Even though we saw the ballet performance a while ago, the third act is still very vivid in my mind. I had never seen a ballet before, but I had certain expectations about what ballet would be like. I was not particularly interested in ballet, or in dance in general. I did not anticipate seeing anything like the last act – the more modern dancing. Instead, I had imagined the third act – the traditional ballet routine. When the couple came out and started to dance, or “float,” as I saw it, I was speechless.

Thursday night I went with my friend Ruth from John Jay to the Metropolitan Playhouse. She had to see this play for her English class and had no idea on how to get there. I didn't really know the area either, the theater being in the Lower East side; however, the subway map I always keep with me has made me the expert of the two of us on how to get through the city. 

On Thursday, October 22nd 2009, I went to my first ever reading. As I was told about the event by Professor Bergman, I had no idea what kind of event I was going to. As I entered the room filled with other Macaulay students and Baruch faculty members, I still remained clueless. However, as Joseph O'Connor took the stand after a bunch of introductions, I realized where I was, at a reading. Honestly, I had no idea who this guy was because I have never heard of any of his books nor writings. However, I'd have to say that I was quite bored with the reading.

           Last week I went uptown to John Jay College of Criminal Justice to hear from former federal prosecutor, Paul Butler. He was a highly educated and well spoken man, capable of convincing anyone in the room, or at least leave one to question their initial thoughts on the matter. Paul was there to discuss the issues featured in his book, Let's Get Free: A Hip Hop Theory of Justice. He was exceptionally moving and persuading. Butler used music, specifically hip hop, to illuminate the injustices served to minority groups.

 Everyone in attendance was enticed by renowned author Joseph's O'Connor humor, wit, charisma, confidence and undoubtedly, his accent. He sounded like an older Porfessor O'Malley. He was interesting and very entertaining to listen to. His stories about dreary Ireland reminded me of the autobiography "Angela's Ashes" by another renowned Irish author, late Frank McCourt. All his talk of Patty Smith gave everyone a good laugh. All of his readings were powerful and some very funny. He read every word with conviction and clarity.