Museum of the Moving Image
Interactive experiences are the goal of the Museum of the Moving Image’s exhibitions. “Behind the Screen” looks at the production, promotion and exhibition of films and television programs. Film artifacts and production methods bring film history to life. The concept of the moving image leaps from the silver screen — to cutting-edge motion technology — in the museum’s inaugural exhibition, “Real Virtuality.” Visitors jump into 3D worlds in specially-commissioned immersive works that make you part of the art. All around the museum, fresh spaces like the new screening room and theater host a stimulating mix of films. Ongoing special events showcase the museum’s new look and its programming philosophy.

Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera
Next we go behind the camera over in Brooklyn, to take a closer look at an artist’s process. Norman Rockwell’s naturalistic paintings are woven into the fabric of mid-century Americana, full of hope and even social commentary. At the Brooklyn Museum, the exhibition “Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera,” offers a different look at his iconic imagery. Beginning in the 1930s, photography was an integral part of Rockwell’s process. He would often work as a director in a studio setting, carefully selecting and staging photos of his models. Each new subject could yield a complete portrait. Other times he would combine individual elements to create a new composition. For the first time, these photos are on view alongside his paintings, drawings, and related tear sheets to offer a fascinating look at the artist’s process.

New York Festival of Song
The idea of the American dream was one of the themes explored by Rockwell; likewise in music, the New York Festival of Song presents the themed concert “Night & Day/USA: Americans Working and Dreaming.” A diverse program of songs by composers like Kurt Weill, Tom Waits, and many more explore the struggle and triumph of the American dream. Under the artistic direction of pianists Steven Blier and Michael Barrett, performances will star soprano Sari Gruber, mezzo-soprano Liza Forrester, tenor Christopher Tiesi, and baritone James Martin. Catch the New York Festival of Song at Merkin Concert Hall February 15th and 17th.

1001 Inventions of the Muslim World
The New York Hall of Science goes back in time and takes a trip around the world with science and innovation. After blockbuster runs in London and Istanbul, the exhibition “1001 Inventions” uncovers the golden age of science and technology developed throughout Muslim civilization. Discoveries and advancements span the globe from southern Spain, reaching to China, from the 7th to the 17th Centuries. More than 60 interactive exhibits reveal how scientists developed an understanding of the world. Displays about medicine, astronomy, transportation, mathematics, and more invite and inspire visitors to learn and explore history.

Flamenco Hoy
Hot on the heels of the debut of his film “Flamenco Flamenco” at the “Dance on Camera” Film Festival, acclaimed Spanish director Carlos Saura brings his cinematic vision to the stage at City Center. The vibrant and passionate art form of flamenco comes to life with a new vision by Saura in “Flamenco Hoy.” With choreography by Raphael Estevez and Nani Panos, and musical direction by Chano Dominguez, a cast of 20 of Spain’s most exciting young talent takes the stage with grace and passion. Sauro’s innovative staging infuses the art form with a cinematic eye, bringing a new perspective of the dance to spectators. Catch “Flamenco Hoy” February 16th through the 20th.

Gruesome Playground Injuries
Off-Broadway, star power is heating up the stage in two dramatic productions. Pulitzer Prize finalist Rajiv Joseph returns to Second Stage Theatre, with “Gruesome Playground Injuries” directed by Scott Ellis. This dark romance stars Tony-nominated Pablo Schreiber as Doug, and “Dexter’s” Jennifer Carpenter as Kayleen. Over the course of 30 years, the lives of the two childhood friends curiously intersect. Together they’re led to examine the damages that draw them together. Catch “Gruesome Playground Injuries” through the 20th.

Three Sisters
Just off Union Square, the Classic Stage Company is drawing audiences Downtown for it’s staging of “Three Sisters” by Anton Chekhov. Directed by Austin Pendleton, a star-studded ensemble makes up the revival of the light drama about a privileged Russian family. Leading the play is the sibling trio played by Maggie Gyllenhaal, Jessica Hecht and Juliet Rylance. Adding to the allure, the characters of Masha and Vershinin are brought to life by real-life couple, Gyllenhaal and husband Peter Sarsgaard.