A New York Rant: Don’t Rain On My Parade

A NEW YORK RANT

DON’T RAIN ON MY PARADE!

By Sean-Patrick Hillman

arch 17th is Sean-Patrick’s Day. I mean St. Patrick’s Day. For my entire life, having grown up in New York with a first name like Sean-Patrick, this day has always been my favorite. Whether it was marching down Fifth Avenue with a particular group, hanging out with friends along the parade route, or (more likely) doing an Irish pub crawl, the day we celebrate Irish heritage is unlike any other in New York. It will always have a special place in my heart.

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is as synonymous with New York City as jelly is to peanut butter. It also happens to be the oldest and longest-running parade in the world! So, when 2020 was canceled due to COVID-19, the organizers still managed to get enough marchers to go down Fifth Avenue so that it could be recorded as “held.” Many of my fellow Irish Americans were so happy that at least that was able to happen. So, the question is, will the parade be allowed this year? All indications seem to say yes at this point. Still, we all know how wonderful the city and state have been over the last twenty years in telling the public things in a timely fashion and, of course, their responsibility in taking care of public health. You know, like our dear Governor’s handling of the nursing homes during the pandemic and resulting cover-up. Traditions are important, especially in immigrant communities. Now, yes, it has been a few generations since the Irish side of my family emigrated to the U.S., but we still hold those very traditions in our hearts. And, of course, I have added to those traditions with my very own. I hope the parade goes forward this year, as you will most certainly find me along the parade route and then inside an Irish pub on the Upper East Side (likely Dorrian’s, Iggy’s, or Bailey’s Corner). After all, tradition is tradition! Erin Go Bragh! It has been my sincerest honor writing this column for the last year, but it is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye. This is going to be my last issue. Thank you for the support, the patience, and the love with A New York Rant and Great Bites! Stay in touch by emailing me at Sean-Patrick@hillstory.com. •

NEW YORK, NY TIME OUT WITH…

GERARD SENEHI, MASTER OF MENTALISM

By Harry Brads

e is recognized as a superstar in Mentalist Entertainment. Meet Gerard Senehi, who provides the most mind-bending and inspiring mentalist show in the world. His talents are so well known, he’s appeared on The Today Show, Ellen, CNN, and on the pages of New York Magazine. During this past year, he created a virtual experience of his show for special and corporate events and continues to break the boundaries of what is possible.

Gerard has a unique interest and ability to use his art as a mentalist to create mystery, demonstrating impossible feats that even the most ardent skeptics can’t explain. At the same time, he makes an environment where people can suspend their ideas of what’s possible, thus giving an experience that is thoroughly captivating and expands possibilities beyond imagined boundaries. World leaders, celebrities, and top corporations have been so moved by the unique way he combines mind-bending mentalism with an inspirational outlook on life. Witness his talents, and you’ll be transported from the everyday environment to a completely different dimension. Senehi’s audiences know they have seen a one-of-a-kind event. He creates an environment where people can suspend their ideas of what’s possible, thus giving an experience that is thoroughly captivating and expands possibilities beyond imagined boundaries. His presentations are thoroughly entertaining, mysterious, and a perfect backdrop to let the imagination run with potentials not yet imagined. The mentalist is also regarded as one of the best and has received the highest recognition and honor, the Dunninger Award from the Psychic Entertainers Association.

New York Lifestyles met up with Senehi to discuss his unique career and how one becomes a mentalist.

Tell us how it all started.

Well, I was born in France but grew up in Switzerland, Iran, and the U.S. After schooling, I became a teacher, then went on to social work and worked in nonprofits for most of my life.

How did you discover your ability?

It is an art form that I developed over the years. An initial catalyst was when I was playing cards late at night with high school friends, and I started jokingly calling out the cards that my friend was dealing and guessed three in a row right. I was intrigued by what happened, and it opened a deep curiosity about all the invisible aspects of life.

How would you describe a mentalist?

A mentalist is someone who brings forth an experience of mystery through skills or abilities of the mind, in contrast to a magician who creates an experience of mystery through sleight of hand or illusion.

Gerard Senehi

You have performed at many events. Tell us who about high-profile clients who have witnessed your talents.

I’ve performed for world leaders, including President Clinton and his cabinet, Prince Philip, Prince Edward, Prince Albert, dozens of celebrities, the giant corporations in the world. I’m often the keynote presenter for annual meetings and conferences of many corporations.

Do you have a particular activity that you are known for?

I’m known for being one of the world’s best improvisational mentalists, as I create a real and inspiring experience rather than perform a staged show.

Is there anything else about being a mentalist that you would like to share?

I’m passionate about giving people an experience of the intangible side of life where mystery opens the doors to possibilities.