Also this issue: Raising the Bar A look at Philly watering holes that offer more than just drinks to local artists. -Susan Hagen Tree of Life In Project Room's latest installation, Keiko Miyamori captures the spirit of the neighborhood in the roots of one of its trees. -Robin Rice Wig Out -Ashlea Halpern Private Eyes -Lori Hill Going Solo -Debra Auspitz

July 12-18, 2002

artpicks

Eat, Shorts

It used to be you had to go to Tony and Tina's Wedding to eat pasta while watching theater. No more, thanks to Ficticious Theatre Co. This week marks the third annual Philly Blunts Festival, featuring short plays, music and even an art exhibit. And, oh yeah, pasta. Every night audience members are welcome to BYOB (that's booze, not actual blunts, kids), and on Thursday nights there's pasta, salad and garlic bread. Check out work from University of the Arts photography students and paintings by local artists and enjoy music from local singer/songwriters. Then seven short plays by folks like Domenick Scudera (of Gaybonics fame) and Michael Phelan will be performed by a company of seven actors. Sounds like a lot for one evening, but you certainly won't go home hungry.

Philly Blunts Festival, July 17– Aug. 2, 7 p.m., $10 ($15 on Thursdays), the Ethical Society, 1906 Rittenhouse Square , 215-772-9140.

—Debra Auspitz