Here are some fun things to do in the next few weeks in the Philly region

by vince carey

Can we talk?

Well, that’s really going to depend on a lot of things in this day and age.

The National Liberty Museum at 321 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, is opening “Let’s Talk: Confronting What Divides Us” exhibit May 16. The exhibit is the third and final installment of the museum’s 2024–25 initiative, “The Year of Free Speech,” which celebrates the past, present and future of the First Amendment.

“At the heart of democracy is the freedom not just to speak, but to listen,” said Alaine K. Arnott, president and CEO of the National Liberty Museum. “ ‘Let’s Talk’ challenges assumptions about division in America and equips visitors with the civic and communication skills to listen actively, speak thoughtfully, and build a more connected society.”

The exhibition features an immersive experience where visitors can interact with artificial intelligence to engage in civic dialogue, explore multiple perspectives, and practice discussing contentious topics with those who might think differently, including  censorship, identity politics and rapid technological change.

Also a part of the exhibition is “Jesters and Fools,” a short documentary by filmmaker Rob Feld that blends sociology and humor to explore the role of media in politics and our national identity.

“Let’s Talk” will be open through March 2 in the museum’s third-floor galleries.

The museum will hold a party on May 15 to celebrate the opening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., featuring indoor and outdoor live music, food, drinks and a preview of the new “Let’s Talk” exhibit.

Tickets are available at www.libertymuseum.org/event/may-third-thursday-lets-talk.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams is opening a new store on Lancaster Ave. in Ardmore. (Photo courtesy of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams)
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is opening a new store on Lancaster Ave. in Ardmore. (Photo courtesy of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams)

Free ice cream in Ardmore

Just in time for summer weather, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is opening a new store on May 14 at 840 W Lancaster Ave. in Ardmore.

To celebrate, Jeni’s is giving out free scoops from 6 to 10 p.m. to anyone who enters the shop. Additionally, the first 50 people in line will score some Jeni’s swag.

Jeni’s will also be running a giveaway, with five lucky guests winning free ice cream for a year.

To enter the giveaway, guests will need to download the Jeni’s app to sign up for Jeni’s Splendid Rewards program and scanning their rewards app during the grand opening.

Jeni’s new Bryn Mawr location will be scooping all the classics fans love, including Brambleberry Crisp and Salty Caramel, plus the Spring Collection with four brand new flavors sure to brighten the season.

 Theater Unspeakable and Let's Make History Productions announce the return of the critically-acclaimed theater show The American Revolution May 17 and May 31 at the King of Prussia Town Center. (Photo by En Route)
Theater Unspeakable and Let’s Make History Productions announce the return of the critically-acclaimed theater show The American Revolution May 17 and May 31 at the King of Prussia Town Center. (Photo by En Route)

Big history on a small stage

“The American Revolution,” a family-friendly retelling of the country’s founding, combining tongue-in-cheek humor with imaginative physical theater in a 10-minute “pop-up” style, will be at the King of Prussia Town Center May 17 and May 31.

The show first debuted to Philadelphia audiences in 2017 during a run at the Arden Theatre Company.

“We are excited to be returning to historic Valley Forge for another year with our show, and doing it this time as a ‘pop-up’ show that will play every hour,” said director Marc Frost. “The show tells a big story of America’s founding in a small space, which really opens up people’s imaginations. We are honored to get the chance to perform where it all started. This time, we are bringing a new version of the show to KOP Town Center, a 10-minute action-packed performance for families to enjoy in between shopping and dining.”

The show features five actors skilled in physical comedy and a unique stage production to offer a comprehensive historical experience and the retelling of a big story in a small space.

Actors use their bodies and voices and pantomime theater to recreate the American fight for independence from Lexington to Yorktown, while two feet off the ground on a narrow 3-foot by 7-foot stage.

For more information, go to www.americanrevolutiontheshow.com or www.valleyforge.org/things-to-do/arts-culture/american-revolution-show.

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