I have been a proud owner of the Apple iPhone 3G now for about 6 months and I have to admit, I wonder what the hell I ever did BEFORE I owned my iPhone. It even sold me on the iPad, which I have also really learned to depend on as a new addition to my work and personal computing arsenal. Now, although I love my iPhone, you won’t see me waiting in line to purchase the new iPhone 4 (regardless of the flawed internal antenna issues being reported). In fact, I was in the Tampa Apple Store last week when the new phone streeted and I was shocked to see the onslaught of computer geeks and 40 year-old virgins who were actually waiting in-line for the phone. Um–DON’T THESE PEOPLE HAVE JOBS??? While I was enjoying the last day of my vacation, I was left scratching my head as to why these people would be waiting in line for hours (instead of working) to buy a very expensive gadget–I certainly hope they weren’t using their government-issued Unemployment Compensation checks to buy an iPhone 4. Now, as much love as I have for the iPhone, that adoration doesn’t extend to AT&T, who has owned a monopoly on the iPhone since it debuted several years ago. The network is plagued by dropped calls and other problems and has received a hefty amount of criticism for it. While rumors have been circulating that Verizon will soon begin carrying the iPhone, a lawsuit was filed in Maryland a few days ago challenging Apple and AT&T’s contract of exclusivity on the iPhone. It could be erroneous–Lots of cell carries have exclusive deals with certain phone manufacturers. But perhaps this suit will begin to crack the solid handshake between Apple and AT&T. Ironically, despite AT&T’s exclusivity contract with Apple for the iPhone, AT&T’s stock has not improved a penny since they began exclusively carrying the device.
Click the Link below to see a copy of the suit:
Our second day in NYC ended with Promises, Promises, one of the biggest shows on Broadway right now. The show is playing at the Broadway Theater and is a musical comedy. Sean Hayes (best known as Jack McFarland from Will & Grace) stars as the main character Chuck, who’s life of mediocrity and singledom comes to an abrupt end when his co-workers discover he has an apartment that easily provides shelter for them to have affairs. Hayes really showcases his talent in Promises, Promises and Kristen Chenoweth’s country-style voice provides a sweetness to her role that was needed for an appreciation of her character, who might otherwise be thought of as unlikeable. But the real scene-stealer is Katie Finneran as Marge MacDougall, a “widow” who provides much of the second act with gut-busting laughter! Promises, Promises is definitely a MUST SEE!
The trip ended with a visit to the St. James Theater to see the production of the rock-musical opera American Idiot, based off of my favorite band’s (Green Day) 2004 album of the same name. The show also features a handful of songs from the group’s most recent 2009 album 21st Century Breakdown. The show centers around a group of friends who are at points of change in their lives and is set in the beginning of the Iraq War. One moves to NYC to attempt to find himself but eventually becomes addicted to heroin; another literally goes nowhere and ends-up unexpectedly becoming a father; and finally, one is wounded after joining the Army and going to war. The show is incredibly unique and anyone who is a fan of Green Day will love every minute of it. My only complaint is that the show, which runs a solid 95 minutes, does not have an intermission. At times, the story feels a little rushed and consequently, the characters are never developed to the level usually seen in traditional musicals. Then again, American Idiot is no traditional musical! It is a rock and roll music video live on stage and on the Great White Way is something that cannot be skipped, especially if you’re a fan of Green Day.
Playbill.com is reporting that Sean Hayes, a 2010 Tony nominee for his performance in Promises, Promises, will host the 64th Annual Antoinette Perry “Tony” Awards on June 13 live from Radio City Music Hall. In a statement the Emmy-winning “Will & Grace” star said, “I am absolutely thrilled to be hosting the Tony Awards. As the new guy on Broadway, it’s an honor to be included in the established alumni.” The Tony Awards will air live on CBS from 8-11 PM ET. The Tonys are presented by The Broadway League and The American Theatre Wing. In exciting news, on my upcoming trip to NYC in a few weeks, we’re going to get to see Hayes and Broadway and “Glee” sensation Kristen Chenowith in the current (Best Musical-nominee) Promises, Promises!!!