Arcades
Why anyone would pay good money to get into Universal Studios Florida and then waste their time in a video arcade is beyond me. On the other hand, the two Arcades in New York never seem to lack for customers, so what do I know?
The Blues Brothers
The Dan Ackroyd-John Belushi routine that made a better Saturday Night Live sketch than it ever did a movie is immortalized in this peppy street show, which currently holds forth from a makeshift stage on Delancey Street. The warm-up comes courtesy of a belting blues singer whose gospel-tinged renditions of blues standards are a show in and of themselves. Then, backed by a live sax player and a recorded sound track, Jake and Elwood goof and strut their way through a selection of rock and blues standards, winding up with a rousing, extremely high-decibel version of “Soul Man.”
The genial performers, who are look-alikes only to the extent that one is tall and lanky and the other short and stout, do the material justice, and Jake’s hyperkinetic dance steps are a highlight of the show. If you like your rock straight and unadulterated, you should enjoy it. Performances are listed in the Studio Guide brochure, but Jake and Elwood take no chances; they cruise the studio backlot in their funky revamped cop car avidly promoting the show.
Street Breakz
Break dancing has become a staple of New York street entertainment and the troupe of dancers here is a cut or two above what you’re likely to see in Times Square. The show retains much of the improvised flavor of its inspiration and the smooth surface taped to the street near the Aftermath souvenir shop is only slightly more substantial than the cardboard sometimes used in the ‘hood. This isn’t about cute choreography but competitive stunt dancing, with the performers seeming to try to top each other’s last efforts. If hip hop is your beat and acrobatic dancing is to your taste, then this show won’t disappoint.
Note: This show is seasonal, so it may not be on during your visit.
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