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The Game is Afoot! Don’t miss SHERLOCK HOLMES: THE GREAT DETECTIVE at Walnut Street Theatre! 

Last week, I attended opening night of Walnut Street Theatre (WST)’s world premiere of SHERLOCK HOLMES: THE GREAT DETECTIVE, an adaptation of some of the most famous detective stories ever told. The show only runs through February 15. I’ve been going to see WST shows for years now, and they never disappoint.

Intrigue, adventure, and comedy unfold in SHERLOCK HOLMES: THE GREAT DETECTIVE, a world premiere adapted from the stories of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Holmes and Watson, drawn together once more, face rivalry, disguises, and mishaps galore. From Baker Street, the two embark on a whirlwind chase, complete with antics and absurd conspiracies, all masterminded by the sinister Professor Moriarty. Mayhem and whimsical mystery unfold in this all-new tale with the world’s greatest detective.  

Playwright and Director BILL VAN HORN is no stranger to the Walnut’s stage in any sense. After the smash success of Sherlock Holmes – The Adventure of the Speckled Band in WST’s 2021-22 season, he was commissioned to adapt another brand-new story about the intrepid heroes, Sherlock and Watson. WST’s beloved yearly productions of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol were also conceived and adapted by Van Horn.

In addition to leading the cast as both director and dramatist, Van Horn also returns to the role of Holmes’ familiar sidekick, Dr. John Watson, after portraying him in Sherlock Holmes – The Adventure of the Speckled Band.  

Tackling the role of the titular detective is HARRY SMITH. Audiences will remember Smith from last season’s production of Noël Coward’s Hay Fever. An avid mathematician and explorer himself, Smith is excited to return to the Walnut and make his mark on one of the world’s most iconic literary characters. DAN HODGE takes on the role of Professor James Moriarty, Holmes’ arch-nemesis and the criminal mastermind controlling Europe’s seedy underbelly.

The balance of the cast plays multiple characters, adding to the uproarious mayhem. Actress MARY MARTELLO also makes her highly anticipated return to the Walnut stage in her role as Mrs. Hudson and Others, Holmes’ long-suffering but steadfastly loyal landlady. Martello’s last appearance at Walnut Street Theatre was in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. ANNA BAILEY returns as well to portray Arabella Moriarty and Others, the sadistic younger sister of the scheming professor; audiences can recall Bailey playing opposite Smith in last season’s Noël Coward’s Hay Fever.

Rounding out the cast is DAVE JOHNSON as Detective Inspector Lestrade and Others, a determined but conventional Scotland Yard officer and a close friend of Sherlock’s. Johnson most recently appeared in Groucho: A Life in Revue.

Each member of the production’s creative team brings unique and spectacular talents to the team. Scenic Designer JASON SIMMS makes his Walnut debut as his sets transport audiences to London, the Alps, and across the continent.

Grab your bags, your closest confidant (or partner-in-crime), and get ready to leap into the hilarious mysteries of SHERLOCK HOLMES: THE GREAT DETECTIVE!

For tickets and information, visit WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com or call 215-574-3550.

Photo Credit: Dan Hodge and Dave Johnson. Photo by Mark Garvin.

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET Electrifies the Stage at Walnut Street Theatre

Last week, I attended the thrilling opening night of MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET at Walnut Street Theatre (WST). With smash hits and a story inspired by one of the greatest recording sessions in rock ‘n’ roll history, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is a must-see show! This production only runs through November 2.

This is an electrifying story of the night Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis came together to make music and ended up making history. Inspired by the actual events that took place on December 4, 1956, at Sun Records in Memphis, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is an engaging musical about a story of fame, friendship, discovery, divided loyalties, professional jealousy and incredible music.

The legendary meeting of the four musicians was masterminded by Sun Records’ founder, Sam Phillips, who brought them together to create music as a group for the first and only time in their careers. The show features over 20 smash-hits from a golden era of music including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Hound Dog,” and more. 

First premiering on Broadway in 2010 after record-breaking runs in Florida, Washington, and Chicago, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET quickly captured the attention and admiration of both audiences and critics, earning Tony nominations for Best Musical and Best Book. This jukebox musical, full of chart-topping hits inspired by rock ‘n’ roll Hall of Famers ELVIS PRESLEY, JOHNNY CASH, JERRY LEE LEWIS, and CARL PERKINS, features a book by COLIN ESCOTT and FLOYD MUTRUX, with original concept and direction by FLOYD MUTRUX.

The show later made its West End debut at the Noël Coward Theatre in 2011. Over 15 years later, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET continues to impress and delight audiences all around the world.

WST’s production is directed by longtime Walnut collaborator and favorite FRAN PRISCO. After 42 productions on the Walnut stages, Prisco makes his well-deserved directorial debut on the Walnut Mainstage. Prisco has previously directed WST’s productions of A Steady Rain and My Way in Walnut Street Theatre’s Independence Studio on 3 and most recently directed at the Fulton Theatre. In addition to leading the cast as director, Prisco takes on the role of Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Records. His other WST roles include last season’s ELF The Broadway Musical and Jersey Boys.

Portraying the four legends commonly referred to as the Quartet are MATTEO SCAMMELL (Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville)as Elvis Presley, BRIAN MICHAEL HENRY and PAUL HARROLD in their Walnut debuts as Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins respectively, and KEN SANDBERG (Jersey Boys) as Johnny Cash.

KATHRYN BRUNNER (ELF The Broadway Musical) takes on the role of Dyanne, a singer and girlfriend of Elvis’. STEVE HARDING makes his Walnut debut as Jay Perkins, brother to Carl Perkins. Associate Director JON ROSSI makes his own Walnut debut as Fluke.  

For tickets and information, visit WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com or call 215-574-3550.

Photo Credit: Brian Michael Henry, Paul Harrold, Matteo Scammell, and Ken Sandberg. Photo by Ashley Smith, Wide Eyed Studios.

DREAMGIRLS Brings Glitz, Glamour, and Soul to Walnut Street Theatre

Earlier this month, I was thrilled to attend the opening night of DREAMGIRLS at Walnut Street Theatre (WST). This dazzling production runs through May 4 and you don’t want to miss it.

Stars rise and fall… but dreams live forever! This sensational Broadway musical tells the story of a 1960s Supremes-like girl group that catches its big break during an amateur competition. But will their friendship – and their music – survive the rapid rise from obscurity to pop super stardom?

Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, DREAMGIRLS is a sweeping and inspirational journey with a dazzling production, powerhouse vocal performances, and an unforgettable score filled with pop, R&B, gospel, disco and more!

First premiering on Broadway in 1981, DREAMGIRLS took the theatre world by storm, earning six Tony Awards, including Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Book. With book and lyrics by TOM EYEN and music by HENRY KRIEGER, the show’s infectious score and dazzling spectacle quickly cemented it as a Broadway classic.

Following its acclaimed original run, DREAMGIRLS was reimagined for a new generation in a star-studded 2006 film adaptation, which won two Academy Awards. In 2016, the show made its long-awaited West End debut at London’s Savoy Theatre, where it played to sold-out crowds and earned critical acclaim, including two Olivier Awards for acting performances. Decades after its debut, DREAMGIRLS continues to shine as a beloved staple of musical theatre, capturing the soul and spirit of an era.

WST’s production is helmed by director and choreographer GERRY MCINTYRE, whose dynamic work has been celebrated nationwide. McIntyre made his WST debut as choreographer for Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Acclaimed for his choreography in the Berkshire Theatre Group’s Godspell, McIntyre has directed previously at The York, The Hangar Theatre, and others; his choreography credits include Ain’t Misbehavin’, Anything Can Happen in The Theatre, Side by Side, Tommy and My Fair Lady at the Berkshire Theatre Festival.

CHRIS BURCHERI returns as Music Director, having completed Jersey Boys and ELF The Broadway Musical at the Walnut earlier this season. Burcheri, currently in his fifth season providing music and vocal direction at the Walnut, first took the podium in the 2019-20 season and has led productions such as Rocky the Musical, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. 

Leading the cast as The Dreams, the trio at the heart of the story, are AVEENA SAWYER as the powerhouse Effie White, GABRIELLE BECKFORD as the ambitious Deena Jones, and KHALIFA WHITE as the lively Lorrell Robinson; all three are making their Walnut debuts in these roles. CHALI COOKE (Beautiful – The Carole King Musical) joins as Michelle, rounding out the evolving girl group as they navigate the music industry’s highs and lows. 

E. CLAYTON CORNELIOUS makes his Walnut debut as he takes on the role of the electrifying James “Thunder” Early, with JARRAN MUSE also making his debut as the smooth yet ruthless Curtis Taylor Jr. DEVIN L. ROBERTS (Hairspray) portrays C.C. White, the young songwriter with big dreams, while Tony Award nominee (The Scottsboro Boys) FORREST MCCLENDON (Finian’s Rainbow)brings to life Marty, the group’s steadfast advocate and mentor.

The production’s talented ensemble features ANNE BRAGG (Beautiful – The Carole King Musical), CORNELIUS DAVIS (Beautiful – The Carole King Musical), BONNIE KELLY (ELF The Broadway Musical), ANDREW LEGGIERI (Mary Poppins), ZUMMY MOHAMMED (ELF The Broadway Musical), DANA ORANGE (Jersey Boys), and SIERRA WILSON (ELF The Broadway Musical), all bringing vibrant energy and stunning vocals to the stage.

Bringing DREAMGIRLS to life behind the scenes is an exceptionally creative team.

Emmy Award-winning scenic designer ANDY WALMSLEY debuts his designs on the Walnut stage while he sets the stage with dynamic visuals. Lighting designer JOSE SANTIAGO enhances the production’s vibrant atmosphere with his Walnut debut as well. ED CHAPMAN (ELF The Broadway Musical) delivers an immersive experience for audiences as sound designer, ensuring every note resonates.

DUSTIN CROSS captures the era’s elegance with dazzling costume design, and DESTINEE STEELE completes the cast’s transformations with stunning wig and makeup design; both make their Walnut debuts with their fantastic designs. Together, this team crafts a visually spectacular experience that transports audiences into the heart of The Dreams’ journey.

With its heart-pounding music, show stopping performances, and dazzling spectacle, DREAMGIRLS is an unmissable theatrical event!

For tickets and information, visit WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com or call 215-574-3550.

Khalifa White, Gabrielle Beckford, and Aveena Sawyer in Dreamgirls. Photo by Mark Garvin

A Riotous Comedy of Manners: Noël Coward’s HAY FEVER Runs at Walnut Street Theatre

Walnut Street Theatre (WST) is presenting Noël Coward’s classic comedy HAY FEVER as part of their 216th season of dreams. The show is running through March 9.

From Noël Coward, the master of elegant comedy, HAY FEVER. Judith Bliss, the once glittering star of the London stage, is still enjoying life with more than a little high drama and the occasional big scene. To spice up her weekend, she invites a young admirer to join her in the country, but her novelist husband and two children also have the same idea, and their unassuming visitors are thrown into a living melodrama. Misjudged meetings, secret seductions and scandalous revelations run riot at the most eccentric of all house parties.  

HAY FEVER premiered in London’s West End in 1925 and quickly became a hallmark of British theatre. Inspired by Coward’s stay at the home of actress Laurette Taylor, the play showcases Coward’s signature wit and mastery of comedic dialogue. Widely celebrated for its elegant humor, HAY FEVER solidified Coward’s reputation as one of the leading playwrights of his time.

Over the decades, the play has enjoyed numerous revivals on stages around the world, earning its status as a timeless classic in the theatrical canon. WST’s production is a partner of The Noël Coward Foundation’s Anniversary Celebration, as part of celebrating 125 years of Noël Coward.

Directing this production is BILL VAN HORN, who appeared as Santa in ELF The Broadway Musical earlier this season. Van Horn’s recent Walnut Mainstage productions as director include Sherlock Holmes- The Adventure of the Speckled Band, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime, Peter and the Starcatcher, Around the World in 80 Days, and The Glass Menagerie. 

Portraying the famed Bliss family matriarch, Judith, is Walnut veteran ALICIA ROPER (Noël Coward’s Blithe Spirit). Judith’s husband, David Bliss, is portrayed by DAN OLMSTEAD (Popcorn Falls); BRANDON O’ROURKE (Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?) and ANNA BAILEY (Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?) play Judith’s adult children: the artistic Simon and quick-witted Sorel, respectively, and round out the Bliss family.

Filling in the world around the eccentric Bliss family is Clara, the family’s reluctant housekeeper, portrayed by CHARLOTTE NORTHEAST (An Ideal Husband), as well as the various invited guests. JARED CALHOUN portrays Judith’s guest, Sandy, in his Walnut Mainstage debut and PATRICIA NOONAN also makes her Walnut debut as Myra, the sophisticated and sharp-tongued guest of David. Rounding out the cast is ELLIE MOONEY (Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical) as sweet and timid flapper Jackie, and HARRY SMITH (And Then There Were None) as Sorel Bliss’ guest, Richard Greatham. Each member of the cast brings a unique flair to this ensemble-driven comedy, ensuring an evening full of laughter and surprises.

The talented creative team behind the show brings a wealth of expertise and artistry to this production. The group of Walnut favorites includes MARY FOLINO (A Woman of No Importance) as costume designer, ROMAN TATAROWICZ (Driving Miss Daisy) as scenic designer, TESS JAMES as lighting designer, CHRISTOPHER COLUCCI (Driving Miss Daisy) as sound designer, and AMARI CALLAWAY (Driving Miss Daisy) as wig designer. Together, this exceptional team ensures a visually stunning and immersive theatrical experience.

For tickets and information, visit WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com or call 215-574-3550.

Noël Coward is pictured below.

Celebrate the Transformative Power of Friendship in Driving Miss Daisy

Walnut Street Theatre (WST) is running the heartwarming and thought-provoking classic story DRIVING MISS DAISY – only through February 2.  

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, DRIVING MISS DAISY is about the transformative power of friendship. Miss Daisy is an elderly Jewish widow who is struggling to come to terms with her diminishing independence. After a car crash, her son convinces her to take on a chauffeur and hires an African American driver named Hoke.

Set in Atlanta from the late 1940s to early 1970s, the relationship between Miss Daisy and Hoke changes from one of employer and employee to a deep friendship, as they encounter issues of growing old, race and class in an America fighting for equal civil rights.

Written by ALFRED UHRY, the show won the 1988 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and was the first in Uhry’s Atlanta Trilogy. It premiered off-Broadway in 1987 and was later staged on Broadway in 2010. The play inspired a screen adaptation starring Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman, which went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture.

Directing this production is Walnut Street Theatre Producing Artistic Director BERNARD HAVARD. Havard’s recent Walnut Mainstage productions include Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Viriginia Woolf?; Tennessee Williams’ Cat on a Hot Tin Roof; Noël Coward’s Blithe Spirit; Oscar Wilde’s A Woman of No Importance; The Humans; God of Carnage; and ART.

Havard 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.

The show also features an outstanding cast of Walnut favorites. WENDY SCHARFMAN (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof) portrays the titular Miss Daisy, a fiercely independent and sharp-witted Jewish widow grappling with aging and her own prejudices. JOHNNIE HOBBS JR. (Thurgood) takes on the role of Hoke, a patient and wise African American chauffeur who brings warmth and resilience to his evolving friendship with Miss Daisy.

Rounding out this talented cast is SCOTT GREER (Last of the Red Hot Lovers) as Boolie, Daisy’s pragmatic and good-hearted son, who juggles his mother’s stubbornness with his desire to do what’s best for her and often serving as the bridge between Daisy and Hoke.

Each of these performers brings a wealth of experience to this intimate and powerful story and have long been celebrated for their dynamic performances.

The creative team of returning Walnut favorites includes scenic design by ROMAN TATAROWICZ (BEAUTIFUL- The Carole King Musical), lighting design by RYAN O’GARA (Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?), sound design by CHRISTOPHER COLUCCI (GROUCHO: A Life in Revue), and wig design by AMARI CALLAWAY (Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of The Speckled Band).

The production’s set will transform the Walnut’s stage into the world of Atlanta from the 1940s to the 1970s.

For tickets and information, visit WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com or call 215-574-3550.

Photo Credit: Johnnie Hobbs, Jr. and Wendy Scharfman in Driving Miss Daisy. Photo by Mark Garvin.

ELF The Broadway Musical Brings Holiday Cheer to Walnut Street Theatre

The charming story of Buddy the elf is here at the Walnut Street Theatre (WST). Travel with Buddy from the North Pole all the way to New York City in ELF The Broadway Musical. The show runs only through December 29.

Based on one of the most beloved holiday films and top streamed films of all time, ELF The Broadway Musical is the story of Buddy, who mistakenly crawled into Santa’s bag as a baby and was raised as an elf! Buddy is unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth.

With Santa’s permission, he embarks on a journey to New York City with dreams to find his birth father and discover his true identity. What’s an adopted elf to do when he realizes his father is on Santa’s ‘naughty’ list and his half-brother doesn’t believe that there is a Santa Claus? It’s up to Buddy to save Christmas in this hilarious and charming Broadway musical.

ELF is based on the New Line Cinema film by DAVID BERENBAUM and with a book by THOMAS MEEHAN and BOB MARTIN, music by MATTHEW SKLAR, and lyrics by CHAD BEGUELIN. The show premiered on Broadway in 2010, where it was embraced as a hilarious, charming adaptation of a holiday classic. The show features a selection of original songs infused with holiday cheer, including “Happy All The Time,” “Sparklejollytwinklejingley,” and “Nobody Cares About Santa.” This holiday season, it’s up to one very tall elf to save Christmas.

GLENN CASALE, who previously directed the Walnut’s Mainstage productions of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, 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. His work also includes the 1999 Broadway revival of Peter Pan, which received a Tony nomination for Best Revival of a Musical, as well as the National Tour of Peter Pan and the A&E television production.  

CHRIS BURCHERI returns as Music Director, having just completed Jersey Boys at the Walnut. Burcheri, currently in his fifth season providing music and vocal direction at the Walnut, first took the podium in the 2019-20 season and has led productions such as Rocky the Musical, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. 

ROBBIE ROBY also returns as Choreographer. Roby previously choreographed for the Walnut’s production of Shrek The Musical and his work as a choreographer has also been seen in Broadway Backwards (New Amsterdam Theatre), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (La Mirada and Pittsburgh CLO), Disney’s The Little Mermaid (The 5th Avenue Theatre), Hairspray (Sugar Loaf PAC), and Little Shop of Horrors (Sacramento Music Circus).  

Making his Walnut debut is Broadway and West End star NIC ROULEAU as Buddy the Elf, a human who’s been raised at the North Pole since infancy. Rouleau is best known for his record-breaking 2600 performances as Elder Price in the Tony Award-winning musical The Book of Mormon. Walnut veteran KATHRYN BRUNNER (Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella) portrays Jovie, a practical Macy’s elf. The jolly BILL VAN HORN (Sherlock Homes: The Adventure of the Speckled Band) appears as the big man himself, Santa Claus.

Walnut favorite FRAN PRISCO (Jersey Boys) returns to the stage as Walter Hobbs, along with KRISTINE FRAELICH (Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella) as Emily Hobbs, BONNIE KELLY (Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella) as Deb, PAUL

L. NOLAN (A Woman of No Importance) as Mr. Greenway, and TIARA J. GREENE (Elvis – A Musical Revolution) as Macy’s Manager. JOEY CAROTO (Elvis – A Musical Revolution) plays Michael Hobbs, shared with FINN VAJAPEY making his Walnut debut. Boy on Santa’s Lap will be shared by NORA SHUTE in her Walnut debut and FAYE STOCKMAL (Cat on a Hot Tin Roof).

Also returning to the Walnut stage as New York locals and North Pole residents are Dance Captain AUDREY BIEHL SIMMONS (Jersey Boys), GIOVANNI DIGABRIELLE (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), KIMBERLY MAXSON (Jersey Boys), SIERRA WILSON (Beautiful – The Carole King Musical), SARA BROPHY (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), EDDIE OLMO II (Jersey Boys), ALEXANDRA FROHLINGER (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), BRETT-MARCO GLAUSER (Mamma Mia!), JESSE JONES (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), and ZUMMY MOHAMMED (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast). 

Making their WST Mainstage acting debuts and rounding out the adult cast are MADELINE KENDALL and DOMINICK SANNELLI.

The production’s set has been designed specifically for the Walnut by returning designers. Scenic Designer ROBERT ANDREW KOVACH (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast) is joined by Lighting Designer MATT DEMASCOLO (Jersey Boys), Assistant Lighting Designer JEN DONSKY (Jersey Boys), Costume Designer KATE BERGH (Shrek the Musical), and Sound Designer ED CHAPMAN (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast). With cheerful colors and glistening snow, these favorites have brought the North Pole and New York City to the Walnut’s stage, complete with the beautiful Empire State Building.

Don’t walk 3,408 miles from the North Pole to New York when Walnut Street Theatre brings the holidays to you! 

For tickets and information, visit WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.com or call 215-574-3550.

Holiday events in Philly and the suburbs

Here are some festive holiday food and beverage happenings and specials this December in Philadelphia and the suburbs.

Frankford Hall-idays

This December, Frankford Hall is turning up the holiday cheer with its annual Frankford HALL-idays, a festive celebration filled with family-friendly fun, delicious seasonal offerings, and a chance to give back to the community. Featuring Santa visits, kids’ activities, and special holiday food and drinks, it’s the perfect outing for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.

The festivities will take place on the following dates and times, with Santa on-site for photo opportunities.

  • 12/8/2024 (Sunday): 4pm-8pm
  • 12/14/2024 (Saturday): 12pm-4pm
  • 12/15/2024 (Sunday): 12pm-4pm
  • 12/21/2024 (Saturday): 12pm-4pm
  • 12/22/2024 (Sunday): 10am-2pm

Guests can enjoy festive beverage specials like hot cider, Glühwein (mulled wine), hot cocoa (spiked options available), and Christmas beer. Food lovers can look forward to a family-style butcher board and other seasonal surprises. For little ones, PlayArts will lead holiday-themed arts and crafts, keeping the fun going for all ages.

As part of the celebration, Frankford Hall is giving back to the community by selling holiday ornaments, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Lutheran Settlement House, a Fishtown-based nonprofit supporting families in need.

Breakfast with Santa and Lunch with the Grinch at Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia

Breakfast with Santa
Kick off your holiday cheer at Hard Rock Cafe Philly from 10:00a.m. to 11:30a.m. with a magical breakfast buffet hosted by Santa Claus himself. Enjoy the warm ambiance of holiday decorations and iconic Hard Rock memorabilia while savoring a delicious breakfast spread of eggs, breakfast meats, potatoes, fresh fruit, and more. Activities include story time with Santa, photo opportunities, a balloon twister, ornament decorating, and other festive surprises. Tickets are available for purchase here.

Lunch with the Grinch
For an afternoon of holiday fun, join The Grinch for a festive lunch buffet from 12p.m to 1:30p.m. Delight in Hard Rock classics like tupelo tenders, twisted mac & cheese, cheeseburger sliders, and more. Guests will also enjoy story time and photos with The Grinch, along with balloon twisting, ornament decorating, and additional holiday fun! Tickets are available for purchase here.

Hard Rock Philly’s Holiday Specials

Celebrate the holiday season with festive cocktails at Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia, crafted to bring warmth and cheer to every gathering. Sip on winter favorites from the new Holiday Menu, like the Sleighride Sangria, a merry mix of red wine, Bombay Sapphire Gin, and Fever-Tree Elderflower Tonic, or the bold Blackberry Rocker, blending Teremana Reposado Tequila, blackberries, rosemary simple syrup, and cranberry juice. For a cozy treat, try the Polar Express-o, featuring Jameson® Irish Whiskey, chilled coffee, Kahlúa, and cream – served with a collectible glass!

For a full holiday feast, Hard Rock will be open on Christmas, serving a special holiday menu. 2 courses are $35, and a full three course meal including desserts is $41. Begin with a classic Caesar salad or a seasonal berry salad, followed by entrée options including baby back ribs, steak frites, grilled salmon, and the cranberry burger – a wintry twist featuring red wine cranberry chutney, shoestring onions, arugula, and provolone. End your meal on a sweet note with caramel apple cheesecake.

Holiday Food & Drink Happenings at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Celebrate the holiday season with exciting culinary events and specials at the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art, featuring pop-ups, takeovers, and festive delights. Tickets to the museum are required to dine and can be purchased here:

  • Dec. 20 – Stir Restaurant Takeover:
    • Chef Nana of Georgina’s Kitchen brings her acclaimed Ghanaian and West African cuisine to Stir Restaurant, showcasing a unique and flavorful dining experience. Reservations can be made here.
  • Dec. 26 – Jan. 1 – Down North Pizza Station Takeover:
    • Down North Pizza takes over the café’s pizza station, offering their creative and crave-worthy pies.
  • Dec. 6 – Jan. 3 – Holiday Specials:
    • Enjoy festive cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, and seasonal holiday desserts available during Friday Night Lounge and at the café.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City has decked the halls at their iconic Lobby Bar transforming it into the Rockin’ Holiday Bar through Dec. 31. Along with your favorite bands, the Rockin’ Holiday Bar will feature festive holiday-themed cocktails including the White Christmas Margarita featuring coconut, tequila and lime, the Sugar Cookie Martini crafted with vanilla vodka, Irish cream, butterscotch and half and half, cranberry mimosa featuring champagne, cranberry and ginger beer, and the Peppermint Martini that includes the classic peppermint and creamy vanilla flavors of the season.  

Christmas Dinner at Revolution Chop House

Revolution Chop House at Valley Forge Casino Resort in King of Prussia invites guests to celebrate the season with a special Christmas dinner featuring a festive menu. Begin with a rich lobster bisque, and for the entrée, guests can choose between braised lamb shank with creamy herb polenta and rosemary mushroom demi-glace or the seven fishes seafood risotto with lobster, halibut, shrimp, and more in a saffron fumet. For a sweet finish, enjoy the Rum Raisin Bread Pudding with eggnog anglaise. This elegant dining experience offers a cozy yet refined setting, perfect for making holiday memories.

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.