IT’S A COOL MORNING in the alpine city of Telluride, Colorado. I’m sitting in the lobby of the Hotel Telluride doing an equipment check before preparing to climb up a frozen waterfall. It’s almost time for the featured event of Two Picks and a Prayer, an adventure package designed to showcase Telluride’s world-class ice climbing. The lobby’s knotty pine walls, embroidered pillows, and plush furnishings feel like European chalet meets the Old West. The ice climbing guide from San Juan Outdoor Adventures gives the go ahead, and we load into the van to head off to nearby Ames Valley—a location famed for both its ice climbing, and the origins of electricity. Ames was the site of the first commercial plant to produce Alternating Current (AC) for industrial use. After a short hike, we arrive at the base of the Lower Ames Falls.
Two Picks and a Prayer introduces beginners to ice climbing, and our half-day adventure starts with some training. With a bit of coaching and concentration, I adjust my climbing technique quickly, feeling more comfortable with the idea of suspending myself vertically against a solid sheet of ice. As the cheering of support grows more distant my confidence increases—the glory of the summit is near. Pushing my nerves aside, I finally arrive at the top and I’m greeted with a spectacular view, a brisk wind, and a tremendous sense of accomplishment.
Two Picks and a Prayer is one of many experiences offered by the Hotel Telluride. The hotel has the vibe of a Victorian luxury resort, with rooms styled in what could only be called western chic. When guests aren’t preparing to head off to the ski slopes or ice wall, they can enjoy chef Chad Glidewell’s delicious fare in the West End Bistro, lounge in the hot tub, indulge in a spa treatment, or help themselves to an afternoon batch of freshly baked cookies. Each of the 56 rooms at Hotel Telluride offer a private deck and view of the surrounding mountains, and pets are welcomed with a gift of homemade organic treats on arrival.
Ice climbing at Lower Ames Falls
Telluride sprang up in the 19th century because of a nearby silver mine. It’s a year-round sport paradise, but is famous for its ski slopes and for having the largest collection of 14,000-foot peaks in North America. The quaint city of only 2,600 residents looks like a movie set. As I wandered around I was sure that someone was about to scream, “Cut!”
After exploring the town, take the free gondola up to the Mountain Village to take in the views from above. Tours are available at Wagner’s Custom Ski factory. You can join the skiers defrosting at the Telluride Distilling Company, or rent a fat-tire bike and ride to Telluride Brewing Company. Don’t miss their famous Face Down Brown Ale. I was still enjoying my ice climbing adrenaline rush, so I chose to take a wild ride on a snowmobile through Beaver Park, offered by Telluride Outside.
Furry friends enjoying the gondola to Mountain Village
The lobby of Hotel Telluride
While Telluride is known as a ski resort getaway, there’s plenty to do aprés ski (or INSTEAD) as well. When you are finished with one of the action-packed adventures offered by Hotel Telluride, you can check out the city’s numerous dining options, browse locally made items in the shops, or learn about the area’s history at the Telluride Historical Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the story of the gold rush, or see their collection of artifacts from the local Ute heritage.
Whether your goal is to scale an ice wall or sink into an outdoor hot tub with a cocktail in hand, Telluride is the perfect destination. DT
When it comes to comedies, few films are as universally-respected as 1993’s Groundhog Day. The movie — co-written by Danny Rubin and director Harold Ramis and starring Bill Murray — manages to be very funny, while maintaining both heart and originality. All these years later, it retains a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes while holding top honors from BAFTA, the Writers Guild Of America, and the American Film Institute.
Last year, a theatrical adaptation of Groundhog Day opened at The Old Vic on London’s West End. The production was critically-acclaimed as can be, earning various “best” nominations from the Evening Standard Theatre Awards, the Critics Circle Theatre Awards, and the Laurence Olivier Awards. Fortunately for New Yorkers, a Broadway production of Groundhog Day begins previews at the August Wilson Theatre on Mar. 16; the show opens Apr. 17.
The team behind the Groundhog Day musical is very impressive, even by Broadway standards. Director Matthew Warchus was nominated for “Best Director” at the 2014 British Independent Film Awards for his work on Pride, also succeeding Kevin Spacey as the new Artistic Director of the Old Vic Theatre London that year. Choreographer Peter Darling worked on Billy Elliot The Musical and Matilda The Musical. Designer Rob Howell won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Set Design for Ghost The Musical and an Olivier Award for his work on Matilda The Musical in 2012. Composer Tim Minchin is another award-winning member of the Matilda team, although you may recognize him as Atticus Fetch from the show Californication. Andy Karl — who plays the Bill Murray-helmed “Phil Connors” role — received a nomination for the Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his work in Rocky The Musical. And those are just a few of the cast and crew members that have received major honors.
Downtown had the pleasure of chatting with Groundhog Day actor John Sanders, who will play the lovable Ned Ryerson role, as originated by Stephen Tobolowsky. John is another former Matilda cast member, beyond spending time on Broadway in Peter and the Starcatcher. Prior to moving to New York, he was a veteran of the Chicago theater scene. Beyond his work with Groundhog Day, John can be seen in the upcoming Netflix series Iron Fist.
More on John and the rest of the Groundhog Day cast can be found at www.groundhogdaymusical.com. The show can also be followed on Twitter via @GHDMusical.
Do you remember the first time you saw Groundhog Day? Was it in the theater?
John Sanders: Groundhog Day was one of my favorite movies when I was younger. I don’t remember my first viewing, I’m pretty sure it was on VHS. I’ve always loved the combination of comedy and mind-bending metaphysics in this story.
Do you have a favorite scene in the movie?
John Sanders: I love watching Bill Murray stuff pastries into his face while contemplating whether he’s a god. Who wouldn’t want to be able to eat like that with no consequences?
Aside from it being a musical, are there any major differences between the movie and the play? Or will fans of the movie be pleased either way?
John Sanders: Fans of the film will not be disappointed. First of all, we have the same writer as the movie, the brilliant Danny Rubin. He’s brought so many of the iconic lines and moments that fans of the movie will love to see and hear. But telling the story as a musical opens up a lot of new possibilities. We never attempt to explain the same-day phenomenon, but we do get to hear so much more about what’s inside these characters’ heads and hearts. And I must say my character Ned has some really surprising depth that isn’t in the film, and that’s really fun to play and to sing about.
Had you worked with any of the Groundhog Day cast before being cast in this production?
John Sanders: I have. A number of actors from my time at Matilda are here, at least five or six of us from that production. And most of the creative team from Matilda are the ones behind Groundhog Day. And of course there are the dozens of backstage crew who I’ve worked with before, and many that I’m getting to know now. I’m a California boy who worked in the Chicago theater scene for 11 years, so I sometimes have to pinch myself that I get to be part of this Broadway community.
Do you have a theory on the time loop duration of Groundhog Day? I’ve heard that it’s 10 years, and I’ve read Harold Ramis say that it was 10,000 years.
John Sanders: I think it must be longer than 10 years, since Phil changes so profoundly. It’s like we get to witness someone live an entire alternate lifetime and come out the other end a changed man. Sort of like, dare I say it, that episode of Star Trek when Patrick Stewart lives a whole life on this other planet in the space of 20 minutes. Did I just up the dork factor in here? Yes, yes I did. But I also think 10,000 years seems a little long — Phil would just be comatose and insane at the end of that, like Leo DiCaprio near the end of Inception.
John Sanders: Only through his work, which I love. But he certainly seems like a fascinating and well-rounded guy. My first encounter with him was watching him as Ned Ryerson in Groundhog Day. Since then I’ve loved him in Californication, Silicon Valley, and his Tobolowsky Files podcast. He also has a fantastic episode on The Nerdist, which I highly recommend.
Although you have worked in television and have appeared on film, what is it that draws you to theater?
John Sanders: My parents were great and took me to theatre in San Francisco when I was young. I remember being blown away by the original touring production of Les Miserables. We also saw a version of this farce called Charley’s Aunt at ATC back in the 80’s, and I remember marveling at the lead actor’s skill and physical precision. He seemed to be juggling eight things at once and walking the line between control and chaos. He had us all on the edge of our seats, and I just remember thinking I wanna do that! I wanna have an audience in the palm of my hand like that! Camera acting can be very fulfilling, but there’s nothing like performing live.
Is Broadway what inspired you to move to New York?
John Sanders: Actually, it was luck that got me here. I was a working actor in Chicago back in 2012, with a gig lined up down in Indianapolis and no plans whatsoever to move to New York. Then the casting director Jim Carnahan made a trip through Chicago looking for new people, and I wound up getting cast in the Broadway premiere of Peter and the Starcatcher. They called me up and asked if I could be at rehearsal in New York in 10 days! I had to drop everything, look for a place to live, and try to find the rehearsal hall. It was a shock to the system, but I’m so happy here now.
What was the first acting credit you ever landed that made you feel like this was a career, not just working for a little bit?
John Sanders: Well, I had always been a pretty good student, but I purposefully didn’t develop a backup plan for my acting career. I knew that if I had one, that’s what I’d end up doing since starting out in this business is so difficult. So I guess I always knew I was in it for the long haul. But the impostor syndrome started to subside when I joined the union and started paying my bills as an actor, though that didn’t happen until my early 30’s.
Groundhog Day aside, do you have any projects coming up? Appearances?
John Sanders: You may be able to see a little of me in the upcoming Netflix Marvel series Iron Fist. Other than that, I’m consumed with living the same day over and over again for now!
When not busy with acting, how do you like to spend your free time?
John Sanders: My favorite thing in the world is skiing, and I just spent a week in Aspen with my dad and a few old friends before rehearsals started. I love travelling and can’t wait to hit somewhere tropical soon.
Do you have a favorite restaurant in New York?
John Sanders: There are two places on the same block in Chelsea that I love. Dinner at Salinas on the patio. Then late nite drinks at Bathtub Gin, a crazy speakeasy hidden behind a tiny coffee stand.
What about go-to lunch spots near your theater?
John Sanders: I’m a pretty utilitarian eater when I’m working, so when I want something tasty and healthy I usually head to Dig Inn on 8th & 52nd. But if I wanna relax there’s always a burrito at Blockheads. Can’t wait till the weather changes and we can all bask in that courtyard again!
Finally, John, any last words for the kids?
John Sanders: Art done well is like science. And science done well is like art. And farts are always funny.
A new and rising e-commerce retailer, Basic Outfitters is known for creating clothing that keeps performance, comfort and space in mind. One of its trademark offerings, the New York City-based company lets customers “Create-A-Drawer,” choosing up to 19 basics for just $60. Its offerings may currently be limited to underwear, socks and loungewear, yet Basic Outfitters manages to deliver fashionable attire that ranges from professional to athletic.
Downtown had the pleasure of speaking with the founders of Basic Outfitters, the husband and wife team of Michael and Laura Dweck. As explained within the Q&A, inspiration for the brand and its subsequent business model came from the realization that New Yorkers do not have the storage space that other major cities’ residents do. In turn, quality must prevail over quantity when choosing one’s wardrobe, and Basic Outfitters is there to provide smart around-the-house attire.
To someone who hasn’t yet shopped with your company, how do you describe it?
Michael Dweck: Basic Outfitters is the most convenient new way to shop for basics. With our Create-A-Drawer service, you can refill your drawer with high quality basics in under two minutes for just $60. Customers choose their socks, underwear, tees and jogger sweatpants. It’s that simple.
What inspired you to start Basic Outfitters?
Laura Dweck: When we first got married, we moved into a cozy apartment in New York City, where we had very limited closet space. When it was time to divide up our dresser, naturally I monopolized five out of six of the drawers. Michael was left with one drawer for his socks and underwear. When the drawer wouldn’t close, I knew we had a problem. I made Michael throw out all his old basics, which turned out to be 90% of his drawer.
MD: When it came time to refill my drawers I was faced with two options: high-quality and high-priced basics, or low-quality and low-priced basics. I love to look good, but I hate to shop and the hunt for affordable and quality basics was stressing me out. I figured I wasn’t the only one having this problem and there had to be a better way. We saw the opportunity to capitalize on the white space in the market, and we created Basic Outfitters.
Have you been able to apply anything that you learned from working with Century 21?
MD: Absolutely. It was my first real job and it taught me the importance of professionalism and accountability. One of my roles was to drive the CEO to work every morning. When we were scheduled for a 6:30 AM pickup, he’d be outside waiting at 6:29 AM. That always stayed with me — no matter how important your title is, there’s no room for slacking.
MD: 100%. There was so much I learned and my experience was invaluable. The most significant takeaway was the value of customer service. Working with cancer patients on a daily basis, compassion and understanding was essential to making the experience as comfortable as possible. With Basic Outfitters, I care about each and every customer and it is my utmost priority to make the shopping experience and the customer experience as seamless and fun as it could possibly be.
Laura, I understand you studied at FIT and interned at Bloomingdale’s early on. What is it that drew you to fashion?
LD: My first fashion memory was when I was in nursery. My mom gave me one day a week that I could choose my own outfit. It was my favorite day of the week and it was when I realized I had a definitive eye and irreverence for style. I remember wearing a purple velvet trapeze top with leggings and Looney Tunes-themed Converses with ruffled socks spilling over. I felt empowered by owning my expression. That’s when I realized the power fashion has to allow people to express their individuality, and I never looked back.
To you, what does the word “basic” mean? Some people may view it as being essential, while others may view it as being simple or elementary…
MD: To us, the word “basic” means essential. Something you can’t live without. Something fundamental to your everyday life. We’ve created a brand of essentials that is the basis of every man’s wardrobe.
Do you have a favorite item from the Basic Outfitters catalog?
LD: My favorite item by far is our new fleece joggers. They’re my Netflix pants and they are the coziest things you will ever put on your body. I usually wear them with our SuperSoft socks that feel like cashmere.
MD: That’s such a tough question! I love it all but one style that I gravitate towards is our performance boxer briefs. The fit and comfort is incredible. And now you know me a little too well.
Besides you two, who are some of the other people that help make Basic Outfitters happen?
MD: What really makes Basic Outfitters run is our band of characters who work with us. Jake came to work with us as an intern when we first started and has made himself invaluable to our team. Frankie recently started working with us and his unique style makes the Basic Outfitters brand come to life. He’s become a fan favorite on our Facebook Live broadcasts. We have an all-star team of freelancers that we work with as well. One of our key hiring points is a candidate’s authentic enthusiasm for our brand and our mission.
Do you have any goals for Basic Outfitters? For example, do you hope to get your products into stores? Or to be able to design lines for existing retailers?
MD: Our goal is to become the leading basics brand. We plan on expanding into the women’s and children’s markets as well as the international market. When we first started Basic Outfitters, we came across a horrifying statistic: On average men keep their underwear for seven years. We have made it our mission to make it as easy as possible for men to change their drawers that they no longer have any excuse not to.
Beyond working together, you two are married. How are you able to make things work both at home and in the office?
MD: That’s our #1 question — so many people ask us that. Luckily, we get along really well! Our skill sets complement each other so well and we each manage different aspects of the business. We’re a power couple!
As two people that were born in the Tri-State area, what is it that keeps you based out here? This isn’t the cheapest place to start or run a business…
MD: Family is the most important thing to Laura and I. We both come from large families and value the close proximity. New York definitely isn’t the cheapest place to work, but the energy of this city is something we can’t live without. The opportunities this city affords are priceless. In the famous words of Frank Sinatra: “If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere!”
Michael & Laura Dweck
When not busy with Basic Outfitters, how do you like to spend your free time?
MD: All I want to do in my free time is play tennis and ski.
LD: He’s obsessed. The first day of the U.S. Open is like a religious holiday for him.
MD: I also love to cook, I even applied for Chopped.
LD: I like to travel any chance I get and I love to take dance and yoga classes to unwind. Shopping is always fun. (laughs)
Do you have a favorite restaurant in Manhattan?
MD: Our favorite brunch spot is Russ & Daughters. Nothing like a good lox and cream cheese bagel.
Finally, any last words for the kids?
LD: Michael is a history junkie so he made me watch Men Who Built America. One of our favorite lines is from John D. Rockefeller: “”Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.”
Everyone needs time to get out of the city to embrace the snow elsewhere. Although a snow-covered city skyline is a beautiful, what better way to spend a wintry weekend than in the Catskill Mountains. Spend a night or two in a guest room or a King Suite at the luxurious Diamond Mills Hotel,conveniently located in Saugerties, NY in the Hudson Valley, just three hours away.
Accommodations include a private balcony and stunning views of the Esopus Creek falls in the guest rooms, or spacious living areas and rustic fireplaces in the King Suites. All rooms come with complimentary high-speed Internet access, European-inspired furnishings, a natural color palette, and overstuffed duvets and linens of the finest Egyptian cotton. The exquisitely tiled spa-like bathrooms radiate heat and include over-sized walk-in showers, hand-crafted antique vanities and chrome and white porcelain fixtures. This luxury hotel strives to create an at-home feel while allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the Hudson Valley.
Photo: Courtesy of http://www.diamondmillshotel.com
Diamond Mills Hotel is perfect for post-winter activity lodging. Common winter activities include hiking, skiing, and ice climbing. The Catskill Mountains are home to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world. Hiking can be done through Peekamoose Adventures, independently with a detail hiking map, or the Catskill 3,500 Club to hike all 35 Peaks of the Catskills Mountains that reach over 3,500 Feet.
The location of the Diamond Mills hotel allows for guests to experience a number of winter activities. There is a shuttle van that drives guests to the base of several World Class ski resorts including Hunter Mountain, Windham Mountain, and Belleayre Mountain along with beautiful Cross Country Skiing and Snow Shoeing trails. The Catskills also offer the most premiere Ice Climbing areas in the North-East, which can be done through the High Xposure Adventure Climbing Schools.
Saugerties offers both old-world charm and a young vibrant feel at the village located along Main Street and Partition street. For some necessary retail therapy, the village consists of a collection of antique shops, boutiques, gift shops, and chocolatiers. There are also a number of cafes, casual restaurants, and bars trickled throughout the village. The beauty of lodging at Diamond Mills is the dining options within the hotel that also make for a wonderful experience.
The Tavern at Diamond Mills, voted one of Hudson Valley’s best by Hudson Valley Magazine, features the handcrafted culinary art of Executive Chef Giuseppe Napoli. Chef Napoli offers world-class cuisine highlighting the best of the Hudson Valley, in collaboration with high-quality meats, fish, house-made pastas, breads and pastries. The Tavern offers local craft brews, hand-crafted cocktails using spirits from local distilleries, and the finest wines from New York State and around the world. The Tavern at Diamond Mills is accommodating for a night with friends, a romantic dinner, or a quick bite at the bar with the option to dine al fresco on the Grand Terrace or going the casual route in a booth by the fire of the main dining room. Whether you are looking for a quiet, relaxing getaway, or an action packed weekend filled with winter activities, The Diamond Hills Hotel offers both.
The beauty of New York City is the diverse options for weekend getaways in such close proximity. The Pocono Mountains, only 90 minutes from New York City, features a beautiful landscape of rolling mountain terrain, breathtaking waterfalls, thriving woodlands and miles of winding rivers.
While the Pocono Mountains are delightful during any season, winter offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and snowshoeing. After a long, eventful day filled with snow activities, the resorts and quaint bed and breakfasts offer many amenities, including luxurious special wedding and honeymoon packages.
In addition to the activities and lodging opportunities, the Poconos has exquisite cuisine to offer guests. Their restaurants include Thai, Italian, and authentic Peruvian food for those with adventurous appetites. The selection is sure to not disappoint as the restaurant scene goes above and beyond a deli or pub. Gourmet cuisine and down-home cooking are also popular choices. Recently this region has adopted a new, hip dining experience – the farm-to-table culinary trend. Many restaurants and resorts with highly skilled chefs have begun to utilize locally-sourced and organic ingredients to handcraft their menu items.
Set aside time at The Lodge at Woodloch for a weekend of relaxation and winter fun. This lodge offers a spa with many treatments, winter activities, and relaxing guest rooms with private verandas and swivel rockers. The Whisper Lounge has a crackling fireplace and outdoor porch, and offers the experience of being completely pampered.
Chefs at The Lodge at Woodloch work with local farmers to use their fresh foods and herb gardens for fresh ingredients. Their meats, poultry, and farm products come from the Lancaster areas. Guest are also able to attend weekly cooking demonstrations to learn from the expert chefs at the Lodge.
The Lodge at Woodloch offers an array of wonderful entrees. The Chilean Sea Bass is prepared with a cauliflower puree and served with grilled asparagus and roasted beet jus. The Seafood Bouillabaisse features shrimp, mussels, clams, potatoes and a saffron tomato broth. The Herb Roasted Chicken is accompanied by potatoes, baby spinach, and a port wine reduction. The decadent flourless chocolate cake with a savory strawberry sauce is so rich, it deserves its own tax bracket.
Here, dinner is an unforgettable experience, as is the whole weekend getaway. The Lodge at Woodloch is one of the most desirable winter getaways for the 2015 holiday season. Stay tuned for our next article on another luxurious location in the Pocono Mountains
