Shake Your Groove Thing With Priscilla at New York's Fabled Essex House

Robert Doyle READ TIME: 4 MIN.

NEW YORK, NY - Celebrate Valentine's Day with an overnight stay at Jumeirah Essex House, the luxurious Art Deco hotel with an unrivaled Central Park address, recently dubbed the "most romantic hotel" in New York by the Philadelphia Gay News.

Just be sure to pack your sequins: When you book the "Priscilla Package," the Essex House will include a pair of tickets to the over-the-top production Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical, presented by Bette Midler.

Pull on your highest platform shoes, tease that wig and enjoy the show that Entertainment Weekly emphatically declared "A colorfully hilarious musical extravaganza!," along with glamorous touches that only the Essex House can provide including:

  • One luxurious night in a spacious Standard King Room at the Jumeirah Essex House, recently upgraded to the tune of $90 million;
  • A pair of premium tickets to Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical, playing at The Palace Theater, a pleasant 10-minute stroll from the hotel; and
  • A sparkly Priscilla-themed confection specially delivered to your room.
    The price for this one-night package, offered for the entire month of February subject to availability, is $605 (inclusive of tax) per couple.*

    To complete the evening, guests who book the package can enjoy an optional three-course pre-theater dinner for two at South Gate, the hotel's award-winning restaurant, for just $35 per person (exclusive of beverages, tax and gratuity). Download the PDF of the menu here: http://bit.ly/yfVaYX

    "Our location on Central Park a few blocks north of Time Square is perfect for theatergoers," said Gary Schweikert, Regional Vice President, Americas & General Manager. "The luxury of Essex House, the romance of South Gate, and the spectacle of Priscilla will combine for an unforgettable Valentine's Day celebration."

    Put some sizzle into your Valentines' Day by calling 888-645-5697 to book your uproariously fun "Priscilla" experience and treat your special someone to a show the New York Post dubbed the "Queen of Broadway." To reserve the pre-theater three-course dinner, call 212-484-5120.

    The iconic Jumeirah Essex House, with a coveted Central Park address, is ideally located in the heart of Manhattan minutes away from fabulous shopping along 5th Avenue, world-renowned Broadway Theater and the LGBT-popular bars and restaurants in Hell's Kitchen.

    In 2011, the hotel was named a "Top Pick" by OUT on its travel website, OutTraveler.com as well as in OUT's mobile app. The Essex House was also nominated for "Favorite Luxury Hotel" by the editors of Edge Publications. Finally, Philadelphia Gay News named Jumeirah Essex House the "Most Romantic Hotel" in New York. For general hotel information visit www.JumeirahEssexHouse.com

    Based on the Oscar-winning 1994 hit movie The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, the musical follows the adventures of a trio of drag queens who journey across the Australian Outback on a disco-dancing adventure. The show is playing at The Palace Theater, located at 1564 Broadway, a half-mile from the Essex House. Show information: www.PriscillaOnBroadway.com

    The 509-room Jumeirah Essex House celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2007 by completing a major $90 million refurbishment project to pay homage to the glamour and elegance of its original design. This historic New York City hotel, with a coveted Central Park address, is ideally located in the heart of Manhattan. Features of the hotel include breathtaking views, outstanding dining and unrivalled conference and banqueting facilities.

    South Gate, the hotel's spectacular Tony Chi-designed restaurant, featuring renowned chef Kerry Heffernan, has received rave reviews from customers and critics alike. Jumeirah Essex House has been recognized as "North America's Leading Business Hotel" and "United States" Leading Business Hotel" by the World Travel Awards for 2009, 2010, and 2011. The hotel was also ranked "Best Hotel in the Eastern United States" in Global Traveler Magazine's 2010 and 2011 GT Tested Awards. Additionally, South Gate has received top reviews from MICHELIN Guide and Zagat Survey in 2010 and 2011.

    With its prestigious address on the fashionable Central Park South in New York City, Jumeirah Essex House is a place to "see and be seen" while enjoying the celebrated cuisine at the hotel's fine dining restaurant, South Gate. Designed by top New York City designer, Tony Chi, South Gate opened to rave reviews in 2008 and stands as one of the city's "must try" dining destinations. Its seasonally-inspired modern American menu created by renowned Executive Chef Kerry Heffernan features fresh and contemporary fare.

    Set amongst a warmly sleek interior, South Gate provides the perfect location to enjoy Central Park views while perusing the impressive 650 bottle wine selection. Both MICHELIN Guide and Zagat Survey recently gave top marks for its standout cuisine, gracious service and gratifying dining experience.

    LINK: Jumeirah Essex House

    *Package price includes one night in a Standard King Room, taxes, in-room amenity, and two tickets to Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical. Package is subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. Please contact Reservations Department for full details. No refunds or exchanges.


    by Robert Doyle

    Long-term New Yorkers, Mark and Robert have also lived in San Francisco, Boston, Provincetown, D.C., Miami Beach and the south of France. The recipient of fellowships at MacDowell, Yaddo, and Blue Mountain Center, Mark is a PhD in American history and literature, as well as the author of the novels Wolfchild and My Hawaiian Penthouse. Robert is the producer of the documentary We Are All Children of God. Their work has appeared in numerous publications, as well as at : www.mrny.com.

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