With more than 8 million residents spread across five boroughs, New York City is the ultimate cultural melting pot. There’s so much to love in this mega-city. From the bright lights of Broadway to the eclectic mix of architectural styles to the never-ending buzz of Times Square, New York is unforgettable.
We chatted with Broadway actor Stephen Cerf who is currently playing the role of Gyp DeCarlo in Jersey Boys at New World Stages. Having explored most of the world performing in the national and international tours of Motown, Spamalot and Jersey Boys, Stephen and his dog, Indy, have settled into a Brooklyn townhouse that they now call “home.” Stephen realized his vocation during a high school production of The Music Man in Denver, CO . That’s when he set his sights on NYC and Broadway. He is the author of The Not So Starving Artist as well as a general contractor with his own company, Tailormade. Here are Stephen’s thoughts about his hometown.
What inspires you in New York City?
I love the architecture. There is such a beautiful thing about old mixing with new, especially when it comes to buildings and design.
What is your favorite activity?
I love riding my bike around the city or taking my dog for a walk in one of NYC’s many beautiful parks.
What is your favorite attraction?
Broadway theater, of course. New York is the center of the theater universe.
What is your favorite monument?
The Brooklyn Bridge. Wait, is that a monument?
New York is renowned as a shopping Mecca. Where do you like to shop?
I love Little Italy.
What is your favorite museum?
MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) is really great.
What is your favorite neighborhood?
Probably the West Village or Soho. Ft. Greene in Brooklyn is really cool, too.
What is your “go to” restaurant and what’s your favorite dish there?
The Smith. I always get the pork chop with a side of Brussel Sprouts.
Do you have a favorite restaurant for a special occasion?
The Marshall in Hell’s Kitchen is a great place for a celebration.
Where do you like to go on a Saturday night?
Home to my pup after two shows of Jersey Boys.
Are there any secret things you love to do in New York City?
If I told you…
What can you find in your city that you can’t find anywhere else?
New York style pizza. Can’t get it anywhere else!
What would constitute a “perfect” day for you in New York?
A long bike ride around Central Park, then taking my pup to the dog park, and then a nice dinner at home in my backyard.
What is your best memory of something that has happened to you in your city?
The night I made my Broadway debut in Jersey Boys. I don’t think I’ll ever top that!
