{"id":18418,"date":"2016-02-05T11:00:59","date_gmt":"2016-02-05T16:00:59","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=18418"},"modified":"2016-02-05T10:51:49","modified_gmt":"2016-02-05T15:51:49","slug":"what-to-do-chadds-ford-plein-air-event-sat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=18418","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Chadds Ford Plein Air Event, Sat."},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;\"><em><strong>Also: Chocolate lovers rejoice, Celtic Fest and more!<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;\"><span class=\"s1\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">By Denny Dyroff<\/span>,<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 8pt;\"><em><span class=\"s1\">Staff Writer, The Times<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/cf-plein-air-300x300.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1277902\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/cf-plein-air-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"cf-plein-air\" \/><\/a>Usually, winter weather in this area is not very conducive for outdoor events &#8212; except maybe activities for skiers, skaters, snowboarders and people who enjoy really cold outdoor temperatures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">However, this weekend might be an exception to the rule and that\u2019s a good thing for area art lovers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On February 6, the Chadds Ford Historical Society will host its Eighth Annual Winter Plein Air Event at its Barn Visitors Center (1736 Creek Road, Chadds Ford, 610-388-7376, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.chaddsfordhistory.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.chaddsfordhistory.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><!--more--><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Two years ago, the event, which is also known as \u201cPaint-Out Chadds Ford,\u201d was cancelled because of severe weather. This year, the forecast for Chadds Ford on February 6 is \u201cpartly cloudy with a high of 45 degrees and 0 per cent chance of precipitation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">If you\u2019re wondering why the weather is a factor in the presentation of an art show it\u2019s because this weekend\u2019s event is not just another art show &#8212; it is a plein air event.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cEn plein air\u201d is a French expression which means \u201cin the open air.\u201d It is mainly employed to describe the act of painting outdoors, which is also called \u201cpeinture sur le motif\u201d (\u201cpainting on the ground\u201d) in French.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">This weekend, a select group of 22 artists will be creating works of art \u201cen plein air.\u201d After a session of painting in Chadds Ford and the Brandywine Valley, the participating artists will return to the Chadds Ford Historical Society\u2019s Barn Visitor Center to frame and hang their paintings for a special exhibit and art sale.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Visitors are invited to attend the exclusive \u201cEn Plein Air Preview Party\u201d on Saturday from 5-6 p.m. for a first look at the wet paintings while enjoying wine and hors d\u2019oeuvres with the artists. All the artwork on display will be available for purchase.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Preview tickets, which admit two people, are $50 &#8212; $25 of which can be applied to an art purchase. Following the preview, there will be a wine-and-cheese reception from 6-8 p.m. which features the regular admission price of $10.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The roster of artists in the 2015 winter \u201cen plein air\u201d event features Bruno Baran, Jane Ramsey, Stewart White, Lynn Mehta, Jacalyn Beam, Roberta Staat, Jackie Clark, Chuck Law, Desiree Holmes Scherini, Ann Crostic, Erin Gill, Randall Graham and Neal Hughes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The list also includes Monque Kendikian-Sarkessian, Jeanne Kirby<a href=\"http:\/\/www.jeannebruneau.com\/\"><span class=\"s3\">,<\/span><\/a> Barry Koplowitz, Courtney Lee, Alison Menke, Elise Phillips, Alison Menke, Elise Phillips, Jim Rehak, John Slivjak, Anne Snyder and Tara Will.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The General Warren Inne (9 Old Lancaster Road, Malvern, 610-296-3637, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.generalwarren.com\/\"><span class=\"s3\">www.generalwarren.com<\/span><\/a>) is an historic site &#8212; a site with a lot of history and a site that is still involved in history of the area.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_1277903\" style=\"width: 235px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/gen-warren-Paranormal-Investigator-Laurie-Hull-225x300.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1277903\" class=\"wp-image-1277903 size-medium\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/gen-warren-Paranormal-Investigator-Laurie-Hull-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"gen warren Paranormal Investigator Laurie Hull\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-1277903\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Laurie Hull, who is the director and founding member of Tri County Paranormal will discuss paranormal investigations of the Paoli Battlefield as part of a lecture program at the General Warren Inne.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Since 1745, the Historic General Warren Inne has been center stage for American history and a premier carriage stop for hungry travelers. The Inne was initially called the Admiral Vernon Inne and was named in honor of the naval commander Admiral Edward Vernon who led the 1739 attack and capture of Portobello, Panama.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">In 1758, the inn\u2019s name was changed to the Admiral Warren after the famed Admiral Peter Warren, a hero who defended the American colony at Louisburg, Nova Scotia during the French and Indian War. During the time of the American Revolution, the Inne was owned by John Penn of Philadelphia, who was a loyalist and the grandson of William Penn.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Situated on the main highway between Philadelphia and Lancaster, it became a popular stage stop during the Revolutionary War era &#8212; and a Tory stronghold. The Paoli Massacre was planned and launched from the Admiral Warren Inne in September 1777. In 1825, the Admiral Warren was renamed the General Warren, to honor the American hero of Bunker Hill.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Now, the General Warren Inne annually presents a series of lectures about America\u2019s war for independence. On the second Monday of each month now through May, the Inne will host \u201cPaoli Battlefield Lecture Series\u201d presented by the Paoli Battlefield Preservation Fund.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On February 8, Laurie Hull, who is the director and founding member of Tri County Paranormal, will discuss her results of two paranormal investigations of the Paoli Battlefield that took place last year. These tours showed that there was paranormal activity all around the battlefield.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The lecture by Christian M. McBurney on March 14 will be \u201cKidnapping the Enemy: The Special Operations to Capture Generals Charles Lee and Richard Prescott.\u201d On April 11, the lecture by Don N. Hagist will be \u201cBritish Soldiers, American War: Voices of the American Revolution.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Seating is limited so it advisable to make advance reservations. Admission, which is $49 per person, includes lecture, buffet, family style sweets, taxes, gratuities and all non-alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages are available at an additional cost.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/sugartown.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-1277904\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/sugartown.png\" alt=\"sugartown\" \/><\/a>On February 6, Historic Sugartown (690 Sugartown Road, Malvern, 610-640-2667, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.historicsugartown.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.historicsugartown.org<\/span><\/a>) will present a special event called \u201cCabin Fever Saturday\u201d from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The event will have an array of family-friendly crafts and old-fashioned games along with demonstrations by Historic Sugartown, Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, East Goshen Historical Commission and the Wharton Esherick Museum.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Featured activities include making paper using historic methods, creating Victorian Valentine Cards, making and playing with 19<\/span><span class=\"s4\"><sup>th<\/sup><\/span><span class=\"s1\">\u00a0century paper dolls, playing with early American toys and games, old-time activities with the East Goshen Historical Commission and touring Historic Sugartown\u2019s General Store and Carriage Museum.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cCabin Fever Saturday\u201d will also include complimentary coffee and hot cocoa. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children (ages 3-17). Children (ages 2 and younger) are admitted free and there is free parking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Third Annual Rose &amp; Shamrock Celtic Festival, which showcases Irish and Scottish music, dance, and workshops, will be held February 6 at the Ware Center\u2019s Atrium (42 North Prince Street, Lancaster, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.artsmu.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.artsmu.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The festival, which runs from 12:30 to 8:30 p.m., includes a lineup of six Celtic bands &#8212; Belfast Connection, Charlie Zahm &amp; Tad Marks, Fire in the Glen, Seasons, Down by the Glenside and Dublin 5. There will also be a performance by the Hooley School of Irish Dance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Tickets are $35 for adults, $32 for seniors and $15 for students 20 and younger. Food will be available for purchase on-site.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/celtic-festival-300x240.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\" size-medium wp-image-1277905 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/celtic-festival-300x240.jpg\" alt=\"celtic festival\" \/><\/a>If you\u2019re in the Lancaster area on February 6 for the Celtic Festival and you really want to keep your international vibe going, you could also catch a live performance by Flor de Toloache at 6 p.m. at Millersville University\u2019s Winter Visual &amp; Performing Arts Center (60 W Cottage Ave, Millersville, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.artsmu.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.artsmu.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Founded in 2008, Mariachi Flor de Toloache is New York City\u2019s first and only All-Female Mariachi band. The 12-member band features all of the traditional instruments essential in Mariachi &#8212; violins, trumpets, guitar, guitarr\u00f3n (acoustic bass) and vihuela, as well as some surprising elements such as flute and caj\u00f3n (percussion).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The concert lasts 60 minutes with no intermission and admission is free.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">One of the best things about February is Valentine\u2019s Day and one of the best things about Valentine\u2019s Day is chocolate. Valentine\u2019s Day won\u2019t be here until next weekend but that won\u2019t keep chocoholics from celebrating early.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">A great way for chocoholics to satisfy their chocolate cravings is to take a trip to Hershey during the month of February. This month, it\u2019s time for \u201cChocolate-Covered February in Hershey\u201d (various locations around Hershey, 800-HERSHEY, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.chocolatecoveredfebruary.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.chocolatecoveredfebruary.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_1277906\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/hershey-300x190.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1277906\" class=\"wp-image-1277906 size-medium\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/hershey-300x190.jpg\" alt=\"hershey\" width=\"300\" height=\"190\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-1277906\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Hershey is planning a month-long celebration of all things chocolate.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">It is only natural that Hershey, the town that bills itself as \u201cThe Sweetest Place on Earth,\u201d hosts a month-long celebration in honor of all things chocolate. Hershey has decadent chocolate events planned throughout the month of February.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">This weekend, visitors to the Hershey Store can try their hand at making their own heart-shaped milk chocolate confections and hand-made truffles. On February 5, there will be a \u201cChocolate Dinner Extraordinaire\u201d at the Hotel Hershey and a \u201cThe Great Hot Cocoa Challenge\u201d at the Hershey Lodge.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The \u201cHersheypark Chocolate Parade\u201d will be held at the amusement park every Saturday and Sunday in February beginning at 2:30 p.m. each day. There will also be an \u201cInteractive Story Time &amp; Hot Cocoa\u201d session at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. at\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Hersheypark every Saturday and Sunday in February.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Other activities throughout the month include \u201cChef Demonstrations\u201d at the Hotel Hershey, \u201cHershey\u2019s Chocolate Dessert Journey\u201d at Hershey\u2019s Chocolate World, \u201cChocolate and Spirits Pairing Class and Chef Demonstrations\u201d at the Hershey Lodge and \u201cChocolate Tea\u201d at the Hotel Hershey.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The list of special events also includes \u201cHershey\u2019s Character Breakfast\u201d at Hershey Lodge, \u201cWild Treats\u201d at ZooAmerica, \u201cOld Chocolate Balsamic Tastings\u201d at the Hotel Hershey, and \u201cHershey\u2019s Hot Chocolate Pajama Party\u201d at Hershey Lodge.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Video link for \u201cChocolate-Covered February in Hershey\u201d &#8212; <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/bRxnlz9IJvI\"><span class=\"s2\">https:\/\/youtu.be\/bRxnlz9IJvI<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/chadds-ford-winery-300x195.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\" size-medium wp-image-1277907 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/chadds-ford-winery-300x195.jpg\" alt=\"chadds ford winery\" \/><\/a>Chocolate is also featured during \u201cWine and Chocolate Month\u201d sponsored by the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.bvwinetrail.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.bvwinetrail.com<\/span><\/a>). The BVWT is inviting patrons to bring their sweethearts and celebrate with the wineries as they present delicious wine and chocolate tastings and other romantic events throughout February.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Themed events will be held at Kreuz Creek Vineyards (553 South Guernsey Road, West Grove, 610-869-4412, <a href=\"mailto:in**@******************ds.com\" data-original-string=\"qto0a5ocOWvdy5QHcs6okA==750mwUaYATycFqGpZeHb7gbhFdYR++5ECR0ZlomBMHDOXI=\" title=\"This contact has been encoded by Anti-Spam by CleanTalk. Click to decode. To finish the decoding make sure that JavaScript is enabled in your browser.\"><span class=\"s2\"><span \n                data-original-string='Y3bdqKRrqY3pyObsreakHA==750BC2z66ZoUa+SdLqOw0cy\/AB754QJv84hB5KW5l5gpz0='\n                class='apbct-email-encoder'\n                title='This contact has been encoded by Anti-Spam by CleanTalk. Click to decode. To finish the decoding make sure that JavaScript is enabled in your browser.'>in<span class=\"apbct-blur\">**<\/span>@<span class=\"apbct-blur\">******************<\/span>ds.com<\/span><\/span><\/a>) on February 13 and 14, Paradocx Vineyard (1833 Flint Hill Rd., Landenberg, 610-255-5684, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.paradocx.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.paradocx.com<\/span><\/a>) from February 8-12 and Black Walnut Winery (3000 Lincoln Highway, Sadsburyville, 610-857-5566, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.blackwalnutwinery.com\/\"><span class=\"s3\">www.blackwalnutwinery.com<\/span><\/a>) from February 6-28.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Brandywine Artisan Wine Trail (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.brandywineartisanwinetrail.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.brandywineartisanwinetrail.com<\/span><\/a>) will also celebrate chocolate, wines and Valentines throughout the month as part of its month-long \u201cArt of the Valentine\u201d event.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Participating wineries are <a href=\"http:\/\/kennettsquare.thetowndish.com\/restaurants\/flickerwood-wine-cellars-tasting-room\/\"><span class=\"s2\">Flickerwood Wine Cellars<\/span><\/a> (116 W. State St., Kennett Square), <a href=\"http:\/\/kennettsquare.thetowndish.com\/restaurants\/galer-estate-vineyard-winery\/\"><span class=\"s2\">Galer Estate Vineyard &amp; Winery<\/span><\/a> (700 Folly Hill Rd., Kennett Square), <a href=\"http:\/\/gracewinery.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">Grace Winery<\/span><\/a> (50 Sweetwater Road, Glen Mills), <a href=\"http:\/\/westchester.thetowndish.com\/restaurants\/kreutz-creek-vineyard-tasting-room\/\"><span class=\"s2\">Kreutz Creek Vineyard Tasting Room<\/span><\/a> (44 East Gay Street, West Chester), <a href=\"http:\/\/kennettsquare.thetowndish.com\/restaurants\/paradocx-vineyard-wine-shop-cafe\/\"><span class=\"s2\">Paradocx Vineyard<\/span><\/a> (879 East Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square), <a href=\"http:\/\/www.pennswoodsevents.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">Penns Woods Winery<\/span><\/a>(124 Beaver Valley Road, Chadds Ford), <a href=\"http:\/\/www.tengallonhatwinery.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">Ten Gallon Hat Winery<\/span><\/a> (455 Old Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford) and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wilsonvineyard.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">Wilson Vineyard<\/span><\/a> (4374 Forge Road, Nottingham).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Additionally, the Chaddsford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.chaddsford.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.chaddsford.com<\/span><\/a>) will offer \u201cWine &amp; Chocolate Pairings\u201d from February 6-28. Participants will be able to explore several areas of the historic property visit six stations that feature a different pairing of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.johnandkiras.com\/\"><span class=\"s3\">John &amp; Kira\u2019s<\/span><\/a>\u00a0gourmet chocolate with the winery\u2019s award-winning wine.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2016 is the \u201cYear of the\u00a0Monkey\u201d &#8212; actually, the \u201cYear of the Red Fire Monkey.\u201d 2016 is the 4713th Chinese Year and the first day of Red Monkey is on February 4, 2016.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">People born in the \u201cYear of the Monkey\u201d are generally believed to be\u00a0smart, clever and intelligent, especially in their career and wealth. They are lively, flexible, quick-witted and versatile.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On February 5, there will be a special event in Philadelphia to welcome in the \u201cYear of the Monkey\u201d when International House Philadelphia (3701 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, 215-387-5125, <a href=\"http:\/\/ihousephilly.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/ihousephilly.org<\/span><\/a>) hosts its 14th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The popular annual event will get underway at 7 p.m. with traditional food tasting and vendors in the Galleria. At 7:45 p.m., the show begins in Ibrahim Theater featuring traditional dance and music, the lion dance, and more<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children (under 12).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"> <a href=\"http:\/\/managewp.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Exit-Strategy_show-banner2.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-1277909\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/Exit-Strategy_show-banner2-300x90.jpg\" alt=\"Exit-Strategy_show-banner2\" \/><\/a>Another interesting stage presentation in Philadelphia this weekend will be the Philadelphia Theatre Company\u2019s production of the intense and timely play \u201c<\/span><span class=\"s5\">Exit<\/span> <span class=\"s5\">Strategy\u201d<\/span><span class=\"s1\"> by \u201cChicagoan of the Year\u201d Ike Holter.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The show will run through February 28 at the Philadelphia Theatre Company\u2019s Suzanne Roberts Theatre (480 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, 215-985-0420, <a href=\"http:\/\/philadelphiatheatrecompany.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">PhiladelphiaTheatreCompany.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Directed by Kip Fagan, the production features an ensemble cast with Michael Cullen, Aim\u00e9 Donna Kelly, Rey Lucas, Deidre Madigan, Christina Nieves, Brandon Pierce, and Ray Spahn.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cExit Strategy\u201d tells the story of the heartbreaking final days of a condemned Chicago public school &#8212; a school that was physically falling apart and heading to its demolition day that was arranged by City Hall.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cI started writing the play in late 2013 and it premiered at the Jackalope Theatre in Chicago in 2014,\u201d said Holter, during a recent phone interview when the play was in rehearsal stage in Philadelphia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cOne of the inspirations for writing this play was that I really like shows that represent Chicago &#8211;that bring the culture of Chicago to the stage plays. I wanted to do a Chicago story about people hanging on and people letting go. I had a lot of friends who were teachers and I\u2019m also a teacher.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cIt\u2019s important to show how people deal with hanging on and with letting go. There was a teachers\u2019 strike in 2012 and other things happening. It\u2019s hard to find people who were involved that didn\u2019t have an opinion.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The variety of opinions and points of view played a major role in Holter\u2019s approach to the story.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cI knew I wanted to view the situation from a lot of different eyes &#8212; teachers and administration,\u201d said Holter. \u201cSpiritually, I wanted to have as many eyes as possible. I wanted to get a nice mix of voices.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cThe first draft took a few weeks. Plays are an ongoing thing. I come to rehearsal every day and change little things. My role is to give actors time to get comfortable. The show runs 90 minutes without an intermission. Most shows van be 90 minutes and I didn\u2019t think an intermission would help.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cI\u2019ve written eight plays that have been produced &#8212; some in Chicago like \u2018Hit the Wall.\u2019 One was a touring show. One is playing in Los Angeles and one made it to Off-Broadway.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The show that is heading to Off-Broadway is \u201cExit Strategy.\u201d The gripping drama will run March 30 through May 6 at Primary Stages at the Cherry Lane Theatre. Opening night is scheduled for April 12.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Philadelphia Theatre Company\u2019s production will run evenings from Tuesday through Saturday along with matinees on Saturdays and Sundays. Ticket prices range from $24-$62.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">If you\u2019re looking for indoor activities&#8211; especially if you have kids with cabin fever &#8212; there are two good options in nearby northern Delaware.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Stratosphere Trampoline Park (510 Justison Street, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-397-8142, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wilmingtontrampolinepark.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.wilmingtontrampolinepark.com\/<\/span><\/a>) has three trampoline areas &#8212; \u201cMain Arena,\u201d \u201cDodgeball Arena,\u201d \u201cHubble Bubble\u201d and \u201cSlam Dunk Arena.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The \u201cMain Arena\u201d features a grid or trampolines and two tumble tracks. The \u201cDodgeball Arena\u201d takes the classic game of dodgeball to a whole new level &#8212; including fiercely-contested dodgeball tournaments.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">At the \u201cHubble Bubble Arena,\u201d three special trampolines spring participants into action and enable everyday enthusiasts of all ages to \u201cblast their skills to a new level.\u201d Additional attractions at the Stratosphere Trampoline Park are \u201cArcade,\u201d \u201cHurricane Simulator,\u201d \u201cEye Play,\u201d \u201cMechanical Bull,\u201d and \u201cSpeed Wall.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Rates for the trampoline areas are $11 for 30 minutes, $15 for 60 minutes, $19 for 90 minutes and $23 for 120 minutes.\u201cSpeed Wall,\u201d \u201cMechanical Bull\u201d and \u201cVelcro Wall\u201d each require one ticket. One ticket is $2 and a three-ticket\u00a0option is available for $5.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Delaware Museum of Natural History (4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-9111, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.delmnh.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.delmnh.org<\/span><\/a>) has a new attraction. \u201cGreat Balls of Fire: Comets, Asteroids, Meteors\u201d opened on January 30 and will run through May 30.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cGreat Balls of Fire: Comets, Asteroids, Meteors\u201d shares recent discoveries and cutting-edge planetary science with a variety of interactive, multimedia experiences &#8212; ranging from computer-based activities to a larger scale \u201cpod\u201d where visitors can play the role of explorers-in-training.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Comets and asteroids, which are the leftovers of the formation of the planets in our solar system, reside in a few distinct regions of the Solar System. The regions that are home to comets are much further away from Earth (and the Sun) than the region in which asteroids are located.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Because asteroids are relatively close to Earth, they are made up of the same compositional elements as our planet. The composition of comets includes ices that warm up upon approaching the Sun, causing out-gassing that often generates highly visible tails.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Meteoroids are small pieces of asteroids or comets that either burn up in the atmosphere or, as meteorites, strike the surface of the planet. These generally do very little damage. Comets and asteroids pose a danger of colliding with planets, moons or each other only on very rare occasions, but with potentially devastating consequences.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Visitors to \u201cGreat Balls of Fire: Comets, Asteroids, Meteors\u201d will be able to climb into a \u201cspaceship\u201d and blast off to the asteroid belt and Jupiter on a mission to gather data about asteroids and comets; operate a blink comparator device to understand one of the tools astronomers use to find \u201cNear Earth Objects\u201d; learn how scientists use light curves to determine the shape and movement of asteroids; and save Earth and learn about gravity by trying to divert a \u201crubble pile\u201d asteroid from impacting our planet.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Other available activities include seeing what would happen if a comet or asteroid hit your town, shooting a projectile into a water tank and using a Spin Browser device to manipulate high speed video of the impact, examining a collection of rocks and using tests (magnetism, color, density) to determine which is a meteorite, watching clips from Hollywood movies such as \u201cEmpire Strikes Back\u201d and building a solar system using a 42-inch touch-table display.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Admission to the museum is $9 for adults, $7 for children (ages 3-17), $8 for seniors (age 60 and older) and free for children (under three).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">In other museum activity geared for youngsters, the Garden State Discovery Museum: (2040 Springdale Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, 856-424-1233, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.discoverymuseum.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.discoverymuseum.com<\/span><\/a>) is presenting a special program called \u201cPassport to Discovery\u201d on selected weekends now through the end of March.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">This weekend\u2019s themed presentation is \u201cLunar New Year\u201d from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on February 6 and 7. The event will feature the traditional sights and sounds of China\u2019s Lunar New Year celebration.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The activity for February 13 and 14 will be \u201cA Frosty Weekend\u201d while \u201cAfrica\u201d will be the theme for February 20 and 21and \u201cIreland\u201d will be the theme for February 27 and 28. As a special attraction, the museum will host \u201cThe Frosty Ball\u201d on February 12.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Admission to the museum is <b>$13.95<\/b> for adults and children (12 months and over) and <b>$12.95<\/b> for seniors. <b>Children visiting the Museum must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">You still have time to visit the 2016 Philadelphia International Auto Show which opened on January 30 and is running through February 7 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center (1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, 610 279-5229, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.phillyautoshow.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.phillyautoshow.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Philly Auto Show is a huge show with more than 700 vehicles on display under one roof. This year\u2019s 115th annual staging of the event features a 700,000 square foot display floor with a wide array of pre-production, production, exotic, classic, and concept cars.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The 2016 show hours are noon-10 p.m. on February 6, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. on February 7 and 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on February 8. Tickets are $14 for adults (age 13 and up) and $7 for children (ages 7-12). Children age 6 and younger do not require a ticket.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.longwoodgardens.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.longwoodgardens.org<\/span><\/a>) is hosting its popular \u201cOrchid Extravaganza\u201d through March 27.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The celebration of the orchid species features thousands of orchid blooms along with a variety of displays and special exhibits throughout its four-acre conservatory. \u201cOrchid Extravaganza\u201d will also feature stunning displays of orchids in planting beds, containers and innovative exhibits.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Approximately 5,000 colorful orchids hang from baskets, create inspiring arrangements and adorn unique forms throughout\u00a0\u201cOrchid Extravaganza.\u201d Two of the most interesting exhibits are an oncidium waterfall display and an orchid meadow.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Admission to Longwood Gardens is $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and $10 for students.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Finally, if you\u2019re looking for something to do on Sunday, you could watch a pro football game on television. It will be the last one for awhile.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Also: Chocolate lovers rejoice, Celtic Fest and more! By Denny Dyroff,\u00a0Staff Writer, The Times Usually, winter weather in this area is not very conducive for outdoor events &#8212; except maybe activities for skiers, skaters, snowboarders and people who enjoy really cold outdoor temperatures. However, this weekend might be an exception to the rule and that\u2019s [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":18410,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25,4],"tags":[1330,7084,3261,7083,7081,7082],"class_list":["post-18418","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-chadds-ford-historical-society","tag-exit-strategy","tag-general-warren-inne","tag-hersheys","tag-historic-sugartown","tag-rose-and-shamrock"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18418","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=18418"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18418\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18423,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18418\/revisions\/18423"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/18410"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=18418"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=18418"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=18418"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}