Living on the Fringe
Alternative and underground artists get their annual chance to shine at the Philadelphia Live Arts Festival and Philly Fringe, a three-week performing arts extravaganza running thru Sept. 13. The joint festivals feature an eclectic mix of dance, theater and more. While past Live Arts Festival events have focused mainly on Philadelphia-based artists, this year’s 16-day convergence will include more national and international acts for a varied blend of cultures and styles. By contrast, the lineup for Philly Fringe is made up of local artists who submit self-produced work. All of it combines for a unique and inspiring viewing experience for any fan of cutting-edge theater and performance art. Tickets available on a per-show basis; most shows $25. 32 N. Front St., Philadelphia. Call (215) 413-9007 or visit livearts-fringe.org. —Adam Polaski
In Living Color
Explore the grounds of Henry Francis du Pont’s former home while enjoying a late harvest of flora and fauna, lectures and demonstrations at Winterthur Museum and Country Estate’s fifth annual GardenFair Sept. 26-28. A great way to broaden your gardening horizons, the event features 80 exhibitors and lectures by horticulturist Michael Petrie and others. Tony Bielaczyc, Martha Stewart Living’s deputy garden editor, will be on hand to discuss plants and flowers. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $35 (early look plus three-day admission), $15 (two-day admission or Sunday only). Route 52, Winterthur, Del. Call (302) 888-4600 or visit winterthur.org. —Christina Lamsback
Rockin’ the City
After finishing up the extensive European leg of his world tour, Ben Folds celebrates his return home with a Sept. 6 show at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts. Perhaps best known for his 2001 album Rockin’ the Suburbs, the misfit rocker always delivers a giddy, passionate performance—and here he’ll be joined by members of the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia. But don’t expect the piano-pounding Folds to suddenly go all refined and sophisticated on us. Chances are he’ll still have a go at his piano stool, so fans of the former Ben Folds Five frontman shouldn’t be disappointed. 8 p.m. $29-$59. 5201 Parkside Ave., Philadelphia. Call (215) 893-1999 or visit manncenter.org. —A.P.
For more upcoming events, see our Calendar.
