Erica Abeel

For the Huffington Post Every day, it seems, brings some fresh ugliness from Washington, leaving gloom, anxiety and outright shock in its wake. Happily for New Yorkers, we can find a brief respite from the New Abnormal in spaces throughout the city where beauty flourishes. Take Juilliard and American Ballet Theater, which offer intimate studio performances of dances, as well as a chance to watch a ballet-in-progress.

By Erica Abeel In Anora, director Sean Baker brilliantly sustains a hybrid tone, weaving together LOL comedy, sadness, and rage. Anora, directed by Sean Baker. Screening begins on October 25 at Coolidge Corner Theatre, the Alamo Drafthouse Boston, and AMC Theatres. With certain films you need only hear about the premise or an inspired bit of casting and you’re on board.