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Spooky events leading up to and on Halloween

Here are some spooky events happening in the lead-up to and on Halloween:

LMNO invites guests to its Costumes & Cocktails Halloween Disco party on Thursday, October 31st, from 6:00 PM to 1:30 AM. Attendees can enjoy spooky-themed drinks, bites, and dance to the beats of DJ Dre, who will be spinning from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM. The event is free to attend, with a pay-as-you-go option for food and drinks, offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite 70s icons for the Halloween costume contest,with prizes awarded to the top three: a $100 gift card, $50 gift card, and 4 free drink tickets. To enter, participants simply need to post a photo of their costume at LMNO on Instagram and tag @lmnophilly by the end of the night. Winners will be announced via Instagram DM on Friday, November 1st.

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City

Come dressed up to a Halloween Party at the Lobby Bar on Saturday, October 26, from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM! Listen to music from the 80’s Revolution Band, who will take the stage at 9:30 PM, with microphone announcements by ZXL radio personality Sean Patrick happening between 9:00 PM and midnight. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their best costumes, with exciting prizes up for grabs. The prize structure includes a $2,000 Hard Rock Gift Card for Best Overall Costume, and $1,000 Hard Rock Gift Cards for Best Couples Costume, Scariest Costume, Most Creative Costume, and Funniest Costume. Winners will be announced at midnight.

Guests can enjoy spooky sips from the haunted drink menu, featuring cocktails like Witches Brew, Vampire Spritz, Peanut Butter Cup Martini, and Pumpkin Spice Martini.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art Halloween will come alive at the Museum with spooky treats. Through November 1, visitors can enjoy Halloween-themed specials in the Café at Ellis Coffee Bar, including spooky cookies and cupcakes, along with festive coffee drinks like Caramel Hot Chocolate, Black Sugar Latte, Spiced Caramel Cider, and Blueberry Chai. On October 25, the Friday Night Lounge will feature themed cocktails such as Blood Orange Vampire Punch (tequila), Shirley Temple of Doom, Festbier Beer, and Red October Beer.

The Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia will be featuring a special Halloween menu from October 21st through October 31st. The BOOberry burger is a fresh steak burger with applewood bacon, creamy brie cheese, crispy shoestring onions, dijonnaise, and arugula, finished with a blueberry chipotle sauce and served with seasoned fries.Pair this delicious burger with the BOOberry Zombie cocktail, which features a blend of Bacardi Superior run, triple sec, pineapple, and fresh lime with a ghoulish treat of pomegranate.

Trick or Drink: Philadelphia Halloween Bar Crawl at Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia

Join Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia for a 3-day Halloween Bar Crawl in partnership with BarCrawlerz! Get into the spooky spirit in the legendary Philadelphia Room, where a DJ will be spinning tunes throughout the event, surrounded by festive Halloween decor. Sip on drinks from Hard Rock’s Happy Hour menu, and don’t forget to purchase tickets here. See below for event details:

  • Friday, October 25th: 6 PM – 2 AM (Registration: 6 PM – 11 PM)
  • Saturday, October 26th: 4 PM – 2 AM (Registration: 4 PM – 10 PM)
  • Thursday, October 31st: 6 PM – 2 AM (Registration: 6 PM – 11 PM)

Trick or Treat Around the Town Center

Celebrate Halloween with a spooktacular evening of family fun at King of Prussia Town Center! The annual Halloween festival will return on October 28th from 5pm-7pm. Families are invited to get in costume, bring their buckets, and go trick-or-treating with the Center’s tenants. The open green space between the tenants will feature a DJ, photobooths, festive lawn games, and other fall fun for kids of all ages.

Forsythia in Old City is decked out for the season. Enjoy sophisticated fine French dining along with playful, yet upscale Halloween cocktail specials and decor.

JERSEY BOYS Too Good to Be True at Walnut Street Theatre Until November 3

Walnut Street Theatre (WST) began their 216th season with the Broadway musical phenomenon JERSEY BOYS. This show takes you behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

I was thrilled to attend opening night with a friend. It was a packed house. Only two weeks left! The show closes on November 3.  

They were just four guys from Jersey, and while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story — their story has made them an international sensation all over again. This Broadway-hit takes you behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito, and Nick Massi as they explore the rise of one of the most iconic pop bands in American music history.  

With a book by MARSHALL BRICKMAN and RICK ELICE, music by The Four Seasons member BOB GAUDIO, and lyrics by BOB CREWE, the show premiered on Broadway in 2005 to critical acclaim and has won four Tony Awards.

The documentary-style show dramatizes the personal and professional struggles of the members of The Four Seasons, from early brushes with the law to the group’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The show features a rich selection of the band’s greatest hits, including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” 

RICHARD STAFFORD returns to the Walnut as Director/Choreographer, having previously directed and choreographed numerous Mainstage shows, including Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. In addition to his work with the Walnut, Stafford has also choreographed on Broadway and the New York City Opera.

Music and vocal direction is provided by CHRIS BURCHERI, whose Walnut credits include Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; Elvis – A Musical Revolution; Rocky, the Musical; and Beautiful – The Carole King Musical.

Returning to the Walnut for the first time since his role as Bobby C in Saturday Night Fever is WILL STEPHAN CONNELL as Frankie Valli, the frontman of The Four Seasons. Connell is magnificent and his voice is similar to Valli’s in power.

Appearing alongside Connell as band member Bob Gaudio is EDDIE OLMO II, fresh from his role as Barry Mann in Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. Returning to the Walnut as a founding member of the band, Tommy Devito, is KEN SANDBERG, last seen in Elvis – A Musical Revolution. Rounding out The Four Seasons quartet and appearing as Nick Massi is CHRIS STEVENS, known for his role as Gaston in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

Walnut favorite FRAN PRISCO takes on the role of mob boss Gyp Decarlo in his 41st WST production, having just appeared in last season’s Beautiful – The Carole King Musical and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

Appearing as producer Bob Crewe is RYAN KLEINMAN, who made his Walnut debut with Beautiful – The Carole King Musical

Returning to the Walnut to bring the streets of New Jersey to the Walnut’s stage is Scenic Designer JOHN FARRELL, whose designs were seen most recently in Aspects of Love on the Mainstage. Joining Farrell are Walnut veterans Lighting Designer MATT DEMASCOLO (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast) and Sound Designer ED CHAPMAN (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), along with Assistant Lighting Designer JEN DONSKY.

Returning to the Walnut fresh from Beautiful – The Carole King Musical to costume their rockstars and capture the iconic hair of the 60s are Costume Designer MARY FOLINO and Wig Designer CARISSA THORLAKSON. 

From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s just too good to be true! 

The 2024-25 Season started October 1 with Jersey Boys. The 2024-25 season includes: Jersey Boys, Elf the Broadway Musical, Driving Miss Daisy, Noël Coward’s Hay Fever, and Dreamgirls. Subscriptions are available now for as little as $26 per show – up to a 75% savings compared to regular ticket prices! Individual tickets go on-sale July 23. For information on season subscriptions or individual tickets, call the Walnut at 215-574-3550 x6 or visit WalnutStreetTheatre.org.  

Will Stephan Connell, Eddie Olmo II, Ken Sandberg, and Chris Stevens in Jersey Boys.

Photo by Mark Garvin

Valley Forge Casino Resort’s Annual Music Series Returns

Valley Forge Casino Resort’s annual Valley Beach summer music series is back and better than ever, starting on Saturday, May 25th with Shot of Southern, a Philadelphia-based country music group. The series will feature weekly, outdoor performances on Saturday nights that bring together the best of live music, summer weather, delicious drinks and light bites.

Additionally, DJs will play every Friday night at Valley Forge Casino’s brand-new lounge and entertainment space, Deck 52, as part of the “Decks on Deck” series. Attendees must be 21+ to enter Friday and Saturday nights, and a cover charge will be applicable.

Home to the music series, Valley Beach is a 20,000-square-foot poolside club with an entertainment stage, open-air bar, tiki bar, private cabanas available to rent, and a crystal blue pool located at Valley Forge Casino Resort. 

WHEN:      

WHERE:       Valley Forge Casino Resort, 1160 First Avenue, King of Prussia, PA 19406

Valley Forge Casino Resort is the only all-inclusive gaming destination in the area, operating twenty-four hours per day. It has a 36,000 square foot gaming floor with 850 slot machines and 50 table games, the FanDuel Sportsbook, over 25,000 square feet of meeting, conference, and banquet space, two five-star hotel towers with 442 rooms, and more. Additionally, there are six restaurants on the grounds, live performances, and a vibrant nightlife. Two miles from the King of Prussia Mall and conveniently on the Main Line, this one-of-a-kind hospitality experience is reachable from Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

Catch the Journey of a Lifetime at WST: Beautiful – The Carole King Musical

Walnut Street Theatre (WST) is ending our 215th season with the highly anticipated BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL. I attended opening night last week – this show entertains from start to finish.

This inspiring true story of Carole King’s remarkable journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame features 20 multitalented performers and a live orchestra. The show will close out the season on May 5. 

With a career spanning over six decades, Carole King has left an indelible mark on the music industry. From her early days as a songwriter composing chart-topping hits for artists like The Shirelles and The Drifters, to her groundbreaking solo album “Tapestry,” which is one of the bestselling albums of all time, King remains one of the most prolific musicians.

Her unique blend of heartfelt lyrics and unforgettable melodies has earned her numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards, inductions into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the prestigious Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. 

With a book by DOUGLAS MCGRATH and words and music by CAROLE KING, GERRY GOFFIN, BARRY MAN, and CYNTHIA WEIL, BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL made its Broadway debut in 2014, captivating audiences for over 2400 performances with its depiction of a schoolgirl turned superstar.

From King’s relationship with husband and songwriter Gerry Goffin to their friendly rivalry with song-writing duo Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, the show captures the untold story of Carole King’s journey. Featuring over two dozen hits, including “One Fine Day,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” and “Natural Woman,” this Broadway celebration is filled with the songs you remember and a story you’ll never forget!

RICHARD STAFFORD returns to the Walnut as Director/Choreographer, having previously directed and choreographed numerous Mainstage shows, including Rocky, the Musical. In addition to his work with the Walnut, Stafford has also choreographed on Broadway and the New York City Opera.

Music and vocal direction are provided by CHRIS BURCHERI, whose Walnut credits include Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; Elvis – A Musical Revolution; Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella; and Rocky, the Musical. Associate Choreographer JOSEPH CULLINANE in his Walnut debut and returning Stage Managers PATRICK DAVID EGAN and MICHELE BEGLEY also lend their skills to this talented production team.

Making her Walnut debut and embodying the role of Carole King is SARA SHEPERD, an Ohio native who’s no stranger to the role, having played King in the national tour of BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL. Returning to the Walnut as Genie Klein, Carole King’s disillusioned mother, is SABRINA PROFITT, last seen onstage at the Walnut in Rocky, the Musical. Celebrating his 40th production at the Walnut and portraying music publisher Don Kirshner is FRAN PRISCO, who audiences will recognize as having just played Cogsworth in this season’s Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

MATTHEW AMIRA returns as Gerry Goffin, Carole King’s former husband and songwriting partner. Amira is a Walnut favorite, known for his role as Rocky in the Philadelphia premiere of Rocky, the Musical and Brick in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof at Walnut Street Theare. Making their Walnut debuts are KATHRYN BOSWELL and EDDIE OLMO II as the songwriting duo Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann. Boswell has appeared in shows including Only Murders in the Building (Hulu) and

The Watcher (Netflix), while Philadelphia-born Olmo has appeared in Broadway’s The Book of Mormon

Returning to the Walnut as members of famous musical groups and friends of the songwriting duos are CHALI COOKE (Elvis – A Musical Revolution), DANA ORANGE in his 10th Walnut production (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), SAMANTHA ROCHE (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), Dance Captain AUDREY BIEHL SIMMONS (Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville), DEVON SINCLAIR (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), and Philadelphia-born SIERRA WILSON (Rocky, the Musical; Beehive – The 60s Musical).

Preparing the cast for this Broadway celebration are Costume Designer MARY FOLINO and Wig Designer CARISSA THORLAKSON. Folino’s designs have graced the stage for shows including Holiday Inn; Young Frankenstein; Rocky, the Musical; and Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, while Thorlakson’s work has appeared in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast; Elvis – A Musical Revolution; Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella; Rocky, the Musical and more here at the Walnut.

BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL started performances at the Walnut on March 26, 2024. For tickets and information, call 215-574-3550. Tickets are also available online 24/7 by visiting WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com.

Don’t Miss the 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show “United by Flowers”  

The 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show “United by Flowers” has dozens of exhibitors that create the must-see floral spectacle that has become a Philadelphia tradition.  

“United by Flowers” celebrates the colorful community that comes together to share in their love of gardening, flowers, and plants, and the impact they make on our lives all year round.  Now in its 195th year, the award-winning PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is a world-renowned gardening event and PHS’s main fundraiser to support its impactful greening work that advances health and well-being in the region.

The event is known for its stunning visual displays, world-class plant competitions, family activities, artisanal crafts, educational offerings, and curated shopping.

The 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show gathers some of the most cutting-edge, renowned landscape architects, garden designers, horticulturists, and florists from around the world to design dozens of breathtaking exhibits capturing the essence of this year’s theme, “United by Flowers” For a full list of exhibitors, visit: PHSOnline.org/the-flower-show.  

The PHS Entrance Garden at the Flower Show captivates with its innovative use of water as an artistic medium. Boasting the Show’s largest-ever created body of water, this glass-like centerpiece showcases vibrant floral sculptures emerging gracefully, while a colossal aerial floral sculpture reflects enchanting colors.

Seamlessly connecting water to sky, the garden offers a modern, refreshing vibe with bold angles and a kaleidoscope of colors, evoking a serene tropical sunset. Adorned with suspended floral clouds and petals, this oasis invites contemplation, and is a polished, vibrant blend of artistry and nature. 

In an innovative approach to showcasing the rich tapestry of local neighborhoods that make the region unique, educational exhibitors designed exhibits inspired by the special characteristics of select neighborhoods. Saul High School pays homage to its neighborhood Roxborough, while Temple University evokes the spirit of South Philly’s Pennsport.

The Lakeside School honors the famed Italian Market and Mercer County Community College celebrates the bond between Northeast Philadelphia and Trenton. Meanwhile, the University of Delaware encapsulates the essence of Spring Garden, and Delaware Valley University garners inspiration from the charming suburban town, Doylestown. 

The 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show runs through March 10 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Tickets are on sale now at tickets.phsonline.org, with flexible ticket options starting at $29.99. 

Each visitor who purchases a Flower Show ticket, attends a Flower Show special event, or becomes a PHS member contributes to PHS advancing health and well-being through gardening. Through planting trees, supporting neighborhood greening, improving access to fresh food through community gardens, providing job training, managing public gardens, and connecting people with horticulture, PHS helps improve quality of life for all in the region. 

To stay up to date with the latest information on the 2024 Flower Show, visit phsonline.org/the-flower-show. 

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Marx Brothers at WST’s Groucho: A Life in Revue

Last week, I was happy to catch the opening night of GROUCHO: A LIFE IN REVUE, a must-see for anyone who needs a laugh!

The Marx Brothers had a historic three-month run 100 years ago at the Walnut with this hilarious and moving tribute to ‘The Kings of Comedy.’ Original New York and London’s Olivier Award-nominated star and Walnut favorite Frank Ferrante along with a versatile cast take you from The Marx Brothers’ earliest days in vaudeville to film, stage, radio, and television stardom. This spirited musical comedy features classic songs and chronicles the remarkable rags-to-riches story of America’s funniest entertainer.

The legendary Marx Brothers performed their musical-comedy revue, I’LL SAY SHE IS, at Walnut Street Theatre from June 4th through September 1st, 1923, and to this day it holds the record for the Walnut’s longest running show. The following spring, after a national tour, the brothers returned to the Walnut for three weeks. On May 19th, 1924, two days after the Philadelphia closing, Groucho, Harpo, Chico, and Zeppo Marx debuted I’LL SAY SHE IS on Broadway.

Julius Henry “Groucho” Marx was a 20th century American comedian, actor, singer, writer, game show host, and vaudeville star. His trademark look—thick glasses, mustache, and greasepaint eyebrows—is a recognizable costume staple. Dubbed “Groucho Glasses,” these one-piece masks consisting of a plastic nose, black glasses, and fake mustache and eyebrows are only part of Groucho Marx’s legacy.

In addition to his solo work, Groucho performed with his brothers, appearing as “the Marx Brothers” on stage and on screen. With 14 feature films to their name, the Marx Brothers are considered among the most influential comedians of the 20th century. GROUCHO: A LIFE IN REVUE, written by Groucho Marx’s son Arthur Marx and Robert Fisher, is a tribute to the life and career of one of America’s greatest comedians.

Bringing Groucho to life as director and star of the show is Walnut favorite and lifelong Groucho devotee FRANK FERRANTE. Ferrante starred as Groucho in the show’s 1987 off-Broadway debut, marking the beginning of a decades-long career portraying the inimitable comedian. Described by The New York Times as “the greatest living interpreter of Groucho Marx’s material,” Ferrante first appeared on the Walnut mainstage 31 years ago in a production of GROUCHO: A LIFE IN REVUE and has since become a Walnut fan favorite.

Making his Walnut debut as both Harpo and Chico, the two brothers who formed the core of the Marx Brothers’ comedic act with Groucho, is MATT ROPER. The British-born actor is known for his comedic presence and has appeared in several adaptations of Marx Brothers’ material, including a production of The Cocoanuts with Frank Ferrante.

Returning to the Walnut as a Freedonian citizen and the off-stage voice of Lee Shubert and others is DAVE JOHNSON, who last appeared at WST in a production of Shipwrecked. Rounding out the cast and appearing as a variety of roles, from chorus girls to Groucho’s wives to Margaret Dumont, is DREYA WEBER, who made her Walnut debut in A Comedy of Tenors. Weber is no stranger to the Marx Brothers, having directed the stage and film versions of Frank Ferrante‘s Groucho.

Capturing the essence of the 20th century theatre experience, complete with a replica of the wooden eagle that graced the proscenium arch when the Marx Brothers took the Walnut stage 100 years ago, is Set Designer DAVID P. GORDON. Gordon, who previously designed the WST productions of Neil Simon’s Brighton Beach Trilogy, Neil Simon’s Laughter on the 23rd Floor, and Ken Ludwing’s A Comedy of Tenors, is joined by Lighting Designer and WST Technical Supervisor MATT DEMASCOLO (Beehive The 60’s Musical; Jimmy Buffet’s Escape to Margaritaville; Disney’s Beauty and the Beast) and veteran Sound Designer CHRISTOPHER COLUCCI (A Comedy of Tenors; Peter and the Starcatcher; Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?).

San Francisco based Costume Designer DEBRA BEAVER BAUER and Wig Designer CLAIRE WAID (Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?) costume the cast for a range of decades, from 1905 to 1975.

GROUCHO: A LIFE IN REVUE runs at the Walnut through March 10, 2024. For tickets and information, call 215-574-3550. Tickets are also available online 24/7 by visiting WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com.

Manayunk Presents Founders Philly Freeze-Out, MYNK Chowder Crawl and Winter Market

The ‘coolest’ festival in Philadelphia is back – and kicks off a historic year of festivities to celebrate Manayunk’s Bicentennial Celebration. Manayunk Development Corporation teams up with Founders Brewing Company to present Founders Philly Freeze Out, Freeze Out Run and 2024 MNYK Chowder Crawl, on Saturday, February 3, 2023. Main Street in Manayunk turns into a winter wonderland filled with live ice carving demonstrations and 25+ photo-worthy ice sculptures created by “ice king” Peter Slavin of Ice Sculpture Philadelphia. The day starts off with the Freeze Out Run by Philadelphia Runner and New Balance at 9:30am, followed by the Freeze Out main event from 11:00am to 4:00pm, followed by the 2024 MNYK Chowder Crawl from 12:00pm to 4:00pm.

Festivities during the day will also include the Lion Dance with New Leaf for Chinese and Lunar New Year, a new interactive ice sculpture by Philadelphia Flyers street team, a new snowy ice igloo experience and photo opportunity, offerings from popular food trucks, Founders and MNYK giveaways, a festive winter shopping pop-up market, and Founders specials at restaurants and bars up and down Main Street. Founders Philly Freeze Out is free to attend, with food, drink and shopping pay as you go. Freeze Out Run is free to participate, with advance registration required. 2024 MNYK Chowder Crawl is $15 per ticket. For event info, race registration and chowder crawl tickets, visit https://manayunk.com/events/ and follow @manayunkdotcom

“In collaboration with Founders Brewing Company and Ice Sculpture Philly, we bring ice, art, beer, and chowder together to create the ultimate winter celebration here in Manayunk,” said Manayunk Development Corporation Events Coordinator Caitlin Marsilii. “You won’t want to miss this year as we have more live carvings than ever before and the Flyers Street Team.”

“At Founders Brewing Company, we love sponsoring the Founders Freeze Out in Manayunk every year because it brings together some of the best qualities Philadelphia has to offer: community, public art, street festivities, and, of course, great beer,” said Founders Brewing Co. Market Manager Igor Simić. “The day is built around showcasing local businesses and restaurants via the unique medium of ice sculptures, and the live carvings performed by Peter Slavin and his team at Ice Sculpture Philly are must-see. Whether you’re doing some shopping on Main Street, participating in the Chowder Crawl, or stopping by a bar to try Founders’ new Mortal Bloom Hazy IPA, it’s the perfect way to shake off the post-Holiday blues and celebrate Winter one more time before Spring gets here!”

Manayunk will host one of the Philadelphia region’s coolest (literal and figurative) outdoor winter festivals with a full day of family fun along Main Street on February 3rd. Come out bright and early for the Founders Freeze-Out Run starting at 9:30am. Philadelphia Runner presents this free three mile fun run, with support from New Balance, who will be joining with shoes to test out on the run, giveaways and more. Philadelphia Runner will then debut their 2024 sculpture at the start of the festival itself. The race is free but registration is required in advance.

The Founders Philly Freeze Out main event will run from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Neighbors, friends and visitors are invited to stroll up and down the street, where they can view and take photos with 25+ glistening ice sculptures outside participating Main Street businesses. Festivities will include finished sculptures, as well as live carving demonstrations scattered throughout the day.

While strolling among the icy masterpieces, festival-goers will find frosty fun with a new snowy ice igloo experience and photo opps, hearty food offerings from popular food trucks, Founders and MNYK giveaways and other surprises. Philadelphia Flyers Street Team will be on hand as special guests this year, with a special new interactive hockey sculpture. Additionally, look for the Lion Dance with New Leaf to celebrate the Chinese and Lunar New Year.

Up and down Main Street, beer lovers can find specials from Founders Beer Company at top restaurants and bars, including: Bar Jawn, JD McGillicuddy’s, La Roca, Lucky’s Last Chance, Manayunk Brewing Co., Mia Ragazza, Ryan’s Pub, Taqueria Amor, The Couch Tomato, The Grape Room, The Goat’s Beard, Union Tap House and Winnie’s Manayunk.

From 11:00am to 4:00pm, visit the Founders Winter Market, a one-day pop-up at Richards Apex (4170 Main Street) featuring art, apparel, accessories, candles, jewelry, home goods and much more. Participating vendors so far include: Lily Lough Jewelry, Fishtown Pickle Project, Let’s Get Spooky, SouthHouse, Jewelry Designs By KL, Macramaybee, CharcuTori Events!, Shay Lynn, Sweet Batter, Botanical Funk, SPogas Art, S H Candles, G+RIZZ, From Mine, To Yours and more to be announced.

From 12:00pm to 4:00pm, come hungry for the 2024 MNYK Chowder Crawl. Manayunk restaurants will put their best spoons forward to create their own versions of winter’s favorite comfort food. Participating businesses to date include:

Chabaa Thai Bistro
JD McGillicuddy’s
Lucky’s Last Chance
Manayunk Brewing Co.
Mia Ragazza
Taqueria Amor
The Couch Tomato
The Goat’s Beard
Union Tap House
Winnie’s Manayunk
Yanako
More to be announced

Check-in runs 11:30am to 2:00pm at the Richards Apex parking lot. Tickets are on sale now for $15 each and going fast. This event sells out each and every year. Get them while they last.

For updates on live carve times, activations, event map, Chowder Crawl voting and all the frosty fun, download Let’s Rallie – the official app of Founders Philly Freeze Out.

For more about Founders Philly Freeze Out, Race and Chowder Crawl, and partners, visit https://manayunk.com/events/ and follow @manayunkdotcom @iceicephilly @foundersbrewing @philadelphiaflyers and @letsrallie.

PHS announced the 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show, “United by Flowers”

At a press conference held on Friday at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) revealed new details for the 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show, “United by Flowers” including 4 artistic renderings offering a first glimpse of what the Show will look like.  

“United by Flowers” celebrates the colorful community that comes together to share in their love of gardening, flowers, and plants, and the impact they make on our lives all year round.  Now in its 195th year, the award-winning PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is a world-renowned gardening event and PHS’s main fundraiser to support its impactful greening work that advances health and well-being in the region.

The event is known for its stunning visual displays, world-class plant competitions, family activities, artisanal crafts, educational offerings, and curated shopping. The 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show will run March 2-10 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Tickets are on sale now at tickets.phsonline.org, with flexible ticket options starting at $29.99. 

“This year’s theme, ’United by Flowers,’ focuses on coming together and we are excited to be showing all the ways that we build community with one another. From exhibits that show off the celebratory spaces that unite us to offering a series of experiences that are best when done together, there is something for every visitor to share with their loved ones at the Flower Show,” stated PHS’s Creative Director and Vice President of the Flower Show, Seth Pearsoll. 

Each visitor who purchases a Flower Show ticket, attends a Flower Show special event, or becomes a PHS member contributes to PHS advancing health and well-being through gardening. Through planting trees, supporting neighborhood greening, improving access to fresh food through community gardens, providing job training, managing public gardens, and connecting people with horticulture, PHS helps improve quality of life for all in the region. 

2024 Exhibitor Information 

The 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show will gather some of the most cutting-edge, renowned landscape architects, garden designers, horticulturists, and florists from around the world to design dozens of breathtaking exhibits capturing the essence of this year’s theme, “United by Flowers” For a full list of exhibitors, please visit: PHSOnline.org/the-flower-show.  

THE PHS ENTRANCE GARDEN 

The PHS Entrance Garden at the Flower Show will captivate with its innovative use of water as an artistic medium. Boasting the Show’s largest-ever created body of water, this glass-like centerpiece will showcase vibrant floral sculptures emerging gracefully, while a colossal aerial floral sculpture reflects enchanting colors. Seamlessly connecting water to sky, the garden offers a modern, refreshing vibe with bold angles and a kaleidoscope of colors, evoking a serene tropical sunset. Adorned with suspended floral clouds and petals, this oasis invites contemplation, and is a polished, vibrant blend of artistry and nature. 

CELEBRATING THE REGION’S NEIGHBORHOODS 

In an innovative approach to showcasing the rich tapestry of local neighborhoods that make the region unique, educational exhibitors will design exhibits inspired by the special characteristics of select neighborhoods. Saul High School will pay homage to its neighborhood Roxborough, while Temple University aims to evoke the spirit of South Philly’s Pennsport. The Lakeside School will honor the famed Italian Market and Mercer County Community College will celebrate the bond between Northeast Philadelphia and Trenton. Meanwhile, the University of Delaware plans to encapsulate the essence of Spring Garden, and Delaware Valley University will garner inspiration from the charming suburban town, Doylestown. 

RETURNING EXHIBITORS 

Apiary Studio – A landscape architecture, design/build, and experimental horticulture firm known for their use of unconventional building materials, unusual hardy plants, and adaptive reuse of urban decay, Apiary Studio’s exhibit “Right of Way” salutes highway roadsides as a unifying American experience. Shoulders, embankments, and ditches as encountered when pulling over on a road trip are in a sense a garden without a gardener, and the plants form a throughway unbound by state lines. 

Black Girl Florists – Created during the pandemic to seek community in the floral industry from other female, black florists, this nationwide collective has grown to be a recognized community that supports and celebrate black women in floristry. With their acclaimed inaugural exhibit in 2023, the Flower Show is thrilled to welcome them back. The collective will express their love and support of each other by depicting unity in a space where black women gather and connect organically — a hair salon. Set against a palette of bright colors grounded by nude tones, each area will depict the uniqueness of each florist and how their collective talent creates an atmosphere of oneness. 

Jennifer Designs – A floral event company from New Jersey whose owner and professional floral designer, Jennifer Reed, has over 20 years of experience translating her love of all art mediums into their floral form. Reed draws her inspiration from extensive experience, creating pieces that emphasize sculptural composition in design, and focused on items found in nature. Reed’s “Flower Road Trip” will showcase a larger-than-life United States floral map to express how we are all connected by flowers and gardening across the 50 states. 

Robertson’s Flowers and Events – A longtime favorite Flower Show exhibitor, Robertson’s makes its return to the Flower Show for the first time since 2020.Family-owned and operated since 1927, they have created floral designs for celebrations for generations. For their exhibit, Robertson’s will honor the geometric shapes that are found in nature and work together to create a sense of connection, like the symmetry of flower petals and the rings of trees. People from diverse backgrounds will gather at this floral table, enjoying the shapes of nature and the beauty our planet provides. 

ABOUT PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY 

The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), an internationally recognized nonprofit organization founded in 1827, uses horticulture to advance the health and well-being of the Greater Philadelphia region. PHS programs create healthier living environments, increase access to fresh food, expand access to jobs and economic opportunity, and strengthen deeper social connections between people. PHS’s work spans 250 neighborhoods; an expansive network of public gardens and landscapes; year-round learning experiences; and the nation’s signature gardening event, the Philadelphia Flower Show. PHS provides everyone with opportunities to garden for the greater good as a participant, member, donor, or volunteer.  

ABOUT THE PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW 

The PHS Philadelphia Flower Show is the nation’s largest, and the world’s longest-running horticultural event and features stunning displays by some of the world’s premier floral and landscape designers. Started in 1829 by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, the Show introduces diverse and sustainable plant varieties and garden and design concepts. In addition to acres of garden displays, the Flower Show hosts world-renowned competitions in horticulture and artistic floral arranging, gardening presentations and demonstrations, and special events.  

PHS PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW SPONSORS 

Exclusive Sponsors are Bank of America and Independence Blue Cross.  

Official Sponsors are ACME Markets, Bartlett Tree Experts, Belgard, EP Henry, Hendrick’s Gin, and The Sino-American Business & Travel Association. 

Photo Credit: Pennsylvania Horticultural Society 

Experience Edward Albee’s Tony Award-Winning Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? at WST

Earlier this week, I caught Edward Albee’s WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? at Walnut Street Theatre’s press night.

George and Martha have invited the young Nick and Honey over for a late-night party—and their lives will never be the same. A stunning portrait of two American marriages, this explosively comedic and profound masterpiece is worth seeing. Edward Albee’s WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? promises to be the most talked about play of the season!  

The actors who play George and Martha do a superb job with a sensitive topic.

Edward Albee took the theatrical world by storm with this celebrated Tony Award-winning Best Play.

Albee’s comedy was first staged in 1962 at the Billy Rose Theatre and went on to win the 1963 Tony Award for Best Play and the 1962–1963 New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Play. The play explores dysfunctional relationships and social expectations in a way that still resonates with audiences. Deeply invested in the tension between reality and illusion, Edward Albee asks audiences to investigate the role of fiction and illusion in their own lives. The play has been adapted into an Academy Award-winning film, banned for profanity, and nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. 

Bringing this masterpiece to life is the Walnut’s own Producing Artistic Director BERNARD HAVARD.

Havard’s Walnut directorial credits include Tennessee Wiliams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof; Noël Coward’s Blithe Spirit; Oscar Wilde’s A Woman of No Importance; The Humans; God of Carnage; ART; Someone to Watch Over Me; Skylight; and Driving Miss Daisy. He has spent his life in theatre as an actor, stage manager, director, managing director and producer. Recognized as one of America’s leading theatre producers, he has proudly served America’s Oldest Theatre for 42 years. Under his leadership, the Walnut became a not-for-profit, self-producing theatre, and has gained international recognition as one of America’s premier regional theatres.

Havard is joined by Assistant Director MARY MARTELLO, fresh from her role as Mrs. Potts in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

Playing the role of George, a history professor at New Carthage University and host of the night’s soiree, is Walnut veteran GREG WOOD. Wood has appeared on the WST mainstage in Noises Off; The Humans; Harvey; Private Lives; God of Carnage; Other Desert Cities.

Returning to the Walnut to play George’s unhappy, domineering wife Martha is SUSAN RILEY STEVENS. Stevens’ Walnut credits include Neil Simon’s Last of the Red Hot Lovers; Blithe Spirit; The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Noises Off; Fallen Angels; God of Carnage; A Streetcar Named Desire.

Joining the party as Nick, the eager new faculty member and husband to Honey, is BRANDON O’ROURKE. O’Rourke has appeared in numerous WST productions, including Oscar Wilde’s A Woman of No Importance; Peter and the Starcatcher; Oliver!; and Les Misérables. Making her WST debut as Honey, Nick’s childish wife and the fourth member of the night’s party, is ANNA D. BAILEY. Bailey’s favorite credits include Annie (Grace); Matilda (Miss Honey); Goodnight, Mrs. Puffin (Pamela); Too Many Cooks (Honey).

Bringing to life the tense, intimate setting of George and Martha’s home is Scenic Designer ROMAN TATAROWICZ. His designs have been seen onstage at the Walnut in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Blithe Spirit, Thurgood, and many other memorable shows. Tatarowicz is joined by Lighting Designer RYAN O’GARA (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time), and veteran Sound Designer CHRISTOPHER COLUCCI (A Comedy of Tenors, The Humans, Peter and the Starcatcher). Wig Designer and former WST apprentice CLAIRE WAID along with Costume Coordinator NATALIA DE LA TORRE ensure that the partygoers look their best for this life-altering late-night party.

EDWARD ALBEE’S WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? runs at the Walnut through February 4, 2024. For tickets and information, call 215-574-3550. Tickets are also available online 24/7 by visiting WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com.

Greg Wood, Brandon O’Rourke, Anna D. Bailey, and Susan Riley Stevens in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Photo by Mark Garvin.

WST’s Beauty and the Beast is a Magical Production this Holiday

Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is a timeless, enchanting story of love and hope and a delightful holiday season treat for the entire family.It runs at the Walnut through the holiday season ending December 31, 2023.The production is directed by Glenn Casale and choreographed by Kim Arnett.

Originally based on a French fairytale, and reimagined with the classic 1991 animated feature film, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST tells the story of a prince cursed by a magic spell and the bookish Belle who stumbles on his enchanted castle and, with the help of his spellbound servants, helps him break the curse.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST will enchant audiences with a ‘tale as old as time,’ featuring all the classic songs from the animated film, including “Belle,” “Be Our Guest,” and “Beauty and the Beast.” The staged version combines the beloved songs of the animated film with an expanded score and 6 additional songs.

The 1991 film, directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise, featured songs by lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken. Met with great critical and commercial success, Beauty and the Beast went on to become the first animated film nominated for Best Picture Academy Award. Following the success of the film, the first staged production on Broadway went on to receive 9 Tony Award nominations, on its way to playing 5,461 performances before taking its final bow in 2007.

The Walnut’s production features a company of 25 performers and a live orchestra. Glenn Casale, who directed the Walnut’s Mainstage productions of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella and Disney’s The Little Mermaid, returns to direct. Casale directed the 2012 Dutch production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, the national tour, and several regional productions in the States.

Chris Burcheri returns as Music Director, having just completed ELVIS – A Musical Revolution at the Walnut, and Kim Arnett serves as choreographer making her WST Debut. Burcheri, currently in his fourth season providing music and vocal direction at the Walnut, took the podium in the 2022-23 season for Rocky the Musical, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, and Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville.

Making his return and Walnut Street Theatre mainstage debut as the cursed and “hideous” Beast Prince is Daniel Wisniewski. Wisniewski, a native of Northeast Philadelphia, did his acting apprenticeship at Walnut Street Theatre in 2018. Wisnieski’s Off-Broadway credits include Romeo and Bernadette and The Imbible: Day Drinking. Hisregional theatre credits include Men with Money and 1776.

Also returning to the Walnut, bringing to life the role of the strong, independent, and book-loving Belle is Julia Udine. Udine was last seen on stage at the Walnut in Shrek the Musical. Udine is best known for her four-year stint as Christne in The Phantom of the Opera both on Broadway and in the 25th Anniversary National Tour. She is a Voorhees, NJ native and attended Pennsylvania State University before leaving to join the tour of Phantom at 19 years old. 

Returning as Lumiere and Cogsworth, the Prince’s charming French valet and his excitable English major-domo, are Dana Orange and Fran Prisco, respectively. Orange has been seen on stage at the Walnut in the tropical journey of Escape to Margaritaville, and Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Fran Prisco is celebrating over 23 years of productions at the Walnut, starting with Singin’ in the Rain in 2000. Other credits include Rocky the Musical, Young Frankenstein, and South Pacific.

Returning as Belle’s slightly addled genius inventor father is Walnut veteran Bill Van Horn. Horn has performed in, written, and directed many shows at WST and most recently premiered his stage adaptation of Sherlock Holmes’ The Adventure of the Speckled Band. Additional recent credits include Escape to Margaritaville, Rocky the Musical, and Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

Returning to play Gaston, the rude and narcissistic hunter vying for Belle’s hand in marriage, is Chris Stevens. Stevens has been seen in the Walnut’s productions of Shrek the Musical and South Pacific. Playing Gaston’s fawning friend and sidekick LeFou is Giovanni DiGabriele.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast runs through December 31, 2023 which includes holiday performances. Season sponsor: PNC Arts Alive. This production is sponsored by Independence Blue Cross, Spark Therapeutics, FitlerClub, and Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC. Media Sponsors are NBC, Metro Philadelphia, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. For tickets and information, call 215-574-3550. Tickets are also available online 24/7 by visiting WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com.