Presidential Inauguration Screening
Philadelphia bars and restaurants are gearing up for all-day parties with everything from Obamatinis to Hawaiian luaus to mark the biggest Inauguration Day in presidential history. But before it’s time to toast, head to Independence Mall to watch Obama take the oath of office with your Philadelphia neighbors. The City is hosting a free outdoor screening (you can also watch from inside the Independence Visitor Center) of the festivities and offering a ten-percent discount to area attractions should a burst of patriotic pride inspire you to finally go see the Liberty Bell. Then it’s time to party. Tues., Jan. 20, 11am – 1pm, free, Independence Visitor Center, Sixth and Market sts., 800.537.7676, www.independencevisitorcenter.com
A Streetcar Named Desire
This all-new production of Tennessee Williams’s Pulitzer Prize winning drama is particularly noteworthy as the Walnut Street Theatre marks its 200th anniversary this year: The play was first staged here in 1947 when Williams was just starting to make a name for himself. Most will be more familiar with the legendary movie of the same name than the theater production. But for those film lovers who count this one among their favorites–not to mention stars Marlon Brando and Jessica Tandy in their career-making performances–the play, about a down-and-out Southern belle in New Orleans, is worth a look. Through March 1, check Web site for show times, $10 – $60, Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St., 215.574.3550, www.walnutstreettheatre.org
Chinese New Year Celebration
It’s the Year of the Ox according to the lunar calendar so if you were born in 1961, 1973 or 1985 then your personality is, ironically, ideal for the current economic mood. The Ox is the sign of prosperity and hard work and people born during these specific years have the innate ability to keep their nose to the proverbial grindstone. The University of Pennsylvania marks the Chinese New Year with its annual celebration featuring traditional music, dance and martial arts culminating in a Chinese Lion Dance grand finale. Sat., Jan. 24, 10am – 4pm, free with museum donation, University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, 3260 South St., 215.898.4000, www.museum.upenn.edu
AroundPhilly Staff
