Simon and Garfunkel Tribute at Summerstage

It was a true I LOVE NY night in Central Park last night for the Summerstage Gala. Funds raised to support the season of free concerts this summer across the city.

Michael Dorf from City Winery produced the event. There were candle lit tables out in front and general admissision seating in the bleachers. It was lovely. City Winery created 2 wines for the occassion--S&G Chardonnay and Book Ends Red (get it?).

I was the host for the entire show (the VOG, or voice of god, as we say in the biz) which was a pretty fun assignment. Introducing each artist and providing some perspective on the songs and what a body of work!

16 pairs of artists performed the songs of Simon and Garfunkel as duets. Ollabelle served as the house band and they were great.

Art Garfunkel arrived with Mayor Bloomberg and they, (along with Padma Lakshmi) all spoke at the beginning of the night and enjoyed the show. Paul Simon arrived just after the show began and sat (unnoticed) in the audience for the performance. It was so great that they were there. What a show of support for the arts in our city and for the great work Summerstage does.

After the performance Paul Simon came backstage and hung out with all the artists. He held Brendan Benson’s new baby, took pictures, and signed autographs.  I worked my way in there and got to talk to him about his forthcoming album. He told me it’s nearly complete, he did some sampling on it, and that i would love it. He wouldn’t share the title tho, saying, “it’s too good to get out at this point!”

See previous post for set list and links to many great photos