On Christmas Day, I went to see Les Miserables which I thought was phenomenal. Last night, I had the pleasure of seeing The Red and The Black as well as to peek behind the scenes and to talk with a number of the actors including the leads, Krista Adams Santilli (who plays Louise we have included this stylish leading lady previously on Kitten Lounge here and here) and Lucas Wells (who plays Julien who was also in Spring Awakening). This play is Deloss Brown's adaptation from Stendahl's famed, Le Rouge et Le Noir and represents the first third of the book (during my next travel schedule, I will have this book on hand as I want to know what happens next as this play actually gives a bit of a rundown within the last 2 minutes of the show and it's shocking). As it is post Napoleon and the Revolution, this play is about conflicts and tension when it comes to women, class, age, ambition, politics, religion, nobility, advancement and relationships. Love is a massive theme as it's not just about having it but what happens when it takes place when it shouldn't, when it isn't given back and when it is seen as the ultimate tool to make moves!

The Red and The Black was produced for Capolavori by Steve Acunto, Chairman of his family's company - the Italian Academy Foundation. He was drawn to this play due to its complex themes and how there was a depth of material that went beyond surface emotion. There are a number of lines within the play that stick in your mind and although they are repeated throughout, it takes on new meanings of understanding as the production reveals the intricacies of the characters.

After this show, having the opportunity to mingle with the cast and to share our reactions was an amazing experience. Lucas, who played a calculating/coy Julien, was super sweet in person. Being someone who has taken on a number of roles and also plays pop rock, I loved learning that he knows the importance of taking care of his hair and he is a fan of Bumble and Bumble - he knows how to maintain his curly locks. Krista was stunning in her post play outfit and really reflected on her role and the amount of conflict she has to share within seconds of one another. Watching her go through a range of emotions continues to build this tension even when it seems to be resolved at that particular moment.

The Red and The Black will continue to run through Feb 3rd and readers of Kitten Lounge, there is nothing more Classic NY then heading out to the theater! Tweet @KittenLounge (and make sure to follow) to tell us what Classic NY Nights means to you! We will select a winner at 3pm on Friday, Jan 25th. It's a great production that you and your guest will find yourself thinking about well after it has finished.