Throughout 2008 New York magazine has celebrated its 40th year in publication, culminating this week in a commemorative issue. Among the retrospective features in the magazine and on its Web site is a photo gallery of iconic New York parties from the last four decades.
Images of Andy Warhol, Patti Smith, John F. Kennedy Jr., Diane Von Furstenberg, and Kanye West help illustrate the evolution of the city’s late-night scene with glimpses of long-shuttered venues like the original Studio 54, the Palladium, and the Empire rink. One photo of Elton John and Ann-Margret recalls the premiere party of Tommy, held in a subway station.
Parties seem to always be high in New York’s priorities. Another major initiative of the magazine this year, and of New York Media's new event division, is an ambitious series of concerts, auctions, and public events strung together under the label of “Forty Nights.”
We spoke with New York Media executive director of creative and marketing services Sona Hacherian this summer about the bigger efforts this year, which included Indie Rock Trivia at the Highline Ballroom, the Bad Art Auction, and the New York Culinary Experience. Although the events will continue throughout December, the official anniversary celebration takes place next week.
Grizzly Bear and the National headline the October 10 anniversary party concert at Hammerstein Ballroom, and the comedic trio of Michael Ian Black, Michael Showalter, and David Wain is booked to host. Tickets are still available to the public, but V.I.P. access for those willing to shell out $100 for a box seat and open bar is already sold out.
