360 December 17, 2015

NORTHWEST BALLET THEATER PRESENTS ‘THE NUTCRACKER’ This Weekend, Page 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday December 17, 2015

ON STAGE

TUNING UP The Troy Fair Band plays Loco Billy’s in Stanwood on Friday PAGE 9

The Debaucherauntes play The Depot in Anacortes on Saturday PAGE 8

MOVIES “Stars Wars: The Force Awaknes”: The Force is back PAGE 14

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, December 17, 2015

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

Tuning Up / Page 9

This Week’s

Jackpots

DECEMBER 12TH LYNDEN, WA $26,609.64 88 FORTUNES

DECEMBER 7 TH LANGLEY, BC $4,456

DECEMBER 11TH BELLINGHAM, WA $10,025

TRIPLE FORTUNE DRAGON

EAGLE’S HERITAGE

DECEMBER 7 TH WHITE ROCK, BC $5,010

DECEMBER 12TH VICTORIA, BC $4,377.16

RICH GIRL

$5 MELTDOWN

DECEMBER 9TH EVERSON, WA $5,448.60

DECEMBER 12TH BELLINGHAM, WA $5,035.8O

WICKED WINNINGS

TIGRESS

DECEMBER 10TH VANCOUVER, BC $5,474.84

DECEMBER 13TH KAMLOOPS, BC $10,304.14

Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274

WARRIOR LEGACY

88 FORTUNES

Mailing address P.O. Box 578 Mount Vernon, WA 98273

DECEMBER 11TH LYTTON, BC $4,383.77 COPPER DROPPER

181

Jackpot Winners This Week

The Atlantics play the Edison Inn on Sunday night

Inside

SUBMISSIONS Email features@skagitpublishing.com Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday for the following Thursday edition Phone 360-416-2135

Out & About.....................................4-5 Christmas Events................................ 6 Hot Tickets.......................................... 7 On Stage, Tuning Up........................8-9 Travel................................................. 10 New on DVD..................................... 11 Get Involved...................................... 12 At the Lincoln.................................... 13 Movies..........................................14-15

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 17, 2015 - E3

THIS WEEKENDin the area ‘The Nutcracker’ Northwest Ballet Theater will present “The Nutcracker” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way in Mount Vernon. $24-$35. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

WINTER SOLSTICE SOUND PRAYER Welcome

BILINGUAL MUSEUM TOUR The Museum of

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, drumming and chanting to sound a prayer for peace and well-being for the world.

Bring a small votive candle holder. $10 per person, $15 per family. RSVP: 360-464-2229 or anacortescenterforhappiness.org.

Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner, will offer a Bilingual Spanish Exhibition Tour at 1:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. Join educator Melody Young for a guided tour and 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 monamuseum.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: Dec. 19: Winter Birds of the Skagit: with Skagit Valley College instructor and Eagle Watcher volunteer Steve Glenn.

MOVIE NIGHT Enjoy a free screening of “Strange Brew” at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at the Center for Spiritual Living, 1508 N. 18th St., Mount Vernon. Bring your own pillows/blankets/snacks/water bottles (no other beverages permitted). Not handicapped accessible. Donations accepted. 360202-2329.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, December 17, 2015

OUT & ABOUT ART IN THE ART BAR: Paintings and prints by Mount Vernon artist Daniel Tuttle are on display through December in the Lincoln Theatre Art Bar, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. Tuttle’s recent work includes multirun blockprints and acrylic paintings, including landscapes of the mountains, bays and rivers of northwest Washington. 360-336-8955 or lincoln theatre.org.

ACRYLIC PAINTINGS

BILINGUAL MUSEUM TOUR: The Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner, will offer a Bilingual Spanish Exhibition Tour at 1:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. Join educator Melody Young for a guided tour and discussion of the museum’s 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.

INVITATIONAL ART SHOW: “Objectification 8” is on display through Dec. 31 at Smith & Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison. Featuring some 50 local and regional artists, the annual show focuses on functional and threedimensional artwork in a variety of mediums — sculpture, ceramics, glass art, mixed media and more.

Purchased items can be taken home immediately. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

360-766-6230 or smithandvallee. 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. 360-391-2691 or theshopconway.com.

ACRYLIC PAINTINGS: A show of new acrylic paintings by Jennifer Bowman continues through Jan. 26 at Scott Milo Gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

Also showing: acrylics by Cynthia Richardson, oils by Sandy Byers, photographs by Lewis Jones and Randy Dana and pastels by Barbara Benedetti Newton, as well as new tables and baskets by Lanny Bergner and new tables by Gary Leake. Gallery hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday or by appointment. 360293-6938 or scottmilo.com.

YEAR OF LIGHT: Allied Arts of Whatcom County has partnered with SPIE and the International Year of Light to create an art exhibit pairing light and technology, continuing through Dec. 18, at the Allied Arts Gallery, 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham. Artists were invited to present work that exemplifies, honors or speaks to the importance of light. Artists include Christopher Morrison, Kenni Merritt, Bonnie Abbasi, Jennifer and Tom Dolese, Pat Wickline, Carole McNeese, Ellen Clark and Eric Brown. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.

visited Giverny, Eterat and Paris last May. From traditional to modern, their work features subjects made famous by the Impressionists. For information, including gallery hours and directions: 360734-1340 or fourthcornerframes. com.

SMALL ART WORKS: Celebrating its 25th year, “Honey, I Shrunk The Art” continues 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.

A show of new acrylic paintings by Jennifer Bowman continues through Jan. 26 at Scott Milo Gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes (see listing for more details). to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. 360676-8548 or alliedarts.org.

“IN MONET’S FOOTSTEPS”: The show continues through Dec. 31 at Fourth Corner Frames &

Gallery, 311 W. Holly St., Bellingham. Following in Monet’s footprints, a group of regional artists

LUMMI MOUNTAIN IN ART: The Lummi Invitational art show featuring “the singular power of Lummi Mountain and how its presence plays out in the art of Northwest painters” is on display through Dec. 27 at i.e. gallery, 5800 Cains Court, Edison. “Called Cloud Catcher by some and considered sacred ground by the Original People, Lummi Mountain is there through the decades in the art-making of the locals.” Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday or by appointment. 206-437-8534, 360-488-3458 or ieedison.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 17, 2015 - E5

OUT & ABOUT PAINTINGS EXPRESS LOSS: A show of paintings by Camano Island artist Michelle Bear continues through Dec. 24 at Gallery Cygnus, 109 Commercial, La Conner. Bear’s paintings are a “expression of loss. Her grounding is a sense of place, a habitat that’s damaged and still wildly beautiful.

It is identified with wildlife that suffers, and she gives that loss a voice through powerful images that symbolize what we’re missing.” Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, or by appointment. 360-708-4787 or gallerycygnus.com.

“INSPIRED BY NATURE”: A show featuring two-dimensional work by Philip McCracken, threedimensional work by Peregrine O’Gormley and fine jewelry by Doug Burton continues through the end of the year at Burton Gallery, 620 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Gallery hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 360-293-6469 or burton jewelers.com.

Wise”: Wise’s quilts have a “sense of depth that goes beyond the surface. Elements seem to float above the surface or recede into the depths of the quilt. She feels compelled to assign a private narrative to every piece, starting with a title and story, and building the work from there.”

“Best of the Festival 2015”: The first floor of the Gaches Mansion hosts the blue ribbon quilts, wearables and fiber art from the 2015 Quilt & Fiber Arts Festival.

Christmas Dolls: Christmasthemed dolls created by Gloria Burke are on display.

The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Admission: $7, $5 students 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” continues through Jan. 3 at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner. Curated by Gail Tremblay OUTDOOR SCULPTURE EXHIB- and Miles R. Miller, the exhibit IT: The La Conner Outdoor Sculp- examines the evolution of the ture Exhibit is on display at public Contemporary Native American locations around La Conner. The Arts Movement and the works annual juried exhibition features of artists living in the Northwest, work by some of the Northwest’s with emphasis on the Puget Sound most accomplished artists. For and Plateau regions. Museum information, including a map of hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday the sculptures and works available through Saturday, and noon to 5 for sale: 360-466-3125 or townof p.m. Sunday and Monday. Free. laconner.org.

360-466-4446 or monamuseum.org.

QUILTS & MORE: Several new exhibits of quilts, wearables and other fiber arts continue through Dec. 30 at the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, 703 S. Second St., La Conner: “Great Lakes Seaway: War of 1812 International Challenge”: This traveling exhibition sponsored by the Great Lakes Seaway Trail features 26 quilts, newly made but true to 1812-period quilting patterns, fabrics and colors. Interpretive panels tell each quilt’s “story” — some real, some imagined — and its relevance to what many historians consider America’s second war for independence.

“Illusions & Shadows: Colleen

“GRAND COULEE TO GRUNGE: Eight Stories That Changed The World”: The exhibit continues through Dec. 31 at the Skagit County Historical Museum, 501 S. Fourth St., La Conner. The exhibit, on loan from the Secretary of State’s office, focuses on eight key stories that helped put Washington on the global map. $5 adults, $4 seniors and ages 6-12, $10 families.

Free for members and ages 5 and younger. 360-466-3365 or skagit county.net/museum.

“POPTICS”: A show of acrylic paintings by Bellingham artist Rob Gischer will open with a reception from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8, and continue through Jan. 30 at Fourth

Corner Frames, 311 W. Holly St., Bellingham. “Poptics” is the new word chosen to describe the fusion of color, line, optical illusion and geometry Gischer has meshed into each of his paintings. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Monday through Saturday. 360734-1340 or fourthcorneframes. com.

NORTHWEST ART: A trio of new exhibitions will open with a reception at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, and continue through March 17 at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday. Free admission. 360-4664446 or monamuseum.org.

“April Surgent: Observations of Life on Ice”: As a recipient of the National Science Foundation’s Antarctic Artist and Writers program, Surgent conducted eight weeks of fieldwork in the Antarctic during the Austral summer of 2013. Surgent’s cameo glass engravings on layered-glass panels depict her experiences and impressions of the Antarctic and the work happening there.

“Here and There: Topographic Conversations with Morris Graves”: “Here and There” engages viewers in a discussion between Graves, eight contemporary artists and their environments. In addition to works by the eight artists, the exhibit features two pieces created by Graves while he was living in both Skagit and Humboldt counties. Not only did these artists live in the same topographical regions as Graves, but like him they contemplate the natural world and its ability to inspire creativity. Also included are several photos of Graves taken by Imogen Cunningham and Mary Randlett.

Participating artists include Lanny Bergner, Ann Chadwick Reid, Eve Deisher, Lori Goodman, Leslie Kenneth Price, Julie McNiel, Allen Moe and Emily Silver. An artist walk-through will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9.

“Appassionata: The Art of Jacqueline Barnett 1990-2015”: Often used as a musical term, appassionata refers to an intensely

impassioned period or person.

Curated by Seattle gallery owner Francine Seders, the exhibit includes dynamic artworks that evoke both joy and pain. Seders chose oil paintings because they “reflect an intense emotional state of mind (while) their composition and play of colors give them strength and stability.” Barnett’s bold colors, stable compositions and fluid brushstrokes reflect emotions experienced by all individuals. A book signing will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9.

LECTURES AND TALKS LOCAL RADIO: “Speak Up! Speak Out!,” a half-hour weekly show committed to community, peace, justice and nonviolence 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). speakupspeak outradio.org.

MORE FUN 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, drumming and chanting to sound a prayer for peace and well-being the world over. Bring a small votive candle holderr. $10 per person, $15 per family. RSVP: 360-464-2229 or anacortescenterforhappiness.org.

MOVIE NIGHT: Enjoy a free screening of “Strange Brew” at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at the Center for Spiritual Living, 1508 N. 18th St., Mount Vernon. Bring your own pillows/blankets/snacks/ water bottles (no other beverages permitted). Not handicapped accessible. Donations accepted.

SPOTLIGHT FILM FESTIVAL: The Lincoln Theatre is hosting a series of documentaries on issues that impact the lives of Skagit County residents at 7 p.m. Thursdays, at 712 S. First St., Mount PHILOSOPHY IN CINEMA: Vernon. Each film highlights a “Seriously Funny: Humor, Film different topic, followed by a comand Philosophy”: Enjoy a conver- munity panel or discussion. $5 sugsation with Everett Community gested donation. 360-336-8955 or College philosophy instructor lincolntheatre.org. Next up: Mike VanQuickenborne at 7 p.m.

Jan. 14: “Dark Side of the Full Saturday, Jan. 9, at the Anacortes Moon”: The film delves into the Public Library, 1220 10th St., Ana- unseen world of maternal mental cortes. Presented by the Anacortes health in the U.S. and exposes chapter of the Socrates Café and the disconnect within the medical Humanities Washington. 360-299- community to effectively screen, 0415 or benmcbroom@yahoo.com. refer and treat the 1.3 million mothers affected each year by PLAYS postpartum depression.

48-HOUR THEATER FEST: MUSIC AND MEMORIES: The iDiOM Theater will present its fourth annual “Music and Memo44th 48-Hour Theater Festival, with performances at 7:30 p.m. and ries” benefit for The Bradford House and Gentry House will be 9:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, held at 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, at Jan. 2-3, at 1418 Cornwall Ave., Swinomish Casino & Lodge, 12885 Bellingham. The festival features six randomly drawn teams of writ- Casino Drive, Anacortes. Pete Leinonen’s Salon du Swing band will ers, directors and actors writing, be the featured entertainment for memorizing, rehearsing and performing six new plays on a theme the evening. The event will include dinner, music and raffles, as well within 24 hours, then reshuffling and repeating the process a second as live and silent auctions. $50. day. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 Sponsorships are available. 360at door, available at idiomtheater. 428-5972 or skagitadult com. dayprogram.org.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, December 17, 2015

CHRISTMAS CONCERT: Enjoy a Celtic Christmas Celebration with violinist Geoffrey Castle at 7 p.m. today, Dec. 17, at the Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete. $10-$20.

360-941-0403 or concretetheatre.com.

SEASONAL SINGALONG: Share songs and play child-friendly instruments at 11:15 a.m. Friday, Dec. 18, at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Everyone welcome, especially families with children ages birth to 5 years. Free. RSVP: 360-3763826.

“I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS”: Taproot Theatre presents a Christmas comedy at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, at the Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $10. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre. org.

THE NUTCRACKER NORTHWEST BALLET DECEMBER 19 & 20 AURELIO MARTINEZ MUSIC FROM HONDURAS JANUARY 30 FAMILY CONCERT SKAGIT SYMPHONY JANUARY 31

360.416.7727

mcintyrehall.org

Harbor Lutheran Church, 1253 NW Second Ave., Oak Harbor. The concert will feature OHLC’s Senior Choir, Men’s Chorus, women’s vocal group Angeli, the Oak Harbor Community Band and other special music including sing-along carols. 360-679-1561 or oakharborlutheran.org.

HOLIDAY CONCERT: The Shelter Bay Chorus will present its annual Holiday Concert, “Sing With Joy, It’s Christmas Time,” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, and 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse, 1000 Shoshone Drive, La Conner. $10 suggested donation. 360223-3230 or facebook.com/ shelterbaychorus.

AN ELVIS FAMILY CHRISTMAS: with Danny Vernon, 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, Swinomish Casino, 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes. $12 adults, $5 ages 17 and younger. 888-2888883 or swinomishcasino andlodge.com.

JINGLE BELL DASH: The AAUW-Anacortes 5K Run/Walk and Kids Dash to Santa will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at Seafarer’s Memorial Park, 601 Seafarers Way, Anacortes. Registration begins at 9 a.m. followed by the Kids’ Dash at 10:30 a.m. and the 5K at 11 a.m. Registration: $30 ages 18 and older, $25 ages 7 to 17; Kids Dash to Santa for ages 6 and younger, free with a nonperishable food item for the Salvation Army Food Bank. 360-3913188 or jinglebelldash anacortes.net.

DROP & SHOP: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, Skagit Valley Family YMCA Activity Center and Pool, 215 E. Fulton St., Mount Vernon. Kids ages 3-12 can make holiday crafts and play games while their parents go holiday shopping. Children ages 6-12 will have the option to go swimming. $15-$25, $7-$15 for additional siblings. Prior registration required: 360-336-9622 or j.farmer@skagitymca.org.

PANCAKES & SANTA: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, Stanwood Community and Senior Center, 7430 276th St. Includes pancake breakfast, kids’ crafts and a visit with Santa. Bring a camera, an appetite and your holiday spirit. $5. 360-629-7403.

CHRISTMAS VOCALS: The Stanwood-Camano Chorale, with vocal ensem-

YULETIDE CONCERT: “Jazzin’ with the Classics for Christmas”: with Linda Tsatsanis, soprano; Jeffrey Cohan, flute; Martin Lund, piano, clarinet and flute; and Tom Collier, vibraphone: 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 21, Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $15 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger.

360-629-6110 or candle lightseattle.org.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN THE AREA ble Trouvere, will present “A Light In The Darkness” at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at Stanwood United Methodist Church, 27128 102nd Drive NW. Advent and Christmas music will be featured. A freewill offering will be accepted.

BOWMAN BAY HOLIDAY: Enjoy the holiday season on the shores of Bowman Bay from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at Deception Pass State Park, 41020 Highway 20, Oak Harbor. See the CCC shelters lit up for Christmas and warmed with fires in the fireplaces.

Greet Santa and pose for photos with him. Enjoy local music, hot chocolate and cider, handmade wreaths, baked goods, crafts for the kids and more. $10 parking fee per car or free with Discover Pass. 360-675-3767.

“DECK THE DOCKS” Check out boats decorated and brightly lit for the holidays from 4 to 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 19, at Cap Sante Marina, 1019 Q Ave., Anacortes. Participate in the “cocoa crawl” and stay warm sipping hot chocolate at different locations on the dock. Santa also will make an appearance. anacortes.

“THE NUTCRACKER”: org.

Northwest Ballet Theatre,

MAKE & TAKE GIFTS: Children can create lastminute gifts for the holidays on Tuesday, Dec. 22, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Ana7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 cortes. Grades K-2: 11 a.m. p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19-20, McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. Col- to 1 p.m.; grades 3-6: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. All materials will lege Way, Mount Vernon. $24-$35. 360-416-7727, ext. be provided. Free. Registration is not required.

2, or mcintyrehall.org.

CELTIC CHRISTMAS CONCERT: “A Celtic Christmas with The Beggar Boys,” 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 415 S. 18th St., Mount Vernon. $20, $15 seniors, free for ages 11 and younger. 425-224-6283 or beggarboysmtvernon. brownpapertickets.com.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT: Enjoy an afternoon of Christmas music at 2 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 20, at Oak

FAMILY FUN TIME: 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22, La Conner Regional Library, 614 Morris St., La Conner.

Games, crafts, stories and more. Free. 360-466-3352 or lclib.lib.wa.us.

CHRISTMAS MOVIE: Enjoy a free screening of “It’s a Wonderful Life” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22, at the Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete.

360-941-0403 or concretetheatre.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 17, 2015 - E7

HOT TICKETS X: Dec. 18, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 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 showboxonline.com.

AMY SCHUMER: Dec. 31, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

G-EAZY: Jan 7, WaMu Theater, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com.

FOREVERLAND (Tribute to Michael Jackson): Jan. 9, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

JANET JACKSON: Jan. 13, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS: Jan. 14, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

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

TRIBAL SEEDS: Jan. 21, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

SUPER DIAMOND (Tribute to Neil Diamond): Jan. 22, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

STS9: Jan. 23, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

NEVER SHOUT NEVER: Jan. 26, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxon line.com.

“FLASHDANCE: THE MUSICAL”: Jan. 27, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-7346080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT: Jan. 31, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

LETTUCE: Feb. 4, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BUILT TO SPILL: Feb. 5-6, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

BLACK SABBATH: Feb. 6, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

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

INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS: Feb. 18, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

BORGEOUS & MORGAN PAGE: Feb. 20, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

TAKE 6: Feb. 20, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakerthe atre.com.

CRADLE OF FILTH: Feb. 23, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

GALACTIC: Feb. 26, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BARCELONA: Feb. 26, The Crocodile, Seattle. 877-987-6487 or thecrocodile.com.

GINO VANNELLI: Feb. 26-27, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

PAPADOSIO: Feb. 27, The Showbox, Seat-

PAULA POUNDSTONE Jan. 29, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org. tle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

KEYS N KRATES: Feb. 28, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

ST. LUCIA: March 2, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

MARCHFOURTH! MARCHING BAND: March 5, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

HELLOWEEN: March 6, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

AOIFE O’DONOVAN: March 6, Columbia City Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com.

NIGHTWISH: March 7, 2016, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxon line.com.

MUTEMATH: March 8, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

DISTURBED: March 12, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

SOLAS: March 17, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakerthe atre.com.

CRAIG FERGUSON: March 18, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mount bakertheatre.com.

DAUGHTER: March 19, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA: March 20, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-7346080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

MASTERS OF ILLUSION: March 24, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation. com.

TONIGHT ALIVE/SET IT OFF: March 24, Neumos, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

THE FLOOZIES: March 26, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

UNDEROATH: March 30, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

ELLIE GOULDING: April 2, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III: April 2, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

SUDDEN VALLEY JAZZ SERIES: April 2/ Nov. 5, Sudden Valley Dance Barn, Bellingham. 360-671-1709 or FSWL.org. n For complete listings, visit goskagit.com and click on “Entertainment.”

E8 Thursday, December 17, 2015

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area December 17-21 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.

Thursday, December 17, 2015 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TUNING UP Playing at area venues December 17-23 THURSDAY.17

SATURDAY.19

Hilary Scott and AJ Gennaro: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-4453000.

THE DEBAUCHERAUNTES 7:30 to 10 p.m., The Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes.

Free. 360-299-0323.

“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.

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

360-982-2649.

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

Friday.18 THEATER

“I’ll Be Home For Christmas” (comedy): Taproot Theatre Touring Company, 7 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $10. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

FRIDAY.18

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

TROY FAIR BAND 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $5.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

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

SUNDAY.20 ATLANTICS 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

FRIDAY.18

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

Scott Pemberton Band: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Loft, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $12. 360-445-3000.

“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.

The Debaucherauntes (Klezmer fusion) and Sweet Lou’s Sour Mash (bluegrass): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway.

360-445-3000.

“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 youths. 800-6387631, 360-221-8268 or wicaonline.org.

Buckaroo Blues (contemporary, classic and country rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-2752448.

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

Kurt Lindsay: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720.

The Summit of Two: David Ritchie, John Meier: 7 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Blues Union: 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. Lloyd Hooper and the Cascade Ramblers 360-766-6266. (classic country dance): 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., Sedro-Woolley American Legion Hall, 701 Murdock St., SedroWoolley. 360-855-5111.

Troy Fair Band (country): 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $5.

425-737-5144 or 360629-6500.

Ashes of Existence, Defenestrator, Devils of Louden, Ghost Blood: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6. 360-7781067.

Country Jim: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. 360-8488882.

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

360-766-6330.

Friday Swing, with Duane Melcher and Ken Vanderhyde (’30s, ’40s & ’50s classic tunes): 7 to 9 p.m., North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington.

No cover. 360-707-2683.

SATURDAY.19

Saturday.19 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.

“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 youths. 800-6387631, 360-221-8268 or wicaonline.org.

MUSIC

Flowmotion, Vicci Martinez, Danny Barnes and Jacob Navarro: 7 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre. org.

The Debaucherauntes (Klezmer fusion): 7:30 to 10 p.m., The Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes. Free. 360299-0323.

DANCE

“Winter Celebration” (contemporary dance): Fidalgo DanceWorks, 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, Anacortes High School, Brodniak Hall, 1600 20th St., Anacortes.

Tickets: $12 at brownpapertickets.com.

Information: 360-299-8447 or fidalgo danceworks.org.

BALLET

“The Nutcracker”: Northwest Ballet Theater, 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $24-$35.

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

VARIETY

Amuze Cabaret (dinner theater and variety show): 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $20, $35 with dinner. 360-445-3000.

Sunday.20 THEATER

“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.

BALLET

“The Nutcracker”: Northwest Ballet Theater, 2 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $24-$35.

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

Monday.21 MUSIC

“Jazzin’ with the Classics for Christmas”: Linda Tsatsanis, soprano; Jeffrey Cohan, flute; Martin Lund, piano, clarinet and flute; and Tom Collier, vibraphone: 7 p.m., Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $15 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger. 360-629-6110 or candlelight seattle.org.

Brian Lee and the Orbiters (blues): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

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

Buckaroo Blues (contemporary, classic and country rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448.

Whisky Fever: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

South Fork Zoo (‘60s-’70s folk rock): 7:30 p.m., The Corner Pub, 14565 Allen West Road, Bow. 360-7576113.

Prozac Mountain Boys (bluegrass): 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Rod Cook and Toast: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

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

SUNDAY.20 Atlantics: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

Clambake, The Slacks, The Dirty Bird Cabaret, Johnny Van Dingo: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-7781067.

Cheap Therapy: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover. 360-766-6330.

Lloyd Hooper and the Cascade Ramblers (classic country dance): 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., SedroWoolley American Legion Hall, 701 Murdock St., Sedro-Woolley. 360-8555111.

WEDNESDAY.23 Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-445-4733.

Ben Von Wildenhaus & Cherry Blossom Family Delivery, Amanda Bloom, Jude Webre: 8 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

Fidalgo Swing: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720.

Steve Kaldestad (jazz): 7 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham. $10, $5 student, free for WJMAC members. 206-612-5967.

E8 Thursday, December 17, 2015

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area December 17-21 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.

Thursday, December 17, 2015 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TUNING UP Playing at area venues December 17-23 THURSDAY.17

SATURDAY.19

Hilary Scott and AJ Gennaro: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-4453000.

THE DEBAUCHERAUNTES 7:30 to 10 p.m., The Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes.

Free. 360-299-0323.

“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.

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

360-982-2649.

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

Friday.18 THEATER

“I’ll Be Home For Christmas” (comedy): Taproot Theatre Touring Company, 7 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $10. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

FRIDAY.18

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

TROY FAIR BAND 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $5.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

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

SUNDAY.20 ATLANTICS 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

FRIDAY.18

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

Scott Pemberton Band: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Loft, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $12. 360-445-3000.

“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.

The Debaucherauntes (Klezmer fusion) and Sweet Lou’s Sour Mash (bluegrass): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway.

360-445-3000.

“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 youths. 800-6387631, 360-221-8268 or wicaonline.org.

Buckaroo Blues (contemporary, classic and country rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-2752448.

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

Kurt Lindsay: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720.

The Summit of Two: David Ritchie, John Meier: 7 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Blues Union: 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. Lloyd Hooper and the Cascade Ramblers 360-766-6266. (classic country dance): 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., Sedro-Woolley American Legion Hall, 701 Murdock St., SedroWoolley. 360-855-5111.

Troy Fair Band (country): 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $5.

425-737-5144 or 360629-6500.

Ashes of Existence, Defenestrator, Devils of Louden, Ghost Blood: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6. 360-7781067.

Country Jim: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. 360-8488882.

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

360-766-6330.

Friday Swing, with Duane Melcher and Ken Vanderhyde (’30s, ’40s & ’50s classic tunes): 7 to 9 p.m., North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington.

No cover. 360-707-2683.

SATURDAY.19

Saturday.19 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.

“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 youths. 800-6387631, 360-221-8268 or wicaonline.org.

MUSIC

Flowmotion, Vicci Martinez, Danny Barnes and Jacob Navarro: 7 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre. org.

The Debaucherauntes (Klezmer fusion): 7:30 to 10 p.m., The Depot Arts Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes. Free. 360299-0323.

DANCE

“Winter Celebration” (contemporary dance): Fidalgo DanceWorks, 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, Anacortes High School, Brodniak Hall, 1600 20th St., Anacortes.

Tickets: $12 at brownpapertickets.com.

Information: 360-299-8447 or fidalgo danceworks.org.

BALLET

“The Nutcracker”: Northwest Ballet Theater, 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $24-$35.

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

VARIETY

Amuze Cabaret (dinner theater and variety show): 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $20, $35 with dinner. 360-445-3000.

Sunday.20 THEATER

“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.

BALLET

“The Nutcracker”: Northwest Ballet Theater, 2 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $24-$35.

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

Monday.21 MUSIC

“Jazzin’ with the Classics for Christmas”: Linda Tsatsanis, soprano; Jeffrey Cohan, flute; Martin Lund, piano, clarinet and flute; and Tom Collier, vibraphone: 7 p.m., Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $15 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger. 360-629-6110 or candlelight seattle.org.

Brian Lee and the Orbiters (blues): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

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

Buckaroo Blues (contemporary, classic and country rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448.

Whisky Fever: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

South Fork Zoo (‘60s-’70s folk rock): 7:30 p.m., The Corner Pub, 14565 Allen West Road, Bow. 360-7576113.

Prozac Mountain Boys (bluegrass): 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Rod Cook and Toast: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

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

SUNDAY.20 Atlantics: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

Clambake, The Slacks, The Dirty Bird Cabaret, Johnny Van Dingo: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-7781067.

Cheap Therapy: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover. 360-766-6330.

Lloyd Hooper and the Cascade Ramblers (classic country dance): 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., SedroWoolley American Legion Hall, 701 Murdock St., Sedro-Woolley. 360-8555111.

WEDNESDAY.23 Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-445-4733.

Ben Von Wildenhaus & Cherry Blossom Family Delivery, Amanda Bloom, Jude Webre: 8 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

Fidalgo Swing: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720.

Steve Kaldestad (jazz): 7 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham. $10, $5 student, free for WJMAC members. 206-612-5967.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E10 - Thursday, December 17, 2015

TRAVEL FAMILY TRAVEL FIVE

Take the wheel when it comes to car rental savings top-notch cars that exit the fleet after six months.

Download the Silvercar Choosing a rental car app for access to Audi A4s can be an important part that come with in-car Wi-Fi, of family vacation planSiriusXM radio, roadside ning. Here are five ideas to safety assistance and Blueconsider: tooth at no extra charge.

1. Explore new options.

It is a wireless, paperless You may be comfortable and counterless experience renting from the same designed to ease the somename-brand agencies, but if times-painful car rental you are looking to save or process. get the best deal, consider a sixt.com; silvercar.com new approach.

Sixt, a German company, 2. Coupons and disentered the U.S. market in counts. Before making 2011 and has expanded to your final auto choice, 20 airport locations. It has search the Internet for earned a strong reputation available discounts and in Europe for good custom- coupon codes. er service, fair pricing and Numerous sites will proBy LYNN O’ROURKE HAYES The Dallas Morning News

Consider Autoslash. This site continuously tracks rates and searches for coupon codes and puts them to work lowering your rental car rate right up until the time of your car pickup.

vide options for upgrades and discounts that might not be promoted on the rental agency’s site. Consider a less expensive weekly rate even if your travel plans do not extend seven days. Don’t be afraid to ask for a free upgrade when you finally reach the counter. couponsherpa.com;

retailmenot.com 3. Use your own resources. Are you a Costco member? Do you belong to AAA? Existing memberships, credit-card perks and miles or discounts from frequent flier and hotel loyalty programs can provide savings for your car rental.

Local travel

Check with your credit card company and insurance broker to gain a clear understanding of how and when you will be covered while driving a rental car. costco.com; AAA.com

own vehicle.

5. Consider Autoslash.

This site continuously tracks rates and searches for coupon codes and puts them to work lowering your rental car rate right up until the time of your car pickup.

4. Bring your own. Car Use the site to monitor a booster seat use dramatideal you’ve booked elsecally reduces the risk of injury for children. If your where. You can also book child still requires this pro- directly through Autoslash, although the inventory of tection, it is best to bring participating companies is your own gear to avoid more limited than other extra charges and to have confidence in the quality of comparison booking sites. autoslash.com the safety seat. Don’t forget to bring phone chargers n Lynn O’Rourke Hayes is and directional apps if you the editor of FamilyTravel. are accustomed to using com. Email: lohayes@family navigation software in your travel.com.

Senior Center, 51 SE Jerome St., has several international trips planned for “ASIAN ADVENTURE: TOKYO & 2016: Tropical Costa Rica, Feb. 29-March KAMAKURA”: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 6, 8; a European River Cruise, Budapest to Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Amsterdam, Oct. 12-27; and Hawaii, Nov. Anacortes. Don and Joyce Paradine share 12-19. For information, contact Pat at their cruise to Tokyo and other Asian pgardner@oakharbor.org or 360-279-4582. locales, including Hong Kong, Vietnam and Thailand. Free. 360-293-1910, ext.

STATE VISITOR CALL CENTER: The 21, or library.cityofanacortes.org.

Washington Tourism Alliance’s ExperienceWA Call Center is open daily from 8:30 SHORT TRIPS: Mount Vernon Parks and a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Recreation offers travel opportunities Christmas and New Year’s Day. 1-800-544for ages 8 and older (adult supervision 1800 or tourisminfo@watourismalliance. required for ages 17 and younger). Trips com. Staff members assist travelers who depart from and return to Hillcrest Park, have questions, refer them to specific des1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. For infor- tination marketing organizations and other mation or to register, call 360-336-6215. travel resources across the state for more detailed information, and take orders for ESCORTED TOURS: The Whatcom the Washington State Visitors Guide.

County Tour Program offers a variety of day trips and longer tours, with most PASSPORT APPLICATIONS: Anacortes trips departing from and returning to the Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes, Bellingham Senior Activity Center, 315 accepts passport applications from noon Halleck St., Bellingham. For information to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, noon to 5 p.m. or to register: 360-733-4030, ext. 1015, Wednesdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays. or wccoa.org/index.php/Tours.

Passport forms and information on fees Future extended trips include a cruise and how to apply are available at travel. through Alaska’s Inside Passage, a state.gov, or pick up an application and scenic rail tour of British Columbia hot passport guide at the library. springs and the Rockies, a fall trip to Oak Harbor Senior Center, 51 SE Ireland, a tour of Martha’s Vineyard and Jerome St., Oak Harbor, accepts passport the Eastern Seaboard, and a visit to New applications, by appointment, from 10 Mexico’s annual Balloon Fiesta. a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thurs ESCORTED TOURS: The Oak Harbor day. 360-279-4580.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “Mission: Impossible: Gladers now face a new set Rogue Nation”: Tom of challenges.

Upcoming Cruise wants to have it “The Dungeonmaster/ movie releases both ways, feeding the Eliminators”: Two horror Following is a partial Hollywood blockbuster films are on one DVD. schedule of coming movmachine while trying to “Wolf Totem”: Student ies on DVD. Release squeeze in respectability. forms an unlikely bond dates are subject to A better, bolder choice with a Mongol wolf cub. change: would have been to see “Slow Learners”: Two DEC. 22 this sleek, often thrillclose friends plan to transPawn Sacrifice ing bit of entertainment form themselves. Adam Dragon Blade through to a crazy, overPally stars. blown finale. Instead, “Time Out of Mind”: DEC. 29 “Rogue Nation” becomes Man struggles to find food A Walk in the Woods flat and self-important, and a place to sleep in New Hitman Agent 47 Jenny’s Wedding demanding that we take it York City. Richard Gere Bone Tomahawk at face value. stars.

“Ted 2”: The script is “Unleashed! A Dog JAN. 5 less linear than the original Dancing Story”: Theater The Visit and more of a patchwork directors attempt to mount The Walk of ideas that director Seth the first dog dancing and The Green Inferno Infinitely Polar Bear MacFarlane thought would indoor kite flying theatribe funny. There’s a scene cal performance.

JAN. 12 where the group stands “History War CollecHotel Transylvania 2 on a tall building throwtion”: The 17-disc set digs Sinister 2 ing apples at joggers and deep into the twists and Irrational Man another where they shout turns of America’s most JAN. 19 uncomfortable suggestions significant and deadly conStraight Outta Compton to a comedy improv team. flicts.

Everest The ideas are funny but “A Chef’s Life”: Look Learning to Drive come across as forced in inside the kitchen of Chef The Diary of a Teenage this story.

Vivian Howard.

Girl When MacFarlane does “Zombie High”: Virginia JAN. 26 find the more universal Madsen stars in this tale Goosebumps humor, he keeps going of bizarre happenings at a back to the same jokes boarding school.

FEB. 2 until the funniness is gone.

“Teen Wolf Season 5, The Last Witch One such series of jokes is Part 1”: On the eve of Suffragette about Amanda Seyfried’s senior year, Scott and his Big Stone Gap big eyes making her look friends find themselves FEB. 9 like Gollum from the facing the possibility of a Crimson Peak “Lord of the Rings.” Once future without each other.

Love the Coopers is funny. Twice OK. Three “History Bible Collec99 Homes times and the joke has tion”: The 38 hours of proFreaks of Nature struck out. gramming includes “Bible FEB. 16 “He Named Me MalaStories from the Old TestaBlack Mass la”: Young girl survives ment,’ “Christianity: The Criminal Activities being shot in the head for First Two Thousand Years” speaking out for rights and “Banned from the n Tribune News Service of girls to go to school.

Bible.”

Although it is a powerful “Duck Dynasty: Seastory on political and hissons 1-8”: The 18-DVD torical levels, the failed assassination of set covers all of the misadventures of the Malala is only half the story.

Robertson family.

Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker “The Car”: Murderous car wreaks Davis Guggenheim (“An Inconvenient havoc on a small western town.

Truth”) shows in “He Named Me Malala” “The Surface”: Man begins to live that this is also a story of a deep and pow- vicariously through another man’s home erful bond between a father and daughmovies. ter. It is a tale of family and the family of “CSI: Crime Scene Investigations man.

The Finale”: D.B. Russell (Ted Danson) “The Fantastic Four”: Story of how directs his last investigation in Las Vegas. four people gain superpowers. n Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee “Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials”:

Thursday, December 17, 2015 - E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E12 - Thursday, December 17, 2015

GET INVOLVED ART CALL FOR ART: The Town of La Conner Arts Commission is accepting entries through Feb. 8 for the 2016 La Conner Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition. Artists who reside in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska and British Columbia may submit examples of existing works of art available for exhibition and purchase. Works will remain on public display for two years and the Arts Commission will promote their sale through statewide advertising. A prospectus and entry form can be downloaded at townoflaconner.org. For questions: 360-466-3125 or arts@townoflaconner.org.

ART CLASSES

FAMILY ART DAYS AT MoNA: The Museum of Northwest Art offers Family Art Days each month at 121 S. First St., La Conner. Sessions are open to ages 5 and older at all skill levels and include guided walk-throughs of MoNA exhibitions. $5 per family, free for members. Limited enrollment. Preregistration required. 360-466-4446 or monamuseum.org. Next up: Flower Power: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16. Learn abut different kinds of paint, explore expressive brush work and spatters, and finish with watercolor pencils or markers to make a personal mini flower painting portfolio to take home.

CALL FOR ARTISTS/ Mixed Media Bird Nests: GALLERIES: The Whidbey 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2 to Art Trail, a self-guided 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13. artist studio tour, is accept- Create your own artistic ing applications through bird’s nest using a collecMarch 1 from Whidbey tion of materials, much like Island artists, galleries and the birds do. Build a nest others who want to parwith strips of paper, found ticipate in promoting the objects, magazine pages and artistic bounty of Whidbey matte medium to glue it all Island. whidbeyarttrail. together. com.

NEEDLE WORKING: The CALL TO ARTISTS: The Hub City Needle Works Skagit Art Association is group meets from 4:30 to 6 accepting new member p.m. the second Thursday applications. Membership of every month at the Burbenefits include networking lington Public Library, 820 with area artists in a variety E. Washington Ave. Geared of mediums and participafor crafters ages 8 and older. tion in the association’s 360-755-0760 or burlington annual “Art in a Pickle wa.gov/library.

Barn” show/sale held during the Skagit Valley Tulip BURLINGTON ART Festival. Applications are CLASSES: Burlington Parks available online at skagitart. and Recreation will offer org. For information: 360these art classes for kids at 770-3660 or earthnclay@ the Burlington Parks and outlook.com.

Recreation Center, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave. For informaART COMMISSION tion or to register: 360-755MEETING: The Mount Ver- 9649 or burlingtonwa.gov/ non Arts Commission will recreation. meet at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Sci-Fi & Fantasy Art: 4 Jan. 21, in the conference to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 5-26. room at Hillcrest Park, 1717 Kids ages 8 to 13 will learn S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. the fundamentals of draw360-336-6215. ing while having fun creat-

ing their own renditions of mythological heroes, fantasy settings, fantastic alien creatures and space ships. Beginner to advanced. Register

by Dec. 29. $45, includes all supplies.

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 focus on a particular sacred phrase, inspired by spiritual traditions from around the world, including Christian, Jewish, Native American, Hindu, Buddhist and others.

No experience necessary.

Dances are taught to the group each time. Donation requested, but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 360-629-9190.

Free. 360-707-2683.

RECREATION

BALD EAGLE INTERPRETIVE CENTER: The Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends durAUDITIONS ing December and January at Howard Miller Steelhead “THE DROWSY CHAPERPark, 52809 Rockport Park ONE” (a musical within a Road, Rockport. Guided comedy): Auditions will be hikes are offered at 11 a.m. held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturevery Saturday and Sunday, day and 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, with special presentations Jan. 9-10, at the Anacortes at 1 p.m. most Saturdays.

Community Theatre, 918 M Next up: Ave., Anacortes. Parts are Dec. 19: Winter Birds of available for five women the Skagit: with Skagit Valand seven men ages 20 ley College instructor and to 70. Auditioners should Eagle Watcher volunteer prepare a solo song from BEGINNER SQUARE Steve Glenn. the show and a dramatic DANCE LESSONS: 7 p.m.

Jan. 2: Year of the Eagle: monologue. Perusal scripts Tuesdays, beginning Jan. 5, and music/CDs are available at the Mount Vernon Senior with author and photographer Kevin Ebi. in the ACT office. The show Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Free. 360-853-7626 or will run March 25-April 23. Families, couples and singles skagiteagle.org.

360-293-6829 or acttheatre. ages 10 and older are welcom. come. First two weeks are FREE PARK ADMISSION: free, then $4 per lesson. 360In honor of New Year’s Day “LOST IN YONKERS”: 424-4608 or rosie@valleyint. and State Parks’ First Day Auditions will be held at 2 com.

Hikes Day, the Washington p.m. Sunday and 6:30 p.m.

State Parks and Recreation Monday, Jan. 31-Feb. 1, at NEW YEAR’S EVE Commission will offer the Whidbey Playhouse/ DANCE: 8 p.m. to midnight Star Studio, 730 SE Midway Thursday, Dec. 31, Camano free admission to all state parks on Thursday, Jan. 1.

Blvd., Oak Harbor. Parts are Center, 606 Arrowhead The Discover Pass will not available for two men, two Road, Camano Island. be required to enter state teen boys and three women Enjoy music by Camano parks, but will be required (one older). Neil Simon’s Junction and dancing, comto access lands managed dramatic comedy will run plimentary champagne by the Washington DepartApril 1-17. 360-679-2237 or toast, snacks and a no-host ment of Fish and Wildlife whidbeyplayhouse.com. bar. $25. 360-387-0222 or and the Department of camanocenter.org.

Natural Resources. parks.

DANCE wa.gov.

WINTER DANCE CAMP: MUSIC Skagit Valley Academy TIME FOR FIDDLERS: CAMANO WINTER of Dance will host a twoThe Washington Old Time WALK: Join Friends of day Winter Dance Camp Fiddlers play at 6:30 p.m. the Camano Island Parks on a for ages 4 to 7 from 9 second and fourth Fridays guided community walk at a.m. to noon Monday and of each month at the Mount 9:50 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, at Wednesday, Dec. 28 and Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Camano Island State Park, 30, at 1522 Jay Way, Mount Cleveland. St. Free; dona2269 Lowell Point Road, Vernon. tions accepted. 360-630Camano Island. Meet at the Beginning and inter1156. picnic shelter near the boat mediate dancers will ramp. The 2.6-mile walk learn creative movement, B.Y.O.G. (Bring Your includes two elevation gains character, lyrical and jazz Own Guitar): Beginner/ of about 50 feet, with the dance styles, and enjoy cre- intermediate acoustic guirest fairly level, and offers ative arts and crafts. $35, tar jam from 7 to 8 p.m. excellent views of Saratoga includes a snack. 360-424Wednesday, Jan. 6, North Passage and Elger Bay, 6677 or skagitvalleyacad Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Buras well as a walk through emyofdance.com. lington Blvd., Burlington. a beautiful “fern grotto”

and ravine. The walk takes place rain or shine, canceled for high winds or snow.

Wear appropriate clothes and sturdy shoes or boots.

No dogs. Discover Pass required. friendsofcamano islandparks.org.

WORKSHOPS GLASS ETCHING: 2 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, Center of Holistic Wellness, 609 Murdock St., SedroWoolley. Learn the basics of this art and take home a piece of etched glass. Glass will be available or bring a special piece of your own. $25. RSVP: 360-420-2630 or sedrowoolleyholisticwell ness.wordpress.com.

PHOTO CLASSES: Skagit Valley professional photographer Andy Porter will present a series of digital photography classes at the Burlington Parks and Recreation Center, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. Porter’s photos have appeared in many national magazines and travel guides. Classes will include lots of hands-on experience and answers to your photo questions. For ages teen to adult. Bring your digital SLR camera and instruction manual. Preregister one week prior to the class: 360755-9649 or burlingtonwa. gov.

“Take Better Pictures with Your Digital DSLR Camera”: You’ll learn how to shoot in manual mode, and how to set aperture, shutter speed and ISO to get the best possible shots.

Class will also cover how to bracket your exposure, use of polarizers, benefits of capturing images in the RAW format and more. $40.

Next up: n Saturday, Jan. 23: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. n Thursday, Feb. 11: 6 to 9 p.m. n Saturday, March 12: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 17, 2015 - E13

AT THE LINCOLN ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’

7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18

Skagit Valley Lutheran Cluster presents The Taproot Theatre Touring Company Production of “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.”

Jesse is returning home from a two-year trip. His parents have planned a surprise party, it’s a snowy Christmas Eve and he can’t wait to see his dog.

Then a spontaneous act of kindness leads to a sudden change of plans, and while his parents are left holding the cookies, Jesse befriends a young runaway. Nothing goes quite as expected in this Christmas comedy about forgiveness, hope and calling. $10 festival seating.

12 COCKTAILS OF CHRISTMAS NIGHT - THURS. 12/17 6PM

ROCKFISH GRILL & ANACORTES BREWERY

A menu of Polish family recipes & eclectic fare made in-house from fresh, local ingredients.

Local Food, Local Beer, Made Here

Craft Beer • PNW Wines House-Infused Vodkas

MONDAY: Dinner & A Movie MONDAY

PLAN YOUR NEW YEARS EVE DINNER HERE

Order anything from the menu and get a ticket to the Anacortes Cinema for only 6 bucks!

TUESDAY: Kids Eat Free WED & FRI: Live Blues, Jazz and Roots Music THURSDAY: Dine for $9.99 - Pizza and a Pint, Burger and a Brew HAPPY HOUR NOW AVAILABLE in the Entire Restaurant: 3-6PM

LOCAL LIVE MUSIC CHECK LISTINGS

aneliaskitchenandstage.com OPEN 11AM WED-MON

320 Commercial Ave • 360.588.1720 • MORE INFO AT: rockfishgrill.com

‘The Magic Flute’

1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20

Under the baton of Maestro James Levine, the 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. n The Lincoln Theatre is located at 712 S. First St., downtown Mount Vernon. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

314 Commercial • 360-755-3956

Fa m ily

ALL YOU CAN EAT PRAWNS

Reservations Required

7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19

Flowmotion, one of Seattle’s most distinctly diverse rock bands, is an act that fails to fall into an easily packaged genre, with set lists that skip across the spectrum, reminding listeners of Led Zeppelin at some moments and Parliament at others. Recording artist Vicci Martinez was a finalist on the first season of “The Voice” in 2011.

Advance tickets $17, festival seating.

SAT. 12/19 7:30pm ROD COOK AND TOAST

NEW YEARS EVE

fri en dl y

Flowmotion, Vicci Martinez, Danny Barnes and Jacob Navarro

Kitchen open until last call 513 S 1st Street, La Conner 360.399.1805

Innovative Food • Craft Cocktails 24 Draft Handles • Live Music

Breakfast on Sat & Sun Jam night Sunday come toot your Horn with us.

KARAOKE Fri/Sat • Blues sun Have your parties Here!!

1/2 Pound siMPly thE

stEak bEst Pan friEd

burgErs

oystErs

Conway Pub & EatEry breakfast I-5 Exit 221 9 aM 360-445-4733

50% OFF

OPEN CHRISTMAS Christmas Buffet OR Limited Menu 8:00AM-7:00PM

TACO TUESDAY ~ 4PM FRIDAY ~ PRIME RIB SATURDAY ~ SEAFOOD THURSDAY NIGHTS:

ALL YOU CAN EAT PRAWNS

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

~ FRI. DEC 18TH ~ SAT. DEC 19TH

LITTLE MOUNTAIN THE GOOD SONS

422-6411

360.466.4411

18247 State Route 9 Mount Vernon

LaConner Whitney Rd. & Hwy. 20

KIDS EAT FREE EVERY TUESDAY FRI. 12/18 8PM KURT LINDSAY

LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND MORE

WED. 12/23 6PM FIDALGO SWING

ROCKFISH GRILL Local Food, Local Beer, Made Here 320 Commercial Ave 360.588.1720

www.anacortesrockfish.com

ONLY AT GOSKAGIT.COM/DEALS

Follow the Fish 7”

1/2”

3/4”

1”

1 1/4”

1 1/2”

Rockfish Grill : http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rockfish-Grill-Anacortes-Brewery/164550669515

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E14 - Thursday, December 17, 2015

MOVIES NEW THIS WEEK So: Where were we?

Let’s skip past the prequel trilogy “The Phantom Menace,” “Attack of the Clones” and “Revenge of the Sith,” apparently written and directed by droids. In chronological story terms we last saw Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, princess-turnedqueen Leia, Chewbacca, R2-D2, and C-3PO whooping it up at the Ewok luau back in 1983, in “Return of the Jedi.”

The idea was simple, and quaintly retro: The world, Lucas figured, might enjoy a whiz-bang riff on the old “Flash Gordon” serials.

Good guess! Now, minus the Ewoks, the gang’s back in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

And it is good. Not great.

But far better than “not bad.” Solidly, confidently good.

Co-writer and director J.J. Abrams, who shares script credit with Michael Arndt and, from the first “Star Wars” realm, Lawrence Kasdan, does just fine with the “Star Wars” legacy. He juggles nostalgia with the more distracted and distractible tastes of a younger generation of Jedis in training.

“The Force Awakens” ups the ante on the effects; the new lightsabers, for example, are far zwoopier and more destructive than the older models. The levels of mass slaughter, mostly bloodless and implied, are on the insane scale of a typical Marvel “Avengers” movie.

There’s a new Death Star threat afoot, but this one’s far, far larger, and it’s solarpowered. So it’s good for the environment it’s designed to destroy.

Here’s why “The Force Awakens” works. The actors all get a little piece of the action. Sounds like a nobrainer, but so many effectsdriven spectacles really

MINI-REVIEWS The original 1977 ‘Star Wars’ reviews When George Lucas’ “Star Wars” first landed in 1977, some critics were swept away, while others resisted the tide. A sampling:

probably find them all, more or less like, that, in downtown Los Angeles today...

O dull new world!” — John Simon, New York magazine

WITTY “‘Star Wars’ ... is the most elaborate, most expensive, most beautiful movie serial EXHAUSTING ever made. It’s both an apo “‘Star Wars’ is like getting theosis of ‘Flash Gordon’ a box of Cracker Jacks which serials and a witty critique is all prizes. This is the writ- that makes associations er-director George Lucas’s with a variety of literature own film, subject to no busi- that is nothing if not eclectic: ness interference, yet it’s a ‘Quo Vadis?’ ‘Buck Rogers,’ film that’s totally uninterest- ‘Ivanhoe,’ ‘Superman,’ ‘The ed in anything that doesn’t Wizard of Oz,’ ‘The Gospel connect with the mass audi- According to St. Matthew,’ ence. There’s no breather the legend of King Arthur in the picture, no lyricism; and the knights of the Round the only attempt at beauty Table. ... One of Mr. Lucas’s is in the double sunset. It’s particular achievements is enjoyable on its own terms, the manner in which he is but it’s exhausting, too: like able to recall the tackiness taking a pack of kids to the of the old comic strips and circus. ... It’s an epic without serials he loves without maka dream.” — Pauline Kael, ing a movie that is, itself, The New Yorker tacky.” — Vincent Camby, New York Times THUMBS UP “‘Star Wars’ taps the RIP-ROARING GALLOP pulp fantasies buried in our “‘Star Wars’ is Buck memories, and because it’s Rogers with a doctoral done so brilliantly, it reactidegree but not a trace of vates old thrills, fears, and neuroticism or cynicism, a exhilarations we thought slam-bang, rip-roaring gallop we’d abandoned when we through a distantly future read our last copy of Amazworld full of exotic vocabularing Stories.” — Roger Ebert, ies, creatures and customs, Chicago Sun-Times existing cheek by cowl with the boy and girl next door OVERWHELMING BANALITY and a couple of friendly left “Strip ‘Star Wars’ of its overs from the planet of the often striking images and apes and possibly one from its high-falutin scientific Oz (a Tin Woodman robot jargon, and you get a story, who may have got a goldcharacters, and dialogue of plating as a graduation presoverwhelming banality, withent).” — Charles Champlin, out even a “future” cast to Los Angeles Times them. Human beings, anthropoids, or robots, you could n The Associated Press

don’t care about the faces on-screen. Here you get a swell array of mugs, older and newer.

“The Force Awakens” opens the same way the previous six “Star Wars” features began, with the words: A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. The familiar rectangular twoword title logo is blasted in slow-motion into space by composer John Williams’ fanfare for the uncommon blockbuster.

Then, a bunch of plot.

The title crawl briefs us on the rise of “the sinister First Order,” even more Third Reichian in design and political subtlety than the Empire of old. We’re informed that the last remaining Jedi, Luke Skywalker, has vanished, and that a secret mission will whisk key “Star Wars” characters to the desert planet Jakku.

On Jakku, a young Rey (Daisy Ridley, my vote for

MVP, newbie division) gets by as a scrap metal collector. She ends up in cahoots with trusty BB8, who’s being hunted by First Order evildoers led by Adam Driver’s Kylo Ren, who wears a big black helmet in the style of a certain other moody cuss in this mythic galaxy. On the brighter side there’s Finn, a Stormtrooper who develops a conscience and becomes a good guy in early scenes that are among the film’s strongest. John Boyega gives the part his all, though in this material it’s usually the actors who hold something back who hold our interest.

Dropping in and out of the action, Oscar Isaac is a primary asset as Poe Dameron, “the best pilot in the resistance.” Like Harrison Ford’s Han Solo in the original three, he’s the guy you want on your team, the one who doesn’t take any guff and sticks primarily to dialogue along the lines of: “Give it everything ya got!”

It’s no secret that Ford, his copious hair grayer now, plays a major role in “The Force Awakens.” He’s truly reassuring company, laying into sarcastic rejoinders and tough-guy wisecracks (of uneven quality) with the relish of a one-man supergroup reprising his greatest hits.

Rey impresses Han with her piloting skills, at the helm of the Millennium Falcon.

The movie does all it can to establish its female lead as a strong, independent character. Still, “The Force Awakens” allows for only so much disturbance in the Force otherwise known as the Proven Moneymaking Formula. In mostly entertaining ways the movie feels like a remake of the first “Star Wars” from 1977. It’s easily the thirdbest in the franchise to date, behind the original, renamed “A New Hope” (’77), and “The Empire Strikes Back”

Compiled from news services.

Ratings are 1 to 4 stars.

Disney/Lucasfilm via AP

Oscar Isaac plays Poe Dameron in a scene from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

(1980). Abrams’s temperament and tastes are sincere and amusing in roughly equal doses, and that’s about right for “Star Wars.”

I wish the script had come up with something more inventive than a Big Gulp edition of the Death Star for its primary threat. I wonder if future “Star Wars” features will be allowed a longer leash; at one point in “The Force Awakens” one of the space Nazi types mentions that with the turncoat Finn, there had been “no prior signs of noncomformity.”

There aren’t many signs of nonconformity in Abrams’ film, either, though Ridley’s Rey is a first-rate screen heroine in the making. As for Lupita Nyong’o, whose motion-captured performance as a digitally animated saloonkeeper, she’s more than good enough to make you wish they’d gone another direction. Say, of letting the actor do it for real, if only to take our minds far, far away from Jar Jar Binks.

HHH

n Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune

“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 “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 “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 “The Big Short” — Christian Bale, Steve Carell and Ryan Gosling star as oddballs (based on real-life individuals) who foresee the housing bubble’s burst and set out to profit from it. Directed with feverish ingenuity, this is one of the best times I’ve had at the movies all year. Historical drama, R, 130 minutes.

HHHH

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 17, 2015 - E15

MOVIES AT AREA THEATERS ANACORTES CINEMAS Dec. 17-24 Star Wars: The Force Awakens (PG-13): FridayWednesday: 10:00, 1:00, 3:50, 6:40, 9:30; Thursday: 10:00, 1:00, 3:50, 6:40 In the Heart of the Sea (PG-13): Friday: 10:10, 12:50, 3:30, 6:50, 9:30; Saturday: 12:50, 3:30, 6:50, 9:30; Sunday-Wednesday: 10:10, 12:50, 3:30, 6:50, 9:30; Thursday: 10:10, 12:50, 3:30, 6:50 The Good Dinosaur (PG): Friday-Saturday: 1:10, 6:30, 8:50; Sunday: 6:30, 8:50; Monday-Tuesday: 1:10, 6:30, 8:50; Wednesday: 1:10 Thursday: 1:10, 6:30 Suffragette (PG-13): Friday: 10:20, 3:40; Saturday: 3:40; Sunday: 10:20; MondayThursday: 10:20, 3:40 Miracle on 34th Street (NR): Sunday: 2:00; Wednesday: 7:00 360-293-7000 CONCRETE THEATER Dec. 18-20 Star Wars: The Force Awakens (PG-13): Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: 5 and 8 p.m.’ Sunday: 5 p.m.

BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Oak Harbor 360-675-5667 CASCADE MALL THEATERS Burlington For showings: 888-AMC4FUN (888-262-4386) OAK HARBOR CINEMAS Dec. 17-24 Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip (PG): FridayWednesday: 10:45, 1:30, 4:15, 6:55, 9:00; Thursday: 10:45, 1:30, 4:15, 6:55 Star Wars: The Force

“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. Animated adventure, PG, 95 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.

Animated, G, 88 minutes.

Awakens (PG-13): FridayWednesday: 10:15, 1:00, 3:45, 6:45, 9:30; Thursday: 10:15, 1:00, 3:45, 6:45 In the Heart of the Sea (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00, 6:35, 9:10; Sunday: 10:30, 4:00, 6:35, 9:10; Monday-Tuesday: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00, 6:35, 9:10; Wednesday: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00, 9:10; Thursday: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00, 6:35 Miracle on 34th Street (NR): Sunday: 2:00; Wednesday: 7:00 360-279-2226 STANWOOD CINEMAS Dec. 17-24 Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip (PG): FridaySaturday: 11:00, 1:35, 4:15, 6:35, 8:45; Sunday: 11:00, 4:15, 6:35, 8:45; MondayWednesday: 11:00, 1:35, 4:15, 6:35, 8:45; Thursday: 11:00, 1:35, 4:15, 6:35 Sisters (R): Friday-Wednesday: 10:45, 1:25, 4:10, 6:50, 9:25; Thursday: 10:45, 1:25, 4:10, 6:50 Star Wars: The Force Awakens (PG-13): Friday: 10:15, 1:05, 3:55, 6:45, 9:35; Saturday-Wednesday: 10:15, 12:50, 1:05, 3:55, 6:45, 9:20, 9:35; Thursday: 10:15, 12:50, 1:05, 3:55, 6:45 Star Wars: The Force Awakens 3D (PG-13): Friday: 10:00, 12:50, 3:40, 6:30, 9:20; Saturday-Thursday: 10:00, 3:40, 6:30 In the Heart of the Sea (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00, 6:40, 9:15; Sunday: 1:15, 3:55, 6:40, 9:15; Monday-Tuesday: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00, 6:40, 9:15; Wednesday: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00, 9:15; Thursday: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00, 6:40 Miracle on 34th Street (NR): Sunday: 2:00; Wednesday: 7:00 360-629-0514

HHH½ “The Ridiculous 6” — With solid production values, a supporting cast that includes everyone from Nick Nolte to Steve Buscemi to Harvey Keitel, and a role that requires Adam Sandler to don an actual costume instead of just shuffling about in sweats or cargo shorts, “The Ridiculous 6” indicates something akin to a genuine effort on Sandler’s part to make us laugh. It’s still a ridiculous waste of time. Comedy-Western, NR, 119 minutes. H

Why ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ is the movie of the year

By MARK OLSEN Los Angeles Times

It’s difficult to look at the news recently and not feel some complicated layering of disheartened and disgusted or to think the world is genuinely spinning out of control on some accelerated course to who-knows-where.

The movies of 2015 often reflected that with ongoing imagery of a world in crisis.

Yet there was also, at the cinema at least, an underlying aspect of forgiveness, reconciliation, growth and most of all hope. The future is coming, the movies seem to be saying — what happens now is up to all of us.

Which is why “Mad Max: Fury Road” seems more than any other movie this year to have tapped into a rare and electrifying current of heightened reality and why for me it is the top movie of the year. “Fury Road” is both a caricatured screed and nuanced depiction of chaos, camaraderie, violence, hatred, resolve and an ability to overcome fear through resilience and understanding.

Directed and co-written

by George Miller, the film manages to be many things at once, macho and feminist, sprawling and focused, brutal and tender. The film is an awesome action flick and deft allegory of power. Miller’s most radical decision is to push his title character, a post-apocalyptic wanderer played for the first time by Tom Hardy, into a supporting position and make room for a new leader to emerge, the worker-turned-warrior Imperator Furiosa, played

by Charlize Theron.

Another film that uses stylization to deepen its depiction of the world is Spike Lee’s “Chi-Raq,” a left-field triumph and a wild, witty tale told in verse set amid the contemporary issue of gun violence in Chicago. The movie creates a free space for itself to be bold and daring and sometimes push things too far, but without losing sight of the real, painful topic at its core. It is filmmaking without a net, and there is an additional layer to the success of “Chi-Raq” in that Spike Lee has often seemed a once-great filmmaker who appeared to coast in recent films. To see him roar back to life in such a ferocious, connected way is an inspiration.

“Chi-Raq” features an outrageous performance

by Samuel L. Jackson as a streetwise narrator, and the actor also crafts a dynamic turn for Quentin Tarantino’s “The Hateful Eight,” a drama set largely in a remote mountain cabin during the period just after the Civil War. That movie takes a long, leisurely windup to reveal itself as a direct confrontation to a legacy of violence and racial hatred.

In some ways the movie reflexively rebukes itself, turning to an implicit selfcriticism that challenges in its final sections the easy enjoyment it allows in its earlier moments.

“The Big Short” is a film I struggled hard to work into the Jenga tower of my personal top-10 list — let’s just call it 10.5 — and one that also tries to makes

Warner Bros. Pictures via AP

Tom Hardy stars in “Mad Max: Fury Road.” sense of an upside-down world. Director Adam McKay, who has deflated American self-confidence in films such as “Anchorman” and “Talladega Nights,” has created something else entirely, a nightmare satire of the financial meltdown of the late 2000s from the perspective of financial industry insiders. They not only saw it coming but also, much to their own dismay, made money off it.

Complicated, often conflicted, relationships emerged in film after film.

In Hou Hsiao-hsien’s “The Assassin,” which takes place in feudal China, political intrigue is intertwined with personal drama to ravishing, overwhelming ends. In Denis Villeneuve’s “Sicario,” the border between right and wrong, legal and illegal becomes a movable thing.

Alex Garland’s “Ex Machina” ponders the nature of what makes a human, with its unlikely triangle of love, wits and survival drive between men and beautiful machine.

And then there are the films that find their way out of darkness, coming out the other side wiser and stronger. Marielle Heller’s “The Diary of a Teenage Girl” and Sean Baker’s “Tangerine” put their lead characters through crucibles of struggle and trauma but find a light born from friendship, family and love.

Part of my deep affection for the oddball rom-com structure of Andrew Bujalski’s “Results” is that it allows its characters to be messy, screwy and difficult — to be themselves — but open to change.

Todd Haynes’ “Carol” is a film of deeply etched emotions, but one that exists largely in silences and glances, as Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara play two women struggling against the boundaries of 1950s society to pursue a romance.

Every look or fleeting touch is charged by a sensual longing and a present danger.

Noah Baumbach’s “While We’re Young” is a comedy about the anxiety of not just societal but generational change, that feeling that one is being left behind. The story finds a place of reconciliation and understanding, that you’re never too old for something new.

Just as the character of Mad Max steps aside for someone else in “Fury Road,” in “Creed” the character of Rocky Balboa is slipped into a supporting role so that a young man can find his own way in the world. Reconfigured by writer-director Ryan Coogler, Rocky still has a role to play — brought to life with startling delicacy and subtlety by Sylvester Stallone — one that more than anything is marked by a generosity of spirit, a sense of giving.