360 December 10, 2015

Wayne Hayton

JP Falcon

Fabulous Roof Shakers

Skagit Symphony Wes Jones Band

Rafael Tranquilino

Lots of music in the area this weekend Pages 8-9 Skagit Valley Herald Thursday December 10, 2015

Hot Tickets

MOVIES Harrison Ford promises older, wiser Solo in ‘Force Awakens’ PAGE 12

Janet Jackson, January 13, KeyArena in Seattle PAGE 7

MOVIE REVIEW ‘The Big Short’ will make you laugh, make you furious PAGE 14

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, December 10, 2015

YOUR ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION GUIDE TO WHAT’S GOING ON IN SKAGIT COUNTY AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

Movie Review / Page 14

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SUBMISSIONS Email features@skagitpublishing.com Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday for the following Thursday edition Phone 360-416-2135 Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274 Mailing address P.O. Box 578 Mount Vernon, WA 98273

Out & About.....................................4-5 Travel .................................................. 6 Hot Tickets.......................................... 7 On Stage, Tuning Up........................8-9 New on DVD..................................... 11 At the Lincoln.................................... 13 Music Reviews................................... 15

Online events calendar To list your event on our website, visit goskagit.com and look for the Events Calendar on the home page HAVE A STORY IDEA? Contact Features Editor Craig Parrish at 360-416-2135 or features@skagitpublishing.com TO ADVERTISE 360-424-3251

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 10, 2015 - E3

THIS WEEKENDin the area FRIENDS OF THE FOREST HIKES Join the Friends of the Forest for scenic hikes in the forest lands around Anacortes. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.

No pets. Free. For information, call 360-293-3725 or visit friendsoftheacfl.org.

Next up: n Senior/Adult Hike: Whistle Lake: 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Dec. 11. Meet at the Whistle Lake parking lot at the end of Whistle Lake Road. Enjoy the hush of the forest during the season of recharge.

COMMUNITY BAZAAR/CHILDREN'S CRAFT FAIR

The Imagine Concrete Foundation's second annual Community Bazaar and Children's Craft Fair will be held from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Concrete Elementary School gym, 7838 S. Superior Ave., Concrete. The event will feature pictures with Santa, holiday treats and gifts, free gift wrapping, holiday family photo shoots, food and more. 360-770-2836.

WINTER WALTZ

The Mount Vernon High School Orchestra’s Winter Waltz will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, in the school cafeteria, 314 N. Ninth St.,

Mount Vernon. Enjoy dancing to live music.

Free professional dance lessons will be available.

Admission: $5. 360-428-6100.

ULTIMATE CHEAPSKATE

Jeff Yeager, who bills himself as “The Ultimate Cheapskate,” will give a free presentation at 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 11, at the Stanwood/ Camano Resource Center at 9612 271st St. NW, Stanwood. Yeager blends offbeat humor and practical advice for living a happier, healthier and fuller life by spending and consuming less. Presented by the Stanwood Public Library.

360-629-3132.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, December 10, 2015

OUT & ABOUT ART

Arts of Whatcom County has partnered with SPIE IN THE ART BAR: Paint- and the International Year ings and prints by Mount of Light to create a unique Vernon artist Daniel Tuttle art exhibit pairing light are on display through and technology, continuDecember in the Lincoln ing through Dec. 18, at the Theatre Art Bar, 712 S. First Allied Arts Gallery, 1418 St., Mount Vernon. Tuttle Cornwall Ave., Bellingham. has been obsessed with the Artists were invited to presvisual arts since the age of ent work that exemplifies, 3, working over the years honors or speaks to the in blockprint, watercolor, importance of light. Feaserigraphy and freelance tured artists include Chrisgraphic work. His recent topher Morrison, Kenni work includes multi-run Merritt, Bonnie Abbasi, Jenblockprints and acrylic nifer and Tom Dolese, Pat paintings, including landWickline, Carole McNeese, scapes of the mountains, bays and rivers of northwest Ellen Clark and Eric Brown.

Gallery hours are 10 a.m.

Washington. 360-336-8955 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through or lincolntheatre.org.

Friday and noon to 5 p.m.

Saturday. 360-676-8548 or INVITATIONAL ART alliedarts.org.

SHOW: “Objectification 8” will be on display through “IN MONET’S FOOTDec. 31 at Smith & Vallee STEPS”: The show will Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Ave., continue through Dec. 31, Edison. Featuring more at Fourth Corner Frames than 50 local and regional & Gallery, 311 W. Holly St., artists, the annual show Bellingham. Following in focuses on functional and Monet’s footprints, a group three-dimensional artwork of regional artists visited in a variety of mediums — sculpture, ceramics, glass art, Giverny, Eterat and Paris mixed media and more. Pur- last May. From traditional to modern, their work feachased items can be taken home immediately. The gal- tures subjects made famous lery is open from 11 a.m. to by the Impressionists. For 5 p.m. daily. 360-766-6230 or information, including gallery hours and directions, smithandvallee.com. call 360-734-1340 or visit ACRYLIC PAINTINGS: A fourthcornerframes.com. show of new acrylic paintSTUDIO SALE: Studio ings by Jennifer Bowman Outback will host a holiday will continue through Jan. sale of unique arts and crafts 26, at Scott Milo Gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., Ana- from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at 801 Central cortes. Also showing are Ave., Sedro-Woolley. The acrylics by Cynthia Richardson, oils by Sandy Byers, event will feature a variety of items including yard art, photographs by Lewis Jones and Randy Dana and colorful wind kites, cloth baskets, handmade soap and pastels by Barbara Benedetti Newton, as well as new more. 360-854-7873. tables and baskets by Lanny BILINGUAL MUSEUM Bergner and new tables by TOUR: The Museum of Gary Leake. Gallery hours Northwest Art, 121 S. First are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

St., La Conner, will offer a Monday through Saturday or by appointment. 360-293- Bilingual Spanish Exhibition Tour at 1:15 p.m. Satur6938 or scottmilo.com. day, Dec. 19. Join educator YEAR OF LIGHT: Allied Melody Young for a guided

tour and engaging discussion of the museum’s current exhibitions. Tours are family-friendly and geared for native speakers as well as students of the language.

Free. 360-466-4446 or mona museum.org.

“FABLES”: The show of paintings and sculpture by Elaine Badgley Arnoux continues through Dec. 10, at Cassera Arts Premiers, 106 First St., La Conner.

“In my 80th year I have reflected on the sequence of eras in my life. My childhood “Mother Goose” book served as a reference for these many years.

The rhymes punctuate the epochs to give a voice and images to our changing world,” says Arnoux. For information, including gallery hours and directions, call 310-691-9391 or visit casseraartspremiers.com.

LOCAL ARTIST: Painter Nicolette Harrington is the featured artist in a show at The Shop, 18623 Main St., Conway. Shop hours are 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. 360-3912691 or theshopconway. com.

SMALL ART WORKS: Celebrating its 25th year, “Honey, I Shrunk The Art” will continue through Jan. 10, at Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park, 2345 Blanche Way, Camano Island. The annual invitational Holiday Show features small works by 40 artists working in glass, oils, acrylic, ceramic, watercolor, mixed media, stone and metal. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday or by appointment. 360-387-2759 or matzkefineart.com.

REPURPOSED TIN: Artworks created from repurposed tin by Nan Wonderly are on display through Dec.

11, at the Skagit Valley College Art Gallery, located in the Gary Knutzen Cardinal Center, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. In response to our overconsumption of synthetic, non-degradable products, Wonderly uses products at the end of their intended lifecycle, making art without driving the demand on additional resources. Nan uses the colors on the tin pieces as her palette, and individual cut pieces as brushstrokes. The gallery is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 360-416-7812.

appointment. 360-708-4787 or gallerycygnus.com.

QUILTS & MORE: Several new exhibits of quilts, wearables and other fiber arts will continue through Dec. 30, at the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, 703 S. Second St., La Conner. n “Great Lakes Seaway: War of 1812 International Challenge”: This traveling exhibition sponsored by the Great Lakes Seaway Trail features 26 quilts, newlymade, but true to 1812-period quilting patterns, fabrics and colors. Interpretive panels tell each quilt’s “story” — some real, some imagLUMMI MOUNTAIN IN ined — and its relevance to ART: The Lummi Invitawhat many historians contional art show featuring sider America’s second war “the singular power of for independence.

Lummi Mountain and how n “Illusions & Shadows: its presence plays out in the Colleen Wise”: Colleen’s art of Northwest painters” quilts have a sense of depth is on display through Dec. that goes beyond the sur27, at i.e. gallery, 5800 Cains face. Elements seem to float Court, Edison. “Called above the surface or recede Cloud Catcher by some and into the depths of the quilt. considered sacred ground She feels compelled to by the Original People, assign a private narrative Lummi Mountain is there to every piece, starting with through the decades in the a title and story, and buildart-making of the locals.” ing the work from there. “I Gallery hours are 11 a.m. create illusion by casting to 5 p.m. Friday through shadows, and by doing so I Sunday or by appointment. create light,” Wise says.

206-437-8534, 360-488-3458 n “Best of the Festival or ieedison.com.

2015”: The first floor of the Gaches Mansion hosts the PAINTINGS EXPRESS blue ribbon quilts, wearables LOSS: A show of paintings and fiber art from the 2015

by Camano Island artist Quilt & Fiber Arts Festival.

Michelle Bear continues On exhibit will be Best of through Dec. 24, at Gallery Show and all the top entries Cygnus, 109 Commercial, in each category; plus the La Conner. Michelle’s pieces that have been given paintings are a poignant an Award of Excellence. expression of loss. Her Included are traditional grounding is a sense of quilts, art quilts, wearable place, a habitat that’s dam- arts and fiber arts. aged and still wildly beaun Christmas Dolls: tiful. It is identified with Christmas-themed dolls crewildlife that suffers, and ated by Gloria Burke are she gives that loss a voice now on display. through powerful images The museum is open that symbolize what we’re from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. missing. Gallery hours Wednesday through Sunday. are noon to 5 p.m. Friday Admission: $7, $5 students through Sunday, or by and military with ID, free

for members and ages 11 and younger. 360-466-4288 or laconnerquilts.org.

CONTEMPORARY INDIGENOUS ART: “Not Vanishing: Contemporary Expressions in Indigenous Art, 1977-2015” will continue through Jan. 3, at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner.

Curated by Gail Tremblay and Miles R. Miller, the exhibit examines the evolution of the Contemporary Native American Arts Movement and the works of artists living in the Northwest, with emphasis on the Puget Sound and Plateau regions. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday. Free. 360-466-4446 or monamuseum.org.

OUTDOOR SCULPTURE EXHIBIT: The La Conner Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit is on display through March 1, 2016, at public locations around La Conner. The annual juried exhibition features work by some of the Northwest’s most accomplished artists. For information, including a map of the sculptures and works available for sale, call 360-466-3125 or visit town oflaconner.org.

LECTURES AND TALKS LOCAL RADIO: “Speak Up! Speak Out!,” a halfhour weekly show committed to community, peace, justice and non-violence issues broadcasts at 5 p.m.

Wednesdays and 8 p.m.

Sundays on Skagit Valley Community Radio Station KSVR 91.7 FM (Mount Vernon), KSVU 90.1 FM (Hamilton), KMRE 102.3 FM (Bellingham) and KSJU 91.9 FM (Friday Harbor). speakupspeakoutradio .org.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 10, 2015 - E5

OUT & ABOUT POETRY READING: Poet, farmer and teacher Jessica Gigot will read from and sign copies of her newly published book of poems, “Flood Patterns,” during a book launch reception at 6:30 p.m. today, Dec. 10, at i.e. gallery, 5800 Cains Court, Edison. Gigot’s poems are deeply influenced by her life on a small organic farm in Bow, where she grows herbs and produce, raises sheep and offers seasonal workshops in art and health. Light refreshments will be provided. Books will be available for purchase. jessicagigot.com.

ULTIMATE CHEAPSKATE: Jeff Yeager, who bills himself as “The Ultimate Cheapskate,” will give a free presentation at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at the Stanwood/ Camano Resource Center at 9612 271st St. NW, Stanwood. Yeager blends offbeat humor and practical advice for living a happier, healthier and fuller life by spending and consuming less. Presented by the Stanwood Public Library. 360629-3132.

event will feature pictures with Santa, holiday treats and gifts, free gift wrapping, holiday family photo shoots, food and more. 360770-2836.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN THE AREA CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE: Permits to cut Christmas trees in the Mt. BakerSnoqualmie National Forest can be purchased through Thursday, Dec. 24.

In Skagit County, permits are sold from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays, except holidays, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Mt. Baker Ranger Station, 810 Highway 20, Sedro-Woolley.

Call ahead, 360-8565700, ext. 515, to make sure permits are available.

Permits cost $10 each, one tree per permit, with a tree height limit of 12 feet. Trees taller than 12 feet require a tall tree permit for $20. The permits are nonrefundable.

The Forest Service also is offering a free holiday tree permit to fourth graders through the national “Every Kid in a Park” initiative.

To obtain a free permit, students must visit every kidinapark.gov, where they can print out a paper

preceded by the Museum Foundation’s annual meetMUSIC ing and election at 6 p.m.

“MUSIC IN THE Members will vote on founSTACKS”: The Cantabile dation board officers, with choral ensemble will pernominations accepted from form sacred and secular the floor. 360-293-1915 or music from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. museum.cityofanacortes.

Monday, Dec. 14, at the org.

Mount Vernon City Library, 315 Snoqualmie St. Free.

SPOTLIGHT FILM FESTI360-336-6209 or mount VAL: The Lincoln Theatre vernonwa.gov/library. will host a series of documentaries on issues that MORE FUN impact the lives of Skagit County residents at 7 p.m.

HOLIDAY RECEPTION: Thursdays, at 712 S. First The Anacortes Museum St., Mount Vernon. Each Foundation’s annual holiday reception will take film highlights a different topic, followed by a complace from 6:30 to 8 p.m. munity panel or discussion.

Thursday, Dec. 10, at the $5 suggested donation. 360Anacortes Museum, 1305 336-8955 or lincolntheatre.

Eighth St., Anacortes.

The celebration will be org.

voucher to present to a Forest Service office.

Cutting areas are located within national forest lands in the eastern portions of Skagit, Snohomish, Whatcom, Pierce and King counties. Maps and information about cutting areas are provided where permits are sold.

The Forest Service also recommends that you plan to purchase a parking permit if your tree-cutting trip includes parking in a designated Sno-Park lot.

Getting a tree early before snow falls usually means better access on forest roads. Most trees are accessible only by narrow, unplowed mountain roads.

High-clearance vehicles are often required along with tire chains and a shovel. Check ranger stations for road and weather information or visit fs.usda.gov/mbs/ road-trails.

CHRISTMAS TREE SALE: The Anacortes Kiwanis Sunrisers Club Next up: n Dec 10: “The Raising of America”: The film illustrates how a strong start for all our kids leads not only to better learning, earning and physical and mental health, but also to a healthier, safer, better educated, more prosperous nation.

is selling fresh-cut Christmas trees from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, through Dec. 23, at Sebo’s Hardware & Rental, 1102 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Regular deliveries of fresh-cut Washington trees are offered in a wide range of sizes and prices. Proceeds will benefit the many worthy local causes supported by the Kiwanis Club 360-223-7722.

HOLIDAY ART FESTIVAL: The 36th annual Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, through Dec. 24, at 4145 Meridian St., Bellingham. The festival will close at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Thursday, Dec. 24. The Holiday Festival will feature the work of more than 100 local artisans and craftspeople offering handmade products including jewelry, paintings, wearable art, specialty foods, art from found materials and more. Enjoy live music, artist demos and workshops, and fun art proj-

Watch award-winning film “The Power Of The Heart” at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Featuring some of the most inspiring and influential icons of our age including Paulo Coelho, Maya Angelou, Deepak Chopra, Isabel Allende WINTER WALTZ: The and Eckhart Tolle, this Mount Vernon High School film presents fascinating Orchestra’s Winter Waltz evidence that your heart is will be held at 7 p.m. Frimuch more than a physical day, Dec. 11, in the school organ, and that it can actucafeteria, 314 N. Ninth St., ally transform your views of Mount Vernon. Enjoy danc- money, health, relationships ing to live music. Free pro- and success. By donation. fessional dance lessons will 360-464-2229 or anacortes be available. Admission: $5. centerforhappiness.org.

360-428-6100.

MODEL RAILROAD FILM SCREENING: OPEN HOUSE: The What-

ects for kids. For information, call 360-676-8548 or visit alliedarts.org.

HANDMADE HOLIDAYS: The Port Susan Farmers Market is hosting Handmade Holidays, through Dec. 24, at the old Snow Goose Bookstore, 8616 271st St. NW, Stanwood.

More than 40 vendors will offer locally-grown foods and handmade gifts for the whole family. The market is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, through Dec. 20, as well as 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Monday through Wednesday, Dec. 21-23, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24. Free admission.

360-202- 3932 or portsusan.org.

HOLIDAY BAZAAR: The Bellingham Circus Guild will host a holiday bazaar from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at the Cirque Lab, 1401 Sixth St., Suite 102, Bellingham. Expect a variety of goods including illustrated greeting cards, artisan salts and tinctures, soaps and herbal teas, felted earrings and drinking chocolate, woolly winter hats and more. Free admission. n Stick around for Circus Guild Vaudvillingham performances at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. for a $5 suggested donation. 360-421-7827 or bellinghamcircusguild.com.

WINTER SOLSTICE SOUND PRAYER: Welcome back the light with sound and candlelight from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Rev. Elke Siller Macartney will use crystal singing bowls, com-Skagit Model Railroad drumming and chanting to Club will host a special sound a prayer for peace Christmas open house from and well-being the world 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, over. Bring a small votive Dec. 12, at 1469 Silver Run candle holder and your Lane, Alger. Check out the intentions for the upcomclub’s large, permanent ing year. $10 per person, HO- and N-scale indoor $15 per family. RSVP: 360railroad layouts. Admission 464-2229 or anacortes is by donation to maintain centerforhappiness.org. and expand the layouts. whatcomskagitmrc.org.

MOVIE NIGHT: Enjoy a free screening of “Strange COMMUNITY BAZAAR/ Brew” at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, CHILDREN’S CRAFT FAIR: Dec. 20, at the Center for The Imagine Concrete Spiritual Living, 1508 N. Foundation’s second annual 18th St., Mount Vernon.

Community Bazaar and Bring your own pillows/ Children’s Craft Fair will blankets/snacks/water be held from 11 a.m. to 2:30 bottles (no other beverp.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at ages permitted). Not the Concrete Elementary handicapped accessible.

School gym, 7838 S. SupeDonations accepted. 360rior Ave., Concrete. The 202-2329.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, December 10, 2015

TRAVEL Local Travel

SHORT TRIPS: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation offers travel opportunities for ages 8 and older (adult supervision required for ages 17 and younger).

Trips depart from and return to Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon.

For information or to register, call 360336-6215.

293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityofana cortes.org.

ESCORTED TOURS: The Whatcom County Tour Program offers a variety of day trips and longer tours, with most trips departing from and returning to the Bellingham Senior Activity Center, 315 Halleck St., Bellingham. For information or to register: 360-733-4030, ext.

1015, or wccoa.org/index.php/Tours.

Next up: Future extended trips include a cruise n Granville Island and Van Dusen through Alaska’s Inside Passage, a Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights: scenic rail tour of British Columbia hot 12:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16. springs and the Rockies, a fall trip to Enjoy plenty of time for shopping and Ireland, a tour of Martha’s Vineyard and a no-host meal before heading to Van the Eastern Seaboard, and a visit to Dusen Gardens, transformed into a winter wonderland complete with elves, New Mexico’s legendary annual Balloon light shows, strolling carolers and more. Fiesta.

The drive home will feature a detour to see some festive neighborhood disESCORTED TOURS: The Oak Harbor plays. $72-$74. Register by Dec. 9.

Senior Center, 51 SE Jerome St., has several upcoming international trips “ASIAN ADVENTURE: TOKYO & planned: Tropical Costa Rica, Feb. KAMAKURA”: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 29-March 8, 2016; a European River 6, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 Cruise, Budapest to Amsterdam, Oct. 10th St., Anacortes. Don and Joyce 12-27, 2016; and a trip to Hawaii, Nov. Paradine share their cruise to Tokyo 12-19, 2016. For information, contact and other Asian locales, including Hong Pat at pgardner@oakharbor.org or 360Kong, Vietnam and Thailand. Free. 360- 279-4582.

Skagit Symphony

Holiday Concert Concert Sponsored by:

Saturday k December 12, 2015 k 7:30pm l

l

McIntyre Hall • Mount Vernon featuring the

Skagit Symphony Chorus Tickets & Information: Program: Handel’s Messiah with the Symphony Chorus k Fantasia on “Greensleeves” k Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet Selections k Audience Caroling with the Symphony k l

McIntyre Hall Box Office

Tue-Fri • 12-4pm (360) 416-7727, ext. 2 toll-free (866) 624-6897 www.McIntyreHall.org

l

l

l

Skagit Symphony

(360) 848-9336 www.SkagitSymphony.com Thanks to Chad Fisher Construction, Music Sponsor for this concert.

Grand Canyon seeks changes as more visitors use backcountry

By FELICIA FONSECA Associated Press

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The Grand Canyon wants to change the way backcountry areas are managed as more outdoor enthusiasts take to the park’s open spaces, with proposals that would require hikers using the most popular innercanyon trails to spend a few dollars on a permit.

Millions of people visit the Grand Canyon each year, taking in the sweeping views from developed areas where they can stroll along the rim, grab a bite to eat and hop on a shuttle bus to other outlooks. Far fewer people venture into the 1.1 million acres that make up the backcountry, including trails below the canyon rim.

Park officials are trying to get a better handle on how many people are walking down trails such as Bright Angel and South Kaibab from the South Rim, and North Kaibab from the North Rim. Three options for revising a 1988 backcountry management plan include a day-use permit for hiking more than 5 miles below the rim and paying a minimum $5 fee.

Park superintendent Dave Uberuaga said the system would allow hikers to read up on the weather, physical demands of hiking and traffic on the trail to improve their experience.

“Our intent is not to prevent them from doing it, and we’re not talking about limits,” he said Monday.

“We’re talking about educating them so they know what they’re getting into.”

The proposals for backcountry management also

AP file / March 16, 2015

Hikers stop and take photos along the Grand Canyon National Park’s South Kaibab trail. address more remote areas of the park and relatively new recreation activities such as canyoneering, climbing, rim-to-rim excursions and backpacking trips that require short travel on the Colorado River.

The proposals aim to reduce conflicts among outdoor groups seeking the solitude of the backcountry and to ensure the park’s resources are protected.

Between 30,000 and 35,000 people a year travel to areas that can take days or weeks to access.

Backcountry permits now don’t identify when someone plans to go climbing or canyoneering, and the park has no policy on anchors placed into rocks or other gear.

Uberuaga said the park wants to monitor the use and be upfront with people on how those activities can be managed.

Last year, the Grand Canyon started requiring permits and a fee for groups of hikers and runners who publicly advertised a rimto-rim trip to cut back on overcrowding on the trails, litter and safety issues.

The park’s preferred option for the backcountry management plan includes reducing group sizes for overnight backpacking, developing more campsites and limiting commercially guided services.

Chris Forsyth, president of the Grand Canyon Hikers and Backpackers Association, said the group is still reviewing the proposals. But he said he’s interested in knowing how backcountry permits might be divided between commercial guides and private backpackers, which could lead to the same kind of controversy seen with river trips. All applications are treated the same now.

“It seems that they’re proposing to set aside more nights for guided hikes, and that seems an unnecessary distortion,” he said.

A proposed pilot program also would allow seasonal access to a limited number of backpackers to a coveted area of canyons, buttes and a natural bridge beyond a formation known as the Great Thumb. Access has been limited by a nearby tribe.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 10, 2015 - E7

HOT TICKETS AVERAGE WHITE BAND: Dec. 10-13, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle.

206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

SLOW MAGIC, GIRAFFAGE: Dec. 11, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showbox online.com.

MUSE: Dec. 12, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-7453000 or LiveNation.com.

THE ENGLISH BEAT: Dec. 12, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

FALLING IN REVERSE, ATREYU: Dec. 14, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showbox online.com.

SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX: Dec. 15, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

NIYKEE HEATON: Dec. 15, The Crocodile, Seattle.

877-987-6487 or thecroco dile.com.

CIARA: Dec. 16, The

PINK MARTINI: Jan. 16, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

TRIBAL SEEDS: Jan. 21, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or show boxonline.com.

SUPER DIAMOND (Tribute to Neil Diamond): Jan. 22, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or show boxonline.com.

STS9: Jan. 23, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showbox 31, KeyArena, Seattle. online.com.

800-745-3000 or Live NEVER SHOUT NEVER: Nation.com.

Jan. 26, The Showbox, G-EAZY: Jan 7, WaMu Seattle. 800-745-3000 or Theater, Seattle. 800-745- showboxonline.com.

3000 or Ticketmaster.com.

PAULA POUNDSTONE: FOREVERLAND (Tribute Jan. 29, Lincoln Theatre, to Michael Jackson): Jan. Mount Vernon. 360-3369, The Showbox, Seattle.

8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

800-745-3000 or show INTERNATIONAL GUIboxonline.com.

TAR NIGHT: Jan. 31, BIG HEAD TODD & THE Lincoln Theatre, Mount MONSTERS: Jan. 14, The Vernon. 360-336-8955 or Showbox, Seattle. 800lincolntheatre.org.

745-3000 or showbox LETTUCE: Feb. 4, The online.com.

Showbox, Seattle. 800JANET JACKSON Jan. 13, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showbox online.com.

X: Dec. 18, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline. com.

YELLOW CLAW: Dec. 18, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

THE 1975: Dec. 20, Showbox SoDo, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or show boxonline.com.

AMY SCHUMER: Dec.

745-3000 or showbox online.com.

BUILT TO SPILL: Feb. 5-6, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or show boxonline.com.

BLACK SABBATH: Feb. 6, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma.

800-745-3000 or Live Nation.com.

BRIAN REGAN: Feb. 11, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

GRACE POTTER: Feb. 13, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BRAD PAISLEY: Feb. 13, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma.

800-745-3000 or Live Nation.com.

INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS: Feb. 18, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showbox online.com.

BORGEOUS & MORGAN PAGE: Feb. 20, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline. com.

TAKE 6: Feb. 20, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham.

360-734-6080 or mount bakertheatre.com.

CRADLE OF FILTH: Feb. 23, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or show boxonline.com.

GALACTIC: Feb. 26, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showbox online.com.

BARCELONA: Feb. 26, The Crocodile, Seattle.

877-987-6487 or thecroco dile.com.

GINO VANNELLI: Feb. 26-27, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

PAPADOSIO: Feb. 27, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or show boxonline.com.

KEYS N KRATES: Feb. 28, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or show boxonline.com.

ST. LUCIA: March 2, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showbox online.com.

E8 Thursday, December 10, 2015

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area December 10-17 Thursday.10 THEATER

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

TUNING UP Playing at area venues December 10-17 THURSDAY.10

SATURDAY.12

HOLIDAY CONCERT Skagit Symphony: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $20-$40. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

MUSIC

Winter Concert: Concrete Music Department: 5 p.m., Concrete High School cafeteria, 7830 S. Superior Ave., Concrete.

A spaghetti dinner will precede the concert. Donations welcome. 360-853-4015.

THEATER

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“The Addams Family: A Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. Uncle Fester’s Ooky Saloon opens one hour before each performance. Tickets: $24 adults, $20 seniors and military, $17 youth. 800-6387631, 360-221-8268 or wicaonline.org.

MUSIC

“Heralding Christmas”: Skagit Valley Chorale: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $16-$25. $14 seniors, students, military. 360-416-7727, ext.

2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“Holiday Concert”: Oak Harbor High School Choir: 7 p.m., OHHS Sub Building, One Wildcat Way, Oak Harbor. $3. 360-2795829 or sites.google.com/site/oakharbor choirs.

VARIETY

Amuze Cabaret (dinner theatre and variety show): 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $20, $35 with dinner.

360-445-3000.

FRIDAY.11

Jim Page: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

Markus Hoyer, Vince Allis, Joel Hoyer: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Courtney Andrews: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-5881720.

John Delourme: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

CC Adams Band: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Nuages Jazz: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Robin Bessier: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Friday Swing, with Duane Melcher and Ken Vanderhyde: 7 to 9 p.m., North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. No cover.

360-707-2683.

Wayne Hayton: 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Rabbit Wilde: 6 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. 360- 4More (high energy dance top 40): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., 982-2649.

Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No Cover.

Loco Billy’s Wild Moon 877-275-2448.

Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover.

425-737-5144 or 360-6296500.

Friday.11

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Thursday, December 10, 2015 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Saturday.12

Sunday.13

Tuesday.15

THEATER

THEATER

MUSIC

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-2936829 or acttheatre.com.

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 2:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“The Addams Family: A Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. Uncle Fester’s Ooky Saloon opens one hour before each performance. Tickets: $24 adults, $20 seniors and military, $17 youth. 800-6387631, 360-221-8268 or wicaonline.org.

“The Addams Family: A Musical”: 2 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. Uncle Fester’s Ooky Saloon opens one hour before each performance. $17. 800-638-7631, 360-2218268 or wicaonline.org.

MUSIC

“Heralding Christmas”: Skagit Valley Chorale: 2 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $16-$25, $14 seniors, students, military. 360-416-7727, ext.

2, or mcintyrehall.org.

FYS Holiday Concert: Fidalgo Youth Symphony: 1 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $15, $10 seniors, $1 students with ID and children ages 16 and younger. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

MUSIC

VARIETY

Amuze Cabaret (dinner theatre and variety show): 1 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $20, $35 with lunch.

360-445-3000.

Holiday Dinner Concert: with Jennifer Scott: 5:30 to 9 p.m., Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Road, Camano Island. $25.

Purchase tickets by Dec. 11. 360-387-0222 or camanocenter.org.

Wednesday.16

Wolvhammer, Atriarch, Hissing: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $10. 360-778-1067.

Jukebox Duo: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

360-848-8882.

Acoustic night with J.P. Falcon and guests: 8 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6330.

Thursday.17 THEATER

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

WES JONES BAND 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $5. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

SATURDAY.12 CC Adams Band: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Rafael Tranquilino Band: 7:30 p.m., H2O, Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755Vernon. 360-422-6411.

3956.

Rabbit Wilde: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Helms Alee, Powwers, The Crawl: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7. 360-778-1067.

4More: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino March To May: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner.

Lane, Bow. No Cover. 877-275-2448.

360-399-1805.

Nowhere Near Nashville: 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10. Free line dance lessons at 7:30 p.m. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

Little Mountain Band: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover. 360-766-6330.

MUSIC

Winter Concert: Mount Vernon High School Choir Dept.: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Matinee admission: $6 adults, $4 students, $3 children; evening admission: $8.

360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

FRIDAY.11

SUNDAY.13

WEDNESDAY.16

SmokeWagon — A Surfin’ Christmas: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Wayne Hayton: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, Isaac DeVange, with the Julian Mac320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588- Donough Trio: 7 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham.

1720. $10, $5 student, free for WJMAC members. 206-612-5967.

THURSDAY.17

Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-445-4733.

Reggae 90210, 3 Moons, Rant: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-7781067.

SATURDAY.12 FABULOUS ROOF SHAKERS 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

Hilary Scott and AJ Gennaro: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

Tony’s Liquid Kitchen: 6 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

Queens Bluegrass: 6 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley.

360-982-2649.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-737-5144 or 360629-6500.

Open Mic Night with David Ritchie: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

The Grizzled Mighty, Prom Queen, Guillotine Eyes: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7. 360-778-1067.

E8 Thursday, December 10, 2015

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area December 10-17 Thursday.10 THEATER

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

TUNING UP Playing at area venues December 10-17 THURSDAY.10

SATURDAY.12

HOLIDAY CONCERT Skagit Symphony: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $20-$40. 360416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

MUSIC

Winter Concert: Concrete Music Department: 5 p.m., Concrete High School cafeteria, 7830 S. Superior Ave., Concrete.

A spaghetti dinner will precede the concert. Donations welcome. 360-853-4015.

THEATER

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“The Addams Family: A Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. Uncle Fester’s Ooky Saloon opens one hour before each performance. Tickets: $24 adults, $20 seniors and military, $17 youth. 800-6387631, 360-221-8268 or wicaonline.org.

MUSIC

“Heralding Christmas”: Skagit Valley Chorale: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $16-$25. $14 seniors, students, military. 360-416-7727, ext.

2, or mcintyrehall.org.

“Holiday Concert”: Oak Harbor High School Choir: 7 p.m., OHHS Sub Building, One Wildcat Way, Oak Harbor. $3. 360-2795829 or sites.google.com/site/oakharbor choirs.

VARIETY

Amuze Cabaret (dinner theatre and variety show): 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $20, $35 with dinner.

360-445-3000.

FRIDAY.11

Jim Page: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

Markus Hoyer, Vince Allis, Joel Hoyer: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Courtney Andrews: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-5881720.

John Delourme: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

CC Adams Band: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Nuages Jazz: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Robin Bessier: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Friday Swing, with Duane Melcher and Ken Vanderhyde: 7 to 9 p.m., North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. No cover.

360-707-2683.

Wayne Hayton: 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Rabbit Wilde: 6 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. 360- 4More (high energy dance top 40): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., 982-2649.

Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No Cover.

Loco Billy’s Wild Moon 877-275-2448.

Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover.

425-737-5144 or 360-6296500.

Friday.11

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Thursday, December 10, 2015 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Saturday.12

Sunday.13

Tuesday.15

THEATER

THEATER

MUSIC

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-2936829 or acttheatre.com.

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 2:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“The Addams Family: A Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. Uncle Fester’s Ooky Saloon opens one hour before each performance. Tickets: $24 adults, $20 seniors and military, $17 youth. 800-6387631, 360-221-8268 or wicaonline.org.

“The Addams Family: A Musical”: 2 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. Uncle Fester’s Ooky Saloon opens one hour before each performance. $17. 800-638-7631, 360-2218268 or wicaonline.org.

MUSIC

“Heralding Christmas”: Skagit Valley Chorale: 2 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $16-$25, $14 seniors, students, military. 360-416-7727, ext.

2, or mcintyrehall.org.

FYS Holiday Concert: Fidalgo Youth Symphony: 1 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $15, $10 seniors, $1 students with ID and children ages 16 and younger. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

MUSIC

VARIETY

Amuze Cabaret (dinner theatre and variety show): 1 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $20, $35 with lunch.

360-445-3000.

Holiday Dinner Concert: with Jennifer Scott: 5:30 to 9 p.m., Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Road, Camano Island. $25.

Purchase tickets by Dec. 11. 360-387-0222 or camanocenter.org.

Wednesday.16

Wolvhammer, Atriarch, Hissing: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $10. 360-778-1067.

Jukebox Duo: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

360-848-8882.

Acoustic night with J.P. Falcon and guests: 8 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6330.

Thursday.17 THEATER

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardobe”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918, M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“A Dickens Christmas Carol: A Traveling Travesty in Two Tumultuous Acts” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $15 adults, $10 ages 16 and younger. 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

WES JONES BAND 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $5. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

SATURDAY.12 CC Adams Band: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Rafael Tranquilino Band: 7:30 p.m., H2O, Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755Vernon. 360-422-6411.

3956.

Rabbit Wilde: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Helms Alee, Powwers, The Crawl: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7. 360-778-1067.

4More: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino March To May: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner.

Lane, Bow. No Cover. 877-275-2448.

360-399-1805.

Nowhere Near Nashville: 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10. Free line dance lessons at 7:30 p.m. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

Little Mountain Band: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover. 360-766-6330.

MUSIC

Winter Concert: Mount Vernon High School Choir Dept.: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Matinee admission: $6 adults, $4 students, $3 children; evening admission: $8.

360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

FRIDAY.11

SUNDAY.13

WEDNESDAY.16

SmokeWagon — A Surfin’ Christmas: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Wayne Hayton: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, Isaac DeVange, with the Julian Mac320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588- Donough Trio: 7 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham.

1720. $10, $5 student, free for WJMAC members. 206-612-5967.

THURSDAY.17

Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-445-4733.

Reggae 90210, 3 Moons, Rant: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-7781067.

SATURDAY.12 FABULOUS ROOF SHAKERS 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

Hilary Scott and AJ Gennaro: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

Tony’s Liquid Kitchen: 6 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

Queens Bluegrass: 6 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley.

360-982-2649.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-737-5144 or 360629-6500.

Open Mic Night with David Ritchie: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

The Grizzled Mighty, Prom Queen, Guillotine Eyes: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7. 360-778-1067.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E10 - Thursday, December 10, 2015

GET INVOLVED ART CALL FOR ARTISTS/ GALLERIES: The Whidbey Art Trail, a self-guided artist studio tour, is accepting applications through March 1 from Whidbey Island artists, galleries and others who want to participate in promoting the artistic bounty of Whidbey Island.

For information or an application, visit whidbeyarttrail. com.

ART COMMISSION MEETING: The Mount Vernon Arts Commission will meet at 3:30 p.m. today, Dec. 10, in the conference room at Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon.

360-336-6215.

CALL TO COLLECTORS: The Anacortes Museum, 1305 Eighth St., Anacortes, invites local collectors to participate in its “Anacortes Presents” program by put-

HERALDING CHRISTMAS SKAGIT VALLEY CHORALE DECEMBER 11 & 13 HOLIDAY CONCERT FIDALGO YOUTH SYMPHONY DECEMBER 12 HOLIDAY CONCERT SKAGIT SYMPHONY DECEMBER 12 WINTER CONCERT MVHS CHOIRS DECEMBER 16 THE NUTCRACKER NORTHWEST BALLET DECEMBER 19 & 20

360.416.7727

mcintyrehall.org

ting their treasures on display at the museum for the entire community to enjoy.

Exhibits usually run about three months. For information, call 360-293-1915.

MOVING MEDITATIONS: The Dances of Universal Peace will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 3, at the Center for Spiritual Living, 1508 N. 18th St., Mount Vernon. Dances include live music and singing with a AUDITIONS focus on a particular sacred “LOST IN YONKERS”: phrase, inspired by spiritual Auditions will be held at 2 traditions from around the p.m. Sunday and 6:30 p.m. world, including Christian, Monday, Jan. 31-Feb. 1, at Jewish, Native American, the Whidbey Playhouse/ Hindu, Buddhist and others.

Star Studio, 730 SE Midway No experience necessary.

Blvd., Oak Harbor. Parts are Dances are taught to the available for two men, two group each time. Donateen boys and three women. tion requested, but no one Neil Simon’s dramatic com- is turned away for lack of edy will run April 1-17. 360- funds. 360-629-9190.

679-2237 or whidbey playhouse.com.

BEGINNER SQUARE DANCE LESSONS: 7 p.m.

Tuesdays, beginning Jan. 5, DANCE at the Mount Vernon Senior WINTER DANCE CAMP: Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Skagit Valley Academy of Families, couples and singles Dance will host a two-day ages 10 and older are welWinter Dance Camp for come. First two weeks are ages 4 to 7 from 9 a.m. to noon Monday and Wednes- free, then $4 per lesson. 360424-4608 or email rosie@ day, Dec. 28 and 30, at 1522 valleyint.com.

Jay Way, Mount Vernon.

Beginning and intermediate CLOG DANCING FOR dancers will learn creative BEGINNERS: Free lesson movement, character, lyrical from 10 to 11 a.m., followed and jazz dance styles, and enjoy creative arts and crafts. by regular clog dancing from 11 a.m. to noon Thurs$35, includes a snack. 360days, at the Mount Vernon 424-6677 or skagitvalley Senior Center, 1401 Cleveacademyofdance.com. land St., Mount Vernon.

No fee, no partner needed.

SCOTTISH DANCING: First three lessons are free.

Bellingham Scottish CounWear comfortable shoes. try Dancers meet from 7 to For information, call Rosie 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the at 360-424-4608.

Fairhaven Library auditorium (upstairs), 1117 12th St., MUSIC Bellingham. Wear comfortable clothes and soft-soled BARBERSHOP HARshoes without heels. $8 per MONY: Want to have fun class. For information, call singing 4-part Barbershop Mary Anderson at 360-933- harmony? Attend a free, no1779 or visit bellinghamscd. commitment rehearsal of the An-O-Chords. No expeorg. rience necessary, no auditions required. Learn by THURSDAY DANCE: Enjoy dancing to the music rote, you don’t have to read music. All ages welcome, 12 of The Skippers from 1 to to 90+. Drop in any Thurs3:30 p.m. Thursdays at Hillcrest Lodge, 1717 S. 13th St., day at 7 p.m. at the NorthMount Vernon. For informa- west Educational Service Building, 1601 R Ave., Anation, contact Gisela at 360424-5696. cortes. Rides available. Bob

Lundquist, 360-941-5733 or svenbob@cheerful.com.

CALL FOR MUSICIANS: 5b’s Bakery, 45597 Main St., Concrete, is looking for musicians to perform easy-listening acoustic music from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during Sunday Brunch. In exchange, musicians will receive audience contributions and a meal. For information, call 360-853-8700 or email info@5bsbakery.com.

TIME FOR FIDDLERS: The Washington Old Time Fiddlers play acoustic old time music at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland. St. Free; donations accepted. Information: 630-1156.

SHELTER BAY CHORUS: Practices are held from 3 to 5 p.m. every Monday (except 2 to 4 p.m. the first Monday each month) at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse, 1000 Shoshone Drive, La Conner. New members welcome. No need to be a Shelter Bay resident. 360770-7354.

OPEN MIC: Jam Night: 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursdays, at the Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-445-4733.

DRUM CIRCLE: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 16, at the Center for Spiritual Living, 1508 N. 18th St., Mount Vernon. Bring your drum or borrow one. Handicapped accessible. Free.

Freewill offering accepted.

360-305-7559.

RECREATION NEW BOOK: Poet, farmer and teacher Jessica Gigot will read from and sign copies of her newly published book of poems, “Flood Patterns,” during a book launch reception at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, at i.e. gallery, 5800 Cains Court, Edison.

Gigot’s poems are deeply influenced by her life on a small organic farm in Bow, where she grows herbs and produce, raises sheep and offers seasonal workshops in art and health. Light refreshments will be provided. Books will be available for purchase. jessicagigot. com.

TEEN ACTIVITIES: Teens and tweens ages 12 to 19 can participate in afterschool activities from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays, through Dec. 17, at the Burlington Public Library’s Rotary Community Meeting Room, 820 E. Washington Ave., Burlington. Themes and activities will change B.Y.O.G. (Bring Your Own each week and include oldGuitar): Beginner/interme- school board games; help diate acoustic guitar jam with homework resources; from 7 to 8 p.m. Wedneshands-on science, technolday, Jan. 6, at North Cove ogy and art activities; and Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington celebrations of pop culture Blvd., Burlington. Free. 360- fandoms with trivia, games 707-2683. and crafts. Participation does not require a library ANACORTES OPEN MIC: card. 360-755-0760 or burl9:30 p.m. Thursdays, at the ingtonwa.gov/library.

Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., AnaTRAIL GUIDES, BIKE cortes. 360-293-2544.

MAPS & MORE: Learn LOVE TO SING? Join the women of Harmony Northwest Chorus from 6:30-9 p.m. every Monday at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave. Seeking women who like to sing a cappella music. All skill levels welcome.

about opportunities to be physically active in Skagit County, including trail guides, an activity tracker and local resources at BeActiveSkagit.org.

BALD EAGLE INTERPRETIVE CENTER: The Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends during December and January at Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52809 Rockport Park Road, Rockport. Guided hikes are offered at 11 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday, with special presentations at 1 p.m. most Saturdays.

Next up: n Dec. 19: Winter Birds of the Skagit: with Skagit Valley College instructor and Eagle Watcher volunteer Steve Glenn. n Jan. 2: Year of the Eagle: with author and photographer Kevin Ebi. n Jan. 23: Glaciers of the North Cascades: with Jon Riedel, Geologist, North Cascades National Park. n Jan. 20: Salmon and Trout of the Skagit River: Distribution, Abundance Trends and Habitat Recovery: with Richard Brocksmith, Executive Director, Skagit Watershed Council.

Free. For information, call 360-853-7626 or visit skagiteagle.org.

FREE PARK ADMISSION: In honor of New Year’s Day and State Parks’ First Day Hikes Day, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission will offer free admission to all state parks on Thursday, Jan. 1.

On this day, the Discover Pass will not be required to enter state parks. The pass is still required to access lands managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources. parks.wa.gov.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “Minions”: It’s the side town.

“Lucky”: Woman role of a minion to Upcoming movie struggles to overcome be a servile follower releases her disadvantaged of a person in charge.

Following is a partial schedule of childhood.

That means they are coming movies on DVD. Release dates are subject to change: “One & Two”: Two resigned to play the siblings form bond supporting role.

DECEMBER 15 while growing up on That’s the problem Mission: Impossible 5 Rogue an oppressive family with the new animated Nation Ted 2 farm. comedy “Minions.”

Maze Runner 2: Scorch Trials “Iwo Jima: From The pill-shaped yellow Fantastic Four Combat to Comcharacters introduced He Named Me Malala rades”: Enemies meet in the “Despicable Time Out of Mind CSI: Crime Scene Investigation for a reunion decades Me” movie, as the sub — The Final CSI after the famed World ordinates to the vilExtant: Season 2 War II battle. lainous Gru, have now Marco Polo: Season 1 “A Place In taken center stage.

Teen Wolf: Season 5 – Part 1 Heaven”: Film that Wolf Totem The charm and was nominated for humor they brought in DECEMBER 22 10 Israeli Academy tiny doses in the previPawn Sacrifice Awards. ous films now come Dragon Blade “Emptying the 12 Rounds 3: Lockdown in a massive blast that Defiance: Season 3 Skies”: Pan-European wears thin quickly.

Dominion: Season 2 bird-loving activists “Minions” starts wage a secret war with great promise DECEMBER 29 against poachers.

The Perfect Guy but that promise gets A Walk in the Woods “Knock Knock”: broken.

Hitman Agent 47 Kind gesture turns “Ant-Man”: Ex-con Jenny’s Wedding into a deadly game. is pushed into slipBone Tomahawk Keanu Reeves stars.

Ray Donovan: Season 3 ping on super suit to Shameless: Season 5 “CPO Sharkey: The become tiny hero. Paul Best of Season One”: Rudd stars. Rudd has Don Rickles stars in neither the cutting wit the TV comedy. nor cut physique others bring to such “American Masters: Althea”: Proroles. file of first African-American to break He is a milquetoast romantic comthe color barrier in professional tennis. edy escapee who ends up being the “Under the Dome: Season 3”: The biggest thing wrong with “Ant-Man.” season finale of the CBS summer When Rudd slips on the suit, the series includes the dome coming down. movie settles into a thrill ride through “The Garbage Pail Kids Movie”: a massive miniature world.

Windy Winston, Messy Tessie, Foul From the ants he commands to the Phil and the rest of the gang come to world he inhabits, this part of the film life in this film based on the trading is a knockout. He is just out of the suit cards. too much.

“Partisan”: Children are trained to “Hannibal: Season Three”: Mads become assassins.

Mikkelsen stars in the NBC series “Family Guy: Season 13”: Among about the early days of Hannibal the episodes is the one where Peter Lecter. writes a book for children.

“The Transporter Refueled”: Frank “X-Files: The Complete Series”: Martin (Ed Skrein) is the best driver Includes all nine seasons of the Fox money can buy. series.

“Walt Before Mickey”: Walt Dis“The Unauthorized Full House ney’s life before using a mouse to Story”: A behind-the-scenes look at build an empire. the ABC family comedy series.

“Doc Martin, Series 7”: Martin Clunes plays a tactless doctor in a sean Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee

Continue the cycle — please recycle this newspaper

Thursday, December 10, 2015 - E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E12 - Thursday, December 10, 2015

MOVIES

Film Frame / Lucasfilm via AP

This photo provided by Lucasfilm shows Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca and Harrison Ford as Han Solo in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

Ford promises an older, wiser Solo in ‘The Force Awakens’

By DERRIK J. LANG AP Entertainment Writer

LOS ANGELES — When speaking about “Star Wars,” there are few topics that inspire a twinkle in Harrison Ford’s eyes.

The 73-year-old actor is matter-of-fact about almost everything involving the sci-fi series’ latest episode — from his reunion with Carrie Fisher (“It was no big deal.”) to the franchise’s unwavering popularity (“For me, it’s old news.”).

However, when Ford brings up his new co-stars, he lights up like the Millennium Falcon charging through hyperspace.

“The new, young actors Daisy Ridley and John Boyega were well cast, well directed and are huge talents,” he said, his gritty voice lifting, during a recent interview. “They come off really well in the movie. They carry the movie.”

After more than 30 years, Ford is reprising his role as smart-aleck smuggler Han Solo in director J.J. Abrams’

for those years, we do discover in the context of the story what the complications have been in his life.”

Ford, who infamously wanted George Lucas to kill off Solo in “Return of the Jedi,” had a “why not?” attitude about suiting back up as Solo. He wasn’t sur“Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” out prised by Disney’s Death Star-sized plan Dec. 18. to revive the franchise after acquiring The iconic character, who hasn’t Lucasfilm in 2012 for more than $4 bilbeen seen on screen since celebratlion. The studio is planning to release a ing the fall of the Galactic Empire in stand-alone film about a young Solo in 1983’s “Return of the Jedi,” serves as 2018. an unlikely mentor to scavenger Rey “If you make a huge investment in (Daisy Ridley), defector Finn (John a product and it pays off, there’s wisBoyega) and pilot Poe Dameron dom in seeing whether the well has (Oscar Isaac) as they team up to take run dry,” Ford said. “If the well has run on masked adversary Kylo Ren (Adam dry, (expletive) admit it and go on to Driver) and his minions. something else. This well has not dried, While the film has been cloaked in especially when you introduce new an unparalleled level of secrecy, Ford discoveries, which Daisy Ridley, John guaranteed that fans can expect the Boyega, Oscar Isaac and Adam Driver same Solo they fell in love with from represent.” the original “Star Wars” trilogy. (Disney Despite embodying the intergalactic declined to screen “Force Awakens” scoundrel in three films, the “Indiana for this story ahead of the Dec. 14 preJones” star didn’t feel the need to promiere). vide “Force Awakens” filmmakers with “The shorthand is that he’s older much insight into Solo, who is back and wiser, but his bones are the same,” alongside shaggy sidekick Chewbacca Ford said. “He’s not selling real estate (Peter Mayhew). now. He’s the same guy — only with the “They wanted to know if I didn’t like passage of 30 years. While we do not sit something, and we would talk about down and describe what he’s been doing ways to fix it,” Ford said. “That’s what

we do. It’s a collaborative process. There wasn’t much. (Lawrence) Kasdan was back. He was one of the writers from the original films. He has a keen understanding on how the beast works, so I think they produced a script that — in my mind — was very easy to work with.”

Once he was back in a galaxy far, far away, Ford’s reprisal was stopped short on the second day of production last year when a door on the Millennium Falcon set outside London fell on him.

He broke his left leg and was grounded for months. The unexpected time off proved more frustrating than fruitful.

“I had been ready,” he said. “I didn’t have much to think about. I think it gave J.J. some more time to think about some of the scenes.”

After his work on the postponed production eventually wrapped up, Ford endured another mishap involving a flying machine. The aeronautical aficionado suffered several injuries when his vintage plane’s engine failed and crashed in Santa Monica, Calif.

The accidents haven’t stopped Ford from returning to the sky.

“Oh, (expletive) no, I fly all the time,” said Ford, with his eyes glowing again. “I want to spend more time flying. That’s what I want to do.”

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 10, 2015 - E13

AT THE LINCOLN

DINING GUIDE Dine at the Majestic

The Spotlight Film Festival is a series of documentaries shining a light on issues that impact the lives of Skagit County residents.

Each film highlights a different topic, followed by a community panel or discussion.

Join us as we dive into these deeply relevant topics affecting our community.

December 10: “The Raising of America - The Signature Hour” “The Signature Hour” interweaves discoveries from neuroscience with the stories of families and communities struggling to provide the nurturing environments all babies and young children need to thrive — while too often hindered by social conditions that put their children on low developmental paths.

It reveals how stressors on parents can drip down on their infants and young children, literally altering the wiring of their developing brains with enduring effects.

Why are so many children faring so poorly in the richest nation on the planet? How might we do better?

Join on for the film and stay for a community discussion. Free admission, $5 suggested donation.

the Met’s heralded “Live in HD” series, seen by opera lovers in movie theaters around the world. Adults and children alike were enchanted by the whimsical humor and breathtaking puppetry of Julie Taymor’s hit production, presented in a shortened Englishlanguage version. Under the baton of Maestro James Levine, a winning ensemble cast — including Nathan Gunn, Ying Huang, Matthew Polenzani, Erika Miklosa, and René Pape — brings fresh life to Mozart’s timeless fairy tale.

23 adults; $19 seniors; $16 students with $2 off for Lincoln Theatre members plus applicable fees. Discounted season passes available.

‘Suffragette’

7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 14

Maud (Carey Mulligan) is a working wife and mother whose life is forever changed when she is secretly recruited to join the U.K.’s growing suffragette movement.

Starring Meryl Streep, Anne-Marie Duff, Ben Whishaw, Carey Mulligan and Helena Bonham Carter.

Rated PG-13. $10 general; ‘The Magic Flute’ $9 seniors, students and Encore Presentation active military; $8 members; $7 children 12 and under.

12:55 p.m.

Sunday bargain prices: $8 Saturday, Dec. 12 This was the groundbreak- general; $6 members; $5 ing broadcast that launched children 12 and under.

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E14 - Thursday, December 10, 2015

MOVIES REVIEW

MINI-REVIEWS Compiled from news services.

Ratings are 1 to 4 stars.

This photo provided by Paramount Pictures shows, Jeremy Strong (from left) as Vinny Peters, Rafe Spall as Danny Moses, Hamish Linklater as Porter Collins, Steve Carell as Mark Baum, Jeffry Griffin as Chris and Ryan Gosling as Jared Vennett, in the film, “The Big Short,” from Paramount Pictures and Regency Enterprises.

Jaap Buitendijk Paramount Pictures via AP

‘Big Short’ will make you laugh, make you furious There’s also a fantastic sound design that goes along with the editing, blendHHH 1⁄2 ing voices and sound effects rhythmiCast: Ryan Gosling, Steve In adapting the 2010 financial crically throughout.

Carell, Christian Bale sis book “The Big Short: Inside the To lesser effect is McKay’s reliance Directed by: Adam McKay Doomsday Machine” by Michael on quick cuts of contextless images to Running time: 2 hours, 10 Lewis, the director of “Anchorman” create a sense of the era. Images of solminutes doesn’t seem like the first choice. diers are back to back with celebrities, Rated: R for pervasive lanAnd yet, it becomes clear that Adam family vignettes and small-town scenes. guage and some sexuality/ McKay, known for his comedic work It jogs the neurons that might have nudity. on “Saturday Night Live” and with repressed the pop culture of 2007-2008, Will Ferrell, is clearly the right man for but it’s a bit much. the job, because the humor is absoluteSteve Carell’s grieving, rage-filled the wall, stylistically speaking. ly necessary to cut through the rage Mark Baum is the conscience of the “The Big Short” is post-modern to you might feel at the material. film. As he talks to more and more The film clearly lays out the intrica- the max, self-reflective, a hodge-podge bankers, brokers, real-estate agents, of fast editing and fast talking, breakcies of the 2008 global financial crisis, and strippers with mortgages on muldemonstrating the ways in which bank- ing the fourth wall again and again to tiple properties, his face seems to get ers wrung money out of a housing mar- keep the story moving along, to clarify redder and redder, his boiling point things, or to say “that really happened,” breached. ket made out of wishes and dreams.

“The Big Short” is anchored by big or “that didn’t really happen.”

He’s never one to mince words, and McKay never dumbs down the name stars in goofy hair and accents, is the loud-mouthed canary in the coal explanations of the complicated finan- mine. Still, when he’s proven right and including Ryan Gosling, Steve Carell and Christian Bale, who are uniformly cial products, but he does take the time the sky has fallen, there’s no sense of to jazz up things like “synthetic collat- victory, just disappointment. It’s as if excellent all around as the loners, idiot-savants and misanthropes of Wall eralized debt obligation” with cheeky they took these high risk bets hoping celebrity cameos.

Street. they might be wrong.

The rapid-fire editing creates They are the tenuously connected As we know, they weren’t wrong. some clever sequences where he cuts individuals who envisioned the specThe irony is that our heroes end up tacular crash of a housing market built between the different groups having making a huge windfall off the events similar reactions to events in the finan- that precipitated economic ruin for the on the rickety foundations of subcial market, united in sentiment. prime mortgages propped up by false larger population.

They are cut as if talking to each ratings.

“The Big Short,” while funny, builds If that sounds like too much wonky other, even if they’re on completely to a dour crescendo that feels all too different sides of the country, and it’s financial jargon, not to worry, McKay familiar, managing to enrage anew takes a speedy rat-a-tat-tat approach to an ingenious way to link the disparate with the hindsight-clear reminder of the material, and throws everything at groups. our not-so-distant past.

By KATIE WALSH Tribune News Service

THE BIG SHORT

“Burnt” — Sobered up a decade after his drug-fueled flameout, a visionary chef (Bradley Cooper) hopes his comeback can lead to a three-star Michelin rating.

As an often cliche-riddled tale of redemption, “Burnt” is the equivalent of a sleek, well-lit, trendy restaurant serving up mildly creative dishes on an otherwise predictable menu. ComedyDrama, R, 100 minutes.

HH “Bridge of Spies” — Steven Spielberg has taken the largely forgotten 1960 exchange of U.S. and Soviet spies and turned it into a gripping character study and thriller that feels a bit like a John Le Carre adaptation if Frank Capra were at the controls. Tom Hanks, in full modern-day Jimmy Stewart mode, stars as the genial U.S. negotiator. Historical thriller, PG-13, 142 minutes HHHH “Chi-Raq” — Spike Lee’s update of the Greek comedy “Lysistrata” is a shattering, thunderous wake-up alarm -- a call to lay down arms aimed at the gun culture, the gang culture, the government and a society that doesn’t always care about killings as long as those killings are taking place OVER THERE. Satire, R, 127 minutes. HHH½ “Experimenter” — Peter Sarsgaard’s portrayal of Stanley Milgram, the professor who told his subjects to send increasingly painful electric shocks to testtakers, sometimes seems more about the mannerisms and the tics than giving us true insight into the character. Writer-director Michael Almereyda has a seemingly endless array of stylistic tricks up his sleeve, but when you have such rich material to work with, pushing it to the next level isn’t necessarily the best choice.

Biographical drama, PG-13, 90 minutes. HHH½ “Heist” — It’s hard to recall a more terrible performance in Robert De Niro’s career than his weirdly offkey work as a very, very bad

casino owner in this stilted and dopey thriller. The screenplay is so clunky, not a single cast member manages to sound believable.

Action thriller, R, 90 minutes Zero stars.

“Legend” — Playing twin British gangsters in 1960s London, Tom Hardy makes some bold and always entertaining if not entirely successful choices. The fictionalized version of the terrifying, violent and twisted Krays manages to be pedestrian and derivative for long stretches. Crime biography, R, 131 minutes.

HH½ “Meadowland” — Olivia Wilde and Luke Wilson deliver authentic performances as parents dealing with loss in different ways. It is a well-photographed and sometimes surprising story, a character study about what happens to a marriage when a child has gone missing and in all likelihood will never be found. Drama, R, 95 minutes. HHH “I Smile Back” — Known for comedy, Sarah Silverman is unforgettable in delivering a brave, vulnerable, irony-free dramatic performance that chilled me to the bone. She plays a wife and mother whose addiction is wreaking havoc on herself and just about everyone who matters to her. Drama, R, 85 minutes HHH “Our Brand Is Crisis” — This mixed-bag satire stars Sandra Bullock as a washed-up U.S. political consultant recruited to help a long-shot candidate for president of Bolivia. Its ambitions veer wildly from sharp political insight to slapstick farce to inspirational semi-autobiography, but it never finds solid ground in any of those genres. (Comedy-Drama, R, 107 minutes. HH “Secret in Their Eyes” — Three members of a counterterrorism unit (Julia Roberts, Nicole Kidman and Chiwetel Ejiofor) are haunted for years by a devastating crime and the horrible injustice that followed. Roberts and Ejiofor are especially strong in this powerful gut punch of a thriller. Drama, PG-13, 111 minutes. HHH ½

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 10, 2015 - E15

MOVIES

MUSIC REVIEWS

(NR): Saturday: 12:55 AT AREA THEATERS In the Heart of the Sea (PG-13): FridaySaturday: 1:00, 3:35, 6:30, 9:05; SundayThursday: 1:00, 3:35, 6:30 ANACORTES CINEMAS The Good Dinosaur (PG): Friday: 1:10, Dec. 11-17 3:25, 6:40, 8:50; Saturday: 3:25, 6:40, The Metropolitan Opera: Magic Flute 8:50; Sunday-Wednesday: 1:10, 3:25, (NR): Saturday: 12:55 6:40; Thursday: 1:10, 3:25 In the Heart of the Sea (PG-13): FridaySaturday: 12:55, 3:35, 6:30, 9:05; Sunday- The Night Before (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:20, 3:45, 6:50, 9:10; Sunday-Thursday: Thursday: 12:55, 3:35, 6:30 1:20, 3:45, 6:50 The Good Dinosaur (PG): Friday: 12:45, 360-279-2226 3:00, 6:50, 9:00; Saturday: 3:00, 6:50, 9:00; Sunday-Wednesday: 12:45, 3:00, STANWOOD CINEMAS 6:50; Thursday: 12:45, 3:00 Dec. 11-17 Suffragette (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: Sisters (R): Thursday: 7:00 (1:05), (3:25), 6:40, 9:10 Star Wars: The Force Awakens (PG-13): Sun - Thu: (1:05), (3:25), 6:40 Thursday: 7:00 Star Wars: The Force Awakens (PG-13): Star Wars: The Force Awakens 3D (PGThursday: 7:00 13): Thursday: 7:00 360-293-7000 The Metropolitan Opera: Magic Flute (NR): Saturday: 12:55 CONCRETE THEATER In the Heart of the Sea (PG-13): FridayDec. 11-13 Spectre (PG-13): Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Satur- Wednesday: 1:10, 9:15; Thursday: 1:10, 6:40, 9:15 day: 5 p.m., 8 p.m.; Sunday: 5 p.m.

In the Heart of the Sea 3D (PG-13): Friday-Wednesday: 3:45, 6:40; Thursday: BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN 3:45 Oak Harbor Krampus (PG-13): Friday-Wednesday: Dec. 11-13 Love the Coopers (PG-13) and The Night 1:20, 4:05, 6:35, 9:10; Thursday: 1:20, Before (R). The first movie starts at 6 p.m. 4:05, 9:40 The Good Dinosaur (PG): Friday-Wednesday: 1:40, 3:50, 6:50, 9:00; Thursday: CASCADE MALL 1:40, 3:50 THEATERS The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 Burlington (PG-13): Friday: 1:00, 4:00, 6:30, 9:20; For showings: 888-AMC-4FUN (888-262Saturday: 4:00, 6:30, 9:20; Sunday4386) Wednesday: 1:00, 4:00, 6:30, 9:20; Thursday: 1:00, 4:00, 9:20 OAK HARBOR CINEMAS The Night Before (R): Friday-Thursday: Dec. 11-17 1:30, 3:55, 6:45, 9:05 Star Wars: The Force Awakens (PG-13): 360-629-0514 Thursday: 7:00 The Metropolitan Opera: Magic Flute

“Spectre” — The 24th James Bond film is solidly in the middle of the all-time rankings, which means it’s still a slick, beautifully photographed, action-packed, international thriller with a number of ludicrously entertaining set pieces. Daniel Craig remains a tightly coiled, deadpan funny 007, and as the sadistic villain, Christoph Waltz is wonderfully insane. Action thriller, PG-13, 148 minutes. HHH “Spotlight” — A fine team of actors, including Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams and Mark Ruffalo, portrays the fine team of Boston Globe journalists that investigated child abuse by priests in 2001. It’s one of the smartest and most involving movies of the years. Historical drama, R, 128 minutes. HHH½ “The Good Dinosaur” — Partnered up with a boy, a timid dinosaur tries to steer clear of a seemingly endless supply of dangerous creatures. One strange, aggressively gross and dark adventure, this second-level Pixar family film could give the little ones some serious nightmares.

Animated adventure, PG, 95 minutes. HH “The Night Before” — Joseph Gordon-

Levitt, Seth Rogen and Anthony Mackie play longtime friends who get into all sorts of misadventures on one crazy Christmas Eve of self-discovery. At times, it’s really funny. More often, it’s “shocking” for the sake of shock value, gross for the sake of being gross, and stupid-goofy without much of a payoff. Comedy, R, 101 minutes. HH “The Peanuts Movie” — A CGI, 3-D feature about Charlie Brown and his gang could have been a recipe for disaster, but to my great relief, this is a meticulously faithful and clearly loving tribute to America’s favorite blockhead. It’s a sweet, funny, smart, genuine all-ages movie with simple, timeless messages. Animated, G, 88 minutes. HHH½ “Trumbo” — It’s great fun to watch the great Bryan Cranston chewing the scenery as Dalton Trumbo, the screenwriter imprisoned for refusing to testify about his communist ties in 1947. This is a corny, wellmade B-movie about an A-list screenwriter who had to take jobs writing B-movies after he was blacklisted. Historical drama, R, 124 minutes. HHH½

ENYA “Dark Sky Island” — By virtue of sales, Enya is one of the world’s bestselling musical artists. And yet “New Age” and “world” music — genres with which she is associated — are still dirty words in criticism.

But there’s no denying the listenability of her music, which she without fail performs entirely herself (with the help of constant production partners Nicky and Roma Ryan).

The Irish superstar singer regularly turns out vocally layered, synthesizerfueled and ambient recordings, with hits including her breakout 1988 song, “Orinoco Flow,” and “Only Time” from her 2000 album, “A Day Without Rain.”

Her newest album, “Dark Sky Island,” is a welcome return to form after a 10-year silence punctuated only by a wintertheme 2008 release, “And Winter Came … .”

“Echoes in the Rain” is the “Dark Sky” single, a buoyant, rhythmic track that features pizzicato strings and her piano work. It focuses on the album’s central themes — traveling through time, journeying through life, and the power of memory. Another standout is “Even in the Shadows,” where she gets excellent double-bass support from Eddie Lee, dutifully keeping time and anchoring the song.

Enya’s songwriting is remarkable, if challenging to decipher on first listen, but the ephemeral, gauzy ethereality of her recordings wraps you in sonic solace.

Enya’s expertise, and it’s not slight, lies somewhere between yoga music and meditative chant. n Bill Chenevert, The Philadelphia Inquirer

of diversity continues throughout the set, with the singer also tackling numbers by Willie Dixon, Hank Williams, and Los Lobos.

Only Gillian Welch and David Rawlings’ “Elvis Presley Blues” strains for effect — not Jones’ empathetic reading or the song itself, but the arrangement, which is built on a pulsating riff that sounds uncharacteristically synthetic.

But the album gets right back on track with the folk standard “He Was a Friend of Mine,” in which just a solo acoustic guitar evocatively mirrors Jones’ tender vocal. n Nick Cristiano, The Philadelphia Inquirer

COOL UNCLE “Cool Uncle” — With angelic voice, blue-eyed soul, and jazz both smooth and funky, Bobby Caldwell is a godsend.

Yet, other than his 1978 world smash, “What You Won’t Do for Love,” his work has rarely entered pop’s mainstream beyond sampling.

Now he has created the act Cool Uncle, and its namesake album, with Jack Splash, a hip-hop producer/composer whose credits include Mayer Hawthorne and Kendrick Lamar.

Their vision is retro without sounding kitsch, with sonic beds that give this vocalist and his guests a sympathetic, dynamic backing.

Caldwell is in exquisite voice throughout Cool Uncle, whether in the reverie “Game Over” or the optimistic disco-jazz of “My Beloved.”

Guests such as Hawthorne, CeeLo Green, and Jessie Ware stop to visit Uncle, and their stays are pleasant — especially in the buoyant “Break Away” — with Deniece Williams’ gospel stop on “Breaking Up” the standout. But Caldwell is best on his own.

On “The Cat is Back” and the loungehopping “Lonely,” he’s front, center, and funky in the good company of a dynamic producer. Here’s hoping Cool Uncle stays in circulation.

TOM JONES “Long Lost Suitcase”— “Long Lost Suitcase” continues Tom Jones’ late-life effort to show he’s more than just the purveyor of cheerfully cheesy pop hits like “What’s New Pussycat?” and “Delilah.”

Working for the third time with producer Ethan Johns, the 75-year-old Welshman again comes across as an n A.D. Amorosi, The Philadelphia Inquirer Americana master rather than a Vegas showman.

The music is rootsy and organic. The stark country balladry of Willie Nelson’s “Opportunity to Cry” rubs up against the exuberant hoedown of “Honey Honey” (a duet with Irish spitfire Imelda May).

A down-home take on the Rolling Stones’ “Factory Girl” segues into the raucous electric blues of Billy Boy Arnold’s “I Wish You Would,” with Jones flashing some of that old brio. That kind

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