WSN031214

NYU’s Daily Student Newspaper

WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS Vol. 42, No. 24

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014

nyunews.com

Measles outbreak spreads in NYC

By NEELA QADIR

FELIPE DE LA HOZ/WSN

Demonstrators in Union Square demand justice for slain Turkish child.

Berkin Elvan, 15, was hit in the head with a tear gas canister and remained in a coma for nine months until passing away in a Turkish hospital on Tuesday. His death has revived protests in Istanbul, which has been the site of unrest since last summer. For more photos, visit WSN’s photo blog, Exposure, at nyunews.tumblr.com.

Alum’s documentary explores adolescence While the adolescent experience has been documented countless times on screen and in fiction, the origin and history of these adventures is explored less often. Documentary filmmaker and NYU alumnus Matt Wolf details the birth of youth culture in his latest project, “Teenage.” Presenting a personal and commemorative homage to all young adults, the film succeeds in celebrating the transformation and nostalgia of growing up.

“Teenage” presents a comprehensive narrative of adolescence from its inception at the turn of

the 20th century to the dawn of rebellion in the early 1950s. Wolf looked to punk author Jon Savage’s nonfiction book, “Teenage: The Creation of Youth Culture,” as inspiration for the film.

Wolf spoke with WSN about his process in creating this film.

“I was a big fan of Jon’s work before I even thought about a movie like this,” Wolf said. “What I liked about [the book] was that it painted an excellent picture of a different time and place, and even more importantly, of the culture of that time. I appreciate hidden histories, and to me the emergence of adolescence was

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MEASLES continued on PG. 3

‘No Exit’ too familiar to impress

By CLIO MCCONNELL

Most people who believe in Hell agree that it is a place of constant suffering. But JeanPaul Sartre’s classic play “No Exit” defies those who think a devil with horns and a pitchfork is causing the suffering.

“No Exit” is not a hellish piece of theater. Rather than being a pain to sit through, the play is quite entertaining to watch. This existential drama focuses on the damned, specifically three recently deceased “guests” who have just checked into the lodgings in which they will endure a torturous afterlife.

When the play begins, Cradeau, Inez and Estelle — played by Bradford Cover, Jolly Abraham and Sa-

meerah Luqmaan-Harris, respectively — are as much strangers to each other as they are to the audience. Over the course of 100 minutes viewers watch them become intimately acquainted, discussing their crimes and regrets in excru-

COURTESY OF PEARL ACTING COMPANY

Sartre’s classic features self-absorbed characters.

ciating detail. They come to terms with death in very different ways, but each character is ultimately resigned to his or her fate in the end.

Their journey is an interesting trajectory to witness. To accept one’s own damnation is an emotional rollercoaster, and these actors present an impressive array of passions, from fear to fury to frustration. The problem is that audience members are not asked, or at least not convinced, to identify with any of the characters on stage.

Although many plays involve nothing more than a sparse set and several people onstage yelling at each other, they pack more punch than “No Exit” does. Edward Albee and Tennessee

EXIT continued on PG. 5

Efforts to support trans students

Fashion Week around the world

Venezuela misrepresented

NYC Dept. of Education makes guidelines to protect transgender students.

A review of Fashion Week in New York, London, Milan and Paris.

Poor media coverage and political education have distorted American perspectives.

TRANS on PG. 3

VIA FLICKR.COM

By NORA BLAKE

The New York City Department of Health confirmed yesterday that the measles outbreak has increased from 16 confirmed patients to 19 in areas including Manhattan, the Bronx and Brooklyn.

A department spokesperson said cases range from those who are 3 months to 63 years old.

“Nineteen cases have been confirmed to date — nine pediatric cases and 10 adult cases,” the spokesperson said. “Residents from Manhattan, the Bronx and Brooklyn have acquired measles, but the outbreak remains centered in northern Manhattan. Five hospitalizations have occurred as a result of this outbreak.”

The measles is a respiratory virus, and symptoms include a blotchy rash, fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes and white spots with bluish-white centers found inside the mouth. Serious

FASHION WEEK on PG. 4

HINTON on PG. 7

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WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014 | NYUNEWS.COM

ON THE SIDE

COMPILED BY THE

WSN STAFF

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Editor-in-Chief NICOLE BROWN Managing Editor

MICHAEL DOMANICO

Allison Winter

Deputy Managing Editor

CASEY DALRYMPLE

Allison is a second-year masters student in the Silver School of Social Work.

Assistant Managing Editors

TATIANA BAEZ JONATHAN KESHISHOGLOU Creative Director

CICEK EREL

Special Editions Director

got any plans for spring break?

LYANNE NATIVIDAD SENIOR STAFF

“I’m going to Brazil with my husband.”

news KAVISH HARJAI, ANN SCHMIDT arts CLIO MCCONNELL features BRYNA SHUMAN sports FRANCISCO NAVAS multimedia FELIPE DE LA HOZ copy THOMAS DEVLIN, PAIGE MANKIN web KIMBERLY HART, BENSON TSAI,

LAVYA YALAMANCHI senior editors TONY CHAU, ARIANA DIVALENTINO, MICHELLE LIM, STEFAN MELNYK, NEELA QADIR, DANIEL YEOM

DEPUTY STAFF

news LARSON BINZER, SCOTT MULLEN books/theater DYLAN JARRETT film IFE OLUJOBI entertainment BOB TEOH music JAKE FOLSOM the highlighter blog VALERIE NELSON features HANNAH TREASURE beauty & style DANA RESZUTEK violet vision blog GIANNA COLLIER-PITTS dining CHANDLER WEST sports CHRIS MARCOTRIGIANO multimedia HANNAH LUU, LAWRENCE WU video ALEX LINZMEIER

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TODAY ON CAMPUS

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JILLIAN BRANCHAUD

Restraints on Nonprofits Activist and author Dan Pollotta, founder and chief humanity officer of Advertising for Humanity, will be speaking today about how nonprofits can change the world. The event will take place at Tisch Hall in the Paulson Auditorium at 6:30 to 8 p.m.

SALES ASSOCIATES

EMMA HOWCROFT, AMY LU, ANA SCHULER, BENJAMIN SWINEHART, JESSICA TIEN

ADVISING

Ukraine and Russia The NYU Jordan Center for the Advanced Study of Russia will hold a discussion today on the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The event will take place at 19 University Place from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Women’s Day

This week’s snapshot theme is warmth. Here is today’s interpretation.

The Wagner Student Alliance for Africa will hold an International Women’s Day health panel about the well-being of girls worldwide. The event will be held in the Global Center for Academic and Spiritual Life in the Grand Hall from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

PHOTO BY TONY CHAU TODAY’S EVENTS ARE FREE FOR NYU STUDENTS.

GOT AN EVENT? EMAIL US AT AGENDA@NYUNEWS.COM OR TWEET US @NYUNEWS. GOT SOMETHING TO SHARE? EMAIL US AT TIPS@NYUNEWS.COM.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

NANCI HEALY EDITORS-AT-LARGE

HANQING CHEN, JONATHON DORNBUSH, RACHEL KAPLAN, JORDAN MELENDREZ, JONATHAN TAN About WSN: Washington Square News (ISSN 15499389) is the student newspaper of New York University. WSN is published Monday through Thursday during NYU’s academic year, except for university holidays, vacations and exam periods.

Corrections: WSN is committed to accurate reporting. When we make errors, we do our best to correct them as quickly as possible. If you believe we have erred, contact managing editor Michael Domanico at managing@nyunews.com or at 212.998.4302.

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NYUNEWS.COM | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014 | WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS

Unemployment in New York City dips to five-year low

By ANDREW SPOHN

According to the latest statistics released at the end of last week, unemployment in New York City has dropped below 8 percent for the first time since 2009. The rate now stands at 7.8 percent, the result of a long decline over the last few years.

James Brown, the principal economist in the Division of Research & Statistics at the New York State Department of Labor, said the leading cause for the decrease in the unemployment rate is job growth over the past few years.

“Nationally, there was also the factor of a shrinking labor force, but in fact, New York City’s labor force active in the job market has been growing,” Brown said.

The job growth in the city is spread throughout many sectors. Brown said the strongest growth is in

health care and home services.

Professional and business services — such as lawyers, engineers, accountants, and architects — are also seeing positive job growth.

Politics professor Lawrence Mead said the public needs to be aware of unemployment politics when analyzing recent figures.

“The politics of unemployment causes politicians to view the unemployed as not being able to get a job,” Mead said “Many of these people could easily get jobs, say at McDonalds, but they are being more selective in wages.”

Brown said the latest numbers do not provide information on how college graduates are faring in 2014, but according to recent trends, opportunity is dependent on the field of study of a graduating student. Despite being hit hard by the economic recession

FELIPE DE LA HOZ/WSN

Professor Mead does not credit de Blasio with the statistics.

of 2008, young graduates are being hired in the computer industry and the public relations field, while graduates breaking into other sectors face a tougher job market.

“One area that is not doing particularly well is the finance sector, which is usually the leader in up-turns,” he said.

“So if you’re coming out looking for a finance job, you’re going to find it harder than in some other areas.”

Both Brown and Mead said educated people are more employable, and Mead also said the average NYU graduate is employable.

Poly senior Andy Yeung said he is confident in applying for engineering jobs in the city.

“The Polytechnic School of Engineering did not prepare me to become an engineer to make money in [the] future,” Yeung said. “It provided an environment for me to learn problem solving, allowing me to choose the jobs I want ... when I graduate.”

Brown said the decrease in unemployment rates looks promising for the future.

“The rate should continue to drop since the market has been adding jobs at 2 to 2.5 percent rate and the supply of labor is only growing at about 1 percent,” Brown said. “So, unless the national or local economy dramatically U-turns in the next few months, the unemployment rate should continue to trend downward.”

Andrew Spohn is a staff writer. Email him at news@nyunews.com.

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MEASLES continued from PG. 1

New York City measles outbreak jumps from 16 reported cases to 19

complications from measles include pneumonia, brain inflammation and death.

Epidemiology professor James Stark said travelers from different areas may have infected others in New York.

“Measles is endemic in [other parts] of the world and travelers come to New York City from … places where immunization is not consistent,” Stark said.

The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is given to children to prevent such outbreaks. The first vaccine should be given by the time a child is 12 months old and the second dose should be given around the age of four to six.

Carlo Ciotoli, associate vice president and executive director of the NYU Student Health Center, said every NYU student must present a record of their vaccination before they enter the university. Students who are not vaccinated are prone to being infected by measles.

“Given the high rates of MMR vaccination among NYU students the likelihood of measles among our student population is very low,” Ciotoli said. “This high rate of vaccination is in contrast to those individuals in New York City who have been recently infected with measles, where rates of documented MMR immunization were much lower.”

LS sophomore and epidemiology student Genesis Almanzar said she is not concerned about the measles outbreak.

“If enough NYU students work with children, there is a possibility of it reaching NYU,” Almanzar said. “We should all have had our measles vaccine so I’m not afraid of getting it.”

Fordham University recently had

AVITAL GLIBICKY FOR WSN

NYU students are vaccinated against the measles before matriculating. a mumps outbreak infecting about 13 people on its two campuses. Ciotoli said the recent mumps outbreak at Fordham should encourage students to make sure their vaccination still shows immunity.

Students can check immunity to the viruses by running a blood test.

“The recent outbreak of mumps at Fordham University and the outbreak of measles in New York City again highlight the critical importance of our students being fully vaccinated,” Ciotoli said.

Jason McDonald, the spokesman for the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said before the measles vaccinations became commonplace, three to four million people in the United States were infected every year. Since the introduction of the vaccine, there has been a 99 percent reduction in measles and only 55 reported cases in 2012.

“It is important to take a moment and reflect on the value of vaccines,” Stark said. “It’s amazing in how far we have come in that millions of cases of childhood disease have been averted due to vaccines.”

The Department of Health said it will be providing updated measles case numbers every Tuesday.

Neela Qadir is a senior editor.

Email her at nqadir@nyunews.com.

Dept. of Ed. releases guidelines for protecting trans students

By KAVISH HARJAI

The New York City Department of Education revealed guidelines that protect the interest and safety of transgender students in public schools on March 10. “‘Transgender’ is a term which describes people whose gender identity or gender expression is different from their assigned sex at birth,” according to the NYC DOE guidelines.

Marge Feinberg, deputy press secretary of the DOE, said the guidelines will help provide guidance to schools to support transgender youth.

The guidelines were put in place to make transgender students socially and educationally comfortable in a school setting. They arch over a wide array of issues that affect transgender students such as privacy, naming, using the correct pronouns, bathroom and locker room accessibility, sports and

physical education participation and gender segregation.

If the student and their family wish to keep their gender identity private, the school personnel and faculty is encouraged to maintain the student’s confidentiality. However, if the student and family wish to be open about their gender identity, then the school will work with the family and outside resources to inform peers and other school personnel.

According to the guidelines, schools are recommended to use preferred names and gender identities on records that do not require a legal name or gender, such as student IDs. The preferred names and pronouns of students should also be reflected in how peers and school faculty refer to the student.

Students do not need to attain a court order or gender change to be called their preferred name or pronoun.

Steinhardt freshman Allie

Brunner, who is majoring in childhood education, said she acknowledges this step as progress but she said more needs to be done to combat bullying.

“It will help make children feel more comfortable in their school setting and hopefully will encourage students and faculty to be more accepting of them,” Brunner said. “Antibullying workshops and discussions regarding acceptance would be the next important step forward for these schools.”

Steinhardt freshman Courtney Smotkin, who is majoring in childhood education and psychology, agreed with Brunner.

“These provisions outlined in the article are a big step in the right direction,” Smotkin said.

“But we still have a way to go before students who are exploring their gender identities will feel comfortable and safe doing so, which is ultimately what we want to become a reality.”

The guidelines regarding trans-

gender youth and sports suggest that generally, students should be able to participate in sports that are in accordance with their gender identity. However, whether a student can compete in competitive athletics and contact sports, will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

Michael Silverman, executive director of the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund, said while these provisions are beneficial, students should not be excluded from sports because of their gender identity.

“The value of teamwork and fair play that students learn by participating in school sports are just as important to transgender students as they are to all students so I do not think we need to start from a position of carving out certain types of sports,” Silverman said.

The guidelines also indicate that each school will have different experiences with transgender students and should

consult with the families of students and outside sources if they need to.

Kavish Harjai is a news editor.

Email him at kharjai@nyunews.com.

VIA WIKIPEDIA.ORG

Transgender students continue to face obstacles.

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WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014 | NYUNEWS.COM

BEAUTY & STYLE

EDITED BY DANA RESZUTEK BSTYLE@NYUNEWS.COM

Global Fashion Week foreshadows new trends

By DAVID BOLOGNA

Fall 2014 is set to bring an era of comfort and simplicity back into fashion.

Knits, hand-mades, bold coats and flat boots are sure to be some of the most coveted pieces in this upcoming fall season.

The trends in New York, London, Milan and Paris — which held its shows last week — each offered a unique interpretation on fashion’s latest theme.

Leading the pack was none other than New York Fashion Week with its knits. Everyone can utilize the knit sweater, seen in a variation of styles, during the cold city winters. Match it with an oversized scarf, which was also popular in many collections. Marc Jacobs sent models down the runway in matching knit tops and pants with ribbed details. Michael Kors utilized his knits with knee-length hemlines in skirts and with a an oversized cardigan dress. Calvin Klein turned heads with an entire collection devoted to knits, including full dresses, skirts and sleeveless turtlenecks, in a multitude of juxtaposition of vibrant and muted colors.

London took on the most daring trend out of the four cities with designers using a handmade approach to their collections.

Mary Katrantzou moved away from the computer-based prints she is famous for to showcase various textiles from patchwork sweaters to sequined and patched knee cropped dresses. Burberry Prorsum also exhibited exquisite craftsmanship in their fall collection. Jackets, dresses and ponchos were structured perfectly and paired with their signature throw blanket placed on the model’s right shoulder.

These pieces were accessorized with a standout line of hand-painted bags to complete the strong line.

Milan showed the world that gaudiness still thrives in the hearts of some fashionistas. In Prada’s refined line, tanned leather coats in an array of hues were accented with complementary-colored trims of fur on the collars and sleeves. Marni’s sporty

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P O T

collection showed an exaggeratedly large white fur with huge cobalt, peach and coral accent spots. Fashion certainly retained its flair in these two collections.

Finally, the City of Lights issued the way for the return of a flat to the runway.

Celine has become a crucial collection in Paris, and with its creative director Phoebe Philo playing on menswear for women always creates a stir. While the collection featured a towering flatform sandal, a white bootie and patent leather flat boot snuck its way underneath boot cut pants.

Alexander McQueen shocked viewers without a single heel and only a variation on a fur pom-pom embellished combat boot. Saint Laurent takes the prize though with endless pairs of standout shoes. Whether in beige suede, studded leather, or a bold ruby glitter, the boots were a hit with critics and the public.

The most interesting feature of the various fashion weeks is that a more comfortable and humanistic approach to clothing seems to be returning. While digital prints can create beautiful canvases, it seems that human handiwork can and will do the same for Fall 2014.

David Bologna is a staff writer.

Email him at bstyle@nyunews.com.

VIA FLICKR.COM

Simplicity is a big trend this season.

How to avoid harmful chemicals in beauty products

By REBECCA RIDDLE

Between hair-care products, lotions, makeup, soaps and other beauty staples, girls expose themselves to a variety of chemicals on a daily basis. Unfortunately, many of these products can come with significant health risks.

Though cosmetics must list the ingredients they contain, the ingredients are not subject to FDA regulation. Instead, the FDA regulates the product.

Therefore, consumers must pay close attention to the ingredient labels. No one wants to give up their beloved beauty products, but there are certain chemicals that should be avoided, and steps that can be taken to limit exposure.

Parabens, which act as preservatives in makeup, moisturizers, shaving creams and other products, are alarmingly common and can be hazardous to health. Parabens can disrupt normal hormone function, leading to an increased risk of breast cancer because they mimic estrogen. Some studies have also linked parabens to disruptions in the male reproductive system and have also established possible links to skin cancer.

Parabens are so common that it is nearly impossible to avoid them altogether, but luckily many companies are now marketing parabenfree products, making it easier to avoid exposure. It

is especially important to avoid paraben in products that cover larger areas of the body, such as body lotion.

Burt’s Bee’s Fragrance Free Body Lotion is a parabenfree option that also offers the benefits of natural Shea Butter and Vitamin E ($13).

Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, are potentially hazardous due to possible contamination from dangerous byproducts during the manufacturing process.

These sulfates give products the ability to foam and are often used in shampoos.

While research has been inconclusive on whether the sulfates used in beauty products cause cancer, these sulfates do have to ability to cause skin and eye irritation.

Products containing sulfates should not stay on the skin for long and should be rinsed off as quickly as possible. Due to the increased awareness and skepticism about these chemicals’ safety, many new sulfatefree shampoos have emerged on the market. Until recently, sulfate-free shampoos were only available from expensive salon brands, but L’Oreal and Aveeno now both have lines of sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners which also help preserve colortreated hair ($7-8).

Formaldehyde, a toxic and cancer-causing substance, is used in cosmetics to prevent bacterial contamination. Many cosmetics also contain chemicals called formaldehyde releasers, which release small

amounts of formaldehyde over time. Nail polishes and nail strengthening treatments commonly contain formaldehyde, so try to buy formaldehyde-free nail polish such as Zoya’s line of polishes ($9). When using regular nail polish, make sure to apply it in a well-ventilated area in order to reduce the amount of formaldehyde you inhale. Hair-smoothing treatments, such as the popular Brazilian Blowout, have also been found to contain high levels of the chemical.

The risk of formaldehyde should always be taken into serious consideration.

Rebecca Riddle is a contributing writer. Email her at bstyle@nyunews.com.

VIA WIKIPEDIA.ORG

Nail polish and treatments contain formaldehyde.

Strategies for preventing ripped tights susceptible to rips and tears.

Here are some easy DIY methods on how to fix and prevent tears to help make all your pairs last the whole season.

By HELEN OWOLABI

Nail Polish

It is always frustrating to buy a pair of trendy tights, only to find a pesky hole or tear in them within the next few days. In one season you can easily find yourself going through a dozen pairs of tights. They are the perfect accessories for the winter season, with some pairs coming in thick and warm textures. But as the winter weather starts to fade and the warm weather of spring finally comes our way, it will be time to sport the even less-durable, thin pairs. Despite being a great addition to many outfits, sheer tights are the most

Nail polish is probably the most common way to mend any hole or run that appears in a pair of tights or pantyhose.

Any color nail polish can work, but clear is best because it will not clash with the color of your tights. Simply apply the polish around all the edges of the hole — this will prevent it from growing any larger. It is best not to wear your tights while applying polish. Be sure to wait long enough for the nail polish to dry and keep a washcloth or polish remover at hand for any accidental spills.

Hairspray

Hairspray is another quick and easy method to prevent a run in your tights from getting any larger.

Just spray the entire area around the hole. It is best to do this with your tights off to prevent having any sticky residue on your legs.

Once finished, the hairspray will temporarily stiffen the fibers of your tights. This is a great method to use if you are in a rush, since hairspray dries almost instantly. Be sure to keep away from water because the hairspray will wash off.

Wite-Out If your tear is not in a noticeable area or on a pair of white tights, using Wite-Out is another useful method. Similar to nail polish, simply apply the WiteOut all around the run or hole, and then leave time for the fluid to fully dry. Be sure to stay away from water because Wite-Out can also wash off.

AVITAL GLIBICKY FOR WSN

Many household items can help repair ripped tights.

Snag Removal One method to prevent holes in your tights is to remove any

threads that are sticking out of snagged areas. This method helps prevent the snag from turning into an annoying hole or rip. While wearing your tights, simply pinch the area around the loose thread, and use scissors to cut it off as close to the base as possible.

Extra Pairs If you have several pairs of tights in the same shade, you can easily conserve ruined pairs instead of purchasing more. All you have to do is get two pairs of matching tights and cut off the ruined leg on each pair. Those two pairs can then be worn together, appearing like a perfectly intact single pair of tights.

Helen Owolabi is a staff writer. Email her at bstyle@nyunews.com.

NYUNEWS.COM | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014 | WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS

ARTS

EDITED BY CLIO MCCONNELL ARTS@NYUNEWS.COM TEENAGE continued from PG. 1

Alumnus analyzes past, present youth culture in documentary one of those periods in time that wasn’t really well integrated into our minds.”

Wolf said the themes in Savage’s book are universally related to adolescence. “Teenage” addresses multicultural perspectives on adolescence in varying times and predicaments. The film is comprised of stunning archival material that pairs excellently with journal-like voiceovers that recount a more individual perspective of the times. Actors Jena Malone and Ben Whishaw, among others, provide guiding and insightful narration.

The film could have easily been a study on the contemporary teenager, but Wolf said adolescents impose a profound effect that is impossible to register immediately following their actions.

“Each generation has altered the way we view the world,” said Wolf. “When I was involved in activism when I was a teenager, I didn’t realize the effect it would have later. I was too emotionally invested in it to really reflect on how I was affecting the future.”

Wolf said the tales of beatniks and rockers of the later 20th century, as pivotal as they were to current popular culture, have earned widespread recognition whereas material from an earlier era — enough for dozens more films, he said — is richer with certainty and emotion.

The director’s focus ultimately cre-

ates context and allows the audience to consider the obscure realm of adolescence.

Though the film is a directorial achievement on its own, another notable aspect of Wolf’s project is his choice of music. An intoxicating original soundtrack by Deerhunter frontman Bradford Cox establishes the setting of the film through recognizable beats and also blurs the line between past and present, establishing a poignant and lasting connection with the viewer.

In a way, Wolf ’s entire film accomplishes this connection, embracing the timeless allure of adolescence and broadcasting its triumphs.

Nora Blake is a staff writer.

Email her at film@nyunews.com.

COURTESY OF CINEREACH PRODUCTIONS

“Teenage” explores youth culture during the 20th century.

Lily Allen tells fans to expect more from forthcoming album

By JAKE FOLSOM

British pop provocateur Lily Allen shocked her fans on March 10.

Allen is known as the type to throw curveball comments around in the media — she is particularly notorious for her wild antics during her pink wig phase. Recent remarks by the pop star have caused the stir fans have come to expect.

In response to a comment from a fan on Twitter that her new songs were “docile pop rubbish,” Allen proved candid.

“What you heard so far yes,” Allen tweeted in response. “All I can do is do my best, the labels and the radio stations won’t play the better stuff.”

This remark is the latest in a series of comments that have been discussed in the press and debated across the blogosphere.

Allen’s music video for the song “Hard Out Here” drew controversy for its edgy commentary about race and sex in pop music. She also sparked a dialogue for her alleged remarks in an interview where she questioned whether the feminist movement is necessary in this day and age. Allen later said these comments were misinterpreted, and she was not disparaging feminism in the least.

But Allen’s latest comment, the

‘Stage Kiss’ satirizes theater world

By SUZANNE EGAN

Two nameless actors, a man and a woman, hide behind the stage curtain in an empty theater. Twenty-odd years ago they were lovers. Now they are playing lovers in a musical, and past emotions are climbing to the surface.

The show, which recently opened at Playwrights Horizons, is actually three shows in one.

There is the romance between the actors (played by Jessica Hecht and Dominic Fumusa) and then there are the two plays they perform in — a musical melodrama and a drama about a prostitute and an officer in the Irish Republican Army.

The actors tease each other about how bad the plays are, but the quality puts the audience in a predicament. When two of the three plots are poorly acted and badly written, the overall experience is in jeopardy.

The criticism is not of Sarah Ruhl’s writing. “Stage Kiss” is a theatrical satire as well as a romance, and the weak writing is intentional. Yet this metatheatrical script distracts from what is easily the most compelling part

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of the play — the relationship between the actors.

It is a relief when the actors can be themselves. The performances feel smoother and more authentic, and the dialogue is more powerful, but other elements of the show overpower the relationship.

Many theatrical tricks are employed over the course of the play. There is quite a bit of slapstick, so prepare for tripping, door slamming, some extremely uncomfortable kissing, a clunky monologue divided between the two leads and a seemingly random four-part rendition of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Some Enchanted Evening.”

While the show hits a lot of notes, unfortunately it never quite strikes the right chord.

The play is more successful as a satire than as a romance.

It follows the production process from auditions to rehearsals and performances to reviews. The characters struggle with costume changes and the installation of props. The sight of real stagehands dressing and redressing the stage between scenes provides an

unspoken reminder the audience is watching a parody of a very real process.

The insight into the world of theater is warm and teasing, like an inside joke between an old married couple.

Though the show sometimes stumbles, it is generally successful if considered as a love story not between two actors, but as a commentary about actors’ love of the theater.

“Stage Kiss” is playing at Playwrights Horizons, 416 W. 42nd St., through April 6.

Suzanne Egan is a staff writer. Email her at theater@nyunews.com.

COURTESY OF PLAYWRIGHTS HORIZONS

Two former lovers must act together over 20 years later.

tweet putting down her own music, is particularly shocking. How often is it that we hear a pop star who will openly bash her own current singles?

The remark comes at an interesting moment for Allen. While she has attracted buzz for her comments as per usual, her music itself has not earned the universal praise to which Allen has become accustomed.

Meme-worthy as the “Hard Out Here” video may have been, the song’s message feels wishy-washy compared to Allen’s usual brand of blunt — even vulgar — honesty. It is clear that the song is meant as a statement on how difficult it is for women to be successful in the music industry, but considering her discography, that is not a new proclamation from Allen.

“Hard Out Here” presents a sentiment that many people can agree with — that the entertainment industry is tough on women.

Allen’s better moments have been those in which she nails a thought that fans could sympathize with, but few could express. Where is the Allen who, in her song “Smile,” openly expressed joy at an ex’s emotional agony — the one who said, “When I see you cry it makes me smile”?

Apart from “Hard Out Here,” Allen’s recent tracks have seemed to come from a shadow of her former self. Where the “mockney” drawl of past albums “Alright, Still” and “It’s Not Me, It’s You” was instantly distinctive, her sound on new tracks have mainly drawn comparisons to other artists, like M.I.A. It remains to be seen what Allen has in store with regard to her latest LP, “Sheezus.” As tends to be the case with the unpredictable Allen, the future is anyone’s guess.

Jake Folsom is music editor. Email him at jfolsom@nyunews.com.

VIA WIKIPEDIA.COM

Allen said she will have more say in her next album.

EXIT continued from PG. 1

‘No Exit’ adaptation discourages audience interpretation Williams use the living-room drama format to depict tense interpersonal relationships, and their realism hits harder than Sartre’s figurative presentation.

Director Linda Ames Key shows the audience an awful situation and tells them how awful it is. The scenario presented is very clearly Hell — Sartre’s script hits viewers over the head with the location, making sure they do not mistake it for Earth.

And yet this somehow detracts from the horror of the situation, because they do not have to internalize that horror.

When “No Exit” premiered in 1944 Paris, the concept “hell is other people” was a revolutionary one. Sartre presents a version of eternal damnation that could apply to anyone — there are no specific levels of hell for different crimes. In this torture chamber, “the customers serve themselves.”

However, in the Pearl Theatre Company’s mounting of “No Exit,” which is wholly faithful to the script, it seems as though Hell is one specific room. Locked

into their cage of debris — in a set brilliantly designed by Harry Feiner — Inez blackmails, Estelle preens and Cradeau does his best to ignore them entirely. These people are so self-obsessed that the audience members are caught up in them, forgetting to consider what they would do if they were put in the characters’ places, as Sartre intended.

Perhaps this play is too familiar, with most audience members knowing Sartre’s intent before the curtain goes up. This allows directors to present scenes in a shallow or literal way, even while deep questions are being asked. In this day and age, “No Exit” is a thoroughly entertaining exercise in gallows humor, but it has nowhere near the same shock value as the original production would have.

“No Exit” is playing at the Pearl Theatre Company, 555 W 42nd Street, through March 30.

Clio McConnell is arts editor. Email her at cmcconnell@nyunews.com.

6

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55 Official proceedings

23 Good economic news 25 *“Good night, John-Boy” series 29 ___ of Gibraltar 31 PC key below Home

56 Like a couch potato

33 Lacrosse goalie’s area 36 Do some legpulling

63 Botanical wings 64 Gear-cutting tools 65 Yak, yak, yak

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE H A J J

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5 Muscle car roof option

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6 “Quiet, please!”

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28 Part of a gig 30 Tick off 34 Add ___ of salt 35 One in an upper chamber: Abbr.

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PUZZLE BY TRACY GRAY

37 Ethnic joke, often 47 Catch a few Z’s 38 Secluded spot 48 Following, as one’s beliefs 39 Huff and puff

13 Unit pricing word I 18 Squealed (on) M O 19 Like some Uno cards N 24 Certain econ class Y E 26 Needing hoeing, say S M 27 Leaves home?

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36 Crown inset

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9 “Reading Lolita in ___” (2003 best seller)

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2 Spotted wildcat

8 Multinational bank that sponsored the New York City Marathon

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No. 0205

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7 It may elicit a 6-Down

58 Night on which “60 Minutes” originally aired: Abbr.

59 *“Why am I not surprised?”

32 Pay a call to

Edited by Will Shortz

40 Vert.’s opposite 41 Online “Yikes!”

44 James who was portrayed by Beyoncé

45 Mowers’ paths

49 Shish kebab need

53 Café au lait holder 57 Puppy sounds 59 Cinch ___ (trash bag brand) 60 World Cup chant

51 Analgesics’ targets

61 Long, long time

52 “Well, ___!”

62 Mexican Mrs.

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NYUNEWS.COM | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2014 | WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS

OPINION

EDITED BY PETER KEFFER OPINION@NYUNEWS.COM

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Public needs more education on Venezuela

By DAN HINTON

Poor political education and media coverage have muddied public understanding of the political situation in Venezuela. Public discourse has decidedly equated current events in Venezuela with those happening halfway around the world in Ukraine.

This comparison overlooks the nuance and complexity of both situations and reduces them to headlines and hashtags. It also reflects flaws in liberal theories of pluralism so prevalent in political science departments across the country, especially the NYU Politics Department.

For the past quarter-century, Venezuelan politics have been overtly defined by the classic conflict between rich versus poor, right versus left and capitalism versus democratic socialism.

This political era began in 1989 with El Caracazo — the popular revolts and eventual massacre of poor people protesting against the neoliberal policies of President Carlos Pérez. The political era culminated with the presidency of Chávez from 1999 until his death a year ago. As the leader of what he called the Bolivarian Revolution, Chávez sought socialist policies. He

used revenue from the nationalized oil industry to fund anti-poverty programs, resisted United States interventionist policies in Latin America and organized militant grassroots groups called colectivos as centers of localized participatory democracy. Naturally, Chávez and his supporters became enemies of the Venezuelan capitalist class and the American government.

The anti-government opposition has resorted to violence in the past. In April 2002, anti-Chavista forces attempted a coup d’état which failed shortly thereafter. Chávez resumed power and went on to win every election — including a recall referendum — by majorities much larger than those seen in U.S. presidential elections.

President Nicolás Maduro does not wield as much popular support as Chávez — he narrowly won the presidential election last year. Yet he did so

fairly, and was supported by the same mass constituencies that strongly support democratic socialist policies. The opposition, on the other hand, has refused to recognize the legitimacy of a democratically elected government.

Of course, Venezuela is not without national problems — high inflation rates, high trade deficits and high crime rates plague the country. Yet despite the widespread problems of scarcity and crime that disproportionately hit the poorest Venezuelans, they have been reluctant to join the upper and middle-class street demonstrators.

Poor, indigenous and socialist Venezuelans know what democracy truly looks like. They learned from contemporary history and collective struggles. Unfortunately, their American counterparts have not undergone similar experiences in recent times and, therefore, have not learned the same lessons. Hopefully, Americans will learn about Venezuela’s political climate by turning off cable news and looking toward our neighbors in the south.

Dan Hinton is a contributing columnist. Email him at opinion@nyunews.com.

NATIONAL SECURITY

Intelligence capabilities must heed liberties

By DAN MORITZ-RABSON

Colorado Sen. Mark Udall revealed his knowledge of the CIA internal evaluation of its detention and interrogation program last December, igniting tensions between the Senate Intelligence Committee and the CIA. Udall’s disclosure has emphasized the need for intelligence agencies to strike a balance between preserving national security and heeding individual liberties.

The program, which was created following the Sept. 11 attacks, has been heavily criticized by the Committee, which oversees the CIA. Although President Barack Obama terminated the detention and interrogation program in 2009, the committee requested access to all documents pertaining to the program to evaluate its success in combating terrorism.

Rather than agreeing to this request, the CIA made millions of documents accessible to the Committee in a CIA building, where the Committee reviewed them on a separate network from the one used by the CIA. While the Committee reviewed these documents, the CIA simultaneously conducted its own review of the program, which the Committee ob-

SUBMITTING TO

7

tained without authorization. Udall’s disclosure confirmed suspicions of a security breach. Subsequently, the CIA searched the Committee’s computers for information that would indicate how it obtained the CIA internal report. This action enraged Committee members, who claimed the search was unconstitutional.

The situation is untimely for Obama, who recently vowed to reform the National Security Agency’s practices in light of the Edward Snowden leaks.

The CIA debacle again calls his view on the role of government intelligence agencies into question. Since Snowden’s leaks indicated the power that intelligence organizations possess, U.S. citizens should expect the possibility of their actions being monitored at any time.

Although Obama openly discussed the failure of previous NSA practices

with a focus on the mass collection of metadata, anything but immediate change is insufficient in addressing concerns that intelligence policies violate constitutional freedoms. Obama must directly address spying agencies’ objectionable practices with legislation that strictly limits their abilities.

When The Guardian leaked information regarding NSA surveillance practices, Obama claimed that he lacked knowledge of the scope of the agency’s actions. While the president cannot know every detail of every federal agency, understanding the NSA policies seems vital to the country’s protection. By working more closely with intelligence agencies, Obama can have a larger impact on their policies while also improving his public image.

Intelligence capabilities, enabled by the prevalence of technology, allow governments to protect their citizens.

However, these capabilities cannot be unrestrained. Obama and the national intelligence agencies should not upset the balance between collective security and personal freedom.

Dan Moritz-Rabson is a contributing columnist. Email him at opinion@nyunews.com.

STAFF EDITORIAL

Social media critical to policy implementation

President Barack Obama made an appearance yesterday on “Between Two Ferns,” a satirical web series hosted by actor Zach Galifianakis on the website Funny or Die. On the show, Obama promoted the controversial Affordable Care Act. After the disastrous rollout of healthcare.gov and millions of cancelled insurance plans, Democrats have scrambled to distance themselves from Obamacare to remain competitive in the 2014 midterm elections. But according to the White House, Obama’s appearance on “Between Two Ferns” generated record referrals to the ACA website.

This conversation comes at an apt time given the March 31 deadline to sign up for health insurance. Those left without insurance for over three months will have to pay a fine — either 1 percent of their yearly income or $95 per adult depending on household income. Anyone looking for coverage under the ACA will have to wait until the next open enrollment session in November once the deadline passes. The president’s increasing attempts to reach out to a younger audience are admirable, especially as this window closes on affordable insurance.

The president’s appearance speaks to the hipness that has made him so likable. While many disagree with his politics, it is hard to take issue with his ability to utilize popular culture. He is up to date on popular television shows like “Mad Men” and “Homeland.” He is an annual ESPN contributor.

He makes appearances on late night shows like “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” and “Saturday Night Live.” Obama has inserted himself into popular culture more than any other president in U.S. history.

Television appearances enable Obama to connect with citizens on a more personal level. Advocating for the new health care system on Galifianakis’ show presents Obamacare to a demographic not necessarily reached by conventional measures. While persistent encouragement to sign up for Obamacare may initially be useful to educate citizens about the new health care program available, using a variety of methods to stimulate registration will affect the whole society, not just one group.

Although participating in popular shows is not the most common political move or conventional method of advocacy, the appeal to the general public through social media is a wise action that may prove successful for current and future politicians. A 2013 study by the Pew Research Center concluded that around half of all Americans now cite the Internet as their main source of news — a number which is sure to rise exponentially in the coming years. In light of these figures it is not only necessary, but advantageous, for Obama to use the Internet as an outlet for policy messages.

Email the WSN Editorial Board at editboard@nyunews.com.

EDITORIAL BOARD: Peter Keffer (Chair), Christina Coleburn (Co-chair), Omar Etman (Co-chair), Nina Golshan (Co-chair)

Send mail to: 838 Broadway, Fifth Floor New York, N.Y. 10003 or email: opinion@nyunews.com WSN welcomes letters to the editor, opinion pieces and articles relevant to the NYU community, or in response to articles. Letters should be less than 450 words. All submissions must be typed or emailed and must include the author’s name, address and phone number. Members of the NYU community must include a year and school or job title.

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