Local actor Tall Matt Haynes (currently appearing in the Miracle Theatre’s excellent La Carpa del Ausente—more on that later) of the Portland Area Theatre Alliance has put together an interesting project: A cookbook composed of recipes from local theater artists, busy folks who are accustomed to preparing quick meals that can be “packed easily into a tupperware container and transported in a backpack” and “enjoyed in the break room or greenroom, even if there are only fridges and microwaves to work with.”

I really like this idea. I eat a lot of meals out of tupperware, and the old veggie curry and rice standby gets a little old. Plus, 100% of the proceeds go to the Valentine Fund, established by PATA in 1987 to provide financial assistance to members of the theater community during “times of medical or personal emergency.” The book is $25 through the website and includes over 60 recipes. Support your local theater artists. Hit PATA’s website for ordering info.