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Bizet’s Opera ‘Carmen’ Seduces Crowds at Philadelphia’s Academy of Music
There’s no missing exactly who and what have arrived. Vive le stage drop! “Love is a rebellious bird that no one can tame.” – Georges Bizet, Carmen, Act I Story, photos by Sharon Kozden – cast photos provided by Steven Pisano for Opera Philadelphia How is it possible I’ve lived so long without attending an opera? My only awareness of opera came when Glenn Close’s bunny-boiler character in “Fatal Attraction” was obsessed with “Madame Butterfly.” Then there was the ‘Til Tuesday “Voices Carry” video, where Aimee Mann won’t hush-hush at another operatic-looking performance. Yep: my vast store of knowledge in all things opera is formidable, I know. I just always…
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Fairmount Park Conservancy Presents Flavors of the Season at Historic Philly Houses
Mama said punch you out! Manatawny Still Works struck seasonal gold with this winter. “For centuries men have kept an appointment with Christmas. Christmas means fellowship, feasting, giving and receiving, a time of good cheer, home. – W. J. Tucker Story, photos by Sharon Kozden ‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through Fairmount Park’s historic houses, the aromas were wafting, from simmering punch to braised beef short ribs – with no signs of either mouse or grouse. The stockings really were hung by the fireplaces with care. And while there was no actual “Visit from St. Nicholas,” the comestibles and beverages included in December 10th’s Flavors of the Season event delivered (as…
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Garces Foundation Gala Urges to Think Local, Give Local at Lowes Hotel
Story by Jennifer Ferrell, photos by Renee DiPietro “America is immigrants.”- Chef Jose Garces The Think Local, Give Local Gala hosted by Philadelphia’s very own restauranteur and Iron Chef, Jose Garces, gave patrons an opportunity to aid in the Garces Foundation created to benefit Philadelphia’s immigrant community. As a child of immigrants hailing from Ecuador, Garces’ created a foundation that provides health and education services to the underserved immigrant population under his employment. To celebrate this worthy cause, the gala, held at the Loews Hotel in Center City, boasted delicious tastings from numerous Philadelphia restaurants while attendees bid silently on food themed items whilst sipping Tito’s Homemade Vodka and tasty wine.…
