T h e C a p e F e a r ’ s A lt e r n at i v e V o i c e f o r 3 5 Y e a r s !
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First Day Hike Start the New Year off by appreciating what nature offers all year-round. The First Day Hike in Carolina Beach State Park (1010 State Park Rd.) meets on New Year’s Day at 2 p.m. at the marina trail head parking lot for a 2-mile hike to Sugarloaf Dune. Tip: Wear good hiking shoes and check the weather forecast to dress accordingly. Reservations are required. Call 910-458-8206 for more information about the hike or to register for the hike.
HELLO 2019!
Whether looking to celebrate the new year with live music (pgs. 8-13), a night of theatre and ABBA (pg. 16), fancy galas, multi-course dinners, or early celebrations (pgs. 36-37), this week’s issue of encore highlights several ways to welcome 2019, while we also reflect on 2018 and our favorite shows, music and food. Also, this is a two-week edition, as encore offices close through Jan. 2 for the holidays. We wish you and yours the happiest of holidays! Thanks for reading!
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MUSIC>> Cheyenne Champion and her family band of Friendly Fire are rockin’ in the new year at Burnt Mill Creek for a special show, during which Champion will bust out her saxophone. Courtesy photo
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EDITORIAL>
PG. 8
Editor-in-Chief:
Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com
Assistant Editor:
<<THEATRE
PG. 16
Fanny Slater dishes on her favorite dishes from 2018, a list that includes Shark Bar and Kitchen’s Yellowfin Tuna Wrap (right), Winter Gnudi from Pinpoint, Rebellion’s Rebel Yell, and more. Photo by Tom Dorgan
Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com
‘Mamma Mia!’ is finally making its way to the Port City—ABBA earworms and all—just in time to say farwell to 2018 with a special NYE showing and Greek-island-getaway-themed gala at Thalian Hall, downtown. Photo by Erik Maasch Photography
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Megan Henry // megan@encorepub.com John Hitt // john@encorepub.com Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com Published on Wednesday by HP Media. Opinions of contributing writers are not the opinions of encore.
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INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • News of the Weird, pg. 6 Music, pgs. 8-13 • Art, pgs. 14-15 • Theatre, pgs. 16-17 • Film, pg. 19 • Dining, pgs. 20-34 Extra, pgs. 36-37 • Crossword, pg. 49 • Calendar, pgs. 40-55 2 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
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NEWS>>LIVE LOCAL
LIVE LOCAL, LIVE SMALL:
Counting down Gwenyfar’s top five lessons BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER
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018 has been such a crazy year; I am not certain I can isolate a top 10 for Live Local. As I have discussed before, right now the connotations of words have taken on a different significance than they had when I began writing the column more than a decade ago. So many of its original ideals are in flux. While trying to figure out how to navigate the changes, I largely have been hunkered down and working on keeping home and family together, to move forward the projects that have dominated the last few years of my life. I think I can come up with five, but 10? I don’t know if this is a top 10 year. The issues we have tackled are bigger than just one year. 1. Hurricane Florence. Really, the impact of the storm and her little brother, Michael, just keeps rolling in. Florence made landfall the week of September 10. She was an incredibly slow-moving storm and just beat ILM relentlessly. To put it in perspective: For the week leading up to her landfall, it was a washout; Everybody was too busy preparing for the storm or evacuating, so a whole week of business was lost. Then came the storm that wouldn’t end, leading to another two to three weeks of lost business. We were all merely trying to get power restored and stabilize ourselves to start life again. The school year, too, completely was derailed. Basically, September and the first half of October were, at best, a total loss. Florence was a fatal storm, people were killed directly and even more people have been rendered homeless—or with partial-housing since. So, from a business side, well, what we’re seeing is many people can’t spend money on anything not essential. The recovery process of trying to get citizens back into their homes, businesses open and running at full speed, and everyone ably taking care of expenses is a tough recovery process—and it’s ongoing today.
WATER CRISIS AND ELECTIONS: NC Senate-elect Harper Peterson advises citizens to stay after a press conference about the GenX water crisis to start a citizens’ caucus, concerning the toxic chemicals from Chemours being dumped into the Cape Fear River. Photo by Emily Wilson
4 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
2. Water. The ongoing water crisis in our area is still unresolved. The results of the GenX testing on locals have
been released and the disclosure that we have additional contaminates in our water should not come as a surprise, yet somehow it still does. The overflowing of the hog lagoons and coal ash pits into the Cape Fear River (our water supply) continues to boggle the mind. These are not new developments, so why is it that we still can’t seem to get our drinking water protected? We bathe in it, brush our teeth with it, cook with it and serve it to our children and pets. Let us hope that 2019 sees a resolution to this issue. 3. The election. 2018 was an election year—and what an election! We got new members on the New Hanover County School Board, hopefully, just in time for redistricting. Neighborhood schools— a.k.a. the re-segregation of our school system—clearly do not serve all students of New Hanover County equally. Also, we had one of the more exciting races result in a recount: Harper Peterson vs. Michael Lee for the NC State Senate seat. In addition, we had several amendments to the NC State Constitution on our ballot. Two of the measures—which sought to limit the governor’s powers— were part of an ongoing conflict between
the legislature and executive branch of NC. Luckily, the two provisions did not pass. Sadly, however, the Voter ID Amendment, requiring a picture ID to vote, did. The irony is the current voter-fraud investigation in the state centers on absentee ballots—not voter IDs. The current accusations, according the Raleigh News and Observer, center around a political operative who allegedly would pay people $225 in cash when they brought him 20 absentee ballots that had been picked up from voters in Bladen County. Imagine there are stacks of four or five ballots out there that never made it in because collectors couldn’t get to the number 20 mark to collect their reward. Unsealed, unsigned absentee ballots handed over to a paid political operative is just about as questionable as it gets for a democratic election. 4. Film industry. On a slightly happier topic, we started to see the first glimmers of hope for a returning film industry. The mass exodus to Atlanta back in 2014 was a result of the efforts of the McCrory administration. The feature film “Words on Bathroom Walls” filmed here over the
summer, and “Reprisal,” a pilot for Hulu and A&E, filmed in the fall. Then, just before the holidays, we saw the beginning the TV show “Swamp Thing” shoot. And it’s scheduled to be here through June. In my small business, filming projects have been a lifesaver this year. Between rentals to “Words on Bathroom Walls” and “Reprisal,” we were able to pay several large bills. We still are not back to the point of funding an entire staff position from film industry revenue, which is what we did annually prior to McCrory decimating one of the cleanest and most profitable industries in the state. However, I have hopes we and numerous other small businesses across the region will continue to see the direct benefits of having film a part of our economy once again. Already Capt. John Wolfe (also an encore writer) has had a marvelous day running a boat on Greenfield Lake for the filming of “Swamp Thing”—and he is but one among many to see much needed film money before the holidays. 5. Losses. This has been a year of a lot of transition for downtown. We lost two icons: Bob Jenkins, the founder of Wilmington Adventure Walking Tours and one
of our historic preservation pioneers. We also lost Mr. Daughtry, the founder of Old Books on Front (full disclosure: my family-run bookstore). Rather suddenly and shockingly, Ryan Lee Burris, a longtime political advocate for equality for all people in North Carolina, also passed away. It has been a time of loss, change and transition. At the solstice this year I tried to meditate on what lessons they passed into my life. Real change takes long-term action and work. It doesn’t happen overnight. Our fellow man is our brother—our responsibility. Yelling does not win people to an argument. Quiet, sustained discussion, backed up with real actions, however, does. Those are the lessons all three men taught me. None are easy to implement, but all are worth striving toward. 2019 is upon us—mere days away. I feel like I barely have had a chance to digest 2018. But it has given me a lot to think about, to learn from and to grow from. May we all have strength as we move through the storm recovery and resolve our water issues in 2019.
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music led to a fatality on December 14, reported the Arizona Republic. Officers responded to a call of shots fired at an apartment complex, where Sheldon Sturgill, 41, told them he shot his roommate after an argument and fistfight over the type of music they were listening to. Sturgill and his roommate had been drinking shots and beer before the altercation. He was held on suspicion of second-degree murder. It is unclear what the offensive music choice was.
SPECIAL DELIVERY
Staff at the Martin County (Florida) Correctional Institute spied some suspicious activity on the morning of December 16. Around 1:30 a.m., a drone was spotted hovering over an inmate housing center, while at the same time, a black pickup truck rolled slowly in front of the center. The Tampa Bay Times reported officers stopped the truck and questioned Concetta Didiano, 22, and her mother, Cassanra Kerr, 40, who said they had driven the 200 miles from their home in Tampa so Didiano could learn how to drive the truck. But Kerr’s husband is an inmate at the facility, and after a drone and a package of contraband -- tobacco and mobile phones -- turned up near the front gate of the prison, Kerr came clean: “I did it. The remote and iPad are in the backseat.” Both Didiano and Kerr have been charged with introducing contraband into a correctional center.
ANGER MISMANAGEMENT
H.W. Taylor III, 51, of Chatfield, Texas, was charged December 12 with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after a parking dispute escalated outside a Domino’s pizza shop in Jerrell. Determined to park his tractor-trailer in a restricted area, reported the Austin American-Statesman, Taylor removed a chain blocking the area and parked his truck there, even as store employees told him not to. Williamson County sheriff’s deputies were called after Taylor pointed a gun at the chest of one the employees and then shot a 9mm round into the ground nearby, causing a small piece of the bullet to strike the employee in the ear. Having lost his appetite for pizza, Taylor returned to his truck and drove away, but officers soon caught up to him in another county. The Domino’s worker had a small cut to his ear and is expected to survive. In Mesa, Arizona, diverging tastes in
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ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
Havana, Cuba, resident Pepe Casanas, 78, has discovered a tried-and-true way to treat his rheumatism pain: Once a month for the last 10 years, Casanas seeks out a blue scorpion, which is endemic to Cuba, and lets it sting him. “I put the scorpion where I feel pain,” Casanas told Reuters. After the sting, “It hurts for a while, but then it calms and goes and I don’t have anymore pain.” In fact, researchers have confirmed that the scorpion’s venom has anti-inflammatory and pain relief effects. It may even delay cancer growth in some patients. A Cuban pharmaceutical company has been selling a homeopathic pain remedy called Vidatox, made from the scorpion venom, but Casanas, a former tobacco farmer, takes the simpler route. He sometimes keeps a scorpion under his straw hat for luck, where he says it likes the shade and humidity.
FOUL FETISH
The Daily Mail reported on December 14 that a Chinese man identified only as Peng, 37, was hospitalized in Zhangzhou, Fujian province, after he complained of a cough and chest pains. As doctors examined him, Peng admitted that he is “addicted to smelling his socks that he had been wearing.” The pain in his chest, it turns out, was a fungal infection he had inhaled from his socks. While Peng is expected to make a full recovery, other people ‘fessed up on Chinese social media that they have the same habit: “The reason I smell my socks is to know if I can continue wearing them the next day!” one commenter said. Another pledged to “wash my socks every day now.”
CREATIVE CURRENCY
Maybe it was the Triple Breakfast Stacks McGriddles that lured Anthony Andrew Gallagher, 23, to the drive-thru lane at a Port St. Lucie, Florida, McDonald’s to satisfy his hungries on the morning of December 16. But when it came time to pay, the Associated Press reported, Gallagher offered the dude in the window a bag of weed instead of cold, hard cash. The worker declined the payment, and Gallagher drove away, returning a while later. McDonald’s staff called police after the first attempt, and Gallagher was apprehended for marijuana possession and driving under the influence.
AWESOME!
Retired hospitality executive Rick Antosh, 66, of Edgewater, New Jersey, was enjoying a plate of oysters at Grand Cen-
tral’s Oyster Bar in New York City when he felt something hard in his mouth. “I just all of a sudden felt something like a tooth or a filling, and it’s terrifying,” Antosh told PIX11 News. But when he looked at it, he realized it was a pearl. Antosh called over the floor manager to ask how often such a discovery happens and was told he’d never heard of it before. Antosh has not had the pearl appraised, but early estimates say it could be worth $2,000 to $4,000.
UNUSUAL TASTES
Karen Kaheni, 42, of Barnsley, South Yorkshire, England, is a heavy smoker, puffing on 60 to 80 cigarettes a day. But as she watches TV in the evening, Kaheni also eats eight cigarette butts. And, as a side dish, she eats about 9 ounces of chalk every week. Her odd addictions are related to Pica, she told the Mirror, a condition that involves eating things that aren’t really food. “I have no idea what triggered it,” she said. “It isn’t so much the taste of the cigarette butts or the chalk that I like -- it’s more the texture and the crunch.” When she runs out of either item, “I get quite agitated and my mouth begins to water.” Kaheni hasn’t consulted a doctor about her addiction, claiming she is too embarrassed, but she has discovered a Facebook page for others who suffer from Pica: “It makes me feel like less of a weirdo -- less like I’m going mad,” Kaheni said.
REDNECK CHRONICLES
Call it a dangerous case of mistaken identity: The Helena (Montana) Independent Record reported that a 27-year-old man was shot at multiple times on December 16 after being mistaken for Big Foot. The unidentified man told police he was setting up targets for shooting on federal land when bullets struck the ground nearby. He ran for cover, then confronted the shooter, who said the first man “was not wearing orange and thought he was Big Foot,” said Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton. The cryptid impersonator described the shooter’s vehicle to police but didn’t want to press charges, asking only that the shooter be lectured about safe shooting.
WAIT, WHAT?
Jim Alexander, 41, and Betina Bradshaw, 54, of Torquay, Devon, England, are planning a Christmas feast for family and friends. On the menu: deer, pheasant, rabbits, badgers ... all roadkill. Alexander, a trained butcher, has collected nearly 50 fresh animal corpses over the past year. “I know people will think it’s unusual, but really it just makes sense,” Alexander told Metro News. Bradshaw says her family refers to him as a serial killer, but he has gradually won her over to the idea of eating roadkill. “The first few times he brought a deer home he told me it was for the dog. ... Obviously, you turn your nose up a bit at the start, but now it doesn’t bother me at all,” she said. Alexander said his odd collecting habits have drawn the attention of police, but “once they realize I’m doing nothing wrong, they are fine, and one even helped me lift an animal into the van,” he said.
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 7
ARTS>>MUSIC
FIRE IN THE SAX!
Cheyenne Champion and Friendly Fire ring in 2019 at Burnt Mill Creek BY: SHANNON GENTRY
W
hile many families are spending the holidays knee-deep in eggnog and obliterated wrapping paper, Cheyenne Champion and her musical clan of Friendly Fire plan to spend Christmas break practicing for their New Year’s Eve show at Burnt Mill Creek. They have new material to add to their set, as well as guest player Chris Tuttle (keyboard) joining them for the show and forthcoming studio time in 2019. “A couple originals to look out for [on NYE] are ‘Black and White’ and ‘Buzzy Bee,’” Champion notes. She and the band, made up of Lloyd Snider, Matthew and Jack Marion, take pride in their robust collection of original music, written collaboratively. Rounding out Friendly Fire as of late is Michael Vindell, who recently joined as their second drummer. He adds to their improvisational jams, which continuously expand with unique twists and turns. “This elevates our sound and keeps spirits very high throughout our show,” Champion tells. “I will be playing the saxophone throughout the night, too. One is an original called ‘Company’ I wrote early this year about independence.” Champion can often be found wrapping her soulful vocals around her acoustic guitar, too. Her sound and style easily ebb and flow between bluesy roots and rockin’ dance numbers. Champion and company have been making rounds throughout Wilmington’s music scene as of late, from Bottega’s singer-songwriters’ circle on Wednesdays to larger stages at Brooklyn Arts Center and Greenfield Lake. They’ve also touched down in 2018’s local and regional festival circuit, including Wilmington’s Azalea Festival and Virginia’s High Country Bus Fest. “[High Country was] essentially a Volkswagen campout over the course of a week on a river,” Champion quips. “We were also to play Front Porch Fest in Spirit Haven, Virginia; however, we were rained out of that one.” As well, Champion is enrolled at UNCW’s education program. encore caught up with the singer-songwriter and multiinstrumentalist to learn more about her
music and what’s to come in 2019. encore (e): Are you studying music education at UNCW? Cheyenne Champion (CC): I am currently enrolled in Watson College of Education at UNCW for elementary education. I have changed route, as I have found a normal inclusion job is more accessible for me to personally spread the arts to all students. e: How does your education play into performances/work and vice versa? CC: Despite a lack of arts funding in public schools, I plan on integrating musical arts into the education system to the best of my ability. Children respond to arts, and it fuels their inspiration for other curriculum. It is something I am very passionate about. After college, I plan on continuing to play music and living as an active member in education, using music to uplift children and adults alike, fueling their passions. e: Tell our readers a little more about yourself as a musician—how long you’ve been singing, songwriting, playing guitar/sax, and how you’ve grown as an artist in Wilmington’s music scene/ community. CC: I began playing music in sixth grade on the saxophone. It is my favorite instrument, and I still play it in Friendly Fire. I received my first guitar at 14 and wrote many songs before moving to Wilmington. After my move, I began attending local openmic nights at Bottega and Grinder’s Cafe. I quickly was offered the position of openmic host at Grinders (currently relocating due to hurricane damage).
SINGIN’ IN THE NEW YEAR: Cheyenne Champion and her family band of Friendly Fire plan an electric show at Burnt Mill for NYE. Courtesy photo
ing forward with the band and positively throughout the new year. I also plan on finishing school and doing my best to get the most out of going to college, as many I have had so many opportunities to play people do not receive this privilege. shows for organizations, such as the Unite: Do you have plans to enter the reed Way and Jam For the Kids at the Brook- cording studio in the new year? lyn Arts Center and Greenfield Lake. My CC: We do! I am grateful to have had time on the music scene in Wilmington has the opportunity to visit Steve Greenwell taught me I can use music to uplift and supthis summer in New Jersey to record some port local communities and good causes. solo songs. Steve is a producer for platiMy favorite part is having the opportunity num album earning Joss Stone, among to meet amazing musicians and supporters others. He has agreed to come out to North along the way! Carolina and record with us in January. e: Have any personal or professional While an album is in our sights, we may resolutions for 2019? do a three-song EP with Steve as a step in CC: This is always an exciting question. the right direction. As previously stated, we This year one of my focuses is on my quest also are excited to have Chris Tuttle help to be a better saxophone player (learning develop our studio sound, as he has toured never stops!). I hope to play more festivals with artists such as Emmylou Harris, Jewel with my family and keep momentum mov- and Big & Rich, among others.
8 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
e: Anything else to come in 2019? CC: We will be playing [two] days at the Azalea Festival [April 3-7] this time around in 2019, one of which will be on the Beer Garden Stage. We also will be playing the Women’s March [in Wilmington on January 26] to show a supportive hand in the community to help spread equality for all. We hope to see everyone out supporting local music at Burnt Mill Creek to ring in the New Year the best way we know how!
DETAILS:
Cheyenne Champion and Friendly Fire
December 31, 9:45 p.m. Burnt Mill Creek Billiards & Wine Bar 2101 Market St., Unit 7 Free Find more NYE events, concerts and such on pages 36-37, as well as online on our calendar at encorepub.com
ARTS>>MUSIC
2018 SOUNDUP ROUNDUP:
A look back at the best we saw and heard in ILM
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BY: SHANNON GENTRY & SHEA CARVER
very year Wilmington’s music scene seems to grow by leaps and bounds, with locals amping up shows, and more national and international artists having places to stop in, thanks to Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre, Wilson Center, Kenan Auditorium, and Brooklyn Arts Center booking more acts. With the Northside Amphitheatre slated for downtown in 2020, the 6,780-seated venue will be the largest in southeastern NC, meaning even more concerts are headed through the 28401. Until then, let’s take a look back at our favorites from 2018.
Rhiannon Giddens
The Greensboro, NC, folk singer and MacArthur Grant recipient is well-known for leading the Carolina Chocolate Drops and making an indelible mark on preserving African-American folk music, especially in the South. A trained opera singer and GRAMMY Award winner, she is currently working with local New York Times writer John Jeremiah Sullivan on a musical surrounding the events of the only coup d’etat in US history: The Wilmington 1898 Riots. ILM got a first look at their research in November during a Cucalorus Stage event, wherein they spoke to audiences about two of 1898’s major players, Alex and Carrie Manley (the latter of whom was also a trained and well-known opera singer in the South at the turn of the 20th century). Giddens, Sullivan and Clyde Edgerton played “The Sounds of 1898” to show their works-in-progress for the perfect mergence of art and history in what could become a Broadway musical (think of “Hamilton” fame for comparison)—and we got to see it here, in the very theatre affected by the riots, Thalian Hall, first. Giddens also headlined a summer concert for UNCW’s Lumina Arts Festival and hosted a private fundrasier with Sullivan in the spring for Friends School of Wilmington. She brings vitality, historical impact and talent galore to every octave she sings, violin she plays, and banjo she picks. We would be so lucky to have her come back even once in 2019.
Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings
I’ve been waiting a while for these Americana troubadours to come through our port city. Though they were slated to do so in 2011, as part of Winoca Fest, Hurricane Irene put a stop to it and canceled the whole shebang. Finally, seven years later, they made their way to Brooklyn Arts Center—and it was every bit worth the wait. The old church provided the perfect acoustics to hear Welch’s enamoring voice in “Look at Miss Ohio,” “Orphan Girl” and
“Red Clay Halo,” while Rawlings slayed guitar solos aplenty, especially on one of the most rock-heavy acoustic songs ever recorded, “Revelator.” Here’s to hoping we won’t have to keep traveling to see them for another seven years, and their return to ILM will be much sooner than later. Seriously.
Lukas Nelson’s voice and talent is indicative of his lineage, but it’s multiplied with sex appeal and swagger all his own. He came to Wilmington twice in 2018: He rocked GLA over the summer with his brother, Micah, who opened the show with his solo project Particle Kid. Nelson then returned to the Port City for a special #OverFlo hurricane relief concert in October, from which 100 percent of the proceeds, equaling over $66,000, went to Nourish NC, Salvation Army of Cape Fear, Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC at Wilmington, and other area nonprofits.
Chris Isaak
Who knew Chris Isaak was Don Draper in the flesh—only with humor instead of whiskey? Isaak visited the Wilson Center at the end of summer, sequin suits and multiple guitars included, to showcase his smoky vocals and dashing looks. He’s still as appealing in 2018 as he was in 1996 when he released the sultry “Wicked Game” video with Helena Christensen. His ILM show came with all the hits (“Baby Did a Bad Thing,” “Somebody’s Cryin’,” “San Francisco Days”) and covers perfectly suited to his vocal style, including Orbison’s “Pretty Woman,” Cash’s “Ring of Fire,” and Elvis’ “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Most surprising, however, was the amount of audience interaction Isaak endured, often walking around the auditorium and crooning directly to the crowd, as well as telling jokes between songs. He even called out an audience member’s graciousness, with whom Isaak met earlier in the day while eating at downtown’s Copper Penny—a sound guy who bought the musician’s lunch. In return, Isaak thanked him publicly at the show. Our takeaway: Isaak should have his own Vegas residency. He is a down-to-earth (hot) charmer we could listen to (and watch) all day.
Brian Wilson
In July the one-and-only Brian Wilson came to Wilmington with a backing band—including Beach Boys’ Al Jardine joining him on vocals and guitar—to perform the entirety of his groundbreaking 1966 release, “Pet Sounds.” Wilson and the band played the entire album from start to finish, to an almost sleepy audience (with the exception of some music lovers who truly were in awe of what they were seeing and hearing). Wilson’s eyes were aglow in the brilliancy of playing 13 songs from the album, as he tickled the keys of his piano—especially lovely during the kaleidoscopic soundscape of “Sloop John B.” Yet, those same eyes went a little dim when the audience went crazy for the Beach Boys’ earlier music, “Help Me Rhonda,” “Good Vibrations” and “Surfin’ USA.” It’s a good metaphor for Wilson’s life in music: The best of the best oftentimes goes underappreciated with audiences, while the pop hits get the most gratification. C’est la vie.
THE WORLD WAS ON FIRE... Chris Isaak’s Wilson Center performance in September set the stage afire and left the audience enthralled by song and laughter. Photo by Shea Carver
The Paper Stars
So they’re my favorite local band partly because I adore blues and rock, and when the combination of both supersedes expectations, it’s just mind-blowing. Enter The Paper Stars. Made up of Tres Altman, Randy McQuay, Kevin Rhodes, and Coleman Corzine, the group offers sounds rooted in Americana, funk and soul. They bend genres flawlessly, missing nary a note or pitch or an emotion, for that matter, as the instrumentals precisely interplay with Altman’s reverent punch of lyrical beauty. More so, the band plays infrequently in town, so when they do, it’s quite a masterful night out in music. 2018 welcomed them to the stage a handful of times, including Azalea Fest weekend at Palate, at Hell’s Kitchen for Next2Rock Battle of the Bands (which they won), hosted by 94.5 Hawk in June, and at Waterline Brewery in November. They also released in 2018 their EP “Aletheia” and a new holiday tune, “Christmas Time Again,” which can be heard on their Bandcamp page. Be on the lookout for their 2019 dates, and mark immediately “must attend.” —Shea Carver
Brandi Carlile
Mother’s Day weekend was one for the books this year and several mamas chose to kick it off with Brandi Carlile at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. Carlile’s prolific songwriting is deeply rooted in motherhood. She played from her latest album, “By the Way, I Forgive You” (February 2018), which quite possibly is the best showcase of her soulful and raw voice. From it we heard a favorite single “The Joke” and, of course, “The Mother.”
Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real
The Revivalists, with J. Roddy Walston and the Business
Here’s a two-for-one on our list: J Roddy Walston opened the June Revivalists show, and, y’all, hardly anyone stopped to take a breath from the first chord played. Folks might remember J. Roddy’s 2014 hit “Take It As It Comes” or last year’s album “Destroyers of the Soft Life”— we heard both at GLA. The Revivalists followed with a raucous showing of their horn-infused funky rock show.
Travis Shallow
Travis Shallow has had one helluva year since releasing “The Great Divide” (October 2017) with his band The Deep End. It came a couple of years after getting sober and experiencing life and music in a whole new way. There’s not a specific show in mind from 2018 that stands out as much as many combined. He had a steller opening for Marcus King Band last August and added to the songwriter showcase at Bourgie Nights for last week’s holiday concert. Shallow played often with his band, as a solo act, and as a duo with Bob Russell throughout ILM. 2019 looks to be another busy year, as he tours as a duo with Russell to support a live record with an early 2019 release. Shallow also will head back into the studio for another album, with line-up to be determined.
Mavis Staples
The marvelous Mavis Staples came on October 21 to lift our spirits, hearts and souls after a long few weeks post-Hurricane Florence. The civil rights activist and American rhythm and blues icon took us to church with songs from her gospel catalog; shared messages of unity and hope from 2017’s “If All I Was Was Black” (another collaboration with Jeff Tweedy); and got down and dirty with a cover of Talking Heads’ “Slippery People.” —Shannon Gentry
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 9
THURSDAY
$2.50 PBR 16oz cans $3.50 Sam Seasonal and Hoppyum IPA draft $5 Redbull and Vodka 1/2 price wings Live music from Josh Solomon
100 S. FRONT ST. 910-251-1832 LIVE MUSIC in the courtyard 7 days a week
FRIDAY
MONDAY
$2.75 Michelob Ultra $3.25 Stella $4.50 Lunazul Tequila All Floors open
TUESDAY
SATURDAY
$2 Select Domestic • $3 Draft $4 Flavored Bombs 1/2 Price Apps Live Music from Tony and Adam $3 Fat Tire & Voo Doo $5 Jameson • $2 Tacos Pub Trivia on Tuesday Live music from Rebekah Todd
$3 Miller Lite $4 Deep Eddy Lemon Drop shots $5 Deep Eddy Grapefruit and Soda All floors open
$2.75 Miller Lite • $4 Wells, 1/2 price bottles of wine $2 off a dozen oysters Live music from Jeremy Norris
$3 Corona/ Corona lt • $4 Mimosa $4 Bloody Mary Live music from L-Shape Lot duo 3pm and Clay Crotts 8pm
WEDNESDAY
A PREVIEW OF EVENTS ACROSS TOWN THIS WEEK
THE SOUNDBOARD
SUNDAY
1423 S. 3rd St. DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON (910) 763-1607 Tuesday __________________________________________
KARAOKE
w/DJ Damo, 9PM
2 KILLIANS • $400 MAGNERS
$ 50
Thursday ________________________________________
TRIVIA
8:00 P.M. • PRIZES! • $250 YUENGLING DRAFT $ 50 3 FIREBALL SHOTS
Friday & Saturday __________________________
LIVE MUSIC 2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS
$ 00
Sunday ___________________________________________
BREAKFAST BUFFET 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. • $4 MIMOSA’S
FOLK TRIO: Made up of Cyrus siblings Chuck and Morgan and singer-songwriter Cara Schauble, the Uncommon Ground Trio is the latest addition to Wilmington’s folk scene. They’ll play next on December 28, 10 p.m., at Duck n Dive in downtown Wilmington. Courtesy photo
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26 $3.75 Red Oak Draft $4 Wells 65 Wings, 4-7pm $3.75 Sweetwaters $4.50 Absolute Lemonade
$3.75 Hay Bale Ale
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
Benny Hill Smooth Jazz (7pm; Free) $3.50 Pint of the Day $4 Fire Ball $5 Mimosas $5 Car Bombs
$3.75 Sweet Josie $4 Margaritas
Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)
$5 Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas *Drink Specials run all day
—Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavillion Place
Singer-Songwriter Circle/Open Mic (9pm; Free) —Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.
Team Trivia (7pm; Free)
—Slice of Life, 125 Market St.; 910-251-9444
HOW TO SUBMIT A LISTING:
Music Bingo at Bill’s (7pm; Free)
—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.
Wine Down Wednesday & Karaoke (8pm; Free)
—Watermans Brewing, 1610 Pavilion Place
—Bills Front Porch, 4328 Market St. —Ibiza Nightclub Wilmington, 118 Market St.
Music Bingo at The Harp (7:30pm; Free) —The Harp, 1423 S 3rd St.
Open Mic (6pm; Free)
—Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 Oleander Dr.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27
Johanna Winkel (6pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)
Robbie Berry (7pm; Free; Acoustic) Open Mic Comedy (7pm; $0-$3)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.;
Trivia from Hell’s (7:30pm; Free)
—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-763-4133
FireDrums & Tarot Thursdays (8pm; Free)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
Max Levy and the Hawaiian Shirts (6pm; Free; Rock)
All Soundboard listings must be entered onto our online calendar, powered by SpinGo, each Wednesday, by 5 p.m., for consideration in the following week’s entertainment calendar. All online listings generate the print listings, as well as encore’s new app, encore Go. Venues are responsible for notifying encore of any changes, removals or additions to their weekly schedules. 10 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
—Rucker John’s, 5564 Carolina Beach Rd.
Music Trivia (9pm; Free)
—KGB ILM, 16 Princess St.
Two Picky Guys (6:30pm; Free; Bluegrass) —Bills Front Porch, 4328 Market St.
Throwback Thursday Karaoke w/ DJ Damo (8pm; Free)
—Reggie’s 42nd St. Tavern, 1415 S 42nd St.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28
Jazz Night with James Jarvis (8pm; Free)
—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.
Karaoke with DJ Paul (9pm; Free)
—Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.; 910-251-1832
Live Music: Access 29 (9pm; Free)
—Pour Taproom, 201 North Front St.
Blarney Brogues (9pm; Free; Irish)
—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.; 910-399-2796
Wills Maxwell (7pm; $13; Comedy)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
Band/ Mike Gossin (9:30pm; Free)
—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-763-4133
Vintage Pistol with Sid Kingsley (10pm; Cover TBD; Rock) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
Jarrett Raymond (10pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)
—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040
Uncommon Ground Trio (10pm; Free) —Duck n Dive, 114 Dock St.
Adam Carswell (7pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.
Billy Raim (9:30pm; $13; Comedy)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
CRUNKED BASS: Crunk Witch is the nerdy bass-music duo of Brandon Miles and Hannah Collen. Crunk Witch released their sef-titled album in 2018 and will play at the Juggling Gypsy on January 8. Courtesy photo
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29 Irish Traditional Session (2pm; Free)
—The Dubliner Irish Pub, 1756 Carolina Beach Rd.
Tyler Mckaig (2pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)
—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.
Mark Sinnis & 825 (8pm; Fre; Western Country) —Fermental, 7250 Market St.; 910-821-0362
Karaoke with DJ Mic (9pm; Free)
—Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.; 910-251-1832
The Independents w/ Good Good Grief/ Bastard Brigade (9pm; $10; Funk) —Reggie’s 42nd St. Tavern, 1415 S 42nd St.
Rocky Pleasant (9pm; Free)
—Pour Taproom, 201 N. Front St.
The Moon Unit w/ Tennis Elbow (10pm; $5; Dance, Jam) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
Amani Smith & The Give Thanks Band (10pm; Free; Reggae)
XrayVision CultureFest (10:30pm; Cover TBD) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.
Ian Davis and The Carolina Sound (6:30pm; $10) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.
Jenny Pearson (8pm; Free; Alt, Classic Rock) —The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.
Lemetrius (9pm; Free; Piano)
—Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.
Belly Dance Showcase (9pm; Free)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
Matt Coghlan (7pm, 9:30pm; $17; Comedy)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30
Books, Beer & Jazz Piano (3pm; Free)
—Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.; 910-76-BOOKS
Bluegrass Jam (6pm; Free)
Ave N.; 910-707-0533
—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
Early Irish New Year’s (7pm; Free)
NYE Karaoke Party (10pm; Free)
Rosebud Baker (7pm, 9:30pm; $13; Comedy)
Just Yesterday (10pm; Free)
Reggae Rocking NYE Party w/ Jahson & the Natty Vibes (8pm; $15-$25)
Soul-R-Fusion (7pm; Free)
NYE 2018: Onward, Soldiers w/ Driskill & Chris Frisina (8pm; $10)
—The Dubliner Irish Pub, 1756 Carolina Beach Rd.
—Hoplite Pub, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd. —Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
—Lazy Pirate, 1801 Canal Dr.
Karaoke w/ Party Gras (7pm; Free)
—Hoplite Pub, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.
Retro Disco with The Beehive Blondes (8pm; $25)
—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040
—Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane —Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.
New Year’s Eve With Cosmic Groove Lizards (9pm; Free)
Brown Dirt Cowboys (7pm; Free; Pop-Rock Covers)
—Bluewater Waterfront Grill, 4 Marina St.
Pre-New Year’s Eve Latin Dance Party (10:30pm; $10)
Sunday School Underground (8pm; Free)
—Islands Fresh-Mex Grill, 260 Racine Dr.
Brian Piccolo (7pm; $13; Comedy)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
Ring in the New Year with Live Music (9pm; $20)
Open Mic (7:30pm; Free)
—Broomtail Craft Brewery, 6404 Amsterdam Way
Music Bingo (8pm; Free)
—The Brewer’s Kettle, 4718 Oleander Dr.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2 Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)
New Years Eve 2019 DJ Party (9:30pm; $20)
—Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 Oleander Dr.
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St; 910-763-2223
ONDAY, DECEMBER 31
—Dig and Dive, 3525 Lancelot Ln.
—SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach
DJ Elementary (10pm; Cover TBD)
New Year’s Eve Bash Featuring Paperwork (9:30pm; Free; Rock)
—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-763-4133
NYE Bash with Machine Gun (6pm; $20; Rock)
Staghorn Starlings (9:30pm; Free)
‘Any Shade’ of Masquerade Party w/Striking Copper (8pm; Free)
Into The Fog featuring Will Maxwell (10pm; Free; Americana)
—Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.
—Fermental, 7250 Market St.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 1
—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.
—Duck n Dive, 114 Dock St.
—Katy’s Grill And Bar, 1054 S College Rd.
—Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.
—Satellite Bar and Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.
—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040
—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
Open Mic (6pm; Free)
Benny Hill Smooth Jazz (7pm; Free)
—Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavillion Place Voodoo Visionary (10pm; $8-$10; Tribute to Singer-Songwriter Circle/Open Mic (9pm; Free) Prince and Stevie Wonder) encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 11
—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.
Team Trivia (7pm; Free)
—Slice of Life, 125 Market St.; 910-251-9444
40 BEERS ON TAP
#TAPTUESDAY...THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK: $3 SELECT PINTS & TEAM TRIVIA
Music Bingo at Bill’s (7pm; Free)
—Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.
A Night of acoustic Music (9pm; Free)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
Dec. 28th: Acess 29 Dec. 29th: Rocky Pleasant Music Offering a variety of craft beer, ciders and wine
Wine Down Wednesday & Karaoke (8pm; Free) —Ibiza Nightclub Wilmington, 118 Market St.
Music Bingo at The Harp (7:30pm; Free) —The Harp, 1423 S 3rd St.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 3 Trivia from Hell’s (7:30pm; Free)
—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-763-4133
FireDrums & Tarot Thursdays (8pm; Free)
7324 Market Street • 910-821-8185 www.ogdentaproom.com OPEN 7 DAYS AWEEK
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
Throwback Thursday Karaoke w/ DJ Damo (8pm; Free)
—Reggie’s 42nd St. Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.
Darkside of Oz (6pm; Free)
—Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry St.
www.RuckerJohns.com VISIT WWW.RUCKERJOHNS.COM FOR
FRIDAY MONDAY DAILY SPECIALS, MUSIC & EVENTS Cosmopolitan $4 Select Appetizers 1/2 Off after MONDAY 5pm in bar and patio areas Sam Adams Seasonal DAY$3 Bottles Big Domestic22oz. Draft Domestic Beers $2 Draft ALL $5 Pizzas RJ’s Coffee $4.95 SATURDAY Peach Tea Shiner $6 TUESDAY TUESDAY Deschutes 1/2 Off SelectLIVE Bottles of Wine 22oz JAzz IN THE BARBlack Butte Porter $5 Absolute Dream $5 Bottles of Wine Half Price 22oz Weeping $ 50Willow Wit NC CraftAbsolut Bottles $3 Dream $5 • Pacifico Beer2 $5 WEDNESDAY 22oz Edward Teach Sessions WEDNESDAY 1/2 Off Nachos after 5pm IPA $5 in bar andMiller patio Light areas Pints $150 Coronoa/ $ 50 Domestic Pints $1.50Lite BottlesSUNDAY 2 Corona Flat Breads$4$6 after 5pm Corona/Corona Lt. $2.50 AllMargaritas Margaritas/Peach in bar and patio areas
Margaritas on the Rocks $4.50 Bloddy Mary $4 THURSDAY THURSDAY $ $ Appletinis 4, RJ’s Domestic PainkillerPints 5 $1.50 Truly Lime Spiked and $ 50 White Russians $5 2 Red Stripe Bottles Sparkling Water $3 $ 50 2 Fat Tire Bottles 5564 Carolina Beach Road 22oz. Bells Two Hearted IPA Draft $5 FRIDAY(910)-452-1212 Visit our website Keoke Coffee $4.95 Cosmos $4,www.RuckerJohns.com 007 $350 1/2 Off All Premium $ specials, music and for daily 3 Guinness Cansupcoming Red Wine Glasses events
FRIDAY, JANUARY 4
Jazz Night with James Jarvis (8pm; Free)
—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.;
Karaoke with DJ Paul (9pm; Free) • 16 NC brews on tap • 8 big screen TV’s • Sports packages
• Bar games • Free popcorn machine
Ch eers!
Trivia Night & FREE Wings Every Tuesday @ 9pm Sip & Spell Adult Spelling Bee Every Wednesday @ 9pm Free Hot Dog Station and Pot Luck Every Sunday 106 N 2nd Street
(Located next to 2nd Street parking deck) Hours of operation: Mon. - Fri. 2:00pm-2:00am Sat. & Sun. noon-2:00 am
Island Sunsets $5 SATURDAY Baybreeze/Seabreeze $4 22oz. Blue Moon Draft $3 Select Domestic Bottles $2 SUNDAY Bloody Marys $4, Domestic Pints $150 Hurricanes $5
FEATURE YOUR LIVE MUSIC, FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS 5564 Carolina Beach Road, (910) 452-1212
(as little as $29 a week!)
Call 791-0688 Deadline every Thurs., noon!
—Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.; 910-251-1832
Into the Fog (10pm; Cover TBD; Americana)
—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040
Black Mantis (9pm; Cover TBD)
—Reggie’s 42nd St. Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.
Pistol Hill (9pm; Free)
—Goat & Compass, 710 N 4th St.
Metal Hangover (7pm; Cover TBD)
—The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.
Joshua Ward (7pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavillion Place
Ramy Youssef (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
The Beau Rikkis (9pm; Free)
—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.; 910-399-2796
SATURDAY, JANUARY 5
Irish Traditional Session (2pm; Free)
—The Dubliner Irish Pub, 1756 Carolina Beach Rd.
Hank Barbee (8pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —Palate, 1007 N. 4th St.
Karaoke with DJ Mic (9pm; Free)
—Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front St.; 910-251-1832
Children Of The Reptile, Burnpit, Velvet Reaper (9pm; Cover TBD; Metal) —Reggie’s 42nd St. Tavern, 1415 S 42nd St.
The Indigo Drops (10pm; Free)
—Satellite Bar & Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.; 910-399-2796
Dirty White Rags (10pm; $5; Jazz) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
Ramy Youssef (7pm, 9:30pm; $15; Comedy)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
12 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
JP Guhns Duo (7pm; Eclectic Covers; Free)
—Mad Mole Brewing, 6309 Boathouse Rd.
—Bills Front Porch, 4328 Market St.
LIVE MUSIC
—The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.
Gruff Goat Comedy Showcase (8pm; Free)
—Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry St. Your neighborhood drafthouse with a menu full of lowcountry favorites. Join us for a hot meal and a cold pint.
Punk Night (9pm; Cover TBD)
Jim Ferris Trio (9pm; Jazz; Free)
SUNDAY, JANUARY 6
Books, Beer & Jazz Piano (3pm; Free)
—Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.; 910-76-BOOKS
Bluegrass Jam (6pm; Free)
—Satellite Bar and Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.
Sunday School Underground (8pm; Free)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St; 910-763-2223
MONDAY, JANUARY 7
Open Mic w/DJ L.A. (9pm; Free) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 8
Karaoke w/ Party Gras (7pm; Free)
—Hoplite Pub, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.
Crunk Witch and more (8pm; $5)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
DJ Elementary (10pm; Cover TBD)
—Palm Room, 11 E. Salisbury St.; 910-509-3040
Open Mic (7:30pm; Free)
—Broomtail Craft Brewery, 6404 Amsterdam Way
Music Bingo (8pm; Free)
—The Brewer’s Kettle, 4718 Oleander Dr.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9 Music Bingo at Bill’s (7pm; Free)
—Bills Front Porch, 4328 Market St.;
Hop City Hellcats (8pm; Cover TBD; Country, Blues) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
Singer-Songwriter Circle/Open Mic (9pm; Free) —Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.
Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.;
Benny Hill Smooth Jazz (7pm; Free)
—Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavillion Place
Team Trivia (7pm; Free)
—Slice of Life, 125 Market St.; 910-251-9444
Music Bingo at The Harp (7:30pm; Free) —The Harp, 1423 S 3rd St.
Open Mic (6pm; Free)
—Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 Oleander Dr.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 10
Jazz Series: La Fiesta Latin Jazz Quintet (6:30pm; $10-$20)
—Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.; 910-395-5999
Throwback Thursday Karaoke w/ DJ Damo (8pm; Free)
—Reggie’s 42nd St. Tavern, 1415 S. 42nd St.
Trivia from Hell’s (7:30pm; Free)
—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-763-4133
FireDrums & Tarot Thursdays (8pm; Free)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTHEASTERN NC
SHOWSTOPPERS
DIVE IN: 2019 has Lake Street Dive playing three shows in NC: Cat’s Cradle in Carrboro on Jan. 5, The Orange Peel in Ashville on Jan. 8 and Charlotte’s The Fillmore on Jan. 10. Photo by Shervin Lainez NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE N. DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 12/27: Travers Brothership and more 12/28: Pat McGee and Erni Halter 1/9: John Nemeth 1/11: Temperance League, Brandy Lindsey, more 1/12: Carolina Gator Gumbo and more THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 12/28: Moon Taxi 12/29: JOYRIDE 12/31: Chew-Years Eve 1/10: Lake Street Dive and Mikaela Davis 1/12: Cherub THE FILLMORE UNDERGROUND 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 12/31: Chew-Years Eve 1/5:Chicago Rewired and Reo Survivor 1/6: State Property 1/11: Enrage Against The Machine 1/12: Listen Local Series 1/15: Silverstein GREENSBORO COLISEUM 1921 WEST LEE ST., GREENSBORO, NC (336) 373-7400 12/31: Bassnectar NYE 360º 1/11: Richard Barker The Incredible Hypnotist DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 123 VIVIAN ST. DURHAM, NC (919) 688-3722 12/29: The Nutcracker 1/19: Chris Thile
MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE, DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875 12/26: Lila 12/28: Big Baby Gucci, Mikey 100K and more 12/30: Motorco Comedy Night with Dulce Sloan 12/31: NYE Party Rose Kennedy and DJ Shahzad 1/5: Dishoom 2019 1/11: Shred for Music Ed 1/12: Jon Spencer and The Hitmakers LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111 12/28: Comrades & Nomads 12/29: Big Something w/ The Mantras 12/30: Big Something w/ The Kind Thieves 12/31: Big Something w/ Midnight North 1/4: Aaron Hamm and Big River & Jonathan Wood 1/5: Granger Smith, Jon Langston and Seth Ennis 1/6: OG, Tiggy Olandoe, AirCrash Detechtives and TBA 1/9: Fruition, Brad Parsons and Starbird CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 12/28: The Merch Holiday Dance Party (Back) 12/29: Sarah Shook & The Disarmers and more 12/31: New Year’s Eve Party: Dillon Fence and more 1/4: Sirius B, The Shoaldiggers and Lester Coalbanks & the Seven Sorrows 1/5: Lake Street Dive and Mikaela Davis 1/10: Family Vision, Bleary Eyed and Julian Waits THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 12/28: Nevermind 12/29: 10 Years and To Whom It May 12/31: River Whyless and Horse Feathers 1/4: Off With Your Radiohead 1/8: Lake Street Dive 1/9: Zoso 1/16: Badfish, Ballyhoo and Little Stranger
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 13
ARTS>>ART
ARTS IN RETROSPECT:
Moments of visual stimulation worth reliving in 2018
S
American icons both famous and infamous hung on one wall, while the opposite bore grey tiles etched with shackled hands. Inbetween stood weary clay houses, imprinted with 19th-century headlines describing Wilmington’s racial violence. Bourne’s dark imagery stood stark as life was during the era, with her cracked ceramic glaze evoking broken lives.
BY: JAMES MCCREA
eems like Wilmington saw a spike in its artistic output through 2018, and in retrospect it’s difficult to explain exactly why. Did UNCW and CFCC have healthier graduating classes than previous years? Did we get an influx of new artists? Or—as I suspect—are there more avenues to see art outside of conventional settings nowadays? Whatever the reason, it’s truly making Wilmington a more interesting place to live and play. New art can be seen on the Fourth Friday Gallery Walk in downtown as frequently as in off-the-cuff settings like Flytrap Brewery and Coworx. A talented historian may make sense of this in due time, but in the meantime. I’m here to commemorate 2018 for a few of its artistic offerings. Limiting the experience to only 10 examples is quite a challenge—and despite being a listicle format, consider below a mere snapshot of notable moments from a year filled with many, all of equal merit. 1. Athenian House demonstrated the power of art as activism with Art of Resistance, a charity fundraiser aimed at maintaining a safe space for Wilmington’s female, femme-identifying, nonbinary, and multiracial individuals. The auction drew from participants of Athenian House’s own artist-in-residency members, as well as from local and national artists. The result was a showcase of art challenging male power structures, bolstering unity among the marginalized, and further encouraging discourse. Though since the house itself has closed, the nonprofit keeps going strong and is becoming mobile, offering helping hands in the community. Their next event will be a Femme Speak Out on January 11 at 7:30 p.m. with location to be determined.
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8. Cameron Art Museum opened an amazing interactive exhibit, A Time When Art is Everywhere,” from Japanese-based teamLab. Created by more than 500 artists, programmers, engineers, animators, architects, and mathematicians, the “Sketch Aquarium” is one facet that encourages people to color marine life, like starfish, jellyfish, fish of all sizes, scan them and then watch them come to life in a digital sea of other hand-designed marine life. Participants can even “feed” the fish by touching feed bags, to which all the fish clamor for a bite. MAGIC INTERACTION: CAM’s latest interactive teamLab exhibit will be on display through September 2019. Courtesy photo
2. Declarations of Success was another community-oriented group show, focusing how youth of color can achieve enriching lifegoals despite limited resources. Mike Williams and Lamar Whidbee of the Black on Black Project discussed this with Wilmington teens in workshops held at DREAMS of Wilmington. Whidbee then painted portraits of each participant on cardboard, emblazoned with statements about their hopes and dreams. Greatness is always on the horizon for everyone, no matter who they are or where they came from. 3. Sarah Royal’s “Wilt” eschewed convention by affixing ephemera to art. A beautiful monstrosity of beeswax, fabric, and mirrors, Wilt engulfed the Wilson Center’s black-box theatre for just one night. Intended to be a private, secluded experience during the bustling Fourth Friday Gallery Walk, Royal’s creative expression is not something to be bought and sold. That it was shown at all made it a privileged glimpse of a long, grueling creative process made manifest. Art lovers had a single evening to view the piece before Royal left it to degrade in the wild— befitting of its name. 4. Hailey Black debuted dramatically with “The Liberation of the Individual.” Her sprawling cloth installations and organically abstract paintings dominated UNCW’s Boseman Gallery, offering a glimpse into Black’s memories and emotions. While the silky warmth of her cloth sculpture represented
14 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
Black’s love of her family, her crypticallytitled paintings evoked former struggles and uncertainties as she made her way through life. For Black, art and family supported her as she underwent a painful transformation into the individual she is today. 5. Nathan Verwey has been keeping very busy since his debut solo exhibit in 2017. His style proves a readily identifiable presence throughout Wilmington, and his prolific workethic and intellectual curiosity came to fruition in his Coworx exhibition “The Weight of Walls” in the summer. Multiple intense watercolor studies showcased imagined faces— pensive, fraught, curious. Often materializing and vanishing into heavy white paper, Verwey’s subject matter—some even famous, a la David Bowie and Paul Newman—seem like barely-tangible cognates of his own inner dialogues. It’s a miracle Coworx didn’t collapse under such weight. 6. Jamie J. Tilley’s “Full Time” was a bold introduction to a thoroughly self-wrought artist. Tilley loads his paintbrush with psychoanalytical energy as he channels reverence for the human condition into outwardly simplistic figures that each belie a wealth of hidden detail. His seemingly chaotic, multicolored paintings are held together by intricate personal symbolism. However, his art remains far from unapproachable. If you happen to catch Tilley at one of his shows, he would be thrilled to discuss it with you. 7. Shannon Bourne got a chance to flex her creative muscles in “American Stories,” which showcased her ability to merge ceramicist skills with careful printmaking techniques. Ceramic plates hand-printed with
Also included is “Story of the Time When Gods Were Everywhere,” showcasing Kanji symbols (Japanese language) that come to life when touched by a human hand. Folks will see elephants, wolves and mountainous landscapes appear through a visual story. It’s truly an exhibit everyone from 2-yearolds to 92-year-olds will love! A feast for the eyes and creative minds, it’s up through September 2019. 9. Michael Aurbach came to UNCW’s Cultural Arts Gallery armed to the teeth with sardonic wit, razor-sharp commentary, and monumental sculptures detailing the often-Orwellian state of academic life. A huge metallic fortification fitted with cameras towered over a small whistleblower that refused to cower in its presence, while a nearby arrangement of tubes, funnels, and basins formed a complex Rube Goldberg device pumping out vibrators disguised as textbooks. Despite recent retirement, Aurbach continues to rally against censorship in the arts. 10. Acme Art Studios pulled all the stops in assembling Dina Wilde-Ramsing’s “Gathering the Flock,” a retrospective encompassing 40 years of work. Wilde-Ramsing’s intricate ceramics evoke Native American imagery in a style all her own, with robust horses, curious crows, and bold female figures, wrought of earthen clay. Her work filled nearly every part of Acme’s expansive building, with more pieces revealed at each turned corner. Such a retrospective would honor any artist.
HANGING AROUND THE PORT CITY
GALLERYGUIDE
ARTEXPOSURE!
22527 Highway 17N Hampstead, NC (910) 803-0302 (910) 330-4077 Tues. - Sat. 10am - 5pm (or by appt.) www.artexposure50.com
One-man show “Escape into Plein Air” features Robert Rigsby. The show will highlight oil paintings from Rob’s 6 month trip visiting all fifty national parks. Rob also wrote a book about his journey and it is available under the same name on Amazon.
ART IN BLOOM GALLERY
210 Princess St. Tues. - Sat. 10am - 6pm (or by appt., Sun. and Mon.) (484) 885-3037 www.aibgallery.com
Art in Bloom Gallery is in a renovated 19th-century horse stable and presents an eclectic mix of original art by emerging and established artists. View our featured exhibit, “Colors of Expression: Bradley Carter” through January 5, 2019. The artist and gallery are partnering to donate all proceeds from an art raffle to New Hanover Regional Medical Center’s Betty H. Cameron Women’s & Children’s Hospital during Bradley Carter’s exhibit. The raffle prize is the painting “What it Feels Like – Floral Impressions #44”. Raffle tickets may be purchased during normal business hours either in the gallery or on-line at https://aibgallery.com/artist/featured-artist/art-raffle/. The raffle drawing will be on December 28th at 7:30pm during Fourth Friday Gallery Night. The winner does not have to be present to win.
ART OF FINE DINING www.aibgallery.com
In addition to our gallery at 210 Princess Street, Art in Bloom Gallery partners with local businesses to exhibit original art in other locations. Current Art Exhibits include: “Art of the Camera: A Group Photography Exhibit” continues through February 4, 2019 at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street. “The Familiar Distance in Going Home: Visual Narratives by Pam Toll” continues through January 21st, 2019 at PinPoint Restaurant, 114 Market Street.
“Archival Ink Transfer Prints by Bob Bryden” and “Photography by (Joe) P. Wiegmann” continues through January 7th, 2018 at the District Kitchen and Cocktails, 1001 N. 4th Street.
CHARLES JONES AFRICAN ART
311 Judges Rd., Unit 6-E cjart@bizec.rr.com (910) 794-3060 Mon. – Fri. 10am - 12:30 pm 1:30 pm - 4 pm Open other hours and weekends by appointment www.cjafricanart.com African art: Museum quality African Art from West and Central Africa. Traditional African art for the discerning collector. Current Exhibition: Yoruba beadwork and Northern Nigerian sculpture. Appraisal services, curatorial services and educational exhibitions also available. Over 30 years experience in Tribal Arts. Our clients include many major museums.
NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY
271 N. Front St. (919) 343-8997 Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) www.newelementsgallery.com
Now exhibiting the 23rd annual Holiday Show, featuring various artists, on display through January 5. Located in the heart of historic downtown Wilmington, New Elements Gallery has been offering the best of regional and national fine art and craft since 1985.Learn more about the artists we represent, featured exhibitions, and gallery news on our website.
WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY 200 Hanover St. (bottom level, parking deck) Mon.-Fri., noon-5pm http://cfcc.edu/danielsgallery
Now featuring the work of eight artists who visited Bald Head Island to create new works during the 2018 No Boundaries International Art Colony. Artists include: Andi Steele, Guillermo Oyàgüez Montero, Harry Taylor, Mamiko Takayanagi, Nathan Ryan Verwey, Rusudan Khizanishvili, Sarah Rushing Doss, Shannon Bourne. On display through the end of the year.
100% of our draft beer sales for the rest of the December will go to Paws4People and Paws4Vets.
paws4people foundation was founded by Kyria Henry in 1999, when she was just 12 years old, with the purpose of using dogs as a means of helping people. This nonprofit’s mission is educating and empowering people to utilize Assistance Dogs to transform their lives. The paws4vets Assistance Dog Placement Program provides customized Assistance Dogs to Veterans, Service Members, and their dependents with physical, neurological, psychiatric, or emotional disabilities.
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 15
ARTS>>THEATRE
THE FIRE WITHIN OUR SOULS:
‘Mamma Mia!’ brings fun and excitement to stage, just in time for the new year
S
BY: SHEA CARVER
ome trends just can’t be denied their deserved popularity status: practically all cat memes, vintage milk glassware, the little black dress, and ABBA are but a few. In 1999, the famed Swedish pop group became the pulsating heartbeat of a jukebox musical surrounding their famed hit, “Mamma Mia!” British playwright Catherine Johnson signed on to write the show based on ABBA songs, with former members Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus composing the music for stage. It went on to win a Laurence Olivier award, as well as Theatre World and Touring Broadway awards, plus took to the big screen in 2008 with Meryl Streep leading the way. Earlier in the summer of 2018, the sequel—also written by Johnson—opened and featured the one and only Cher. Now, in all of its hit-making glory, “Mamma Mia!” will be part of Opera House Theatre Company’s New Year’s Eve celebration at Thalian Hall and will continue a three-week run. The story follows Donna, who is in the throes
of her daughter Sophie’s wedding preparations. Unbeknownst to Donna, Sophie (Syndney Smith Martin) is trying to figure out who her father is, and invites three men from Donna’s past in hopes of getting to the bottom of it, so she can have an escort down the aisle. Playing Donna—a former pop starturned-Greek island hotel owner—is the remarkably talented Kendra GoehringGarrett, well known for her powerhouse vocals and choreography prowess. “I love that Donna is feisty, strong, independent, and complex,” GoehringGarrett tells. “Donna is a single mom, [who] never got married and really never depended on a man for anything. I think there is some importance in this. Even more, when she does finally get the guy, it’s for love!” Part of the appeal of Goehring-Garrett’s character is the development and growth she sees throughout the show. “She really changes her tune and desires, [and] comes into her
Barbershop
they cause. “They certainly keep running through your brain long after rehearsal is over!” “Chiquitita” is LaRaisha Dionne’s favorite tune. Playing Rosie, one of Donna’s best friends and former band mates, Dionne sings it in hopes of adding some cheer to Donna’s woes. The rhythm and melody challenges have sharpened Dionne’s vocal deftness, as well as shaped her role’s many facets.
TRIFECTA OF BESTIES: LaRaisha Dionne as Rosie, Kendra Goehring-Garrett as Donna, and Samantha Rae Mifsud as Tanya play best friends in ‘Mamma Mia!’ Photo by Erik Maasch Photography
own,” Goehring-Garrett notes. Sometimes the emotion of that transformation can be hard for the actress to hone in. She names “Slipping Through My Fingers” and “Winner Takes All” as some of the emotionally hardest to sing, a challenge she welcomes, regardless. From behind the piano, music director Lorene Walsh will be conducting Greg Bell and John Sullivan on synthesizer, Ryan Woodall on bass, Mitch Hebert on drums, Mike Hanson on percussion, and Justin Lacy on guitar. Though the music is easier to play than Walsh expected, what its vivacious arrangement is most fulfilling. “Tempos fly, but the chord progressions are normal and there is a fair amount of repetition,” she tells. “I love the fun, upbeat nature of a lot of ABBA’s songs. They make you want to get up and dance!” The sounds are part disco, part electronic and synthetic. “While we can make some of the authentic sounds they used, it will be hard to come up with all of them,” Walsh tells. “I have to thank Rob Hood for his (volunteer) help with some of that!”
4007 Oleander Dr. 910-619-6653 Monday thru Friday 6:30am-6pm and Saturday 6:30am-3pm
www.tadsbarbershop.com 16 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
Multi-layered vocals add to its depth, too. Both are used with onstage and offstage singers to cover every pitch-perfect part. In fact, it’s been Walsh’s biggest obstacle to overcome. “Teaching and covering all the vocal lines, and fitting them together, especially when they’re written, essentially, as counterpoint, [has been challenging,]” she admits. But upon hearing some of her favorites, “Waterloo” and “Dancing Queen” among them, has forgiven all else—well, except for maybe the earworms
“I love I’m getting to play another Brit who is very different from Mrs. Pearce,” Dionne says, referring to her role in “My Fair Lady” over the summer. “Also, [director] Ray [Kennedy] has encouraged me to dig into my activist side. [Rosie is] a proud, all-natural woman of color who happens to be British. I love being able to bring myself to a role however lighthearted—I feel represented on stage.” “The three leading ladies and dads are all so interesting and different,” Kennedy adds. “I love the camaraderie between Donna, Tanya [played by Samantha Rae Mifsud] and Rosie— and the sweetness and optimism of Sophie.” Rosie’s frivolity is inspiring to Dionne as well, in that laughing, letting go and having fun more often are as important as the hard growth one endures in life. “She also teaches me to be a better friend,” Dionne says. “Relationships and friendships are what connect us. We are all interconnected; we are all dancing queens!” A special New Year’s Eve run of “Mamma Mia!” will take place at Thalian Hall in the theme of a Greek-island getaway. Doors will open at 7 p.m. for penny cocktails and dinner catered by Angie’s, including leg of lamb, chicken souvlaki, vegetable moussaka, spanakopita, and a dessert intermission during the show. After the musical, patrons can enjoy karaoke with DJ Damo in the Ruth and Bucky Stein Theatre, as well as dancing in the ballroom, a champagne toast at midnight, and celebrating until 2 a.m. All inclusive tickets are $160.
DETAILS:
Mamma Mia!
Dec. 30, 3 p.m. NYE gala, Dec. 31, 7 p.m. • $160 Jan. 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 6, 13, 3 p.m.; Jan. 19, 2 p.m. Tickets: $32 • thalianhall.org Thalian Hall 8 310 Chestnut St.
ARTS>>THEATRE
FINAL CURTAIN CALL:
Gwenyfar and Chase run down memorable experiences from the theatre community in 2018 BY: CHASE HARRISON & GWENYFAR ROHLER
W
e asked our two theatre reviewers to reflect back on 2018 and share with us either their favorite shows or memorable experiences provided from our theatre community in 2018. Chase Harrison and Gwenyfar Rohler break down highlights and lowlights of the year.
Gwenyfar Rohler
For me, personally, the most interesting occurrences with theatre in Wilmington happened offstage this year. 1. The big news of the year was Justin Smith becoming the artistic director at Opera House Theatre Company. Since the passing of Lou Criscuolo, arguably one of the biggest personalities I have ever met, Opera House has floundered trying to find their legs with what the next phase would look like. It is a normal reaction to such a drastic change, with the process of figuring out its next phase being fraught. Overall, show quality hasn’t been as compelling as it once was, and audience attendance hasn’t been hitting peak numbers. A lot of people in this position would become so entrenched in their own egos, they would take the whole organization over a cliff before trying something different. Alice Sherwood had the strength and presence of mind to extend a hand to Justin Smith, rather than retreat—and that’s the sign of a true leader. Theatre is a collaborative process, and this move shows it clearly. I for one, am really looking forward to what Sherwood and Smith have in store for 2019 (and it’s starting with “Mamma Mia” for their new year run; see previous page). 2. Loss of theatre venues has dominated conversation and decision making in 2018. Hurricane Florence put the North Front Theatre (née Level 5/City Stage) out of commission and threw several planned productions into flux or cancelation. Big Dawg Productions is potentially losing their space at the Cape Fear Playhouse on Castle Street. Thus, they’re putting together a capital campaign to figure out what their next act is going to look like. And it’s all happening in wake of the loss of Browncoat Pub & Theatre and The Red Barn Theatre in the last few years. With fewer venues comes fewer productions and a very real impact on the breadth of offerings in our community. 3. Former Wilmingtonian Tracy Byrd played the Wilson Center in the national tour of “Mo-
town the Musical” in 2018. It is important for me because I spend a significant portion every week at the theatre. The amount of time I spend thinking about theatre, and the work of our amazing community, and the place it holds in the larger cultural conversation is vast. For as long as I can remember, I have been surrounded by people working on their craft and aspiring to make a living or (hopefully) achieve stardom. Many people have grown up here, learned their skills and moved on to bigger markets. I am beyond proud of each and every one of them. For years I watched Tracy (and others) on stage and wondered what the hell he was doing here. During his return with “Motown,” I cried every time he entered the stage. Because, unlike the people I know intellectually are working elsewhere—and making it (Cullen Moss and Maddie Hasson come to mind)—I rarely see their work. Seeing Tracy on stage was incredibly powerful. He is so talented, as are so many of the people whose work I get to enjoy on stage here weekly. It wasn’t just Tracy’s dream fulfilled; it was my dream for everyone. 4. Theatre reopened after Florence. I’m not kidding nor belittling. Hurricane Florence was one helluva stumbling block. “Agnes of God” closed early, “Pippin” and “Cannibal” both had shortened runs, and North Front Theatre is still closed due to damage (see above). UNCW theatre moved an entire show to next year from their season because they effectively lost a month of time. The effects of the storm are still being felt in the arts (and across our community), so that Wilmington’s theatre community managed to get shows open and audiences in seats say a lot about us. Thank you, dedicated artists who brought joy, happiness and light to us when we really needed it. Thank you, audiences who showed up and made it possible for the work to continue. 5. The immersive production of “1776” was presented in City Hall and toured to Charlotte at the heels of the 2018 election. It was a joint production of Opera House Theatre, Company, Positive Impact and Forward Foundation, Inc.—a nonprofit that seeks to bring installations of the founding documents of our country to every county in North Carolina. It was a great example of taking art into communities and us-
“The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance” and threw out all connotations associated with the fantastic ode to the John Ford Western. Walking the tight-rope of tension, the fish-out-of-water story exceptionally showcased all required elements to the world of the gunslinger. Sending the show above and beyond was the phenomenal performance of Robin Dale Robinson playing the titled character of Liberty Valance. He shaped Liberty into one of the vilest of villains— and most importantly, became the most memorable character of the year.
MAN OF THE STAGE: Tracy Byrd returned home to Wilmington as part of the Broadway tour “Motown the Musical” at Wilson Center last spring and gave his hometown some love once again with his amazing vocal and dancing prowess. Photo, courtesy of Allied Touring
ing it to make our shared history come alive— to forge connections across time and space to the present.
Chase Harrison
3. Alchemical Theatre Company favors the avant-garde approach to the words of Shakespeare. In 2018 they gave us “Twelfth Night” as part of Lumina Arts Festival. They reshaped the structure of the stage with its promenade style, and the world of the play itself. Creating something more akin to modern American folklore, director Chris Marino imbibed the story with a Dust Bowl-esque-era vibe, captured in the quickness of an ‘80s comedy with great results. Along with original music composed by Adrian Varnam and a hilarious performance by Ashley Strand, “Twelfth Night” gave new breadth to a Shakespearian classic. 4. “My Fair Lady” was a full-on spectacle— in the best of ways—at Thalian Hall. Opera House Theatre Company presented it with bright colors and flawless numbers and a cast that wowed with every entry and exit. As well, it featured a star-making turn from local actress Emilia Torello, whose poise brought elegance and street smarts to both sides of our leading lady, Eliza Doolittle. Torello perfectly embodied what makes the character a classic—just as much as the show itself.
“Agnes of God” dealt with the debate of science versus religion and came to a halt by either a meteorological monster or an act of God itself: Hurricane Florence. The onslaught of Flo barreled down on our city a week after Big Dawg had opened this outstanding staging. While normally the world of theatre proclaims “the show must go on!” this time around, it just 5. “The Santaland Diaries” is a dirty-minded, wasn’t a possibility. debaucherous hoot and holler. Yes, it’s been Despite its four-show run, “Agnes of God” staged and re-staged and so on and so forth, was the best play I saw in 2018 that, unfortu- over the past 14 years in the port city. This year nately, many could not. The work done by the Wilmington was put at the mercy of the mercipowerhouse team of Eleanor Stanford, Grace lessly wicked humor of director Anthony LawCarlyle and Jemila Ericson was top-notch and son and star Kevin Wilson in Panache’s fourth controlled perfectly by director Kat Vernon. It outing of the confessional show. was a lost treasure by a company having one Wilson, who hadn’t stepped foot on a stage hell of a season. in five years, finally crawled from under his Alas, fear not! Big Dawg will be re-staging rock with no rust whatsoever to deliver an abthe lost two weeks in 2019, so keep an eye out solute human character, complete and flawed, for this remarkable work to boomerang back. simultaneously, yet always justifying his actions. Very few people are both a summer and 2. Panache Theatrical Productions put on a winter, but Wilson pulls it off nicely.
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 17
18 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
REEL TO REEL
ARTS>>FILM
films this week
UNEXPECTED MAGIC:
FLASHBACK CINEMA: DIE HARD
‘Aquaman’ is a surprisingly fun Christmastime blockbuster
F
The Pointe at Barclay 1450 Barclay Pointe Blvd. Dec. 30 & Jan. 2, 12:40 p.m., 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $6.25-$10.25
BY: ANGHUS
or me, the most enjoyable cinematic experiences are the unapologetic ones— when filmmakers have a clear vision for what they want and fearlessly pursues the goals. It’s hard to find that kind of bravery in big-budget blockbusters, mainly due to the fact there are studios desperately invested in success and feel the need to push back on anything defying convention. Every so often we get a good, unapologetic blockbuster that bucks convention and surprises audiences with its audacity. “Aquaman” is a glorious example of fearless feature filmmaking—and it’s an absolutely mental motion picture. The fact we’re getting a big-budget adaptation of “Aquaman” feels like a Christmas miracle. Arguably one of the most maligned superheroes, spending $200 million on an adaptation of a guy whose power involves talking to fish feels risky at best—especially in a day and age when we’re getting comic-book adaptations every other month in a landscape laden with darker heroes and themes, like “Deadpool,” “Venom” and “Avengers: Infinity War.” How is “Aquaman” supposed to compete with that? Director James Wan successfully found the answer by making an over-the-top epic adventure that isn’t afraid to get weird. Arthur, a.k.a. Aquaman (Jason Momoa), is the son of a human (Temuera Morrison) and Queen of Atlantis (Nicole Kidman). The bastard spawn of an epic, world-spanning affair leaves him feeling disconnected to both the world of men and the world of mer-men. He’s visited by Mera (Amber Heard), a member of Atlantean royalty, who asks him to return under sea to challenge his half-brother, Orm (Patrick Wilson), for the throne. Old Orm wants to curbstomp the surface world for dumping all their trash in the ocean. Arthur is reluctant and self-aware enough to know a hard-drinking, rough-around-theedges outsider isn’t really king-of-the-sea material. After Orm sends some massive tidal waves toward humanity as a precursor for an invasion, Arthur decides he has no choice but to dethrone Orm and save the day. It involves some old-fashioned gladiatorial combat, trekking across the globe to find an ancient trident of power and fighting under-sea monsters of all shapes and sizes. The movie is crazy—like, “I can’t believe I’m seeing this” crazy! The amount of absolute insanity presented during “Aquaman” left me slack-jawed at its unapologetic fearlessness. The pace is so fast, it can only be
Revisit the 1988 classic around the holidays: “Die Hard.” It’s Christmas Eve in New York City and police officer John McClane (Bruce Willis) is visiting his estranged wife (Bonnie Bedelia) and two daughters. The husband and wife are
at her office holiday party in the headquarters of the Japanese-owned business she works for. It’s all fun an reindeer games until a group of
terrorists take over the exclusive high-rise and everyone in it. McClane realizes he’s the only one who can save the hostages.
FISH OUT OF WATER: ‘Aquaman’ feels like a Christmas miracle, according to Anghus, who says the unexpected blockbuster is full of goofy fun. Photo courstey of DC Comics.
described as “coke-fueled,” as Arthur travels from fighting pirates on a submarine to a variety of origin montages, back to fighting Atlantean super-soldiers before swooping into romantic entanglements. Wan doesn’t give us a moment to settle before taking us to the next crazy set-piece. Speaking of crazy, Momoa might be the strangest leading man for a big-budget blockbuster ever. It’s like watching a movie headlined by Macho Man Randy Savage. He’s a big, gruff, charismatic piece of meat who manages to beguile in spite of looking and sounding like a half-drunk Hell’s Angel. Casting works because it really feels like an outsider being thrust into epic mayhem. Momoa’s fish-out-of-water attributes make his journey from conflicted everyman to the King of Atlantis feel even more epic. Amber Heard is great as Mera. Patrick Wilson is fantastic as the scenery-chewing Ocean Master Orm, and sells every evil machination with robust rage.
ous.” But those criticisms are extremely minor. Just about everything in “Aquaman” works because Wan isn’t afraid to embrace the ridiculousness of the concept and has crafted a fun and fresh story. “Aquaman” is the most entertaining movie of 2018. Its goofy charm reminds me of great cheeseball blockbusters, like “Flash Gordon” or “The Phantom.” Warner Brothers, here’s a tip: Hand all DC Comics characters to James Wan and let him produce all movies going forward. If they end up being as much fun as “Aquaman,” they all will offer up one hell of a ride.
CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME?
DETAILS:
When Lee Israel falls out of step with current tastes, she turns her art form to deception.
Aquaman
Jan. 14-17, 7 p.m. (additional screening, 4 p.m., on the 17) Thalian Hall • 310 Chestnut St. Tickets: $8 An adaptation of the memoir “Can You Ever Forgive Me?”, the true story of best-selling celebrity biographer Lee Israel. Starring Melissa
Rated PG-13 Directed by James Wan Starring Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Willem Dafoe
McCarthy, Richard E. Grant, Dolly Wells.
Kudos to the team of production designers and technical craftsmen who made the undersea world feel so alive. This kind of movie lives or dies by the reality of a below-thesurface civilization; it all seems very real and well-realized. The film’s final 15 minutes is a crowd-pleasing orgy of special-effects and virtual filmmaking that may have raised the bar on what can be accomplished in a big-budget blockbuster. Still, a few moments fall flat—mostly in the middle of the film, when they try to create a playful chemistry between Arthur and Mera, as well as a few pop-music cues that make the transitions feel like “The Fish and the Furi-
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 19
SOUTHEASTERN NC’S PREMIER DINING GUIDE
GRUB & GUZZLE
HENRY’S Restaurant and Bar
WWW.HENRYSRESTAURANT.COM
AMERICAN BLUEWATER WATERFRONT GRILL Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of sailing ships and the Intracoastal Waterway while dining at this popular casual American restaurant in Wrightsville Beach. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Favorites include jumbo lump crab cakes, succulent seafood lasagna, crispy coconut shrimp and an incredible Caribbean fudge pie. Dine inside or at their award-winning outdoor patio and bar, which is the location for their lively Waterfront Music Series every Sunday April October. Large parties welcome. Private event space available. BluewaterDining.com. 4 Marina Street, Wrightsville Beach, NC. (910) 256-8500. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon-Fri
11a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sat & Sun 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Waterfront dining ■ MUSIC: Music every Sunday in Summer ■ WEBSITE: www.bluewaterdining.com CAM CAFÉ CAM Café, located within the CAM delivers delightful surprises using fresh, local ingredients. The café serves lunch with seasonal options Tuesday through Saturday, inspired “small plates” on Thursday nights, an elegant yet approachable dinner on Thursday and brunch every Sunday. Look for a combination of fresh, regular menu items along with daily specials. As part of dining in an inspiring setting, the galleries are open during CAM Café hours which makes it the perfect destination to enjoy art of the plate along with
20 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
courtesy photo the art of the museum. 3201 S 17th St. (910) 7772363. ■ SERVING LUNCH, BRUNCH & DINNER: Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 2 pm; Thursday evening, 5pm-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.camcafe.org ELIJAH’S Since 1984, Elijah’s has been Wilmington, NC’s outdoor dining destination. We feature expansive indoor and outdoor waterfront dining, with panoramic views of riverfront sunsets. As a Casual American Grill and Oyster Bar, Elijah’s offers everything from fresh local seafood and shellfish to pastas, sandwiches, and Certified Angus Beef selections. We offer half-priced oysters from 4-6 every Wednesday & live music with
our Sunday Brunch from 11-3. Whether you are just looking for a great meal & incredible scenery, or a large event space for hundreds of people, Elijah’s is the place to be. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11:3010:00; Friday and Saturday 11:30-11:00 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Wilmington; kids menu available HENRY’S A local favorite, Henry’s is the ‘place to be’ for great food, a lively bar and awesome patio dining. Henry’s serves up American cuisine at its finest that include entrees with fresh, local ingredients. Come early for lunch, because it’s going to be packed. Dinner too! Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to 30 people. 2508 Independence Boulevard, Wilmington, NC. (910) 793.2929.
SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. - Mon. 11 a.m.10 p.m.; Tues.- Fri.: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sat.: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.
their bar has a great assortment of wines, even offered half off by the glass on Tuesdays-Thursdays. Open Tues. - Sun. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling 910-3994701.
■ WEBSITE: www.henrysrestaurant.com
■ OPEN LUNCH AND DINNER: Tues.-Sun., 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
HOPS SUPPLY CO.
■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington
The combination of chef-inspired food and our craft bar makes Hops Supply Co. a comfortable and inviting gastropub that attracts guests of all types – especially a local crowd who can feel right at home whether ordering a classic favorite or trying a new culinary delight! At HopsCo, we are dedicated to the craft of excellent cuisine and delivering hops in its most perfect form, exemplified by our selection of craft beers. As hops are the heart of flavor for beer, our local seasonal ingredients are the soul of our culinary inspired American fare. 5400 Oleander Dr. (910) 833-8867.
■ WEBSITE: www.nichewilmington.com
■ OPEN: Mon-Thurs 10:57 am - 10 pm; Fri-Sat 10:57 am - 11 pm {Serving Brunch 10:57am – 3pm & bar open until midnight}; Brunch ALL DAY Sunday 9:57am – 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.hopssupplycompany.com NICHE Niche Kitchen and Bar features an eclectic menu, a large wine list, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. Close to Carolina Beach, Niche has a great selection of dishes from land to sea. All dishes are cooked to order, and Sundays features a great brunch menu! Niche’s heated covered patio is perfect for anytime of the year and great for large parties. And
PINE VALLEY MARKET Pine Valley Market has reigned supreme in servicing the Wilmington community for years, securing encore’s Best-Of awards in catering, gourmet shop and butcher. Now, Kathy Webb and Christi Ferretti are expanding their talents into serving lunch in-house, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy ambience of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to childhood. Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is something for all palates. Take advantage of their take-home frozen meals for nights that are too hectic to cook, and don’t forget to pick up a great bottle of wine to go with it. 3520 S. College Road, (910) 350-FOOD. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri.10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sun. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials and take-home frozen meals ■ WEBSITE: www.pinevalleymarket.com ROADHOUSE OF WILMINGTON
Roadhouse is an American-style restaurant and focuses on homemade, classic dishes, cooked to order, using fresh ingredients. They are located at in the old Saltworks building on Wrightsville Avenue and open at 8:00 a.m. for breakfast and lunch, and 5:00 p.m. for dinner. Breakfast is served 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., lunch from 11:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Look for daily specials and other important information online at www.facebook.com/roadhousewilmington, or call (910) 765-1103. Please, no reservations.
Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-3921 Southport (910) 457-7017 Boone, NC (828) 265-2658 Chapel Hill, NC (919) 240-4206 ■ WEBSITE: www.trollystophotdogs.com
ASIAN
Check our website trollystophotdogs.com for hours of operations, specific store offerings and telephone numbers, or contact Rick Coombs, 910-2978416, rtrollystop@aol.com
HIBACHI TO GO Hibachi To Go is a locally owned, family business serving only the freshest ingredients with three locations. We invite you to try our menu items at either our Hampstead drive-thru location, where you can walk-up, take-out, or call in and pick up your meal or our Ogden location with dine-in or take-out options. Our new Wilmington location (894 South Kerr Avenue) offers dine-in, take-out or drive-thru service. We’re convenient for lunch and dinner. Open 7 days 11 am - 9 pm. Our popular Daily Lunch Specials are featured Monday-Saturday for $4.99 with selections from our most popular menu items! We always have fresh seafood selections at Hibachi To Go, like delicious hand peeled shrimp, fresh local flounder and always a fresh catch fillet in-house. We scratch make every item on our menu daily. We offer your favorite hibachi meals and some of our originals like our pineapple won tons. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for the most up to date information on Hibachi To Go. Always fresh, great food at a super good price. Hampstead Phone: 910.270.9200. • Ogden Phone: 910.791.7800 Wilmington Phone: 910-833-8841
We offer catering serving 25-1000 people. Franchises available
■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open 7 days 11am-9pm
■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER
■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, N. Wilmington, Hampstead
■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: 8 a.m. breakfast and lunch; 5 p.m. dinner ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: facebook.com/roadhousewilmington THE TROLLY STOP Trolly Stop Grill and Catering is a four store franchise in North Carolina. Trolly Stop Hotdogs opened in Wrightsville Beach in 1976. That store name has never changed. Since the Wrightsville Beach store, the newer stores sell hotdogs, hamburgers, beef and chicken cheese steaks, fries, hand dipped ice cream, milk shakes, floats and more. Our types of dogs are: Southern (Trolly Dog, beef and pork), Northern (all beef), Smoke Sausage (pork), Fat Free (turkey), Veggie (soy). Voted Best Hot Dog in Wilmington for decades.
■ LOCATIONS: Wilmington, Fountain Dr. (910) 4523952
■ WEBSITE: www.hibachitogo.com
Give the Gift of
BEEF
At True Blue Butcher & Table, the gift of beef is more than a product, it’s an experience with a classic neighborhood butcher. It’s the conversations over his meat counter, where he learns your name and favorite cuts, and secrets of meat cookery are shared. Give the gift of buying beef the old way.
For the meat-lover you know, Butcher Gift Certificates are available. Purchase $100 and we’ll add an extra $10 on us. 1125-A Military Cutoff Rd, Wilmington | www.wearetrueblue.com | 910.679.4473
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INDOCHINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown
If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Orient without having to leave Wilmington, join us at Indochine for a truly unique experience. Indochine brings the flavors of the Far East to the Port City, combining the best of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine in an atmosphere that will transport you and your taste buds. Relax in our elegantly decorated dining room, complete with antique Asian decor as well as contemporary artwork and music. Our diverse, friendly and efficient staff will serve you beautifully presented dishes full of enticing aromas and flavors. Be sure to try such signature items as the spicy and savory Roasted Duck with Red Curry, or the beautifully presented and delicious Shrimp and Scallops in a Nest. Be sure to save room for our world famous desert, the banana egg roll! We take pride in using only the freshest ingredients, and our extensive menu suits any taste. After dinner, enjoy specialty drinks by the koi pond in our Asian garden. Located at 7 Wayne Drive (beside the Ivy Cottage), (910) 251-9229.
■ WEBSITE: www.okamisteakhouse.com SZECHUAN 132 Craving expertly prepared Chinese food in an elegant atmosphere? Szechuan 132 Chinese Restaurant is your destination! Szechuan 132 has earned the reputation as one of the finest contemporary Chinese restaurants in the Port City. Tastefully decorated with an elegant atmosphere, with an exceptional ingenious menu has deemed Szechuan 132 the best Chinese restaurant for years, hands down. 419 South College Road (in University Landing), (910) 799-1426. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Lunch specials ■ WEBSITE: www.szechuan132.com YOSAKE DOWNTOWN SUSHI LOUNGE
Lively atmosphere in a modern setting, Yosake is the ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues.- Fri. 11 a.m.- 2 delicious Downtown spot for date night, socializing p.m.; Sat. 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. for lunch. Mon.- Sun. 5 with friends, or any large dinner party. Home to the p.m. – 10 p.m. for dinner. never-disappointing Shanghai Firecracker Shrimp! In addition to sushi, we offer a full Pan Asian menu ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown including curries, noodle dishes, and the ever-popu■ WEBSITE: www.indochinewilmington.com lar Crispy Salmon or mouth-watering Kobe Burger. Inspired features change weekly showcasing our NIKKI’S FRESH GOURMET commitment to local farms. Full bar including a comFor more than a decade, Nikki’s downtown has prehensive sake list, signature cocktails, and Asian served diners the best in sushi. With freshly crafted Import Bottles. 33 S. Front St., 2nd Floor (910) 763ingredients making up their rolls, sushi and sashimi, a 3172. taste of innovation comes with every order. Daily they offer specialty rolls specific to the Front Street loca- ■ SERVING DINNER: 7 nights a week @ 5PM; Suntion, such as the My Yoshi, K-Town and Crunchy Eel Wed until 10pm, Thurs until 11pm, Fri & Sat until Midrolls. But for less adventurous diners looking for op- night. tions beyond sushi, Nikki’s serves an array of sand- ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown wiches, wraps and gyros, too. They also make it a ■ FEATURING: 1/2 Price Sushi/Appetizer Menu point to host all dietary needs, omnivores, carnivores nightly from 5-7, until 8 on Mondays, and also 10-Midand herbivores alike. They have burgers and cheesnight on Fri/Sat. Tuesday LOCALS NIGHT - 20% Dinesteaks, as well as falafal pitas and veggie wraps, as ner Entrees. Wednesday 80S NIGHT - 80s music and well as an extensive Japanese fare menu, such as menu prices. Sundays are the best deal downtown bento boxes and tempura platters. Daily dessert and - Specialty Sushi and Entrees are Buy One, Get One drink special are also on order. Check out their website and Facebook for more information. 16 S. Front $10 Off and 1/2 price Wine Bottles. Nightly Drink Specials. Gluten-Free Menu upon request. CompliSt. (910) 771-9151. mentary Birthday Dessert. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am10pm; Fri.-Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 12pm-10pm. Last ■ WEBSITE: www.yosake.com. @yosakeilm on Twitter & Instagram. Like us on Facebook. call on food 15 minutes before closing. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown
YOSHI
■ WEBSITE: www.nikkissushibar.com/
Yoshi Sushi Bar and Japanese Cuisine offers something the greater Wilmington area has never seen before. We are seeking to bring true New York Style Sushi to Wilmington, with classic sushi and sashimi, as well as traditional rolls and some unique Yoshi Creations. We offer a variety of items, including Poke Bowls and Hibachi - and we also are introducing true Japanese Ramen Bowls! Come try it today! 260 Racine Dr, Wilmington 28403 (910)799-6799
OKAMI JAPANESE HIBACHI STEAK HOUSE We have reinvented “Hibachi cuisine.” Okami Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse is like no other. Our highly skilled chefs cook an incredible dinner while entertaining you on the way. Our portions are large, our drinks are less expensive, and our staff is loads of fun. We are committed to using quality ingredients and seasoning with guaranteed freshness. Our goal is to utilize all resources, domestically and internationally, to ensure we serve only the finest food products. We believe good, healthy food aids vital functions for wellbeing, both physically and mentally. Our menu consists of a wide range of steak, seafood, and chicken for the specially designed “Teppan Grill.” We also serve tastebud-tingling Japanese sushi, hand rolls, sashimi, tempura dishes, and noodle entrees. This offers our guests a complete Japanese dining experience. Our all-you-can-eat sushie menu and daily specials can be found at www.okamisteakhouse.com! 614 S College Rd.
■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. 12pm-11pm, Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-11pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.com
BAGELS
BEACH BAGELS Beach Bagels is an award-winning, fast casual concept serving made in-house bagels, espresso drinks, and all-day breakfast. From their bagels to bacon, from sausage to smoked salmon, everything they ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am- make is made with love. Their New York style ba2:30pm / 4-10pm; Fri., 11am-2:30pm / 4pm-11pm; gels are made the traditional way - kettle boiled then baked. They also offer Boar’s Head premium deli Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am-9:30pm
22 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
meats and cheeses for any of their sandwich creations. To find out more about Beach Bagels, check them out on social media or visit one of their three locations to taste what they’re all about. 5906 Oleander Dr., (910) 769-4232 (in Seagate, across from Dairy Quee); 5226 S. College Rd., (910) 399-8731 (in Monkey Junction, beside PetSmart); This location is temporarily closed due to Hurricane Florance, 7220 Wrightsville Ave., (910) 256-1222. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Wrightsville Beach (Wrightsville Beach location is temporarily closed due to Hurricane Florence) and South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Homemade bagels, biscuits, croissants, sandwiches, and more! ■ WEBSITE: www.BeachBagels.biz ROUND BAGELS AND DONUT Round Bagels and Donuts features 17 varieties of New York-style bagels, baked fresh daily on site in a steam bagel oven. Round offers a wide variety of breakfast and lunch bagel sandwiches, grilled and fresh to order. Round also offers fresh-made donuts daily! Stop by Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., and on Sunday, 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Homemade bagels, cream cheeses, donuts, sandwiches, coffee and more
GREEK SYMPOSIUM RESTAURANT AND BAR After moving to Wilmington Chef George Papanikolaou and his family opened up The Greeks in 2012 and with the support of the community was able to venture out and try something different with Symposium. Symposium is an elegant experience consisting of recipes that Chef George has collected his whole life. Many of the recipes are family recipes that have been handed down through the years, one is as old as 400 years old. With a blend of fresh local ingredients, delicious longstanding family recipes, and Authentic Greek cuisine Symposium is a restaurant that is unique in its cooking and unforgettable in the experience it offers. Everything on the menu is a mouthwatering experience from the charred octopus, to the lamb shank with papardelle pasta, to the homemade baklava and galaktoboureko! Happy Eating OPA!! Located in Mayfaire Town Center at 890 Town Center Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) 239-9051. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily Specials ■ WEBSITE: www.symposiumnc.com
IRISH
■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Wilmington
THE HARP Experience the finest traditional Irish family recipes and popular favorites served in a casual yet elegant traditional pub atmosphere. The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St., proudly uses the freshest ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible, to bring you and yours the most delicious Irish fare! We have a fully stocked bar featuring favorite Irish beers and whiskies. We are open every day for both American and Irish breakfast, served to noon weekdays and 2 p.m. weekends. Regular menu to 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. weekends. Join us for trivia at 8:30 on Thursdays and live music on Fridays – call ahead for schedule (910) 763-1607. Located just beside Greenfield Lake and Park at the south end of downtown Wilmington, The Harp is a lovely Irish pub committed to bringing traditional Irish flavor, tradition and hospitality to the Cape Fear area.
■ FEATURING: Dinner shows, jazz brunches,
■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
■ WEBSITE: www.theatrewilmington.com
■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Greenfield Lake/Downtown South
■ WEBSITE: www.roundbagelsanddonuts.com
DINNER THEATRE THEATRENOW TheatreNOW is a performing arts complex that features weekend dinner theater, an award-winning weekly kids variety show, monthly Sunday Jazz Brunches, movie, comedy and live music events. Award-winning chef, Denise Gordon, and a fabulous service staff pair scrumptious multi-course themed meals and cocktails with our dinner shows in a theatre-themed venue. Dinner theater at its best! Reservations highly suggested. 19 S. 10th Street (910) 399.3NOW (3669). Hours vary.
FONDUE THE LITTLE DIPPER Wilmington’s favorite fondue restaurant! The Little Dipper specializes in unique fondue dishes with a global variety of cheeses, meats, seafood, vegetables, chocolates and fine wines. The warm and intimate dining room is a great place to enjoy a fourcourse meal, or indulge in appetizers and desserts outside on the back deck or in the bar while watching luminescent jellyfish. Reservations are appreciated for parties of any size. Located at the corner of Front and Orange in Downtown Wilmington. 138 South Front Street. (910) 251-0433. ■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; open 7 days/ week seasonally, May-October ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Tasting menu every Tues. with small plates from $1-$4; Ladies Night every Wed; $27 4-course prix fixe menu on Thurs.; “Date night menu,” $65/couple with beer and wine tasting every Fri. and half-price bottles of wine on Sun. ■ MUSIC: Tuesdays on the deck, 7 – 9p.m., May-Oct ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com
■ FEATURING: Homemade soups, desserts and breads, free open wifi, new enlarged patio area, and big screen TVs at the bar featuring major soccer matches worldwide. ■ WEBSITE: www.harpwilmington.com SLAINTE IRISH PUB Slainte Irish Pub in Monkey Junction has traditional pub fare with an Irish flair. We have a large selection of Irish whiskey, and over 23 different beers on draft, and 40 different craft beers in bottles. They have a large well lit outdoor patio with a full bar also. Come have some fun! They currently do not take reservations, but promise to take care of you when you get here! 5607 Carolina Beach Rd. #100, (910) 3993980 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 11:30 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington, Monkey Junction ■ FEATURING: Irish grub, whiskeys, beer, wine, fun. ■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/slaintemj
ITALIAN
a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun. brunch, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck
ANTONIO’S Serving fresh, homemade Italian fare in midtown and south Wilmington, Antonio’s Pizza and Pasta is a family-owned restaurant which serves New York style pizza and pasta. From daily specials during lunch and dinner to a friendly waitstaff ensuring a top-notch experience, whether dining in, taking out or getting delivery, to generous portions, the Antonio’s experience is an unforgettable one. Serving subs, salads, pizza by the slice or pie, pasta, and more, dine-in, take-out and delivery! 3501 Oleander Dr., #2, and 5120 S. College Rd.
■ WEBSITE: www.italianbistronc.com SLICE OF LIFE
■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (Sun., open at 11:30 a.m.)
“Slice” has become a home away from home for tourists and locals alike. Our menu includes salads, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, homemade soups, subs and, of course, pizza. We only serve the freshest and highest-quality ingredients in all of our food, and our dough is made daily with purified water. Voted “Best Pizza” and “Best Late Night Eatery.”All ABC permits. Visit us downtown at 125 Market Street, (910) 251-9444, in Wrightsville Beach at 1437 Military Cutoff Road, Suite 101, (910) 256-2229 and in Pine Valley on the corner of 17th and College Road, (910) 799-1399.
■ NEIGHBORHOOD DELIVERY OFFERED: Monkey Junction and near Independence Mall
■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: 11:30 a.m.-3 a.m., 7 days/week, 365 days/year.
■ WEBSITE: www.antoniospizzaandpasta.com
■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown,
THE ITALIAN BISTRO
Downtown and Wilmington South.
The Italian Bistro is a family-owned, full-service Italian restaurant and pizzeria located in Porters Neck. They offer a wide variety of N.Y. style thin-crust pizza and homemade Italian dishes seven days a week! The Italian Bistro strives to bring customers a variety of homemade items made with the freshest, local ingredients. Every pizza and entrée is made to order and served with a smile from our amazing staff. Their warm, inviting, atmosphere is perfect for “date night” or “family night.” Let them show you why “fresh, homemade and local” is part of everything they do. 8211 Market St. (910) 686-7774 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs., 11
■ FEATURING: Largest tequila selection in town! ■ WEBSITE: www.grabslice.com A TASTE OF ITALY Looking for authentic Italian cuisine in the Port City? Look no further than A Taste of Italy Deli. Brothers, Tommy and Chris Guarino, and partner Craig Berner, have been serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner to local and visiting diners for twenty years. The recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, and after one bite you feel like you’re in your mamas’ kitchen. Along with the hot and cold lunch menu, they also carry a large variety of deli sides and made-from-scratch desserts. Or, if
you’re looking to get creative in your own kitchen, A Taste of Italy carries a wide selection of imported groceries, from pasta to olive oils, and everything in between. And last but certainly not least, allow them to help you make any occasion become a delicious Italian experience with their catering or call ahead ordering. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Friday 8:00am-8:00pm, Saturday 8:30am-7:00pm, Sunday 9:30am-4:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.atasteofitalydeli.com ■ FEATURING: Sclafani goods, Polly-O cheese, Ferrara Torrone and much, much more!
MEXICAN LA COSTA MEXICAN RESTAURANT With three locations to serve Wilmingtonians, La Costa is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m with lunch specials. Their full dinner menu (from 3 p.m. on) offers the best in Mexican cuisine across the city. From top-sellers, like fajitas, quesadillas and burritos, to chef’s specialty items, like molcajete or borrego, a taste of familiar and exotic can be enjoyed. All of La Costa’s pico de gallo, guacamole, salsas, chile-chipotle, enchilada and burrito sauces are made in house daily. Add to it a 16-ounce margarita, which is only $4.95 on Mondays and Tuesdays at all locations, and every meal is complete. Serving the Port City since1996, folks can dine indoors at the Oleander and both Market Street locations, or dine alfresco at both Market Street locations. 3617 Market St.; 8024 Unit 1 Market St.; 5622 Oleander Dr. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs until 11
a.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri. and Sat. until 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown and Ogden ■ WEBSITE: www.lacostamexicanrestauranwilmington.com
SANDWICHES HWY 55 BURGERS, SHAKES AND FRIES Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries in Wilmington—on Carolina Beach Rd.—is bringing a fresh All-American diner experience with never-frozen burgers, sliced cheesesteaks piled high on steamed hoagies, and frozen custard made in-house every day. Founded in Eastern North Carolina in 1991, Hwy 55 reflects founder Kenney Moore’s commitment to authentic hospitality and fresh food. Lunch and dinner is grilled in an open-air kitchen, and they serve you at your table—with a smile. 6331 Carolina Beach Rd., (910) 793-6350 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday - Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. . ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Delicious burgers and homemade shakes! ■ WEBSITE: www.hwy55.com/locations/wilmington-carolina-beach-rd J. MICHAEL’S PHILLY DELI The Philly Deli celebrated their 38th anniversary in August 2017. Thier first store was located in Hanover Center—the oldest shopping center in Wilmington. Since, two more Philly Delis have been added: one at Porters Neck and one at Monkey
Gingerbread and cinnamon with a touch of white chocolate topped with house made whipped cream
Featuring over 1000 labels with beer and wine on tap • Free Weekly Wine Tastings • Educational Classes • 14 Wines by the Glass • Live Music • Beer Specials • Gift Certificates • Wine Tools
FOLLOW US ON
5226 S. COLLEGE RD., 9B (between Cape Fear Seafood and Felix Cafe) Check us out online at www.soifdevin.com, or catch us on Facebook and Instagram 910-338-4027 • Open Tues.-Thur. 11am-8pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-10pm encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 23
Junction. The Philly Deli started out by importing all of their steak meat and hoagie rolls straight from Amoroso Baking Company, located on 55th Street in downtown Philadelphia! It’s a practice they maintain to this day. We also have a great collection of salads to choose from, including the classic chef’s salad, chicken salad, and tuna salad, all made fresh every day in our three Wilmington, NC restaurants. 8232 Market St., 3501 Oleander Dr., 609 Piner Rd. ■ OPEN: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday, 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday - Saturday. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck, North and South Wilmington, ■ WEBSITE: https://phillydeli.com ON A ROLL Roll on into OAR—a fusion of American-JewishItalian deli fare, interspersed in seasonal specialties with a Southern accent. Every customer will receive freshly made-toorder sandwiches, wraps and salads, with the freshest of ingredients, all to ensure top quality. And when the place is hopping, it is well worth the wait. Whether choosing to dine in or take out—we deliver—On a Roll is the downtown deli to enjoy homemade grub. Come make us your favorite! 125 Grace St., (910) 622-2700 ■ SERVING LUNCH: Open Mon-Sun., 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 24-hour catering available. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: Check us out on Facebook!
ITALIAN BISTRO
WWW.ITALIANBISTRONC.COM
SEAFOOD CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY Founded in 2008 by Evans and Nikki Trawick, Cape Fear Seafood Company has become a local hotspot for the freshest, tastiest seafood in the area. With it’s growing popularity, the restaurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to locations in Porters Neck and Waterford in Leland. “We are a dedicated group of individuals working together as a team to serve spectacular food, wine and spirits in a relaxed and casual setting,” restaurateur Evans
Trawick says. “At CFSC every dish is prepared with attention to detail, quality ingredients and excellent flavors. Our staff strives to accommodate guests with a sense of urgency and an abundance of southern hospitality.” Cape Fear Seafood Company has been recognized by encore magazine for best seafood in 2015, as well as by Wilmington Magazine in 2015 and 2016, and Star News from 2013 through 2016. Monkey Junction: 5226 S. College Road Suite 5, 910-799-7077. Porter’s Neck: 140 Hays Lane #140, 910-681-1140. Waterford: 143 Poole Rd., Leland, NC 28451 ■ SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER: 11:30am-4pm
courtesy photo daily; Mon.-Thurs.., 4pm-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 4pm-10pm; Sun., 4pm-8:30pm. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, north Wilmington and Leland ■ WESBITE: www.capefearseafoodcompany.com CATCH Serving the Best Seafood in South Eastern North Carolina. Wilmington’s Native Son, 2011 James Beard Award Nominee, 2013 Best of Wilmington “Best Chef” winner, Chef Keith Rhodes explores the Cape Fear Coast for the best it has to offer. We feature Wild Caught & Sustainably raised Sea-
Participating Shops 1. Gravity Records 2. Luna Caffe 3. Love, Lydia Bakery & Cafe 4. Waterline Brewing Co. (Waterline Crawl Hours 12pm-5pm)
5. 24 South Coffee House 6. Brooklyn Cafe 7. Boombalatti’s 8. Folks Cafe Ticket check in at Gravity Records 24 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 25
food. Organic and locally sourced produce & herbs provide the perfect compliment to our fresh Catch. Consecutively Voted Wilmington’s Best Chef 2008, 09 & 2010. Dubbed “Modern Seafood Cuisine” we offer an array Fresh Seafood & Steaks, including our Signature NC Sweet Potato Salad. Appetizers include our Mouth watering “Fire Cracker” Shrimp, Crispy Cajun Fried NC Oysters & Blue Crab Claw Scampi, & Seafood Ceviche to name a few. Larger Plates include, Charleston Crab Cakes, Flounder Escovitch & Miso Salmon. Custom Entree request gladly accommodated for our Guest. (Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergies) Hand-crafted seasonal desserts. Full ABC Permits. 6623 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28405, 910-799-3847. ■ SERVING DINNER: Mon.-Sat. 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Acclaimed Wine List ■ WEBSITE: www.catchwilmington.com DOCK STREET OYSTER BAR Voted Best Oysters for over 10 years by encore readers, you know what you can find at Dock Street Oyster Bar. But we have a lot more than oysters! Featuring a full menu of seafood, pasta, and chicken dishes from $4.95-$25.95, there’s something for everyone at Dock Street. You’ll have a great time eating in our “Bohemian-Chic” atmosphere, where you’ll feel just as comfort able in flip flops as you would in a business suit. Located at 12 Dock St in downtown Wilmington. Open for lunch and dinner, 7 days a week. (910) 762-2827. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Fresh daily steamed oysters.
■ WEBSITE: www.dockstreetoysterbar.net MICHAEL’S SEAFOOD’S RESTAURANT Established in 1998, Michael’s Seafood Restaurant is locally owned and operated by Shelly McGowan and managed by her team of culinary professionals. Michael’s aspires to bring you the highest quality and freshest fin fish, shell fish, mollusks, beef, pork, poultry and produce. Our menu consists of mainly locally grown and made from scratch items. We count on our local fishermen and farmers to supply us with seasonal, North Carolina favorites on a daily basis. Adorned walls include awards such as 3 time gold medalist at the International Seafood Chowder Cook-Off, Entrepreneur of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Encores readers’ choice in Best Seafood to name a few. 1206 N. Lake Park Blvd. (910) 458-7761 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days 11 am – 9 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach ■ FEATURING: Award-winning chowder, local seafood and more! ■ WEBSITE: www.MikesCfood.com OCEANIC Voted best seafood restaurant in Wilmington, Oceanic provides oceanfront dining at its best. Located in Wrightsville Beach, Oceanic is one of the most visited restaurants on the beach. Choose from a selection of seafood platters, combination plates and daily fresh fish. For land lovers, try their steaks, chicken or pasta dishes. Relax on the pier or dine inside. Oceanic is also the perfect location for memorable events, such as wedding ceremonies & receptions, birthday gatherings, anniversary parties and more. Large groups welcome. Private event space available. 703 S. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach. (910) 256.5551.
a grilled cheese joint OLD SCHOOL CLASSIC - NEW SCHOOL TWIST
124 Princess St, Wilmington, NC 28401 Mon. - Sat. 11am-9pm • Closed Sun. (910) 399-1263 • www.crustilm.com • @crust_ilm 26 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & SUNDAY BRUNCH: Mon – Sat 11am – 11pm, Sunday 10am – 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Dine on renovated Crystal Pier. ■ WEBSITE: www.OceanicRestaurant.com THE PILOT HOUSE The Pilot House Restaurant is Wilmington’s premier seafood and steak house with a touch of the South. We specialize in local seafood and produce. Featuring the only Downtown bar that faces the river and opening our doors in 1978, The Pilot House is the oldest restaurant in the Downtown area. We offer stunning riverfront views in a newly-renovated relaxed, casual setting inside or on one of our two outdoor decks. Join us for $5.00 select appetizers 7 days a week and live music every Friday and Saturday nigh on our umbrella deck. Large parties welcome. Private event space available. 910-343-0200 2 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11am9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am3pm. Kids menu ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Riverfront Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Fresh local seafood specialties, Riverfront Dining, free on-site parking ■ MUSIC: Outside Every Friday and Saturday ■ WEBSITE: www.pilothouserest.com SHUCKIN’ SHACK Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar has two locations in the Port City area. The original Shack is located in Carolina Beach at 6A N. Lake Park Blvd. (910-458-7380) and our second location is at 109 Market Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington (910-833-8622). The Shack is the place you want to be to catch your favorite sports team on 7 TV’s carrying all major sports packages. A variety of fresh seafood is available daily including oysters, shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab legs. Shuckin’ Shack has expanded its menu now offering fish tacos, crab cake sliders, fried oyster poboys, fresh salads, and more. Come in and check out the Shack’s daily lunch, dinner, and drink specials. It’s a Good Shuckin’ Time! ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Carolina Beach Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-2am; Sun: Noon-2am, Historic Wilmington: Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat: 11amMidnight. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach/Downtown ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials. Like us on Facebook! ■ WEBSITE: www.TheShuckinShack.com STEAM RESTAURANT AND BAR Steam is bringing American cuisine to Wilmington using locally sourced goods and ingredients. With an extensive wine and beer selection, plenty of cocktails, indoor/outdoor seating, and beautiful views of the Cape Fear River, Steam is the area’s new goto restaurant. Reservations recommended. Open seven days a week!, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. 9 Estell Lee Pl, (910) 726-9226 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Lunch: 11 a.m. 5 p.m. Dinner: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. Bar: 11 a.m.-Until. Menu Bar: 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.steamrestaurantilm.com
SOUTHERN CASEY’S BUFFET In Wilmington, everyone knows where to go for solid
country cooking. That place is Casey’s Buffet, winner of encore’s Best Country Cookin’/Soul Food and Buffet categories. “Every day we are open, somebody tells us it tastes just like their grandma’s or mama’s cooking,” co-owner Gena Casey says. Gena and her husband Larry run the show at the Oleander Drive restaurant where people are urged to enjoy all food indigenous to the South: fried chicken, barbecue, catfish, mac‘n’cheese, mashed potatoes, green beans, chicken‘n’dumplings, biscuits and homemade banana puddin’ are among a few of many other delectable items. 5559 Oleander Drive. (910) 798-2913. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesdays. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Pig’s feet and chitterlings. ■ WEBSITE: www.caseysbuffet.com RX RESTAURANT & BAR Located in downtown Wilmington, Rx Restaurant and Bar is here to feed your soul, serving up Southern cuisine made with ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. The Rx chef is committed to bringing fresh food to your table, so the menu changes daily based on what he finds locally. Rx drinks are as unique as the food—and just what the doctor ordered. Join us for a dining experience you will never forget! 421 Castle St.; 910 399-3080. ■ SERVING BRUNCH & DINNER: Tues-Thurs, 5-10pm; Fri-Sat, 5-10:30pm; Sun., 10am-3pm and 5-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.rxwilmington.com
SPORTS BAR CAROLINA ALE HOUSE Voted best new restaurant AND best sports bar of 2010 in Wilmington, Carolina Ale House is the place to be for award-winning food, sports and fun. Located on College Rd. near UNC W, this lively sportsthemed restaurant. Covered and open outdoor seating is available. Lunch and dinner specials are offered daily, as well as the coldest $2 and $3 drafts in town. 317 S. College Rd. (910) 791.9393. ■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: 11am2am daily. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: 40 HD TVs and the biggest HD projector TVs in Wilmington. ■ WEBSITE: www.CarolinaAleHouse.com
TAPAS/WINE BAR THE FORTUNATE GLASS WINE BAR An intimate venue showcasing globally sourced wines, plus creative small plates and craft beers. The serene ambiance is created by the beautiful wall mural, elegant glass tile bar, castle rocked walls and intimate booths. There are wines from all regions, with 60 wines by the glass and 350 wines available by the bottle. Food consists of numerous small plates, fine cheeses, cured meats and decadent desserts that will compliment any wine selection. ■ SERVING DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Tues. - Thur., 4 p.m. - midnight; Fri., 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. - midnight. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown, 29 S Front St. ■ FEATURING: Weekly free wine tasting Tues., 6 - 8 p.m. Small plates, and wine and beer specials. ■ WEBSITE: www.fortunateglass.com
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 27
28 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
EVENT BOOKING SPECIAL Save $250 off your next event at Ironclad
Ironclad is celebrating the Holidays and you save. Must book by Jan. 31, 2019
Limited Release Bourbon Barrrel Bo ck
Now being served for the first time - Ironclad Brewed Kombucha
HOLD YOUR NEXT EVENT AT IRONCLAD BREWERY! Comfortably holds over 400 people!
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL BREWERIES! 6 IN DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON, 18 IN THE REGION & MORE COMING, YES!
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 29
Join us for our
NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH Dec. 31 • 9:45 pm-12:45am Live music by Cheyenne Champion and Friendly Fire
2101 Market St
Free admission!
30 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
Midnight Champagne Toast
GRUB & GUZZLE>>FEATURE
TOODALOO, 2018!
Top 10 roundup of the best bites of the year
F
BY: FANNY SLATER
rom the gooey to the melty to the citrusy and sweet, I’ve encountered many OMG-worthy Wilmington eats over the last 12 months. As I’ve chomped my way through the culinary landscape of our city, I’ve been making mental notes— not of the meals that have simply been satisfying or given me all the feels, but the ones that have crossed my eyes, curled my toes, and actually slowed me down from drinking my beer. So, here you have it: My top 10 most memorable Wilmington bites of 2018.
Buffalo Baby from CheeseSmith Co.
2018 brought the arrival of our very first grilled-cheese food truck, compliments of owners Brendan and Molly Curnyn. Their menu is loaded with thoughtful combinations of spicy, tangy, sweet and creamy— and the Buffalo Baby is the game-changer of the bunch. Buttery Havarti, tender Buffalo-braised chicken, homemade buttermilk ranch, and quick-pickled carrot and celery slaw. Picture an elegantly deconstructed plate of juicy sauce-smothered wings and fresh veggies turned on its ass into an epic grilled cheese that pairs like a boss with local brews. All hail, Buffalo Baby (and the actual baby that Molly is currently baking—congrats, y’all!).
Winter Gnudi from Pinpoint
I know, I know: I’m biased. I think Pinpoint is not so much a restaurant, but more a glorious gift that fell from the heavens and landed downtown on Market Street. What? Don’t you hear angels sing when you down a platter of their raw oysters? Well, when I bit into a forkful of the seasonal gnudi on Pinpoint’s winter lineup, I think those angels smacked me right in the mouth! The delicate dish features deceptively light gnocchi-like ricotta, surrounded by butternut squash, crisp greens, chestnuts, and earthy fried sage leaves. Oh, and did I mention a lemon brown-butter drizzle? Stop. It.
Rebel Yell from Rebellion
From lovingly rubbed and smoked wings to a fried burrata plate with beet butter, diners would be hard-pressed to find something not made from scratch in Rebellion’s kitchen. Yes, the sandwich I’m dubbing one of my best bites did happen
to be featured on Food Network, but that’s the least of my concerns. I’m telling you: Eat the Rebel Yell merely because it’s the only club you’ll ever want to end up face-down in. This bad boy is stocked with smoked turkey, gooey white American, bacon, tomato, and Mornay (a sharp, nutty white cheese sauce), and piled onto buttery sourdough. Comfort, meet food.
Buffalo Shrimp from Anne Bonny’s
I’ve been a big fan of Anne Bonny’s since the day they opened their doors ... err, well, I guess they don’t really have a door. The floating barge has become a warm-weather staple, and they serve up some of the tastiest frozen booze around (two Dreamsicles, please). Their menu has slowly expanded and includes more scratch-made items, and while the Buffalo shrimp basket may seem like a standard app, it’s so much more. Each ethereal morsel is jumbo, lightly battered, sauced to perfection and topped with funky blue-cheese crumbles. Add a side of garlicky homemade ranch and an ice-cold Modelo and it’s sublime summer day on the Riverwalk.
Yellowfin Tuna Wrap from Shark Bar and Kitchen
We’re a water town, so everyone offers their take on ahi. I wasn’t expecting to have my flip-flops blown off by Shark Bar’s yellowfin wrap—but that’s mainly because I’m still a little sore they took the place of my favorite Wrightsville Beach dive bar (pours one out for Buddy’s). Putting those personal sentiments aside, I gave SB’s tuna a turn. Tucked inside the seafood handheld is peppery watercress, Napa cabbage, red onion, carrots and wasabi aioli. The fresh, crunchy veggies are a great textural contrast to the silky rare tuna, but the ginger-wasabi dressing (creamy, spicy, and oh-so-zippy) put this on the 2018 map for me.
Fried Pickles and Off-the-Ranch Sauce at Rolled and Baked Pickles at a breakfast joint? Don’t act
CRY MORE! MORE! MORE! The Rebel Yell turkey sandwich from Rebellion tops one of Fanny’s favorite eats of 2018. Photo by Shannon R. Gentry
like you’ve never craved weird things in the morning. I like to think of myself as a fried-pickle connoisseur, and R&B’s version is extraordinary in every way. First, the crackly, seasoned cornmeal crust. Second, they are spears, not chips. The bomb breading encases R&B’s housemade, long and thin-sliced pickles, which are briny, sweet, and have a hint of garlic and dill. The “Offthe-Ranch Sauce” is a thick, garden-fresh, herby pool just begging for a dunk.
Oyster Po Boy from Waterman’s Brewing
I appreciate a sandwich that doubles as a life raft. There are only a few quality ingredients needed to really nail an exquisite Po Boy, and Waterman’s doesn’t skimp on any of the steps. Head chef Andrew Stanley enjoys completely normal hobbies, like making his own bologna and rubbing boar down with achiote peppers. That being said, imagine what they do when it comes to the simplicity of a classic New Orleans Po Boy. It goes like this: gorgeously golden-brown oyster nuggets tucked into pillowy French bread, topped with sliced seasoned tomato, crunchy cold lettuce, tart pickles, and a citrusy remoulade that you’ll be upset got on your shirt and not in your mouth.
Front Street Brewery has been revving up their culinary engines as of late. In the past year, their kitchen has made sure locals know they’re not any ol’ tourist trap. Case in point: Pretzel Chicken. Don’t let your dining eyes float right by this one on the menu. Ask the staff and they’re sure to tell you this is their jam. I took their word for it a few months back, and the pretzelencrusted tenders tossed in ‘bama sauce (a white mayo-and-vinegar based BBQ sauce) with housemade pickles on fluffy brioche instantly became a no-brainer for my yearly wrap-up.
Key Lime Bites from Love, Lydia
I’ve enjoyed many a sweet end to a Pinpoint meal when pastry chef Lydia Clopton was at the helm. Now that she’s opened her very own (adorable and delicious) breakfast establishment and coffee shop, I don’t have to wait until dinner to get my hands on her goodies. (That came out wrong. Sorry, Lydia.) At this year’s Wilmington Wine & Food Festival—also known as one of the worst downpours in the city’s history—my saving grace from the weather was a square of Lydia’s key lime pie. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the velvety, tart filling, I would have stood in the rain all day for one of these bites.
Skytown’s Deep-Fried Sausage Gravy Bites
My husband is the biscuits-and-gravy orderer in our family, so I was expecting him to enjoy Skytown’s sausage gravy bites far more than me. I was wrong. We both went equally gaga for the sinful starter. Chef Stephen Durley is doing delightful things with ‘cue, but his spin on this Southern breakfast is a standout, for sure. Peel apart one of the crispy round fritters to find savory pork tangled with a luscious white gravy. I dipped mine in their signature ranch and I’m not sorry.
Pretzel Chicken Sandwich from Front Street Brewery encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 31
PORT CITY FOOD LOVERS ...
REJOICE!
MORE DAYS! BETTER DEALS! winter 2019!
participating restaurants: NORTH WILMINGTON
Greenline Pizza & Steak The Italian Bistro J. Michael's Philly Deli La Costa Mexican Restaurant The Melting Pot Osteria Cicchetti Roko Italian Cuisine Si! Señor Modern Mex Symposium Restaurant & Bar True Blue Butcher & Table
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH Antonio's Pizza & Pasta Bluewater Waterfront Grill Boca Bay Watermans Brewing Topsail Steamer
MIDTOWN
Antonio's Pizza & Pasta Blue Surf Cafe Bonefish Grill Carolina Ale House Casey’s Buffet Greeline Pizza & Steak Hops Supply Co. J. Michael's Philly Deli La Costa Mexican Restaurant Might As Well Bar & Grill Okami Japanese Steakhouse Olympia Restaurant Round Bagels and Donuts Yoshi Sushi Your Pie
Michael's Seafood Restaurant
Circa 1922 Crust Kitchen & Cocktails Dram + Morsel Elijah’s The George The Little Dipper Nikki’s Fresh Gourmet & Sushi On A Roll Pilot House Pour Taproom Ruth's Chris Steak House Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar Steam Restaurant and Bar YoSake
DOWNTOWN ILM
LELAND
SOUTH WILMINGTON
Antonio's Pizza & Pasta The Greeks Henry's Restaurant and Bar Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries J. Michael's Philly Deli Niche Kitchen & Bar Pizzeria IL Forno Roko Italian Cuisine Seaside Bagels Slainte Irish Pub
PLEASURE ISLAND Beer Bellies Bourbon Street
The Joyce Irish Pub
www.encorerestaurantweek.com 32 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
721 Surry Street Wilmington, NC 28401
910-557-BREW
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 33
GRUB & GUZZLE>>FEATURE
BREWERY WITH A BELGIAN FOCUS:
Mad Mole Brewery is tucked away at Bradley Creek, ready to serve deliciousness in every pint BY: JOAN WILKERSON
ing the brewery to installing equipment; he was integral in every part of the process. The company’s collaborative nature is palpable when visiting. There’s a lot of ownership being taken by all parties involved—a really positive situation to witness.
“H
e got a homebrew kit for Christmas,” said Martin de Jongh, coowner of Mad Mole Brewing, of his business partner Ole Pederson. “And he called me up and asked me to come over.”
The whole Mad Mole team consists of less than 10 employees, including Blake, Molly Braxton (bar manager) and a handful of dedicated bartenders. Partners in the company include de Jongh and Pederson, but also Chris Worden of Worden Brothers, Inc. (where de Jongh and Pederson work their day jobs) and local attorney Thomas Varnam.
The coworkers of 22 years bonded over a mutual love for craft beer a long time ago, but the obsession of creating began about eight years ago when the company they worked for merged offices and landed in Wilmington. “It started, you know, stirring on the stove,” reminisced de Jongh. “It got to where it was like, ‘Well how do we do this better? How can we do it better?’ And then it just got way out of control.” And now they own a brewery near Bradley Creek, off where Oleander and Military Cutoff merge. Mad Mole is nestled in a strip on Boathouse Road—an intimate space, with ample natural light. It’s a great stop for a beer after work with a few buddies, with a list boasting styles like Raspberry Kölsch and Belgian Golden Strong. Plus they sell wine and cider, and sodas for the little ones.
IN THE DETAILS: The Mad Mole Brewery is all specially crafted, from suds to seats, for any craftbeer enthusiast’s wants. Courtesy photo, Mad Mole
They pride themselves on their Belgian focus, and they should. For sippers a little leery of the Belgian oeuvre, I recommend trying the
Chop On By... LADIES NIGHT WEDNESDAYS 1/2-off throwing for ladies 1/2-off wine by the glass
TOURNAMENT TUESDAYS 8 p.m. - 11 p.m. 16 spots • $25 buy-in • $200 cash pot!
Penitent Mole, Belgian Golden Strong. It’s 9.6 percent ABV, so I’d advise getting a half pour. The beer is a coy representation of tradition, presenting notes of banana and clove without being too aggressive or spice-driven, as I’ve heard Belgian skeptics talk of before. “Belgians have a unique following,” according to de Jongh. “There’s a very niche amount of people, but I like to think we’ve actually started converting people.” Without a doubt they have. One of two breweries in town lean toward making Belgian styles (Flytrap Brewing being the other). They introduce locals to liquid they may not have encountered previously. “The Belgian Blonde is a pretty entry-level beer as far as Belgian styles go,” head brewer Neil Blake remarks. As Pederson expands further, because of unique flavors produced by Belgian beers, they can be accessible to wine drinkers or folks who prefer not to drink beer at all. But hop heads need not be nervous, the Mole has us covered. Blake didn’t walk in the door fully versed in the Belgian catalog. Pederson and de Jongh had to provide him with early education, which he took to magnificently. What he did know was IPAs, so he’s keeping the Mad Mole list diverse.
1122 S. 3rd St. • Reserve a lane: 910-833-5863 • axesandalliesnc.com
ILM’s new axe-throwing bar! • Gift certificates available for the holidays! 34 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
Serendipity is what brought Blake to the team. After he graduated from the Appalachian State University Brewing Science program, he came back to his hometown of Wilmington and started pounding the pavement looking for a job. It so happened the Mad Mole team was looking for a new member. Blake assisted with all of the nitty gritty, from plumb-
They have an 7-barrel all-electric brewing system, which caused some initial concerns in regards to energy usage. With the help of Cape Fear Solar, they installed 63 solar panels on the roof of the brewery to provide 22 kilowatts of energy. The decision was made to help with cost mitigation and to be environmentally responsible. Being active in the community takes shape in many different ways, and for Mad Mole one way is serving the environment. Seven months have passed since the Mole opened its doors, and some folks are still wondering where they got their name. It’s simple, see: “M” in Martin and Ole’s full first name combines for “Mole.” The owners’ affinity for science and scientists ties the brand together. Inside the taproom are famous portraits of “mad” scientists and a smattering of Edison bulbs adding to the ambience. And beer fans shouldn’t overlook the bar top; there’s a murder mystery to be solved. While there are not current plans to distribute outside the taproom, Mad Mole does fill growlers and crowlers to go. They keep their Facebook page up to date with music schedules, food trucks and upcoming events—the next being a benefit for Project SOAR on January 10.
DETAILS:
Mad Mole Brewing
6309 Boathouse Road, Unit C (910) 859-8115 Mon.-Wed., 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Thurs., noon - 9 p.m. Fri. - Sat., noon - 11 p.m. Sun., noon - 8 p.m. madmolebrewing.com
s â&#x20AC;&#x2122; n o t g n i m l i W st salon! e w e n
Bridal parties & special occasions welcomed Appointments preferred, walk-ins welcomed Complimentary wine with services Book online today with Booksy! encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 35
EXTRA>>FEATURE
FIVE, FOUR, THREE, TWO...
encore counts down the ways to ring in the new year across ILM toast, overnight stay, valet parking and New Year’s Day breakfast for $549 per couple. Add an additional night’s stay for $99. Visit embassysuiteswilmington.com.
BY: SHANNON R. GENTRY
E
veryone rings in the new year differently. Some folks like the lowkey drinks leading up to midnight, while others like to dress to the nines for multi-course meals and ballroom dancing; others want something in between, or simply free of charge.
NYE with Onward, Soldiers
Featuring Driskill and Chris Frisina Bourgie Nights 127 Princess St.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, here are some events around town offering anything from glitz and glamour to laugh-out-loud entertainment.
Onward, Soldiers just started recording their next record and plan to play almost all their new tunes at their New Year’s Eve bash at Bourgie Nights. This also is the last chance to see Onward, Soldiers again until summer 2019. They’ll share the stage with Driskill, who just released a new song “Hopeless Romantic,” as well as Chris Frisina, who will play off of his latest album, “Fences,” which also features Onward’s Sean Thomas Gerard. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
Let us begin the countdown to 2019...
NYE Countdown Party at the Goat Goat & Compass 710 N. 4th St.
For folks looking for a low-key countdown sans the hustle and bustle of downtown, Goat & Compass on North Fourth is celebrating the end of 2018 with half-off everything. No joke, all the beer and booze in the bar will be half price. There’s no cover to get in, party starts at 7 p.m. and there’s a champagne toast at midnight.
NYE with Rosebud Baker
Dead Crow Comedy Room 265 N. Front St.
Some of us need a good laugh after this year… Rosebud Baker might talk about “taking an emotional shit” which came with quitting drinking almost 10 years ago; signs of astrology; the competitive sport of meditating; or myriad of topics which helped make this New Yorkbased comedian, actress and writer the “New Face” at the prestigious Montreal Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in 2018. Baker has an early show at 7 p.m. and later set at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $17 at deadcrowcomedy.com.
“Any Shade” of Masquerade Party w/ Striking Copper Waterline Brewing Co. 721 Surry St.
Whether looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve “in style” or not, Waterline’s “Any Shade of Masquerade” themed party is sure to be a throwdown. Featur-
5th Annual New Year’s Eve Gala Beau Rivage Golf & Resort 649 Rivage Promenade
Another fun and fancy free evening (emphasis on the “fancy”) is happening at Beau Rivage’s annual New Year’s Eve Gala to benefit NHRMC Foundation. They’ve enlisted a DJ from Party Gras Entertainment to keep people dancing throughout the night, while Catering Thyme will keep them full until the ball drops. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be butlered throughout the evening, and food stations scattered throughout the ballroom. Memories will be captured by their photo booth, while others might be lost LAUGH AT 2018: Rosebud Baker is spending New Year’s Eve at Wilmington’s Dead Crow Comedy Room for with the liquor ice luge. Tickets are $75 a two-show run leading up to 2019. Photo by Mindy Tucker per person and also include party favors, a cash bar, silent auction, prize raffles and ing special menu items on site starting at Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilminga complimentary toast at midnight. Event 6 p.m., Wilmington’s Americana darlings ton Riverfront tickets range from $75-$145 per person, of Striking Copper will take the stage at with proceeds donated to NHRMC’s Re9 Estell Lee Place 9 p.m., and complimentary champagne Sometimes it’s worth an extra dollar or habilitation Hospital. Find more details at (or beer) toast at midnight. Folks can get three to ensure your last night and meal beaurivagegolfonline.com. fancy and creative with their frocks or don of the year is a special one. For couples complimentary masks (or not), while othlooking to plan an evening away from ers can come in their best jeans and sunhome. Embassy Suites is offering a par- New Year’s Eve Dinner glasses. No cover. ty package, so to speak, with their New Sweet n Savory Cafe Year’s Eve Soirèe On The River. The 1611 Pavilion Place evening starts with a four-course dinSweet n Savory is serving up a formal New Year’s Eve Soirèe On The ner and open bar, dance party with Port four-course New Year’s Eve dinner to City Shakedown, midnight champagne pair nicely with any other plans for NYE. River
36 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
This night of fine-dining includes the whole nine years—from fine tablecloths and linens, down to romantic candlelight and flowers—to complement any course combination you choose. Prices are based on a half-dozen main-course options, including but not limited to surf n turf ($48), two-day braised veal short rib ($42), half rack of lamb ($46) or eggplant rollatini ($36). Local musician Joshua Ward will play ambient music from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Reservations are required with seating times from 4:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Diners who book tables at 5:30 p.m. or earlier, or 9 p.m. or later, get a $5 discount for per person. Regular menus will not be offered but they will have a limited children’s menu. See a full NYE dinner menu or make reservations at sweetnsavory.cafe/new-years-eve-dinner-menu.
Museum courtyard. New Year’s Noon is included in regular admission ($9.75 per person) or is free for members. Learn more at playwilmington.org.
New Year’s Eve Blueberry Drop Historic Train Depot 115 S. Dickerson St., Burgaw
There are a couple of family friendly ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve, albeit a little earlier. The latest event rounding out our list this year is the first annual New Year’s Eve Blueberry Drop presented by the Town of Burgaw, Pender County and N.C. Blueberry Festival. CFCC’s Burgaw Center welding students constructed the “blueberry” frame, while dark blue fabric and lights will be added to the giant berry before showtime. Eagles tribute band Eaglewing will kick things off at 5 p.m. Two Komorebi fire arts demonstrations will take place at 5:45 p.m. and 6:35 p.m., before the official Blueberry drops from a 6-foot-high aerial platform over the Historic Train Depot at 7 p.m. Visit the event Facebook page for more.
NYE Dinner and Celebration Henry’s 2508 Independence Blvd.
For a tasty way to end 2018 without the black-tie or ball gown, Henry’s is celebrating New Year’s Eve with live acoustic music from Josh Lewis from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m., party favors, bubbly toast at midnight, and of course, dinner. They’ll have their regular dinner menu available plus special New Year’s Eve features to come. They’re also taking care of hangovers the next morning with a New Year’s Day brunch featuring their Kickin’ Bloody Mary, and $12 plates of traditional goodluck plate of black-eyed peas and collard greens. Call 910-793-2929 for details or reservations.
U’Nique’s New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball The Terraces on Sir Tyler 1826 Sir Tyler Dr.
Endless cocktails. Catered dinner by Middle of the Island. Champagne toast. Packed dance floor? Sounds like a party! Specifically, it’s U’Nique’s New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball at The Terraces on Sir Tyler. Highlights of the evening include Sonic Spectrum playing an eclectic mix of funk, rock, pop and souland and the person donning “Best Mask” will receive a prize. Presented by U’Nique Community Fund, 100 percent of all proceeds benefit their work with mental health awareness, suicide prevention and education in Wilmington. Tickets are $100 per person, or $950 for a table of 10. Note that tickets will not be available at the door. Visit www.uniquecommunityfund.org.
Ibiza’s New Year’s Eve Party
More New Year’s Eve events can be found on encore’s calendar, page 40, or at encorepub.com.
BLUEBERRY DROP: There’s a new family and kid-friendly event to celebrate the new year : the NYE Blueberry Drop in Burgaw features a giant handwelded blueberry. Courtesy photo
Ibiza Nightclub 118 Market St.
Ibiza throws down like no other. So anyone looking to obliterate the dance floor on New Year’s Eve, this is the place to do it. Ibiza’s New Year’s Eve Party will have a small army of DJs, go-go dancers, $1,000 balloon drop, and—yes—complimentary champagne toast at midnight. It’s $20 to get into Ibiza’s biggest party of the year. Anyone who purchases their tickets online can skip the line with express entry until 11 p.m. Visit ibiza.ticketspice.com/nye-18.
New Year’s Noon
Children’s Museum of Wilmington 116 Orange St.
Not everyone needs, wants or can stay up until midnight—especially kiddos with a bedtime, which is why the Children’s Museum of Wilmington’s New Year’s Noon remains on our NYE roundup. Sub champagne with a juice toast to 2019 and replace “masquerade” mask with makeyour-own party crown, and countdown the New Year with streamer sticks, glittery slime and confetti toss in the Children’s
APPLICATIONS AT WWW.BROOKLYNARTSNC.COM
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38 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
“A GUARANTEED GET-HAPPY HIT!”
DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY Ray Kennedy
visit
www.thalianhall.org for or call (910) 632-2285
tickets
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HAPPENINGS & EVENTS ACROSS WILMINGTON
TO-DO CALENDAR
new year’s eve PRE-NYE LATIN DANCE PARTY
Dec. 29, 10:30pm: Kick off the festivities by doing the salsa, bachata, merengue, cha cha, kizomba and more! Champagne toast at midnight! $10 cover; full bar w/drink specials. Islands Fresh Mex Grill, 260 Racine Dr.
RETRO DISCO NYE WITH BEEHIVE BLONDES
Dec. 31, 8pm: The Beehive Blondes are headed back to Tails for their signature Disco Hive. Fun and non-stop dancing in a beautiful setting on Front St. Bar opens from 7.30-
1am. The Beehive Blondes 9.30-12.30am. $25 cover charge, tickets can be brought in advanced at Tails. Tails Piano Bar, 115 South Front St.
COSMIC GROOVE LIZARDS NYE
Dec. 31, 9pm: Come celebrate New Year’s Eve at Wrightsville Beach Brewery with the Cosmic Groove Lizards! Grab dinner and stay for 9pm to midnight show. An extra hour of craft beer topped off with a champagne toast and funky tunes. Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.
RING IN THE NEW YEAR
Dec. 31, 9pm: Two Ways to Party at Bluewa-
ter this New Years! Let’s party together at one of our New Years Eve celebrations. We have two. Join us on our second floor for live music from Uptown Easy, or dance to DJ Sir Charles spinning on our tented and heated patio. Live Band: $20/pp.Patio Party: $20/pp. Make the evening extra special and enjoy a 3-course prix fixe menu prior to joining one of our parties! Call the restaurant to reserve your table, 910-256-8500. Bluewater Waterfront Grill, 4 Marina St.
HELL’S KITCHEN NYE
Dec. 31, 9:30pm: Join us at Hell’s Kitchen for our annual NYE bash featuring the great-
est party band ever...paperwork! Come celebrate New Year’s Eve with us... Champagne Toast at Midnight! Drink Specials! Money Balloon Drop! Party Favors!! Bring all your friends for One Helluva New Year’s Eve Bash at Hell’s Kitchen! Party band. Free! Hell’s Kitchen,118 Princess St. 108 SUN SALUTATION WORKSHOP
Jan. 1, 9am: Celebrate the New Year w/108 Sun Salutations! A detoxing, meditative practice is open to all levels, you don’t have to do all 108, just do what you can! You rest when you need to. We’ll finish our practice together with a few closing postures and a lengthy relaxation. In India, the number 108 is a sacred number, suggesting completeness or wholeness. It is widely used in different contexts. There are 108 holy places of the Vaishnavas, originally there were 54 sounds in the Sanskrit alphabet, there are 108 beads on the mala (meditation prayer beads), and there also are said to be 108 Upanishads. 108 can also carry personal meaning for you on this day-dedicating each sun salutation to 108 people in your life, or listing 108 things in your mind that you feel gratitude for. $30, https://m360. us/94a7. Wilmington Yoga, 5329 Oleander Dr., Ste. 200
NYE GENTLE AND MEDITATION WORKSHOP
Jan. 1, 10am: Gentle yoga is an unhurried, therapeutic yoga approach introducing postures and breathing techniques that gradually build flexibility and strength. Gentle yoga is for absolutely anyone of any age, shape or size who wants to experience the many benefits of yoga. All levels of practice are welcome, and no experience or flexibility is necessary. We will stretch, relax and meditate in an extended practice to start your year off doing something for yourself! $30, https://m360.us/3d739. Wilmington Yoga, 5329 Oleander Dr., Ste 200
NYE WITH MACHINE GUN
Dec. 31, 6pm: 2019 Bash featuring ILM’s cover band, Machine Gun. $20 includes concert from 8pm-midnight. DJ, 1am. Seawicth will have a heated tent, red carpet, photo booth, dance floor, champagne toast at midnight, NYE party favors. Also serving a special dinner menu. SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N., Carolina Beach
NYE AT HOPLITE
Dec. 31: We will be dropping the shamrock at 7pm with our Irish Blessing and lots of fun! Come in and toast the New Year Irish time and Irish style! Hoplite Pub and Beer Garden, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach
REGGAE ROCKING NYE
Jahson & the Natty Vibez will ring in 2019 in the most Irie fashion North of Kingston Town. Party favors, champagne toast, Times Square ball drop on all big screens, in-house
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Join The n Rebellio Today
• American comfort food, with a Southern twist • Handpicked bourbons and whiskeys • House-made barrel-aged cocktails • Excellent wine selection • 30 beers on draft Mon. 4pm-12am • Tues.-Thurs. 11:30am-12am Fri. & Sat. 11:30am-1am • Sun. 11:30am-12am
15 S. Front St. 910-399-1162 www.rebellionnc.com
Peppermint Chocolate Chip
thru December
∙ Wilmington ∙ encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 41
Winners of 6 Grammy Awards ! Š
Come see Celtic Music Legends
with Paddy Moloney
March 8, 2019 at 7:30 pm At UNCWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Kenan Auditorium Get your tickets at Kenan Box Office or by calling 910.962.3500 Purchase tickets online at capefearstage.com 42 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
countdown, guest appearance by the Night Nurse. Jamaican dinner and drink specials. Free ride here in Pleasure Island Shuttle-Cab and a special deal on overnight stay—10%off at Microtel. Tickets: $15 a person or $25 a couple in advance, at the Lazy Pirate, 1801 Canal Dr. DIG AND DIVE NYE
Dec. 31, 9:30pm: Come ring in the New Year with us! $20 per person includes entry, buffet and a champagne toast at midnight! DJ SBz will be here kicking off at 9:30pm. 3525 Lancelot Ln.
SEE PAGES 36-37 FOR MORE NYE EVENTS!
events CAPE FEAR FESTIVAL OF TREES
Through Jan. 2, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Nothing could be more magical than the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Well, except for the aquarium at Christmastime. The highly anticipated annual Festival of Trees is back! Included with general admission, folks will experience the aquarium like never before, with dozens of beautifully decorated and unique Christmas trees inside. The event helps raise funds for Lower Cape Fear Hospice, which ensures everyone who needs hospice and palliative care can receive it, regardless of ability to pay. GA to aquarium NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher, 900 Loggerhead Rd. lcfhospicefoundation3233.thankyou4caring. org/2018-cape-fear-festival-of-trees
CHRISTMAS TRAIN & LIGHT SPECTACULAR
Dec. 26 and 28-29. A great way to celebrate
the season with the whole family! Come on down to marvel at synchronized light & music displays, holiday layouts running trains at twilight, visits with Santa, and take in all the festive decorations filling the museum. Hot cider & cookies top off the experience. Fridays & Saturdays 6:30-8pm to the end of Dec. GA only $5 each (kids under age 2 free). Free mini plush toy for kids (while supplies last). As well the museum will host 12 Polar Express Family Shows, Dec. 8-9, 15-16 and 2223 at 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Santa visits will be set up, with cookies and hot chocolate. Prepaid reservation required, $5, with children 2 & under, free. 505 Nutt St. CAPE FEAR MODEL RR SOCIETY
The Cape Fear Model Railroad Society will set up 32 varieties of trains and eight layouts at Independence Mall’s Dillards wing (3500 Oleander Dr.). A Christmas village will illuminate with lights galore, and The Polar Express will be set up, too. Hours are Friday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. through Dec. 30. Adults $6, children 3 to 12 $4, and under 3, free. Independence Mall, 3500 Oleander Dr. shopindependencemall.com
ISLAND OF LIGHTS
Through January: Every year around Christmas, Pleasure Island (Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Fort Fisher) transforms into a winter wonderland. The holidays kick off with the annual Lighting at the Lake Celebration, which officially begins the Island of Lights Festival. The extravagant display stays up all season long, and Dec. 15 are what the islanders call “Christmas By the Sea.” Stop by the Boardwalk from 6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. for
an abundance of family friendly holiday activities. Visit Santa for cookies and hot chocolate, hear to stories by the fire and roast JAZZ AT CAM marshmallows, listen to carolers, and make 2018-19 season 9: 1st Thurs. Sept-Apr (except some ornaments at the arts and crafts staJan.—2nd Thurs.), 6:30-8pm. Eight-concert tion. Free! pleasureislandoflights.com series has individual seat sales are available REINDEER DRAWN CARRIAGES for purchase: 910-395-5999. Enjoy dinner and Dec. 21-24, 6-10pm: Tell Grandma to get drinks at the CAM Café (910-777-2363) before out of the way! For a few nights only, Wilmor after the concert. Café reservations are alington’s horse-drawn carriage rides will be ways suggested and appreciated. Lineup: transformed into “reindeer” drawn carriage Jan. 10, 2019, La Fiesta Latin Jazz Quintet; rides! Get cozy under warm lap blankets, Feb. 7, Jon Hill Quartet; Mar. 7, Ernest Turner sing Christmas carols with your guide, Santa, Trio; Apr. 4, Brian Miller Admission: CAM/CFJS and enjoy the sights and sounds of downMembers: $12, Non-members: $20. Students town Wilmington at Christmas. Free candy with valid college ID: $10. Cameron Art Mucanes provided by Santa. $12 adults, $5 chilseum, 3201 S 17th St. dren under 12. Horsedrawn Tours. Market St. THREE REDNECK TENORS between Front and Water. www.horsedrawnDec. 19, 3pm and 7:30pm: With a star-studded tours.com staff of “America’s Got Talent” finalists, veteran Broadway and opera stars and an award-winning composer, the 3 Redneck Tenors show is a musical adventure that combines the beauty of classic opera with the humorous antics of OPEN-MIC AT TIDAL CREEK three rednecks. Follow Billy Bob, Billy Joe and Comedians, singers, songwriters, poets, yoBilly Billee in this mixing of musical genres and delers! Come out the co-op on Wednesday clashing cultures for a delightful and unique night & show us what you got! Free coffee & production. The show is a perfect mixture of tea for all performers! Mic is yours from 6 pm humor and melodious harmonies, all of which until about 8:45! Hosted by the always enteris appropriate for children, so bring the family taining Bob Sarnataro, this open mic is a laid for a night of entertainment. $15-$44. 910-632back, no pressure opportunity for performers 2285. thalianhall.org/events. Thalian Hall, 310 of all kinds to stretch those creative muscles. Chestnut St. All ages welcome. Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329 LA FIESTA LATIN JAZZ QUINTET Oleander Dr. Jan. 10, 6:30pm: Latin Jazz beat! La Fiesta Latin Jazz Quintet was formed in 2010 by band leader, saxophonist, clarinetist and composer Gregg Gelb (http://gregggelb.com/
music
charity/fundraiser
Leland’s friendly neighborhood Irish Pub with the best pub fare in town. uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu
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Food & drink specials daily Trivia every Wednesday Live music Fridays & Saturdays 26 Draft beers Irish whiskey on tap
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DISCOVER NEW MUSIC AT 98.3 THE PENGUIN
index.html) the quintet includes: Beverly Bots“Knowing Me, Knowing You”; “The Winner ford on percussion, Ramon Ortiz on drums, Takes It All”; and “Super Trouper”, Mamma JIm Crew on piano and Andy Kleindienst Mia! is a sunny, funny, enchanting tale of love, on bass. The repertoire of this high energy laughter, and friendship that you do not want to group is authentic Latin Jazz made famous miss! Tickets: thalianhall.org Thalian Hall, 310 by renowned musicians that include Tito PuChestnut St. (910) 632-2285. ente, Mongo Santamaria, Buena Vista Social EVITA Club, and Dizzy Gillespie, plus original tunes Jan. 13, 2pm and 7:30pm: Based on the historiby Gelb. La Fiesta’s first recording La Fiesta cal story of María Eva Duarte de Perón, a poor Latin Jazz Quintet was released in SeptemArgentinian girl who grows up to be the wife ber 2016. Tickets: www.cameronartmuseum. of the president of Argentina, worshipped by org, presented by Cameron Art Museum and her people. With music by Andrew Lloyd Webthe Cape Fear Jazz Society. Before and after ber and lyrics by Tim Rice, Evita has garnered the concert enjoy dinner and drinks at at CAM critical acclaim and numerous award, including Café (910.777.2363). Café reservations are seven Tony Awards and 6 Drama Desk Awards. always suggested and appreciated. $10-$20. As a young woman who longs for an acting caCameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St. reer, fame, and fortune, Eva quickly learns that her feminine wiles hold power among a culture, and a political system, run by men. Once she makes it to Buenos Aires, Evita finds fame and power in her powers of seduction, eventually SMITHSONIAN FILM: THE NORTH POLE CONseducing the rising political figure, Juan Perón, SPIRACY who becomes the President of Argentina. As Dec. 27, 2pm: Two Arctic explorers fought First Lady of Argentina, she aligns herself with harsh, bitter elements in separate quests to the poor, winning herself, and Perón, popularity be the first to reach the North Pole. Little did among Argentinians. Evita becomes a hero to they know that when they returned home, a the poor and the working class—and an enemy more vicious battle would await them. Join to the rich. A young and unknown revolutionary, our in-depth investigation into one of the great Ché, narrates the rise and fall of the beloved historical controversies of the 20th Century: matriarch of the Argentinian people. This blockWho was the first man to reach the final goal buster musical, made even more famous as a in the great Age of Exploration? Dr. Frederick 1996 Hollywood film starring Madonna and AnCook or Robert Peary? This thrilling detective tonio Banderas, shows both the righteous destory is brought to life with arresting re-enacttermination, and the ruthless power, of Argenments and insights from researchers, polar tina’s 20th century matriarch. Wilson Center, explorers and photogrammetric experts. (46 703 N. 3rd St. minutes). Free for members or with general MASTERS OF ILLUSION admission. CF Museum, 814 Market St. Jan. 14, 7:30pm: Starring the world’s greatest PLANETARIUM FILM award-winning magicians, this 21st-century Dec. 29, 3pm:“Totality: Explore the Wonder magic show is unlike anything you have seen of Eclipses” Experience the Museum’s digibefore – filled with modern illusions and arts tal planetarium with a guided tour of tonight’s of deception, performed live on stage. Watch sky. Discover how the Earth, Moon, and Sun closely as you experience things that just can’t will align for January’s lunar eclipse, expectbe done……or can they? Audiences will be ed to be visible for most of the Western Hemiheld at the edge of their seats by the jaw-dropsphere. (approx. 25 min.) Free for members ping grand illusions, and laugh out loud at the or with general admission. CF Museum, 814 hysterical comedy magic as performers from Market St. around the world combine fantasy, fervor, and PLANETARIUM: “EARTHQUAKE: EVIDENCE OF flair, with magic created in front of their very A RESTLESS PLANET” eyes. Wilson Center, 703 N. 3rd St. Dec. 30, 1pm and 3pm: Take a breathtaking tour of our ever-active planet. Fly to sites of historic earthquakes and envision a future made safer from seismic events. Narrated by Benjamin Bratt. (23 min.). Free for members MEET LOCAL ARTISTS or with general admission. Cape Fear MuseMeet working artists, and see works in progum, 814 Market St. ress. Everything from sculptures to fine jewelry in this unique location. Free parking, fun for everyone. Over 45 artist’s works to enjoy. Free, and we participate in the 4th Friday Art Walks, 6-9pm, 4th Fri. ea. mo. theArtWorks, 200 WilMAMMA MIA! lard St. Dec. 30-31, Jan. 3-6, 10-13, 17-19, 7:30pm, FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT or Sun. matinees, 3pm: Starring Sydney Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, Wilmington’s preSmith Martin, as Sophie, and Kendra Goehmier after-hours celebration of art and culture, ring-Garrett, as Donna. A mother, a daughter, 6-9pm, fourth Fri. ea. month. Art openings, artthree possible dads, and a trip down the aisle ist demonstrations, entertainment and refreshyou will never forget! On the eve of her wedments. Administered by the Arts Council of ding, Sophie Sheridan’s quest to discover Wilmington & New Hanover County, numerous her father’s identity brings three very differvenues participate. Full list: www.artscouncilofent men from her mother’s past back to the wilmington.org Greek island where they were all young together. This happiest of musicals is all about CARLEIGH SION ART Local fine artist and illustrator, Carleigh Sion, family – the one you’re born into and the one draws inspiration from the ocean and surf culthat finds you along the way. Told through the ture. Celebrate her newest collection, “Postunforgettable hits of ABBA, including “Danccards.” Meet the artist and enjoy local beer ing Queen”; “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme”; “The Name of the Game”; “Voulez Vous”; “SOS”;
film
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2019
art
theatre/auditions
SPECIALTY SHOWS: THE EVENING EXPERIMENT WITH ERIC MILLER, WEDNESDAYS 7-9PM THE FRIDAY NIGHT PANIC JAM FRIDAYS AT 8PM ACOUSTIC CAFE SATURDAYS FROM 7-9AM ETOWN SATURDAYS AT 9AM PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC HOUR SUNDAYS AT 8AM
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while John Hussman provides the tunes and Catch the Food Truck provides the tacos. www.carleighflower.com. Flytrap Brewing Co., 319 Walnut St. PAM TOLL
“The Familiar Distance in Going Home: Visual Narratives by Pam Toll” as part of our partnership with Checker Cab productions and local restaurants. Enjoy the Fine Art of Dining! Pam Toll, an Associate Professor at UNC Wilmington, received a BA in Art and English Literature from UNC Chapel Hill has been painting since childhood. Her studio is located at Acme Art Studios (Wilmington) which she co-founded in 1991, as a work and exhibition space for artists. She also co-founded No Boundaries International Art Colony (Bald Head Island, NC) in 1998, a residency program that in the last twenty years brought over 200 artists from around the world with the goal of creating a crossexchange of cultures and artistic practices to share with our local community. Pinpoint Restaurant, 114 Market St.
ODE TO EXPRESSION
Addie Jo Bannerman’s watercolor and multimedia exhibit, Ode to Expression, the viewer will experience two different forms of expression: objective and subjective. Addie Jo’s watercolor portraits spark an emotional response for the viewer by what they see in the expression of a face. Her loose and expressive abstracts allow the viewer to create their own personal emotional response to the strokes and colors on the canvas. All artwork will be for sale. This event is free and open to the public. Terra Sol Sanctuary, 507 Castle St.
CAPE FEAR CONTRA DANCERS
Come on out for two hours of energetic, contemporary American country dancing with live music. Dress cool & comfortable, softsoled shoes. All ages. 2nd/4th Tues, 7:30pm. United Methodist, 409 S. 5th Ave.
BABS MCDANCE
Mon. nights, 7pm: Are you interested in learning the Waltz, but are not sure where to start with the dance? Or have you learned the basics and are needing to jog your memory by going over the basic steps again? Well, our level 1 class every Monday night in September is just the class for you, 7-8pm. Level 2 and 3 classes offered 8-9pm. • Bachata Wednesdays! All levels welcome to this one hour class at 7pm! Learn new moves and patterns for this spicy Latin dance. • Argentine Tango Wed., 8pm: All levels welcome to this one hour class at 8:pm! Elegant and dynamic social dance. • Shag level 1, Thurs., 7pm: designed for a beginner dancer and/or the dancer wanting to freshen up on the basics. Concepts taught are critical to understanding future technique and terminology. Subject to a minimum of participants. • Shag
2 & 3, 8pm: A class designed for students who have a strong foundation in the basics. Takes the concepts from Level 1 and adds to it. Subject to a minimum of participants. $5/military and students with ID, $10/person, $15/couple. Babs McDance, 6782 Market St. DANCE ELEMENT
All Boys’ Dance Program, offering two weekly classes led by talented and inspiring male dance teachers: Mon., 4:45-5:30 (ages 5 and up) and Wed., 4-4:45 (ages 9 and up). Visit our beautiful dance studio in the Ogden Business Park and try a class risk free and free of charge! Enhance balance and sharpen coordination—great for sports! Teaches the importance of teamwork. • Tues, 6:30pm: Adults with any level of experience are invited to join Natalie Oldani for a weekly dance party, hip-hop. Tues, 6:30-7:30pm. No experience necessary. Class provides both exercise and enjoyment for “beginners” and experienced dance students alike. Ogden Business Park, just off Market St. www. thedanceelement.com Admission: $12-$80, offered per class or punch cards of multiple classes. The Dance Element, 7211 Ogden
Business Ln., #205 SATURDAY DANCE WITH CONTRAFORCE
Jan. 12, 7:30am: Mark your calendar now for Jan. 12 as a can’t miss event! New to contra dancing? Come at 7:30 pm for a brief intro session on the basics and be ready to dance your feet off from 8 - 11 pm. Dress cool and comfy with soft-soled shoes that will stay on your feet, $7-$10. Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St.
comedy OPEN MIC
Wildest open mic in town ... anything goes. (except cover songs). Stand-up comedy, slam poetry, video, live music, odd talents— performances of all kinds. Hosted by 6-beer Steve. Sign up, 8pm, and runs all night. Juggling Gypsy 1612 Castle St. ILM, (910) 7632223 daily after 3pm for details. www.jugglinggypsy.com.
GRUFF GOAT COMEDY
First Wed. ea. month, Gruff Goat Comedy features Three Guest Comics Under a Bridge.
COLORS OF EXPRESSION
New work of abstract artist Bradley Carter. Carter is an award-winning, international selling artist who grew up pursuing his passion for art in Virginia before moving to the North Carolina in 2007, where he currently resides in Wilmington, NC. He predominately works in the medium of painting with his passion in Abstract Expressionism, but his works also include collage, paint skins, and furniture. Artist and gallery are partnering to donate all proceeds from an art raffle and a portion of art sales to New Hanover Regional Medical Center’s – Betty H. Cameron Women’s & Children’s Hospital for this exhibit.This exhibit will feature a selection of work fresh out of the artist’s studio. Enjoy a night with the artist and live music as well as a special installation at Monteith Construction, 208 Princess St.
ANCIENT ART REVISITED
View paintings created with pigmented wax on surfaces such as wooden panels in a new exhibit: “Ancient Art Revisited: A Group Encaustic Exhibit.” The wax is fused or burned via a heat source creating luminous qualities and colorful depths of layers. Artists include Judy Hintz Cox, Liz Hosier, Helen Lewis, Charles Robertson (New Elements Gallery), and Kirah Van Sickle. Opening reception on Friday, January 11th, from 6-8pm. Visit with the artists and enjoy refreshments. The exhibit continues through February 9th, 2019. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St.
dance encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 45
d? e d o o l F r Ca
No Trolls. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Ln. PRIMETIME COMEDY
See some of NC’s best stand-up comedians in a world class venue! This month’s talented performers: Brett Williams, Cordero Wilson, Grant Sheffield, Louis Bishop, and Tyler Wood. Hosted by: Wills Maxwell. N Front Theatre (formerly City Stage), 21 N Front St.
LUCKY JOE COMEDY SHOW
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First Sat. ea. month is free show at Lucky Joe Craft Coffee on College Road presented by Regretful Villains. The show features a new style of stand-up called Speed Joking. Come enjoy a night of laughs and find your Comedic Soulmate! 1414 S College Rd.
LIVE RIFFING AND VINTAGE TV
Every Wed. join Dead Crow Comedy for improv night. Join local comedians for a TV party at Dead Crow! An interactive improvised comedy show. 265 N. Front St.
DAREDEVIL IMPROV COMEDY TROUPE
DareDevil Improv Classes teach you the fundamentals of the funny! Learn to be more spontaneous, trust your instincts, and create one-of-a-kind comedy with an ensemble! (And even if you’re not a “performer,” our classes are a great way to meet people and have a hella good time!) Details and signups: daredevilimprov.com. Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St.
DEAD CROW COMEDY ROOM
Dec. 28, 7pm: Willis Maxwell, featuring Jonathan Schwartz and Deshawn Mason. Maxwell Jr. started doing stand-up comedy when he was in 4th grade. His teacher didn’t appre-
ciate him interrupting the class and his parents didn’t appreciate him getting in trouble. Wills is the host of Wilmington, North Carolina’s Late Night Talk Show “Late Fear with Wills Maxwell” He can also be seen every Thursday morning on WWAY with his comedy news segment “What Did We Miss?” He has been a part of the Cape Fear Comedy Festival and the Cola Comedy Convention. Tickets: $13. • Dec. 28, 9:30pm: Billy Raim, featuring Drew Harrison and Travis Carl— Raim has a storytelling style of comedy that has landed him in several nationally syndicated podcasts including being featured on Kevin Allison’s ( From MTV’s The State) RISK! storytelling podcast. His comedy style is known for discussing relatable topics and personal experiences like overcoming addiction, family values, and the current affairs of today’s lack of human decency. Tickets: $13. • Dec. 29, 7pm: Brian Piccolo, featuring Colton DeMonte, Steve Marcinowski, and Chris Harrje. Piccolo is a Wilmington based stand up comic, whose dry humor and clever one liners delight smart audiences and confuse less intelligent ones. The winner of 2018’s Port City’s Top Comic, you may know him from his work with silent film star Fatty Arbuckle and former president Rutherford B. Hayes. His love of language and general absurdity informs his uniquely skewed sense of humor. Tickets: $13. • Dec. 29, 9:30pm: Matt Coghlan, featuring Dustin Harris. Joe Lefevre, and Tyler Deese—Coghlan has quickly become a staple in the Wilmington comedy scene, finishing in the top 3 of the 2018 Port City’s Top Comic. He combines an innocent outlook with witty humor to surprise audienc-
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CREATORS SYNDICATE © 2017 STANLEY NEWMAN
WWW.STANXWORDS.COM
3/5/17
Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)
THINK TUBULAR: Or cylindrical, if you prefer by Gail Grabowski ACROSS 1 Stops marching 6 Bedside appliance 10 Army outposts 15 Otherwise 19 Big name in foil 20 Melville’s Typee sequel 21 Concessionary cry 22 Bob of home improvement 23 “Forever Young” singer 25 Part of Oregon’s border 27 Dismount 28 Scented pouch 30 Lustrous fabric 31 Regarding 32 County near London 33 Reversible woven fabrics 34 Early times, for short 37 Superlative suffix 39 2001 . . . computer 40 Bit of deceit 41 Idealistic notion 45 Credit as a cause 50 Positive aspects 51 Gear tooth 53 Correspondence 54 Imam’s faith 55 Have an inkling 56 Farmer’s gathering 58 Restlessness 59 Syrian __ Republic 62 Store-sign gas 63 Misspeak, say 65 Meditative sect 66 Small bouquet 69 Reckless person 72 Candy shapes 73 Air quality org. 74 Acoustic organ 75 Cantina fare
76 Viking Ship Museum city 78 Williams sisters’ sport 81 Shoestring holders 84 Crowd-scene actor 88 Forest in As You Like It 89 Sent a dupe letter to 90 Downturn 91 The Lord of the Rings villain 92 Breaking point 94 Canada’s postal code H0H 0H0 96 Amphitheater feature 97 Sewn edge 100 Roofing sealant 101 Lawn condensation 102 College football performers 106 Novelist Chaim 108 Seville snack 111 Designate officially 112 Extreme folly 113 Knickknack stand 117 Blarney Stone locale 119 Livestock locale 121 Suffix for luncheon 122 Brief cessation 123 Situated on 124 “Old MacDonald” refrain 125 Sit for a bit 126 Shut down 127 Choral performance 128 Origins DOWN 1 Challenging 2 Medicinal plant 3 Some HDTV screens 4 Puccini work 5 Overfills 6 Aspirin descriptor 7 GPs’ org.
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 26 29 33 34 35 36 38 40 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 52 53 57 58 60 61 64 66 67 68 70 71
Telegraph inventor Soap ingredient Apple quantity Subsidiary building “Shoo!” Lodge logo animal Is omniscient Musical set in Buenos Aires Exists Built for speed Works for Keys in Small baking dish Civil War inits. Bygone phone feature Mobile downloads Eight furlongs Made like cotton candy RPM gauge Use bleach on School paper 13 Down cousin Complains, so to speak __ in “chameleon” Application Town square Electrical weapon Portents Said “Welcome!” to Was a threat to Outspoken Big brewers Taproom orders Miss Piggy accessory Pal of Piglet Potpourri piece Puccini genre Metaphor for time Mining vehicle Away from the office
72 77 79 80 82 83 85 86 87 89 91
Enclose for shipping Remini of sitcoms Pay-stub figure No time at all Archery wood Catch sight of Trampled (on) Cast assignment Yet again “Street” rep Low clouds
93 Old-style photo 95 Suitable for most audiences 97 Hit the horn 98 Next vowel after epsilon 99 Coffeehouse beverages 102 Runner in the lead 103 Cybermemo 104 Wears a long face 105 IQ test pioneer
106 Boxing prize 107 Former Japanese capital 109 Inserts in sashes 110 Texas college athlete 112 Noisy 114 Swordplay tool 115 Former Nevada senator 116 Grandson of Eve 118 Spam holder 120 Chaney of silents
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es from start to finish. Tickets: $13. • Dec. 31, NYE w/ Rosebud Baker! See pages 36-37 • Jan. 4-5: Ramy Youssef performed on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. He most recently appeared in a three-episode arc on the third season of USA’s Mr. Robot. Youssef co-created and wrote the show. He also stars in the series “Ramy” on Hulu, and Nick at Nite sitcom “See Dad Run” alongside Scott Baio and Mark Curry. He is half of the award-winning NYC sketch duo Inside Joke Films, who have been official selections at the Chicago, San Francisco and New York Sketch Comedy Festivals. www.deadcrowcomedy.com. 265 N. Front St.
museum CAMERON ART MUSEUM
On exhibit: “A Time When Art Is Everywhere: teamLab,” an art collective and interdisciplinary group of programmers, engineers, CG animators, mathematicians artists and architects, creates digital artworks that bridge art, science, technology, design and the natural world. Designs are immersive interpretations deeply rooted in Japanese art, aesthetic and history. Through Sept. 8, 2019 • Feather by Feather, The Sculptures of Grainger McKoy, through Feb. 17, 2019: From the detailed beginnings of the single iconic feather, Grainger McKoy transforms his intricately carved birds into gravity-defying sculptures that play with form and space. • Along the Eastern Sea Road: Hiroshige’s Fifty-three Stations of the Tōkaidō, through Feb. 17, 2019: Master printmaker Utagawa Hiroshige’s Fifty-Three
Stations of the Tōkaidō is among the most celebrated works of Japanese art. Series depicts the spectacular landscapes and fascinating characters encountered on the journey from Edo (now Tokyo) to the imperial capital of Kyoto. The Tōkaidō road was the most-traveled route between these two important cities, figuring heavily into popular Japanese art and culture in the mid1800s. Cameron Art Museum presents the complete set of 55 prints from Hiroshige’s monumental oban series, known as the Upright Tōkaidō, created in 1855. • Nearer to Nature, through Feb. 17, 2019 Humans have always been inspired and influenced by the world that surrounds us. Featuring artwork from CAM’s permanent collection, Nearer to Nature highlights this fascination and contemplation of the natural world. Artists in the exhibition include Elliott Daingerfield, Minnie Evans, William Frerichs, Will Henry Stevens, along with contemporary artists such as Mark Flood, Guy Laramée and Hiroshi Sueyoshi. • Illumination, through Jan. 6, 2019: Highly popular Illumination returns for it’s 3rd year to CAM. Drawing inspiration from traditional lantern festivals, marking the transitional moment of season’s change and year’s end, reflecting on the past while garnering energy for the future. CAM recognizes the crucial role of artists and art in creating an exceptional quality of life for a community. Art, like a lantern, illuminates the mystery, empathy and wonder of human existence. On Sun., Dec. 9 from 4-7 p.m. will be the third annual Floating Lantern Ceremony: This event is an opportunity
for Remembrance, Reflection and Gratitude. There’s no charge to attend, but participants are encouraged to purchase a $12 lantern sleeve they may personalize and then float on the CAM reflecting pond.• CAM Café open and serving delicious menu with full bar, 5pm9pm. Tues.-Sun., 11am-2pm; Thurs. nights, 5pm-9pm 910-395-5999. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St. CAPE FEAR MUSEUM
Hundreds of toys and games are on view in PlayTime!—classics, like Lincoln Logs, toy soldiers, an Erector set and a Mr. Potato Head, and even old faves like wooden tops, blocks and dolls. Remember those toys that, for whatever reason, we just had to have? Some of those fad favorites like the Rubik’s cube and 1960s Liddle Kiddle dolls are on exhibit along with toy figures from fast food kids’ meals. Explore toy history in custom label books. Play, create, and imagine in Cape Fear Museum’s newest exhibit, PlayTime! Engage with museum educators in these short, drop-in programs. Activities change weekly and may include puzzles, games, blocks, and more. Adult participation is required. Fun for all ages! Free for members or with general admission • Camera Collections! With today’s smart phones and digital cameras, photography is everywhere. Until the invention of the camera in 1839, there was no way to instantly capture the environment around you. In less than 200 years, cameras have progressed from complicated contraptions only used by professionals, to simple boxes with a roll of film anyone could operate, to handheld computers that create digital images shared
with the world. 86 cameras and 145 photographic accessories showcases changes in technology and styles, from late 1800searly 2000s. www.capefearmuseum.com. $8/adults, $7/seniors, college & military, $5/ youth. CF Museum, 814 Market St. WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM
WB Museum of History, housed in the turn of the century Myers Cottage, exists to preserve and to share the history of Wrightsville Beach. Visitors to the cottage will find a scale model of Wrightsville Beach circa 1910, exhibits featuring the early days of the beach including Lumina Pavilion, our hurricane history and information about the interaction between the people and our natural environment which have shaped the 100 yr. history of WB. (910) 256-2569. 303 W. Salisbury St. wbmuseum.com.
WILMINGTON RR MUSEUM
Explore railroad history and heritage, especially of the Atlantic Coast Line, headquartered in Wilmington for 125 years. Interests and activities for all ages, including historical exhibits, full-size steam engine and rolling stock, lively Children’s Hall, and spectacular model layouts. House in an authentic 1883 freight warehouse, facilities are fully accessible and on one level. By reservation, discounted group tours, caboose birthday parties, and after-hours meetings or mixers. Story Time on 1st/3rd Mon. at 10:30am, only $5 per family and access to entire Museum. Admission only $9 adult, $8 senior/military, $5 child, ages 2-12, and free under age 2. 505 Nutt St. 910-763-2634. www.wrrm.org.
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• Wings • Salads • • Sandwiches • Seafood • • Steaks • Ribs • Chicken • Pasta •
16 Cold Draft Beers
UPCOMING EVENTS: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29 | 7:00 P.M. Men’s Basketball vs Charlotte CAA SEASON OPENER Halftime: Halo Hoops
FRIDAY, JANUARY 4 | 11:30 A.M. Women’s Basketball vs College of Charleston
encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 51
LATIMER HOUSE
Victorian Italiante style home built in 1852, the restored home features period furnishings, artwork and family portraits. Tours offered Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. Latimer House of Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. Third St.
BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE
18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th and 19th century decor and gardens. Colonial life is experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen-building and courtyard. 3rd/Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. 910-762-0570. www.burgwinwrighthouse.com.
BELLAMY MANSION
One of NCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans, for John Dillard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, planter and business leader; and his wife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (18211907) and their nine children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington. Now a museum, it focuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action. 910-251-3700. www.bellamymansion.org. 503 Market St.
HIDDEN BATTLESHIP
Jan. 5, noon: For the explorer at heart, 4 1/2
hours touring restored areas of the Battleship in small groups. Climb the tower for the best view in Wilmington. See the brig, officersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; country, engineering and gunnery spaces, and more. Brings out the Indiana Jones in all of us! Battleship NC, 1 Battleship Rd.
kids stuff SNAKE AND TURTLE FEEDING
A brief presentation about the live animals on display in the Events Center and then watch them feed. At least one snake and turtle will be fed during the demonstration. Ages: 3 and up. Cost: $1. Halyburton Park, 4099 S. 17th St.
WINTER BREAK ACTIVITIES
Dec. 27, 11am: Brr! Create an â&#x20AC;&#x153;icescapeâ&#x20AC;? art with a chemical reaction, experiment states of matter with melting colors, challenge a friend to ice bowling. Come out and discover this cool science and more as we explore the wonders of winter! â&#x20AC;˘ Candy Science, Dec. 38, 11am: Explore chemistry by creating a crazy concoction, determine which candy is most acidic with sour science, make a sugary rainbow, and more. Use the scientific method and your senses to discover the science of candy! Free for members or with general admission. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.
KIDS YOGA AND ART WORKSHOP
Jan. 5, 11am: Ages 5+ children will design a mala bracelet by stringing semi-precious gemstones and one (optional) charm onto elastic cord. We will learn what malas are used for, be introduced to fun breathing ex-
ercises, and have a blast learning individual and partner yoga poses! Children will leave with a special mala bracelet to be worn as a visual reminder of their intentions for wellness. $30. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr., #200 LITTLE EXPLORERS
Ages 2-5: Bring your kids to the park and discover nature through stories, songs, handson activities, hikes and crafts. Your children will delight in the many nature themes we explore each month. Space is limited and pre-registration is required for these popular programs. $3/participant. Hurry Up and Hibernate, 1/10-11, 10-11am, $3/person â&#x20AC;˘ Wintery Wonders, 1/17-18, 10-11am, $3/person â&#x20AC;˘ Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Valentines, 2/14-15, 10-11am, $3/person â&#x20AC;˘ Springing Into Spring, 2/28-3/1, 10-11am, $3/person â&#x20AC;˘ Green in Nature, 3/1415, $3/person, 10-11am â&#x20AC;˘ What Does a Tree Need? 3/28-29, 10-11am, $3/person â&#x20AC;˘ Amazing Animal Acrobats, 4/11-12, 10-11am, $3/ person â&#x20AC;˘ Homey Habitats, 4/25-26, 10-11am, $3/person. Halyburton Park, 4099. S. 17th St.
DISCOVERY LAB: EXPLORING SPACE
Dec. 29, 2pm: Ignite your curiosity! Discover history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear through hands-on exploration and fun science labs. Themes vary. Ideal for ages 5 and up. Drop in between 2 PM and 3 PM for several self-guided discovery stations. Adult participation is required. Free for members or with general admission. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.
recreational WALK WITH A DOC
Join us the 3rd Saturday of every month at 9am for a fun and healthy walkâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;held at the Midtown YMCA. Each walk beings with a brief physician-led discussion of a current health topic, then he/she spends time walking, answering questions and talking with walkers. Choose your own pace and distance. Free and open to anyone. YMCA Midtown, George Anderson Dr.
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Thurs., 10:30am: WB Scenic Tours birding boat cruise of Masonboro Island and Bradley Creek. Guided eco-cruises are educational boat tours designed to increase conservation awareness about local wildlife and sensitive coastline habitats in New Hanover County. Topics explained during the boat ride will include: salt marsh function, wetland plants, and strong emphasis on shorebird/ water bird ecology and identification. Birding tours are best when scheduled at low tide. â&#x20AC;˘ Sunset Tour of WB, Thurs., 5pm: Sunset with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours departs from the Blockade Runner Dock. Routes vary with season, weather, and whim on the Basic Sunset Cruise but may include Masonboro Island, Bradley Creek, Money Island or some other combination. Water, marsh, Shamrock, sunset â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a simple combination but very satisfying. Also, from experience, this is the best time to sight dolphins in the bay. RSVP: 910-200-4002 or wbst3000@gmail.com. WB Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.
HIKES AND BIRDING
First Friday bird hikes, ages 5/up; free. 1/4, 2/1, 3/1, 4/5, 9-10:30am: Bird-watch around Halyburton Park the first Friday of each month. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll search for migrants, residents, and point out year-round species too. These walks are
52 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
for beginner birders and all are welcome. â&#x20AC;˘ Bird Trailing Hikes at Fort Fisher, 1/17, 8amnoon, ages 16 and up. $10. Each month we will explore a different site along the NC Birding Trail in the Coastal Plain. Each hike will be approximately 2 miles. Transportation from Halyburton Park is included. â&#x20AC;˘ Greenfield Lake Hike, 2/28, 8am-noon, 16 and up, $10. â&#x20AC;˘ Abby Nature Preserve, 3/21, 8am-noon, 16 and up, $10. â&#x20AC;˘ Holly Shelter Gamelands, 4/11, 8am-3pm, 16 and up, $10 â&#x20AC;˘ Birding Trip at Lake Mattamuskeet and Outer Banks, 1/1113, 7am-4pm, $120, 16 and up: This trip will focus on waterfowl, shorebirds and land birds of Eastern North Carolina. We will visit Lake Mattamuskeet NWR, Alligator River NWR, Pea Island NWR, Bodie Island, Oregon Inlet and Pocosin Lakes NWR over the three days. Cost is $120/participant with transportation and entrance fees included. Lodging (Double room occupancy) and meals are coordinated but not included in the cost of the trip. Registration deadline is January 5. â&#x20AC;˘ Wilmington Big Day-Birding, 1/21, 7am-4pm, 16 and up, $20: We will visit all of the birding hotspots in the Wilmington area and beaches to identify and observe as many bird species as possible in one day. This trip is limited to 5 participants so register early! Halyburton Park, 4099. S. 17th St. ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION WORKSHOPS
Winter Bird ID: 1/18, 9am-3pm, 16 and up, $10: Coastal North Carolina is home to numerous species of birds, including many that migrate through this area. Join Becky Skiba with the NC Wildlife Resource Commission and Andy Fairbanks with Halyburton Park to explore the various habitats in the Wilmington area. We will meet at the park at 8:45am. Halyburton Event Center 8-10am and Outreach 10am-3pm. Halyburton Park, 4099. S. 17th St.
EN LGBTQIA
Dec. 27, 10:30am: Zumba Goldâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Seated is a low impact, modified dance fitness class, and all seated. This class is for those who are not able to stand to dance and those who have injuries that do not allow them to dance on their feet, and those who may be chair-bound. Everyone should be able to experience the joy of music and movement. 31 Fitness, 4209 Oleander Dr., Ste. 8
FIRST DAY HIKE
Jan. 1, 2pm: Start the New Year off with some fresh air! Join us on our First Day Hike. Be one of many hikers participating in First Day Hike in State Parks throughout all 50 states. Meet the ranger at 2:00 pm at the marina trail head parking lot for a 2 mile hike to Sugarloaf Dune. Wear good hiking shoes and dress for the weather. Reservations are required. Call (910) 458-8206 for more information about the hike and to register for the hike. Carolina Beach State Park, 1010 State Park Rd.
clubs/notices CF ROLLER GIRLS REGISTRATION NIGHT
Jan. 16, 8:30pm: CFRG welcomes competitive women from all walks of life who can dedicate the time and energy it takes to become a roller derby skater. You must be at least 18 years old to play roller derby. All you need is a positive attitude, an open mind, and the willingness to work your booty off, skate hard, and learn. Find out what roller derby and the
Cape Fear Roller Girls are all about at our Registration Night! We’ll cover the basics of roller derby, the ins and outs of CFRG Bootcamp, and even meet our active skaters, refs, and non skating officials during open skate! www.capefearrollergirls.com. Scooter Skating Rink, 341 Shipyard Blvd
classes ADULT CRAFTERNOONS
New monthly meet-up for adults who enjoy crafting. Drop in on the first Monday afternoon of every month at the Northeast Library. A different usable craft project will be featured each month. Free program, with all supplies provided by a Friends of NHC Library LEAD Award. Reserve spot on calendar at www. NHCLibrary.org or 910-798-6371. Librarian Annice Sevett: asevett@nhcgov.com or 910798-6371. 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.
CRAFTEEN MINI GARDENS
Crafty teens are invited for snacks and miniature garden making at Northeast Library. Hands-on workshop is free but space is limited. To make sure there are enough seats and supplies, please register on calendar, NHCLibrary.org. 910-798-6371. NHC NE Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.
JOB SEARCHING WITH NCWORKS ONLINE
Dec. 26, 9:30am: Looking for work? At this free program Paula Giles, Career Advisor, will show you how to use NCWorks Online, North Carolina’s official job search portal. Once you create your profile NCWorks Online, you can apply for jobs across North Carolina and find out about training opportunities near you. You can also dig into labor market information, and locate other services in your community that may assist you during your job search. Session is free to the public and no registration is needed. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.
SLOW TRIBAL FLOW YOGA/LIVE DRUMMING
Dec. 30, 2:30pm: Join Noelle for Slow Tribal Flow Yoga--an all-levels, full-body Vinyasa class. Noelle will guide you through movement suggestions to groovy live drums, but you’ll be invited to move in any way that you feel inspired. The class will begin and end with mantra meditation with the harmonium, and will conclude with and extended savasana with live music and light Thai Yoga assists for deep relaxation. All are welcome to explore this life-affirming movement experience. $35.https://m360.us/b7d82
DECEMBER 26 - JANUARY 1
ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20)
I suspect in 2019 you’ll be able to blend a knack for creating more stability with an urge to explore and seek greater freedom. How might this unusual confluence be expressed in practical ways? Maybe you’ll travel to reconnect with your ancestral roots. Or perhaps a faraway ally or influence will help you feel more at home in the world. It’s possible you’ll establish a stronger foundation, which will in turn bolster courage and inspire you to break free of a limitation. What do you think?
TAURUS (April 20-May 20)
On average a total eclipse of the sun happens every 18 months. And how often is a total solar eclipse visible from a specific location on the planet? Typically, once every 375 years. In 2019, the magic moment will occur on July 2 for people living in Chile and Argentina. I believe throughout the coming year, Tauruses all over the world will experience other kinds of rare and wonderful events at a higher rate than usual. Not eclipses, but rather divine interventions, mysterious miracles, catalytic epiphanies, unexpected breakthroughs, and amazing graces. Expect more of the marvelous than you’re accustomed to.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20)
“The world’s full of people who have stopped listening to themselves,” mythologist Joseph Campbell wrote. It’s imperative you are not one of those folks. 2019 should be the Year of Listening Deeply to Yourself. That means being on high alert for your inner inklings, your unconscious longings, and the still small voice at the heart of your destiny. If you do that, you’ll discover I’m right when I say you’re smarter than you realize.
tors syndiCate FREE ENGLISH CLASSES
CANCER (June 21-July 22)
Jackson Pollock is regarded as a pioneer in the technique of drip-painting, which involves drizzling and splashing paint on canvases that lie on the floor. It made him famous. The truth is, Pollock got inspired to pursue what became known as his signature style only after he saw an exhibit by the artist Janet Sobel—who was the real pioneer. I bring it to your attention because I see 2019 as a year when the Janet Sobel-like aspects of life will get their due. Overdue appreciation will arrive. Credit you have deserved but haven’t fully garnered will finally come your way. You’ll be acknowledged and recognized in surprising ways.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)
As the crow flies, Wyoming is almost 1,000
ROD STEWART (23 Across) was
miles from the Pacific Ocean and more than 1,000 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, which is part of the Atlantic Ocean. Now, here’s a surprise: In the northwest corner of Wyoming, the North Two Ocean Creek divides into two tributaries, one of which ultimately flows to the Pacific and one reaches the Gulf. So an enterprising fish could conceivably swim from one ocean to the other via a waterway. I propose we make North Two Ocean Creek the official metaphor for 2019. It will symbolize the turning point you’ll be at in your life; it will remind you that you’ll have the power to launch an epic journey in one of two directions.
the superstars for whom she has composed hit tunes are Beyoncé, Rihanna and Flo Rida. But she has also had failures. Top recording artists like Adele and Shakira have commissioned her to write songs for them, only to subsequently turn down what she created. In 2016 Sia got sweet revenge. She released an album, in which she herself sang many rejected songs. It has sold more than 2 million copies. Do you, too, know what it’s like to have your gifts and skills ignored or unused or rebuffed, Sagittarius? If so, the coming months will be an excellent time to express them for your own benefit, as Sia did.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) I have come to the conclusion softening your relationship with perfectionism will be a key assignment in 2019. With this in mind, I offer you observations from wise people who have studied the subject. 1. “The perfect is the enemy of the good.” — Voltaire 2. “Perfection is a stick with which to beat the possible.” — Rebecca Solnit 3. Perfectionism is “the high-end version of fear.”— Elizabeth Gilbert 4. “Nothing is less efficient than perfectionism.” — Elizabeth Gilbert 4. “It’s better to live your own life imperfectly than to imitate someone else’s perfectly.” — Elizabeth Gilbert
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
In 1682 Peter Alexeyevich became co-Tsar of Russia. He was 10 years old. His 24-year-old half-sister Sophia had a hole cut in the back of his side of the dual throne. That way she could sit behind him, out of sight and whisper guidance as he discussed political matters with allies. I’d love it if you could wangle a comparable arrangement for yourself in 2019. Are there wise confidants or mentors or helpers from whom you could draw continuous counsel? Seek them out.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
The body of the violin has two F-shaped holes on either side of the strings. They enable the sound that resonates inside the instrument, to be projected outwardly. A thousand years ago, the earliest ancestor of the modern violin had round holes. Later they became half-moons, then Cshaped, and finally evolved into the F-shape. Why the change? Scientific analysis reveals the modern form allows more air to be pushed out from inside the instrument, thereby producing a more powerful sound. My analysis of your life in 2019 suggests it will be a time to make an upgrade from your metaphorical equivalent of the C-shaped holes to the F-shaped holes. A small shift will enable you to generate more power and resonance.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Sagittarian singer-songwriter Sia has achieved great success, and garnered nine Grammy nominations, amassing a $20 million fortune. Among
A typical, fluffy-white cumulus cloud weighs 216,000 pounds. A dark cumulonimbus storm cloud is 106 million pounds, almost 490 times heavier. Why? Because it’s filled with far more water than the white cloud. So which is better: the fluffy cumulus or the stormy cumolonimbus? Neither, of course. We might sometimes prefer the former over the latter because it doesn’t darken the sky as much or cause the inconvenience of rain. But the truth is, the cumulonimbus is a blessing; a substantial source of moisture; a gift to growing things. I mention this because I suspect for you 2019 will have more metaphorical resemblances to the cumulonimbus than the cumulus.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
A hundred years ago, most astronomers thought there was just one galaxy in the universe: our Milky Way. Other models for the structure of the universe were virtually heretical. But in the 1920s, astronomer Edwin Hubble produced research that proved the existence of many more galaxies. Today the estimate is there are at least 400 billion. I wonder what currently unimaginable possibilities will be obvious to our ancestors 100 years from now. Likewise, I wonder what currently unforeseen truths will be fully available to you by the end of 2019. My guess: more than in any other previous year of your life.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)
Author Elizabeth Gilbert offers advice for those who long for a closer relationship with the Supreme Being: “Look for God like a man with his head on fire looks for water.” I’ll expand that approach so it applies to you when you’re in quest of any crucial life-enhancing experience. If you genuinely believe a particular adventure or relationship or transformation is key to your central purpose, it’s not enough to be mildly enthusiastic about it. You really do need to seek your heart’s desire in the way people with their heads on fire look for water. 2019 will be prime time for you to embody this understanding.
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Spirit of the Holiday Cruise Only available dates: Dec 28th, 29th & 30th Boarding @ 5:30pm • Departs @ 6pm Only $20
This Cruise is a 60 min cruise into a magical delight with Christmas carols performed by a local Musician, tasty holiday cocktails from our bar with some tasty sweet treats. Great way to get into the Holiday spirit. Remember we are enclosed & very comfy.
Have Company Visiting? We have the perfect thing to do with them...... Visit our website to view our Cruise Schedule http://www.wilmingtonwatertours.net
Visit us on the Riverwalk! 212 S. Water Street 910-338-3134 • email: info@wilmingtonwt.com
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Complete Schedule: wilmingtonwatertours.net 54 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com
Free English Class for adults begins January 15. For English as a Second Language Students. Every Tuesday and Thursday 9am-12 pm. Classes held at Pine Valley United Methodist Church 910 Pine Valley Rd., Jacksonville, NC 28546. Register for class before Dec. 31st. Register by calling Joseph Park: (919) 452-5795/mrjoseph58@gmail.com or visit https://go.evvnt.com/326690-2?pid=1374 MANDALAS AND MANIFESTATIONS
Jan. 1, 2pm: Gather New Years Day to learn skills for setting high-vibrational, healthy intentions for 2019 in a way that they can truly manifest in your life. This inspiring workshop will consists of three sections. Guided focus on moving awareness inward towards one’s highest Self with a 60 minute Mandala inspired Yin Yoga practice. Then, each participant will be given a notebook for setting intentions. We will set our imaginations free creating mini vision boards on the cover of our notebooks. Magazines will be provided but feel free to bring your own artwork or inspiration. This will allow the mind to become playful, further increasing vibrations and allowing for intuition to be turned on. During this time no desire is too big. If you believe it can happen it can. Genevera will teach the steps for writing out intentions using the intelligence of the Self for clarity about what is truly important. Now, energy can be focused skillfully to achieve whatever your heart truly desires. There will be time for sharing inquiries and connecting with eachother as a community throughout this workshop. Bring your friends or make new ones. All ages are welcome. $35 in advance; $40 day of; price includes materials. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr.
PEACE AND THANK YOU
Jan. 5, 10am: Metal & Wire Workshop Open House. Thank you to everyone for my third year teaching metal and wire work at the Community Arts Center Wilmington and Peace to You in the coming year! Some hands-on materials for creating and lots of good fellowship so please come and bring a friend. Free. Info, raffles and light snacks! Hannah Block Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St.
HYPNOBIRTHING
Jan. 12-Feb. 16, 2-4:30pm: Amanda Dodson HBCE, CD(DONA) leads a series in HypnoBirthing “The Mongan Method”—a gentle and relaxing way to give birth. In class, we focus on breathing, relaxation, visualization and how fear can be associated with birth. “The Mongan Method” will teach you to place yourself in an ultra-calm state using visualizations, music, self-hypnosis, and relaxation techniques. You and your body work together through your labor, easing pain and discomfort. In Hypnobirthing, you are totally conscious and in a strong state of relaxation and engagement with your body. Your mind is still functioning normally so you’re aware of what is going on around you. 5-week series; limited spots available! Registration deadline is Jan, 5; $275/couple. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr. #200
culinary FERMENTAL
Free tasting every Friday, 6pm. Third Wed. of each month feat. musical and brewing talents alongside an open mic night, as well as the opportunity for homebrewers to share, sam-
ple, and trade their creations: an evening of beer and an open stage. PA and equipment provided. All genres and beer styles. fermental.net. 910-821-0362. 7250 Market St. FREE BREWERY TOURS AND TASTINGS
3pm, 3:45pm, 4:30pm everyday at Front Street Brewery, 9 N. Front St. Learn how we brew our beer, meet brewers and get two free samples.
PORT CITY FARMERS’ MARKET
Tues., 5pm: Join us for a wonderful, exciting night of fun. Port City Farmer’s Market at Waterline Brewing Co. 100% local, 100% handmade. Shop among some incredible local vendors, artists and farmers. Support small businesses in your area. Fresh local produce, beef and pork products, sweets, pickled items, handcrafted jewelry and art. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Ln.
YMCA MONTHLY POTLUCKS
12:30pm: Join us for a monthly potluck! Bring a dish (and a recipe!) to share! Free and open to all! 11/7: Holiday Recipe Sharing. It’s time to try out a new holiday recipe let us be your guinea pigs! 12/15: Holiday Themed Dish. Bring favorite holiday themed dish! Express YMCA, 11 S. Kerr Ave.
AYCE OYSTER ROASTS
AYCE Oyster Roast for $27.95 every Friday and Saturday from 4-10 pm. Add AYCE boiled and fried shrimp for an additional $9.95. Local oysters. Capt’n Bills Backyard and Grille, 4240 Market St.
NEW YEAR’S DAY DINNER WITH GUEST CHEF
Jan. 1, 11am: Come in and start 2019 off right! Have your lucky dinner and enjoy the fabulous cooking of Vickie. We will start serving at 11 AM until it’s gone. It was a sell out last year so come early! Hoplite Pub and Beer Gaten, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.
tours CAM WEEKLY EXHIBITION TOURS
Cameron Art Museum allows participants to explore current exhibitions with Anne Brennan, CAM’s executive director, in a new series of public tours. Free for CAM members. Wed., 1:30pm. 3201 S. 17th St.
LITERARY HISTORY WALKING TOUR
Explore the rich culture of our talented Southern town with a 90 minute walking tour of the literary history of downtown Wilmington, NC. Visit “The Two Libraries.” Walk the streets of your favorite novels, and stand where Oscar Wilde did when he lectured here. Saturdays, 1:30pm, Old Books on Front. 249 N. Front St. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1282390
INSIDER’S TOUR
Explore the history of community at Cape Fear Museum. Take the Insider’s Tour offered the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10am. Tours are free with admission and include a “behind the scenes” sneak peek. Pre-reg. is required: 910-798-4362 or cfmprograms@nhcgov.com. Free w/general admission or membership. CF Museum, 814 Market St.
GHOST WALK
6:30 & 8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted Wilmington. Nightly tours, 6:30pm/8:30pm. Admission. Water & Market sts. RSVP rqd: 910-794-1866. hauntedwilmington.com
BELLAMY MANSION
Guided tours start on the hour; self-guided tours start at any time. Mon. is only self-guided tours. Follow curved oyster-shell paths through our lush Victorian garden shaded by 150-yr.-old magnolia trees. See the elegant main entrance surrounded by soaring columns and gleaming windows. Hear stories of Bellamies, as well as those of the free and enslaved black artisans who built the home and crafted intricate details throughout the house. Adults $12; senior and military discount, $10; students, $6; children under 5, free. Bellamy Mansion, 503 Market St. MASONBORO SHELLING TOUR
Explore Masonboro Island and discover the wonder of the Carolina coast. This tour option is ideal for families, birders, and nature enthusiasts. Masonboro Island is an 8.4-mile marine sanctuary island, renowned for its plant and wildlife diversity. Topics will include shell biology, native plant species, shorebirds, and barrier island ecology. Adult $45 Child $25 RSVP: 910-200-4002. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.
support groups WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP
Grades 7-12: Wilmington Pride Youth Group is a safe space for youth who identify as LGBTQIA+ and their straight allies. An adult supervised, safe space for kids to talk about orientation, gender, racial equality, political consequences, religion, self care. Also a great opportunity to meet and socialize with peers from the greater Wilmington area. Meets Thurs., 7pm. Needed: youth facilitators, especially those who are trained to work with kids, and speakers to talk about important topics. wpyg2016@gmail.com.
ANXIETY / OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Group meets 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Building B. Christopher Savard, Ph.D., with Cape Fear Psychological Services, gives a presentation the 1st Thursday of each month. 3rd Thursday meeting is member led. Everyone 18+ welcome. 910763-8134
MS SUPPORT GROUP
Those with MS, families and friends welcome. Meets 2nd Thursday each month, 7 p.m., 1st floor conference room, New Hanover Rehabilitation Hospital, 2131 S. 17th St., Wilmington (behind Betty Cameron Women’s Hospital). Sponsored by Greater Carolinas Chapter, National MS Society. Details: Anne, 910-2322033 or Burt, 910-383-1368. New Hanover Regional Medical Center, 2131 S. 17th St.
LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP
Meets third Saturday each month. Free; dropins are welcome. Group provides participants an opportunity to receive introductory info about lupus, encourage the expression of concerns, provide an opportunity to share experiences, encourage and support positive coping strategies, and emphasize the importance of medical treatment. Guest speakers, DVD presentations and open group discussion. info@lupusnc.org (877) 849-8271, x1. lupusnc.org. NE Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.
PFLAG
First Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.
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AUDIO ENGINEERING CLASSES Music recording, mixing, pro tools, studio production
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SATISFY ALL YOUR CRAVINGS Huge menu with over 70 food items— including our famous $6.99 lunches & $8.99 dinners! Front Street Brewery 910.251.1935 9 N. Front St., Downtown Wilmington FrontStreetBrewery.com
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encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 55
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Wednesday-Saturday 11am-9pm Sunday 11am- 8pm Closed - Monday and Tuesday Visit our website - www.CaseysBuffet.com 56 encore | december 26, 2018 - january 8, 2019 | www.encorepub.com