Phillyist

We're Still Thankful

Jillian Ashley Blair Ivey — 2009-11-26T09:00:26-05:00

Image by Editor Jill, who remains unreasonably proud of it.

Last year, we took Thanksgiving as an opportunity to thank all of you, our wonderful readers, for checking the site, posting comments, submitting photos, and generally being awesome. We also took it as an opportunity to show off our mad kindergarten art skills. This year, we'd like to do both of those things again.

Phillyist is on hiatus for a couple of days so the staff can step away from our computers and spend time with our loved ones. We hope you'll do the same. Barring any breaking news, we'll be radio-silent (blog-silent doesn't have a good ring to it) until Monday.

From all of us, to all of you, here's hoping for a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

Much love,
The Phillyist Staff

Seriously, Guys...Rashomon?!?!

William J. Hayes — 2009-11-25T16:30:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user RoninKengo

Who the fuck laughs at Rashomon?

This is the question rolling through my head right now thanks to a last-second work-schedule flop that, at the time, I thought was fortunate. You see, my place of business allows a flexible schedule. I take advantage of this privilege by only working four hours on Fridays. Since my employer gave us off on Friday, I moved the short day to Tuesday. But then, the company who prints the magazine I edit informed me that they would be sending out the pre-publishing review copy for arrival on Tuesday. Since an editor is, for some reason, required to be there on the day his magazine is proofed, I was forced to take my off-day Monday.

Suddenly, there I was, contemplating what I should do with my off-day. Should I just head home and sleep off the soreness that still hampered me after participating in the Philadelphia Marathon festivities? (I ran the 8K.) Go over to the Comcast building for four hours and practice my best Kubrickian psycho stare on their big video screen? Perhaps I could dirty up my clothes a little bit, sit on the corner looking crestfallen, and try to make some money for the upcoming holiday season?

No, instead, I decided to do something constructive for once. Having a chapter to write for my soon-to-be-published book, [title deleted by editor since only authors who post columns more than once per Olympiad can publish shameless plugs for their upcoming vanity projects], I decided I would trek to the closest Barnes & Noble and peck out some prose.

But then I quickly changed my mind. Since creating a masterwork is nowhere near as fun as blowing $300 recession-era dollars on shirts and pants, I stopped at Express. Once I blew an acceptable amount of money, it was time to go get some writing done. I convinced myself that this is why I was going to a bar. Yes, I figured I could get some decent work done at the Olde City establishment Fork. Unfortunately, once I got there, there were actual women there enjoying cocktails. Being that they were moderately attractive, I knew there was no way I would be able to concentrate, so I thumbed through a GQ instead.

Anyway, someplace between sipping my Dogfish Head 60 Minute and indulging in delusional fantasies regarding how these ladies would not be able to keep their hands off of me if I was not married, I remembered something I saw on Friday night: a movie poster at the Ritz at the Bourse. Apparently, Akira Kurosawa's 1950 masterpiece Rashomon was playing there for a 1-week engagement (which ends Thursday, if you are interested). Since classic art-house films rarely make appearances in the Philadelphia area, I knew then that I would have to find a way to see the movie. Being that I was now right around the corner, I realized that this was my chance. I eyed the ladies suavely, lifted the beer to my lips, spilled a decent percentage of the thing on my ill-fitting polo, and sprinted for the exit before hearing their amused laughter. I arrived at the theater just in time for a 3:20 showing.

It dawns on me that I should probably share something about Rashomon for the uninitiated. It tells the story of a confrontation that ensues when a bandit sees a man and his wife traveling through a forest in Japan. The rape and murder that takes place is retold from four perspectives, with the differences in the stories indicating the elusive nature of truth. It is tough to overestimate the effect this film would have on film history. Its non-linear structure helped create a new cinematic language, one that was hinted at by Citizen Kane nine years earlier, but was never fully embraced in great part because of Hollywood's distaste for its subject matter. It put Kurosawa on the map, opening the door to a career of future masterpieces, such as Seven Samurai, Hidden Fortress, and Ran. It featured one of the all-time classic unhinged performances by Kurosawa staple Toshiro Mifune, who is electric and totally sexy in a platonic, bromantic way as the feral bandit. Heck, it is even supposed to be the first film to use shots into the sun, although I don't really know if that can be proved. Still, the cinematography is incredible, the performances are both raw and operatic, and the story as powerful and affecting as shotgunning a bottle of absinthe.

For proof of its reputation amongst film types, see the poll by respected British film publication Sight & Sound. In 2002, this prestigious query of directors and film critics named this film the ninth best film ever made. In other words, this is seriously great filmmaking. What it is not is a comedy. But don't tell that to the dudes sitting across from me at the movie.

Why is it that, when it comes to going to the movies, you can always tell who the douchebags are going to be? Having nestled into my seat about 10 minutes early, I had plenty of time to soak in my surroundings. There was a rather serious-looking couple in the back row. A professional type in the middle area who, much like myself, looked like he cut out of work early to catch the movie. Some kids who probably enjoy Animal Collective. That was pretty much it. But then as the preview for the new Viggo Mortensen flick, The Road, played, here came two dudes walking down the aisle, chatting without a care in the world. If there is a film-going truism that can be trusted, it is that those who don't respect the previews won't respect the movie, because seeing the previews is half the reason to go to the movie. Sure enough, not five minutes after the movie began, the pair was chuckling at Kurosawa's sparse, philosophical dialogue. When Kurosawa sped up the film to accentuate the frantic reaction of the peasant (another Kurosawa regular Takeshi Shimura) who comes upon the aftermath of the murders, the clowns suppressed laughter as if they were watching an episode of Benny Hill. When the score used an abrupt note emanating from an instrument that sounded not unlike a tuba, the two knuckleheads guffawed as if Shimura had decided to let off a fart mid-take. The wife, descending into madness, cries uncontrollably. NYUK NYUK NYUK!!! Close-up of Shimura, whose lips are kind of big. HARDY-HAR!!! The two men fight to the death at the film's conclusion in an erratic, terrified fashion meant to destroy the myth of the stoic, fearless samurai. CUE THE LAUGH TRACK!!! Part of me wondered what would happen if they played Schindler's List next. Would the two buffoons mistake it for an Al Jolson-era vaudeville act?

I know how I sound here: grumpy as an old age home resident who didn't get his peach cup and out-of-date as a motherfucker. In actuality, I realize that the movie experience was ruined a long time ago. Someplace around the time when some theaters started allowing you to lift the armrests to engage in some mid-movie missionary if you so desired, behavior at the movies began to get a little hinky. Recently, it has devolved to the point where, when I went to see Passion of the Christ a few years ago, some religious zealot actually answered her phone mid-beatdown to tell her friend she was watching "the part where our savior is whipped." At this point, I pretty much expect every movie to be torture since the audience consists mostly of grown-up babies for whom a Blackberry is a pacifier stand-in and kids who can't go five seconds without updating their status on Facebook.

But seriously, Rashomon? I was in an art house at 3:20 in the middle of a workweek watching a subtitled Japanese film that was released 60 years ago. What were those guys even doing there if they weren't prepared to treat the film with the reverence it deserved? Wouldn't they have had to have seen it previously to even step in the door? Wouldn't that have desensitized them to the parts that had them chuckling like a couple of drugged-up mental patients? Did they see the movie poster out front and think Jet Li and Jackie Chan had decided to make the movie that nobody in their right mind is really waiting for them to make together? Were there other purposes? Were they betrothed men who thought the place would be empty so they chose the spot as a place to have secret extramarital gay sex, but once they realized there were other people they decided to just ruin the movie for me instead?

I wish I had answers to these questions, but I don't. So instead, I am simply making a vow I never thought I would make: I am done going to the theater to see movies. Everything will have to "wait for video." I am a person who could tell you every Best Picture Oscar winner since 1938 off the top of his head. I am a person who cried just watching the Titanic trailer. I am a person who spent his young days not going to parties and chasing women, but studying the films of men like Hitchcock, Fellini, and Godard (I chased the women, too, but they all turned me down). I tell you this not to let you know that I am intellectually superior to you in every way. The fact that I have communicated this is a fortunate byproduct of what I am really trying to say: Not going to the movies any more is a big deal for me! But I am going to do it. Because the idiots who surround me have ruined the movie-going experience.

Now I don't want to rag on all of Philadelphia here. I'm sure the two Statler-and-Waldorf impersonators who ruined Rashomon for me are present in another form in other cities. But I will say this: There is a Kurosawa Film Festival coming to the Film Forum in Greenwich Village in January. I'm rolling up there on the 15th to see the master's interpretation of Macbeth, the glorious Throne of Blood. Why do I feel like it probably won't get ruined by two schmucks with nothing better to do on a rainy day than wander into a movie theater and act like assholes?

I love this city. I hate when it looks second-rate. I wonder why it is so rare to see a classic film playing in one of our art houses. I want to know why most of the country looks at us as uneducated buffoons who can only get jazzed about something if it involves a football and a dude who enjoys killing dogs for fun. I run into these guys. I kind of understand now.

Proofreading Philly

Jillian Ashley Blair Ivey — 2009-11-25T14:30:42-05:00

Phillyist reader Leanne caught this error at Trader Joe's a few weeks ago, and observed: "Looks like the spell checker went home early for the holiday!" We'd quote Scrooge's policies on holiday leave here, Leanne, but it's the wrong holiday.

Proofreading Philly tries to capture typos, wordos, and all other kinds of grammatical mistakes that we see around the city. But we need your help! Email photos to us from your computer or your phone, and show the city that you care about good grammar.

I Have a Baby and Ten Dollars... Now What?

amym — 2009-11-25T14:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user winstonandmichelle

I've gone out of my way to try to find some really great things for you, your kids, and all their annoying cousins in from out of town this week. Lots of outside stuff, lots of places for them to run around and burn off the sugar from that Cool Whip coated pumpkin pie.

If your three-year-old is anything like my niece, Mara, she (or he) is obsessed (to an unsettling degree) with Madagascar 2. Mara makes me play "bad kitty" over and over again, which involves me stealing things and then her smacking me on the head. It had begun to take its toll. But because I love her, I'm featuring Hiway Theatre's screening of this "classic" movie as part of its new Children's Matinee Series. With two showings, one at 11:30 (adjusted for kids with sensory issues) and another at 1:30, give your kids a treat and blow the five bucks to take them to see this child pleaser. Parents are free with paid admission for a child so the excuses are running thin. Can't stand sitting through this one again? Visit the website for upcoming shows you're willing to maybe give another chance.

One awesome thing about winter? Besides the garbage trucks/snow plows that throw dirty snow all over your car? Ice skating. The RiverRink opens for its 16th annual season of skating in a very big way. With live performances from the Give and Take Jugglers, the Enchantment Theatre Company and magician/illusionist Joe Holiday, along with kids' magic and juggling workshops, make and take crafts, face painting, and free photo keepsakes, RiverRink isn't fooling around. All ages are welcome when the doors opening at noon. While admission runs between $7-8 bucks, all the cool extras are free. Visit the website for skate rental fees and information.

In the same vein, starting November 26th, Longwood Gardens is hosting champion ice skaters (including Kim Navarro and Brent Bommentre) as they perform 20-minute skating vignettes as part of their always-amazing holiday display. Longwood is highly encouraging that you arrive early as the "seating" isn't really seating—it's standing around the rink. For a complete performance schedule or to purchase tickets ($4-5 bucks) in advance, visit the gardens online. It is also important to note that these performances will continue all the way into January, so if you can't make it this weekend don't sweat it.

So maybe your family members don't like to lay around, letting the turkey grease congeal in their veins. If you are a member of one of these freak packs, the Thanksgiving Warwick History Hike might be up you ally. Participants will be meeting on the 28th at two o'clock at Pavilion 2, so reserve your space in this opportunity to explore the Iron Heritage Loop. Advance registration is required, and run you three bucks a head; and you can either download the registration forms here or pick them at the Chester County Parks and Recreation Department Office. This is a long trek (the hike lasts, roughly, an hour and half) and isn't recommended for children under 8.

It's a Winter Wonderland at Headhouse Square on the 29th. With a tree lighting, Santa's arrival (on the oh-so-traditional North Pole-friendly fire truck), a balloon artist, and complimentary hot chocolate, snacks, face painting and—wait for it—glitter tattoos, the festivities begin at 5 p.m. There will also be Victorian carolers, carriage rides, and all other kinds of assorted holiday fun times. (And with that, so ends my Christmas protest. It's official, we are giving holiday tips. May the flood gates open.)

The LEGO Store in King of Prussia Mall is hosting a mini model build session beginning this Tuesday, December 1st. Beginning at 5 p.m. kids will learn how to create a mini model and then get to take them home for free. This marks the beginning of a monthly build at the store, so keep in mind that model themes will be changing. There is a one project per child rule in effect and if you have any questions you can call the store at 610-337-3203.

Our last tip for the week is the Long Night Moon Hike at the Wissahickon Environmental Center on December 1st. Meeting up at 5 p.m. at the fire ring behind the Tree House, families are encouraged to bring hotdogs, or veggie dogs, or whatever you can cook over a fire on a stick. Once everyone's eaten, the hike will begin as a guide helps your family hunt for animal signs, listen for nighttime noises, and just enjoy what happens to forest once the sun goes down. All ages are welcome, there is no fee for the hike, and expect the experience to run for about a hour and half from the end of dinner.

So that's it for me this week. Have a great turkey day and an even better delicious stuffing after sandwich day. Happy Thanksgiving! And remember, if you have something you think belongs in this column, feel free to email me at amym@phillyist.com.

Help a mother out.

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Photoist

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-25T13:30:52-05:00

Click here to see full version!

Title: The Great Profile
Photographer: moocatmoocat
Location: Philadelphia Zoo
Camera: Sony DSLR-A700

Like to see your photo here? Submit it!

Bah, Humbug! This Week in Philadelphia Theatre

amy — 2009-11-25T13:00:00-05:00

Image via Flickr user perpetual plum

And that quote obviously comes from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, which practically every theater in this town is doing a production of in the upcoming weeks. Luckily for those of who just cannot bear to sit through that story yet again, there's plenty more going on:

Opening

Harold and the Purple Crayon - Based on the book. December 2-January 3. Tickets

The Eight: Reindeer Monologues - Perhaps the Reindeer need to unionize. December 2-22. Tickets

The Homecoming - A heartwarming one, not the Pinter one. Ticket Info

Honk! - "The Ugly Duckling" retold. December 3-20. Tickets

Little Shop of Horrors - Better keep an eye on your plants. November 28-December 20. Tickets

Peter Pan - He'll never grow up. December 2-January 24. Tickets

The Santaland Diaries - Elf + Booze = ? December 3-20. Tickets

Scapin - Moliere! Bill Irwin! Puppets! December 3-January 3. Tickets

This Is the Week That Is - But it lasts a month. December 3-January 3. Tickets

When You Comin' Back, Red Ryder? - If you have to ask... December 4-January 11. Tickets

Winnie the Pooh's Holiday Tail - Do you think they cast this family? November 28-December 26. Tickets

More listings after the jump...

Continuing

Brilliant Traces - are better than dull ones. November 20-December 5. Tickets

The :nv:s:ble Play - You can't see it. November 21-December 13. Tickets

The Matchmaker - Find me a find. . . November 27-December 13. Tickets
Irving Berlin's White Christmas - Not to be confused with anyone else's White Christmas. November 24- December 6. Tickets

The Wizard of Oz - Follow the Yellow Brick Road. November 24- January 10. Tickets

Angels in America: A Gay Fantasia on National Themes in Two Parts - A chance to see both! Through November 28. Tickets

The Life of John Henry - He died with a hammer in his hand. Through November 29. Tickets

The Light in the Piazza - Burns bright. Through December 13. Tickets

A Body of Water - Like the Schuylkill. Through November 28. Tickets available at the door.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat -There can only be one! through December 22. Tickets

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - Oh, wait. There are two. Through December 13. Tickets

Little Shop of Horrors - Better keep an eye on your plants. Through December 20. Tickets

Oliver! - Can he have some more? Through January 10. Tickets
On Golden Pond- Things are shiny? Through December 13. Tickets

Rabbit Hole - Don't fall down it. Through December 20. Tickets

Red, White, and Tuna - Okay, that doesn't even make sense. Through January 3. Tickets

Tony and Tina's Wedding - This is still running??? Open-ended run. Tickets

ComedySportz - Its name says it all. Open-ended run. Tickets

The N Crowd - Philly style improv. Open-ended run. Tickets

Special Christmas Carol Section:

Because this is apparently the only holiday themed story ever. . .

A Christmas Carol, A Modern Adaptation, through December 12 (Chapel Street Players, Newark DE). Tickets

A Christmas Carol, through December 5 (Bridge Players Theatre Co, Burlington, NJ). For tickets call 856-303-7620.

A Christmas Carol, December 5-19 (Walnut Street Theatre). Tickets

A Christmas Carol, December 1-27 (Hedgerow Theatre). Tickets

A Christmas Carol in repertory with The Christmas Carol Conspiracy, Scrooge's Revenge, December 4-20 (Actors' Net of Bucks County). Tickets

Ebenezer, December 5-26 (Media Theatre). Tickets

Tiny Tim's Christmas, December 5-26 (Hedgerow Theatre). Tickets

Putting on a show? Send us an email or leave a note in the comments!

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Parking

amy — 2009-11-25T11:30:00-05:00

Photo by author

I have a new favorite park. Well, a new favorite park that I probably will not get to visit all that often because it's a bit far from where I live and I don't have much business in its neighborhood. I'm talking about Coxe Park, on Cherry Street and Beechwood Street (which interestingly enough, Google maps is unable to find. It's between 21st and 22nd streets.)

Coxe Park is super small and, like a few other parks gave me the feeling that I wasn't supposed to be there. It abuts a row home and for a second, I thought I was in someone's very carefully maintained side yard. The fact that no one else was there, even though the day was sunny and warm, didn't help the feeling. I settled onto a bench and started reading—and no one yelled at me to get out, so there's that.

It seems that the park was built in 1974 with help from the Logan Square Neighborhood Association and named for Daniel Michaux Coxe, a "friend and good neighbor." The Coxe family had a long history in Philadelphia, dating back to the 1600s. I couldn't really find much about them, or at least anything that seemed like it would interest anyone, so if anyone has any info, please share in the comments.

Coxe Park looks very much like it was built in the '70s, meaning it is small and consists of brick pathways and planters. Its few benches are diminutive in size and painted light blue. The playground boasts a very retro looking horsey seesaw, a candy cane striped twisty slide and yet another concrete dolphin statue, identical to—but in better shape than—the one in Weinberg Park. In the way of public art, there's a sculpture of Ben Franklin holding a kite, aptly titled Benjamin Franklin and His Kite, by Agnes Yarnell.

The park is a mere block or two away from the Schuylkill River Trail, so next time you're walking or biking on the trail, it would be totally worth your time to take a detour and visit Coxe Park, especially if you are a fan of old-style playgrounds.

Upcoming Events in Parks:

Get Involved:

Dickinson Square Park (map) Clean-Up – Saturday, 9 a.m.

Farmer's Markets:

Fitler Square (map) – Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Clark Park (map) – Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Rittenhouse Square – Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

If you know of anything exciting happening in your local park in the near future, please e-mail amy@phillyist.com!

PAWS Dog of the Week

Ross Currie — 2009-11-25T11:00:00-05:00

PAWS is in constant need of support, both personal and financial. Click through for information on volunteering, fostering, or making a donation. If you have specific questions about fostering, you can e-mail the PAWS foster parent coordinator Robin at robin@phillypaws.org.

And don't forget—Phillyist still has two of the Phillyist fosters who are looking for a forever home!

Willa

Willa is a darling three-month-old girl who was found in an abandoned house. She is playful and sweet, and gets along with the children and other dogs in her foster home. Willa tends to be submissive with the older, bigger dogs, and a bit more bossy with the other puppy in the house. She is doing very well with her training, but is still a puppy, so she'll need a patient owner who can continue her training and help her reach her full potential. She loves her chew toys and is a little mouthy, so she would be best in a home with older children who can handle her puppy-ness. Willa is bursting with potential, and will surely be a wonderful pet in the right forever home.

If you'd like more information about Willa, e-mail her foster mom at savabull@gmail.com.

CinePhillyist

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-25T10:30:00-05:00

Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans
In this dark tale of sex, drugs, and crime director Werner Herzog and Cinematographer Peter Zeitlinger craft a dark portrait of post-Katrina New Orleans. Apparently, Herzog has also forced Nicolas Cage to go back to actual acting. Too bad he's opposite Eva Mendes, who never even started.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Fantastic Mr. Fox
Wes Anderson animated a classic Roald Dahl story and cast the vocal talents of George Clooney as the title sly fox. Kudos to the king of quirky indies for such a smart move.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Ninja Assassin
A shadowy movie about a violent ninja assassin. Self-explanitory. Frankly, if you want fight scenes we'd recommend John Woo's Red Cliff instead.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Old Dogs
John Travolta and Robin Williams are once again dragged into the land of middle-aged movie suck (e.g. Wild Hogs and License to Wed). Note to Hollywood: either start giving these two talented actors scripts that don't stink all over the theater or just wait a decade or so and cast them in a Grumpy Old Men remake. The tagline for Old Dogs is "Sit. Stay. Play Dad." Our tagline is "Sit. Stay. Far. Away."
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Red Cliff
Red Cliff is the most expensive Asian-financed film ever made. And who else would be trusted with that distinction but John Woo? We're a bit skeptical that what was a 2 part, 4 hour-plus historical epic has been condensed into mere 2-1/2 hours for ADD American audiences, but ultimately, we have faith in Woo's abilities to express war as visual poetry.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

The Road
Our own Miss Bee tweeted, and we quote, "The Road is THE MOST FUCKING FUCKED UP MOVIE EVER." Therefore we tell you now: don't see this movie if you can't stomach graphic cannibalism. If you're not sure you can handle it, perhaps you should read the Pulitzer Prize winning post-apocalyptic novel first. Just to be sure.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Gary Gulman at Helium Comedy Club

Jenn DiSanto — 2009-11-25T10:00:00-05:00

Photo courtesy Gary Gulman official website

We at Phillyist love a comedian with well-developed bits (ahem...so to speak) on food and dessert, so we are thrilled that comedian Gary Gulman will be bringing his standup act to Helium Comedy Club for two nights only this weekend.

You might remember Gulman as one of the finalists on the early seasons of Last Comic Standing. If not, then perhaps from his time on Dane Cook's Tourgasm. (If you don't dig on the Dane association, understood, but just know that the two have completely different styles. For the most part, Gulman's act is pretty clean, sans vulgarity and profanity. He's also—as far as we can tell, anyway—not a complete tool. So... there's that.)

You can check out clips from his DVD, Boyish Man (Amazon), on YouTube and on MySpace if you need a sampling. And then go forth and hook up Gary Gulman with your audience lovin'.

Gary Gulman
Friday and Saturday, 11/26/09-11/27/09
Shows @ 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. each night
Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom Street
All shows 21+
Tickets: $20-$30

Yo, Philly in the News

Ross Currie — 2009-11-25T09:30:00-05:00

Image Credit: Flickr user ghbrett

John "Jordan" Lewis, who murdered Philadelphia Police Officer Chuck Cassidy, was sentenced to death yesterday. The jury deliberated for less than an hour in deciding whether to sentence Lewis to life in prison or death. Cassidy's widow, Judy, probably put it best: "There are no winners" in this case.

The off-duty police officer who shot and killed 21-year-old William Panas, Jr., during a street brawl in Port Richmond had been investigated for a number of civilian complaints, including seeking retribution for his family while off-duty and using excessive force.

Cue right-wing outrage: The federal appeals court in Philadelphia has ruled that school districts can legally ban religious Christmas songs.

The Sixers were pretty much dreadful defensively in a 108-107 loss to the Wizards last night.

In a City 6 battle of who-can-suck-less, Drexel posted a solid nine-point win over Penn at the Palestra. Meanwhile, Temple took Ball State out to the woodshed for a 20-point home victory.

Today's AccuWeather forecast: Cool with spots of drizzle and fog, high of 55°.

Pick a Party—Save the 941 Theater.

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-24T16:45:00-05:00

Image by Flickr user Max Wolfe

Sometimes, darkness is a theater's old friend. It allows the cast of the currently running show a day to breathe, routine maintenance can be performed, and the stage can be reset for the next performance. But most times, darkness is an enemy to be fought to the death. The longer a theater is dark (without a show in residence), the longer it is without income. If dark is a fight for your life, closed is worse. Closed is dire. Closed is a battle back from the beyond. And in the case of the 941 Theater, a war is being waged right here in Philadelphia.

The 941Theater is a multi-use independent arts space where emerging artists, filmmakers, and musicians can go to show what they've got. Well, it was such a space. The 941's doors have been forced closed, but the battle is on to get them reopened.

There aren't too many places like the 941 Theater in town, and there surely isn't a replacement lined up if indeed the doors are closed forever. Connie's Ric-Rac is the one similar place that comes to mind, and they are graciously supporting the fundraising effort to get their fellow arts space back up and running again. The Starlight Ballroom (an R-5 venue), the M Room, Green Rock Tavern, Cantina Dos Segundos, and 2424 Studios are backing the campaign as well. Local organizations are out in droves, but the 941 Theater needs your support at the upcoming events to fulfill their goal. $1,500 is already in the collection box and if another $1,000 is raised by next week, a private donor will match that amount dollar for dollar. So check out the list below, because this urban combat zone comes packed with good times, bands, DJs, burlesque, comedy, games, raffles, and prizes. There are six fantastic fundraising events lined up to choose from. Pick one, two, or donate online without even leaving your house. We've said it before and we'll say it again—keep the local good stuff intact (because barren wastelands are no fun at all).

Sideshow Prophets, The Old Souls, Three Four Tens, Anchor Boys, Tsunami Rising, a performance by Christa Dagger and Scott Johnston of the Peekaboo Revue, Comedy by The Pickle Man, DJ Dev79, Bikini Oil Wrestling, Disgraceland Hook Squad and more...
Friday, November 27th
Starlight Ballroom (460 N. 9th Street)
7 p.m., 18 to enter, 21 to drink
Tickets: $20

Jam Band Showcase with Bodega and DJs
Saturday, November 28th
Connie's Ric Rac (1132 South 9th Street)
8 p.m., 21+ BYOB
Tickets: $10 at the door

Metal and Punk Showcase with Trasher, Omnious Black, Nassau Chainsaw with Disgraceland Hook Squad, Death Bed, Vulcan
Sunday, November 29th
M Room (15 W. Girard Ave)
8 p.m., 21+
Tickets: $8 at the door

Acoustic music (Brad Carney and Chalk of Old Souls) and Comedy (The Legendary WID & Danny Bee) more...
Monday, November 30th
Green Rock Tavern (2546 E Lehigh Ave)
8 p.m., 21+
Tickets: $5 at the door

DJs Flufftronix and more...
Portion of bar proceeds go to 941 Theater
Tuesday, December 1st
Cantina Dos Segundos (931 N 2nd St No Libs)
Free and open to public

Philly Indie Craft Market
Over 30 vendors, live music from Toy Soldiers, Spinning Leaves, TJ Kong and the Atomic Bomb, The Great Unknown, Homophones
Saturday, December 5th
2424 Studios (2424 E. York St)
Noon-7 p.m.
$2 suggested donation

PAWS Cat of the Week

Ross Currie — 2009-11-24T15:00:00-05:00

And don't forget—Phillyist still has two of the Phillyist fosters who are looking for a forever home!

Jimmy (ID# A08242414)

Jimmy is a dapper one to two-year-old tuxedo cat who has been at the PAWS Adoption Center for far too long—since December 31, 2008. He's got a little bit of an independent streak, but does want a human who will know when he wants to be pet and loved. This Thanksgiving, Jimmy would certainly be grateful to get out of his cage and into a forever home where he roam and relax. He's FELV/FIV/Heartworm negative, neutered, microchipped, and up to date on his shots, so there's nothing holding him back from jumping into being a permanent pet for you.

If you'd like more information about Jimmy, e-mail alamond@phillypaws.org. You can find Jimmy at the PAWS Adoption Center, which is located at 100 N. 2nd Street (the corner of 2nd and Arch). Also, make note of Jimmy's ID number above, and bring it with you when you go to the adoption center. Adoption hours are Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Foodsday Tuesday: Chu on This

Ross Currie — 2009-11-24T14:00:00-05:00

It's an Iron Chef kind of week for us at Phillyist. On Sunday night, we watched Jose Garces rightful place as the Next Iron Chef—something we think has been a long time coming, as we suspect the Iron Chef producers have had their eye on Garces since he took out Bobby Flay as a challenger on the show last year.

Now, we can give you the lowdown on Chew Man Chu, the new restaurant in Symphony House (next to Girasole, in the old Du Jour space) helmed by former Iron Chef America challenger Tyson Wong Ophaso. We're happy to report that even though Ophaso couldn't beat Iron Chef Morimoto on TV, he's putting out some solid Asian fare on South Broad. Chew Man Chu has a sleek, lounge-y look, but don't let that fool you into thinking there isn't some solid food being delivered by the kitchen.

We were especially taken with Chef Ophaso's oxtail dumpling dish—a deep bowl of four delicious, perfectly textured dumplings in a white wine and black vinegar sauce. The oxtail is mixed with crab meat and pork, and although the flavor of the oxtail falls a bit to the background, it's definitely one of the more solid dumpling dishes we've had in the city. Our companion tried out the scallion roti. Chew Man Chu's roti fluffier than what we'd been used to from other Southeast Asian breads, and it didn't deliver much flavor on its own; that's okay, though, because it provides a great means of consuming Ophaso's house-made soy and chili sauces. The soy sauce was especially out of this world, with a nice sweetness to it and some kind of spice that we couldn't quite place. (We're guessing cumin, but can't really be sure.) Seriously, the soy sauce may have been the star of the evening—and that's not a knock on the other food we had, but really just a comment on how damn good the sauce was. We could drink that stuff.

Chef Ophaso's crispy Chinese salad, which came in a mound for the table was perhaps a little similar to what you might find at Continental, provided a nice palate cleanser. We especially appreciate that the salad was properly dressed—enough to enhance the flavor without drenching the crisp vegetables. That set us up for some very flavorful entrees—maybe too flavorful, in fact. We tried the black pepper sirloin steak, which was cooked to a perfect medium rare, just the way this Phillyist likes it—and would have asked for it, if we'd been asked at all how we wanted the meat cooked. We could envision someone who like their meat a bit more done than us having a look of horror if this thing was set down in front of them. But for us, it was just right. And it was one giant piece of steak. Fortunately, we were able to get help from our dining companions in almost finishing it. Almost.

We also got to try the pad see ew, a noodle bowl with flank steak, egg, broccoli, garlic, and bean sprouts. Or at least that's what we're told, because this bowl was so spicy, the chili was all we could taste, and the heat murdered our taste buds so that we couldn't really detect the flavor of, well, anything in the bowl. Fortunately, the pad see ew (and why would you put a dish on your menu with the name "ew" in it, even if it is the proper name) was the only real misstep of the evening. There were some confusing aspects of the dinner, not the least of which was why Chew Man Chu serves its fried rice as a course of its own, and after the entrees no less. We're not even sure whether the rice was any good; we had a couple nibbles to calm our mouths down after the pad see ew, but didn't really take note of it one way or the other.

And even though we were stuffed from the dumplings and meat, we had to find room for Chef Ophaso's house-made donuts, which were perfectly sweet and delicious, with a surprise bit of chocolate hidden in the center of the cinnamon-ish ball of goodness. They were good enough that our table asked for seconds despite our being very full.

As with any new restaurant, Chew Man Chu has some kinks to work out. But if it does, it will certainly become one of the city's hottest pre-theatre spots.

Quick Nosh:

So now that Jose Garces is officially an Iron Chef, we know you're eager to check him out in action as one of the culinary ~~men~~ persons of steel. Well, mark your calendars for Sunday, January 17, 2010, at 9 p.m. That's when Garces's first Iron Chef America battle as an Iron Chef will air.

Plan on indulging in the ages-old tradition known as Black Friday? Afterward, bring a receipt to Avalon Restaurant in West Chester that shows you were out stimulating the economy with your credit card, and get one free entree with the purchase of a second, up to an $18 value.

Going to the Thanksgiving parade and planning to be too tired to cook after? Restaurant 13 at the Marriott has you covered with a Thanksgiving buffet offered from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. and a family-style dinner thereafter. Information and reservations at 215-625-2900.

10 Arts Chef de Cuisine Jennifer Carroll (you know her from Top Chef) and Pastry Chef Monica Glass provide two reasons to get thee to the Ritz: Carroll's specialty holiday menus (available for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve), and Glass's hot chocolate and cupcake duo, available in the lounge every afternoon starting November 27, as well as for dessert with lunch or dinner at the restaurant.

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Photoist

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-24T13:30:02-05:00

Click here to see full version!

Title: Philadelphia, 2009
Photographer: Alan Barr
Location: Broad Street
Camera: Panasonic DMC-LX3

Like to see your photo here? Submit it!

Hey Man, Can't We All Just Get Along?

Erica M — 2009-11-24T12:30:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr Florian

Lately there's been a lot of brou-ha-ha over the use of the road. Spruce and Pine got some fancy new bike lanes just as reporting of bike-pedestrian accidents went to print. Now, the general hum of Philly hostility is increasing. Who gets to blow which stoplight, and which group gets to most egregiously flout the rules without consequences. Are bicyclists the worst because some idiots insist on riding with their headphones? Or are they the worst kind of scum because hipsters love their fixies? But what about cars? Aren't they the folks with the polluting and the South Philly Roll, the 2-ton death machines, cell phones, and lack of turn signals? And man, those pedestrians. They just walk out into traffic in front of everybody. Everyone hates them.

I have hope. We can get along. And we should, because people are going to obviously keep walking (unless Pixar's prognostications speed up), biking because it is awesome, and driving, because that's what modern folks do. We need to get along.

Part of the problem is that everyone believes they are entitled to continue doing whatever annoying/law-breaking thing to which they are accustomed. So, this means it is time to spend some effort breaking down that mindset. Start feeling guilty. Acknowledge that blowing that light is breaking the law. That not bothering to signal you'll be turning left in front of that biker is unsafe and illegal. That when Sesame Street taught all of us to look both ways, it really was for the best. Remember there are other folks out there, going about the daily business of life, and most of us aren't trying to be jerks.

Yo, Philly in the News

Ross Currie — 2009-11-24T09:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user ShootsNikon

On Saturday night, off-duty police officer Frank Tepper shot and killed 21-year-old William Panas, Jr. during a large street brawl in Port Richmond. Now there are some serious questions about whether the shooting was justified, and whether Tepper was drunk when it happened.

~~We knew we loved Stu Bykofsky for a reason.~~ Byko is with us on the whole "cyclists should have to follow the rules of the road like the rest of us" thing. Honestly, why is this even controversial?

National Sudoku Championship officials have stripped third-place winner Eugene Varshavsky of his prize from last month's tournament after an investigation and "re-test" of Varshavsky's sudoku skills made it appear that he had cheated in the tournament.

We hate pigeons as much as anyone. (They're rats with wings, and please stop feeding them.) But we've got to say, using them for target practice is going a bit far, even for us.

With the Dad Vail regatta leaving town, city officials are considering whether they can start up a new race, or lure an existing one to Philadelphia to replace the Dad Vail.

The Flyers fell into a 5-2 hole against the Avalanche last night before trying to mount a comeback in the third period. They came up just short, though, losing 5-4.

The St. Joe's hoopsters played DePaul tight in their Paradise Jam third-place game last night, but the Hawks let the game slip away in the final two minutes.

Today's AccuWeather forecast: Mild and cloudy with morning drizzle, high of 58°. Cloudy tonight with a low of 44°. Also, eat fish.

Extra, Extra

Andrew Johnston — 2009-11-23T16:45:54-05:00

David Headley, a/k/a Daood Gilani, is at the center of a global terrorism investigation. Headley has roots in Philadelphia as his mother is from this fair city and was the owner of the Khyber Pass.

Rishawn "Bean" Morrison was sentenced to six to 23 months of home confinement for cruelty to animals. Morrison set an 8-week-old cat on fire. The cat survived, but later died due to its injuries.

Swarthmore native Henry Spelman was awarded with a Rhodes Scholarship and will study in Oxford next fall. To sweeten the deal, his girlfriend was also awarded a Rhodes Scholarship—officially making them the smartest couple ever.

Ed Rendell and Chris Christie met in Bucks County to discuss various issues that involve Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Among the issues discussed was how to attract more businesses to the region.

Closing arguments and deliberations were postponed in the trial of Officer Chuck Cassidy's killer, John "Jordan" Lewis. They will resume tomorrow.

Playlist Rewind: AFI at the Factory

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-23T16:00:00-05:00

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Opening band Gallows was pretty damn hardcore. Lead singer Frank Carter jumped out into the middle of the floor and sang almost the entire set in the midst of the pit. But Gallows are off the few remaining tour dates because their crazy antics have beat their bodies. So the very British band (as evidenced by the amount of times Frank said the word "fuck") flew back to England. I'm still undecided as to whether I actually liked them or not, but I was pretty entertained by the spectacle of the whole thing. However, Gallows must have gotten the bad kids all riled up because before AFI got to their encore I had shit stolen.

Really, the only disappointing aspects of the show were that "Veronica Sawyer Smokes" wasn't in the setlist, and that I missed the entire encore dealing with Factory security. I was really looking forward to see how the Cure-like nature of "VSS" translated onto the stage, but alas that wish was not to be fulfilled. The rest of the show had all of the qualities you'd want from a long-loved band and the audience reacted in kind: singing, dancing, smiling, and thrashing about. And it was far from disappointing to be be allowed to witness "Values Here," a rare Dog Nasty cover. As an added bonus, the Factory's legendary acoustical flaws dared not rear their ugly little heads during AFI's set.

I am also pleased to report that the Crash Love songs fit in just perfectly with the regular AFI repertoire. "Too Shy to Scream" is probably my favorite song off the new album, and it was done so well live it may have even out-done the recorded version. Actually, if I recall correctly, "Medicate" sounded better live as well. I almost feel bad awarding such an honor because after speaking with Jade it was very apparent that the art for AFI is mostly in the recording. But personally, I've always leaned more toward the live. There's something special about being able to be in the same room as the artist and in the case of AFI, Davey, Jade, Hunter, and Adam each have that implicit ability to reach an audience with a high energy performance. Not to mention you couldn't possibly miss Davey, even from the highest balcony perch. (Dig those gold pants, dude.) I found myself wondering more than once if David Bowie had ever donned a gilded suit and swung a microphone like a lasso. Because if so, Mr. Havok did an exceptional job of channeling the shit out of that, new hair-do and all.

Whole Hog Is All Heart

amym — 2009-11-23T15:15:56-05:00

Photo by Flickr user eli.pousson

The Whole Hog Event, the fundraiser held by Greensgrow Philadelphia Project Saturday, November 21st, was an inspiration. We cannot remember when we had such warm response from a room full of people we didn't really know. Sitting in the expansive party room of the Philadelphia Brewing Company, sipping on a fine Red House while Ray Charles sang about Georgia in the background, all was right with the world. The room was comfortable; mothers fed toddlers amazing homemade salsa and basked in the warmth that comes from a true sense of community. Partygoers buzzed around the bar. They sampled all of the incredible brews the PBC has to offer. The scene was drawn directly from those often depicted in small town fair scenes in the movies. Christmas tree lights twinkled. People smiled and chatted. They shook hands. They got to know their neighbors.

More than anything, it was obvious that Greensgrow loves Kensington and it is encouraging to see that Kensington seeminly loves Greensgrow back.

Greensgrow has brought fresh fruit, vegetables, local cheeses, meats, and eggs to the neighborhood and, amazingly, has found success. We are also happy to report that the Kensington Community Kitchen will open its doors beginning in 2010. It will serve as a neighborhood hub of nutritious and savory delights. Not only will the kitchen provide local entrepeneurs a place to develop and prepare food for resale, but it will also begin to combat the epidemic of obesity and malnutrition that seems to be clawing furiously at Philadelphia's population. Serving as distribution center for Greensgrow's lower income CSA, it will provide educational opportunities for everything from meal planning to food safety.

Aside from saluting their successful mission of opening the Community Kitchen, Greensgrow also gave a big shout out to the Philadelphia Brewing Company by presenting them with the first ever "Whole Hog for The Community" award. Owners Bill and Nancy Barton and Jim McBride moved their brewery to Kensington in 2001 and since then they've become one of the best companies to work for. Ever. They've made the neighborhood safer, greener (by planting trees and using local, sustainable produce for their delicious beers), and—well, just better.

You know, not much is written about New Kensington.

Strike that.

Not many good things are written about New Kensington and that's a shame. Are there dark corners one wouldn't want to wander into at one o'clock in the morning? Of course there are. This is Philadelphia—there are dark corners in City Hall. But there are also beautiful, wonderful parts of this struggling and emerging neighborhood too. You can see tiled murals on the local school and on the tiny library. You can watch as citizens sweep their sidewalks clean. Greensgrow is a leader in the mission and we should all take a minute and salute such a worthwhile nonprofit organization.

If you have a spare hour to volunteer or maybe a spare dime or two to give, it's easy to get in contact with the powers-that-be. Visit the website or give them a call at 215-427-2702.

Photoist

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-23T13:30:00-05:00

Click here to see full version!

Title: Shiloh Baptist Church 4532
Photographer: quiet observation
Location: Graduate Hospital

Like to see your photo here? Submit it!

Phillyist Framed Returns!

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-23T10:00:26-05:00

Hey photobugs, are you ready for Phillyist Framed 2010? Well, here's your heads up. Our wildly successful photography competition is back for another go-round in January. We'll see you back at Studio 34 in West Philly with more of everything. More entries, more judges, more fun! Starting next week we're going to ask you to submit your best Photoist-type creations for a chance to exhibit at a week-long gallery show. (Yes, you will be able to price and sell your work!) Plus, this year our special guest judges will be selecting 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners.

We'll post the full rules, entry form, and judges on Monday, November 30th, but rest assured, the rules will look very much like those from Photoist 2008. If you don't have a Flickr account already, get one now. Subject matter is open, but remember, submitting photographers do need to live in and shoot within the Philadelphia metro area. All entries will be due by Wednesday, December 30th, so you'll have an entire month to decide which images are your best.

Last year we received almost 200 amazing submissions. Ultimately, only 24 pieces made it up onto the Studio 34 walls. This time we want you to be one of the few! Now, ready, set, shoot—Phillyist Framed 2010 opens on Friday, January 29th from 7-9 p.m.

Yo, Philly in the News

Ross Currie — 2009-11-23T09:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user Tammy Green (aka Zesmerelda)

A five-alarm fire tore through a Northeast apartment complex early yesterday morning, leaving at least 80 people homeless.

25-year-old boxer Francisco Rodriguez died last night from a head injury suffered during a Friday night bout at the Blue Horizon.

Closing arguments in the penalty phase of John "Jordan" Lewis, who murdered Philadelphia Police Officer Chuck Cassidy, will be held today. The jury will then deliberate on whether Lewis should be put to death, or spend the rest of his life in prison.

Reality TV spoiler alert for those of you who DVR shows to watch later: The Jose Garces empire continues to grow, as the Chicagoan-turned-Philadelphian master chef became the newest Iron Chef last night.

The Villanova men claimed the Puerto Rico Tip-Off championship by beating Ole Miss yesterday. La Salle faithful also had something to cheer about, as the Explorers finished the Charleston Classic on a high note, beating Tulane. The news wasn't so good for the St. Joe's Hawks, who lost to Purdue in the semis of the Paradise Jam.

The Eagles managed to keep pace in the NFC playoff picture by beating the Bears, 24-20, in Chicago. The win was much needed, as the Cowboys and Giants had both won earlier in the day.

Today's AccuWeather forecast: Cloudy with a little rain, 53 degrees. Cool and drizzly tonight.

Across the Ist-a-Verse

Jillian Ashley Blair Ivey — 2009-11-22T19:30:36-05:00

Gothamist was saddened after seeing why Sad Panda is so so sad.
DCist caught up with the dapper gents and ladies who took to the streets in high style for the D.C. Tweed Ride.
Torontoist Googled its city. Googled it hard.
Seattlest sputtered in disbelief at a grassroots campaign in favor of a proposal to dig the world's largest open-pit mine.
LAist wondered if the city's drivers are ready to go Dutch--as in be taxed based on miles driven instead of the current taxes levied on roads and new car purchases.
Bostonist interviewed Russell Ferguson of So You Think You Can Dance.
Shanghaiist rounded up all the news you'd ever need to read about Obama's town hall in their fair city.
Phillyist wondered if all the fun was on its way out of town.
Chicagoist focused on Oprah Winfrey's announcement that she plans on ending her show in 2011--which resulted in Mayor Daley blaming the media--causing Chicagoist to reflect on the Oprah of yesteryear.
SFist yearned for a McRib sandwich comeback.
Londonist mapped every London location that Sherlock Holmes visited. So now you know.

See Ya Sundee...

Andrew Johnston — 2009-11-20T18:00:00-05:00

Flickr user Jayel Aheram

Quick hit picks for Week 11.

Home teams in CAPS.

Miami (+3.5) over CAROLINA W
Indianapolis (+0.5) over BALTIMORE
JACKSONVILLE (-8.5) over Buffalo
DETROIT (-3.5) over Cleveland
New Orleans (-11.5) over TAMPA BAY
GREEN BAY (-6.5) over San Francisco
Seattle (+10.5) over MINNESOTA
Washington (+11.5) over DALLAS
NY GIANTS (-6.5) over Atlanta
Pittsburgh (-9.5) over KANSAS CITY
Arizona (-9.5) over ST. LOUIS
Cincinnati (-9.5) over OAKLAND
NEW ENGLAND (-10.5) over NY Jets
San Diego (-2.5) over DENVER
Philadelphia (-2.5) over CHICAGO
HOUSTON (-4.5) over Tennessee

This week: 1-0
Last week: 6-9
Season: 75-70

Asshole of the Week

Erica M — 2009-11-20T17:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user bglasgow

So this week's asshole is coming not from Philadelphia, but from the internet. After last week's delve into the personal, we're taking it out into the tubes.

We at Phillyist are obviously Americans (except for that one British dude, but nevermind him). We live in the cradle of freaking liberty. With a bell. So, it seems worth some Philadelphia-sized outrage that some wackadoos are hiding behind God to call for the death of the president. Through a T-shirt.

Yup.

The shirt, with the always recognizable symbol of hands praying, exhorts readers to "Pray for Obama, Psalm 109:08." This particular passage reads, "May his days be few, may another take his office" followed by "let his children be fatherless and his wife a widow." The people who would buy this trash are especially nefarious because of the code they are creating amongst themselves. To most normal people, they're going to look like patriotic-religion-loving types, while instead they're hateful and possibly murderous.

So, gentle readers, if you see someone wearing one of these shirts, remember gentleness. The kind that guy doesn't have. A pretty famous guy once said we ought to turn the other cheek, and even to just give to Ceasar what is Ceasar's. Nothing at all about capping Caesar or praying for God to cap Caesar. Not even if you don't like him.

Maybe the wackadoos ought to try reading the rest of their book. We hear it's pretty good.

Playlist Rewind: Shonen Knife at Johnny Brenda's

Tabitha Vidaurri — 2009-11-20T16:00:16-05:00

Photo by Flickr user Helena P.

When watching a concert, there are many thoughts that may pop into one's head. "Oh, this is pretty cool, maybe I'll buy their album." Or, "This is putting me to sleep." When I saw Shonen Knife live at Johnny Brenda's on Monday, the thought that immediately popped into my head was, "I wish I could bake this band in to a cake so I could eat them!" That's a weird thing to say, but Naoko (guitar), Etsuko (drums) and Ritsuko (bass) would totally understand I meant it as a compliment.

From their album covers, it may seem like Shonen Knife is just another young, cute Japanese girl-band, but do not be fooled: they've been producing their own brand of poppy garage rock for twenty-seven years and have gained quite a cult following. Yes, they wear matching outfits and the ones they wore at the show on Monday kind of looked like Powerpuff Girl dresses, but what about when Naoko and Ritsuko start head-banging in unison? Meanwhile Etsuko is completely murdering the drums and wearing a serene smile the entire time.

The sound is a combination of The Ramones and Buzzcocks, laden with girl group harmonies, and lyrics alternating between Japanese and English. My favorite song off of their new album has to be "BBQ Party," with a chorus that involves screaming: "Pig out! Pig out! Pig out!" Shonen Knife also has a bit of a penchant for Paul McCartney; they've not only covered Beatles songs throughout their career, but have a version of Wings' "Jet" on their new album.

The lineup has changed over the years, Ritsuko being the latest addition on bass. The night of the performance she was wearing a ponytail directly on top of her head that swung around ferociously throughout the show, so she fits right in with the other two members. We got an extra special surprise when Atsuko, Naoko's sister, founding member and former bassist, came on stage and sang "Fruits and Vegetables."

The band's newest release Super Group is a testament to their return to the power trio format. It's entirely in English, and claims "to go back to the starting point of rock." It's a bit of a nebulous statement, I'll admit. But Naoko cleared everything up for me when she giggled and said that she's been listening to a lot of classic rock and metal lately, and proceeded to play "Pyramid Power" which is straight-up, no joke heavy metal, complete with a scorching solo.

The opener for Shonen Knife was Jeff the Brotherhood, and they were a treat as well. The band consisted solely of drums and guitar played by two shaggy-haired Tennessee boys, and my friend described them perfectly as "Sabbath, with riffs played twice as fast." No complaints here.

Shonen Knife's promise is that their new album makes everybody happy. All the smiling, the candy-colored outfits and songs about food may certainly seem its all there to make you happy, but let's not forget this band held their own on the road for over two decades, including during Nirvana's Nevermind tour. When you see Shonen Knife live, you're watching them, nodding your head to the beat, then the playful bopping and toe-tapping turns into the pogo and then ... wait a minute, did they all three just explode into a giant comic book star-shaped "POW"?

At the end of the show, after the audience begged them back onstage for an encore, the three women stood together with their arms in a triangular formation to represent their solidarity as a trio. Shonen Knife, you are a super group indeed!

Thanks to This Week's Advertisers

tien mao — 2009-11-20T16:00:00-05:00

We would like to take a moment to thank this week's advertisers on Phillyist.

John Mayer, find tickets for his Battle Studies tour with the AMEX early on sale.
American Apparel, with 3 stores in Philadelphia, you can look your best after dark.
GroupOn, using collective buying power to bring you one ridiculous coupon each day.

If you're interested in advertising on Phillyist or any other site in our network, check out our online mediakit.

Phillyist Playlist: The Kin at the Trocadero

Jenn DiSanto — 2009-11-20T15:45:00-05:00

Photo courtesy The Kin official website

Tonight The Trocadero is treating you to three acts sure to rock your soul and your socks.

The Watson Twins, The Kin, and Joshua Radin will all take the stage, promising an evening of alternating relaxing and rocking.

We're most excited to see The Kin, who are touring to support their latest album, The UPside (Amazon).

Heaven knows no one has any money and we're all totally stressed out. But tickets are only $17, and really, the entire show should be like aural yoga, with a little bonus toe-tapping, too.

The Kin, The Watson Twins, and Joshua Radin
Tonight, 11/20/09
Doors 7 p.m./Show 8 p.m.
The Trocadero (1003 Arch St.)
Tickets: $17

I Have a Baby and Ten Dollars...Now What?

amym — 2009-11-20T15:30:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user chimothy27

*Corrections have been made in this column concerning the Philadelphia Circus School Event*

Things have been a little crazy in this momma Phillyist's sphere of life, so this week's column is late and abbreviated to strictly weekend happenings. We apologize for the inconvenience and promise that it won't happen again. Hands have been slapped and television privileges taken away.

The Wooden Shoe Bookstore on South is hosting a parents-only event that I thought we needed to include in this week's abbreviated column. Jennifer Silverman, editor of My Baby Rides the Short Bus: The Unabashedly Human Experience of Raising Kids with Disabilities, will be reading aloud from the collection which prides itself on providing parents of special needs children with a welcome chuckle. While this event is adults-only, I think everyone dealing with a challenge needs to find support and it looks like this might be a great "networking" event. The reading begins at 3 p.m. and is set to last (roughly) until 4—and it's free.

The Philadelphia School of Circus Arts is having a graduation—and you're invited. Curtain goes up at 8 p.m., and ~~kids ages 10 and up (along with their families)~~ no one but adults are invited to watch students perform individual and duet acts of their own creation. Later, the ~~children~~ adults can "mingle" with performers, ask questions, and get detailed information about how everyday objects found in their garage can be ingested in the search to breathe fire. Best of all, there is a dessert bar with "hot beverages" what kind of hot beverages I'm not certain. All I know is that they will be hot. Admission is ten bucks a head and while advanced registration is not required it is strongly encouraged. Either call 215-849-1991 or visit their website for more information.

Feel like going to a robot party? Maybe a pirate party? The Big Blue Marble is having a birthday weekend extravaganza and everyone's invited. Beginning Saturday at 1 p.m., this kid-focused bookstore is celebrating their fourth anniversary by hosting a slew of activities, refreshments, and book readings. Mara Rockliff will be reading her work, The Busiest Street in Town to kick things off and then later Mark Rogalski will be hosting the aforementioned robot party with a reading from his work, Robox, crafts, and treats. Sunday sees further readings from the likes of Marc Rosenthal and pirate themed activities and pirate goodies. All activates are free and great for all ages but if you need more information on all goings-on, visit their website.

The Tyler Arboretum is holding a crafty kids hour (10 a.m. to 11 a.m.) on Saturday, the 21st for children ages 7 to 9. For a pretty reasonable fee of $8 a head ($6 for members) kids can create Thanksgiving centerpieces. And you know what? Tyler Arboretum gets a special pat on the back for not asking them to decorate mini-Christmas trees. Filling baskets with seasonal fruits, gourds, pine cones, and nuts will create a masterpiece that will make any grandparent reach into their wallet for the standard $5 cuteness charge. Parent participation is welcome, but really not necessary. Advance registration is required. Visit the Arboretum's website for more details.

Continuing with the apparent literary theme of this pre-Thanksgiving weekend, the Philadelphia Free Library is holding a fundraiser for their summer reading program this Sunday. Hosted in Children's Book World, a number of distinguished young adult book authors will be on hand to sign copies of their work with 20% of all purchases made donated to the library. Now here's the catch: The authors will only be signing copies of books purchased there on the day of the event. While I would normally cry foul, the library needs money so badly, I'm standing behind this policy. For more information on authors and times, visit the website.

I will leave you with a final, non-bookish type tip. The Kimmel Center is holding a free concert this Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Featuring Svitanya, a woman's vocal ensemble performing Eastern European folk music, the Commonwealth Plaza stage is welcome to all people, all ages. No advanced registration is required, but if you'd like to know more call 215.893.1999 or visit the website.

So that's the abbreviated and late-to-run baby deal column for the week. I'll be back next week with a full run through of the week's events. Remember, if you have a tip you'd like to see here or gripe you'd like to see elsewhere, please email me at amym@phillyist.com. Have a great weekend!

Blogged Around Philly: The Geeks Rule Edition

melissa shae — 2009-11-20T15:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user thisisbossi

Who needs an RSS feed when you have us? Bringing you the best of the 215 blogosphere...

We kinda feel bad for the Sixers after reading this Philebrity story.

Geekadelphia celebrated their third anniversary last night.

Word on the street—or in Beerleaguer—is that Pedro Feliz is showing interest in the Orioles.

Break my Routine forces us to stop for a second and check out 30th Street Station. It's the second busiest rail terminal in the country.

We can't get enough of Schmitten Kitten's "Things in his house that make me sad" posts. This time, it's wastebaskets.

Photoist

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-20T13:30:00-05:00

Click here to see full version!

Title: Reading Viaduct Garden
Photographer: Jackson Gruber
Location: Philly

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Greensgrown Goes Whole Hog

amym — 2009-11-20T13:00:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user Addictive Picaso

Phillyist is a huge fan of Greensgrow, so much so that we've mentioned them bunches and bunches before, but just in case you can't place the name (or tear yourself away from this stellar article) we'll remind you of Greensgrow's fantastic mission. Dedicated to growing fresh veggies and fruits here in our fair city, making use of an otherwise barren super fund site, importing delicious local artisan groceries, and supplying ALL your urban gardening needs, Greensgrow provides a small oasis of agricultural calm in Fishtown.

Greensgrow is hoping to expand their reach by adding a community kitchen (ala Moosewood) to their repertoire and they need your help...and your cash. This Saturday, November 21st, Greensgrow is holding their second annual Whole Hog event at the Philadelphia Brewing Company. Trading an evening of food, drink, and merriment for your "suggested" donation of fifty bucks a head, this fundraiser is actually a bargain. When else do you spend just fifty bucks on dinner and drinks on a Saturday night?

The Philadelphia Brewing Company will be playing host to this feast of awesomeness. The menu? Oh, its not much. Just a feast featuring a Cuban style pig (thus the Whole Hog event), grilled salmon, vegan and vegetarian delights, freshly milled cider, and PBC's Harvest From the Hood beer made from hops grown at Greensgrow, and all this deliciousness is up for grabs for three solid hours. Doors open at 5, with event wrapping up around 8 p.m.

Still unwilling to open your wallet? Try to remember, all proceeds from the event support the amazing community kitchen. What is a community kitchen you ask? In addition to offering the use of a fully equipped, commercial kitchen to established and start up food-based businesses, the Kensington Community Kitchen will act as a resource for all by hosting workshops on food preservation, smart cooking and food preparation, small business organization, and food safety and handling. The kitchen will also serve as home base for Greensgrow's 2010 Low Income CSA.

To buy tickets early, visit Greensgrow online, pick up tickets at the door, or if you need more information, email Mary Seton at events@greensgrow.org. This Phillyist will be there with bells on, so if you want to rail against me and my dislike of early Christmas exploitation, here's your chance. I'll be the one with "Death to Elves" shirt.

Phillyist Playlist: 311 at the Borgata Event Center

Leigh Simpson — 2009-11-20T12:30:00-05:00

Photo courtesy 311 official website

311 has always been a band that puts on a fantastic, high-energy show and tomorrow night's sold-out performance at The Borgata should prove to be no exception. This Phillyist was a fan of 311 when Grassroots came out and their sound has evolved so fluidly, keeping us interested ever since. This new fall tour seems to stem off the most recent summer tour, promoting their newest album, Uplifter.

We like Uplifter a lot, mainly because the title of the album does a great job of reflecting the songs that are on the album. Everything's very light, has a positive vibe and is perfect for relaxing with friends in the summertime (or, considering we're plowing into winter, wishing you were on that tropical island.) The quintet will be hitting up 20 cities across 15 states, visiting places they've not been in a while and, much to the delight of Phillyist, playing smaller venues. We've had the opportunity to see 311 play at the E Center (no, not any of this Susquehanna Bank Center crap. It was the E Center, whippersnappers). Shortly thereafter we saw them at a little club in Connecticut and frankly, we prefer the intimate venues over the arenas any day, especially when dealing with an old-school favorite.

Do your best to grab some tickets on Craigslist. You'll definitely have a fun time at this show.

311
Saturday, November 22, 2009
The Borgata Event Center, Atlantic City
8 p.m.
Tickets: SOLD OUT! See what you can grab on Craigslist

CinePhillyist Reviews... The Twilight Saga: New Moon

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-20T11:30:00-05:00

Normally when we go out in the world to review films, we end up in one of the smaller theaters at the Ritz 5 with a mere handful of other journalists and/or bloggers. For Twilight: New Moon, not so much.

Going into it, I was unaware that the advanced screening held at the UA King of Prussia on Wednesday evening was to be a mix of industry invites, journalists, and a whole mess of Q102 radio contest winners. In fact, if I had known I would be sitting through a painful pre-show trivia session in front of the most obnoxious tween girls who insisted on screaming every answer, I probably would have elected to go see Amanda Palmer at the TLA instead. HOWEVER, when reviewing of a film like New Moon it's actually sort of essential to see it with an audience. Especially one filled with annoying little teenagers. Because it's not just about the movie; it's about the spectacle.

Fair warning—if you know not the difference between your Cullens and your Quileutes stop reading now, because I'm not omitting plot points for non-Twihards. This has been your official SPOILER ALERT.

The movie starts off with a quote from everyone's favorite star-crossed lovers (before Edward and Bella came along, that is), Romeo and Juliet: "These violent delights have violent ends/ And in their triumph die, like fire and powder,/ Which, as they kiss, consume..." It's a pretty clever steal directly from the New Moon book, which immediately gives the audience faith in the fidelity of the film. Shortly thereafter Director Chris Weizt takes a much better stab at the vampire sparkle effect than Catherine Hardwick was able to pull off in the first film (although, it's possible I've just learned to accept that sparkle on screen looks a little more like sweat than I had originally envisioned while reading). Actually, in my opinion, Weizt also draws better performances from everyone, especially Kristen Stewart, which was something I wasn't necessarily expecting.

Things moves swiftly post-Bella's dream of aging beyond her appeal to Edward. The central love triangle starts early and the moment Taylor Lautner appeared on screen as Jacob, high-pitched girlie shrieks echoed from front to back. He wasn't even flashing abs yet. But when he finally does take off his shirt, even the older women in the theater sigh. Screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg does an excellent job rearranging key elements and condensing the story down to the essentials: Edward dumps Bella for her own good (because sex = the loss of your soul, don't you know), Bella goes all kinds of emo, and Jacob saves her from her own misery but he's a werewolf. Pretty simple, except for the fact that Bella can't possible be attracted to a normal dude, yes? Eh, no.

In true R+J fashion, there's mistaken death, attempted suicide, and then—in a twist from our old Bard's tale—a dramatic rescue. Of course, with soapy and somewhat unsophisticated source material such as Stephanie Meyer's, a fair amount of cheese manages to sneak in. There was plenty of awkward laughter from the audience to go along with the few scenes that featured awkward performances of the awkward dialog. It was um ... awkward. But somewhat charming and fitting all the same. Fortunately, there are also some snappy quips, mostly delivered by the much better screen version of Jessica (Anna Kendrick), the ever-easy going Charlie (Billy Burke) and the pale-faced James Dean himself (Robert Pattinson), along with captivating exchanges, especially between Bella and Jacob towards the beginning of their "relationship."

There are a few notable technical achievements in New Moon. The time passage that is expressed with four practically empty pages in the book is done with a 360 x 4 (that's 1440 degrees of circle!) shot of Bella looking out her bedroom window. The window beautifully shows the seasons changing as October turns into January with no physical movement on Bella's behalf representing her virtually comatose mental state. Bella's hallucinations of Edward are made more real when she actually sees a spectre of him instead of just hearing his voice in her head, giving her desire for the reckless even more motivation.

As for the battle sequences: I can see why Weitz was well suited to direct this picture, because Jacob versus Paul beats the polar bear versus polar bear fight in The Golden Compass. The Victoria/Jake standoff is just as cool, and had the added bonus of being underscored by the best song on the soundtrack. Wish I could tell you what that was, but whipping out the Shazam app in the middle of the theater would have been rude. I'll venture to guess it's whatever Thom York wrote, but I could be wrong. (Sidenote: The soundtrack is somewhat brilliant, but the score is horrible and distracting. This is strange because I normally like Alexandre Desplat's compositions.) On the other hand, I have an issue with the vampire on vampire fight in Italy. Not technically, but story-wise. Yes, the Voluri are older and stronger, but Edward's convenient mind-reading talents should have helped him not get his head smashed so much. It's kind of an important strategy later on in the Saga. Finally, the hair and make-up team does an absolute bang-up job on Dakota Fanning. I never realized her eyes were so freaking giant until they were red. Michael Sheen is also made to look quite creepy as Aro.

Edward and Bella are reunited but still locked in conflict over her future status as an immortal when the film finally cuts to black and the credits roll. The formerly mentioned obnoxious teen behind me shouts "I love Chris Weitz!" Now, no offense to the director—he did a really solid job on the film—but he's a not-all-that-attractive, middle-aged fellow. Teenage declarations of love for him are just further proof of rampant fandom. I may not be venomous in my devotion to the saga (or a teenager at that), but I'm not ashamed to admit my love for the tame vamps was sustained enough by New Moon to be excited for the next two cinematic chapters. Now how many days until Eclipse?

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Yo, Philly in the News

Ross Currie — 2009-11-20T10:30:00-05:00

Photo by Flickr user K_Gradinger

Let the bike enforcement showdown begin.

The penalty phase in the trial of John "Jordan" Lewis, who was found guilty of murder in the first for killing Philadelphia Police Officer Chuck Cassidy, is set to begin. The jury will decide whether to sentence Lewis to life in prison or give him the death penalty.

Three men, including one from Newark, Delaware, have been charged with hacking Comcast's website in May 2008. The hack caused anyone who tried to access their Comcast e-mail or voicemail to be redirected to a message saying "KRYOGENIKS Defiant and EBK RoXed COMCAST sHouTz to VIRUS Warlock elul21 col 1 er seven." Is that even English?

The sixth-ranked Villanova hoopsters squeaked by George Mason in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off thanks to freshman Isaiah Armwood's three-pointer with 13.3 seconds to go.

Today's AccuWeather forecast: 62 and clear today, leading into a pretty nice November weekend.

CinePhillyist

Allison Krumm — 2009-11-20T10:15:00-05:00

Only four new movie choices for this weekend, folks. Looks like Hollywood couldn't rustle up many opponents who wanted to do battle against the juggernaut that is Twilight. Cowards.

The Blind Side
This Phillyist has a weird problem with sports movies, especially football ones. I have a tendency to cry my eyes out through all of Rudy and sob like a freak during We Are Marshall. So I'll admit it, the trailer for The Blind Side has made me tear up a couple of times. There's a good amount of controversy around the issue of race regarding this story, but if it manages to walk the fine line between touching and overly-sentimental, and remain grounded in the real-life details of how NFL player Michael Oher was adopted by the Touhy family, it could really work.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

The Messenger
We're featuring the movie poster for The Messenger in this week's CinePhillyist because A) the design is bad-ass, B) this quiet little indie is the anti-Twilight choice of the weekend, and C) we like it when Woody Harrelson goes all dramatic-like. Not be confused with the Joan of Arc movie, The Messenger is a dynamic exploration of the Army’s casualty notification process and how the officers charged with this duty interact with their fallen brothers' next of kin.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Planet 51
Less funny versions of the little green aliens from Toy Story team up with a less adorable version of Wall-E and a poor excuse for Buzz Lightyear. Lame, lame, lame. Here's hoping your kids are smart enough to not be fooled.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

The Twilight Saga: New Moon
The vampire/werewolf/angsty teenager love triangle has already won the weekend. Pre-sales are through the roof and little girls have been in line for days. Our review posts later, but since we've already admitted a good many of us have that 16-year-old girl mentality, it should come as no surprise that we dug it hard.
Playing at... - Trailer - Reviews

Where Have All Our T-Shirts Gone?

Colleen Clemens — 2009-11-20T09:45:11-05:00

Perhaps the sting of the Phillies losing has lessened. But wouldn't it be nice to wrap yourself in t-shirt touting the Phils as the World Champions? Clearly, all of those shirts had to printed before the results were determined. So where did they go? To developing nations. World Vision works with Major League Baseball to ensure that all of those new shirts don't go to waste. So somewhere out there, the dream of a Phils' win is alive and well and working for a good cause.

Extra, Extra

Andrew Johnston — 2009-11-19T17:45:08-05:00

Photo by Flickr user plemeljr

Thinking of feigning an illness to get out of jury duty? Think again. Anthony DiCicco was found in contempt of court for lying about having the swine flu.

Have you been thinking of attending a Flyers or Sixers game this season? Well, the two organizations are offering 'Recession Buster' prices on some tickets and ticket packages.

Two councilmen plan to propose legislation that would require cyclists to get license plates and to face increased fines for disobeying traffic laws. Under the new legislation, riding on a sidewalk and riding with headphones would cost $300 each.

Don't like your service at a local pub? You better not refuse to leave the tip that is automatically added to your check. Even if you had to "find [your] own napkins and cutlery while [your] waitress caught a smoke, had to ask the bar for soda refills, and had to wait over an hour for salad and wings."

Juan "Two-Face" Rivera-Velez was found guilty of the murder of Miguel Batista. Rivera-Velez was a contracted hitman for drug kingpin Raymond Morales.

Eight Phillies Nominees for "This Year in Baseball" Awards

miss bee — 2009-11-19T16:00:33-05:00

Remember that time when that cute little girl threw the foul ball away during that one Phillies game? Awwwww. Remember when Bruntlett had that amazing unassisted triple play and everyone forget how much he kind of sucked? Yesssss. The season may be over, but the voting and awards aren't yet! The 2009 This Year in Baseball Awards nominees have been announced and quite a few Phils are in the running. Take a gander and vote your brains out, Philly. It's what Jimmy's walk-off double would want you to do. Voting ends December 11th.

Hitter of the Year: Ryan Howard
Manager of the Year: Charlie Manuel
Rookie of the Year: J.A. Happ
Oddity of the Year: Girl rejects foul ball
Executive of the Year: Ruben Amaro, Jr.
Defensive Player of the Year: Jimmy Rollins
Unsung Star of the Year: Jayson Werth
Play of the Year: Eric Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play
Postseason Moment of the Year: Ryan Howard's double play rally, NLDS Game 4
Postseason Moment of the Year: Jimmy Rollins' walk-off double, NLCS Game 4