Pole to Pole
Did you know that Antarctica is the driest, coldest, windiest region on earth? Or that a male polar bear can weigh up to four times more than a Siberian Tiger? You’ll discover this and more Feb. 9-April 27 with a visit to Ends of the Earth: From Polar Bears to Penguins, a 6,000-square-foot interactive exhibition at the Academy of Natural Sciences that explores the Arctic and Antarctic with more than 30 display areas. View authentic artifacts, walk and slide like a penguin, experience real stories from polar explorers, and more—all while discovering how these regions are profoundly impacted by climate change. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia. Call (215) 299-1000 or visit ansp.org. —Meghan McGarrigle
Star Power
Here’s your opportunity to welcome home local girl Ann Crumb, who stars as Florence Foster Jenkins—a wealthy, delusional socialite who actually believes she’s a talented singer—in Media Theatre’s production of Souvenir, which runs through Feb. 17. Oddly enough, Jenkins’ celebrity status arises due to a lack of talent, her career culminating in a sellout show at Carnegie Hall. The play is told through the eyes of Jenkins’ accompanist, who first sees her unlikely success as a way to pay the rent. But his affection for Jenkins grows as the play progresses. Unlike the character she portrays, the Tony-nominated Crumb is a phenomenal singer and actress, appearing in numerous leading roles on Broadway and in London’s West End. 104 E. State Street, Media. Call (610) 891-0100 or visit mediatheatre.org. —M.M.
Tennessee Titan
A requisite high school read for those of us in our 40s, The Glass Menagerie put Tennessee Williams on the map as one of America’s preeminent playwrights of the 20th century. Set in the 1930s during the Great Depression, the play follows the troubled relationship of Amanda Wingfield and her shy, disabled daughter, Laura, through the eyes of brother Tom Wingfield. Running Feb. 13-March 22, People’s Light & Theatre Company’s version is directed by the organization’s co-founder, Ken Marini, and stars Barrymore Award-winner Marcia Saunders as Amanda. A tender and haunting drama, the production should summon an intense dose of emotion in even the toughest hearts. For a great Valentine’s night out, opt for the Glass Houses Package and spend the night in a participating B&B or hotel. 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern. Call (610) 644-3500 or visit peopleslight.org. —M.M.
For more upcoming events, see our Calendar.