Neely Swanson

1 week ago | beverlyhillscourier.com | Neely Swanson

In this multi-part series, the Courier surveys some of the most notable “don’t miss” and “don’t bother” TV offerings this spring. “The Residence” is an enjoyable romp through the White House led by Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba), straight-faced, ironically humorous, committed bird watcher and “best detective in the world.” The chief usher, A.B. Wynter, has been found in the billiard room, bloodied and most assuredly dead.

2 weeks ago | beverlyhillscourier.com | Neely Swanson

Continuing our theater journey, I’m like Alice down the rabbit hole. So much to see, so little time. “Othello,” starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal, has been much in the news, primarily because of ticket pricing. But that takes the focus away from what is a wonderful production with great acting. The cast of “Othello,” led by the two stars, has found a tempo and flow that makes the glorious words come alive.

3 weeks ago | beverlyhillscourier.com | Neely Swanson

Broadway isn’t just humming along; it’s singing at the top of its lungs. Having just returned from a theater blitz, it was all worthwhile. Advance planning certainly helped. Yes, “Othello” was expensive, but we bought those tickets well before it opened, something we were also able to do with some of the others. Word to the wise: if you wait until the reviews are in, you will be paying premium prices for the best shows. There definitely was some sticker shock but upon reflection, there was no regret.

3 weeks ago | beverlyhillscourier.com | Neely Swanson

Land of Color, Culture and HistoryA visit to Oaxaca, Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, anytime from October to May is ideal. The temperature is always pleasant and the rains are yet to come. But if I had a preference, it would be in early November. For the adventurous, the Day of the Dead (Nov. 1-2), combining pagan and Catholic rituals, is exciting, vibrant and full of activity. For me, the perfect time is always the day after the day after the Day of the Dead.

4 weeks ago | beverlyhillscourier.com | Neely Swanson

Dizzily, the cameras circle the dance floor as lights strobe and dancers swirl in colorfully chaotic but choreographed movements. We are thrust into the middle of an American version of a Bollywood-style Indian wedding with everything but the elephant. Arundhathi Gavaskar has just married the man chosen by her parents, an orthopedic surgeon no less.