Wine With Wanda

What's New: Paris, New York, Napa Valley & Vermont

New York: Once is the Broadway musical that I can't wait to see. Based on the wonderful Academy Award winning movie of the same name, Once is the captivating love story of an Irish musician and a Czech immigrant in Dublin that form a complicated romantic bond through their shared love of music. And, the music in the movie was simply beautiful - I played the Oscar winning song Falling Slowly over and over again. The actors in the Broadway show also play instruments on stage and critics have been giving the show rave reviews.

Paris: If you don't speak French, finding your way around Paris just got a little easier with the launch of the Time Out Paris listings in English. Features include listings of the sexiest hotels, unmissable museums, and where to eat, drink, and party!

Woodstock, Vermont: The Woodstock Inn & Resort presents their inaugural Women's Wellness Weekend on April 27-29. From the secrets of the Mediterranean diet, shared by Dr. Oz frequent guest Dr. Will Clower to the advantages of sleep, guests will learn how to take an holistic approach to health care goals. The package includes two nights deluxe accommodations, a welcome reception with wine tastings and hors d’oeuvres, all meals on Saturday and brunch on Sunday, exercise classes and all scheduled seminars. Participants will also have unlimited use of the resort’s Racquet & Fitness Club, including complimentary fitness classes, and a $75.00 credit to The Spa per person. Package rates start at $645 per person based on double occupancy for two nights.

Napa Valley: PRESS restaurant in St. Helena, California has unveiled the largest restaurant collection of Napa Valley wines anywhere - including vintages dating back to the 60's and 70's. Designed by renowned architect Howard Backen, the PRESS cellar can house up to 10,000 delicious bottles.

Fierce, Funky & Fun: FELA on Broadway

Am I the last person in New York to see FELA on Broadway? Well, last night I finally made it to this VERY original TONY nominated production (11 nominations, including Best Musical). I can't think of any other Broadway show that I've attended where the performers interact with the audience in so many different ways. Not only do the dancers shimmy through the aisles but the audience is asked to get up and shake it and even sing along. Ya ya!

Set in Lagos, Nigeria in the 1970's, the play is based on the life of Afrobeat music pioneer Fela Kuti. More than a musician, Fela was an outspoken critic of government corruption and music was his weapon. He was also a charismatic ladies man and Fela's bevy of dancing beauties is portrayed on stage by a gorgeous ensemble of incredible performers. I won't give away too many details but if you want to experience a new type of theatrical experience, consider Fela for a high energy and thought provoking option.

To save some money, we purchased tickets on www.BroadwayBox.com and paid about $75 for an orchestra seat. Patti LaBelle joins the cast soon so I suggest getting tickets early - you know tons of fans will turn out to hear Miss Diva!

Win 2 Tickets to the Hit Broadway Musical MEMPHIS!

Congratulations to winner Kathryn W.!

Don't miss your chance to see the musical that has been called "the biggest hit on Broadway this year or any other year.” (WOR Radio.) Enter for your chance to win 2 tickets to see a January 2010 performance of the hit Broadway musical MEMPHIS! (The winner will be mailed a voucher and must follow the instructions in order to redeem the prize.) Contest ends on Friday, Dec. 11 at 5:00 pm (EST).

From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot new Broadway musical with a brand-new story to tell. Get ready to rock, because MEMPHIS is blowing the roof off of Broadway! The plot - She's a black singer whose career is on the rise, but who can't break out of segregated clubs. He's a white radio DJ whose love of music transcends race lines and airwaves. When the two collaborate, her soulful music reaches radio audiences everywhere, and the Golden Era of early rock 'n' roll takes flight. But as things start to heat up, whether the world is really ready for their music - or their love - is put to the test. A thrilling theatrical event that combines Broadway splendor with the roots of rock.