NYC/MQ Centerstage - Winter 2024

NYC/ MQ CENTERSTAGE

Day in the Life of a BROADWAY STAR

With Broadway Actress, Jasmine Forsberg

New York’s Best

EATS AND HIDDEN GEMS

As told by NYC’s Tastemakers

Times Square’s LEADING LADIES

THE HEART OF THE CITY. THE

CONTENTS

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From Dan’s Desk

Day in the Life of a Broadway Star: With Broadway Actress, Jasmine Forsberg

New York’s Best: Eats and Hidden Gems as told by NYC’s Tastemakers

Romance in the Heart of the City: Elevate Your Valentine’s Day with these Romantic Offers and Events

Times Square’s Leading Ladies

These Local Female Leaders are Bringing Art, Food and Culture to the Crossroads of the World Seasonal Events

From

DESK DAN’S

AREA GENERAL MANAGER

Welcome to our latest newsletter, a little piece of the New York Marriott Marquis that we’re delighted to share with you. As we find ourselves in the quieter season of winter, there’s a unique charm to New York City. The bustling streets of Times Square take on a different glow, and even without a grand snow spectacle, the city offers serene moments that are rare at other times of the year. From personal strolls in the tranquil expanses of Central Park to exploring cozy nooks in our neighborhood, the city never ceases to surprise and delight.

In this edition, we’re excited to bring you a curated selection of hidden gems around the city, as recommended by some of our favorite influencers. These spots promise new discoveries and adventures, even for the most seasoned New Yorkers.

This March, we also take a moment to celebrate Women’s History Month, paying tribute to the remarkable women who have shaped our past and continue to inspire our future. Our focus this year is particularly close to home, highlighting the incredible women of Broadway. With the Tony-winning musical SIX as a vibrant backdrop, we explore the narratives of powerful women, both on stage and behind the scenes. Our conversation with Jasmine Forsberg, who portrays Jane Seymour in SIX, offers a glimpse into the life of a Broadway star and

DANIEL NADEAU AREA GENERAL MANAGER

“

...paying tribute to the remarkable women who have shaped our past and continue to inspire our future.

the resilience and passion that drive her. We look forward to welcoming you to our hotel, whether you’re planning a late winter getaway or anticipating the fresh beginnings of spring. And who knows, perhaps we’ll get to share the magic of a snowy day in the city together. Let’s embrace the beauty of this season, with all its subtleties and surprises, as we continue to make new memories in the heart of New York.

DAY IN THE LIFE OF A BROADWAY STAR

With Broadway Actress, Jasmine Forsberg

Broadway, full of captivating performances and dazzling lights, has long been intertwined with enchantment. The thrill of world-class performances – from being swept away by heartwarming tales of romance or left breathless by a perfectly choreographed performance. These stars pour their hearts into each performance, delivering mesmerizing shows night after night. But who are these remarkable individuals, and what draws them to the world of Broadway? We sat down with Jasmine Forsberg, best known for her role as Jane Seymour in Broadway’s “Six the Musical”, to see what brought her to Broadway, and what keeps her busy when she’s not on stage.

Jasmine Forsberg from the hit musical SIX and Here Lies Love.

Q: CAN YOU SHARE A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND? WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN THEATER?

A: I discovered my passion for performing at a very young age. When I was three, I took dance and piano lessons in the suburbs of Chicago. By the time my family moved down to Florida at age six, I started voice lessons and auditioned for my first musical — 101 Dalmatians. Orlando is a breeding ground for art and culture. It felt like a beautiful steppingstone to building my life in the artistic capital of the world — New York City!

Q: REFLECTING ON YOUR BROADWAY CAREER, ARE THERE SPECIFIC MOMENTS OR PERFORMANCES THAT HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN YOUR HEART?

A: I made my Broadway debut in Here Lies Love. The show made history as the first all-Filipino cast on Broadway. Being a part of such a groundbreaking musical while sharing my culture’s history every night is an experience I wouldn’t trade for the entire world.

Q: WHAT DOES A TYPICAL PERFORMANCE DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU, FROM THE TIME YOU WAKE UP TO SHOWTIME?

A: Typically, I wake up around 9am, make breakfast, head to the gym and either it’s supplemental strength exercises or yoga for active recovery. My afternoon agenda may include a voice lesson or a press event. While the rest of NYC is starting their homeward commute, I head to the Lena Horne Theatre to prepare for the show.

Q: WHAT MAKES NYC A SPECIAL PLACE TO VISIT DURING THE WINTER MONTHS? (JAN-MARCH)

A: The abundance of art, museums, attractions, and shows that are available. From the Met to the Museum of Ice Cream, Madame Tussauds to Six the Musical, there’s something for everyone here in the winter.

“

I made my Broadway debut in Here Lies Love. The show made history as the first all-Filipino cast on Broadway.

Q: CAN YOU SHARE ANY MEMORABLE FAN ENCOUNTERS?

A: I’ve met audience members from New Zealand to Brazil to the Philippines, and it’s always amazing to see the sense of community that art and theater bring into our lives.

Q: HAVE YOU EVER HAD A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE OR STAY AT THE NEW YORK MARRIOTT MARQUIS? IF SO, WHAT WAS YOUR "MARQUIS MOMENT"?

A: In 2021, I was invited to perform in Times Square for the “Songs for Our City” songwriting competition. I could feel the energy as we neared the light at the end of the Lincoln Tunnel. Sharing this energy with my friends makes the memory even more special. Though I live in the city now, I’m looking forward to making more memories at the Marquis!

Meet and dine with Jasmine or any of the other SIX queens with the Broadway Bound Dining Package in partnership with Broadway Plus!

The Broadway Bound Dining Package includes dinner and a show for you and one guest with a Broadway star, like Jasmine. Broadway Plus is the official provider of SIX VIP Meet-&-Greet Experiences and Custom Events. Through Broadway Plus, fans can also request video shoutouts, meet-&-greets, oneon-one coaching, private concerts, dinner with an artist, and more with Jasmine and thousands of other Broadway artists.

Photo Cred: Joan Marcus

Photo Cred: Rebecca J. Michelson

NEW YORK’S BEST

EATS AND HIDDEN GEMS AS TOLD BY NYC’S INFLUENTIAL TASTEMAKERS

We surveyed influential tastemakers in New York City to discover their top dining and must-visit spots. Find out where these trendsetters love to indulge their taste buds, explore the city’s most captivating attractions and more.

LAURA GIROMINI (@VIVERENEWYORK)

Laura, the mind behind VivereNewYork, boasts a thriving NYC community with 200K+ members. Since 2007, Laura has shared a decade’s worth of unique NYC experiences on her blog and social media channels for all to enjoy the city’s best.

MUST-VISIT MARKETS/STORES

Union Square Greenmarket - Farmer’s market in Union Square Park.

Beacon’s Closet - Thrift store with multiple locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Chelsea Market - Farmers market located in Chelsea.

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS

Norma - Sicilian restaurant

Loulou - French restaurant

Sottocasa - Neapolitan pizza restaurant

Sottocasa

Brooklyn Bridge Park

NOEL CALINGASAN (@NYCLOVESNYC)

Noel is a retired neuroscientist from the Philippines who visually documents his New York City experiences on social media.

HIDDEN GEMS

Museum at Eldridge Street Ford Foundation Building Garden

Greenacre Park

Roosevelt Island Tram Ride

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS

La Grande Boucherie - French restaurant

Reyna - Mediterranean restaurant

Osteria57 - Italian restaurant

Photo Cred: Noel Calingasan

KELLY KOPP (@NEWYORKCITYKOPP)

Kelly is a 55-year-old Orlando native turned NYC photographer. His work’s in NYC Photography Books and the Statue of Liberty Museum. As a tour business owner, Kelly captures clients against stunning NYC backdrops, inspired by Ansel Adams.

TRANSPORTATION TIPS

Only take the subway. It’s the fastest and easiest. I’ve had no issues or been concerned for my safety.

MUST-TRY LOCAL DISHES

Banana Pudding at Magnolia Bakery

Junior’s Restaurant Cheesecake

Pastrami Sandwich at Katz’s

Cronut from Dominique Ansel Bakery

Photo Cred: Kelly Kopp

GOSIA BRZOSTOWSKI (@GLAMOFNYC)

Gosia is the creator of @glamofnyc, a NYCbased travel and lifestyle content creator. Gosia is passionate about showcasing NYC’s beauty and travel experiences. Her posts offer insightful tips for fellow wanderers. Explore more on glamofnyc.com.

BEST SPOTS FOR SCENIC VIEWS

Dumbo (Pebble Beach, Manhattan Lookout)

Long Island City (Hunter’s Point South Park)

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS

PJ Clarke’s - American restaurant

Rue 57 - European restaurant with an Asian flair BONDST - Japanese restaurant

Photo Cred: Gosia Brzostowski

Photo Cred: Gosia Brzostowski

Photo Cred: Gosia Brzostowski

TIMES LEADINGSQUARE’S LADIES

These Local Female Leaders are Bringing Art, Food and Culture to the Crossroads of the World

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we highlight impactful women leaders shaping Times Square’s landscape. Explore how these visionaries are leaving their mark in our ‘front yard’.

Q: WHAT KEY EXPERIENCES SHAPED YOUR JOURNEY TO YOUR CURRENT LEADERSHIP ROLE?

A: I started in photography with a passion for storytelling through my lens. Over the years, I honed my skills and opened a studio in Times Square, mastering the ins and outs of independent business management, becoming a resilient leader.

Q: WHICH FEMALE FIGURES HAVE INFLUENCED YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?

A: My grandmother’s entrepreneurial spirit profoundly influenced my leadership style. She started her own business over 25 years ago, leaving an indelible mark on me. I embraced the belief in charting one’s own course. Her story continues to fuel my determination.

Q: HOW DOES WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP POSITIVELY IMPACT THE BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY, IN YOUR OPINION?

A: Women in leadership bring diverse perspectives, fostering inclusive environments that enhance creativity, decision-making and inspire the next generation of female professionals.

[My clients] experience the embodiment of a womenowned business thriving in the heart of Times Square.

Q: WHAT UNIQUE ASPECTS OF YOUR BUSINESS DO YOU THINK WOULD APPEAL TO TOURISTS, ESPECIALLY IN THE CONTENT OF WOMEN HISTORY MONTH?

A: What sets my studio apart is the genuine love and passion I have for what I do. My clients can expect more than just a photo session; they experience the embodiment of a womenowned business thriving in the heart of Times Square. It’s about creating an experience that reflects the essence of their journey.

Capture moments from your trip to the Big Apple with Ann.

ANN MESHCHERI CEO AND FOUNDER OF TIMES SQUARE PHOTO STUDIO VISIT WEBSITE

Photo Cred: Ann Meshcheri

JASMINE GERALD

OWNER OF JASMINE’S CARIBBEAN CUISINE AND S’AMIR NYC

S’Aimer

NYC in Times Square

Q: COULD YOU SHARE A FEW KEY EXPERIENCES THAT LED YOU TO WHERE YOU ARE AND YOUR CURRENT LEADERSHIP ROLE?

A: My journey to open Jasmine’s Caribbean Cuisine, fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit and a beauty/ service industry background. The Times Square location aims to revive vibrancy and showcase my culture.

Q: WHO ARE THE FEMALE FIGURES THAT HAVE INSPIRED AND INFLUENCED YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?

A: My family, especially my mother and grandmother, inspires my entrepreneurial spirit. I saw my mother run a French restaurant, and my grandmother succeed in her pottery business in the Virgin Islands.

Q: IN YOUR OPINION, HOW DOES HAVING WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP POSITIVELY INFLUENCE THE BUSINESS AND THE INDUSTRY AS A WHOLE?

A: It serves as a way to inspire and show other young women that these doors are open for them. We’re paving the way and want to make it clear that it is possible for them to succeed in this male-dominated industry because I’ve done it, and they can do it too.

The Times Square location aims to revive vibrancy and showcase my culture.

Q: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE EXPERIENCE EXPANDING AND OPENING A SECOND RESTAURANT, PARTICULARLY IN SUCH A PROMINENT LOCATION LIKE TIMES SQUARE?

A: Jasmine’s Caribbean Cuisine opened during the peak of COVID-19 to rejuvenate the city, while S’Aimer NYC faced its own challenges launching in June 2023 on Restaurant Row. Jasmine’s is vibrant, familyfriendly, while S’Aimer NYC is laid-back and sophisticated.

Check out Jasmine’s two restaurants here on Restaurant Row in Times Square.

S’Aimer NYC - A laid-back and sophisticated speakeasy vibe. Jasmine’s Caribbean Cuisine - A vibrant, family-friendly environment.

ROMANCE IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

ELEVATE YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY WITH THESE ROMANTIC OFFERS AND EVENTS

Valentine’s Day becomes truly enchanting in the world’s greatest city, where love fills the air, and magical moments unfold against the backdrop of breathtaking scenes.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Times Square, adding an extraordinary chapter to your love story.

HOTEL OFFERINGS

VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER AT BROADWAY LOUNGE

Indulge in 3-course prix-fixe, live music, and panoramic Times Square views. Tap to reserve your table.

PERSONALIZED VALENTINE’S DAY BILLBOARD MESSAGE

Enhance your evening with a special message to your sweetheart on Times Square’s largest indoor billboard, located inside the New York Marriott Marquis. Tap to reserve.

VALENTINE’S DAY GUESTROOM PACKAGE

Surprise your sweetheart with a memorable stay in the heart of the city. Book our ‘Love in Times Square’ hotel package and cozy up with a bottle of bubbly and late checkout. Book Now.

LOCAL OFFERINGS

SURPRISE PROPOSALS

Make your proposal special by surprising your significant other on one of Times Square’s iconic screens. Learn more.

WEDDINGS IN THE SQUARE

Want an unforgettable wedding?

Register for the chance to get married on Valentine’s Day in Times Square. Learn more.

RENEWAL OF VOWS

Renew your vows in a unique tour-delove ceremony! Couples of all ages and backgrounds, including those breaking boundaries, are invited. Learn more.

Photo Cred: Liz Ligon for the Times Square Alliance

SEASONAL EVENTS

CELEBRATE

WINTER 2024

Celebrate in the center of it all

VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER AT BROADWAY LOUNGE

Ignite your Valentine’s Day at Broadway Lounge! Indulge in 3-course prix-fixe, live music, and panoramic Times Square views.

Visit OpenTable for reservations

HOT COCOA FOR TWO

Craft your own perfect hot cocoa! Sprinkle crushed candy cane, drizzle with hot chocolate syrup, top with whipped cream, and finish with a pirouette.

Tap to secure your reservation

BRYANT PARK WINTER VILLAGE

Explore unique vendors, glide on the ice, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Open till March 3rd.

Read more about the many offerings

THE MUSEUM OF BROADWAY

Immerse yourself in Broadway’s history at the Museum of Broadway – a must for theater lovers!

Book your spot

ST PATRICK’S DAY SIGNATURE COCKTAIL

Sip tradition this St Patrick’s Day at Revel & Rye Bar and Restaurant, located inside the New York Marriott Marquis - raise an Old Fashioned cocktail to celebrate good luck!

Make a reservation

SPRING 2024

Celebrate in the center of it all

EASTER BRUNCH BUFFET AND EGG HUNT

Join us for an Easter celebration at the Broadway Lounge in the New York Marriott Marquis on Sunday, 3/31, where we’ll be hosting our inaugural egg hunt during our annual Easter Brunch.

Book your table using this link

SWISH! WATCH THE GAMES ON 50 FT TV SCREENS

Catch the big games this March on Times Square’s largest indoor billboard at New York Marriott Marquis. Dive into wings, pizza, and a bucket of ice-cold beers - the ultimate college basketball experience.

Secure your spot

POETRY MONTH POP-UP

Spring into poetic bliss this Poetry Month and don’t miss the celebration of language and rhythm.

Don’t miss out - sign up for updates and be the first to know

THE WIZ AT THE MARQUIS

Embark on this magical journey at the Marquis Theater, located inside the New York Marriott Marquis. Prepare to be dazzled and mesmerized by this fresh. soulful new tale.

Secure your tickets

CHERRY BLOSSOMS

Embrace spring’s charm at the go-to cherry blossom and blooming flower locations across the city.

Design your own walking tour with these key spots

TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL

An extravaganza spotlighting diverse films, from features to documentaries, creating a global stage for cutting-edge storytelling.

Book your passes today