VOL. 35 / PUB. 18
FREE NOVEMBER 8 - NOVEMBER 14, 2017 encorepub.com
SHUNNING PC CULTURE
Cucalorus audiences can’t avoid Trump in filmmaker Onur Tukel’s ‘The Misogynists’
HODGEPODGE Vol. 35/Pub. 18
November 8 - November 14, 2017
WWW.ENCOREPUB.COM
event of the week
Friday, May 6 -11, 11 7a.m. Saturday, Nov. p.m. Flavor of NC: Fall Harvest Fest
ON THE COVER
Flavor of NC returns with hosting nonprofit Good Shepherd for a Fall Harvest Fest at the Blockade Runner Beach Resort (275 Waynick Blvd.) on November 11, 7-10 p.m. This evening of delicious food, drinks and music also includes dancing, games, auction, and chnaces to win prizes playing NC trivia and corn hole! Tickets are $60 per person. For tickets or sponsorships, contact Jane Birnbach at 910-763-4424 x110 or jbirnbach@goodshepherdwilmington.org. To enter events on encore’s new online calendar, generated by SpinGo, head to www.encorepub. com/welcome/events-2. Events must be entered by every Thursday at noon, for consideration in print and on our new app, encore Go. E-mail shea@ encorepub.com with questions.
SHUNNING PC CULTURE, PGS. 24-25 ‘The Misogynists’ ironically employed more women than men to produce Onur Tukel’s film, set on election night 2016 in the aftermath of Trump’s win. The film is showing as part of Cucalorus 23; read Shea Carver’s interview with Tukel on pages 24-25. An flip through the whole edition for tons of coverage on Cucalorus. Photo: Dylan Baker and Jamie Block
M
MUSIC>> Shirley Gnome is not shy when it comes to singing about taboo topics like sex, sexuality and anything in between—which is why she and her Kazoo have been invited back to Cucalorus 23 for two shows this week. Photo by KiaRae Photography.
A
Assistant Editor:
Shannon Rae Gentry // music@encorepub.com
Art Director: Susie Riddle // ads@encorepub.com Chief Contributors: Gwenyfar Rohler, Anghus,
PG. 11
Tom Tomorrow, Chuck Shepherd, Mark Basquill, Rosa Bianca, Rob Brezsny, Linda Grattafiori, Bethany Turner, Chris Pendergast, James McCrea
Sheila Keefe Ortiz renders her floral paintings in strong and vivid colors (left), while YiFenn Strickland’s organic ceramics merge functionality with decoration at New Elements Gallery’s ‘Time & Place’ exhibit. Courtesy image.
T
THEATRE>> No two ‘Campfireball’ shows are ever alike but audiences can expect to be engaged and have fun at their own pace if they choose to join Cory Howard’s live show at this year’s Cucalorus Festival. Courtesy image.
SALES>
General Manager:
John Hitt // john@encorepub.com
Advertising:
John Hitt // john@encorepub.com Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com
Sales Manager:
Tiffany Wagner // tiffany@encorepub.com
Office Manager: Susie Riddle // ads@encorepub.com
Distribution Manager: Boykin Wright
Published weekly on Wednesday by HP Media. Opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of encore.
PG. 20
INSIDE THIS WEEK: Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • OpEd, pg. 7 • News of the Weird, pg. 7 News, pg. 9 • Music, pgs. 10-15 • Art, pgs. 16-17 • Theatre, pgs. 18-21 Film, pgs. 22-33 • Dining, pgs. 34-39 • Calendar, pgs. 42-53
2 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Editor-in-Chief:
Shea Carver // shea@encorepub.com
<<ART
PG. 16
EDITORIAL>
6700 Netherlands Drive, Ste. A, Wilmington, NC 28405 P.O. Box 12430, Wilmington, N.C. 28405 email@encorepub.com • www.encorepub.com Phone: (910) 791-0688 • Fax: (910) 791-9534
Tuesday, November 21 aT 3:30 pm & 7:30 pm Ticket Central 910.362.7999 www.CapeFearStage.com
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 3
NEWS>>LIVE LOCAL
LIVE LOCAL, LIVE SMALL:
UnTappd taps into the brewery business, with concept employeed by local gang members BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER
I
MAN WITH A MISSION: George Taylor gives a talk at Ironclad Brewery about his upcoming new brewery, Tru Colors, which will work to keep gangs off the street and invested in more positive ways within the community. Courtesy photo: Eileen O’Malley
n the past five years, the brewery scene in Wilmington has mushroomed. Flytrap, Ironclad, Waterline, New Anthem, Broomtail, Wilmington Brewing Company. The list of breweries opening goes on and on. Clearly, it is a big business. According to the trade association representing small and independent American craft brewers, The Brewers Association, in 2016 independent brewers made 24.6 million barrels for the American public to consume. 2016 was a big year of growth for breweries, with 16.6 percent growth bringing the total to 5,301 breweries. The association’s annual report breaks it down as “3,132 microbreweries, 1,916 brewpubs, 186 regional craft breweries
and 67 large or otherwise non-craft brewers. Small and independent breweries account for 99 percent of the breweries in operation. Throughout the year, there were 826 new brewery openings and only 97 closings. Combined with already existing and established breweries and brewpubs, craft brewers provided nearly 129,000 jobs, an increase of almost 7,000 from the previous year.” New breweries continue to open in our area and across the country. Among them is Tru Colors Brewing, which expects to open its doors. People launch businesses for different reasons: Some because they have a burning passion—say for beer, coffee or food.
4 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Some want to build a legacy to pass on to future generations. Other people want to be their own boss. Still, others are fascinated with entrepreneurship as a puzzle to solve—new water to navigate. The answers as to “why” are as varied as the paths to business ownership. Tru Colors grew out of local entrepreneur George Taylor’s inquisitive mind. He cites the death of 16-year old Shane Simpson on December 20, 2015, as a turning point. Simpson died in a drive-by shooting. Like many locals, Taylor asked, “How could this happen here?” But Taylor went a step further and called District Attorney Ben David to find out how to meet with gang members. Eventually, through the Wilmington Police
Department, Taylor was connected with a man billed to him as “a leader in the Bloods gang.” They spent a lot of time talking over the next six months and traveled together. “We went to St. Benedict’s School in Newark and Homeboy Industries in LA to see what they were doing about gang problems,” Taylor recalls. It was a bit unexpected for both men, but it seemed to work. “I always assumed gangs were all about crime—sort of organized crime like the mafia,” Taylor recounts. “What I learned was they’re actually pretty bad at crime; they get arrested a lot. I’m not saying some gang members don’t commit crimes, but gangs are not about organized crime. Nobody wants to
sell drugs or shoot people. The drugs are driven by economics and the shootings are a byproduct of the drugs.” Taylor saw contributing factors to gang culture running deep and encompassing social, racial and economic factors. It intrigued him as it challenged his mindset. “I like complicated problems,” he says. “That’s a big part of the fun in the startup world.” And Taylor would know. He oversees NextGlass/UnTappd, an app company that sells promotional analytic software related to wine/beer on smart phones and in major businesses. In addition, he serves as chairman for JOMO, a social activity app, and National Speed, a tech-based automotive startup. “I hired a couple of guys who were good at selling things on the street,” Taylor explains. “We hired them to see how they would do with traditional business sales for Untappd.” Taylor’s new recruits got to work, talking with potential customers, and today once actually holds sales records within the company. “About March or so of this year, I wanted to move forward with a bigger test,” Taylor describes. “I decided to hire the leadership of all but one of the gangs in town.”
earlier, I always assumed gangs were all about crime. The truth is, only about 20 or 25 percent do illegal activities. Gangs are much more akin to a fraternity. At its core, it’s about brotherhood, loyalty and community—not crime.” Taylor sees great success for Tru Colors, largely because it is strictly in the land of a for-profit entity. “We don’t operate at all like a nonprofit,” he divulges. “We don’t view our team as underprivileged or victims. In return, we expect people to perform well. We’re not politically correct at all, and I don’t give a damn what’s happened to you in your past. This is not a nonprofit, and if you want to be part of Tru Colors, you need to step up fast and make things happen. If you can’t do that, then you’ll need to go on your way.”
DETAILS:
Gangs, Entrepreneurship and Beer
Nov. 9, 4:15 p.m. Windell Daniels Hall Taylor offered what he refers to as a CFCC Union Station two-month bootcamp of life and business 502 N. Front St. skills. He offered to open a brewery if they Admission: CONNECT Pass gave him two months without firing a shot while on his payroll. Taylor reports they are moving ahead with the brewery. Rather than worrying about what most people first fear—working with members from Bloods or Crips—Taylor says they’ve built trust. Today he worries about titles, like who will be CEO and brewmaster of Tru Colors Brewing. “The Wilmington brewery will distribute throughout North Carolina,” he notes. The restaurant and brew pub location will be kind of like a Hard Rock Cafe. “Instead of guitars, it will be gang themed—though, not in a glamorizing way,” Taylor clairifies. “Once we get it done, we hope to open several in cities around the country.” Taylor points to the entrepreneurship and economic pieces as key for the gang members’ interests. “They make good money, they can make really good money if it goes well,” he notes. “We think we can hire about 100 active gang members within 18 months of the brewery opening.” Salaries are expected to be in the $40,000 range. It is an intriguing idea all around, and Cucalorus CONNECT is giving the community a chance to learn about the project and ask questions of Taylor directly. “At Cucalorus I’ll have a fireside chat with a friend, Kevin Mauer, and we are going to talk about how this got started,” Taylor tells. “Like I said
CUCALORUS PASS/TICKET RUNDOWN Pegasorus: $350
All access to Cucalorus film and stage events, and CONNECT conference, “all-festival” events (like Friday’s oyster party), and special spaces like filmmaker’s lounge and Jengo’s backyard.
Film Pass: $200
Access to every Cucalorus film, “all-festival” events (like Friday’s oyster party), and special spaces like filmmaker’s lounge and Jengo’s backyard.
Stage Pass: $60
Access to every Cucalorus stage event, as well as “all-festival” events (like Friday’s oyster party), and special spaces like filmmaker’s lounge and Jengo’s backyard.
Ticket Packages: 5/$60 or 10/$120
Choose your tickets to stage and film events.
CONNECT Pass: $60 or $35/per day
All access to Cucalorus CONNECT conference Nov. 9-10, “all-festival” events (like Friday’s oyster party), and special spaces like filmmaker’s lounge and Jengo’s backyard.
Tickets
$10 - $15 per event • www.cucalorus.org encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 5
‘Tis the season to give and receive... to p u in
W
$10k
e m i t in ! t s h y g a i r d oli h e h for t
DREAMS and encore present a holiday 50/50 raffle! Buy a ticket for $100 for a chance to win half the pot. Our goal is to sell 200 tickets, so you could win up to $10,000; DREAMS receives the other half!
Tickets: www.dreams2020.org/encore
6 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Community Holiday Party
DREAMS Garage • 901 Fanning St. Live Music & Comedy (from Pineapple-Shaped Lamps)
Food & Beverages (beer, wine, soda)
Arts & Crafts Market (from DREAMS’ students)
Raffle Drawing
ADMISSION: Free w/raffle ticket ($100; 4 drink tickets included) $7 (1 drink ticket included)
Drink tickets: $4
TRADITIONS
The 72nd annual Yellville (Arkansas) Turkey Trot, which took place on Oct. 14, is famous for its Turkey Drop, in which live turkeys are dropped from a low-flying airplane and then chased by festivalgoers. This year, KY3.com reports, several turkeys were dropped during the afternoon despite animal-rights activists having filed a formal complaint with the sheriff’s office, saying the pilot “terrorized” the birds. But pharmacist and past pilot Dana Woods told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: “We treat the turkeys right. That may sound ironic, but we don’t abuse those turkeys. We coddle and pet those turkeys. We’re good to them.” Wild turkeys can fly, but in 2016, about a dozen turkeys were dropped and not all survived the fall. According to The Washington Post, over the past several years, local sponsors and the chamber of commerce have distanced themselves from the Turkey Drop, now more than five decades old. The Federal Aviation Administration is checking to see if any laws or regulations were broken, but said it has not intervened in past years because the turkeys are not considered to be projectiles.
‘TIS THE SEASON
Could turkeys be sensing the peril of the season? Police in Bridgewater, Massachusetts, tweeted a warning to the town’s residents on Oct. 15 about aggressive wild turkeys, WBZ-TV reported. As proof, an accompanying video showed four turkeys chasing a Bridgewater police cruiser, but police were not as amused as their Twitter followers. “Aggressive turkeys are a problem in town,” the department tweeted. “State law doesn’t allow the police or (animal control) to remove them.”
UPDATE
In 1990, Marlene Warren, 40, answered her door in Wellington, Florida, and was shot in the face by a clown bearing balloons (one of which read “You’re the greatest!”) and flowers. On Sept. 26, Palm Beach County Sgt. Richard McAfee announced that Warren’s widower’s current wife, Sheila Keen Warren, 54, had been arrested for the murder, 27 years after the fact, and taken into custody in Abingdon, Virginia. Sheila Keen married Michael Warren in 2002, NBC News reported. (Warren went to pris-
on in 1994 for odometer tampering, grand theft and racketeering in connection with his car rental agency.) Sheila had worked for him, repossessing cars, and they were reportedly having an affair when the murder took place. While Sheila had always been a suspect, new technology finally allowed prosecutors to retest DNA evidence and build a case against her.
SEX THERAPY
Zookeepers believe China’s 4-year-old giant panda Meng Meng, currently on loan to the Berlin Zoo, displays her displeasure with her surroundings, food or caretakers by walking backward. “Meng Meng is in puberty,” zoo director Andreas Knieriem explained to the Berliner Zeitung newspaper on Oct. 22. “The reverse walk is a protest.” To address the situation, zookeepers will introduce Meng Meng to Jiao Qing, a male giant panda three years older, who presumably will ease her frustration by engaging in sexual activity with her.
all the surfaces he had used. Then he took off through the back window, the same way he had come in.
between Paris and London. The label on the Cuban stogie includes Churchill’s name.
PEOPLE DIFFERENT FROM US
Coroner’s pathologist Elmo A. Griggs, 75, was arrested Sept. 12 in Morgan County, Indiana, for drunken driving, but it was what was rolling around in the back of his pickup truck that caught officers’ attention. Along with a half-empty vodka bottle, Griggs was transporting several labeled totes, according to the Indianapolis Star, containing organic material. Marshal Bradley K. Shaw of the Brooklyn Police Department said early investigations showed the totes contained brain and liver samples. Griggs’ wife posted on Facebook that he “had a bad day and had a couple of drinks before driving home,” but court documents revealed he failed all field sobriety tests.
In Lissone, Italy, 40-year-old fitness instructor Laura Mesi made news when she married herself in late September. “I told my relatives and friends that if I had not found my soul mate, I would marry myself by my 40th birthday,” Mesi said, according to The Independent. She spent more than 10,000 euros ($11,700) for the occasion, which included a white wedding dress, a three-tiered cake, bridesmaids and 70 guests. Mesi is part of a self-marrying movement dubbed “sologamy” that has followers all over the world. Her marriage holds no legal significance. “If tomorrow I find a man to build a future with, I will be happy, but my happiness will not depend on him,” Mesi declared. An anonymous collector from Palm Beach, Florida, was the winning bidder in an Oct. 11 online auction for a half-smoked cigar that British Prime Minister Winston Churchill enjoyed during a 1947 trip to Paris. AP reports the 4-inch cigar remnant brought just over $12,000 in the auction managed by Boston-based RR Auction. The company says Churchill smoked the cigar on May 11, 1947, at Le Bourget Airport. A British airman, Cpl. William Alan Turner, kept the cigar after he and his crew flew Churchill and his wife
CRIME REPORT
IT’S GOOD TO HAVE GOALS
Alysha Orrok of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, will head to Las Vegas in February to compete for the $10,000 prize in the National Grocers Association 2018 Best Bagger contest, reports The New York Times. Orrok, who recently won the New Hampshire competition, is a teacher who moonlights at a Hannaford Supermarket. Competitors are judged on multiple skills, including speed, weight distribution, appearance and technique.
LUCKY!
Kenyans Gilbert Kipleting Chumba and David Kiprono Metto were among the favorites to win the Venice Marathon on Oct. 22. Instead, Eyob Ghebrehiwet Faniel, 25, a local running in only his second marathon, took the prize after the lead runners were led several hundred meters off-course by an errant guide motorcycle. Faniel is the first Italian man to win the Venice Marathon in 22 years. “Today’s race shows that the work is paying off,” Faniel said following his victory. Uh, sure.
MOST CONSIDERATE CRIMINAL
Nelly’s Taqueria in Hicksville, New York, suffered a break-in on Oct. 3, but the burglar redefined the term “clean getaway.” Surveillance video showed a man donning food-service gloves and starting a pot of water to boil before hammering open the cash register. He secured $100 in his pockets, leaving a dollar in the tip jar, then started “cooking up a storm,” owner Will Colon told Newsday. Cameras recorded as the thief cooked beans, sauteed shrimp and chicken, and helped himself to a cold soda before enjoying his meal standing up. “The way he handled that pan, man, the dude had some skills,” Colon said. Afterward, he carefully stored the leftovers in the refrigerator, cleaned his pans and wiped down
BRUNCH ON THE BEACH Indoor and Outdoor Seating Oceanfront Carolina Beach
Serving 11 a.m. Sundays $5 Mimosa $5 Bloody Mary $5 Michelada
1211 S. Lake Park Blvd • 910-458-2000 www.oceangrilltiki.com encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 7
Deal of the Week This week only: November 8 November 14 Limited quantity!
$25 gift certificates for only
$12.50 260 Racine Dr, Wilmington (910) 799-6799
yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.com
Only available at encoredeals.com 8 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
NEWS>>FEATURE
PLASTIC STRAW FAUX PAS: Illuminating America’s addiction to single-use plastic
L
BY: JOHN WOLFE
ittle things matter.
That’s the message behind the new short documentary, “Straws,” showing at Cucalorus on Thursday, Nov. 9, at 1 p.m. at Union Station. Directed and produced by Linda Booker, narrated by Academy-Awardwinning actor Tim Robbins, and featuring music by Uniontown and San-Franciscobased M the Machine, the film weaves together stories from activists, restaurateurs, biologists, and artists to focus on the giant problem of plastic in the ocean around one seemingly innocuous item: the plastic straw. According to the film, the average daily U.S. consumption of plastic drinking straws (which are, as the film points out, nonrecyclable and “only solve the problem of, what? Lifting a cup to your face?”) is in the neighborhood of 500-550 million. To put it another way, America uses so many straws in 24 hours that, if lined up end to end, they would wrap around the circumference of Earth two and a half times. Mostly, once the straws get used, they end up in landfills—or worse, the ocean. Clearly, we need to have a country-wide discussion about national habits. And that’s where the film fits in. By choosing to zoom in on one bite-sized element of a larger issue, we can begin to see solutions, rather than become overwhelmed by the scale of the problem. The film looks to restaurants (including East at the Blockade Runner on Wrightsville Beach) which have made the switch to biodegradable paper straws, and points out how they not only produce less waste but can actually save money. “I want people to never use a plastic straw again,” says producer Linda Booker during our phone interview. It’s not an anti-straw film, she claims, but a film that urges people to look closer at their single-use plastic habits and “start the conversation [about] consumption and production of plastics.” About 91 percent of plastics made to date still exist on Earth and take a long time to break down. She mentions that most plastic found in oceanic gyres (large, circular pelagic currents which encourage flotsam to congregate in one place) date from 30 to 40 years ago. “I wanted to find a way to demonstrate a global problem in a way that was impactful, while also being careful not to overwhelm people,” she continues.
One way she achieves this is through humor. The film opens with a short animated segment explaining the history of straws and how we got to where we are today. The drawings are goofy, and the sound effects are campy and incite a few chuckles, which the film completely allows. It’s a welcome relief from the typical (and unfortunately, accurate) doom-and-gloom portrait most environmentally-focused films bludgeon the viewer over the head with. Booker admitted her inspiration as a filmmaker comes not only from the documentarians she respects who helped define the genre (Michael Moore, Errol Morris and Morgan Spurlock), but also from the twisted humor of Monty Python and the Coen brothers. This is the third film Booker has shown at Cucalorus: “Love Lived on Death Row” and “Bringing it Home,” which she co-directed with Blaire Johnson, cinematographer on “Straws” and Booker’s classmate at Duke University’s documentary film program. This project was born while Booker was at the Sonoma International Film Festival (where “Straws” was also shown). “Straws were not on my radar,” she explained. There are lots of policies and discussions surrounding bottles and bags, but not straws. While there she met activist Jackie Nunez from Monterrey, California, a kayak guide who has seen firsthand the impact humanity’s debris can have on wild spaces. Nunez, who appears frequently in the film, speaks of a personal epiphany while in a restaurant overlooking Monterrey Bay. She was handed a drink with a straw in it, which she didn’t ask for. It was her own personal “last straw.” So she started the “Last Plastic Straw” campaign to urge local restaurants to move away from the wasteful devices, switch to biodegradable alternatives, and implement a straw-by-request-only policy. “I was intrigued,” Booker says. After a successful Kickstarter campaign (boosted by a miraculous last-minute “angel funder” from LA), “Straws” was underway. It was perhaps serendipitous that, during production of the film, a video of a sea turtle with a plastic straw caught in its nose went viral. “The turtle became the mascot,” Booker tells. That one video helped demonstrate how large of an effect a small plastic item like a straw can have on wildlife. Elsewhere we have seen pictures of the rainbow cornucopia of plastic pieces found in the gullets of decomposing albatross or
nutrient-starved fish, but there’s something about a sea turtle that makes people perk up and pay attention—especially when the turtle seems to wince when the researcher removes the culprit straw. That one turtle, like in ancient legend, seemed to carry the weight of all human pollution of the world on its back. Booker knew she had to fly to Costa Rica to interview the researchers who filmed the incident; she got some of my favorite footage in the entire film. It’s always nice to see a work of art make a positive impact on the real world. Aardvark Straws, the maker of the paper straws featured in the film, has pledged to donate their product for use at Cucalorus. The paper straws will be exclusively used at Cucalorus parties and in the filmmakers’ lounge.
grandkids playing on a beach (which might be lapping at the shores of Raleigh by that point, if sea-level rise continues) free of plastic pollution, and covered in shells and driftwood and ghost crabs, not straws and grocery bags. A conscious choice on the part of all of us can help make that happen. And next time, before you drink from a straw, think of turtles.
DETAILS:
Sky Panel Shorts: Documents and Debts
Featuring Straws and more Thurs., Nov. 9, 1 p.m. CFCC Union Station While our work ahead still remains cut out 411 N. Front St. for us, education from films like this play a key part in shaping the choices we make today, Tickets: $10 which can help change how the future looks. I, for one, would like to see my someday-
SAME MERCH NEW PRICE!
T-SHIRT 13.99
FREAKERS 8.99
visit www.portcityjava.com to apply today
THERMAL MUG 6.99
VULCANO MUG 9.99
SCOUT MUG 9.99
WAVY TUMBLER 6.99
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 9
ARTS>>MUSIC
HISTORY OF THE BLUES:
Stéfan Cédilot brings ‘Zeppelin Was a Cover Band’ to Cucalorus 23 to communicate with the audience and play a bit of air guitar.
BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY
S
“It’s not so much about Led Zeppelin,” he observes. “And in the age of the Internet, anyone who wants to know this stuff can just Google it. They don’t need me to figure it out. The only thing we’ve really got for us is they don’t know how I’m going to tell the story.”
téfan Cédilot has spent 11 years recounting stories of how Led Zeppelin built a career on essentially pillaging the works of others in “Zeppelin Was a Cover Band.” Alongside audiences and co-creator Ben Kalman, who spins Zeppelin tunes and their inspired songs from artists as far back as the 1920s, they take moments to listen while Cédilot identifies what ended up in Zeppelin’s canon by the late 1960s.
Though the fact remains Led Zeppelin stole many a song, melody and lyric for their own music, Cédilot highlights how wild the ‘60s were. In some ways, it was the wild west of copyright laws. There there was no structure to protect the rights of blues songwriters from the ‘20s, ‘30s, ‘40s, and even ‘50s.
While at first glance the show may sound like a jab at Led Zeppelin and their rocky history of copyright lawsuits, “Zeppelin Was a Cover Band” is a more endearing combination of live storytelling and theatrical performance. “We’re huge fans of Zeppelin,” Cédilot clarifies. “I say this because a lot people don’t get the irony of the title. Some people assume we’re Zeppelin haters, and we’re going to prove they were the worst band ever. It’s quite the opposite, in fact.” Cédilot and company use better-known songs and hits from the Zep canon almost as backing tracks to the stories behind them, which they’ve researched ad nauseam. The whole point of the show is to tell a larger story—a history, really—of the blues. “We talk about all these folk artists and blues artists that influenced Led Zeppelin,” he continues. “We talk about artists that Led Zeppelin grew up with—who they idolized and the artists that basically determined what would become the ‘Zeppelin sound.’” While die-hard fans or aficionados may be skeptical—even to the point of debate before seeing the show—Cédilot says he doesn’t get a lot of folks disagreeing with what he presents. On the contrary, most of the time, folks approach him afterward with more ideas, stories or songs they should add to the mix. After more than a decade of touring, it still happens after almost every performance. “People don’t realize how much we actually do know,” Cédilot points out. “When we first started and people came up to us saying, ‘You didn’t about this song or that song,’ at the time, it was highly likely we had no idea. Zeppelin fans who came
COVERING ZEPPELIN: Stéfan Cédilot digs deep into the history of the blues that Led Zeppelin ultimately plundered in ‘Zeppelin was a Cover Band.’ Courtesy photo.
to those shows taught us a lot. Over the years, when people come up to us with this or that, we’d do our research, and if they were right, we’d probably integrate it into the show. After 11 years of doing this, I’d say we’re 90 percent sure we’re aware of everything. It’s been a few years since someone was able to tell us something we were not actually aware of.” That said, “Zeppelin Was a Cover Band” has evolved significantly in recent years. It used to be a solid two-hour show, but they had to cut it down when they started nationally touring for festivals like this year’s Cucalorus 23, which will be their debut in the United States, on November 10. Though it was difficult to cut 45 minutes, Cédilot wanted to avoid leaping down the rabbit hole, so to speak. For example, there’s a story behind every song. Yet, quite frankly, some can be boring. “It still has to be an interesting, entertaining 75-minute show,” he notes. “But if we analyzed every single song Zeppelin ever made, we’d end up with like a six-hour thing. . . . In the end, it was all about keeping it dynamic and making sure people enjoy the show throughout the whole 75 minutes. Whereas, with the older version, you could tell when people had just had
10 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
enough, [laughs] and even the most hardcore Led Zeppelin fan could not take any more information.” One of Cédilot’s favorite stories remains to be of famed 1930s bluesman Robert Johnson, who supposedly sold his soul to the devil for his unearthly talents on guitar. According to legend, Johnson met the devil somewhere at the crossroads of the Mississippi Delta to make the deal. “As the rumor spread over the years, the story of crossroads became infamous and was taken to heart by many,” Cédilot explains. “It truly seemed to be the most plausible explanation for Johnson’s abilities. And Robert Johnson decided to roll with it. He even wrote a song called ‘Crossroad Blues,’ where he decided to set the record straight and tell his own version of his meeting with the devil. Basically, for a lot of people, he confirmed he had definitely sold his soul. Obviously, the whole thing was invented, but it makes for an amazing story.” Cédilot also notes Johnson was a master of the sexual metaphor in blues, and ties it into his show with Zeppelin’s famous line, “Squeeze me baby/‘till the juice runs down my leg,” from 1969’s “The Lemon Song” off “Led Zeppelin II.”
“So when all of these British rock bands from the ‘60s started recording their favorite old-American blues numbers, there was no obligation to credit the songs,” he continues. “That’s just how it worked in those days. One of the only exceptions for that era was The Rolling Stones, who, despite this, have insisted the original artists be credited for the songs. Though, they had no legal obligation to do it.” As a genuine fan of music in general, Cédilot tries to remain as objective as possible. For him, while people can judge artists as human beings, it doesn’t change the art itself. “For me, [Led Zeppelin] music is amazing—you can’t really say objectively to the contrary. At the same time, there’s a whole context that has to do with the era, but it’s pretty clear to me that by 1976, if people were still doing this, they were very much aware. When [Zeppelin] started getting sued in the ‘80s, they really didn’t try so hard to deny it. I think they saw it coming; I think they expected this to happen at some point. So they went to court and they lost. A lot. In the end, they had to credit all of the artists.
DETAILS:
Zeppelin Was a Cover Band
Friday, Nov. 10, 7 p.m. Bourgie Nights Cédilot exploits his own animated “geeky” personality as the storyteller as 127 Princess St. well. Surrounded by a simple set, which Tickets: $10 could be a friend’s living room or basement hangout, he uses passionate enthusiasm
cucalorus.org
SOUND & VISION
ARTS>>MUSIC
KAZOOS OUT THE WAZOO:
cuc music
Shirely Gnome returns to Cucalorus with new caberet comedy show BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY
“I
Still, she’s excited to return. The response from last year’s crowds were invigorating, but Gnome wants to actually get a chance to perform and enjoy the festival for 2017. “I didn’t see as many films [last year] that I wanted because I was quite busy,” she tells. “This year I specifically asked to just emcee two movies—and to not do [standup at] Dead Crow—so I can watch as many movies as possible this time.” Gnome’s show is a one-woman countryfolk-rock-comedy cabaret, wherein she plays some guitar and sings with a full band backing track. Her lyrics and songs typically cover risqué topics, such as sex, sexuality, human nature, emotion, and the like. “It’s stuff you wouldn’t bring up at the dinner table,” she confirms. “Unspoken truths and things people think about but don’t necessarily say out loud, and I make them into fun and catchy country-pop songs.” She is currently signed to 604 Records, with whom she released “Taking It Up The Notch” earlier this month. Gnome’s been touring with her latest work, from Canada to Australia and across the U.S. Neverthe-
Fri., Nov. 10, 9:30 p.m. Bourgie Nights 127 Princess St. Free for passholders
’ve broken into this new style of performance that I’m calling ‘fucked up cover songs,’” singer-songwriter and comedian Shirley Gnome divulges in her interview with encore last week. She’s preparing to make her triumphant return to ILM after winning the Cucalorus Buzz Repeat 1 last year. “I’ve kind of been doing it for a while—like last year at Cucalorus I did a cover of an Adele song,” she recalls. “Except, instead of singing it, I played it with a Kazoo … and I put the Kazoo in my genitals. So, I was playing a serious Adele song but playing it in the most ridiculous way possible.” Shirley Gnome’s presence onstage is as large as Dolly Parton’s, with her bright country-western garb and blonde locks, capped with a cowgirl hat. Her act, however, is far from anything found on the “The Porter Wagoner Show.” Gnome will return to Cucalorus 23 with a new show and album—plus, fun, silly merch. But, sorry, folks, she won’t be hosting a cooter-Kazoo performance workshop—at least, not this year. “It’s a very difficult skill and it’s a very big secret, so it’d be an expensive workshop!” Gnome quips.
The Swing Shifters
The Swing Shifters are providing music for the Cuctails Party at Bourgie Nights on Friday! The Swing Shifters recently came together in Wilmington, NC, as players and lovers of swing music, playing everything from gypsy jazz to standards, originals to other genres rgar swings. Read more about the Cuctails parties and workshops at cucalorus.org.
Psylo Joe
Fri., Nov. 10, 9 p.m. The Whiskey 1 S. Front St. COUNTRY CABERET: Shirley Gnome is coming back to Cucalorus with a brand new act. Photo by Rufio Van Hoover.
less, she’s been trying to come up with more Kazoo covers. In fact, when she performed at Australia’s Melbourne Comedy Fest last April, her rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” went over so well they invited her to close out the women’s comedy showcase for around 2,000 people. “And I won’t spoil it for you, [but] I’m hopefully going to do it at the festival,” she adds. Gnome is set for two performances at North Front Theatre (formerly City Stage) in downtown Wilmington on Friday, Nov. 10, and Saturday, Nov. 11. “One of the shows at 1:45 p.m. [on Saturday is] a terrible time for a show like mine,” she observes, “but if people show up for that one, I promise it will be super weird and special.” One of Gnome’s favorite songs in rotation right now was written specifically for her last tour to Australia. It’s an ode of sorts in celebration of being able to say the word “cunt” without shattering sensitive ears. “[Laughs] Yes, the naughty, naughty ‘c’ word that’s so taboo here,” she says, “but [in Australia] it’s a compliment. I’m really proud of that one! That’s really the most poppy song I’ve done. I worked with this great producer in Vancouver who’s really good at making those kinds of tracks for a living. . . . I want to try to do one supercatchy pop song a year.”
However, Gnome has to be cognizant of how some material goes over on this side of the pond. For example, the aforementioned “cunt” tune did not resonate with Floridians at a recent Orlando show. “I don’t know if they get a lot of Australians in Florida,” she muses. “Sometimes when I’m doing a run at a festival, I’ll do a preview night where I do every single song and sort gauge reactions—because, of course, there’s cultural context for everything. But at things like Cucalorus, where I only have one or two shows, sometimes I’ll just ask the audience and feel out the room to see if a song’s really going to go over. But the only way to really know is to try.” While Cucalorus audiences are more open-minded about artistic content, let’s face it: If Gnome was applauded for her Kazoo performance last year, then Cuc-fans are likely up for anything she throws their way this week.
DETAILS:
Shirley Gnome: Taking It Up The Notch Fri., Nov. 10, 7:45 p.m. Sat., Nov. 11, 1:45 p.m. North Front Theatre 21 N. Front St., #501 Tickets: $10 cucalorus.org
Experimental funk-rock band Psylo Joe from Greenville, NC, will play The Whiskey. With major influences in blues, jazz, funk, and traditional, they go beyond the line, and challenge each other as musicians and people. It’s a form of communication that is the easiest to explain through music. Passholders get in free.
New World Symphony Sat., Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m. CFCC’s Wilson Center 703 N. 3rd St. Tickets: $25-$35
The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra returns with a classical and pops concert presented by the orchestra, which includes 65 to 70 experienced musicians from around the Cape Fear. A sound installation will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the lobby from The Waking Life! Passholders get in free but must bring passes to the symphony box office to receive tickets ahead of time. For more information visit www.cucalorus.org.
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 11
DISCOVER NEW MUSIC AT 98.3 THE PENGUIN
PLAYLIST SAMPLE: GREGG ALLMAN - I LOVE THE LIFE I LIVE THE WAR ON DRUGS - PAIN TRAMPLED BY TURTLES - WHERE IS MY MIND TYLER CHILDERS - UNIVERSAL SOUND KRISTIN DIABLE - I'LL MAKE TIME FOR YOU LUKAS NELSON & PROMISE OF THE REAL - CAROLINA BECK - UP ALL NIGHT JOE COCKER - DELTA LADY ELLE KING - EX'S AND OH'S ARETHA FRANKLIN - THE WEIGHT
NEW MUSIC ADDED: SPOON - DO I HAVE TO TALK YOU INTO IT GREAT VAN FLEET - FLOWER POWER SON LITTLE - O ME O MY LANGHORNE SLIM - LIFE IS CONFISING
UPCOMING PENGUIN SHOWS: THE PENGUIN PRESENTS BIG SOMETHING AND THE MIDATLANTIC AS THEY MAKE THEIR DEBUT AT THE HOUSE OF BLUES SATURDAY 11/11!!
SPECIALTY SHOWS: The Evening Experiment with Eric Miller, Wednesdays 7-9pm Acoustic Cafe Saturdays from 7-9am, etown Saturdays at 9am Putumayo World Music Hour Sundays at 8am
www.983thepenguin.com 12 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
BRING IT ON! Saturday, An afternoon of dynamic November transformational speakers and performers, including: 11th Shell Island Resort 2700 N. Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach
2 p.m. 7 p.m. Evening reception afterward to mingle, dine and dance! OPEN BAR BUFFET DINNER
Tom Morris
Dorothy Papadakos
Philosopher, Corporate Advisor, and Best Selling Author
Author, Compser, Lyricist & Organist
James Brandon
Tracy McCullen
Professional Magician, Comedian, Illusionist, Emcee and Actor
‘Visual Artist of Outdoor Space’
Tickets: $100
(limited quantity for $50 on encoreDEALS.com) More info: https://www.byoga.biz/workshops
A PREVIEW OF EVENTS ACROSS TOWN THIS WEEK
THE SOUNDBOARD
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8
Port City Trivia with Dutch (6:30pm; Free)
—Magnolia Greens Golf Course, 1800 Tommy Jacobs Dr.
Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
The Jillettes (7pm; $3)
—Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379
The Annex Songwriter Session #12 (7pm; $5) —Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N. 4th St.; 910-538-2939
THURSDAY
100 S. FRONT ST. 910-251-1832 LIVE MUSIC in the courtyard 7 days a week
$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 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
SUNDAY
Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)
—The Blind Elephant, 21 N. Front St., Unit F
Trivia Night: Party Gras Entertainment (7pm; Free) —Hoplite Pub and Beer Garden, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.
DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; Free; Electric Dance Party) —Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.
Extreme Music Bingo w/ Party Gras (10pm; Free) —Fox and Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.; 910-509-0805
Total-B*llsh*t (6pm; Free; Rock)
—The Felix Cafe, 2140 Burnett Blvd.
Mishka (8pm; $10; Reggae)
—The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.; 910-762-2091
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9
Coworx + SISDigital Grand Opening Party w/ Jenny Pearson and Stray Local (5pm; Free; Folk) —Coworx, 1608 Queen St.
Neighborhood Food Truck Night with Live Music (6pm; Free) —Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market St.; 910-599-4999
Open Mic Comedy (7pm; $0-$3)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
Firedrums Fire Dancers (7:30pm; Free)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
Trivia Night w/ Party Gras Entertainment (7:30pm; Free)
SINGER-SONGWRITER: Frontman of The Bone Chimes band Tobi is touring the country as a solo act, with his next stopover at Wilmington’s Flytrap Brewing on November 11. Photo by Anjanette Photos.
HOW TO SUBMIT A LISTING:
www.RuckerJohns.com VISIT WWW.RUCKERJOHNS.COM FOR Friday Monday DAILY SPECIALS, MUSIC & EVENTS Select Appetizers halfMONDAY off $ 4 Cosmopolitan $ 2 Big Domestic Draft Beers $550 Caramel Apple Martini ALL DAY $ 95 22oz. Domestic Draft $ 4 RJ’s Coffee 3 Sam Adams and Blue $5 Pizzas Moon Seasonal Bottles Tuesday TUESDAY 1/2 off Select Bottles of Wine saTurday LIVE(sugar JAzz IN THE BAR $ 5 Absolut Dream rim) $ 6 All Southern Half Price Bottles of Wine Shiners $ 3 NC Brewed Bottles $ $ 50 3-22oz Blue$2Moon Draft • Pacifico Absolut Dream (Shotgun, Buckshot, High $ 550 2 Select Domestic Bottles Roller and Hoppyum)
WEDNESDAY
sunday Wednesday Miller Light Pints $150$ Coronoa/ 5 All$2Flat 50 Breads 1/2 off Nachos Corona Lite Bottles $ 50 $4 Bloody$ Marys 1 Domestic Pints Margaritas/Peach Margaritas 4 Pints $ 50 $ 50 1 Domestic 2 Corona/Corona Lt. $ 5 White Russians $ 50 THURSDAY 4 Margaritas on the Rocks Visit our $website Appletinis $4, RJ’s Painkiller 5
Thursday www.RuckerJohns.com $ 50 2 Red Stripe for Bottles $ 50 daily specials, music and 2 Fat Tire Bottles $ 50 2 Fat Tire Bottles upcoming events $ 00 3 22oz. Goose Island IPA $ 95 4 Irish Coffee FRIDAY5564 Carolina $ 50 Cosmos $4, 007 Beach 3 Road 1/2 off ALL Premium Red Wine Glasses Guinness Cans $3
(910)-452-1212
Island Sunsets $5 SATURDAY $ 417 S College Rd. Baybreeze/Seabreeze 4 (TheDraft old $Sandbar) 3 22oz. Blue Moon $ OpenBottles Wed-Sat 5-2, 2 Select Domestic Sun 12-12 SUNDAY $ Bloody Marys 910.769.3887 4, Domestic Wednesday Pints $150 night BOOGEY TO THE $BEAT LINE Hurricanes 5 DANCING LESSONS, 7PM-9PM 5564 Carolina Beach Road,
Thursday night COLLEGE NIGHT (910)-452-1212 with DJ Elementary
—Fox and Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.; 910-509-0805
$1 DRAFT BEER • $1 JELLO SHOTS
NC Symphony: The Music of Star Wars (7:30pm; $60-$66)
Country Music Award Winning
—Wilson Center, 703 N. 3rd St.
DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; $3)
—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.
TJ Kong & The Atomic Bomb (9pm; Cover TBA) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
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.
Friday night - NOVEMBER 10th
Mike Gossin with the Gossin Brothers Saturday night - NOVEMBER 11th
Tuesday Gone (Lynard Skynard Tribute) Sunday - FREE COOKOUT 1pm-6pm GOSSIN BROTHERS 8pm-11pm www.wilmingtonmonk.com Facebook - The Monk
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 13
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12
—Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379
—Old Books on Front St., 249 N. Front St.; 910-76-BOOKS
Port City Trio (7pm; $3; Jazz)
DON’T MISS!
$3.50 Red Oak Draft $4 Wells 65 Wings, 4-7pm
$3.50 Sweet Josie $4 Margaritas $3.50 Pint of the Day $4 Fire Ball
$3.50 Sweetwaters $4.50 Absolute Lemonade 65 Wings, 4-7pm
$2.75 Yuengling Draft $2.75 Domestic Bottles 65 Wings, 4-7pm
$5 Mimosas $5 Car Bombs $5 Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas *Drink Specials run all day
1423 S. 3rd St. DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON (910) 763-1607 Wednesday
_____________________________________
KARAOKE
w/Elite Entertainment
9PM-2AM • $400 GUINNESS
Thursday ________________________________________
TRIVIA WITH STEVE
8:30 P.M. • PRIZES! • $250 YUENGLING DRAFT $ 50 3 FIREBALL SHOTS
Friday & Saturday __________________________ 2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS
$ 00
Sunday
___________________________________________
BREAKFAST BUFFET 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. • $4 MIMOSA’S
WATCH YOUR FAVORITE TEAM HERE!
For more concerts and events, go online at HOB.COM/MYRTLEBEACH 4640 HWY 17 S. Barefoot Landing 843.272.3000
! s l a e d .com
LIVE MUSIC
11/10 – Dave Matthews Band Tribute 11/11 – Big Something 11/17 – Pandora’s Box 11/18 – The Original Wailers 11/22 – Tru Sol 11/24 – Tuesday’s Gone 11/25 – Biz Markie 12/1 – Clutch 12/8 – The Revivalists 12/29 – JJ Grey & Mofro 12/31 – Corey Smith
Faith Ignited: Jamie Grace (7pm; $25-$40; Contemporary Gospel)
—Kenan Auditorium (UNCW), 601 S. College Rd.; 910-962-3500
The Austin Piazzolla Quintet (7pm; $10) —Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379
Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (8pm; Free)
—Bottega Art Bar and Gallery, 723 N. 4th St.
(as little as $29 a week!)
Call 791-0688 Deadline every Thurs., noon!
—Wilson Center, 703 N. 3rd St.
Sunday DJ Pop-up Electrolounge (7pm; Free)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13
Gypsy Open Mic Mondays (8pm; Free)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
Monday Night Parade: Lit & Friends (9pm; Free)
Jared Sales and Company (9:30pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14
—Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.
—Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.; 910-763-4133
DJ Dr. Jones (10pm; $3)
—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.
Psylo Joe (10pm; Cover TBD; Improv, Jam) —The Whiskey, 1 S Front St;
Dubtown Cosmonauts (10pm; Cover TBD) —The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.; 910-762-2091
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11
Patriotic Music with 208th Army Band (1pm; Free)
—Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.
Tyler Mckaig in the Beer Garden (3pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)
—Wrightsville Beach Brewery, 6201 Oleander Dr.
James Jarvis (6pm; Free; Ambient Jazz Piano) —Candle Nut Restaurant, 21 N. Front St.
End of the Line (7pm; $3; Folk, Americana) —Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379
Wilmington Symphony Orchestra: New World Symphony (7:30pm; $25-$35) Shake and Shag Beach Music (7:30pm; Cover TBD) —Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.
Saturday Night Contra (7:30pm; $5-$10)
—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
Rush Hour Concert: Massive Grass (6:30pm; $5-$10; Bluegrass) —Kenan Auditorium (UNCW), 601 S. College Rd.; 910-962-3500
Belly Dancing For Fun (6:30pm; Donation)
—HARMONY: A Wellness Center & Yoga, 3504 North Kerr Ave.
Comedy Bingo (7pm; Free)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
Tues Night Contra Dance (7:30pm; $5)
—5th Ave. United Methodist Chu., 409 S. 5th Ave.
Colly (9pm; Donation; Cincinnati Rock)
—Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.; 910-763-2223
Electric Kif with Lemon City Trio (9pm; Free) —The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15
Port City Trivia with Dutch (6:30pm; Free)
—Magnolia Greens Golf Course, 1800 Tommy Jacobs Dr.
Improv Comedy (7pm; $3)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (7pm; Free)
—The Blind Elephant, 21 N. Front St., Unit F
Trivia Night: Party Gras Entertainment (7pm; Free) —Hoplite Pub and Beer Garden, 720 N. Lake Park Blvd.
—409 S Fifth Avenue, 409 S. Fifth Ave.
DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; Free; Electric Dance Party)
Cute Boys Club Presents Ryan Higgins (8pm; Free; Comedy)
Extreme Music Bingo: Party Gras (10pm; Free)
—Gravity Records, 612 Castle St.
James Armstrong (8pm; $5-$7; Singer-Songwriter) —Rusty Nail, 1310 S. 5th Ave.
Tobi D’Amore and Yeh Mon Food Truck (8pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.
Total-Bullsh*t (9pm; Free; Rock) —Grace on 2nd, 121 Grace St.
DJ Sir Nick Bland (10pm; $3)
—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave. —Fox and Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16
Corey Hunt Band (6pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter) —Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.
Open Mic Comedy (7pm; $0-$3)
—Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N. Front St.
Acoustic Blues Jam (7pm; $3)
—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.
—Ted’s Fun on the River, 2 Castle St.; 910-231-3379
Nik Greeley & The Operators and more (10pm; Cover TBD; Blues, Jazz)
Trivia Night: Party Gras Entertainment (7:30pm; Free)
Dr. Bacon and Dubtown Cosmonauts (10pm; Cover TBD; Electric, Eclectic)
DJ Lord Walrus (9pm; $3)
—The Whiskey, 1 S. Front St.
—The Calico Room, 107 S. Front St.
14 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Gobsmacked! (3pm; $28-$36; A Capella, Beatbox)
Jared Michael Cline & Pepes Tacos (8pm; Free; Singer-Songwriter)
—Wilson Center, 703 N. 3rd St.
FEATURE YOUR LIVE MUSIC, FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS
Books, Beer & Jazz Piano (3pm; Free)
—Fox and Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.
—Jimmy’s at Red Dogs, 5 N. Lumina Ave.
CONCERTS OUTSIDE OF SOUTHEASTERN NC
SHOWSTOPPERS
16 S. Front St. 910.772.9151
DOWNTOWN LOCATION:
TWO SHOWS: Bon Iver’s albums are described as ‘totems to that faith.’ Check out Bon Iver at one of two shows this month at DPAC in Durham. Photo by Cameron Wittig andCrystal Quinn THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 11/9: Snakehips, Stwo and Promnite 11/10: Appetite For Destruction and Shoot To Thrill 11/11: Nevermind 11/12: Waltz Night 11/14: Daydream Creatures, King Garbage and more 11/15: Yelawolf, Mikey Mike, Big Henri, Cookup Boss 11/17: Slowdive and Soccer Mommy MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE., DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875 11/9: AJJ (Formerly Andrew Jackson Jihad) 11/10: Azizi Gibson 11/11: Max and Loote 11/12: Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real 11/13: J.I.D. and Earthgang 11/16: Blue and Exile 11/17: Kelela DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 123 VIVIAN ST. DURHAM, NC (919) 688-3722 11/8: John Cleese and the Holy Grail 11/9: Straight No Chaser 11/11: Tori Amos 11/12: John McLaughlin and Jimmy Herring 11/13-14: Bon Iver and Aero Flynn LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111 11/9: DeadPhish Orchestra with Maradeen 11/10: GOBLIN and Morricone Youth 11/11: Sister Hazel and JD Eicher Trio 11/12: The Maine, Dreamers and Night Riots 11/13: Hoodie Allen, Luke Christopher and Myles Parrish 11/14: The Original Wailers and E.N. Young 11/15: Ekali, Josh Pan and Y2K 11/16: Dopapod and The Motet
CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 11/9: Lazer/wulf, Cinemechanica and more (Back) 11/10: Modern Measure. (Back) 11/10: Abbey Road LIVE! 11/11: Saint Motel and Gibbz 11/11: Arkells and Irontom (Back) 11/12: Luna and Eleanor Friedberger 11/12: Overcoats and Gordi (Back) 11/13: David Bazan and Michael Nau (Back) 11/14: Johnny Gandelsman (Back) 11/14: Cousin Stizz, Levi Carter, Big Leano and more 11/15: Mo Lowda & The Humble, and more (Back) 11/15: THE STORY SO FAR, TURNSTILE, and more 11/16: City of the Sun (Back) 11/16: Yelawolf, Mikey Mike, Big Henri, Cookup Boss NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE NORTH DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298 11/10: Runaway Gin 11/11: Time Sawyer and Virginia Ground 11/12: Neil Young Tribute and more 11/13: Emery, Civilian, Loyals, and more 11/14: Campfire Caravan, Mipso, and more 11/15: The Dustbowl Revival and Amythyst Kiah 11/16: Passafire and Elephant Convoy
BEST OF 2016
sushI SPECIAL Everyday 2 roll special
WINNER
Choose any 2 specialty rolls for
Voted Best Sushi
Specials valid only at the downtown location
$19.95
THE FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 11/10: Saint Motel 11/11: Drop !t and Slushii 11/12: Hoodie Allen, Luke Christopher and more 11/14: Circa Survive and Thrice THE UNDERGROUND-FILLMORE 820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 11/9: BRUJERIA, Voodoo Glow Skulls and more 11/10: The Sweet Spot 11/11: HBCU Reunion and Friends 11/14: Whitechapel
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 15
VISUAL FEAST
ARTS>> ART
TEMPORAL ABSTRACTIONS:
cuc art Cake Shop
Fri., Nov. 10, 11 p.m. Jengo’s Backyard 815 Princess St.
Cake Shop with Betsy Stout is a delicious multidisciplinary installation, combining elements of pastry arts and body painting. Participants are invited to be frosted as living cakes at this Jengo’s Playhouse late-night event. Passholders get in free.
The John William & Liddie Belle House of Black Infinity
Thurs., Nov. 9, 5 p.m. Sat., Nov. 11, 5 p.m. Port City Boxing & Fitness S. 13th St.
Other Location
411 N. 5th Ave., Apt B Open to the public
Opening with video projection, four poems, delivered in a capella fashion, introduces “VISITATIONS” time/space migrations with kinfolk in Detroit, Philadelphia, Alabama, and along the pathways of the Great Migration and Planet Deep South. Participants should meet at 4:30 p.m. at Jengo’s to walk together. Open to the public.
Happy Birthday Peg
Thurs., Nov. 9, 11 p.m. Jengo’s Backyard 815 Princess St.
An interactive film installation featuring a collection of working vintage vibrators designed for female pleasure and continuous small-group screenings of a short film, of a woman who penetrates her husband with a strap-on for her birthday. Come to the green van in the yard of Jengo’s Playhouse for an intimate encounter. Passholders get in free.
Sheila Keefe Ortiz and YiFenn Strickland form an unlikely alliance ‘Time & Place’
T
BY: JAMES MCCREA
he scene is uncharacteristically perilous for an art gallery. Construction workers pour in and out, and the lights flicker and fade as renovations go on in New Elements Gallery’s new location on Front Street. Adding to the chaos is YiFenn Strickland in the act of showing myriad ways her ceramic vases can be displayed. In one configuration, they stand as two glazed vases ready to hold freshly cut flowers. Then she spins each vase around and places one atop the other, carefully aligning the edges of each piece to look seamless. Suddenly it’s no longer two vases—but a solid clay sculpture. She quickly rearranges them, showing an entirely different configuration. The ceramic pieces are stable considering their fragile appearance. If anyone other than Strickland were handling the ceramics like this, they would be promptly escorted from the gallery. “Knowing they’re not attached makes me nervous,” chimes in Sheila Keefe Ortiz, whose paintings align the walls. Intensely colorful expanses of flowers, still-lifes, and various outdoor scenes provide one calming element in this abnormally hectic situation. The pairing of Ortiz’s painted serenity and Strickland’s erratic sculptures marks “Time & Place” at New Elements Gallery. While the two artists seem as though they have little common ground, they both deal with memories and their surroundings in their work. After achieving her master’s degree in design, Ortiz spent most of her life in Corning, New York, as a middle-school teacher specializing in art education and Spanish. However, she never fully abandoned her studio-art roots. When she wasn’t busy in her classroom, she was painting in her home studio. Having recently retired from teaching, she finds herself newly transplanted in Wilmington. The change of scenery had a profound impact on her work, which inspired her to organize the show.
“I was open to the experience of living here,” she explains. “I moved here about three years ago, and my work has been really affected by my surroundings. I thought, What meaning do I find here in Wilmington? What do people find meaningful here for them? It’s about how a place affects you. You hear what people love about Wilmington—they love magnolias, they love Azalea Fest. Those are there roots. That’s what they connect with. So, I was connecting with things I thought made Wilmington special.” Her still-life paintings range from controlled to gestural. In her larger paintings, flowers are
16 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
formed from measured fields of color, while in her smaller ones, colorful floral shapes emerge from starkly scattered charcoal lines. Regardless of technique, her brushwork demonstrations a confident hand. “Line is similar in all the pieces,” Ortiz explains. “I want to let myself identify with the essence of the subject, and show the line and the process of creating it. I don’t like to lose immediacy in the work. Part of why I leave those lines in it is because I wanted to show something of the drawing that’s underneath the painting.” However, her paintings aren’t about flowers and color. Memories guide her work, infusing still lifes with a sense of familiarity. Ortiz recalls childhood memories of playgrounds in vivid brushstrokes evoking the frenetic energy of youth. She captures the gloom of drenched fallen leaves scattered across the streets after last year’s Hurricane Matthew. “Since we call this show ‘Time & Place,’ in the back of my mind, I was expressing memories,” Ortiz recalls. “Some pieces have my mother’s things in them. One piece represents my three sons as three vases. They have a lot of symbolism in them. It’s me trying to find meaning in Wilmington.” Strickland comes from an entirely different background than Ortiz. After moving to the United States from Laos, she spent over a decade as a software engineer before entering the art world. Lacking formal art training, she dabbled in painting as a hobby before finding her niche in ceramics. She credits Hiroshi Sueyoshi at Cameron Art Museum’s Pancoe Art Education Center for introducing her to the wonders of clay. “I studied with Hiroshi for about three and a half years, and that’s when he retired,” she reminisces. “After that, I’ve been doing my own thing. I fell in love with clay and can’t seem to stop!” Strickland’s ceramic surfaces draw heavily from her surroundings, with rich earthy tones contrasting with serene oceanic blues. The textures of her clay range from crumbling earth to slick liquescence. Some of her nesting plates resemble crashing waves, while some seem to unfold like rose petals. Her vases are at once static and fluid, evoking abstracted figures caught mid-dance. “I am not someone who creates the same thing over and over,” Strickland asserts. “I respond to things happening around me. You see a lot of blue, a lot of water, because I live near the ocean at Kure Beach. So, I’m just responding to my surroundings. I love human figures as
well. Some of these more gestural things, you can see maybe a body, a turn of a dancer, or waves.” Other pieces have a distinctly architectural feel to them. Strickland evokes her engineering experience in merging functionality with decoration in her ceramics, often requiring a careful balancing act to display them. One such set consists of two heavily-textured rectangular vases that can be stacked atop one another. The end result is an impossibly top-heavy sculpture vaguely resembling a twisting building that miraculously maintains its stability. “This is my preferred arrangement,” Strickland observes. “I want you to feel the tension. Sometimes in life you feel that things can throw you off balance, and somehow you still try to keep your balance. I like the sense of danger and imbalance, even metaphorically.” Both artists were surprised to find so much common ground despite their seemingly different approaches. Both embrace imperfection, evidenced by Ortiz’ underdrawings showing through finished paintings and Strickland’s organic clay shapes. Most importantly, both women share a sense of dedication to the galleries that host them. Although they both participate in benefit shows for organizations like Empty Bowls and the Carolina Clay Guild, they plan to stick with New Elements Gallery for future showings. “I’m not one to do a lot of local shows because I don’t like to take my work from here to there,” Ortiz comments. “It’s not for me. I’m a gallery artist. My work is kind of spiritual. I don’t want to cart it all around. I feel I give it more respect by having it in a gallery and taken care by someone else.” Strickland agrees, but also maintains that her work is less about sales than it is about communicating and enhancing her creative abilities. “If people respond to my work, that’s great,” says Strickland. “But to me it’s never a meansto-an-end. It’s more about exploration. If I come up with an end-product that surprises me sometimes, I wouldn’t mind hanging onto it.”
DETAILS:
Time & Place by Sheila Keefe Ortiz and YiFenn Strickland New Elements Gallery 217 N. Front Street On display until November 11 www.newelementsgallery.com
WHAT’S 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 The public is invited to a one man show “Escape into Plein Air” featuring 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. On Saturday November 10, we will host an Open House from 11 am-4 pm. Join us and see artists working, as well as a live model. The public is invited to paint or draw from the model. Just bring your own supplies or visit our art supply store. This is our kick-off to the holiday season and there will be fun and refreshments.
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, in partnership with Unlocking Silent Histories, presents an interactive art exhibit Nov. 1-19. Experience cultural films created by Indigenous youth from Maya Guatemala and the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. View films plus visual art and textiles from these vibrant communities. Special reception: Nov. 12, 2-4 p.m. Closing reception: Nov. 19, 2-4 p.m. Join us for a special artist showcase and studio sale by ceramic artist, Traudi Thornton. Traudi’s handmade, one of a kind ceramic work will grace the gallery with a special sale on Saturday, Nov. 25th. Traudi will be in the gallery from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Guests will enjoy refreshments and get a start on holiday gift shopping.
ART OF FINE DINING
www.aibgallery.com In addition to our gallery at 210 Princess Street, Art in Bloom Gallery partners with local restaurants and CHECKER CAB productions to exhibit original art in other locations. The following exhibits continue through December 2017. “Contemporary Art by Stephanie Mobbs Deady” with mixed media at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street. “Southern Embrace: New Art by Debra Bucci” with oil paintings at The District Kitchen and Cocktails,1001 N. 4th Street. “Empty Faces and Abstract Spaces by Joan McLoughlin” with paintings at Pinpoint Restaurant,114 Market 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. Cureent 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.
EXPO 216
216 N. Front St, Wilmington, NC (910) 769-3899 Wed. – Sun., Noon – 6 PM www.expo216.com Two floors of thought-provoking art and fashions in historic downtown! Expositions are theme-driven, currently addressing Death & Dying . A 3D blown glass installation Contemplating Transcendence by Niki Hildebrand, a 9 by 18 foot mural, Spectrum of Spirits, by Joan McLoughlin, and three skull-centered pieces by Elizabeth Darrow will intrigue you. Fashions such as Flatliner (made of medical tubing) and The Cyclist’s Widow (entirely of recycled bicycle parts) will stun you.
RIVER TO SEA GALLERY
225 S. Water St., Chandler’s Wharf (free parking) (910) 763-3380 Tues.- Sat. 11am - 5pm; Sun. 1- 4pm River to Sea Gallery showcases the work of husband and wife Tim and Rebecca Duffy Bush. In addition, the gallery represents several local artists. Current show will enthrall visitors with its eclectic collection of original paintings, photography, sculpture, glass, pottery and jewelry. “Morning Has Broken” features works by Janet Parker. Come see Janet’s bold use of color and texture to reveal local marsh creeks and structures.
SUNSET RIVER MARKETPLACE
10283 Beach Dr., SW (NC 179) (910) 575-5999 Mon.- Sat. 10am - 5pm www.sunsetrivermarketplace.com Sunset River Marketplace showcases work by approximately 150 North and South Carolina artists, and houses some 10,000 square feet of oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, mixed media, art glass, fabric art, pottery, sculpture,
turned and carved wood and artisan-created jewelry. There are two onsite kilns and four wheels used by students in the ongoing pottery classes offered by the gallery. A custom framing department is available. There are realistic and abstract art classes as well as workshops by nationally and regionally known artists.
WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY
200 Hanover St. (bottom level, parking deck) Mon.-Fri., noon-5pm http://cfcc.edu/danielsgallery Through Nov. 10, the Cape Fear Community College Wilma Daniels Gallery will feature artwork by CFCC faculty. The exhibit will include original artwork by Ben Billingsley, Geoff Calabrese, Kevin Dunn, Jessica Gaffney, Brandon Guthrie, Donna Hardee, Jack Landry, Gabriel Lovejoy, Jennifer Mace, Melissa Manley, Kendall Martin, Deborah Onate, Victoria Paige, Abigail Perry, Kimberly Prenda, Deborah Quinn, Kirah Van Sickle, Travis Weller, Sherrie Whitehead, and Lauren Scharling.
NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY
271 N. Front St. (919) 343-8997 Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) www.newelementsgallery.com “Time & Place” features ceramic work from YiFenn Strickland and mixed media paintings by Shelia Keefe Ortiz. Both of these Wilmington artists masterfully create striking work from soft, organic forms. Will remain on view until November 11. New Elements has been offering the best of regional and national fine art and craft since 1985. We invite you to learn more about the artists we represent, featured exhibitions, and gallery news. We regularly update the work available online, so return often to view our many different selections if you can’t drop into the gallery.
PEACOCK FINE ART
224 S. Water St. #1A • (910) 254-4536 Monday through Sunday, noon - 6 p.m. www.peacocksfineart.com. Adjacent to the River to Sea gallery, Features paintings by Wilmington based plein air painter Jim Bettendorf. Local scenes of Wilmington and surrounding areas cover the walls. Original oil paintings and a selection of giclée prints available for purchase. Open daily from noon to six.
nominate | honor | recognize
an outstanding woman today!
Nomination Deadline: Monday, November 20th
AWARD CATEGORIES:
Join us on our new date! thursday, march 8th, 2018 international women’s day
Arts Business Education Environmental Health & Wellness Public Service Rachel Freeman Unsung Hero Social Justice Volunteer Young Leader
To submit online or to learn more about the event, visit:
ywca-lowercapefear.org/woa
Lower Cape Fear
2815 S. College Road P: 910-799-6820
Wilmington, NC 28412 F: 910-799-5681
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 17
ARTS>>THEATRE
‘BRINNER’ IS SERVED:
TheatreNOW’s reprises ‘We Can Be Heroes’ for Cucalorus 23
BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER
T
heatreNOW, Wilmington’s premier dinner theatre, is bringing back Hank Toler’s “We Can Be Heroes” along with “brinner”—or breakfast for dinner. “We Can Be Heroes” ran a couple of years ago and is being resurrected as part of the Stage block launched at the 23rd annual Cucalorus Festival. Captain Spartan (Jake Huber) is the wealthy heir to a superhero legacy. In his mansion, the Champions of Justice meet and pool their powers to protect our fair city. We meet Bear Man (Zeb Mims), a not-so bright but very sweet and cuddly hero with the strength of 10 grizzlies, maybe; The Asker (Tony Choufani), who owes a lot to The Riddler; and, last but not least, the bluecollar working hero, Jack Hammer (Blake Howard). The four are not the most capable or brilliant, or even reality-oriented, but they
do take friendship very seriously. After a series of disastrous losses of team members— one turned into a cat, another killed when she flew into powerlines—they are searching for another team member to fill out the roster. Enter: Lady Luck (Holly Cole Brown). These guys just don’t stand a chance: She’s pretty, smart and clearly in awe of them all. Mims’ Bear Man, especially, makes a sweet blundering fool of himself over her—much to Hammer’s disgust. Or is it jealousy? Howard has the angry, New Jersey guy down cold, but to his credit, he manages not to make it a one-note joke. Choufani’s Asker is an “asker” of questions. He is the brains behind the operation, albeit paranoid, not-entirelysane brains. All joking aside, he really does listen—and he really does think, and it is fascinating to watch him maneuver the others to do what they need to. The alleged leader of the group is Captain Spartan. Jake Huber plays this absurd character with so much seriousness and de-
24 BEERS ON DRAFT & OVER 100 BOTTLED 20 TVS WITH ALL MAJOR SPORTS PACKAGES PROUDLY FEATURING BOAR’S HEAD MEATS
Full menu until 2 a.m., 7 days a week Locally owned and operated • Call for carry-out
termination it causes giggles every time he walks onstage. Together the group believes they keep our city safe from terrible villains. Of course, they are all overgrown children who would fall apart were it not for the ministration of Kingsley (Craig Kittner), Spartan’s butler. He is supposed to be an allusion to Bruce Wayne’s Alfred, but Spartan treats him abominably and it is almost cringingly embarrassing every time Kingsley walks onstage to witness Spartan’s behavior. Kittner’s Kingsley is not cringing or servile by any stretch. He radiates contempt from the first moment we see him. Just when it looks like the Champions are consumed by fighting about the new team member, Baron Von Bedlam (Jamey Stone)—arch enemy of the Champions of Justice—sends a video transmission detailing his latest nefarious plans. Sporting an absurd Bond-villain Russian accent, Stone’s Barron is equal parts insulting and intimidating. Or so we think, until he has equipment failure and his wife (Holli Saperstein) has to try to help him turn the camera off. What ensues is a bickering old married couple who do love each other, but, well, let’s just say neither is exactly over-awed by the other. Saperstein and Stone completely steal the show. Considering how funny Toler’s script and performances are, it is really saying something. Here is the thing: Toler’s script is very witty and absurd—in the best traditions of Adam West’s “Batman” crossed with “Saturday Night Live.” But its core message about friendship and how we treat each other doesn’t get lost in the jokes. Bear Man might not be too bright, but he is loyal and forgiving. There is a lot to be said for that in this day and age. Just like the heroes eat a breakfast of champions three meals a day, Chef Denise Gordon has devised a three-course brinner that is out of this world. The excitement begins with a sun-dried tomato and rosemary quiche—savory and scrumptious—but it can’t compare with the spinach artichoke muffins. The problem with the muffins is they taste so yummy, and are made with vegeta-
! s l a de .com
5046 New Centre Drive | Wilmington, NC 28403
(910) 859-7374
18 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
bles, so it is easy to be convinced they’re a healthy snack. If left alone with a tray of them, I could not be held responsible for my actions. When the main course arrived, it looked like Thanksgiving had come to our table of four. We had a small person with us, and I am ashamed to say, I did not model good table manners. I dug in like a “Sesame Street” monster—but it was all so good! The veggie lasagna frittata managed to blend all the elements of lasagna and quiche to make something that would satiate the pickiest foodie. Artichokes, mushrooms, cheese, eggs, tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese equals layers of creamy goodness. Gordon has a “Hero Slaw” on the side that is tangier than the average cole slaw. Think less mayonnaise and more Eastern flair. It’s pretty great. But the junk-food lover in me swooned at crispy-onion-and cheese-covered tater tots. It’s like the best elements of Waffle House, cheese fries and childhood all melded together. If I was dining alone, I would have liked the dish. Seriously. But the pièce de résistance is the ramen bowl. It is not like the Oodles of Noodles from Food Lion, either. Oh no. Gordon has wonderful, long twirly noodles, carrots, bean sprouts, and sautéed mushrooms in an amazing broth, all topped with a poached egg. It’s like heaven in bowl, and where to begin? Not too salty. Not too brothy, but just wonderful. Maybe that’s the word for the whole evening: wonderful. The script is funny. The performances are fun. The food is great. The whole building is filled with reminders everywhere that there is good and kindness in the world. Sometimes we just have to laugh at ourselves in order to see what has been staring us in the face the whole time. One of my dinner companions was about 6; though it isn’t a “children’s show,” per se, he got a lot of the humor, and there are no overtly “adult” situations. In addition, he really loved the whipped cream that came with dessert.
DETAILS:
Dinner Show: We Can Be Heroes
Nov. 9-11, 7 p.m.; Seating begins one hour prior TheatreNOW • 19 S. 10th St. Tickets: $15-$38 www.theatrewilmington.com
ARTS>>THEATRE
TRUTH-TELLING YOUTH:
‘The Diary Play’ makes public debut from UNCW grad Trey Morehouse
I
BY: SHEA CARVER
n 2014 Trey Morehouse founded Mouths of Babes (MoB), a young-adult theatre company in Raleigh, NC, focused on creating engaging, interactive and innovative theatre for high-school and college students. A graduate of UNCW, Morehouse devised a telling docu-play, “The Diary Play,” which focuses on young people and their daily diary entries on life. “The play illustrates our style and mission better than another play might,” Morehouse says. “It’s an experimental concept, and concerns issues relevant to teens and young adults in the voice of teens and young adults.” Morehouse moved his theatre company to Wilmington, which is now a collaborative effort with UNCW’s theatre department, many of whom, including Dr. Charles Grimes, serve on MoB’s board. As well, ties to UNCW allows the theatre company to directly involve college students in various capacities with the high schoolers for every performance. “I’ve always remembered Wilmington being a community welcoming of community engagement and innovation, and I don’t think that’s changed,” Morehouse says. “A large part of our mission is creating mentorship opportunities . . . finding ways to engage young professionals and giving them experience and leadership positions as they prepare to apply for competitive jobs and grad school.” Winner of Wilmington Arts Council’s Grassroots Grant, Mouths of Babe will debut locally and publicly with Morehouse’s “The Diary Play,” as part of Cucalorus Stage. Though the show’s content may be centered on youth, it’s not without heavyhitting merit. In fact, Morehouse’s original text has grown into deeper meaning over the two years since he completed it. “The meaning and ‘why’ of the play has changed and become more specific for me since then,” he tells. “We’re in the era of ‘locker room talk’ vs. the ‘#metoo’ movement. Women’s issues are more present and talked about now more than they’ve been in at least the last 20 years or so in our culture. By placing the voices of four young women onstage, we are saying these are important voices worth listening to, now more than ever.”
to attract donors,” Morehouse expands. “I was interested in creating a company where working and engaging with teens and young adults was ‘the thing.’ I wanted something actively sought to create ageappropriate roles for teen actors. You’re only a teen once, so playing a teenager at that age is a priceless experience.”
The play grapples with questions that continue to plague our culture over again. It asks the value of self-worth, the foundation of finding self-esteem, how to devise healthy relationships, and how to heal and grow. “One of the four young diary writers in the play is a survivor of sexual assault,” Morehouse explains. “It corresponds with the statistic that one in four college women report surviving sexual assault at some point in their lives. That’s what a culture of ‘locker room talk’ looks like and it’s worth talking about.” Morehouse decided upon the genre of documentary theatre from his love of doc filmmaking and the use of experimental aesthetics. The performers, for instance, are reading diaries verbatim, without embellishments. Audiences are informed from the root and heart of their words, which also paint the picture of their background—whether it’s Elizabeth experiencing first love, Galina dreaming of a better life in America, away from her hometown of Turkmenistan, Pam’s thoughts on a Peter Frampton concert, or Susanne, a struggling actor and Christian. After giving a lot of thought to documents and representations of teens, the diary seemed a natural place to begin the story. “I never faithfully kept a diary myself,” Morehouse admits, “but I was always fascinated by people who did. I remember really marveling at the special mind it takes to faithfully write the events of your life every day.” Instead, Morehouse asked four of his friends to send him their diaries. Dr. Grimes reached out to the mother of one of his former students for a diary, too, in order to hone in on “moments [that] make us become who we turn out to be.” “The play also asserts that every moment of one’s experience is somehow worthwhile,” Dr. Grimes continues, “even if we look back at a previous period of our lives and wonder why we did what we did or worried about what we worried about . . . we wanted to remind everyone that young people are truth-tellers. Their experience is valuable and meaningful.”
MYSTERIES OF YOUTH: High-schoolers and college-aged students bring to life four diary entries in the original piece, “The Diary Play,” by Trey Morehouse of Mouth of Babes theatre company. Courtesy photo
The production is minimalistic. Actors and words carry the weight. It’s something Morehouse says ties in wonderfully with the “fringe” festival element of Cucalorus. “It also fits with our mission to engage young people with their arts community,” Morehouse tells. “Cucalorus [is] an evergrowing embodiment of Wilmington’s arts community and spirit. The play is still in development in many ways as I hope to continue editing and find new diaries. I also hope to possibly send it to other festivals, so sending it to a local festival is a great tryout.” Derived from the Bible verse, Mouths of Babes can be interpreted as wisdom or truth from young people. Morehouse says it’s important to hear the young voices spoken in society but more importantly really listen to their messages. He wants MoB to engage the world and add to it in all forms. “Lately, I’ve taken to calling ourselves ‘mob,’” he admits. “I just sort of like how it sounds, and it gives a sort of unruly feeling.” More over, Morehouse is onto something new, as teen and youth theatre isn’t as prominent on a national scale. Though, locally, Wilmington is very much ahead of the curve with Thalian Association Children’s Theatre and Second Star, geared town teens and young adults.
In five years, Morehouse hopes for MoB to be an incubator of sorts, where young adults are trying their hand at new works—writing, directing, acting, set-designing, the whole shebang. He foresees a “summer festival” format to allow for more outreach work within the school year. “I would love to see our company gather every summer to create new works (documentary plays, devised plays, plays adapted from novels and classic stories, and whatever else we think of), and then share these plays with the community,” he tells. “I think we’re committed to doing groupcreated work and more experimental fare,” Dr. Grimes adds. “We’re giving young people leadership artistic positions. For instance, our next piece is called ‘Out Carolina,’ and it will dramatize the coming-out (or disclosing) stories of local folks identifying as LGBTQI. We have our young artists out collecting stories right now and Mickey Johnson, a recent grad of UNCW theatre, will direct and lead the group in devising the piece. She is also going to teach the group about movement and gender.” First up will be “The Diary Play,” with a special showing for Ashley High School and Virgo Middle School students. Yet, the public viewing will be at North Front Theatre on Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. and Nov. 10 at 2 p.m.
DETAILS:
The Diary Play
Nov. 9, 5 p.m. and Nov. 10, 2 p.m. North Front Theatre 21 N. Front St. #501 “Often theatre for teens and young adults Tickets: $10 are done as an afterthought, or in support of the main season or even as a point on cucalorus.org a checklist of things a company has to do
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 19
STAGE LIFE
ARTS>>THEATRE
GATHER ‘ROUND:
cuc theatre Americana Psychobabble
Fri., Nov. 10, 5 p.m. Sat., Nov. 11, 4:45 p.m. North Front Theatre 21 N. Front St., #501 Tickets: $10
A delirious anti-narrative of American emptiness, violence, and nonsense—part exorcism and part enema! With styrofoam wings, Xmas lights, and ketchup.
13 Award-Winning* Scenes About Mediocrity Sun., Nov. 12, 4:15 p.m. North Front Theatre 21 N. Front St., #501 Tickets: $10
Pineapple-Shaped Lamps is proud to present “13 Award-Winning* Scenes About Mediocrity (*Participation Trophies Count),” an original comedy show for Cucalorus Stage. Follow a series of seemingly unconnected vignettes concerning the somewhat interesting lives of small town residents and the kooky characters that disrupt their days. Watch as minor characters in one scene transform into major players in the next and key McGuffins return later as trivial background objects. Parody, satire, surrealism—this show has it all! So come enjoy the best damn comedy Wilmington has to offer!
Labels
Sat., Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m. Sat., Nov. 12, 1 p.m. North Front Theatre 21 N. Front St., #501 Tickets: $10
Labels will follow the story of mixed heritage and immigration, while using comedy at its base. 60 minutes, direted by Joe SellmanLeava.
Cory Howard returns to Cucalorus with his ‘Campfireball’ live show “I’m doing about 12 shows on tour, and couldn’t fathom creating an entirely new show each time,” he explains. “So the way it works now are three possible ‘Campfireball’ experiences: the mind show, the heart show and the body show. The audience chooses which journey we’re going to take. Within the framework of that particular show, the audience’s reactions and contributions are always unique, and help to steer the event in a direction that is fully owned by only us that night.”
BY: SHANNON RAE GENTRY
W
hile watching films isn’t typically an interactive sport, the governing body of Cucalorians continuously seek to remedy that each year with the addition of more dance, theatre, storytelling, and engaging live performances. Enter: “Campefireball.” Self-described as “sandcastles by nature,” “Campfireball” live is a unique interactive theatrical experience that combines storytelling, comedy, film, music, dance, lecture, poetry, and anything in between. As “Campfireball” host Cory Howard’s role in all of this is part ringmaster, part guide, and part “foil.” “I recently described my participation in ‘Campfireball’ to a friend as being like Andy Kaufman,” he tells. “But instead of throwing the audience under the bus, I throw myself under the bus. Aside from that, ‘Campfireball’ is a little tricky to adequately describe unless you’ve seen it.” In a nutshell, since its inception in 2011, every experience/show has been different because of varying guest artists, themes and audiences. And everyone who comes out to “Campfireball,” as part of 2017’s Cucalorus Festival on November 9, is taking a chance on its unpredictability. However, Howard’s job is to make sure to reward that chance and make sure everyone’s “in on the joke” in an inclusive environment. Cuc-fanatics may remember Howard from Cucalorus 13 with Superkiiiiids! Part comedy routine, part performance art, part “wackfest,” Howard partnered with actor/artistic director Jonathan Guggenheim (who has his own short, “Pilgrims,” adapted from local author Brad Land’s famed novel, “Goat,” showing in the Mickey Moles Shorts: Love & Romance block on Sun., Nov. 12, 10:15 a.m.). “I am really, really excited and honored to be bringing the show to Wilmington and Cucalorus—two entities that have been enormously important in my growth and development as a human being,” Howard tells. “I haven’t performed in town since the time when Jonathan Guggenheim and I were ping-ponging around with The Superkiiiiiiids! And I am so thirsty to put some work in front of everyone again as a 35-year-old. It’s really funny and weirdly profound for me to look at ‘Campfireball’ and notice the ways I still tap into that
20 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Superkiiiiid!-DNA and the other ways I’ve pushed myself into a space of real-life emotional stakes.” Howard’s been based in Los Angeles, where he started the series. He has hosted shows revolving around themes from Mars Rovers to birthdays. “One show was set inside a giant inflatable bubble,” he continues, “and all of the performers and acts correspond with that experience, which happens only once and then disappears into the primordial ooze.” Howard’s dream is for “Campfireball” to be an umbrella for a specfiic style of storytelling that includes his live show, an immersive social-media presence he calls “micro-storytelling,” as well as a television show ... sort of. “I’m using the word ‘television show’ liberally,” he clarifies. “What it really is: Something I am going to film in a garage and put online—but, hey, dress for the job you want. Before I left for the tour I’m currently on, I wrote a talk show I describe as (sort of) an unironic ‘Mr. Rogers’ for adults. The way it works is, each season has a grand over-arching existential problem we explore, and every episode in that season has its own capsule or niche that, while standing on its own, also works to push forward the larger idea of the season. The goal was to film it before I left, but, ya know, failure is cool sometimes, too. Gonna pick it up where it left off when I get back to Los Angeles in the winter.” In order to take his live show on the road, Howard had to create something that could be spontaneous and unpredictable. It also needed to be repeated and replicated.
Though, fun isn’t forced upon anyone, there are plenty of unique participation opportunities throughout the course of the event. Folks can engage on their terms, within their comfort zones. “I never want the audience to feel like they have to do me a favor by participating,’” Howard says. “Without giving too much away about the Cucalorus show— depending on which out of the three possibilities is chosen—there are handheld, physical relics to interact with and take away from the event; there’s some moments that reach outside of the ‘Campfireball’ space; there’s something that is begun at the show and completed a week later; there’s opportunities to connect with important people in my life; and we all may or may not form a band at one point.” Wilmington comic and WWAY contributor Wills Maxwell is secured as one of Howard’s guest entertainers for the Cucalorus “Campfireball.” However, there is still a lot coming together. “I’m having several conversations with an awesome array of contributors,” he adds. “Come out everybody! Let’s dance!”
DETAILS:
Campfireball
Thurs., Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m. Jengo’s Backyard 815 Princess St. Open to pass-holders allowed in Jengo’s backyard cucalorus.org
ARTS>>THEATRE
SETTING THE TABLE:
‘The Dining Room’ revolves around multiple storylines and characters BY: GWENYFAR ROHLER
A
.R. Gurney’s “The Dining Room,” directed by Tesia Childs at Cape Fear Playhouse from Big Dawg Productions, is a wonderfully charming look at family life that hits the spot just before Thanksgiving. Gurney is probably best known to Wilmington audiences as the author of “Love Letters,” the twoperson epistolary play about the life-long friendship and star-crossed love of two patrician New Englanders. In “The Dining Room,” six performers, Emily Gomez, Jay Zadeh, Josh Bailey, Beth Corvino, Randy Davis, and Vanessa Welch, bring to life about 18 vignettes set in and around the dining rooms of WASPs in the 20th century. There is not one overarching story arc, so much as over-arching themes: the importance of making family central to life, even in the twilight of a vanishing world. Storylines span the 1930s to early 1980s, and include expected family scenes but also attempt to deconstruct the dining room, literally; like when a psychiatrist (Josh Bailey) listens to an architect (Randy Davis) make an argument to cut the dining room up into a patient waiting room and office space for Bailey. Or Vanessa Welch unexpectedly instigates a family war over using the dining room as her office to type her grad-school term paper. Her husband (Bailey) feels it should be a sacred space dedicated to family life. While Welch’s character, a newly emancipated woman, wants to get a grad degree and work outside the home—away from their children—the turf war is about much more than just the location of dinner, but about what all of it means for their family life and future. One of the more interesting choices the performers and Childs bring to life is the older scenes have more of a satirical feel, whereas scenes set later in the 20th century are more subtle. For example, in the 1930s when Jay Zedeh is joined for breakfast by his two children, Welch and Davis, the ensuing series of corrections to their grammar, manners and attitude about the world is almost satirical—including a lecture about how time spent at the dining-room table with his family is more important than being on time for school. (Especially when the teacher is talking about the government stepping in during
The Depression, which would, of course, lead to a closing of private schools.) Zadeh does an admirable job as an overbearing father trying to find patience for the children who really should be seen and not heard. One can’t help but notice, though he corrects his son’s behavior—”I know people who stand when a beautiful woman enters the room”—he does not himself stand or offer to help his wife with her chair. He can give orders, but he can’t seem to model behavior of a gentleman. Davis is worn out with trying to make his father happy and it’s easy to see the wheels turning in his head during the lecture. It is an interesting contrast to another almost satirical dining-room crisis when Beth Corvino can’t seem to decide if dinner is going to be served or not. Her husband just got a phone call right when they were getting ready to sit down. The children are at the table, the lamb is ready. But can she give the order for dinner to commence? It only gets worse when Davis enters and reveals the phone call is about someone saying something terribly improper to his younger brother at the club. Now he must go down to the club and challenge the persecutor of his little brother to a fight! It is a matter of family honor!
Who do I want to be? The personal quest plays out subtly, but beautifully and without being too obvious to be a parody of adolescence. She also gets the big final monologue of the evening and delivers it with enough self-absorption and self-delusion to capture the noblesse oblige of the vanishing age that Gurney memorializes. She perfectly sets the mood for nostalgia that one wants to walk out the door wrapped in after this show. Scott Davis’ set is remarkably versatile for spanning a half-century. The China hutch at the back wall, flanked by gold-leaf sconces, complement the simple chandelier above the table. In the 1950s, it is tasteful but expensive. In the late ‘70s, when Jay Zadeh is an aging family patriarch, watching his grandchildren spend his money and flee the nest, it is faded former glory in a lonely man’s house. “The Dining Room” looks simple but
actually has a lot of moving parts and subtlety. Childs has done a wonderful job assembling a very skilled group of actors who make multiple families with all their gloss and warts alike come alive. They remind the audience why time at the table together is important, without getting lost in the land of Hallmark. It is entertaining, witty, fun, and thought-provoking, with great writing, superb acting and thoughtful direction.
DETAILS:
The Dining Room
Nov. 9-12, 16-19, 8 p.m., or 3 p.m. only on Sun. Cape Fear Playhouse 613 Castle St. Tickets: $15-$20
Davis and Corvino hit the farcical nature of the scenario perfectly by playing with total commitment the seriousness of the situation and allegation. They also get the scene that really explores the twilight of a vanishing era. Corvino plays Great Aunt Harriot, who is demonstrating for her nephew, home from Amherst, all the niceties and intricacies of the carefully inherited napkins, placemats, pistol-handled knives, and crystal-finger bowls, etc. She is so clearly enamored of the memories and lovely daintiness of all she describes while Davis snaps pictures of her and the family heirlooms, it makes her dismay on learning Davis is putting together an anthropology project about her all the more painful. Emily Gomez has one of my favorite roles in the show as the young woman presented by her mother (Corvino) with a “choice” about how to spend an evening: at the youth dance or with her inappropriate and eccentric aunt at a play. There is the surface-level mother-daughter struggle occurring between the two, but Gomez’s face tracks the shifting sands of self discovery: Who am I? Why don’t I like the things I am expected to like? What do I really want? encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 21
ARTS>>FILM
BEYOND THE REEL:
Anghus reviews a broad bunch of films showing at Cucalorus 23 BY: ANGHUS
struggles with the constant conundrum that is the opposite sex.
alling Cucalorus a “film festival” no longer feels apt. Now in its 23rd year of bringing groundbreaking creativity to Wilmington, the festival is expanding beyond the reel. Though dance has been a part of its opening-night festivities with Dance-a-lorus (Wed., Nov. 8, 7 p.m., Thalian Hall), which marries film and movement, over the years we have seen it expand even more, as it has introduced CONNECT, a conference of technology and entrepreneurship. For 2017, we also will see stage performances evolve, with standup, plays, readings, and experimental theatre taking over one of many venues across town.
Bernard has made a life for himself in New York City in publishing (historical fiction) and manages to pick up the occasional woman thanks to his mental prowess and a spoonful of charm. It hasn’t always been easy for Bernard. His marriage lasted all of six weeks. Even before he was obsessed with women only able to get involved with women by befriending local lotharios like Huey (David Koechner). In their prime, Huey was sleeping his way through the five boroughs while Bernard was scoring with his castaways. It was a symbiotic relationship, like one of those remoras that attaches itself to a shark for stainability.
C
Certainly film is a major part of Cucalorus, still, and this year over 300 flicks will be shown, ranging from features to shorts, docs to dramas, comedies to horror, and more. Film fans, artists, industry professionals, musicians, and an oddball collection of entertaining eccentrics are collectively heading to the Port City for five days, Nov. 8-12, to celebrate art and the artists responsible for its creation. Check out the full schedule in encore’s center spread, or download encoreGO and have the schedule at your fingertips. But, first, check out a few movie reviews through page 27. Everything Beautiful is Far Away Fri., Nov. 10, 7 p.m. Thalian Ballroom Tickets: $15 There are so many reasons to love independent cinema—and I’m talking about real independent cinema, not the bullshit $50 million “independent” movies from human garbage like Harvey Weinstein. You know? The ones that have A-list actors working for scale to try and win an Oscar. I’m talking about real indie films—labors of love crafted with little to no money by artists desperate to get their vision out into the world. Usually, they’re movies that force interesting, creative choices to showcase a world instead of throwing money at a warehouse full of computer programmers to build a world in a virtual space. “Everything Beautiful is Far Away” is a product of love—a movie that quietly, carefully and methodically leads us into a beautiful story about loneliness, desperation and hope. Lernert (Joseph Cross) is wandering a barren desert with the a disembodied robot head named Susan. His life is simple and metered in a way that he finds peaceful. Life isn’t easy in his dystopian landscape: Food must be foraged. Water must be searched for with marked regularity. Susan is his only companion, and
THE BRINK OF DEATH: ‘Everything Beautiful is Far Away’ is a product of love set in a dystopian landscape. Courtesy photo
she’s only present when he can find batteries to keep her powered. Lernert comes across another wanderer who has eaten poisoned fruit. He successfully nurses her back from the brink of death. Their paths continue to cross, and eventually Rola (Julia Garner) joins Lernert on his journeys. She’s new to the wandering lifestyle and curious about those who have abandoned city life for a lonely desert existence. Her naïveté and innocence is something Lernert finds both charming and exhausting. Rola has journeyed into the desert to try and discover a lake that most consider a myth. She believes there are still pure places to be found. Rola’s idealism is a stark contrast to Lernert’s pragmatism. There’s a lot to like about “Everything Beautiful is Far Away.” Most of the credit goes to exceptional lead actors who do a great job making the characters both believable and engaging. Joseph Cross brings an awkward charm and vulnerability to Lernert. While the character fits neatly into the “book smart guy not great with feelings” trope, there’s an ease and earnestness that makes him naturally likable. Julia Garner is equally excellent in her portrayal of Rola. She has an ability to simultaneously appear naive and wise beyond her years. For a small film, there’s a lot of scope. The futuristic sci-fi plot is given credence thanks to cinematography that carves beauty out of the bleak landscape. There’s a real sense of being in the middle of nowhere that grips the film and makes Lernert and Rola’s journey feel treacherous. When the two encounter another traveller who has been wandering aimlessly in the vast expanse, the look of madness and detach-
22 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
ment in his eyes is completely believable. It’s a madness that grips all who have ventured too far off the grid and succumbed to loneliness. It is difficult to achieve in any movie. Kudos to directors Peter Ohs and Andrea Sisson who were able to create dystopia on a dime. Even the techniques employed to bring Susan the robot to life has a believable low-fidelity vibe that sells the concept as well as the character. The film lingers a little too long thanks to some issues with pacing. The film is methodologically slow, something that feels intentional—like another way for the filmmakers to transport us to a frustrating world so we experience the maddening stagnation of isolation. It’s extremely effective and manages to achieve lofty cinematic goals with a modicum of resources. It is exactly the kind of film Cucalorus exists to showcase: a strong creative vision successfully brought to the screen by a cast and crew who understand that sometimes less is more. “Everything Beautiful is Far Away” is a well-crafted piece of independent cinema and earns every moment while showcasing some fine talent in front of as well as behind the lens. Bernard and Huey Thurs., Nov. 9, 10 a.m.; Sat., Nov. 11, 7 p.m. Thalian Main Tickets: $15 I always enjoy films that introduce enjoyable characters with whom I like spending spent time. Unique creations present a rarely seen perspective rather than depending on typical stereotypical molds most cinematic characters are crammed into. “Bernard and Huey” is a character study that examines two very different personalities. Bernard (the great Jim Rash) is a typical nebbish New Yorker, molded from the same block of clay that Woody Allen uses for so many protagonists. He’s neurotic, introspective to a fault, and at 49 years old still
It’s been 25 years since they’ve last seen each other. That is until Huey shows up on Bernard’s doorstep drunk, disheveled and in need of a place to crash. Soon enough Huey is sleeping on the floor and taking over Bernard’s life with reckless abandon. To be fair, it’s not like Bernard is doing much with it. and in spite of his protests he seems to have no issue with attaching himself to Huey again. Huey’s life is more complicated and fragmented than Bernard’s, but in equally shabby shape. He has a strained relationship with his daughter Zelda (Mae Whitman) and has never really taken the time to become an adult. He’s still a sex obsessed man-child who has lost his looks and hair—a ladies’ man no longer appealing to the 20-something sex goddesses for whom he pines. Huey channels some of his energy into repairing the relationship with his daughter, by urging Bernard to show some of Zelda’s comics to his peers at the publisher for whom he works. This forces Bernard to spend some time with the abrasive Zelda. The unlikely pair do what unlikely pairs do: bang like crazy in a May-December romance that looks as awkward as it sounds. “Bernard and Huey” is an interesting examination of men at a certain age: depressing midlife where single men struggle with their own sexual mortality. The days of bedding gorgeous young women with ease are over. Relationships with women their own age disintegrate because of their lack of maturity. On paper, Huey has amassed more adult responsibility than Bernard, but his selfishness and immaturity make it impossible for him to appreciate what he has or bring any value to his ex-wife of daughter. While Huey is still searching for an identity and validation through his relationships. He lacks Huey’s ties to the world but probably wouldn’t know how to handle them if he did. This is a very “New York” movie—an introspective character analysis expected from Pu-
litzer Prize and Oscar-winning writer Jules Feiffer. It’s a smart film about dumb men and the choices they make. We get to see the modernday older versions of Bernard and Huey and flash back to their younger selves when they were young and full of combustible sex drives. Jim Rash and David Koechner are great in the title roles. Their friendship is unlikely and somewhat frustrating. Audiences get the feeling that without each other these two might never make another friend. There’s a little Felix/Oscar “Odd Couple” thing going on between the two. It makes sense a writer like Feiffer is able to craft the same kind of characters found in Neil Simon plays and Woody Allen films since the artists were all inspired by the same city and the people populating its five boroughs. “Bernard and Huey” is an engaging and entertaining film poignantly directed by Dan Mirvish and carried by an excellent cast of character actors who make the material pop. Ginger Nation Fri., Nov. 11, 1:15 p.m. CFCC Union Station Tickets: $10 Stand-up specials and one-person shows take a special kind of performer. Commanding an audience for an hour or more straight is one of the hardest gigs in show business. It’s a marathon for any performer—a gauntlet few have truly mastered. There are exceptional artists in this genre, like Spalding Gray, Eric Bogosian and John Leguizamo, all of whom excelled in this creative space. Shawn Hitchins has entered the thunderdome that is personal performance with his challenging piece “Ginger Nation.” Hitchins is a natural ham—a wear-it-all-onhis-sleeve performer who has absolutely no issue spilling the most intimate details of his life in the most graphic way possible. He’s like the guy at the party whose mixed prescriptions pills and hard liquor suddenly unload a brutal, selfeffacing world view on anyone within earshot. As the title implies, this is the story of a ginger: super rare, fair-skinned, strawberry-haired minority often portrayed in a less-than flattering light. He’s also a gold-star gay (I’ll let you figure that one out for yourself) and takes great pride in his genetics and sexual identity. The film allows Hitchins to deep dive into some of the formative experiences of his life and life-changing decisions he made. Much of the crux of “Ginger Nation” revolves around being asked by a lesbian couple to donate sperm for artificial insemination—a process far more complicated than movies and television would have you believe. Hitchins goes hilariously into the minute detail of the process of masturbating into a sterile cup in a hilarious bit that he sells with broad physical comedy in a way that has to be seen to be believed. Shawn Hitchins is fearless in an endearing way. This is the kind of performance that could easily derail through the editing process. “Gin-
ger Nation” is an all-or-nothing experience, and Hitchins is willing to deliver it all. Ever wondered how many ejaculations it would require to fill a liter? Shawn has. All these bombastic moments serve as a nice segway between more personal moments that allow him to stew in melancholy for a few moments before launching into another funny moment. He is very comfortable spinning personal tragedy into comedy and finding absurdity in the mundane. Like all one-person shows your ultimate enjoyment relies on the performer. Hitchins is an infectious presence who is capable of drawing you into his madcap and manic observations. He laughs at his own material a little too much. Sometimes a good line or comment is completely smothered by his cackling laughter to serve as punctuation, which gives the audience almost no opportunity to absorb the moment before making a judgement on its comedic/dramatic merit. “Ginger Nation” is a unique piece, and something that feels remarkably fresh as part of the Cucalorus line-up. Shawn Hitchins is raw, unapologetic and honest. His narrative is interesting, entertaining and unique. While I think the show could benefit from a little more theatrics, it’s still well worth watching. Sometimes it feels like an intimate “evening with” type show, while other moments make it feel like a really long TEDTalk. Take a chance on a solid hour of brutal, hilarious honesty.
CUCALORUS VENUES Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts 310 Chestnut Street / 910-632-2285 CFCC Union Station 502 N. Front Street / 910-362-7488 Jengo’s Playhouse 815 Princess St. / 910-343-5995 Bourgie Nights 127 Princess St. /910-763-5252 Expo 216 216 N. Front St. /910-769-3899 Blind Elephant 21 N. Front St. / 910-833-7175 Down Smith Alley Hell’s Kitchen 118 Princess St. / 910-763-4133 Dead Crow Comedy Room 265 N Front St. / 901-399-1492 TheaterNOW 19 S 10th St. / 910-399-3669 North Front Theater 21 N Front St. #501 / 910-342-0272 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 23
ARTS>>FILM
SHUNNING PC CULTURE:
Cucalorus audiences can’t avoid Trump in Onur Tukel’s ‘The Misogynists’
F
of Iraq, and his ideas have influenced many of the themes of my last few films, ‘Applesauce’ (2015), ‘Catfight’ (2016) and ‘The Misogynists.’ If you look at the United States as a failed country, you can begin to understand how someone like Trump can get elected. He’s the perfect leader for us: arrogant, entitled, loud, obnoxious.”
BY: SHEA CARVER
ilmmaker and Turkish born-and-bred North Carolinian Onur Tukel knows how to keep jokes coming fast and furiously. Anyone on his social media feed will recognize scathing, truthful quips in response to current news headlines, most recently aimed at white supremacists at the Charlottesville riots in August. “I once thought having Muslims banned from America was a form of punishment. Now, it seems like an act of mercy.” “White bread has never had any significant nutritional value.” “State of emergency should have been declared everywhere on January 20, 2017 at approximately 9 AM.” Tukel has never been one to mince words. It’s apparent in his everyday discourse and especially in his catalog of films, which just received a retrospective at the Istanbul Modern Museum in Turkey last month. Yet, Tukel wasn’t allowed to attend the event, as he never applied for shared citizenship. Both nations, the U.S. and Turkey, have banned visitors from their respective countries. “Like Trump, Turkey’s President Recep Erdogan is loved by some and hated by some,” Tukel tells. “Years ago, I would have complained about being shut out of my own retrospective. Now, I have to take responsibility for not having Turkish citizenship; it’s my own fault for not being able to get in.” Instead, Tukel has been traveling the U.S. to represent his latest work, “The Misogynists,” which stars leads Dylan Baker and Jamie Block (encore’s cover models). The film will screen as part of the 23rd Cucalorus Festival, and show Thursday, Nov. 9, 7:15 p.m., at Thalian Hall. It deals with the hyper-critical, paranoid nature of citizens post-election 2016—the night Donald Trump beat out Hillary Clinton as the 45th President of the United States of America. It’s one for the history books, since practically every poll predicted the opposite would happen. More so, the aftershock last year infiltrated Cucalorus 22, which launched the day after Trump’s win. “There was certainly an edge to the general mood last year,” Cucalorus artistic director Dan Brawley confirms. “I’m not sure I can quite explain it—a bit of shock, a sense of needing to come together and celebrate grew out of that. So the festival ended up being a very important moment of solidarity and community for many of us.” “The Misogynists” is a headliner for the 2017
TRUMPSTERS: Dylan Baker and Jamie Block are two men celebrating Trump’s win in Onur Tukel’s comedy, “The Misogynists.” Courtesy photo
festival, but not necessarily to take people down a PTSD-ridden path as much as provide a lens to look at the overall effect and picture it has drawn of U.S. politics and how citizens react to and interact within it. “We sometimes need a story or a myth to help us understand the wild things that happen in the world,” Brawley adds about art inspired by history. “A re-packaging of sorts that helps us adapt our own world-view in relationship to a dynamic and shifting landscape—economically, politically, and culturally. That’s why events like Cucalorus are so important; it is a chance to redefine the way we see the world.” The film takes place in a hotel room with two men celebrating Trump’s win, as one of the fella’s wives has a nervous breakdown at home and begins to succumb to the paranoia of living in a Trump-ruled world. Various characters, including two prostitutes, with myriad political affiliation, soldier in and out of the room to illuminate different values and reactions. At its heart, Tukel hones in on hypocrisy across all sides of the political spectrum and showcases excessiveness that plagues so many—whether in the form of money, power, emotional bankruptcy, dour judgement, safe-space coddling, or apathetic inaction. A self-described political junkie, Tukel calls 2016 the year everyone became involved in politics. Though, his personal fascination began long ago. “I was a political junkie when George W. Bush was in power,” he says. “I read the magazines, I watched the news shows, followed the pundits, had fervent political debates
24 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
The latter appropriately describes Tukel’s heavy-handed dialog in the film. It’s not for the faint of heart—especially for anyone dependent upon safe-spaces or who cries microaggressions. As its title states, “The Misogynists” shuns the idea of political correctness altogether and portrays Trump’s base as tell-itlike-it-is, asshole patriarchs that will continue to keep women in “their places.” However, it also shows left-leaning liberals projecting with the same amount of vitriol and venom. It leaves the with people, mainly conservative North Carolin- audience witness to pretty gross behavior. ians. When Obama got elected, like many libEarly on in the film, Baker’s character asks, erals, I just tuned out and assumed everything “Do you know who gets labeled an asshole in would be OK. In 2016, it was impossible to ig- this life? Those who tell the truth because the nore the election; it enveloped the culture like truth hurts.” It’s a comment the film explores— a toxic cloud. Everyone became political, from and it’s not one-sided. It makes sense for Tukel the pundits to the small-town football coach.” to delve into it, as he’s always worn hard-edged Tukel began the first draft of “The Misogy- truths on his sleeve and wielded them wildly nists” on Nov. 9, 2016 and finished it in a week with a pen, lens and abrasive lip. “I’m an outor so. “I have to write my first drafts quickly; I spoken loudmouth,” he admits. He was even want it to spring from my unconscious, where barred from attending the second Q&A of “The all my dread and fear lie,” he says. “This one Misogynists” in Bend, Oregon, a few weeks was easier to write in many ways because I ago because of his acerbic verbosity. was appropriating broad political talking points. “He’s not afraid to dive deep into the difficult . . . I wanted to make a dialogue-driven picture stuff,” Brawley explains. “And he’s really honest that could appeal to the broadest audience about it—he’s sincerely interested in what peopossible.” ple think and also brave enough to say what no After several script readings with actors one else is willing to say—even when it’s right and friends, nine drafts later he began shoot- on the tip of our tongues.” ing the film and finished it in 10 days. And as an antithesis to the movie’s title, Tukel actually used mostly females in its production. The producer, casting director, set designer, director of photography, camera operator, and costume designer were women. He wrote the roles of Baxter for Jamie Block and Amber and Sasha for Trieste Kelly Dunn and Ivana Milicevic—all of whom starred in the NC-filmed “Banshee.” Ideas from author Morris Berman snuck into Tukel’s script. The filmmaker had read Berman’s trilogy (“The Twilight of American Culture,” “Dark Ages America,” “Why America Failed”), which point toward the end of America’s influenced superpower. Compared to the vibe of the nation, it seemed an appropriate parallel to the fall of the Roman Empire. “[The trilogy is] a wonderful indictment of American foreign policy, degradation of intellectual discourse [and] hypocrisy,” he says. “I started reading Berman right after the U.S. invasion
“I had friends accuse me of having Tourettes,” Tukel quips. “I’m always looking for the elephant in the room. When I spot it, I try to bring it up. Because, hell, if the people you’re talking to are intelligent and self-aware, then they’re thinking about the elephant in the room as well. It’s a hell of a lot more interesting talking about the things that make people uncomfortable than the same old bullshit.” Tukel admits “The Misogynists” very much focuses on the grandiosity of language, some balderdash. While it’s not a dissertation on culture, per se, the film does go somewhat deeper. “It plays around with broad ideas of feminism,” Tukel notes. “What is the role of prostitution in our current debate on gender [and] sexual politics? Is there any credence to the idea of ‘locker room talk?’ What is the mother’s role in teaching her daughter about the world? What is the responsibility of a father to his family? To himself?”
lic last year, as the film shows how Trump’s base follows a dog whistle in literal ways.
DIRECTOR’S NOTES: Onur Tukel directs Dylan Baker, who plays Cameron in ‘The Misogynists.’ Courtesy photo
A reader of Camille Paglia’s “Free Women, Free Men” and a fan of Richard Linklater’s film “Tape,” Tukel notes each as inspiration feeding his worldview, artistic output and even humor. “I mix all the high-brow I ingest with my own lowbrow sensibilities,” he says. It’s apparent in his choice to shoot the movie primarily in one hotel room and focusing on power of words over visual aesthetics, much like Linklater. Once the audience is introduced to the two female sex workers in the film, Paglia’s paradigms come in and push away the focus from bombastic men basking in glorified sexism to women owning their own choices regardless of how society chooses to box them in. “Paglia is tough,” Tukel notes. “She’s funny, confident to the point of arrogance, a proponent of pornography. She understands sex and nature are linked. She’s fucking erudite. . . . In fact, Paglia sees women as all-powerful sexual goddesses and feels feminism got neutered after the ‘60s, when women became infantilized by playing victim to men. . . . I’ve been both misogynist and misanthrope in my life. I have a terrible temper and I don’t like being told what to do. I’ve been in long-term relationships . . . and when you’re in a relationship, sometimes people yell, things get broken. I’ve said horrible misogynistic things. I’ve had drinks thrown in my face. All very dehumanizing. All very humiliating. Am I ashamed? Sure. And if I was to write about all the other things I’m ashamed of, I could publish an encyclopedia.” It’s precisely why Tukel directs, writes, acts, paints, and makes films. He clearly chunks all of his thought pieces and experiences from life into work. In “The Misogynists,” scenes between the prostitutes and two men hiring them bring to light a woman’s worth and her deserved respect in the throes of “locker room talk.” Audiences will not be able to avoid the POTUS’s “grab ‘em by the pussy” remarks made pub-
“Actually, there’s a long section on ‘grabbing women’s pussies’ I cut out of the film,” Tukel tells. “And I regret it. Because I know the scenes would have played well today. Baxter is talking to his wife on the phone, and she’s asking him how many pussies he grabbed in college. He has to defend himself, claiming, ‘I’ve never grabbed an unsolicited pussy in my life.’ It really does speak to what’s happening now with the #metoo movement. There’s no gray area when it comes to physical abuse. If you touch someone without consent, it’s wrong—end of story. If you talk someone into giving you a blow-job and they regret it later, that’s another story. I honestly felt Trump was finished after the ‘grabbing pussies’ comments came out. I thought he was toast. But you have to hand it to women: Many just didn’t care. Maybe because there’s a little truth to it. Wealth and power are an aphrodisiac. Many women will let a powerful man have their way with them. Look at Weinstein. And I know I might get in trouble for saying this, but you know, ‘An honest man is always in trouble.’ This is from Hal Hartley’s ‘Henry Fool.’ Great fucking line.” If anything, “The Misogynists” challenges audiences to take a hard look at themselves and the morals they uphold but also to consider how it interacts with freedoms, more specifically, freedom of speech. Can we say whatever the hell we want without repercussion nowadays? Sure. But the stakes are higher. Recording devices are at everyone’s fingertips, and access to the World Wide Web means a push of a button can make it viral—which means also upholding accountability.
who seem aloof. The Mexican waiter, who just shrugs off Trump’s victory, after not voting at all, is a good example. “That’s what millions of liberals did on Election Day,” Tukel tells. “They shrugged because they didn’t think Donald Trump could win. Now that he has won, it’s as if they were campaigning for Hillary the entire time. But this is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of themes in the movie. There’s a wonderful theme on sentient technology—the kind that invades and mesmerizes without warning. Many of us have forfeited our mental sovereignty to screens and video. Are we free? The movie asks this question throughout. In a way, the hotel room in the movie is a prison. The characters are also prisoners of their own closed-mindedness. In 2016, so many Americans have embraced the negativity, and in doing so, have said ‘no’ to eternity.”
DETAILS:
The Misogynists
Nov. 9, 7:15 p.m. Thalian Hall • 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 cucalorus.org
Onur Tukel will have a second film showing in Cucalorus, which he made with filmmaker Bob Byington, “Infinity Baby” stars Kieran Culkin, Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman and will screen Sun., Nov. 12, 7:15 p.m. at Thalian’s ballroom.
“Free speech is imperiled by the fact that privacy no longer exists,” he says. “If I tell something to a friend in the privacy of a hotel room, it’s not the same as recording it for public consumption. But if that conversation is recorded and shared, the public doesn’t care. They’re like vultures swarming in to pick apart a carcass. Context is dead. In a lot of ways, truth is dead. It’s all just righteous indignation.” The comedy of “The Misogynists” makes many of its real-world topics bearable. Tukel barely scratches the surface on major issues like a border wall, post-election protests, and reactionary fatalism. He wanted the conversations to be as easily relatable as if two people were having them over dinner. “I’m trying to capture an overall mood of election night in the first 45 minutes,” he details. “On the left, there was panic. On the right, excited smugness (understandably). After that, we go into dime-store sexual politics for 15 minutes, then everything converges in the last 25 minutes or so. As a whole, I think the movie is profound and relevant. But I didn’t want the conversations to ever feel too didactic or self-important.” Such can be seen in some of his favorite characters in the film, particularly all the ones
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER GREAT OUTDOOR PATIO UNIQUE SPECIALS DAILY 250 Racine Drive • Wilmington, NC Racine Commons • 910.523.5362 www.BlueSurfCafe.com encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 25
REBOOT
RENEW
REBOUND
MASSAGE.
FACIALS.
STRETCH.
Special Intro Rate — Limited Time Only
45
$
MASSAGE, FACIAL or STRETCH Intro 60-min. session*
MAYFAIRE TOWN CENTER 6863 Main Street Off Military Cutoff Road (910) 256-1211
MONKEY JUNCTION
5541 Carolina Beach Rd Home Depot Shopping Center (910) 794-5252
Open Late, Nights & Weekends *Offer valid for first-time guests only 10/01/2017-12/31/2017 at participating franchised locations listed above only. All session times include up to a total of 10 minutes for consultation and/or dressing, which occurs both pre and post service. Prices subject to change. Rates and services may vary by franchised location and session. Additional local taxes and fees may apply. Not all Massage Envy locations offer all services. For a specific list of services available or additional information about joining as a member, check with the specific location or see MassageEnvy.com. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2017 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC.
26 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 27
28 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 29
30 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Deal of the Week This week only: November 8 November 14 Limited quantity!
$25 gift certificates for only
$12.50 260 Racine Dr, Wilmington (910) 799-6799
yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.com
Only available at encoredeals.com encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 31
ARTS>>FILM
BEAUTIFUL TALES OF HUMANITY: Cucalorus 23 poignantly portrays life’s inimatable ups and downs
Art Basel, for the uninitiated or uncool kids, is the premier international art fair for contemporary and emerging artists, galleries and collectors held in Basel, Switzerland, Miami Beach and Hong Kong each year. This is Anna’s first time attending. Her cool friend Fitz’s (Michael Seater) parents have some swanky digs in Miami, so there she goes to meet him and their friend, Riley (Sam Coyle)—an artist who has her first show in the fair. They’re all really excited for her, naturally, but clearly jealous.
BY: EMILY CAULFIELD Knife Skills Sat., Nov. 11, 4:45 p.m. CFCC Union Station Tickets: $15 Any devotee of French cooking will tell you to keep it fresh and keep it simple. Thomas Lennon’s tear-jerking, feel-great documentary about a Cleveland restaurant staffed with ex-inmates follows this recipe. The results are better than a five-star dinner. In fall 2014, Brandon Edwin Chrostowski launched Edwin’s Leadership and Restaurant Institute in Cleveland after learning the area has one of the highest incarceration rates in the country. Growing up troubled himself—when no one expected him to do anything good; when he barely graduated high school; when he got into trouble with the law—a judge took mercy on him and gave him a break instead of a prison sentence. He was able to turn his life around in the food industry, in which he’s worked all over for Michelin-starred chefs and worldfamous restaurateurs. Chrostowski, who speaks baldly and emotionally throughout the film, says, “It was more than a second chance; it was a second life.” He was in New York when he decided to move to Cleveland and make a real difference in a community that mattered to him. He believes “every human being, regardless of their past, has the right to a fair and equal future,” and his passion and endurance is an inspiration to watch. Juxtaposing cold, hard prison statistics and recidivism rates with the bustling pace of a restaurant kitchen and culinary classroom, “Knife Skills” is a broad look at Chrostowski’s program. It connects with a handful of individual students, and gives audiences a closer look at their backgrounds and how they got to Edwin’s. Their experiences are all different, of course, but also emblematic; tyhey represent hundreds of thousands of men and women who try daily to find good work and rebuild their lives.
Riley’s working-artist earnestness is a perfect foil for clever Anna and libertine Fitz, but their perfect triangle is disrupted by the presence of a long-absent and estranged friend, Bernie (Brittany Allen), whose alcohol-averse, gluten-free fussiness is a wet woolen blanket on all their fun. Over the weekend, there is laughter and tears, sex and violence, art and dancing, and a lot of drinks.
EVERYONE HAS A PAST: Allan (above) is one of several former inmates who have become culinary artists in ‘Knife Skills.’ Courtesy photo
aggravated robbery, echoes this sentiment. “There is a focus I have that other people don’t,” Daudi explains. ”When you’re an employer that is across the table from an ex-prisoner, the one thing you should know is they have something to prove, and their loyalty level will be higher. They’re dragging around a chip on their shoulder and it’s actually a good thing. [Laughs] So it’s a beautiful thing.” Daudi’s attitude, Chrostowski’s attitude, applies to many students. Gratitude for second chances, for finally having a place to belong and someone’s belief in them, is repeated often across the film. In background of this speech are shots of Brandon and Daudi tasting cheese, Brandon giving notes on flavors and balance, milk and each animal’s diet. As Daudi laughs and says, “So it’s a beautiful thing,” we can hear Brandon talking about the animals eating flowers and herbs—how those floral and herbaceous notes come through the cheese.
Brandon’s hope, his drive and determination, are the backbone of the film. His own past drives him—and nearly up the wall, at that. He states several times he’s at his best in the restaurant, and anywhere else The symbiosis struck me as a powerful he cannot breathe—that the uglier people are inside, the better they are at this busi- moment in the film—quite representative ness, including himself. Daudi, an Edwin’s of clever editing. The filmmaker used imagstudent who served 10 years in prison for ery and voiceover to show what could have 32 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
been, and what was. It underlines something poignant, like Daudi’s hope in conjunction with the suggested imagery of the flowers. It demonstrates the chasm between someone’s old neighborhood and where someone might be today. When looking at documentary, there is more to the equation than just watchability. Audiences have to consider whether something is compelling because the subject is moving, or whether filmmakers use their medium to tell a story. In the case of “Knife Skills,” which I immensely enjoyed, it’s both. The Definites Fri., Nov. 10, 7:15 p.m. Thalian Main Tickets: $15 “The Definites” opens with hard-drinking “I-never-get-hangovers” ad woman Anna (Hannah Cheesman) on a precipice: She’s about to sign on a house with her long-time, live-in boyfriend Charlie (Kristian Braun), but she definitely doesn’t want to. She leaves him in a parking lot, holding his balls and a bottle of champagne, and sprints away to meet her friends at Art Basel in Miami, ostensibly to let off some steam. But the weekend soon turns into a highly watchable and unexpectedly compelling odyssey to get her shit together, and find out what hole in her messy life she’s trying to fill to the brim with booze and blast with music.
The next three days are a rollicking quest, and we are lovingly pulled into the trip, with beautifully fluid camera work, an innovative sound design, and current music. The film deftly expresses exactly how people feel in their late 20s; everything is tender and scary and alluring and bizarre. It takes us to another city, on the wild seas of Miami, with all its beautiful and exotic fish. And the world is their oyster, right? The camera—often moving languidly through scenes at eye- or torso-level—is totally intimate, immediate and immersive. The technique brings us closely into the action, and we’re bamboozled if it isn’t uncannily authentic. As the opening credits roll, Austra’s “Utopia” plays. It’s a lush and triumphant synthpop anthem, escapist music fitting of Anna’s MO (and ours, by association) perfectly. Her very first actions, scored by this song, wordlessly acted, express pretty quickly that audiences are witnessing a picaresque. Anna’s trying to escape her life, rein it in, let it out, make something happen. Her journey into Basel is her way to figure out what she needs and where to go next. If Anna’s on an odyssey, and her body is a ship, her choice of fuel is booze and drugs. Like Odysseus, she’s careening around with a destination in mind (relief from herself, most likely), meeting sirens (the music) and monsters (her addictions) and mirages (men) along the way. Over and over again, the film dissolves into music and movement, as Anna steers her way from one episode into another. Her friends keep telling her to
pily ever after. But 20 weeks proves to be their relationship’s turning point, as well as the pregnancy’s. The next day Maya surprises Ronin with her optimistic attitude, a real desire to keep the baby, a belief the worst will not come, that they and their new little one will endure, and prevail. Ronin, however, is totally flipped. His passion to be a parent is completely doused by this watershed moment. And he—and their bond—begin to break down. Because of constant shifts in time and space, we never know where we will land as we navigate through the story with Maya and Ronin, and the anxiety it produces is like a fourth person in the room. We see how it ends, and then we’re right back in the middle, left wondering in what shape we’ll find them again, and how we’ll finally leave them.
A TURNING POINT: Anna Margaret Hollyman plays Maya (above), who struggles with lifechanging decisions midway through pregnancy in ‘20 Weeks.’ Courtesy photo
“get your shit together,” and those words slowly slip in with the music. She listens; eventually, things do start to happen. Encounters she thought would go one place go on another course entirely, and we are here for it as we witness her slow arc back to reality—her arrival back on dry land. Each bout of drinking or dancing or drama fleshes out Anna’s story, and we see her choose differently and try a new direction. It’s tender and entertaining and relatable, a journey we’ve all taken—maybe a few times, exuberantly scored. And don’t we all move to music in our own minds? 20 Weeks Sat., Nov. 11, 1:15 p.m. Thalian Main Tickets: $15 Every relationship has its anniversaries, special dates and unforgettable milestones. These landmark moments color everything before and after, dip-dying the delicate silks of memory and fragile eggs of future plans with a shade that deconstructs and reconstructs, and nothing is ever the same again. Leena Pendharkar’s “20 Weeks” begins as a study of a relationship but evolves into a story about a woman, biology, equality, and expectation, cowardice and bravery. In a remarkably understated performance, Anna Margaret Hollyman portrays an ordinary woman who faces the betrayal of her own body. Told in painterly compositions and rich, muted colors, with clever editing that slips audiences vertiginously back and forth in time and space, “20 Weeks” explores
such an event: a narrow and deep portrait of expectation and grief between a couple halfway through their first pregnancy. Maya (Hollyman) and Ronin (Amir Arison) are in love, but they haven’t been together for very long before Maya discovers she’s pregnant. Ronin—who told her during the salad days of their relationship that not wanting kids is a dealbreaker—is cautiously thrilled, while Maya, ambivalent about all things baby, is less so. In fact, she’s so upset about the pregnancy she schedules an abortion. However, she reconsiders when Ronin proposes to her outside Planned Parenthood, and promises he will be there for her and the baby, through the pregnancy and babyhood, childhood, and beyond. She’s unhappy and scared, but Ronin’s exuberance and steadfastness convinces her to keep the child.
Throughout the dizzying course of the film, though, we witness another Maya begin to emerge. As the irritant inside her reluctant body becomes a part of her, we watch as she shifts to accommodate a secret, spinning pearl, while sloughing off her fear and discomfort, the person she used to be, and the person she thought she was going to become. The evolution is genuinely affecting, a fascinating process, tender and unmissable.
At 20 weeks, the halfway point of a pregnancy, they go in for some routine prenatal care. During the ultrasound, the tech finds an anomaly, one that could indicate anything from a superficial deformity to a serious disorder. The scene is so brutal, the hushed tones of the doctors and the couple’s un-uttered questions, their silence as they numbly acquiesce to more tests, are deafening. Even with an amniocentesis, there are still possibilities of problems that cannot be diagnosed until birth. Devastated, Maya and Ronin have nothing to do but go home, digest the shock, and wait ... and wait. They still have options: Their home state of California’s less restrictive laws allow late-term abortions to be performed under this kind of circumstance. At this point, a procedure to end the pregnancy seems like the most reasonable decision: Maya never wanted the baby to begin with. Maybe they can get married and take their time, try again later. When her writing career has taken off. When they’re more settled as a couple. They can still live hap-
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 33
SOUTHEASTERN NC’S PREMIER DINING GUIDE
GRUB & GUZZLE
YOSHI SUSHI BAR AND JAPANESE CUISINE • www.yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.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
still retaining our Carolina roots. We provide a delicate balance of flavors and freshness in a comfortable and inviting setting. We offer a unique breakfast menu until noon daily, including specialty waffles, skillet hashes and unique breakfast sandwiches. Our lunch menu is packed with a wide variety of options, from house roasted pulled pork, to our mahi sandwich and customer favorite, meatloaf sandwich. Our dinner features a special each night along with our favorite house entrees: Braised Beef Brisket, Mojo Pork and Mahi. All of our entrees are as delicious as they are inventive. We also have a full beer and wine list. Come try the “hidden gem” of Wilmington today. 250 Racine Drive Ste. 1, Wilmington 910-5235362. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: Monday to Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Breakfast served until noon each day! ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily Specials, Gluten Free Menu, Gourmet Hot Chocolates, Outdoor Patio, New Artist event first Friday of every month and Kids Menu. ■ WEBSITE: www.bluesurfcafe.com
BLUE SURF CAFÉ CAM CAFÉ Sophisticated Food…Casual Style. We offer a menu CAM Café, located within the CAM delivers delightful that has a heavy California surf culture influence while surprises using fresh, local ingredients. The café serves lunch with seasonal options Tuesday thru Saturday, in-
34 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
spired “small plates” on Wednesday 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 the art of the museum. 3201 S 17th St. (910) 777-2363. ■ SERVING LUNCH, BRUNCH & DINNER: Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 11am-2pm; Thursday evening, 5pm9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.camcafe.org THE DISTRICT KITCHEN & COCKTAILS A new addition to the Brooklyn Arts and downtown area, The District Kitchen & Cocktails is serving fresh, seasonal menus in a polished casual atmosphere. We feature locally sourced ingredients when available. For lunch, we offer delicious burgers and sandwiches, while dinner features steaks, chops and seafood all handcrafted by executive chef Luke Poulos. Within blocks of CFCC and the Riverwalk, The District welcomes diners to enjoy inspired wines, craft cocktails and NC draught beers at their renovated bar and restaurant, located at 1001 N. 4th St. 910-(910) 769-6565 ■ SERVING DINNER: Tues-Wed 5pm-9pm, Thurs.-Sat
photo courtesy of Tom Dorgan 5pm-10pm ■ SERVING BRUNCH: Sunday 11am-3pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Brooklyn Arts District ■ WEBSITE: www.districtnc.com 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 THE FELIX CAFE The Felix Cafe is a restaurant experience like no other in Wilmington, N.C. Our eatery is a unique and relaxing gem situated near the port, and at the edge of Sunset Park on Burnett Blvd. We believe fine dining doesn’t have
to come with all the fuss. From our homemade soups to the locally sourced produce, we let the ingredients speak for themselves in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Folks will enjoy the outdoor seating, our vibrant staff, the colorful interior, and our cabana style tiki bar. You will come here as a customer and leave as a friend. 2140 Burnett Blvd. (910) 399-1213. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon closed. Tues-Fri 11am-9 pm. Sat and Sun breakfast 8-11:30, opened 8am to 9pm. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Sunset Park, Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials, full bar, check out our facebook for wine tasting and live music schedule ■ WEBSITE: www.thefelixcafewilmington.com and facebook.com/thefelixcafewilmington 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. ■ WEBSITE: www.henrysrestaurant.com HOLIDAY INN RESORT Oceans Restaurant located in this oceanfront resort is a wonderful find. This is the perfect place to enjoy a fresh Seafood & Steak dinner while dinning outside overlook-
ing the Atlantic Ocean. Chef Eric invites you to experience his daily specials in this magnificent setting. (910) 256-2231. 1706 N. Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.Sat. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Waterfront dining ■ WEBSITE: www.holidayinn.com HOPS SUPPLY CO. 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. ■ 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 JOHNNYLUKES KITCHENBAR Good eats, good drinks, and great times is what JohnnyLukes KitchenBar is all about. JohnnyLukes KitchenBar serves Wilmington, NC a variety of 19 rotating craft beers on tap, a hand selected eclectic American wine list, fun cocktails, and of course, exceptional food. Our two-story layout brings the best of both worlds under one roof. Downstairs at JohnnyLukes KitchenBar pair your beer or wine with our Parmesan Crusted Pork
Chop, Chicken Pot Pie, Ribeye, or one of our many main entrees and sharable plates. Or, join us upstairs at JL’s Loft and pair a beer with one of our multiple burgers, JL’s roast beef sandwich, meatball sandwich, or one of our many appetizers (we recommend both!). So next time you are looking for a new and exciting restaurant in Wilmington, NC where you can experience both great craft beer and amazing food, be sure to head over to JohnnyLukes KitchenBar and JL’s Loft! 5500 Market Street, Suite 130. (910)-769-1798 ■ OPEN: JohnnyLukes KitchenBar: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 10pm; JL’s Loft: Mon to Sun: 11:30am to 2am ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.johnnylukeskb.com 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 four-course 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; Seasonal hours are open 7 days a week, Memorial Day through 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: Mondays and Memorial Day-October, 7-9pm ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com MUNCHIES The most unique restaurant in Wilmington is Munchies. Located adjacent to the UNCW campus, Munchies provides a new take on classic American fare. Selling items unavailable anywhere else such as the famous “Fat Sandwiches”, decadent milk shakes, and fried desserts set Munchies apart, while the incredible flavor of traditional items such as burgers and wings make Munchies stand out. Open until 3 am daily, and offering dine in, take out, and delivery options, as well the choice of ordering online, Munchies is a new American classic for todays modern world. Perfect for lunch, dinner or a late night snack, and totally customizable, Munchies makes sure you get your food, your way, all day. 419 S. College Rd., Unit 35, 910-798-4999. Dine in • Delivery • Take out ■ OPEN LUNCH AND DINNER: 12pm - 3 am daily ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: munchiesfoodco.com 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 child-
Serving seasonally inspired, locally-sourced Southern Cuisine.
P embroke ’ s
Proudly purchasing all of our seafood, protein, and produce from local fishermen, vendors, and farmers.
Bar SpecialS:
TueSday: pemBroke’S Burger and a nc drafT Beer $14 WedneSday: WingS and a nc drafT Beer $10 ThurSday: riBS and a nc drafT Beer $17
dining room Special: TueSday Through SaTurday: chef’S choice 3 courSe dinner for 2 WiTh a BoTTle of Wine for $80
Dinner Daily: Tuesday - Saturday starting at 5pm (includeS a Shared appeTizer & deSSerT, 2 enTreeS and BoTTle of Wine - all Sunday Brunch: 10am-2pm chef and Sommelier’S choice)
1125 a, m iliTary c uToff r d . • (910) 239-9153 WWW . pemBrokeScuiSine . com
F acebook :
Facebook . com / pembrokeswilmington or Follow us on instagram @ pembrokecuisine
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 35
hood. Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is something for all palates. Take advantage of their takehome 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 RISE Serving up the best dang biscuits and donuts in Wilmington, Rise is not any typical breakfast spot. Our donut menu includes an assortment of ‘old school, new school, and our school’ flavors; and our buttery, flaky biscuits filled with country ham, bacon, sausage, fried chicken, and fried eggplant “bacon” are crave-worthy. Lunch is on the Rise with our new chicken sandwiches on potato rolls and fresh salads. 1319 Military Cutoff Rd. (910) 239-9566 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.- Sun. 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ WEBSITE: http://risebiscuitsdonuts.com SPOONFED KITCHEN & BAKE SHOP Newly opened Spoonfed Kitchen & Bake Shop is bringing their love for great food and customer service to Wilmington! Spoonfed Kitchen & Bake Shop specializes in creating wholesome, delightful foods to feed your lifestyle. Please join us in our cafe for breakfast, lunch & weekend brunch. We offer coffee & pastries, great foods to go from our deli & freezer cases (appetizers, salads, entrees & sides), bakery items (scones, cinnamon rolls, cookies, brownies, pies & more), gluten-free bakery items, and specialty market, cheeses & beverage. Catering is also available for all budets from personal to corporate to events. #feedyourlifestyle. 1930 Eastwood Road, Suite 105, Wilmington, NC 28403, (910) 6798881. Open Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Sat. - Sun. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ SERVING BRUNCH: Sat. & Sun. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ WEBSITE: www.spoonfedkitchen.com THE TROLLY STOP Trolly Stop Hot Dogs is a five-store franchise in Southeastern North Carolina. Since 1976 they have specialized in storemade chili, slaw and various sauces. As of more recently, select locations (Fountain Dr. and Southport) have started selling genuine burgers and cheese steaks (Beef & Chicken). Our types of hotdogs include beef & Pork (Trolly Dog), all-beef, pork smoked sausage (Carolina Packer), Fat Free (Turkey) & Veggie. Recognized as having the Best Hot Dog in the Best of Wilmington Awards in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Call Individual Stores for hours of operation or check out our website at www.trollystophotdogs.com. Catering available, now a large portion of our business. All prices include tax. Call Rick at 297-8416 for catering and franchise information. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ LOCATIONS: Wilmington, Fountain Dr. (910) 4523952 Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-3921 Southport (910) 457-7017 Boone, NC (828) 265-2658 Chapel Hill, NC (919) 240-4206 ■ WEBSITE: www.trollystophotdogs.com
36 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
ASIAN HIBACHI TO GO Hibachi To Go is a locally owned, family business serving only the freshest ingredients with two 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. We’re convenient for lunch and dinner. Open 7 days 11 am - 9 pm. Our popular Daily Lunch Specials are featured Monday-Friday for $4.69 with selections from our most popular menu items! We always have fresh seafood selections at Hibachi To Go, like delicious peeled our shrimp, fresh local flounder and always a fresh catch fillet in-house. We quick grill our seafood for great flavor and healthy meal. Check our Facebook Page for today’s awesome Hibachi To Go Lunch Special. Always fresh, great food at a super good price. Hibachi To Go Facebook. Hampstead Phone: 910.270.9200. • Ogden Phone: 910.791.7800 Kerr Ave Phone: 910-833-8841 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open 7 days 11am-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, North Wilmington, Hampstead ■ WEBSITE: www.hibachitogo.com INDOCHINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 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. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues.- Fri. 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.; Sat. 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. for lunch. Mon.- Sun. 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. for dinner. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.indochinewilmington.com NIKKI’S FRESH GOURMET For more than a decade, Nikki’s downtown has served diners the best in sushi. With freshly crafted ingredients making up their rolls, sushi and sashimi, a taste of innovation comes with every order. Daily they offer specialty rolls specific to the Front Street location, such as the My Yoshi, K-Town and Crunchy Eel rolls. But for less adventurous diners looking for options beyond sushi, Nikki’s serves an array of sandwiches, wraps and gyros, too. They also make it a point to host all dietary needs, omnivores, carnivores and herbivores alike. They have burgers and cheesesteaks, as well as falafal pitas and veggie wraps, as well as an extensive Japanese fare menu, such as bento boxes and tempura platters. Daily dessert and drink special are also on order. Check out their website and Facebook for more information. 16 S. Front St. (910) 771-9151. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am10pm; Fri.-Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 12pm-10pm. Last call on food 15 minutes before closing. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.nikkissushibar.com/
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: Mon.-Thurs., 11am2:30pm / 4-10pm; Fri., 11am-2:30pm / 4pm-11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am-9:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ 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 delicious Downtown spot for date night, socializing with friends, or any large dinner party. Home to the neverdisappointing Shanghai Firecracker Shrimp! In addition to sushi, we offer a full Pan Asian menu including curries, noodle dishes, and the ever-popular Crispy Salmon or mouth-watering Kobe Burger. Inspired features change weekly showcasing our commitment to local farms. Full bar including a comprehensive sake list, signature cocktails, and Asian Import Bottles. 33 S. Front St., 2nd Floor (910) 763-3172. ■ SERVING DINNER: 7 nights a week @ 5PM; Sun-Wed until 10pm, Thurs until 11pm, Fri & Sat until Midnight. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: 1/2 Price Sushi/Appetizer Menu nightly from 5-7, until 8 on Mondays, and also 10-Midnight on Fri/Sat. Tuesday LOCALS NIGHT - 20% Dinner Entrees. Wednesday 80S NIGHT - 80s music and menu prices. Sundays are the best deal downtown - Specialty Sushi and Entrees are Buy One, Get One $10 Off and 1/2 price Wine Bottles. Nightly Drink Specials. GlutenFree Menu upon request. Complimentary Birthday Dessert. ■ WEBSITE: www.yosake.com. @yosakeilm on Twitter & Instagram. Like us on Facebook. YOSHI 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 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. 12pm-11pm, Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-11pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine. com
BAGELS BEACH BAGELS Beach Bagels is “the” favorite spot for breakfast and lunch in Wilmington. Get a taste of a New York-style bagel by the beach. We make our bagels the traditional way: kettle-boiled then baked and always made with love. Enjoy something simple like a traditional BLT, or spice it up and try our AnnieWB: turkey breast, bacon, Swiss, lettuce, tomato, mayo, onions, and jalapeños. Not in the mood for a bagel? Don’t worry, we have ciabatta bread, croissants, kaiser rolls, biscuits, and wraps. Whatever you’re looking for, we have you covered. Don’t forget to make your lunch sandwich a combo for only $1.50,. and get a small drink, potato salad or chips and a pickle spear. Come see us at 5906 Oleander Drive or 7220 Wrightsville Avenue—right before the drawbridge on the way to beautiful Wrightsville Beach. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown and Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Homemade bagels, biscuits, croissants, sandwiches, and more! ■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/Beach-Bagels-301865953202309/
CARIBBEAN JAMAICA’S COMFORT ZONE Tucked in the U-shape of University Landing, a block from UNCW is Wilmington’s fave Caribbean restaurant, serving diners for over nine years. Family-owned and -operated, Jamaica’s Comfort Zone provides a relaxing atmosphere along with a blend of Caribbean delights. Our guests have graced us with numerous compliments over the years: “explosive Caribbean culinary experience”; “every year we are here on vacation—you are our first stop”; “flavors just dance in my mouth.” From traditional Jamaican breakfast to mouth-watering classic dishes such as Brownstew chicken, curry goat, oxtail, and jerk pork, our selections also include many vegetarian and select seafood options. Student meal options are $6.99, and catering options are available. University Landing, 417 S. College Road, Wilmington SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues-Sat., 11:45am9pm. Closed Sun. and Mon. NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown WEBSITE: www.jamaicascomfortzone.net, and follow us on Facebook or Twitter
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. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Dinner shows, jazz brunches, and more ■ WEBSITE: www.theatrewilmington.com
IRISH 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. ■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Greenfield Lake/Downtown South ■ 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
ITALIAN ANTONIO’S Serving fresh, homemade Italian fare in midtown and south Wilmington, Antonio’s Pizza and Pasta is a familyowned 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. ■ 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.) ■ NEIGHBORHOOD DELIVERY OFFERED: Monkey Junction and near Independence Mall ■ WEBSITE: www.antoniospizzaandpasta.com FAT TONY’S ITALIAN PUB Fat Tony’s has the right combination of Italian and American influences to mold it into a unique family-friendly restaurant with a “gastropub” feel. Boasting such menu items as Veal Saltimbocca, Eggplant Parmigiana, USDA Prime Sirloin, and award-winning NY style hand-tossed pizzas, Fat Tony’s is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their appetizers range from Blue Crab Dip to Grilled Pizzas to Lollipop Lamb Chops. Proudly supporting the craft beer movement, they have an ever-changing selection of microbrews included in their 27-tap lineup – 12 of which are from NC. They have a wide selection of bottled beers, a revamped wine list, and an arsenal of expertly mixed cocktails that are sure to wet any whistle. Fat Tony’s
VOTED BEST PUB IN WILMINGTON BY SOUTHERN LIVING MAGAZINE
Open for Lunch & Dinner
BEST IN TOWN! STEAKS
WINGS
Have your next party with us inside or out. Call us today! 910.762.4354
RIBS
SALADS
Save 10% with our loyalty card. Ask how to sign up today!
In the Cotton Exchange • Downtown Wilmington • FREE PARKING encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 37
offers lunch specials until 3pm Monday through Friday and a 10% discount to students and faculty at CFCC. They have two pet-friendly patios – one looking out onto Front Street and one with a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River. With friendly, excellent service and a fun, inviting atmosphere, expect to have your expectations exceeded at Fat Tony’s. Find The Flavor…..Craft Beer, Craft Pizza! ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Monday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm; Fri.-Sat., 11 am-Midnight; Sun., noon-10 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: www.fatpub.com ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials until 3pm and late night menu from 11pm until closing. SLICE OF LIFE “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) 2519444, 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. ■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: 11:30 a.m.-3 a.m., 7 days/week, 365 days/year. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Downtown and Wilmington South. ■ FEATURING: Largest tequila selection in town! ■ WEBSITE: www.grabslice.com
LATIN AMERICAN SAN JUAN CAFÉ Offering the most authentic, gourmet Latin American cuisine in Wilmington. With dishes from countries such as Puerto Rico, Colombia, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and Cuba you’ll be able to savor a variety of flavors from all over Latin America. Located at 3314 Wrightsville Avenue. 910.790.8661 Follow us on Facebook/Twitter for live music updates! ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon - Sat. 11 a.m.2:30 p.m. and from 5-10 p.m. Closed Sunday. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Nightly specials ■ WEBSITE: www.sanjuancafenc.com
MEXICAN EL CERRO GRANDE In January, El Cerro Grande will celebrate 25 years serving authentic, delicious Mexican cuisine to the greater Wilmington area. With an ever-evolving menu, they have introduced eight new exclusive soft tacos as part of Taco Fiesta! They churn out mouth-watering enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, chef specialties, and more, in a colorfully inviting dining room marked by a friendly staff and attention to detail. Check out El Cerro’s daily drink and food specials at their three different locations, including $3.50 margaritas on Tuesdays off Military Road, on Wednesdays at 341 S. College Road, and on Thursdays at 5120 S. College Road. Mondays feature fajita dinners
Specials: TUES NIGHT: 1/2 Price wines by the glass WED NIGHT: 1/2 Price Draft beers
Dinner Daily: Tuesday - Saturday starting at 5pm Sunday Brunch: 10am-2pm featuring DIY Mimosa = 1 bottle of sparkling wine and a mason jar of hand squeezed OJ
www . rxwilmington . com
421 c astle s t • (910) 399-3080 F acebook :
Facebook . com / rxwilmington / or Follow us on instagram rxrestaurantandbar
38 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
for 10.99 at all locations, and they even have karaoke every Wednesday at 341 S. College Rd, starting at 6 p.m. Serving lunch and dinner daily. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri., open at 11 a.m.; Sat-Sun., open at 11:30 a.m. ■ LOCATIONS: 341 S. College Rd., 910-793-0035; 5120 S. College Rd., 910-790-8727; 1051 Military Cutoff Rd., 910-679-4209 ■ WEBSITE: www.elcerrogranderestaurant.com 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
ORGANIC LOVEY’S NATURAL FOODS & CAFÉ Lovey’s Natural Foods & Café is a true blessing for shoppers looking for organic and natural groceries and supplements, or a great place to meet friends for a quick, delicious and totally fresh meal or snack. Whether you are in the mood for a veggie burger, hamburger or a chicken Caesar wrap, shoppers will find a large selection of nutritious meals on the a la carte Lovey’s Cafe’ menu. The Food Bar—which has cold, organic salads and hot selections—can be eaten in the newly expanded Lovey’s Cafe’ or boxed for take-out. The Juice Bar offers a wide variety of delicious juices and smoothies made with organic fruits and vegetables. Specializing in bulk sales of grains, flours, beans and spices at affordable prices. Lovey’s has a great selection of local produce and receives several weekly deliveries to ensure freshness. Lovey’s also carries organic grass-fed and freerange meats and poultry. wheat-free and gluten-free products are in stock regularly, as are vegan and vegetarian groceries. Lovey’s also carries Wholesome Pet Foods. Stop by Lovey’s Market Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 am to 6 p.m.. Located at 1319 Military Cutoff Rd in the Landfall Shopping Center; (910) 509-0331. “You’ll Love it at Lovey’s!” ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Café open: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.(salad bar open all the time). Market hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington in the Landfall Shopping Center ■ FEATURING: Organic Salad Bar/Hot Bar, Bakery with fresh, organic pies and cakes. ■ WEBSITE: www.loveysmarket.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 its growing popularity, the restaurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to a second location in Porter’s Neck, and coming soon in 2017, their third location in 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 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 Seafood. 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) Handcrafted 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 “BohemianChic” 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 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. ■ 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 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch 11am-3pm. 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 po-boys, 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 ■ NEIGHBORHOODS: Carolina Beach and Downtown ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials. Like us on Facebook! ■ WEBSITE: www.TheShuckinShack.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 Tues-
days. ■ 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 PEMBROKE’S A seasonally inspired and locally sourced Southern cuisine dining experience, Pembroke’s was created by the owners of downtown’s Rx Restaurant. Pembroke’s focuses on the same values and excellent service as its sister restaurant, purveying local companies for the best in seafood, proteins and produce. They work with local fisherman and farmers to ensure your meal will be freshly grown and hand chosen. A new dinner menu is churned out daily to ensure the chefs are working with the freshest ingredients. Plus, the bartenders are creating new drink menus daily as to never bore your taste buds. 1125 A Military Cutoff Rd. 910-239-9153. ■ SERVING BRUNCH & DINNER: Open for dinner TuesSun, 5pm-close, with live music Fri-Sat nights. Sunday brunch, 10am-3pm. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: www.pembrokescuisine.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 sports-themed 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 South College Road. (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 JAX 5TH AVE. DELI & ALE HOUSE Locally owned and operated, Jax offers a laid-back atmosphere, welcoming foodies, sports fans, and craft beer enthusiasts alike. We provide a full eclectic menu of quality Boar’s Head sliced meat and cheeses, and feature unique items like our smoked salmon deviled egg, a legendary Italian sandwich, and famous pita pizzas that bake up lite and crispy. 20 HDTVs feature premium sports packaging for all the games! Supporting local craft breweries with 24 drafts and over 100 different bottles and cans, enjoy it all inside the shiny silver building or outside on the dog-friendly patio at 5046 New Centre Dr. Carry out: 910-859-7374. ■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Full menu until 2am daily. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, near UNCW ■ FEATURING: Daily food and drink specials. ■ WEBSITE: www.facebook.com/ JaxFifthAveDeliAleHouse
“Like ceviche?”
“Then you’ll love Savorez!”
402 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 833-8894 • www.savorez.com Mon.-Fri.: 11:30 AM -10:30 PM, Sat.: Noon-10:00 PM , Sun.: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 39
40 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Upcoming Events: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10 | 7:00 P.M. Volleyball vs William & Mary SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11 | 7:00 P.M. Men’s Basketball vs NC Wesleyan
Game sponsored by BB&T Toys for Tots game - Ticket is $10 with a donation of a new unwrapped toy
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12 | 1:00 P.M. Volleyball vs Elon SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12 | 2:00 P.M. Women’s Basketball vs UNCP
Toys for Tots game - Ticket is $2 with a donation of a new unwrapped toy
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 41
HAPPENINGS & EVENTS ACROSS WILMINGTON
TO-DO CALENDAR
events
FREE ILM ELITE NETWORK
Nov. 8, 6pm: Wilmington Elite Networking powered by Rockstar Connect presents an evening of free business networking hosted by Andrew Pierce. All industries and professions welcome; bring business cards. Might as Well 250 Racine Dr., 15. Free to attend; complimentary appetizers served on a first come first serve basis. Beverages for sale. 1-800-205-2327. www.rockstarconnect.com
UNCW IWEEK
Nov. 11, noon: UNCW’s 25th annual intercultural celebration, featuring professional and student performers, showcasing international music and dance; booths representing countries, regions, student organizations and local organizations and much more! All are welcome at this free event. UNCW Burney Center, Price Dr.
UNCW I-FEST
Nov. 11, noon: UNCW’s 25th annual intercultural celebration, featuring professional and student performers, showcasing international music and dance Booths representing countries, regions,
student organizations and local organizations.... and much more! All are welcome at this free event! UNCW Burney Center, Price Dr.
UMBC COMMUNITY CHURCH BAZAAR
Nov. 11, 9am: Vendors needed for crafts, merchandise, community resources, etc. Purchase a space for only $30 (additional spaces, $15. Free lunch for Veterans in Honor of Veteran’s Days. All proceeds go to Thomas Rawley Scholarship Fund. Union Missionary Baptist Church, 2711 Princess Place Dr.
LONGWAVE YOGA HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Event raises funds to support an organization near
and dear to our hearts. We are proud to support the Cucalorus Community Engagement Program this year! Join us for a day of pay it forward yoga, raffles, expanded retail, refreshments, bliss and more and donate to this amazing program! Arriving 15-20 minutes before class and pre-register online; classes take place every hour, 9am-7pm. VIP valet parking provided by Blue Moon. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Dr., #200 VETERAN’S DAY PARADE
Nov. 11, 9:30am: Marching bands, Veterans groups, military vehicles, active duty personnel, World War II veterans as Grand Marshals, a special welcome home to Vietnam Veterans and much more. Veterans Day Parade, Front St.
FESTIVAL LATINO
Nov. 12, 11am: The 19th annual Festival Latino at Ogden Park in Wilmington, NC, features lots of Latin food, music, dancing and a kid’s fiesta with Piñatas every hour. The event includes authentic cuisine from various Latino countries, among them Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, Colombia, and Venezuela. Also: approximately 100 vendors, live music, clowns, mascots, balloons, giant inflatable rides, shows every half hour, lots of games with prizes, and a salsa dance contest Saturday at 2 pm. Sunday’s festival is just food, entertainment and a children’s soccer tournament that anyone can play in. Satu.: 11am-8pm (events for children end at 4 pm); Sun., 11am5pm. Ogden Park
charity/volunteer CAROLINA BEACH WALK OF FAME
Nov. 8, 6pm: Dinner, silent auction, 50/50 raffle, corn hole tournament, and more! Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill, 701 N Lake Pk Blvd.
FLAVOR OF NC
Nov. 11, 7pm: Experience the Flavor of North Carolina as Good Shepherd hosts a Fall Harvest Fest at the beach. We will be at the Blockade Runner Beach Resort. Join us as we enjoy an evening of delicious food, drinks, music, dancing and games all in a casual atmosphere! Bid on fantastic auction items and win prizes playing North Carolina trivia and corn hole! Celebrate your part in helping to provide a pathway to self-sufficiency for our hungry and homeless neighbors who share our Carolina home. Tickets are $60 per person. 910-763-4424 x110 or jbirnbach@goodshepherdwilmington.org.
music/concerts MUSIC CRUISES
A boat ride at sunset on the river! Join us for a 1.5 hour cruise on the Cape Fear River. Sip a drink from our full bar, enjoy the sights, while listening to music by local musicians. $27. Book: 910-3383134. Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.
ANNEX SONGWRITING SESSION
42 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
CROSSWORD
Creators syndiCate CREATORS SyNDICATE © 2017 STANLEy NEWMAN
THE NEWSDAy CROSSWORD
WWW.STANXWORDS.COM
11/12/17
Edited by Stanley Newman (www.StanXwords.com)
WHAT’S WHAT: Some adage equivalences by Fred Piscop ACROSS 1 Biographies 6 Hard to lift 11 Julius Caesar costume 15 Pealed 19 Comforting comment 20 Novelist Walker 21 Taken by spoon 22 Son of Isaac 23 “__ is __” 26 Parcheesi pair 27 Regular dates 28 Numerical prefix 29 “Hollywood’s Biggest Night” bestowals 31 Prime time hour 32 Vigor, on music 33 Moral principle 34 Polyester fabric 38 Quebec neighbor 40 Afghanistan’s capital 43 Flub 44 “__ is __” 49 Actor Neeson 50 Functioned 52 Bar garnish 53 Sushi ingredient 54 Sand shade 55 Low-heeled shoes 56 Snowy 58 Vuitton rival 60 Battery descriptor 62 Quaker captain of fiction 63 Steamy spots at spas 64 “__ is __” 68 Jack London character 71 Successor of Claudius 72 Saw to it 76 Notable function 77 Penned 79 Kitchen mishap 80 Royal pal of Falstaff
81 82 83 84 85 90 91 92 93 94 97 98 99 101 102 107 108 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119
Long, long time Respectful address Goosebumps author Motel worker “__ is __” Get extra mileage from Hits the roof Present an address Catch-22 author Allots, with “out” Verified statement Take to court Can be found Computer support pro In addition to Cheerful tune “__ is __” Just sitting around Facebook thumb icon Adventuresome one Clarification starter Bird food Former couples Trench-digging tool Nick of films
DOWN 1 Ad-__ (improvise) 2 Hosp. areas 3 Boundless 4 It’s southwest of Buffalo 5 Many a presidential candidate 6 Entertains at home 7 Besides that 8 Minor misstatements 9 Fort Worth sch. 10 “So what’s your answer?” 11 Lone Ranger’s pal 12 Crunchy ice-cream ingredient
13 Purchase from a pump 14 In addition 15 Erythrocyte 16 Cuisine category 17 Mother-of-pearl 18 One-episode costar 24 Blissful spot 25 Less congenial 30 Concert souvenir 32 Tie tightly 34 River feature 35 Common computer typeface 36 Antique car starter 37 CD-__ 38 Shape of some pot holders 39 Long, long time 40 Sort of shirt 41 Ultimate height 42 Comb dweller 45 Whodunit statement 46 Country on the Caspian 47 Bar mixer 48 Caspian et al. 50 Sci-fi being 51 “Please, please?” 55 Admiral’s command 56 Invitation subhead 57 Seraphic symbol 58 Comic strip square 59 They may be underfoot 61 Trade org. 62 Assist in wrongdoing 63 Move laterally 65 Garden decoration 66 Conqueror’s domain 67 Overproud 68 Scallion cousin 69 Stratford-upon-__
70 73 74 75 77 78 79 82 83 84 86
City near Tahoe Ryder rival Hike up Church official Walk through a creek Car wash supplies Proofreader’s mark Family Guy daughter Police jacket letters Director Brooks Took forcibly
87 88 89 90 93 94 95 96 97 98
Hold up well One way to cook eggs Corsage flowers Brings aboard, as a fish Rainbow array Neighborhood shops Rust, for example Northern French city Lavish parties Took an oath
100 Price-cutting promotion 101 Little guy 102 City near New Delhi 103 Went swiftly 104 Prom rental 105 Explorer Tasman 106 Park-bench plank 109 Disallow, so to speak 110 Day-care break 111 Compass pt.
Reach Stan Newman at P.O. Box 69, Massapequa Park, Ny 11762, or at www.StanXwords.com
737 3rd street
n
La Costa
hermosa beach, ca 90254
n
tel. (310) 337-7003
n
FaX (310) 337-7625
Mexican Restaurant
16 OZ. MARGARITAS FOR $4.95 MONDAY & TUESDAY AT ALL LOCATIONS FOOD AND DRINK SPECIALS ALL DAY!!!
Open Sunday through Thursday until 9pm, Friday and Saturday until 10pm, Lunch Monday through Saturday 11am to 3pm!
5622 OLEANDER DR, 910.392.6006 • 3617 MARKET ST, 910.772.9000 • 8024 - UNIT 1 MARKET ST, 910.686.8210
www.lacostanc.com encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 43
Nov. 8, 7pm: Twelfth Annex Songwriter Session at the Brooklyn Arts Center, featuring 6 local artists who will be performing original, unplugged music. A&M Red Food Truck and the BAC cash bar; $5 at the door. Doors will open at 7 and the show will start at 8 and end around 10. Show is family friendly and open to all ages! Come out for an evening of local music and entertainment! 516 N. 4th St. NC SYMPHONY: MUSIC OF STAR WARS
Nov. 9, 7:30pm: In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Star Wars universe, the Symphony dedicates a night to the music of John Williams— the most Oscar-nominated composer of all time. Tickets: capefearstage.com. Wilson Center, 703 N. 3rd Street
FAITH IGNITED 2017
Nov. 10, 7pm: Music by Jamie Grace , Darryl Murrill, TimothyDriggers and Mary-Hannah Cashion. UNCW Kenan Auditorium, 601 S. College Rd. www.faithignited.org.
PATRIOTIC MUSIC
Nov. 11, 1pm: Commemorate Veteran’s Day with selections of patriotic music performed by the 208th Army Band out of Concord, NC. The program is free and no reservations are needed. Myrtle Grove Library Manager Patricia Dew is a Staff Sergeant in the 208 Army Reserve and a member of the band. Patricia Dew at pdew@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6391. Northeast Regional Library, NHC,1241 Military Cutoff Rd.
ILM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Nov. 11, William Hueholt, piano; Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 3. Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 “New World.” Award-winning young pianist William Hueholt plays Prokofiev’s dazzling Piano Con-
certo No. 3, followed by one of the most familiar symphonies of all- Dvořák’s “New World.” 910362-7999. Wilson Center, 703 N 3rd St. RUSH HOUR CONCERT
Nov. 14, 6:30pm: Massive Grass has been bringing their unique alternative bluegrass sound to audiences throughout the southeast since 2007. The band features Ken Groce on upright bass, Adam Groce on banjo, Scottie Lynch on guitar, David Abeyta on mandolin, and their newest addition, Abigail Albaugh on fiddle. All original members grew up in the foothills of NC, where bluegrass provided the soundtrack for much of their lives. They’re best known for their high energy, rock-influenced style of ‘grass and creative song-writing, w/three-part harmonies in soulful ballads and waltzes. Kenan Auditorium (UNC Wilmington), 601 S. College Rd. $5-$10. https:// uncw.edu/arts/series/rushhour.html
theatre/auditions SHAKESPEARE BRUNCH
Reserved seating, featuring a greatly abridged reading of one of Shakespeare’s classic plays, served w/brunch and dessert. Portion of proceeds donated to Shakespearean educational outreach programs. 11/19: A Winter’s Tale. www. wilmingtontheatre.com. TheatreNOW, 19 S.10 St.
THE DINING ROOM
Nov. 9-12, 16-19, 8pm; Sun., 3pm: A.R. Gurney’s brilliantly conceived and richly humorous theatrical tour de force (and Off-Broadway success) features six performers portray an array of diverse characters as they delineate the dying
lifestyle of WASPdom, and the now neglected room which was once a vital center of family life. The play is set in the dining room of a typical well to do household, the place where the family assembled daily for breakfast and for dinner and for any and all special occasions. The action is a mosaic of interrelated scenes—some funny, some touching, some rueful. Each vignette introduces a new set of people and events. Dovetailing swiftly and smoothly, the varied scenes coalesce into a theatrical experience of exceptional range, compassionate humor and abundant humanity. $15$22; www.bigdawgproductions.org. Cape Fear Playhouse, 613 Castle St. BILLY WITCH
UNCW Department of Theatre will continue its 2017-18 season with “Billy Witch” by Gregory S. Moss. Coming-of-age story set in a questionable summer camp rich with scary fireside tales, overly enthusiastic camp counselors, and hormonal teens. Off-kilter counselors lead the way on the banks of Lake Misha-Ho-Tonk as campers contend with the humorous onslaught of puberty. Nov. 9-12, 16-19; Thurs.-Sat., 8pm; Sun., 2pm. Mainstage Theatre in the UNCW Cultural Arts Building. Tickets: $6-$15. Kenan Box Office 910-962-3500 or online at http://uncw.edu/arts/boxoffice.html. Tickets can also be bought in person an hour before the show on show dates. Show contains profanity and adult situations. It is recommended for audiences over the age of 14. 5270 Randall Dr.
GOBSMACKED
Nov. 12, 3pm: What happens when you get 7 incredible singers and beatboxers together? Pure, unadulterated magic, that’s what! Gobsmacked! is the next-generation a cappella show that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a song in your heart. The amazing cast of Gobsmacked! will take you on an aural adventure that promises to leave you thrilled and entertained. From doowop to drum and bass, no genre is off-limits in this incredible a cappella journey. Wilson Center, 703 N. 3rd St. Tickets: www.capefearstage.com.
comedy OPEN MIC
The 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) 763-2223 daily after 3pm for details. www.jugglinggypsy.com.
COMEDY BINGO
Brent Blakeney headlines comedy bingo at Dead
Crow, Tuesday nights, 8pm. Free show featuring the best comics from all over the Southeast, all while playing bingo along with the words they say! Win prizes and enjoy discount tacos! Hosted by Louis Bishop with in-booth side kick comedian Lew Morgante. Dead Crow Comedy Club, 265 N. Front St. GRUFF GOAT COMEDY
On the first Wed. ea. month, Gruff Goat Comedy features Three Guest Comics Under a Bridge. No Trolls. Hosted by Blaire Postman. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Lane
DEAD CROW COMEDY ROOM
Nov. ???. Dead Crow Comedy Room. 265 N. Front St. www.deadcrowcomedy.com
PRIMETIME COMEDY
Come see some of North Carolina’s best standup comedians in a world class venue! This month our super talented performers are: 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.
RYAN HIGGINS CROWDWORK
Nov. 11, 8pm: Cute Boys Club presents Ryan Higgins—known as one of the funniest and silliest comedians in North Carolina. He is an amazing improviser and wants to talk to YOU! Come watch Ryan and friends put on one of the best comedy shows you can find. 21+ BYOB. Gravity Records, 612 Castle St.
dance CAPE FEAR CONTRA DANCERS
Come on out for two hours of energetic, contemporary American country dancing with live music by Box of Chocolates band—fiddle, percussion, guitar, dulcimer, bass, mandolin and more! Dress cool & comfortable, soft-soled shoes. All ages welcome. 2nd and 4th Tues, 7:30pm. United Methodist Church, 409 S. 5th Ave.
OVER 50’S DANCE
Nov. 14, 7:30pm: DJ Baby Boomer will be playing his best ballroom, social, and line dance music on Tues., Nov. 14th at the next Over 50’s dance. The dance is being held at the New Hanover Co. Senior Resource Center, 2222 So. College Rd., Wilmington from 7:30-10:pm. Admission is just $8.00 per person plus a finger food or 2 liter soft drink to share. A mixer and line dance segment are part of the evening and will add to the fun. Couples and singles are welcome. Tim Gugan (910-620-8427) or www.overfiftiesdanceclub.org. New Hanover County Senior Resource Center, 2222 College Rd.
BELLY DANCING FOR FUN
Second Skin Vintage
clothing for men & women
615 Castle Street • 910.239.7950 www.secondskinwilmington.com 44 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Nov. 14, 6:30pm: For every day girls who want to shake it and shimmy to exotic belly dancing music. Casual and fun night! Tie on your sarong, big scarf or colorful shawl over your yoga or harem pants and come join me! Donation—pay what you can at the door. HARMONY: A Wellness Center & Yoga, 3504 N. Kerr Ave.
art MEET LOCAL ARTISTS
Meet working artists, and see their works in progress. 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 Willard St.
FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT
Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, Wilmington’s premier after-hours celebration of art and culture, 6-9pm, fourth Friday of ea. month. Features art openings, artist demonstrations, entertainment and refreshments. Administered by the Arts Council of Wilmington & New Hanover County, numerous venues participate. Full list: artscouncilofwilmington.org
PED ART
Pedestrian Art public sculpture series, a program of The Arts Council of Wilmington/NHC, features the installation of 10-12 sculptures throughout downtown Wilmington. 2017 program is made possible through support from the City of Wilmington, The Artworks, Craige & Fox LLC, Art in Bloom Gallery, the Dreams Center for Arts Education, and the Downtown Business Alliance. Amy Grant: grantamyn@gmail.com, 484-885-3037; or Rhonda Bellamy: info@artswilmington.org, 910-343-0998.
Don’t Throw That Old Funiture Away! Go Green & Re-Upholster!
DEATH AND DYING
Expo 216 debuts its second theme: Death & Dying. Come out and be one of the firsts to see installations by local artists, such as S pectrum of Spirits by Joan McLoughlin, Contemplating Transcendence by Niki Hildebrand, and Ghost Trees by Jen Johnson. Many of the artists in the exhibit will be present for the evening. Exhibits, such as The History of Funeral Care and Mourning Practices, provide an educational element. Expo 216, 216 N. Front St.
FIVE TEMPERA PAINTERS
Clarity of form and luminous translucent color are hallmarks of the egg tempera medium, which enjoyed its golden era during the early Renaissance. Relatively small number of contemporary artists still employ this venerable technique, typically in small, jewel-like figurative images. UNCW’s CAB Art Gallery presents “Art from the Egg: Five Tempera Painters” with a public reception 5:30-7pm. Exhibit runs through Nov. 10; open to public, noon-4pm, Mon.-Fri. CAB Art Gallery, Cultural Arts Building, on Reynolds Dr. near Randall Pkwy.
Fast Turn-around Time Let our experts turn your old, drab furniture into exciting new decor.
Ask about our “re-purposed” furniture
Do not despair, we can make the repair... let us fix separation anxiety
CFCC PRINTMAKER’S EXHIBITION
Nov. 9, 5pm: Flytrap Brewing in partnership with the CFCC Fine Arts Department, hosts the opening reception for the 3rd annual CFCC Student Printmakers’ Exhibition. $1 of ea. beer purchased during the opening goes to the arts department. Enjoy the art, along with jazz by Tyler Simmons and Wilmington’s newest food truck, Port City Puffs and Stuff! Led by Ben Billingsley, printmaking students have a separate studio on the ground floor of the new Wilson Center fine arts center, equipped with two printing presses and a photo-exposure unit for silkscreen. Students create black and white woodcut and linocut prints, drypoints and engravings,
It’s the Season of
g n i v Gi
Full Service Shop ~ Insured Award Winning Custom Interiors 910.799.8746 (TRIM) 6609 Windmill Way
Is Your Car Ceiling (Headliner) drooping? WE REMOVE, CLEAN & RECOVER with NEW MATERIAL.
15% DISCOUNT WITH AD • Expires 11/30/17
We are partnering with Good Sheperd to promote a Food and Needs Drive for the many people in our local community who need our help. Bring in non-perishable foods or any items on their greatest needs list (visit www.littledipperfondue.com/wilmington for full list) and
RECEIVE 10% OFF your entree
(regularly priced only, not including promotional items.)
e
ner Serving Din at 5pm, Tue-Sun
BEST OF 2 0 1 7
W I N N E R
Thank you, Wilmington, for choosing us the best place to a first date!us Thank you,asWilmington, forhave choosing
as theEncouraged best place to have a first date! 138 South Front Street • Downtown • Reservations • 910.251.0433 • www.littledipperfondue.com encore |november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 45
collagraphs, and silkscreens. Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.
museums/education CAMERON ART MUSEUM
WE HAVE THE BEST UNCW SELECTION & BEST PRICES IN TOWN!
W W W. K R A Z Y M I K E Z . C O M FREE SHIPPING YEAR ROUND
Exhibits: Created By Light (Through Feb. 11): Exploring the photography collections of eight North Carolina institutions, the exhibition will examine the evolution of photography highlighting the names of the medium; the connections between the institutions and NC artists working in the medium. • State of the Art/Art of the State: (on view through July 8): Focusing on contemporary art by artists currently living in, or native to, the state of North Carolina. Artists bring a single work of art to be installed in the museum, delivering the work within 24‐hour period. No fee. During this timeframe, four curators from North Carolina institutions greet each artist and talk about their work. The design of this project provides any participating artist equal opportunity to meet a significant curator working in the field of contemporary art today. CAM organized with a visual schematic for reference to the over 600 intensely installed artworks. • CAM Café open and serving delicious menu with full bar, 5pm-9pm. Tues.-Sun., 11am2pm; Thurs. nights, 5pm-9pm 910-395-5999. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th 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 year history of WB. (910) 256-2569. 303 W. Salisbury St. www. wbmuseum.com.
WILMINGTON RAILROAD MUSEUM
PRODUCTS WE CARRY • SOUVENIRS • KIDSWEAR • UNCW • SUNGLASSES • GIFTS • FOOTWEAR • ONE TREE HILL
BRANDS WE CARRY • ONE TREE HILL • OLD GUYS RULE • LAID BACK • SEADOG • HEYBO • UNCW
THE BEST CAPE FEAR & WILMINGTON APPAREL Located in the heart of Historic Downtown Wilmington! Check Facebook for specials.
1 N Front St | Wilmington, NC 28401 | (910) 833-5223 46 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
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.
LATIMER HOUSE
Victorian Italiante style home built in 1852, the restored home features period furnishings, artwork and family portraits. Tours offered Mon-Fri, 10am4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12. The Latimer House of the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. Third
CAPE FEAR SERPENTARIUM
World’s most fascinating and dangerous reptiles in beautiful natural habitats, feat. a 12-foot saltwater crocodile, “Bubble Boy” and “Sheena,” a 23-ft long Reticulated Python that can swallow a human being whole! Giant Anaconda weighs 300 lbs, w/15 ft long King Cobras hood up and amaze you. See the Black Mamba, Spitting Cobras, Inland Taipans, Gaboon Vipers, Puff Adders, and more! Over 100 species, some so rare they are not exhibited anywhere else. One of the most
famous reptile collections on earth. Open everyday in summer, 11am-5pm (Sat. till 6 pm); winter schedule, Wed-Sun. 20 Orange St., across from the Historic Downtown Riverwalk, intersecting Front and Water St. 910-762-1669. capefearserpentarium.com. BELLAMY MANSION
One of NC’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 (1821-1907) 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.
BURGWIN WRIGHT HOUSE
18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmington’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. 910-7620570. www.burgwinwrighthouse.com.
CAPE FEAR MUSEUM
See NC through the eyes of Wilmington-born photographer Hugh MacRae Morton (1921-2006). His captivating images will be featured in the traveling exhibit “Photographs by Hugh Morton: An Uncommon Retrospective,” is now open at Cape Fear Museum. The exhibit is on loan from the UNC Library’s North Carolina Collection Photographic Archives and will be on view through September 2018. To create Photographs by Hugh Morton, Stephen Fletcher, photographic archivist at UNC Library’s North Carolina Collection Photographic Archives, selected images from the library’s collection of Morton’s estimated quarter-million negatives and transparencies. Shows experiences as a photojournalist; as a soldier in the Pacific Theater during World War II; and as owner and operator of Grandfather Mountain tourist attraction in Linville. Exhibits more than 50 images feature dozens of his lesser known or unpublished photographs, as well as some classics. Will feature brochures, postcards and prints. CF Museum, 814 Market St.
EXPO 216
Newly opened exhibit features end-of-life issues. Enter Grandma’s House and address the elephant in the room. Pick up an advance directive. Review the History of Hospice . Contemplate individual responses of compassion in the Arena. Wed.-Sun., noon-6pm, 216 N Front St, www.expo216.com
kids stuff SUPER SATURDAY FUN TIME
Appropriate for ages 4-10, but all ages welcome. Dock the Dog and Dock Street Kids for 10 exciting episodes of Super Saturday Fun Time, 3pm, TheatreNOW’s live theatrical show featuring local history and mystery and super guest stars, hosted by Captain Coy T. Plunkett (Zach Hanner). Live music, games, cartoons, short films, and his favorite surf “nuggets.” Dock Street Kids and their alwayshungry dog, Dock, solve adventures. Parents drop off kids ages 5+. Kid-friendly snacks and drinks available for purchase. Custom birthday packages with a chance to interact with characters and step onstage in the action. Shows: Christmas, Dec. 16. 19 S. 10th St.
SATURDAY STORY HOUR
Miss Shannon will lead interactive story hours for kids ages 3-6 on the first and third Saturdays of May at the Main Library in downtown Wilmington. Saturday Story Hour is free and no pre-registration is needed. Opens with a picture book and end with a project or activity at the end, and include time to play, learn, and laugh in between. Each child should bring a participating adult. Shannon Vaughn: 910-798-6303. svaughn@nhcgov.com. 201 Chestnut St.
FRENCH PLAYGROUP
Thurs., 10am: Chantez! Jouez! Rencontrez des nouveaux amis! Sing, play, and meet new friends at French Playgroup at the main library! Informal hour where young kids and parents/caregivers can hear and try out some French words. Free and no advance registration is needed. Main Library Children’s Room at 910-798-6303 or sdemarco@nhcgov.com. NHC Main Library, 201 Chestnut St.
MUSEUM EXPLORERS
11am: 1st program; 2pm: 2nd program, Sat. Free for members or with general admission. Ignite your curiosity! Discover history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear through interactive science investigations, hands-on exploration and unique artifacts. Our activities are designed to stimulate curiosity and encourage families to have fun together. Themes vary. Ideal for ages 5 and up. Appx. 45 minutes each time slot. Adult participation is rqd. CF Museum, 814 Market St.
DISCOVERY LAB
Sun., 2:30–4pm: Free for members or with GA. Investigate, experiment, and explore! In the Discovery Lab, the whole family can drop-in for fun,
quick experiments and hands-on investigations. Themes vary. Ideal for ages 5 and up. Adult participation is rqd. CF Museum, 814 Market St. STORY EXPLORERS
Cameron Art Museum, every Thurs., 10-10:30am: Admission by donation. Bring your infant, toddler or preschooler for story time, gallery exploration and an art project! georgia@cameronartmuseum. org for more info. 3201 S. 17th St.
LITTLE EXPLORERS
Thurs. and Sat., 10am: Meet your friends in Museum Park for fun hands-on activities! Enjoy interactive circle time, conduct exciting experiments, and play games related to a weekly theme. Perfect for children ages 3 to 6 and their adult helpers every Friday. Free! Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.
LEGO BUILD
Nov. 8, 3:30pm: Ready, Set, Build! Kids ages 5-12 invited to create their own Lego version of the theme of the day. This activity is free but space is limited, so registration is required, on the library’s calendar at http://libcal.nhclibrary.org/ event/3322511 or 910-798-6385. Pleasure Island Library contact Meaghan Weiner: mweiner@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.
TEEN TABLETOP GAMING
Nov. 9, 4pm: Tabletop games have gone far beyond Monopoly and rainy-day Scrabble. Teens are invited to learn new board games that will test their wits, their bluffing ability, and their ability to size up the competition. This new activity for teens will happen once a month. It’s free and no reservations are needed. Pamela Penza, ppen-
Stardust
T
za@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. VETERAN’S DAY CAMP: SCHOOL’S OUT
Nov. 10, 8am: Come out to Coastal Athletics for All Skills Camp! Ages 7-12 welcome! Baseball, Softball, and Lacrosse. Price is $40 for those staying from 8am-noon. Extend your stayto 4:30pm for $20! Register: (910)-452-5838 or www.coastalathletics.net. Coastal Athletics, 2049 Corporate Dr. S.
outdoors/recreation BLACKWATER ADVENTURE CRUISE
Two-hour cruise up the Northeast Cape Fear River, still largely unchanged and underpopulated as it was when Wilmington was colonized in the late 1600’s. Cruising through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the Bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation. A narrated cruise based of the history and ecology of the area. 910-338-3134. Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S. Water St.
HARBOR CRUISE
Weds, 3pm: Set sail on the Shamrock for a cruise around Wrightsville Beach’s Harbor Island—the island which separates the barrier island of the beach proper from the mainland. Locations of historical, ecological and cultural note will be featured. Learn what year the first buildings on Wrightsville Beach were built. Additionally, learn about the different types of marsh grasses, shorebirds, and fish we have teeming in the water surrounding the beach. RSVP rqd. $15-$25. WB Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd.
BLACK RIVER NATURE CRUISE
Sightseeing for four hours on the Black River w/ scenic wilderness, narration on the plant and wildlife, and a river that appears almost as it did to the early explorers! Families, nature enthusiasts and photographers alike will enjoy the slow-moving, amber-colored waters, framed by spectacular swamp forests highlighted with seasonal wildflowers and relict old-growth cypress trees.Led by Capt. J.N. Maffitt w/narrator Andy Wood, coastal ecologist and author. Pack snacks, lunch, and drinks, or purchase a meal from Anne Bonny’s Bar & Grill at our barge before the tour. $40-$50: http://cfrboats.com/cruises/#blackriver. Foot of Water/Dock sts.
PRESCHOOL MATH AND SCIENCE
Play, learn and explore math and science concepts at this interactive storytime, which includes hand-on science experiments and exploration stations. Designed for children ages 3 to 6, and each child must be accompanied by an adult. Presented at Cape Fear Museum by the New Hanover County Ready to Read Library Outreach Ladies, Raquel Fava and Krista Dean. Free, limited and preregistration is required on New Hanover County Public Library’s calendar at www. nhclibrary.org. Introducing young kids to the STEM skills they will need to succeed in a 21st century world; Raquel Fava (rfava@nhcgov.com) or Krista Dean (kdean@nhcgov.com) at 910-7986368. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St.
NC BIRDING TRAIL
Each month we will explore a different site along the NC Birding Trail in the Coastal Plain. Each hike will be appx 2 miles. Transportation from Halyburton Park included. Greenfield LakeNThurs 11/9,
Picture This
an art show celebrating the cerebral, celestial, magical, and ethereal art work of local and regional artists CALLING ALL ARTISTS: We want to see your interpretation of “Stardust,” for Bottega Wine and Art Gallery’s holiday
exhibition, Dec. 6-Jan. 31. Official holiday reception on Dec. 8; closing reception: Jan. 25. Open to all media—painting, drawing, sculpture, performance art, video installation, photography, etc. Email hi-res jpg of the work or link to video submission to shea@encorepub.com by Nov. 15 for consideration. Work will be chosen by Nov. 21 and will be dropped off to Bottega (723 N. Fourth St.) on Nov. 27 to hang for exhibition. Up to 40 overall submissions will hang; top 8 will be featured in encore’s Dec. 6 edition.
Fifteen percent of sales from art sold will benefit DREAMS of Wilmington. encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 47
I
JET NOISE Need a cool gift for a loved one, or just want to “treat yourself”.... grab an ‘I Jet Noise’ T-shirt today! www.visitgoldsboronc.com
48 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
8am-noon; ages: 16 and up. Wrightsville Beach Thurs 12/21, 8am-noon; ages: 16 and up. Halyburton Park, 4099. S. 17th St.
classes ART CLASSES
Lois DeWitt art classes, $100/4 (two-hour). Meditative Drawing: Wed., 10am and 2pm. • Thurs. and Fri, 5pm: Art it up—Nice and Easy! • Sat. 10am: Learn how to pour color shapes and define them with drawing. • Mon, 10am: Stamp or Stencil Painting. • Beginning or advanced students. • Tues, 10am and 2pm: Colored Pencil with Oil Pastel Layering. All materials provided. www.freeonline-art-classes.com (click on Wilmington Art Classes). 910-547-8115 or loislight@bellsouth.net
PAPERMAKING CLASSES
Wed., 6pm: Adults explore different papermaking techniques so you can make each sheet of paper unique. All materials included, but we encourage bringing in some of your own materials that you can include into your paper—such as flat mementos and plants. See samples on our Facebook and website. Adult and children classes held on Sat., 2pm. Sign up: www.alunaworks.com. Aluna Works, 603 Castle St.
POWER YOGA
Join us for power yoga on Sundays at Capt’n Bill’s, 3pm. Drop in fee of $8. Bring your own mat. 4240 Market Street
PAINT AND PALATE
Sat., Nov. 11, 2-4pm. Join us for a fun, 2-hr. instructional, seasonal inspired acrylic painting class! Beginners to advanced/$50 includes all painting supplies and a buffet lunch at “Smoke on the Water.” Class size is limited & advanced registration is required. For information please contact: Maureen McKenna at Simplestrokesart@gmail. com and for registration contact: Brook Carpenter at events@smokeonthewater.com. 3704 Watercraft Ferry Ave. (in the RiverLights development).
CONNECTING WITH EXPECTING
Nov. 10, 5pm-9:30pm; Nov. 11, 8am-noon and 1-6pm; Nov. 12, 8am-noon and 1-4pm: Guest teacher Nikole Gabrielli, doula and certified pro midwife, and Longwave Yoga’s own Lexi Hawks leads Connecting with Expecting! Weekend workshop for yoga teachers, doulas, midwives, and anyone interested in gaining an education and deep understanding of the unique and special world of the maternal feminine. http://bit. ly/2fApCoV. Longwave Yoga, 203 Racine Drive #200
THAT FACE YOU MAKE
Nov. 11, 2pm: Begins w/10 minute meditation guided by Jenny Yarborough of White Rabbit Trips and moves on to a mixed-media art class with Nathan Ryan Verwey of The Revolution Awaits whose work can be seen in numerous galleries, on buildings, in the streets and has been featured on the cover of encore. No prior meditation or art experience necessary. All you need is an open mind. So bring that pretty little face you make and let’s create. Participants will leave with a 18x24” unique work of art. www.whitehrabbittrips.com. Terra Sol Sanctuary, 507 Castle St.
PAINT AND PALATE
Nov. 11, 2-4pm: 2 hour instructional, seasonal inspired acrylic painting class! Beginners to advanced. $50 includes all painting supplies and a buffet lunch at Smoke on the Water, 3704 Watercraft Ferry Ave (in the RiverLights development). Class size is limited and advanced registration is required. Maureen McKenna at Simplestroke-
sart@gmail.com. Reg. contact: Brook Carpenter at events@smokeonthewater.com. BOARD IN THE LIBRARY
Nov. 13, 3:30pm: Try out a variety of board games at Northeast Library’s monthly family gaming night. A new game or two will be featured at each meeting. Free and fun for all ages. No registration required. Northeast Library Manager Leigh Thomas at lethomas@nhcgov.com or 910-798-6371. Northeast Regional Library, NHC, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.
lectures/literary BEGIN THE CONVERSATION CLINICS
Lower Cape Fear Hospice will host free Begin the Conversation clinics from 10-11 a.m. the third Fri. of ea. mo., Phillips LifeCare & Counseling Center, 1414 Physicians Dr. Free, 18 and older, will provide attendees information and resources to think about and plan for future healthcare decisions. Attendees will receive specific strategies for initiating conversations that can significantly reduce family stress and improve quality of care. Advance directives supplied so healthcare instructions can be legally documented. Jason: 910-796-7943. jason. clamme@lcfh.org.
BOOK CLUB
Join a different kind of book club! This weekly meeting offers book lovers a chance to meet and compare notes about favorite books and authors. Attendance is free and advance registration is not needed, just drop in! Librarian Teresa Bishop at tbishop@nhcgov.com/910-798-6385. NHC Pleasure Island Library, 1401 N. Lake Blvd.
WHY SCIENCE?
Nov. 8, 6pm: Each year faculty members draw upon scholarship in the areas of the Arts, Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences to provide meaningful lectures and discussions. Community engagement is one of the University’s highest priorities, and this lecture series fosters dialogue and the exchange of ideas between UNCW faculty and Cape Fear area residents. Each event includes an hour long discussion and a Q&A session. RSVPs NOT required (general admission seating); parking is available in Eaton Plaza. Open to all. www. uncw.edu/cas/uncwednesdays.html. UNCW James Hall, 601 S. College Rd.
DR. MELTON MCLAURIN
Join us in the Bellamy Formal Parlor for an intriguing lecture by Dr. Melton McLaurin, a former UNCW professor of history, who will talk about “Why the South Never Had a Chance to Win the Civil War.” Free and open to the public. Reservations are not required. Donations are greatly appreciated and benefit the Bellamy Museum’s educational programming. Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market St.
ATLANTIS MAGAZINE RELEASE PARTY
Nov. 10, 6:30pm: Atlantis Magazine, UNCW’s Creative Magazine, for the release of Issue 76 at Lucky Joe’s (1414 S. College Rd. Unit A, Wilmington NC 28403). Enjoy live music, live readings from the magazine, food and drinks. Lucky Joe Coffee, 1414 S. College Rd.
clubs/notices \WILMINGTON FENCING CLUB
Adults meet Tues/Thurs, 7:45-9pm, and Youth meet Wed, 6:45-7:45pm. Class is open to the community, beginners welcome, and all equipment is provided! Sessions are 6 weeks long and
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 49
HOLIDAY WINE TASTING Nov. 19th - 3pm Great way to spend a Sunday afternoon on the water. Come on board and taste your way thru some fine wines that will get you in the mood for the upcoming holidays. e
BEST OF 2 0 1 7
W I N N E R
By Land and Water Combo Ticket Bellamy Mansion Museum and Wilmington Water Tours
Visit two of Wilmington’s favorite attractions with one discounted ticket! Your “By Land and Water” combo ticket includes admission to the Bellamy Mansion Museum and a 50-minute Eagles Island Cruise. All for one low price of $18. Tickets are good for one week from date of purchase and may be purchased at either of the sites.
Daily Cruises & Private Charters For a complete list of scheduled Tours, Excursions, and Fees, visit
wilmingtonwatertours.net HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE
Visit us on the Riverwalk! 212 S. Water Street
910-338-3134
info@wilmingtonwt.com
Follow BAR ON BOARD WITH us ALL ABC PERMITS
50 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
Author Ellen Elizabeth Hunter’s Murder Mystery Series are back We have Author, Ellen Elizabeth Hunter’s, Murder Mystery Series back and stocked in our shop, Murder On The Ghost Walk. If you like history, antebellum mansions, Southern hospitality and unsolved mysteries based in Wilmington then you’ll love Ellen’s books.
the cost is just $5 per class! Fencing incorporates agility, strength, coordination, balance, and timing. In fencing, physical ability is just as important as having a strong mental edge. Competitors of a fencing match wear protective gear including a jacket, glove, and head gear. Sport of fencing features three different levels, which are categorized by the type of weapon used in each level. The weapons used include the epee, foil, and the saber. Fencing is an aerobically challenging sport. In order to condition oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body, initial fencing training consists of challenging conditioning exercises. Express YMCA, 11 S. Kerr Ave. NHC HAZWAGON
New Hanover County encourages residents to safely dispose of toxic materials with its new mobile collection unit, the HazWagon. stationed various days at three different locations in New Hanover County to collect household hazardous waste and electronics free of charge. Residents can bring items to the following locations each week: Mon., 10am-2pm, at Ogden Park ball fields; Wed., 10am-2pm at Wrightsville Beach Municipal Complex in the Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Market field by the recycle center; Fridays at Carolina Beach Mike Chappell Park (in south side of the park across from the tennis courts), 10am-2pm.
CHRISTIAN MYSTICISM
We explore God using the methods and guidance of Moses, Jesus, the prophets and a rich sampling of delightful saints including Theresa of Avila, Meister Eckhart and Thomas Aquinas. We will meet twice a month for fellowship, poetry, instruction in spiritual practices, group meditations and playful spiritual fun. First and third Sundays of each month, 2pm. Parking on 15th St. Respond to me, John Evans, at insightbuilders@gmail.com. Morning Glory Coffeehouse, 1415 Dawson St.
ST. PAULâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S
Fourth Wed. of every month at 5:30 p.m. for TaizĂŠ, an ecumenical sung and silent participatory prayer service designed to achieve a contemplative state through music, song, and silence. Midweek Holy Eucharist: Every Wed. at 12:10 p.m. for Holy Eucharist followed by community lunch (suggested donation, $5). Choral Evenson every second Wed., followed by supper and Christian Formation discussion. Evensong is a sung service of evening prayer, psalms, canticles, and scripture readings. Ancient part of the Anglican tradition, ever renewing the soul. Sung by Choir of St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. spechurch.com. 910-762-4578. St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Episcopal Church, 16 N. 16th St.
COWORX GRAND OPENING
Nov. 9, 5pm: Grand opening of Wilmingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier coworking space! Located in The Cargo District and hosted by Coworx + SIS Digital. Open to the public, 5-8pm. Official ribbon-cutting ceremony, delicious food options provided by Vittles & Soulful Twist Food Trucks, live music perfor-
mances by Jenny Pearson and Stray Local, a fun photo booth provided by the Little Green Booth, and plenty of craft beer and wine. Coworx is offering a free day pass to anyone who would like to stop by and try the space out during the day of the party. Pop in anytime between 9am-5pm, testdrive a seat, meet our awesome members and get some work done before the celebration starts at 5pm. 1608 Queen St.
culinary
RESPON SI BLE I T SO L UT IO NS
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, sample, and trade their creations: an evening of beer and an open stage. PA and equipment provided. All genres and beer styles. 4pm, free. www.fermental.net. 910-8210362. 7250 Market St.
RIVERFRONT FARMERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MARKET
Sat, 8am-1pm: An open-air market in historic downtown Wilmington, NC along the banks of the Cape Fear River. Featuring local growers and producers selling vegetables, fruits, baked goods, seafood, honey, meats, eggs, plants, NC wines, pickled products, goat cheese, cut flower bouquets, dog treats, herbs and more. Artisan works of pottery, jewelry, woodwork, silk screened clothing, home dĂŠcor, leather goods, all-natural bath, body & home products. www.riverfrontfarmersmarket.org. 5 N. Water St.
&HUWLĂ&#x20AC;HG $SSOH DQG :LQGRZV 6XSSRUW 5HSDLU 3URPSW 3URIHVVLRQDO &RXUWHRXV 6HUYLFH 'DWD 5HFRYHU\ Â&#x2021;9LUXV 5HPRYDO Â&#x2021;:LĂ&#x20AC; 6HFXULW\ %XVLQHVV RU 5HVLGHQWLDO Â&#x2021; 2Q VLWH 6HUYLFH Â&#x2021; 5HIHUHQFHV
Call us at 910.392.0078 www.Computer-Medics.biz help@Computer-Medics.biz
POPLAR GROVE FARMERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MARKET
On the front lawn every Wed., 8am, at Poplar Grove Plantation. One of the special qualities of a farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market is the interaction with the farmers growing and producing fresh produce, landscaping & bedding plants, or meeting herbalists growing herbs and mixing scented salves and oils, bakers creating homemade cookies and desserts, and artisans making handmade soaps, cutting boards, jewelry, and accessories for home, hearth and garden. Locally prepared foods and drinks will keep you satisfied while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here, and make an easy lunch or dinner when you leave. Vendors vary somewhat weekly. 10200 US Highway 17.
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 our brewers and get two free samples.
PORT CITY FARMERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MARKET
Tues., 5pm: Join us for a wonderful, exciting night of fun. Port City Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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
We have issues....
get them every Wednesday
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 51
art.Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry Ln.
tours 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 St. 249 N. Front St. www.brownpapertickets. com/event/1282390
ARCHITECTURE OF HENRY BONITZ
Lower Cape Fear Historical Society’s walking tour on the career of Wilmington architect Henry Bonitz (1871-1921). Learn about Henry’s German-immigrant parents and his early studies under notable Wilmington architect James F. Post. The tour will explore the architecture of the buildings Bonitz designed, including the Woolvin-Warren House (1895), J. H. Strauss Store (1914), and Ahrens Building (1907). Free for LCFHS members, $12/ adult, $10 AAA members/military, $6/student. Tour begins and concludes at the Latimer House Museum. Lower CF Historical Society, 126 S. 3rd St.
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.
INSIDER’S TOUR
Explore the history of your 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-registration is required: 910-798-4362 or cfmprograms@nhcgov.com. Free w/general admission or membership. Cape Fear Museum, 814 Market St. HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE TOURS
Narrated horse drawn carriage and trolley tours of historic Wilmington feature a costumed driver who narrates a unique adventure along the riverfront and past stately mansions. Market and Water sts. $12/adult, $5/child. (910) 251-8889. www.horsedrawntours.com
GHOST WALK
6:30 & 8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted Wilmington. Nightly tours at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. Admission charge. Water & Market sts. RSVP rqd: 910794-1866. hauntedwilmington.com
HISTORY WALKING TOUR
A two-hour exploration of downtown Wilmington with author Dan Camacho! Suggested $10 donation. Takes place Fridays, 10am. www.bellamymansion.org or email info@bellamymansion.org with any questions. Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market St.
BELLAMY MANSION
Guided tours start on the hour, as well as selfguided tours, which start at any time. Mondays is only self-guided stours.* Follow curved oystershell paths through our lush Victorian garden shaded by 150-year-old magnolia trees. Climb the stairs to the elegant main entrance surrounded by soaring columns and gleaming windows. Hear the stories of the Bellamy family, as well as those of the free and enslaved black artisans who built
the home and crafted intricate details throughout the house. Know that you are walking through history. Bellamy Mansion Museum, one of NCs most spectacular examples of Antebellum architecture. Adults $12; senior and military discount, $10; students, $6; children under 5, free. Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market St.
support groups WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP
Middle school and high-school students: Wilmington Pride and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation have joined together to create and facilitate a youth group for children/youth (middle school and high school) who are LGBTQIA, plus straight allies. A safe space for kids to talk about orientation, gender, racial equality, political consequences, religion, self harm and self-care. Needed: youth facilitators, especially those who are trained to work with kids, and speakers to talk about important topics. Meets Thurs., 7:30pm, UU Congregation of Wilmington, 4313 Lake Ave, (across from Roland Grise Middle School). Sue Graffius: dre@ uufwilmington.org).
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
Life Community Church, located inside Independence Mall, will have a recovery meeting every Monday evening at 6:30 pm starting with fellowship followed by a large group meeting at 7pm. Support groups for men and women follow at 8 pm. The meeting is in the Extension located across from Branches bookstore and the church auditorium. Jodie: 910-547-8973, 791-3859 or Lifecc.com. 3500 Oleander Dr.
EXPECTING MAMA’S CIRCLE
Sat, noon: Chat with other pregnant mamas who are going through the same thing as you! Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Breastfeeding USA counselor, and Postpartum Doula, Jess Zeffiro will moderate a free Pregnancy Meetup Group. Expectant mothers are invited to pop into the group at any time to share their stories, ask questions, and connect with great area resources. Share stories and have any pregnancy and birth related questions answered in a supportive environment. The Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave.
TEEN TRANSGENDER SUPPORT GROUP
Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Support Group, free, facilitated by TR Nunley and Jamie Alper. This group will focus on the mental health needs unique to transgender and gender non-conforming adolescents (13 years old -18 years old). Topics covered will include but are not limited to: understanding one’s own gender, bullying, discrimination, and violence, family dynamics, coming out, being misgendered, handling invasive personal questions from others, safety and safe spaces, anxiety and mood stability. Nova Swanstrom first at (910) 442-8480 x3009 with Delta Behavioral Clinic.
CHADD
Wilmington Area CHADD meets on the 2nd Monday of every month from 7-9pm at the Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B. This free support group is open to a growing group of parents, grandparents and individuals affected by AD/HD who understand what it takes to face its daily challenges. Free. Pine Valley United Methodist Church 3788 Shipyard Blvd., bldg B. WilmingtonCHADD.org
Call Today (910) 859-4615
Brooklyn Arts Center
52 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
TRANSGENDER SUPPORT GROUP
o Facilitated by licensed therapists in a private and e safe location. Four free monthly support groups A for parents and family, children and teens, young l adults, and older adults. All are phone screened for safety. Group info given at the time of the p screening. Please contact Nova Swanstrom MA, , LPA for more information. (910) 343-6890 x3009 e LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP d Meets third Saturday each month. Free; drop-ins . 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 d support positive coping strategies, and emphal size the importance of medical treatment. Guest r speakers, DVD presentations and open group 8 discussion. info@lupusnc.org or at 877-849-8271, t ext. 1. www.lupusnc.org. Northeast Regional Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd. - CHADD g Wilmington Area CHADD meets on the 2nd Mony day of every month from 7-9pm at the Pine Valley a United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd., Building B. This free support group is open to a growing group of parents, grandparents and individuals affected by AD/HD who understand what it takes to face its daily challenges. Free. Pine Valley United Methodist Church 3788 Shipyard Blvd., bldg B. WilmingtonCHADD.org
y , a PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Thurs., 6pm: Meets in Classroom C, Ground t Floor. Men and spouses welcome. Discussion/ programs. www.wilmingtonprostatecancersup, portgroup.com. 910-792-9953. LA LECHE LEAGUE
Sat., 10am, meetings are informal and open to pregnant women, mothers, babies and children. If you have questions or just would like to meet other breastfeeding mothers, this is the meeting for you. La Leche League Leaders are experienced mothers who have breastfed their own babies and who have been trained and accredited by La Leche League International to help mothers and mothersto-be with all aspects of breastfeeding. Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave.
BIRTH CIRCLE
Every 3rd Sat. come for our Birth Circle, something always different every month. Check out website for more details of what we have in store this month & exact time of each event! www.thebumpandbeyond.com. Bump & Beyond, 890-3 S. Kerr Ave.
who have died. 2. Imagine having conversations with your guardian angel or spirit guide. 3. Make a deal with a “partner in loneliness”: a person you pray or Adriana Martinez and Octavio Guillen got engaged to be married when sing with whenever either of you feels bereft. 4. Write messages to your Future they were both 15 years old. But they kept delaying a more complete Self or Past Self. 5. Communicate with animals. unification for 67 years. At last, when they were 82, they celebrated their wedding and pledged their vows to each other. Are there comparable situ- LIBRA (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) ations in your life, Aries? The coming months will be a favorable time to The drive for absolute perfection could undermine your ability to create what’s make deeper commitments. At least some of your reasons for harboring very good and just right. Please don’t make that mistake in the coming weeks. ambivalence will become irrelevant. You’ll grow in your ability to thrive on Likewise, refrain from demanding utter purity, pristine precision, or immaculate the creative challenges that come from intriguing collaborations and highly virtue. To learn the lessons you need to know and launch the trends you can focused togetherness. capitalize on in 2018, all that’s necessary is to give your best. You don’t have to hit the bull’s eye with every arrow you shoot—or even “any” arrow you shoot. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Simply hitting the target will be fine in the early going. I had pimples when I was a teenager. They’re gone now, although I still have a few pockmarks on my face as souvenirs. In retrospect, I feel grati- SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) tude for them. They ensured that in my early years of dating and seeking Remember the time, all those years ago, when the angels appeared to you on romance, I would never be able to attract women solely on the basis of the playground and showed you how and why to kiss the sky? I predict that a my physical appearance. I was compelled to cultivate a wide variety of comparable visitation will arrive soon. And do you recall the dreamy sequence masculine wiles. I swear that at least half of my motivation to get smarter in adolescence when you first plumbed the sublime mysteries of sex? You’re as and become a good listener came from my desire for love. Do you have ripe as you were then, primed to unlock more of nature’s wild secrets. Maybe at comparable stories to tell, Taurus? Now is an excellent time to give thanks no other time in many years, in fact, have you been in quite so favorable a posifor what once may have seemed to be a liability or problem. tion to explore paradise right here on earth.
ARIES (Mar. 21–April 20)
GEMINI (May 21-June 20)
The next two weeks will be one of the best times ever to ask provocative, probing questions. In fact, I invite you to be as curious and receptive as you’ve been since you were four years old. When you talk with people, express curiosity more often than you make assertions. Be focused on finding out what you’ve been missing, what you’ve been numb to. When you wake up each morning, use a felt-tip marker to draw a question mark on your forearm. To get you in the mood for this fun project, here are sample queries from poet Pablo Neruda’s “Book of Questions”: “Who ordered me to tear down the doors of my own pride? Did I finally find myself in the place where they lost me? Whom can I ask what I came to make happen in this world? Is it true our desires must be watered with dew? What did the rubies say standing before the juice of the pomegranates?”
CANCER (June 21-July 22)
First Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.
As a courtesy to your mental health, I minimize your exposure to meaningless trivia. In fact, I generally try to keep you focused instead on enlightening explorations. But in this horoscope, in accordance with astrological omens, I’m giving you a temporary, short-term license to go slumming. What shenanigans is your ex up to lately, anyway? Would your old friend the bankrupt coke addict like to party with you? Just for laughs, should you revisit the dead-end fantasy that always makes you crazy? There is a good possibility that exposing yourself to bad influences like those I just named could have a tonic effect on you, Sagittarius. You might get so thoroughly disgusted by them that you’ll never again allow them to corrupt your devotion to the righteous groove, to the path with heart.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
In the coming months it will be crucial to carefully monitor the effects you’re having on the world. Your personal actions will rarely be merely personal; they may have consequences for people you don’t know as well as those you’re close to. The ripples you send out in all directions won’t always look dramatic, but you shouldn’t let that delude you about the influence you’re having. If I had to give 2018 a title with you in mind, it might be “The Year of Maximum Social Impact.” And it all starts soon.
“Things to say when in love,” according to Zimbabwe poet Tapiwa Mugabe: “I will put the galaxy in your hair. Your kisses are a mouthful of firewater. I have never seen a more beautiful horizon than when you close your eyes. I have never seen a more beautiful dawn than when you open your eyes.” I hope these words inspire you to improvise further outpourings of adoration. You’re in a phase when expressing your sweet reverence and tender respect for the people you care about will boost you physical health, your AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) The punk ethic is rebellious. It transgresses conventional wisdom through “a emotional wealth, and your spiritual resiience. cynical absurdity that’s redeemed by being hilarious.” So says author Brian LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Doherty. In the hippie approach, on the other hand, the prevailing belief is Are you working on solving the right problem? Or are you being dis- “love is all you need.” It seeks a “manic togetherness and all-encompassing tracted by a lesser dilemma, perhaps consumed in dealing with an issue acceptance that are all sweet and no sour -- inspiring but also soft and gelatithat’s mostly irrelevant to your long-term goals? I honestly don’t know the nous.” Ah, but what happens when punk and hippie merge? Doherty says that answers to those questions, but I am quite sure it’s important that you each moderates the extreme of the other, yielding a tough-minded lust for life meditate on them. Everything good that can unfold for you in 2018 will that’s both skeptical and celebratory. I bring this to your attention, Aquarius, require you to focus on what matters most -- and not get sidetracked by because the punk-plus-hippie blend is a perfect attitude for you to cultivate in peripheral issues or vague wishes. Now is an excellent time to set your the coming weeks. unshakable intentions.
tors syndiCate PFLAG
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Every one of us experiences loneliness. We all go through periods when we feel isolated and misunderstood and unappreciated. That’s the bad news, Virgo. The good news is that the coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to make loneliness less of a problem. I urge you to brainstorm and meditate about how to do that. Here are some crazy ideas to get you started. 1. Nurture ongoing connections with the spirits of beloved people
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)
I’m falling in love with the way you have been falling in love with exciting possibilities that you once thought were impossible. Oh, baby. Please go further. Thrilling chills surge through me whenever you get that ravenous glint in your mind’s eye. I can almost hear you thinking, “Maybe those dreams aren’t so impossible, after all. Maybe I can heal myself and change myself enough to pursue them in earnest. Maybe I can learn success strategies that were previously beyond my power to imagine.”
encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 53
Island Passage Elixir • 4 Market Street • 910.762.0484 Island Passage Lumina Station • 1900 Eastwood Rd. • 910.256.0407 Return Passage • 302 N. Front Street • 910.343.1627 54 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com
CORKBOARD Available for your next CD or Demo
KAREN KANE MUSIC PRODUCTIONS 33 year veteran Producer/Engineer
NEW
CANNABIS HYPNOTHERAPY NOW AVAILABLE! CALL: 910-343-1171 Find Out What All the Buzz is About!
SATISFY ALL YOUR CRAVINGS
Dreaming Of A Career In The Music Industry?
with our huge menu that has over 70 food items Including our famous $6.99 Lunches & $8.99 Dinners
Classes offered in Jan., Apr. and Sept.
Front Street Brewery 910.251.1935 9 North Front Street, Downtown Wilmington FrontStreetBrewery.com
200 album credits
AUDIO ENGINEERING CLASSES Music Recording, Mixing, Pro Tools, Studio Production
(910) 681-0220 or mixmama.com Want To Get The Word Out About Your Business...
ADVERTISE ON THE
CORKBOARD
4WEEKS - ONLY $100 Call 791-0688 For Details
CUSTOM TILE
Fresh From the Farm The Riverfront Farmers Market is a curbside market featuring local farmers, producers, artists & crafters. BACK ON WATER STREET FOR 2017
DOWNTOWN - Each Saturday April 15 - Nov. 18 • 8:00am - 1:00pm (no market Oct. 7, due to Riverfest)
Installation & Repairs
•Kitchens •Bathrooms •Entryways •Fireplaces •And More
e
Free Estimates
910-616-0470
- FRUITS - VEGETABLES - PLANTS - HERBS
- FLOWERS - EGGS - CHEESES - WINE
- PICKLES - KOMBUCHA - ART & CRAFTS
BEST OF 2 0 1 7
W I N N E R
- MEATS - SEAFOOD - HONEY - BAKED GOODS
For more information call (910) 538-6223 www.riverfrontfarmersmarket.org
encore encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com 55
S unday , n ovember 12 â&#x20AC;˘ 3:00 pm Ticket Central 910.362.7999 www.CapeFearStage.com 56 encore | november 8 - november 14, 2017 | www.encorepub.com