast and performance. It’s her commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas that allows actors like Hraban to shine and keeps audiences coming back for more.
In the following months, I continued to return to A Sketch of New York to discover new talents and perspectives. For instance, Milla Besson, a French-Italian actress with a spectacular career in theater and film, was another powerhouse presence on stage. Milla, who was recently involved in the film Con Job directed by Ian Niles, shared her story with me after the show, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover that we have a common view on acting: “acting is about sharing and giving.” It’s a reminder to us all that theater is as much about heartfelt connection as it is about technical skill.
So, my friends, looking ahead to September 2024, A Sketch of New York at the theater district’s landmark Producer’s Club, right next to Times Square and in the heart of New York’s theater scene, is set to feature a fresh cast. If past performances are anything to go by, this new iteration promises to be an exciting exploration of new talents and perspectives. For those of you, like me, who were initially drawn in by a single performance, the upcoming show offers yet another chance to experience the dynamic landscape of this ever-evolving production. Keep an eye on their website for more information: https://www.asketchofnewyork.com
