First Things First

1st Person Festival

by Monica Weymouth

	print	email	reply

Published: Nov 5, 2008

Yes, everyone has a story. But it seems like — and maybe we're just biased — every Philadelphian has a few. That they tell really loud. At fabulously inappropriate times.

First Person Arts knows this better than anyone else. For the past eight years, they've been coaxing out our city's rants, raves, tear-jerkers and oh-no-she-didn'ts at salons, StorySlams and workshops. Their seventh annual First Person Festival offers a nice intro for the first-timer, or a best-of for the loyal L'Etage-goer.

We've previewed a few of the screenings, readings, performances, tours and exhibits here, and have a handy round-up of all the others.

Some, such as the Complaint Choir, are so perfectly, completely and beautifully Philly, it feels wrong to enjoy them. Others help us take a second look at the city we thought we knew so well. And then there are those that make us a little ashamed — World Series title or no World Series title — to call this place home.

Of course, some are simply about wrestling giant catfish in Oklahoma creeks. And that, somehow, feels pretty Philly.

All reader comments are subject to our Terms of Use. By clicking Post Comment, you acknowledge that you have reviewed and agree to these Terms.

Name	please enter your name
Email (will not be published)	please enter a valid email
Comment	please enter a comment
Enter the security code on the right in the textbox below.
Security Code	please enter the code
	Join the City Paper Mailing List

Complaint Choir
Okie Noodling 2
American Fight Clubs
Crazy Sexy Cancer
Underground America
Girls Rock!
Significant Others