Mystery Meat
At last, the outrageously funny Monty Python’s Spamalot, winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical, is coming to Philadelphia. Running March 20-April 8, the production is based on the classic 1975 comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, which loosely follows King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table on their legendary quest for the Holy Grail. Described as “posh panto for middle-aged boys” by one London newspaper, this no-holds-barred interpretation of the already-irreverent original film will have you giggling from start to finish, as dancing divas, killer bunnies, flatulent Frenchmen, flying cows and a legless knight (dis)grace the stage. The live version features new music and lyrics by Monty Python alum Eric Idle and composer John Du Prez, along with three classic songs from the movie. There’s been mixed opinions on the age-appropriateness of the material, so we say leave the kids at home and party like it’s 1975. Just be forewarned: Your kids might wind up scolding you for repeating all the silliness. Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, 260 S. Broad St., Philadelphia. Call (215) 731-3333 or visit kimmelcenter.org.
Flower Power
March comes in like a lion. But rain, wind, sleet or snow won’t keep thousands of spring-seekers away from the Philadelphia Flower Show March 4-11. Eye-popping garden displays, all-star culinary presentations and lectures on everything from flower arranging to pest control will keep attendees busy all week long. This year’s theme is “Legends of Ireland”—and to help visitors capture a bit of Éire in their own gardens, Helen Dillon, one of its preeminent gardeners, hosts “An Irish Garden” March 9; the event includes a lecture, wine reception and musical entertainment. In between the ogling and the shopping, take a break with a cup of tea, available daily in Room 202. And evening visitors can enjoy a cocktail before or after the show at the Hive lounge. $22/adults, $12/children 2-12. Pennsylvania Convention Center, 12th and Arch streets. Call (215) 988-8800 or visit theflowershow.com.
What’s That Smell?
If you’ve got kids or pets, you know a thing or two about poop. But did you know that some animals—and even humans—use poop to build their homes (see below)? And that others use it to send messages? Muck it up with your kids over these interesting facts and more at The Scoop on Poop! The Science of What Animals Leave Behind at the Academy of Natural Sciences through May 13. This traveling exhibition based on the popular book by Dr. Wayne Lynch is a diplomatic blend of good science and fun, with way-out activities for kids. What could be more amusing than listening in on an animal’s digestive system, examining fecal samples in a veterinarian’s lab, competing in dung beetle races or watching how long it takes elephants to poop their body weight? Kids can also improve their “#2 IQ” in Stool School—something in which most parents are all-too-well versed. Need a souvenir? How about a photo taken inside a replica of an old-fashioned outhouse? $8-$10. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., Philadelphia. Call (215) 299-1060 or visit ansp.org.
