"My Artichoke Heart" by Naïma Kristel Phillips and "What The Sparrow Said" by Danny Mitarotondo (double bill). Running time: 40 minutes. $15. (world premieres of both plays) www.theaterforthenewcity.net or www.dreamupfestival.org 212-254-1109  "My Artichoke Heart" had a workshop performance at Columbia University under the guidance of Anne Bogart.   The play is the journey of a matriarchal elder, Karina, through her memories, fears, hopes and internal struggle that flash before her eyes moments before her death. It is an investigation into the ingredients that make up a person's life and determine the legacy they will leave behind. Struggling with her isolation, and a fading sense of memory, Karina calls upon the help of transitional spirits to fill the gaps of missing family members and unresolved memories. These transitional spirits take on the forms of Karina's family members and friends to aid her in ensuring that her loved ones will be taken care of once she is gone. They ease her passage to death by peeling off the layers of her life until she is left with only heart. This play is the product of an international ensemble made up of a Canadian playwright, an American director, and an international ensemble including actors from Chile, France, the Philippines, Taiwan, and across the United States. Cast: Rafael Benoit, Sarah Eismann, Eddie Jackson, Wei-Yi Lin, Natalia Miranda-Guzmán, Jensen Olaya, Marine Sialelli & Blaze Mancillas. This play is part of the "Dream Up Festival"; a theater festival that takes place at the Theater for the New City (TNC) from August 8 to September 5, 2010.