dinner and theater

I'm sure I've said it before, but fall is my favorite time of year. It's also when 90% of my socializing is done.

Screening season takes up a lot of time. But I love it. Two or three screenings a week leaves little time for anything else. But writing about the movies I see is not compelling —  especially when there are professionals who are far better at critiquing films than I am. And, I've yet to see anything this season that requires a must-see endorsement.

Tonight, though, I am attending a new play by Amy Herzog called Mary Jane.  Susan and I are meeting for dinner first, and Jill is joining us at the theater.

I chose a place nearby with good YELP reviews.

Susan and I meet at Atlas Cafe in the East Village. It's a big name for a tiny restaurant. But the menu is huge and healthy. Lots of vegan, gluten-free items to choose from. It's shocking that such a small place can accommodate such a big offering of varied fresh foods — sandwiches, pasta, crepes, eggs, and soups.

Susan and I both order a tuna/avocado sandwich. She orders a celery-spinach-apple juice and I order a coke. Susan, who is non-judgmental, apparently can't help herself. "How can you order a coke in such a healthy place?" she asks. I change my order to an ice tea.

The play, while heartbreaking, is excellent. Nuanced performances by five great actors (most playing multiple roles) and a stunning set change make for a night of great theater. But the story, of a barely-functioning three-year-old, is too sad to be truly enjoyable. Especially when the unseen little boy shares the same name as my son.