Shameless Plug -- Exile's SHINING CITY

In case you haven't heard, Theatre Exile's production of Conor McPherson's Shining City is FABULOUS. I could go on about all the glowing things reviewers have been saying, or about all the emails I've been getting from patrons who loved the show. I could tell you how the cast, director, and designers came together to create a seamless, eloquent, and heart-wrenchingly honest evening of theatre. I could, because I've done all these things through other venues -- I work for Exile, so it's my job.

Rather than repeat myself, I'll just urge you to come see the show before it closes on the 25th. You won't be disappointed. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 215-218-4022.

Free Shakespeare

Since moving to Philadelphia in 2006, I've looked forward each summer to Shakespeare in Clark Park, free Shakespeare in an outdoor setting. Unfortunately, the weather has put a damper on this year's outdoor ambience--one of my favorite parts of the experience is being able to sit outside and picnic before and during the play. Tonight is the final performance of the season, and after having just checked their website, I see it's already been moved indoors due to the storms we had this morning and are likely to receive later tonight.

Still, whether performed inside or out, it's free local Shakespeare. I'll just have to save my bottle of wine and blanket until the free Rittenhouse Square "Concerts in the Park" series begins in a couple of weeks.