Frugal in Philly - We'll Pass on the Turkish Delight, Thanks

Frugal in Philly is a weekly celebration of all things Philly that are fun, frugal (costing $10 or less) or free! Stop here each week to see what Philly's got to offer for those of us who haven't quite mastered the art of becoming Independently Wealthy (although believe us, we're trying).

Featured Pick of the Week: Chronicling the Chronicles of Narnia
Phillyist knows there are all kinds of controversy brewing about the movie version of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Some people object to it ever becoming a film since Lewis was against the idea of live-action, anthropomorphic animals; some folks are upset that Disney is using church screenings in its marketing campaign; and some are debating whether its religious nature makes it an appropriate book for the state of Florida to use in its Just Read, Florida! campaign. Then there are the folks who read the book as a kid, who missed all the parables, and instead became engrossed in the fantasy and adventure, and who feel the need to open any wardrobe they come across in their travels just in case. Phillyist is decidedly in the latter group (we've even nicknamed the lion statue outside Garland of Letters on South Street "Aslan"); but no matter which group you fall into, you might be interested to know that Perry Moore, Executive Producer of the The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe will be speaking about the film at the Central Library (1901 Vine Street) at 7PM on Thursday night. FREE!

This Week's Events:

Tuesday:

Comedy Open Mic Night:
Helium Comedy Club (2031 Sansom St.) 2 hours of comedy for just $5 (+ the cost of two menu items)

Christmas With Skeletor
Super villain-turned-crooner Skeletor will perform "EEeevilllL holiday songs" at Wang Newton's "A Very Wang Christmahanukwanzakah Special!" at the Walnut Room (1709 Walnut Street, 2nd Floor). The event has a start time of 10ish, and no cover.

Wednesday:

Charlotte's Web
Technically this falls into shady "frugal" territory, as tickets range from $10 to $12, but have a heart people - we're talking about Charlotte's Web here. (Personally, Phillyist still chokes up when we hear the words "Some Pig.") This production, put on by the Philadelphia Children's Theatre is taking place at the Ethical Society of Philadelphia at 10AM on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, with a 2PM show on Saturday. The Ethical Society is located at 1906 South Rittenhouse Square. Tickets can be had here.

Thursday:
Puppet Karaoke Secret Santa Super Slam
Bring a puppet from home or make your own when you get there - just don't try and get on stage to sing yourself - at Puppet Karaoke the puppets are the stars. Lots of laughs and - apparently - this month they are offering "REAL HONEST-TO-GOODNESS PRIZES!" 9:30 PM at the M-Room (15 W. Girard). $4 cover.

Friday:

Free Friday Noon Concert:
WXPN's free and weekly lunchtime concert Downstairs at World Cafe (3025 Walnut Street). This week's show features local artists - Danielia Cotton. Show starts at Noon and is FREE. RSVP required.

Sex Dwarf: Ho Ho Ho with the Go Gos
This month's "Non Stop New Wave Dance Party" will feature music by 80s bad girl group, the Go-Gos. As always, doors open at 10PM, admission is FREE until 10:30, and then a mere $5 thereafter. The 80s dance madness happens at Fluid (614 S. 4th St) (21+)

Xmas in Philly
Sketch comedy troupe Comic Energy ("The Attitude of Philly") will be opening their season (sketch comedy has seasons?) on Friday night at Ulana's (2nd and Bainbridge) with a 20-sketch performance. Show starts at 8:30PM, and admission is $10.

Monday:

Philly Rising Open Stage:
Weekly open mic Upstairs at World Cafe Live (3025 Walnut Street). Please note that the show starts at 8:30 PM instead of 7PM this week, with sign-ups at 8PM. Free!

Movies at the Troc:
This week's feature is the 40-Year Old Virgin - which, honestly, we wouldn't be caught dead seeing in a theater. (We would, however, surreptitiously rent it or watch it on cable, because we've heard it's hi-larious.) $3 to get in (which can be applied towards concessions)... if you aren't afraid of being seen laughing at it by your fellow movie-snob friends. And you'll get to check-out DJ Town Jewelrz as well. 1003 Arch Street, 8PM (21+ only)

Photo Credit: World News