Montgomery Ticket May 31/June 1 by 21st Century Newspapers PA

Page 10 Photo for Ticket by EVE M. QUATTRONE

Even a humble bruschetta looks scrumptious at Huntingdon Valley’s great new Italian, Arugula Ristorante. Page 6

The oddball musical “Lucky Stiff” runs at Norristown’s Centre Theater from June 1 to June 24.

Donna Usher’s brightly bespeckled “Meditation Chairs” are among the wonderful Adirondack chairs on view (and available for sitting!) through Labor Day in the Morris Arboretum and Woodmere Art Museum exhibition at the arboretum, whose summertime Garden Railway is also up and chugging through Labor Day.

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& Much More

Photo courtesy of Morris Arboretum

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Memorable Memorial Day Hedgerow creates an unambiguous work of ‘Art’ By Frank D. Quattrone Ticket Editor

emorial Day was memorable indeed. I spent most of the day doing something unusual — not working (for a change). I know, I know — you’re thinking, “But he’s writing his column, right? That’s work, isn’t it?” Well, yes and no. It’s work because the finger pads on my left hand are throbbing with pain. Yep, after a lovely date with Evie at the local Giant super store (we have fun doing anything together!), I settled in for another date with my trusty old Martin. I’m making progress, my dearest friend tells me. (From her mouth to youknow-who’s ears!) After just 30 minutes of caterwauling (my voice just ain’t what it used to be — maybe it never was!) and strumming the strings like a 10-year-old just setting out to conquer

the music world, I realized that my left leg was numb and my back was aching from the awkward position I had taken as I plunked away on the bed, under lighting inadequate to read my music (yep — most of the chords and lyrics of my old favorites had slipped away, and the new songs I’m trying to master are printed on lines too small for these seen-it-all eyes), and — in general, I sounded godawful! But not as bad as two weeks ago. Maybe Evie is right. Just hang in there, kid! Speaking of you-knowwho: I spent part of the day reading a book called “The Last Testament: A Memoir by God,” a mildly satiric, somewhat silly take on all things religious and historical, written by David Javerbaum, a former head writer and executive producer of “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” It makes me laugh. And that can’t be all bad, right?

Frank-ly Speaking

Your Entry into Arts & Entertainment

Ticket A Journal Register Company Newspaper Published by Montgomery Newspapers Fort Washington, PA 19034 215-542-0200, ext. 201 215-643-9475 FAX E-mail address: ticket@montgomerynews.com

Edward S. Condra Senior Publisher Shelley J. Meenan General Manager Michael E. Morsch Executive Editor Kristin Conran Sales Manager Bernie DeAngelis Controller Larry Heron Art Director

Frank D. Quattrone Editor

Visit Ticket on the web: www.montgomerynews.com

By Alexa Kelly Ticket Intern he ties that bind us and those that sever: Often hard to identify and harder to ignore when problems arise. Or, as is the case in the Hedgerow Theatre’s current production of “Art,” when an expensive painting rocks the foundation of three men and their complicated, wry and perplexing relationship. Written by French playwright Yasmina Reza, “Art” debuted in 1994, quickly becoming an international success. Translated by Christopher Hampton, the well-layered and well-admired comedy went on to receive a Tony Award. Photo by RICK PRIEUR Serge (Leonard C. Haas), Marc Leonard C. Haas (back), Zoran Kovcic and Tom Teti star in “Art” at the Hedgerow. (Tom Teti) and Yvan (Zoran Kovcic), three decently well-off Parisian men, find themselves embittered by a clash frontation are broken up by a number doned, Teti’s Marc evolves as the of ideologies. Fascinated by moderni- of insightful sidebar monologues, conflict climaxes. Made possible by ty and culture, Serge purchases a Teti’s emotional mutability, the charcandidly delivered by each of the $200,000 painting, to the chagrin of acter maintains an endearing sense of three performers to show the stark Marc, a conservative engineer. Marc pride. (and frequently amusing) contrast balks at the “masterpiece,” a white Kovcic’s Yvan proves to be a simbetween thoughts and actions. canvas adorned Feeding off each other as pering sadsack, a somewhat shallow with a few diagonal interpretation of the nonconfrontawell as the audience, the white lines, while tional middleman. His yo-yoing actors don’t miss a beat Yvan tries desperately to between sides coupled with his desire in Reza’s tit-for-tat diakeep the peace. for peace creates moments of logue. Sardonic humor Like the controversial comedic resonance as the ire turns abounds, with their neupainting, the towards him. rotic over-analyses of Hedgerow’s production Just as it acts as a catalyst for the and thinly-veiled jabs presents a light interpremen’s disagreements, the painting at one another. “Art” tation of Reza’s work, Though at times over- provides a focal point for the show’s continues with a few dark shades set design. In his dual role as perflamboyant and lacking at the Hedgerow Theatre, as the play progresses. 64 Rose Valley Road, former and scenic designer, Kovcic subtlety, Haas endows Director Penelope Reed Media, PA 19063, arrays blocky white furniture and offSerge with convincing through June 17. steers the show with a white walls as the backdrop of frustration and Tickets: $25 - $32. winning amalgamation Serge’s apartment, the primary locaunabashed resoluteness, Info: 610-565-4211 or of physical, situational tion of the play’s action. a man forging an identity www.hedgerowtheatre.org. and ironic humor, while John Tiedeck’s lighting transitions in his refusal to apolopaying homage to the are often too abrupt, though the final gize for his new love — story’s more somber questions of the spotlight on the much-contested the artwork. definitions of art and friendship. Smug and condescending, infuriatContinued on page 18 Scenes of passive-aggressive coned and passionate, hurt and aban-

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Coming in next week’s Ticket . . . Look for features on music artists Kinky Friedman (Sellersville Theater 1894) and Sharon Katz & Peace Train (opening the Pastrorius Park summer series), plus previews of upcoming plays “Angels in America, Part One: Millennium Approaches” (Wilma Theater), “Any Wednesday” (Montgomery Theater), “High Spirits” (Forge Theatre) and “Beautiful Boy” (People’s Light”), plus a review of “Lucky Stiff” at Norristown’s Centre Theater. There will also be a “Ticket to Dining” column on Willow Grove’s Colonial QuyBau as well as columns on wine, books and more.

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From 'Dancing in His Underwear' to the Ambler Theater stage

By Mary Cantell

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Along the nostalgic timetable, you’ll discover that the underlying thread f you’re familiar with that weaves his memoirs the journalism of Mike together is music, and you’ll Morsch, executive edicome to appreciate the tune tor of Montgomery of his journey as it plays out Media, then you’ll be with complete candor in an happy to know he’s easy-to-read style. written a book. “The idea for the book With even a cursory became clear during a series glance at his of interviews in award-winning 2011 with writing — both Chuck Negron his “Outta Left of Three Dog Field” blog and Night, Tom also print Johnston of the pieces — Doobie you’ll no Brothers, and doubt have Dewey Bunnell Mike Morsch, met up with of America,” w/ Dan May, will appear his delightfully said Morsch. at Ambler Theater, 108 E. Butler Ave., pithy, someThe singers Ambler, PA 19002, what “sidehad been assoTuesday, June 12, 7 - 9 p.m. ways” (as he ciated to some Free event. calls it) humor. degree with Info: 215-345-7855, Well, he’s writing or perwww.amblertheater.org or taken that soundtrack.edupublisher.com forming the direction in his music that lent new 200+ page book titled to his wonderful memories, “Dancing in My Underwear: “like my high school prom The Soundtrack of My Life,” … or the first time I inadverwhere he entertains readers tently witnessed what we through 28 true-to-life now call a ‘wardrobe malvignettes chronicling highfunction.’” lights of his life, beginning Morsch’s early days with with his growing-up years the music that became the in the rural Midwest. backdrop of his life’s most Correspondent

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memorable scenes have segued now, years later, into serendipitous encounters with the artists of that same music through his work in the newspaper business. In addition to the front guys for the Doobie Brothers, America and Three Dog Night, he’s had interview opportunities and oneon-one encounters with members of the Association, Kiss, the Beach Boys, the Monkees, Hall & Oates, the Grass Roots, the Four

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Seasons and the Bellamy Brothers, as well as Olivia Newton-John, Barry Manilow and Wynonna Judd, among many others in the entertainment business. Even movie and television actors blend into his mix of celebrities, including a “meet and greet” with Al Harrington of “Hawaii FiveO.” Who can forget the riveting blend of percussionbrass-string rhythms by the Continued on page 13

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KeswickTheatre.com

ENTER TO WIN A pair of Tickets to Scala & Kolacny Brothers June 17, 8:00pm • Keswick Theatre plus a gift certificate Dinner for two at Roller’s Flying Fish Montgomery Media’s executive editor, Mike Morsch, will sign and discuss his first book, “Dancing in My Underwear: The Soundtrack of My Life,” at Ambler Theater on Tuesday, June 12. Singersongwriter Dan May (right) will perform at the event.

(excludes alcohol and gratuity). 8142 Germantown Ave., Phila., Pa 19118

Name ___________________________________________ Address _________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Email ___________________________________________ Phone __________________________________________ Entries must be received Wednesday, June 6th. Winner will be notified by Thursday, June 7th. Send entries to: Tickets, Montgomery Media 290 Commerce Drive, Fort Washington, PA 19034

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By Craig Ostroff Correspondent

o more pencils, no more books … it’s back to guitars and microphones. For Honey Brook singersongwriter Nicole Zell, her recent high school graduation means much more than the end of tests and term papers. It means she can get back to business. The business of making and performing her music. “I would be a junior, but I’m graduating one year early to focus on my music,” said the homeschooled Zell. “I can’t juggle school and my career at the same time. So it’ll be nice to get that out of the way and be able to go back to doing what I love.” In addition to her schoolwork, Zell is a regular on the revived “Dancin’ on Air” television show, despite her own

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admission that she can’t dance. “I saw it on Facebook and on a whim, I went to audition for it,” said Zell, who made a pair of very memorable appearances on the first episode. “I never would have thought or expected that to have happened, but I actually really, really love it. We’ve been busy filming the episodes and going on this whole crazy ride. It’s been very, very busy.” As a result of her schoolwork and her “Dancin’ on Air” commitments, the prolific songwriter has not had much opportunity to put pen to paper in the past several months. Nor has she had many chances to get the Nicole Zell Band together to

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practice. But that’s all about to change. The band — Zell is accompanied by her father, John, on bass and Austin Antonelli on drums — will be playing at various venues and festivals during the summer months, beginning with a Graduation Party on June 9 at Steel City Coffee House. All are invited to share in the musical celebration. “I’m really excited,” Zell said. “I haven’t played Steel City in forever because I’ve been so busy. It’ll be good to be back home. “I think the last time we had a band practice was two months ago. We’re going to be crunching the band practice the next few weeks. I’ve been booking gigs and it’s

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going to be really busy this summer, so it’ll be nice to go back into the music, playing out live — doing the stuff that I really love.” The show, which also features the return to the area of blues maestro Ross Cohen, will provide the band an opportunity to debut some new songs from the upcoming CD, which Zell hopes will be out during the summer. “The album is about halfway done,” she said. “If I can really buckle down in June and chain myself down in my studio and get it done, hopefully we can get it out by July. The main thing I struggle with is mastering it. I never like the way it turns out, because I’m always my own worst critic.” Zell, whose solo songs tend to have a more folk sound, writes for her band with a much more rock/pop feel. The new tunes, she added, are somewhat different in terms of their lyrics. “The newer songs haven’t lost the same vibe as the older ones,” she said. “They’re just newer … and maybe a little bit more catchy. “This fall in my writing I

Photo by CRAIG OSTROFF

Nicole Zell

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of Nicole’s got to experiimmediate ment with the future, if at edgier side, all. Right harsher relationNicole Zell Band now, the focus ship breakup & Ross Cohen will perform is on her kind of songs. at Steel City Coffee House, music — There are a 203 Bridge St., writing, perbunch of songs Phoenixville, PA 19460, Saturday, June 9, 8 p.m. forming and like that, that I Tickets: $10 in advance; getting her never had $12 at the door. name and her before. It Info: 610-933-4034, band known. opened that or www.steelcitycoffeeShe’s not avenue up. I’m house.com. giving herself writing about other subjects I don’t normal- any timetable to “make it.” She’s just going to continue ly write about.” Her passion for music and to make her music, try to reach as many people as she her drive to succeed, howevcan and enjoy every day. er, are two things that will “I’m going to take this never change. And for Zell’s year off and try build up my father, a longtime musician, career locally and see what being able to help his daughhappens,” she said. “I’ve ter along the early steps of learned that I will never be her career path is nothing able to plan anything, short of amazing. because everything you “It’s very rewarding,” think is going to happen, John Zell said. “Even though I’m around her so much that I doesn’t. “I’m just going to go sometimes take it for granted, with the flow and be where I when I really detach and see need to be, and whatever how she deals with so much happens is going to happen. and how comfortable she is If it’s meant to be, it’ll be. onstage, it’s pretty amazing. My hope is to continue my “I know she’s been workmusic and do what I’ve been ing her derriere off, and I tell doing and to just continue her if she continues to do that, good things are going to trying to bring joy to others through music.” happen.” College will not be a part

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A classy Italian rises in Huntingdon Valley By Frank D. Quattrone Ticket Editor

Dining on the patio at Arugula are (clockwise from lower left) Michelle, Brayden, Gabrielle, Sophie, Chef-owner Michael Buscio and Victoria and husband (and co-owner) Alan Vaisberg.

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n a typical Saturday night, Arugula was a-buzz with that electric hum that any restaurateur would gladly die for. Listening to the lively pulse emanating from packed tables, watching a server tableside carefully removing the bones from a delicate Dover sole, smelling the tangy aromas wafting from delectable Italian dishes drifting from his open kitchen to his eager guests, Executive Chef/co-owner Michael Buscio was beside himself. The tall, handsome thirtysomething chef, wearing a smile as broad as the Mediterranean, told us, “I’m having a ball! I knew from the time I was a boy that I had to be in the restaurant business, because when I talk about food, I make people hungry. Besides, where else can you hold a knife in your hand all day without breaking the law?” Then he let out a great laugh that induced guests all around us to smile in kind. If ever a man was made for this business, it’s Michael Buscio. He’s one of those fortunate souls gifted with a heightened sense of taste. He recalls growing up in South Philadelphia, the youngest of five siblings, happily relegated to the kitchen with his mother and grandmother, wonderful cooks both, who passed on their love for great home cooking to the precocious 5-year-old who’s never had a day of culinary training in his life. With Buscio, it’s that rare combination of genetics, creativity and passion for good food that led him to Frankie’s Seafood Restaurant, where at

Enjoying their dinner at Arugula — on their plates are a Pasta Combination special of Potato Gnocchi with pesto (top), Rigatoni Pacchera (right) and Penne Arugula (left) — are the Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund’s 2012 Wine in Winter silent auction co-winners Chuck and Elena Giannasio.

would have customers raving the age of 14, he decided to about and returning to it plunge into the business. He again and again. Open only a did a little bit of everything couple of months after eight and learned from the ground months of intensive renovaup, steadily working his way tions (it had up the cooking once been the ladder from home of Ben & various Arugula Ristorante Irv’s, Cherry’s Philadelphia 1051 County Line Road Essence House restaurants to Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 and the 10 years at 215-355-5577 Olympia Radicchio Café www.ristorantearugula.com Diner), Arugula in Old City. HOURS: Lunch: has already sucAlready a Monday - Saturday, ceeded in seasoned chef 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Dinner: achieving their before he Monday - Saturday, aspirations. turned 30, 3 p.m. to closing; Offering Buscio just had Sunday, 4:30 p.m. - closing. some of the to put his Reservations preferred best Italian fare stamp on his own restaurant. weekends; walk-ins welcome. from Tuscany All major credit cards. BYOB. and provinces This is how Facilities for handicapped. south, Arugula Arugula came Available for catering sources only to be. & private parties, the freshest and The lovely Sundays, noon - 4 p.m. Dinner entrées: $12 - $29. finest local latter-day tratingredients, toria in including organic produce, Huntingdon Valley is the free-range chicken and grassbrainchild of Buscio and his fed beef and veal. partner and co-owner Alan The antipasti, or appetizVaisberg, a restaurateur comers, are highlighted by the mitted to opening a casual, likes of Calamari Griglia affordable restaurant that

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($15), calamari grilled and served over baby arugula with black olives, capers and fresh chopped tomatoes, dressed with fresh lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil; Insalta di Mare ($13), a generous bowl of mussels, clams and shrimp steamed and served at room temperature, also dressed with fresh lemon juice and olive oil; and Buffala e Funghi ($12), fresh warm buffalo mozzarella cheese, served with warm portobello mushrooms and fresh chopped tomatoes, dressed with balsamic vinegar; and specials such as Polpo, or tender medallions of octopus, served over baby arugula. Chef Buscio shared a rare family secret, revealing that he boils the octopus in bay leaves and cork, which somehow tenderizes a dish that many chefs struggle to make more tender than rubber. Even the insalate, or salads, transcend the norm. In case you hadn’t noticed, the Continued on page 7

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Arugula a great new dining destination chef is partial to arugula. “I love lettuce,” he says, “but especially arugula, which is a little bitter, like spinach.” The restaurant’s signature salad is Rucola ($12), an arugula salad laden with pine nuts, hearts of palm and warm goat cheese, dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. Also available are Parmigiano ($12), a Belgian endive salad with radicchio and arugula, tossed with sundried tomatoes and a red wine dressing, topped with shaved Parmigiano; and specials like L.A. Mixed Greens, with tomatoes and steamed and blanched beans, dressed with a red pepper champagne dressing and topped with jumbo lump crab meat. Pasta lovers will enjoy such homemade dishes as Gnocchi Terra ($15), potato gnocchi served in a spicy tomato sauce with porcini mushrooms; Linguine Pescatore ($20), linguine pasta served with mussels, clams and calamari in either a white wine or spicy tomato sauce; and Penne Arugula ($22), penne pasta mixed with fresh arugula, fresh chopped tomatoes and jumbo lump crab meat in a white wine, oil and garlic sauce. Equally enticing are the entrées, which range from Pollo Carciofi ($17), chicken breast sautéed in a lemon white wine sauce and topped with artichokes and fresh parsley, and Salmone alla Griglia ($21), grilled salmon topped with basil, asparagus and fresh chopped tomatoes, dressed with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar; to Vitello Carlito ($19), veal medallions stuffed with Parma prosciutto and provolone and served with white mushrooms and peas in a light tomato sauce with a touch of cream, and Risotto

Photos for Ticket by EVE M. QUATTRONE

Continued from page 6

Above is a recurrent special — Polpo, or octopus over a bed of baby arugula. Above right, server Alfonso Cosentino begins serving a chocolate frosted cake to a table of 10 celebrating a birthday.

Funghi ($22), porcini mushroom risotto served with smoked mozzarella and veal sausage (which the chef says to allow 25 minutes to prepare). And there are always the wonderful seafood dishes filleted tableside with utmost care, like Dover sole and bronzino, a Mediterranean white sea bass, dressed simply, as is the chef’s style, with lemon juice, olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Also available are pizzas — like Foccacia Fresco ($16), topped with American broccoli, white mushrooms, onions, roasted red peppers and mozzarella — prepared in the restaurant’s Old World wood-burning brick oven, and, to top off your meal, desserts like Caramel Apple Continued on page 15

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Torking up for Shoe Suede Blues By Ken Kolasinski Correspondent

“In the Superfresh” 1301 Skippack Pike, Center Square, PA 19422

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n some ways, Peter Tork’s music journey is just beginning. That might seem like an odd statement considering that, for the past 46 years, Tork has been an integral part of the seemingly never-ending story of the Monkees. During that time, he’s experienced just about everything the music world could possibly throw at the iconic band. But it’s only in the nottoo-distant past that Tork’s managed to explore something he’d never done before — the blues. Despite the success he’d experienced as a musician, both on and off the stage, playing the blues didn’t exactly come easily. “To be quite honest, I didn’t have the confidence,” said Tork. “I didn’t think I had the technical skill. I was afraid.” It was a growing fascination with the musical style and an interest in logging the necessary miles on the guitar to bring the blues to the stage that served as a catalyst for Tork to form Shoe Suede Blues in the late 1990s. While that “other band” has periodically occupied his time, Tork hasn’t stopped exploring his newfound musical outlet with Shoe Suede Blues, who will make a June 8 stop at the Sellersville Theater. The four-piece band with Tork — Arnold Jacks, Joe

Peter Tork (second from left) and Shoe Suede Blues will perform at Sellersville Theater 1894 on Friday, June 8.

peutic and healing and there Boyle and Sturgis Cunningham — delivers a set is a real sense of community. “It reminds us in our of blues originals, classics buried depths, no matter how and some nuggets from the Monkees’ catalog; the reinter- bad things are, there is hope.” Despite the powerful preted version of “For Pete’s assessment, he’s quick to Sake” is a real treat. point out that playing the For the 70-year-old Tork, blues is one thing, playing the his love of the blues tranblues with “feeling” is an scends that of simply a musientirely different matter. cal style he enjoys playing. “I could show just a Once he starts talking about scorching guitar the blues, player, someone there’s an like we’ve got in excitement Shoe Suede and energy in Blues,” said his voice that Tork. “But I belies his age. think you have “The blues to ask yourself, is not like ‘Is this the real most popular Peter Tork & thing?’ Is that music,” Tork Show Suede Blues feeling there? exuberantly will perform at Sellersville Theater 1894, “As a band explained. “I Main St. & Temple Ave., we kind of ask, don’t know Sellersville, PA 18960, are we bringing how subjecFriday, June 8, 8 p.m. something to tive this is, but Tickets: $29.50 that world inhabthere is a genInfo: 215-257-5808 ited by the likes eral trend — or www.st94.com. of Muddy especially in dance music — to just pound, Waters and Lightning Hopkins and Albert King? pound, pound you with bass. That’s something the audiIt’s like you can’t think, you can’t feel. It really is a numb- ence really has to decide for themselves. I can’t say anying phenomenon. thing. “But the blues communi“OK, OK, I like to think cates in a different way. It we don’t do too bad,” he tells what you’re going joked. through, somebody has been The mention of communithrough it before. You’re not alone in that pain. It’s thera-

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Continued on page 13

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Acommunity’s work of art

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they please. The selection process began months ago. Those who were interested were asked to send in audition tapes to a committee in charge of ensuring quality. What the committee produced was a catalog of 10 performers as of now, each with a unique talent to

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showcase. Complete with plenty of food and enticing raffles to keep attendees occupied, Arts in the Park does it all. A quality, green-focused event that is both fun and meaningful should never be overlooked. However, Gina Craigo does not see this as

Wildwood Crest, NJ By Matthew Reilly Ticket Intern

up for grabs for the expected mob of happy buyers. An estimated 50 artisans ired of the same old will be present selling their thing? Want to go craftwork. somewhere entertainUnlike a simple flea ing and stirring that will market, this festival features arouse the senses like never activities that the whole before? Then you can join family can enjoy all day hundreds of others on June long. 3 at the 17th annual Arts in For kids, Arts in the the Park Juried Craft Show Park offers opportunities for and Festival in Elkins Park. children to try their hand at Every year, the Arts in pressed flower prints and the Park event brings in collaborative painting. countless new faces, while Meanwhile, there will also bringing back their faithful be old-time favorites like attendees — for good reascavenger hunts, moon son too. Arts in the Park bounces, face painting and was established to help wagon rides. fundraise and bring awareAs operations manager ness to native plant restoraof six years, Gina Craigo tion at High says that the School Park, arts and crafts an environmaterials for Arts in the Park takes place mental educakids stem from at High School Park, tional and recycled prod7910 Montgomery Ave., restoration site ucts and Elkins Park, Pa 19027 comprised of always end up Sunday, June 3, various “very colorful 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. ecosystems set Adult suggested donation: $5. and cute.” Info: 215-782-8082 or in the location Craigo pointed www.highschoolpark.org. of the former out that the Cheltenham wagon ride is High School. always popular “for the Arts in the Park accomkids because it takes them plishes its goal year after through the meadow and all year by exhibiting exceparound the area.” For kids, tional artwork for sale. the name of the game is Jewelry, pottery, home excitement, and Arts in the décor, glass, photography Park seems poised to pull it and a plethora of other off as always. handcrafted items will be The fun isn’t just for

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At Arts in the Park on Sunday, June 3, there will be plenty of activities for the whole family, plus live entertainment and food.

kids, though, as adults will most certainly find merit in the “Ask the Expert” sessions of the day. The expert in this scenario is George Petropoulis, a gardening authority who will be around to assist consumers with their various herb and vegetable purchases. Another crowd-pleaser is the daylong live entertainment. There is something there for every music enthusiast to enjoy, as pop, blues, rock, folk and a cappella groups will all be performing. Mark Kaplan, a man who has worked with Arts in the Park for about 12 years, is currently its music coordinator. In his words, the concerts are without a doubt one of the “highlights of the event” and are always “well received from the audience.” “We’re really excited this year; we try to provide a showcase for local performers and this year the variety we have is very impressive,” Mark said. Granted, not anyone can go up onstage and sing as

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the event's primary purpose. With a sense of nostalgia, Craigo says, “It all came together and started with the community, and we still have that support today. We continue to do what we do because of the community, so really this event is for them.”

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By Alexa Kelly Ticket Intern t seems we have become uncomfortable with silence. We walk through the world, always cell phone in hand. Always iPods turned up and conversation tuned out. The never-ending buzz of radio pundits, celebrity gossip and other mindless media deadens the senses and hinders thought. Relaxed, meditative contemplation cannot be had amid this electronic overload. However, there still exist some havens of silence. Chestnut Hill’s Morris Arboretum is a secluded, 92acre retreat from the ordinary. The display garden of trees, flowers, ponds and peace now hosts two new exhibits for summer visitors — the ever-popular Garden Railway and “Take a Seat! Adirondack Chairs Re-Interpreted,” an artistic endeavor as atypical as the arboretum itself. In collaboration with the Woodmere Art Museum, the Morris

Arboretum commissioned nearly three-dozen artists to reinvent a summertime classic — the Adirondack chair, to be displayed from May 31 through Labor Day. Yet this is no everyday art show — this is art you can sit in. All along the paved garden pathways are reimagined, redecorated Adirondack chairs. From Donna Usher’s coolly colored and brightly bespeckled “Meditation Chairs” to Jason Lubar’s graceful yet rugged homage to the serenity of the Wissahickon creek “Repose in the Wissahickon,” the bevy of talent and vision is endless. Director of Marketing Susan Crane explained in a recent interview that the “variety of artists and their disciplines are very broad,” resulting in this “creative and wonderful” array of bold, functional artwork. Children’s book illustrators, painters, woodworkers, sculptors and fabric designers alike unleash their talents onto chairs meant for the relaxed appreciation of the arboretum’s natural beauty. Each of the 62 Adirondack chairs

If You Go Morris Arboretum,

100 E. Northwestern Ave., Chestnut Hill, PA 19118, presents “Take a Seat! Adirondack Chairs Re-Interpreted,” May 31 - Sept. 3, and the Garden Railway, through Sept. 3. Free with admission. Info: 215-247-5777 or www.business-services. upenn.edu/arboretum/index. shtml.

At left, Murrie Gayman’s “Tropical AdironDeco” received first place in Morris Arboretum and Woodmere Art Museum’s Adirondack Chair competition. Above left, c close-up of one of the arms of second-place winner Ilyssa Shapiro’s “Urban Arbor.” Above, Tim Lewis’ “Symbio” expands on the theme of peaceful togetherness. Kids really love watching Garden Railway trains — like Tommy the Tank Engine — chugging by.

(eight more of which can be found at the Woodmere) have been methodically arranged amid the arboretum’s green space, to be discovered and admired as naturally as the garden’s many flowers. Crane hopes the chairs will be used by guests to “take a break from the hectic pace of life and observe nature.” She describes the Adirondack chair itself as the “embodiment of summer,” its image forever bound to those of sunlight, freshly cut grass, lemonade and long naps. That the arboretum’s pieces are shown in pairs is also no coincidence, as Crane finds this setup “indicative of enjoying each other and nature at the same time.” Tim Lewis’ “Symbio,” a personal favorite of Crane, expounds on the theme of peaceful togetherness, with the two chairs bolted together, facing inwards in wave-like partnership. From the eclectic selection of inspired artwork, three artists were honored for their exceptional creations. Murrie Gayman, an artist who has worked with mediums ranging from fabrics to antique barn wood, received first place for his “Tropical AdironDeco.” Craftily carved and vibrantly

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decorated, the chairs exude tropical bliss with their calming pastels and wild patterns. Second place-finisher Ilyssa Shapiro is a South Philadelphiabased designer with a mission. Her work “Urban Arbor” reads, “If a chair were placed with every street tree in Philadelphia, our city would be radically different,” encouraging distracted urbanites to appreciate the city’s more natural additions. In an equally conceptually driven though less serious vein, third-place submission “Lawn Chairs,” by educator and textile artist Patricia Siembora, uses a vinyl wrap decal and Astroturf pillows to blend seamlessly with the tone and texture of the garden. Inspired by the Adirondack chair’s evocation of soothing summer afternoons, event coordinator Michelle Coners created this event. Crane explains that the arboretum then reached out to the Woodmere Art Museum to help coordinate the exhibit, as a fellow “anchor institution” for culture and relaxation in Chestnut Hill. A committee of representatives from both the museum and the arboretum then selected artist applicants based on the quality and style of their past bodies of work.

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Each designer was given “free artistic rein” to re-interpret a minimum of two Adirondack chairs for guests to enjoy all summer long. Along with the Adirondack chair exhibit, summer visits will feature a beloved arboretum staple with a whimsical twist. For more than 15 years, the Garden Railway has enchanted visitors. With fresh themes each summer, the railway’s quarter-mile track of model trains and miniature buildings delights guests of all ages. Around each winding turn and intricate tunnel, guests will discover vignettes from their favorite storybook classics. Humpty Dumpty’s infamous wall, Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater’s bulbous homestead, and Little Red Riding Hood’s grandmother’s cottage are among the many adornments of the picturesque outdoor railway. Composed of natural materials, the tiny fixtures are truly remarkable in their elaborate detail and magical allure. Identifying favorite settings from familiar fairytales, children will connect with both literature and nature in unexpected ways. Continued on page 14

Photos courtesy of Morris Arboretum

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A ‘Lucky Stiff’ turns up at Centre Theater By Walter Ault Correspondent he Centre Theater of the Montgomery County Cultural Center has been the site of countless musicals since its opening in 1996. However, “Lucky Stiff” none of takes the stage of Centre them Theater, 208 DeKalb St., were as Norristown, PA 19401, offbeat as June 1 - 24. the cenInfo: 610-279-1013 or www.artscc.org. ter’s latest production, a musical farce called “Lucky Stiff.” You want unusual? One of the central roles is that of a dead man — a dead man who goes on a trip to Europe to visit his favorite sites while being carted around in a wheelchair.

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Cast members rehearsing “Lucky Stiff” at the Centre Theater.

“Lots of hysterical things happen,” cultural center director Fran Doyle said. “It is very clever with very unusual themes, lots of comedy and fine music.” “Lucky Stiff,” which will run from June 1 to June 24, was the first collaboration of Lynn Ahrens (book and lyrics) and Stephen Flaherty (music). It premiered off-Broadway in 1988, winning the Richard Rodgers Award. It was based on a 1993 novel “The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo” by Michael Butterworth. The local production is being directed by West Norriton resident Marusia Griffin Lynn, who enthusiastically talked about the play in an interview before a recent rehearsal. “I’m laughing all the time,” Griffin Lynn said. “The stuff in this musical is over the top. The dialogue is very clever and kind of zany. And if you haven’t already read the play, you are constantly being surprised. “The writers of this show were ingenious,” Griffin Lynn said. “There are complex plots and plot twists, but the play flows effortlessly. The great writing keeps it moving.” Both Doyle and Griffin Lynn stated that this show has great music to go along with the many laughs. “The music is different, and it is appealing,” Griffin Lynn said. “It is contemporary music theater, with a great blend of music, laughs and memorable happenings.” Steve Tornetta has the lead role of Harry Witherspoon, a shy English shoe salesman who lives a rather mundane life and wistfully dreams of a better one. He suddenly finds adventure and excitement with the arrival of a stunning telegram.

The telegram informs Harry that he has inherited $6 million from his deceased uncle, Anthony, a casino manager in Atlantic City whom Harry has never met and who was killed by his lover. However, there is a truly strange condition attached to the inheritance. Harry must take his dead uncle on a trip to Monte Carlo. If Harry doesn’t do as instructed, the money will go to his uncle’s favorite charity — the Universal Dog Home of Brooklyn. Harry reluctantly accepts the condition and travels to Monte Carlo with his uncle and a heart-shaped box. As it turns out, Harry’s good fortune becomes widely known, through a newspaper article about the inheritance. That story, not surprisingly, draws out an assortment of untrustworthy individuals who make Harry’s life very difficult indeed. They’ll do anything to get their hands on the $6 million and their crazy schemes to accomplish that feat provide many obstacles to Harry’s fulfilling his mission. Nevertheless, the antics of these unsavory characters also provide the show with many of its laughs. Along with the colorful cast of characters, another aspect of the production that makes it so enjoyable is the never-ending surprises. “Lucky Stiff” has more plot twists than an Agatha Christie murder mystery, thanks to that colorful cast of characters. Included in this group is Rita, played by Krissy Johnson, a legally blind woman who confesses to her brother, Vinnie, that she accidentally killed her lover, Tony, and stole $6 million in diamonds from her casino-owning husband. Furthermore, she admits she blamed the theft on her

brother; consequently, there is quite possibly a hit out on him. So Rita and her brother anxiously embark for Monte Carlo to find Harry and retrieve the diamonds. Another strange character is Annabel Glick (Katie Romano), a representative of the Universal Dog Home of Brooklyn, who follows Harry everywhere during his journey, hoping that he slips up, which would result in the home receiving the money. There are also the antics of tour guide Luigi Gaudi and sexy entertainer Dominique du Monaco adding to the show’s drama. The eccentricities of these characters are brilliantly interwoven into the show, leading to one misadventure after another and many unexpected turns. Nobody, Harry ultimately finds out, is who they say they are or appear to be — even, shockingly, his dead uncle. “This is one of the funniest musicals I ever directed,” Griffin Lynn said. A 1996 graduate of Kennedy-Kenrick High School and former performing arts teacher at the school, she added that the only problem in putting the play together was working with a relatively small cast of 11 people. “It is a small cast and it was a challenge getting five or six of those cast members to get in and out of different roles. But they are talented people and we’ll pull it off. “I think this play is very entertaining, and I’m sure that people will enjoy it,” she said. “The dialogue is great — it is funny and fast moving, with terrific music. I think seeing this will be a good night out for anybody.”

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‘Dancing in His Underwear’ and lovin’ every minute! In a photo from Mike Morsch’s book, local music legend John Oates (left) sits with Sellersville Theater 1894 co-owner William Quigley (right). The woman between them is unidentified.

Continued from page 4

Ventures when the camera pans in on Jack Lord atop a high-rise at the opening of the show? Morsch takes us vicariously to Hawaii where he was once inside that same hotel as a teen. Wanting desperately to stand where Lord actually stood didn’t come to pass, and we feel the pain of the 19-year-old who wanted so much to step out onto that balcony. However, the bright spot in the story is that he was able to meet Harrington, who played Detective Ben Kukua from 1972 to 1975. One person who’s still on his “to meet” list is Elton

John. The only question he asks himself is, “What could I possibly ask this person?” Of course, he admits that his quirky humor was once fed by the greats in the comedy world like George Carlin and the Three Stooges. “I would have loved to have interviewed them,” said Morsch. At the core of it all, you’ll come to feel Morsch’s teenage angst as you pore over the pages of his life and, along with relating to the insights he’s gleaned and empathizing with his faux pas, you’ll enjoy watching him grow into a successful newspaper executive. Of course, you’ll meet his

wife, whom he lovingly refers to as “The Blonde Accountant.” You’ll also see pictures of the performers who helped shape his life, like Tommy Chong, John Oates, Mickey Dolenz, Paul Stanley, Brian Wilson, Chazz Palminteri and several others. Morsch will be at the Ambler Theater on Tuesday evening, June 12, where he’ll be presenting excerpts from his book along with a slide show. Also on the bill is local singer-songwriter of Americana roots music Dan May, who will be performing a 10-song set. Be prepared for a nostalgia-infused evening.

Peter Tork revs up the blues Continued from page 8

ty, healing and feeling are definitely fitting and take on added meaning for Monkees fans and Tork as well for the Sellersville show. It will be Tork’s first since the death of Davy Jones, who passed away on Feb. 29.

“I haven’t really approached the issue of Davy’s passing and what to do,” said Tork. The only thing he is certain of as far as a nod to his old friend goes is the inclusion of some Monkees’ classics like “Daydream

Believer” done true to form and a couple reinvented by Shoe Suede Blues. Despite Jones’ passing, the Monkees’ story might not be over just yet for Tork. “We went back out as a trio. Hey, there’s still three of us left.”

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GLENSIDE (PHILA)

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Sun jun 24 • 7:30 pm

aug 15 • 7:30pm

Sep 18 • 7:30pm

fri Sep 28 • 8pm Tickets & info: www.KeswickTheatre.com • 215-572-7650 • 800-745-3000 Convenient to Septa rail & bus • FREE Parking

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Curing your summertime blues at Morris Arboretum

Photos courtesy of Morris Arboretum

Above left is Patricia Siembora’s third-place Adirondack chair submission: “Lawn Chairs.” Above is “Humpty Dumpty” sitting on his infamous wall in this summer’s Garden Railway “Storytime” theme, while at right is the Garden Railway’s re-creation of “Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater.”

Continued from page 11 Crane says, “Children love the exhibit. The look on their faces when the trains disappear inside the tunnel and magically appear on the other side is priceless,” and believes this year’s theme will help parents feel like they are “reliving their own childhoods.” In partnership with local libraries, the arboretum sponsors a reading program for children. The increasing popularity of the program inspired arboretum officials to incorporate a storytime motif into the Garden Railway.

Interspersed among storybook whimsy are miniature replicas of historic sites in Philadelphia. An unchanging element of the Garden Railway, the realistic miniatures will now include two new smaller-than-life additions. New replicas depict the Philadelphia Zoo and the Morris Arboretum’s own glass fernery, the only remaining structure of its kind in North America. Both the Garden Railway and the Adirondack chair art show will be on display at the Morris Arboretum until Sept. 3, Labor Day, and are includ-

ed free with regular admission. The grand opening of the Adirondack exhibit will occur on May 31 from 4 to 8 p.m. at both the arboretum and the Woodmere Art Museum. It is difficult to imagine a haven for silence and tranquility in a world so inundated by nonstop noise. But if you can take a seat in one of the arboretum’s new artworks, pay a visit to Hansel and Gretel, and learn to relax and embrace the natural wonders the Morris Arboretum has to offer, your summer months will be silently sweet.

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A sweet Arugula in Huntingdon Valley fortably, or the attractive resort-like patio, where guests are protected from the sun by colorful wide umbrellas. By all standards, it’s clear that partners Michael Buscio and Alan Vaisberg are in it for the long haul, as they have created the next great dining destination in Montgomery County.

Photos for Ticket by EVE M. QUATTRONE

Walnut Cake, served warm with a scoop of vanilla gelato. The chef even takes pride in his coffee, which is ground in-house with Arabica, Robusto and natural coffee beans in equal quantities. Every Wednesday, Arugula also offers a threecourse tasting menu, featuring a salad, an appetizer and a choice of selected entrées. And enticing specials, including Osso Buco, Combination Pasta Grill and Lobster Ravioli, abound every day of the week. Our new friends, Chuck and Elena Giannasio — who won a bid, at the Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund’s 2012 Wine in Winter fundraiser, to join me and Eve for an evening’s interviews and fine dining at a great local restaurant — said that they were impressed not only with the chef and his culinary creations but also with the service. Elena told the chef, “There’s a birthday party of 10 at the next table, and your servers are incredible. They’re bringing every dish out at the same time and making sure that no one feels left out. Your guests look so happy. Even the servers seem to be having a good time.” Chef Buscio replied, “I love coming to work each day, and so does my staff. It’s something I learned from the days I played football. You work hard together as a team for the same cause and you can’t lose. I love the energy here. We’re trying to create a fresh dining experience every time you come.” Guests enjoy their meals under graceful Tuscan chandeliers in a spacious, airy main dining room, designed ergonomically to allow diners some privacy while still feeling connected to the room and servers more than enough space to move com-

Above right, Filetted bronzino Right, Osso Buco

Executive Chef/co-owner Michael Buscio flanked by (L) server Taya Kravchenko and hostess Valerie Weinstein.

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This ‘Children’s Hour’ definitely not for children! By Mary Cantell Correspondent on’t let the innocent title fool you. While Playcrafters ’ upcoming spring production may sound innocuous, the serious drama that borders on tragedy is not a play for children. The original script, written by Lillian Hellman in 1934, takes some of its cues from an actual story set in 19th century Scotland, where two women were accused of being in a homosexual relationship at the boarding school where they taught. With a creative twist or two, Hellman delivers a serious portrayal of the power of lies and innuendo. Although the play had success running on Broadway for two years, the subject matter of Hellman’s first groundbreaking play was so controversial that it was once banned in Chicago and Boston as well as London. Years later, it became a screenplay by John Michael Hayes and starred Audrey Hepburn, Shirley

The cast of Playcrafters of Skippack rehearsing for “The Children’s Hour.”

MacLaine and James Garner. Taking a departure from her last project, where she directed Neil Simon’s lighthearted “Odd Couple,” Marianne Green’s latest directorship takes her cast into the dark world of a troubled and rebellious boarding school student (played by Nikki Johns), who has a mean streak. She is joined by her classmates, Rosalie (Cassie Van Druff), Peggy (Lauren Esser), Evelyn (Emma Russek), Catherine (Samantha Sewell), Lois (Olivia Norton) and Helen (Renee Johnson). “I’ve always been intrigued by this play,” said Green. “Not too many places do it.” The adult drama casts 13 people, seven of whom are girls aged 12 to 17. “The girls are extraordinary. They know what’s going on with the subject matter and approach the story with maturity,” she said. The play centers on two boarding school head-

shares the information with mistresses — Karen the parents of the school (Elizabeth Hennessey) and students, but not before the Martha (Heather Reese), story is twisted into a conwho have collectively coction of untruth, and pooled their efforts to turn lives begin to unravel. an old farmhouse into a girls’ boarding school “The Barn is such an where they teach with the intimate theater. The audihelp of Martha’s Aunt Lily ence will be drawn right (Lauren Rozensky in,” said Green. “Because Flanagan). of the proximity of the audience to Karen’s the actors, fiancé, Joe you get to (John Bell), “The Children’s Hour” draw into who is a docwill be performed by their emotor, is called in Playcrafters of Skippack tions.” one day to at The Barn (near Rt. 73), examine Mary 2011 Store Road , The hiswho, by preSkippack, PA 19474, toric setting May 31 - June 2, 8 - 9, tending to be of the board14 - 16, 8 p.m., & sick, is pulling ing school June 10, 3 p.m. a trick to gain has been Tickets: $15. sympathy after replicated in Info: 610-584-4005 or being punfine detail. www.playcrafters.org. ished. While in All of the the examining costumes are room, Aunt Lily has a sud- genuinely authentic to the den outburst, and her ranti- times. ng is overheard by some of The show with interthe students eavesdropping mission runs about 2 ½ just outside the door. hours. There are two Eventually, what the Friday-night talk-backs — girls overhear is spread to June 1 and June 8. the adults — namely, The ramifications of Mary’s influential grandrumors, lies and homophomother (Suzanne bia go a long way in this Pedersen), who, in turn, compelling drama.

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‘Pretty’ is in the eye of the beholder at Philadelphia Theatre Company

Photo by MARK GARVIN

that we make, how and when we decide to do something different.” To prepare for the role, Perrier read the play many times, talked to others who read it, and read the other plays in the trilogy. She’s eager to perform for audiences and display her talent and love for acting. “I enjoy telling stories,” she said. “I love getting to know and play characters, which allows me to have greater understanding of how other people in the world

Blue Bell native makes mainstage debut By Tara Lynn Johnson Correspondent

hat is pretty? What is being pretty worth? Those questions are the focus of “Reasons to Be Pretty,” now onstage at the Philadelphia Theatre Company. Four young working-class friends and lovers — Greg and Steph, Kent and Carly — become increasingly dissatisfied with their lives and each other in the comic drama. It all starts when Greg makes an offhand remark, calling his co-worker “pretty” and Steph, his girlfriend, “regular,” and Steph finds out. The ensuing drama throws Greg’s tightknit social circle into turmoil, as his best friend, Kent, and Kent’s wife, Carly, get involved in the “discussion,” and hidden truths, ugly ones, are revealed. It’s a smart, funny, edgy yet compassionate play,

Daniel Abeles (Greg) and Blue Bell’s Genevieve Perrier (Steph) starring in Philadelphia Theatre Company's production of “Reasons to Be Pretty” by Neil LaBute.

showing how the drama and through moment at the top of sometimes obsession revolvthe show that launches her ing around appearance can into growing up and getting disrupt lives. As the play goes what she wants,” Perrier said. on, the two young couples “Personality-wise, she is must “confront a sea of selfextremely hot-tempered, viodeceit and their own willinglent.” ness to change,” according to As Steph, Perrier makes the press release. But, in the her mainstage PTC debut, but end, it’s a has appeared “hopelessly locally at romantic drama Lantern Theatre about the hopeCompany, lessness of Arden Theatre romance.” Company, The play is Theatre Exile, the final and People’s installment in Light & Theatre “Reasons to Be Pretty” a trilogy, folCompany. She’s continues at Philadelphia Theatre lowing “The also a Company's Shape of Barrymore Suzanne Roberts Theatre, Things” and award winner 480 S. Broad St., “Fat Pig,” by for her portrayal Philadelphia, PA 19146, Neil LaBute. of Kyra in through June 24. In the series, “Skylight.” Tickets: $46 - $59; discounts for seniors, the playwright To Perrier, students & groups. focuses on “Reasons to Be Recommended for America’s Pretty” is chalages 17 & older. obsession with lenging, deep Info: 215-985-0420 or physical and thoughtwww.PhiladelphiaTheatre appearance. provoking. Company.org. Genevieve “The play is Perrier, who’s originally from about many things. One is Blue Bell, plays Steph, a how we get stuck, either in dynamic and emotionally roles that we take on or are charged character. put on us,” she said. “It’s also “She experiences a break- about being stuck in choices

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struggle and thrive with their own humanity.” She hopes people will enjoy the show as much as she enjoys the theater, an important art form. “Without the arts, there would be no imprint left for future generations about who we were and what we celebrated and struggled with as a culture,” she said. “There is a very palpable relationship between actors and audience, which makes the theater a unique form.” And showing people

something different from themselves or getting them to think, to feel, is paramount. She hopes the audience will be engaged at “Reasons to Be Pretty.” “They may laugh at how cruel some of the characters and situations are, or they may cry,” she said. “They may feel deeply saddened for these people who seem stuck in their lives and choices. They could be offended by the language, the jokes. It’s all OK.”

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Local music legend David Bromberg primed for Sellersville gig By Paul Lucas Correspondent he last time I spoke with David Bromberg was on the terrace of the Flourtown restaurant called Scoogi’s. It was a beautifully warm summer night in 2009. On that evening, Bromberg was all smiles, but remained quiet and stayed in the background. That night he was just a member of the band. That band was the Angel Band, the baby of Bromberg’s wife, Nancy Josephson. Bromberg has had plenty of practice there. Born in Philly, but now calling Wilmington, Del., home, Bromberg has played and recorded with a veritable Who’s Who of popular music for the past 40 years — everyone from Bob Dylan and the Eagles to Willie Nelson and Ringo Starr. And the list goes on and on. Somewhere in the midst of all that playing, Bromberg found the time to build a pretty impressive catalog of his own. On his latest CD, “Use Me,” Bromberg has taken a

rather unique approach to combining the two. “The people on the album work with me in a very unusual way,” said Bromberg. “What I did was call up these people and I asked them first to write a song for me and second to produce me doing the song. I don’t think that’s been done before and that’s why the album is called “Use Me.” So who are these people David Bromberg (above) with his quartet (right) will perform at Sellersville Theater 1894 on Saturday, June 9. that Bromberg feels so comfortable just picking up John Hiatt are old friends.” tracks. the phone and calling? (A side note: “It’s hard to go wrong “Some of the people Bromberg’s with Levon playing were old song “Sharon” drums,” says Bromberg. friends. “I’ve known Levon for was also samSome of between 30 or 40 years. I pled by the them I had not love him very much. It’s a Beastie Boys met before,” terrible loss.” for their song said Bromberg. Bromberg’s CD was one “Johnny “I had never of the last recordings that Ryall,” met the guys Helm did. which in Widespread David Bromberg “‘Use Me’ was a humappeared on Panic, but Quartet bling experience,” their album they perform a will perform Bromberg continues. “That “Paul’s at Sellersville Theater 1894, tune of mine Main St. & Temple Ave., the people I worked with Boutique.”) called Sellersville, PA 18960, Probably were willing to give me that ‘Sharon,’ so I Saturday, June 9, 8 p.m. the most much of their time and figured I’d ask Tickets: $39.50. notable person effort. To write a song for them and they Info: 215-257-5808 on the album me and produce me doing it said yes and or www.st94.com. is the late and then perform on it, gave me the great Levon Helm, who that’s an awful lot to ask. tune ‘Old Neighborhood.’ appears on two of the “And they were so genDr. John and Keb’ Mo’ and

MUSIC

If You Go

Storybook Musical Theatre

erous and so nice and perhaps the most remarkable thing about it was that they all knew how to use me. They all knew where my musical talents intersected with theirs,” says Bromberg. “If you look at the people involved, there are some very different genres of music represented, but it all hangs together. It was very flattering to me that these people would do this. I mean, I don’t care how good a friend you are, a friendship isn’t necessarily going to get them to write you a song and produce it.” Bromberg will be performing at Sellersville

Theater 1894 on Saturday, June 9. I asked him what his set list looked like for this tour. “The truth is, I have never in my life had a set list. We decide just before we hit the stage what the first tune is going to be and then it’s all up for grabs. It works well that way,” says Bromberg. “They’ll hear old things, new things, things from recordings, things not on records. They’ll hear all kinds of stuff. That’s why a lot of people will come to a number of my concerts in any given area, because they know they’ll hear something different every night.”

presents

Theater as ‘Art’ Continued from page 2

May 29 - June 3, 2012 at Mitchell Performing Arts Ctr. Huntingdon Pike & Tomlinson Rd., Huntingdon Valley, PA

Children: $11

Adults: $14

215.659.8550 www.storybookmusical.org

painting is haunting. Scene transitions are accompanied by a flowing French score, a nod to the play’s setting and author. Practical costume choices by Cathie Miglionico highlight each man’s distinctive personality and sensibility, from Marc’s economical jeans to

Serge’s fashionable ascot. A wry comedy that hits close to home in its analysis of interpersonal relationships, “Art” does not disappoint. By the end of the production, if not convinced about Serge’s painting, audiences are at least sure that the Hedgerow’s production is most certainly a work of Art.

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The Puzzlers

ANSWERS TO LAST WEEKS PUZZLE

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Take a Seat!

Adirondack Chairs Re-interpreted May 31 through Sept. 3

www.woodmereartmuseum.org

www.morrisarboretum.org

This exhibit is made possible in part by Morris Arboretum’s Madeleine K. Butcher Fine Arts Endowment and Chestnut Hill Hospital.

100 East Northwestern Avenue • Philadelphia • 215.247.5777