Also this issue:

Worlds of Wonder
“Cabinets of Curiosities” is a magical journey through time and spaces.
-Robin Rice

20/20 Vision
Snyderman Gallery celebrates 20 years in the furniture business.
-Lori Hill

Baseball panel discussion
-Andrew Milner

Louis Faurer: A Photographic Retrospective
-John Vettese

Sherman Alexie
-John Freeman

Bloomsday Celebration
-Lori Hill

Frankie Avalon
-Interview by A.D. Amorosi

A Picasso
-David Anthony Fox

June 12-18, 2003

artpicks

“A Night at the Casbah”

The Painted Bride is throwing a party fit for a Casablancan palace tonight. For a lot less than the cost of a Moroccan holiday, Philadelphians can transport themselves to "A Night at the Casbah," the arts center's annual silent auction and dance party. The Bride will fill with the smells of food from Fez and Cedars and the sounds of Joe Tayoun's Spice Route Ensemble. The eyes can take in the belly dancers shimmying away to the group, while the ears and mouth are otherwise occupied. Finally, the silent art auction begins at 6 p.m., with dozens of artworks on which to place (hopefully) generous bids. Shelley Spector, Paul Santoleri and Isaiah Zagar are among the artists putting works up for bidding. Bidders can also go for night-out packages from the Phillies, the Prince Music Theater, PENN Presents and restaurants like Fork and Figs. Attendees can ride into the night on a brand-new "Absolute" bike (courtesy of Trophy Bikes) if they win the $5-per-ticket raffle.

“A Night at the Casbah,” Thu., June 12, 6-10:30 p.m., $40, Painted Bride, 230 Vine St., 215-925-9914.

—Lori Hill