360 December 19 2013 full by Skagit Publishing

Celebrating the season – Christmas events in the area

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Skagit Valley Herald Thursday December 19, 2013

Movie Villains

On Stage

At the Movies

Who were the vilest and nastiest in 2013? Check out the list

1967 takes to the stage at the Varsity Inn on Friday in Burlington

“Saving Mr. Banks”: The dirt and heartbreak behind “Mary Poppins”

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, December 19, 2013

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

The Year’s Best in Movies / Page 4

Inside

SUBMISSIONS Email features@skagitpublishing.com, vrichardson@skagitpublishing. com (recreation items) Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday for the following Thursday edition Phone 360-416-2135 Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274

The Year’s Top 10 Movies.................... 4 New on DVD....................................... 6 Get Involved........................................ 7 The Year’s Best in Music..................8-9 On Stage, Tuning Up....................10-11 Travel................................................. 12 Hot Tickets........................................ 14 At the Lincoln.................................... 15 Movie Review: “Saving Mr. Banks”...16 Movie Listings, Mini-Reviews.......... 17 Out & About.................................18-19

Mailing address P.O. Box 578 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 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? w For arts and entertainment, contact Features Editor Craig Parrish at 360-416-2135 or features@skagitpublishing.com w For recreation, contact staff writer Vince Richardson at 360-416-2181 or vrichardson@ skagitpublishing.com TO ADVERTISE 360-424-3251

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 - E3

COMMUNITY HOLIDAY TRAIN RIDE: Join Santa Claus aboard the Lake Whatcom Railway’s Christmas train at 9:30 a.m., noon and 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, leaving from Wickersham, 10 miles north of SedroWoolley on Highway 9. Meet Santa and his elf, sing Christmas carols and enjoy music by Ben the banjo player. $25 ages 18 and older, $12.50 ages 2 to 17, free for ages 1 and younger. Tickets must be purchased in advance by mail from Lake Whatcom Railway, P.O. Box 91, Acme, WA 98220. 360-595-2218 or lakewhatcomrailway.com. HOLIDAY MUSICAL REVUE: Whidbey Playhouse will present “Christmas Snapshots” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 19-20, and at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, at 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $14. 360-679-2237 or whidbey playhouse.com. “SISTER’S CHRISTMAS CATECHISM: THE MYSTERY OF THE MAGI’S GOLD”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 19-20, McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Employing her own scientific tools, assisted by a local choir as well as a gaggle of audience members, Sister creates a living nativity unlike any you’ve ever seen. $25, $15 ages 12 and younger. 360-416-7727 or mcintyrehall.org. VETERANS STANDDOWN: The Burlington American Legion Veterans Stand-Down will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20, at 721 E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. A dinner for veterans in need will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Medical and legal services, clothing, hot lunches, hygiene items, employment assistance and more will be

Commerce at 360-293-7911.

BRONN AND KATHERINE JOURNEY and friends will present their annual Holiday Concert at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 23, at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Broadway, folk, classical and sacred music will be featured in addition to traditional Christmas classics. $20. 360-416-7727 or mcintyrehall.org.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN THE AREA

available to all veterans and their families. 360-757-1202, 425-367-7450, chrisbrock43@ gmail.com, m.holloway@ washingtonvetcorps.net. FAMILY FUN TIME: 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20, La Conner Regional Library, 614 Morris St., La Conner. Bring the whole family for crafts, stories, songs and treats. Free. 360-466-3352. AN ELVIS FAMILY CHRISTMAS: 6 p.m. Friday and 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20-21, Wa-Walton Event Center, 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes. Enjoy Elvis Presley’s Christmas classics with Danny Vernon. $12 adults, $5 ages 18 and

younger. 888-288-8883 or swinomishcasinoandlodge. com.

mountbakertheatre.com. PANCAKES & SANTA: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, Stanwood Community and Senior Center, 7430 276th St. Includes pancake breakfast, kids’ crafts and a visit with Santa. Bring your camera. $5 adults, $8 kids. 360-629-7403.

HOLIDAY CONCERT: The Shelter Bay Chorus will perform “Comfort and Joy!” at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 20-21, at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse, La Conner. $10 suggested donation. 360-466-3805.

HOLIDAY CONCERT: The Stanwood-Camano Chorale, with small ensemble Trouvere, will present “FUM, FUM, FUN: A Festive Feast of Frolicking Frivolity” at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, at Stanwood United Methodist Church, 27128 103rd Drive NW, Stanwood. A freewill offering will be accepted. 360-445-2721.

“NATIVITY: WE DANCED OUR BEST FOR HIM”: 6:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 20-21, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. Enjoy the Nativity story told through the language of dance — jazz, lyrical, modern and ballet. $12-$15. 360-734-6080 or

HORSE-DRAWN TROLLEY RIDES: Enjoy free horsedrawn trolley rides from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, around downtown Anacortes, starting from Upstage Boutique & Men’s Store, 520 Commercial Ave. For information, call the Anacortes Chamber of

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION: The fourth annual Anacortes Community Christmas Celebration featuring violinist Geoffrey Castle will take place at 4 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, at the Transit Shed Event Center, 100 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. The 4 p.m. matinee show will be geared toward families with children. Food and beverages available. Admission: suggested donation of a new unwrapped toy or nonperishable food item. Reserved seating: suggested $25 donation to the Anacortes Seafarers’ Memorial Foundation through Brown Paper Tickets at 800-8383006 or brownpapertickets. com/event/498635. For information, to volunteer or learn about sponsorship opportunities, call 360-7087770. LIGHTED BOAT FLOTILLA: Decorated boats will parade up and down the Guemes Channel beginning about 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, starting from Cap Sante Boat Haven in Anacortes. Subject to weather. 360-293-3134. “THE NUTCRACKER”: Northwest Ballet Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21-22, McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $24-$35. 360-416-7727 or mcintyrehall.org. CANDLELIGHT SERVICE: The Chancel Choir of Mount Vernon First United Methodist Church will present its annual Candlelight Service at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22, at 1607 E. Division St. The Christmas story will be told through scripture and song. Free. 360-4243628. See EVENTS, Page E5

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, December 19, 2013

MOVIES

n surveying the year at the movies, the topography is rich. From the dusty, dying towns of “Nebraska” to the rooftop Roman parties in “The Great Beauty” to the sleek future Los Angeles of “Her,” 2013 has been a trip. But has it been a great year? Negativity reached a fever pitch in the summer when Steven Spielberg lamented Hollywood’s risk-adverse, finance-driven blockbusterism. The grim, humorless “Man of Steel” and its careless backdrop of mass destruction was a low point: the epitome of everything bad about movies today. Yet ambitious films gathered in number as the year went on, and many began calling 2013 a historically excellent year for film, after all. Here are one critic’s top picks of the year, all of them reasons why 2013 was a good year for the big screen: 1. “12 Years a Slave” — Steve McQueen’s masterful adaptation of Solomon Northup’s 1853 memoir is simply a powerhouse. McQueen, I suspect, will never make a comedy; his three movies (“Shame,” “Hunger”) reveal him a harsh storyteller, drawn down dark rabbit holes. But his lack of sentimentality gives “12 Years a Slave” its clarity: a long overdue correction to cinema’s reluctant treatment of slavery. As Northup, Chiwetel Ejiofor’s soulful eyes carry us through a nightmare odyssey of America’s past. 2. “Mud” — From the plantations of mid-19th century Louisiana, we travel up river to contemporary Arkansas in Jeff Nichols’ Twain-esque tale of boyhood on the Mississippi. With the wisebeyond-his-years Tye Sheridan as the 14-year-old Ellis, “Mud” is a full-hearted American fable. 3. “Frances Ha” — Full disclosure: I’m in love with Greta Gerwig. That bias notwithstanding, Noah Baumbach’s latest — co-written by and starring Gerwig — is a lovely ode to its title character (who has much in common with Gerwig, herself). Frances is an idiosyncratic 27-year-old finding her place in New York; where the “Ha” comes from is answered

could make the case that Alfonso Cuaron’s 3-D spectacle is a bit Fox Searchlight via AP banal. But, man, is it something to look at. The movie won’t be remembered for its thin story, but at a time when television’s rise is much discussed, “Gravity” reinvigorated the big-screen experience. 8. “Blue Is the Warmest Color” — Several films this year were fascinating snapshots of lives in motion. The powerful, simply told Bill Moyers’ documentary “Two American Families” kept up with two struggling middle-class families for 20 years. And Richard Linklater has covered two decades in the lives of a Paris woman (Julie Delpy) and American writer (Ethan Hawke) in his day-in-a-life series, culminating in “Before Midnight.” But Abdellatif Kechiche’s Palme d’Or-winner (also called “The Life of Adele: Chapters 1&2”) is the most memorable for its extreme closeness in portraying a teenager’s awakening to herself and the world. Adele Exarchopoulus’ performance is staggeringly open. The irony is that the infamous sex scenes in this flawed but arresting coming-of-age tale are easily the most artificial parts in it. 9. “This Is the End” — The By JAKE COYLE / AP Film Writer jokes just come and come. Nobody had a better time mak“Mud” ing a movie this year than Seth Roadside Attractions via AP Rogen and Evan Goldberg, and it’s written all over their self-parodying apocalypse comedy. 10. “The Spectacular Now” and “Short Term 12” — Movies that honestly represent teenage life are seldom, but both of these films magically move from familiar plot lines to somewhere honest. The high-school comedy of “Frances Ha” “The Spectacular Now,” starring IFC via AP Miles Teller, smacks up against hard realities. “Short Term 12,” in the film’s sweet final moment. disharmony. ini looms large in Paolo Sorrenti- starring Brie Larson, tenderly 4. “Inside Llewyn Davis” — no’s portrait of Rome in decadent depicts a foster-care facility and 5. “The Hunt” — In the most its young supervisors without Like Frances, Llewyn is a striving haunting film of the year, the decay. Sorrentino is an exquisite resorting to clichés. Manhattanite without an apartweak binds of a seemingly close- stylist (the opening minutes of Also: “Her,” ”Nebraska,” ment or a steady job. But he’s his “Il Divo” are pure, blistering knit Danish community disintemuch angrier about it. The Coen grate when a kindergarten teach- cinema), and “The Great Beauty” “Rush,” “A Band Called Death,” brothers’ melancholy story of a is manic and overstuffed. But it’s “Elysium,” “Fruitvale Station,” er (Mads Mikkelsen) is unjustly bitter, unfortunate folk singer is a accused of sexually assaulting a bursting with life. (Literally. It’s “Captain Phillips,” “Upstream wry commentary on the cruelness child. got a giraffe.) Color,” “Enough Said,” “Blue of fate, and melody born out of 7. “Gravity” — So simple you Jasmine.” 6. “The Great Beauty” — Fell-

“12 Years A Slave”

The top 10 movies of 2013

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 - E5

COMMUNITY

w Events

FUNKY SANTA COSTUME PARTY: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20, Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. Enjoy music by the Chris Eger Band and dancing, with prizes for the best Mr. & Mrs. Santa. $10 cover. 360-445-3000.

Continued from Page E3

CHRISTMAS CAROLERS: The Adoramus Carolers will present an hour of traditional and modern Christmas carols, songs and sing-alongs at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22, at the Whatcom Museum Old City Hall, 121 Prospect St., Bellingham. $3 suggested donation, free for museum members. 360778-8963 or whatcommuseum.org.

INDEPENDENT WREATHMAKING: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Dec. 24 at Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Wire rings and greenery are available for purchase, or you may bring your own. There is no charge to use the machines, but reservations are required. 360466-3821 or 1-800-585-8200.

YULETIDE CONCERT: “Yuletide Baroque & Beyond: Jazzin’ with the Classics for Christmas”: with Linda Tsatsanis, soprano; Jeffrey Cohan, flute; and Martin Lund, piano, clarinet and flute: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 28, Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $15 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger. 360-629-6110 or candlelightseattle.org. HOLIDAY ART FESTIVAL: The 34th annual Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, through Dec. 24, at 1825 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham. The festival will close at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 24. The festival features the work of more than 100 local artisans and craftspeople offering handmade products including jewelry, paintings, wearable art, specialty foods, repurposed art and more. Enjoy live music, artist demos and workshops, and fun art projects for kids. For information, contact Katy Borden at 360-6768548, ext. 5, or visit alliedarts.org.

SANTA AT THE MALL: Visit Santa daily during mall hours through Dec. 24 at the Cascade Mall Center Court, 201 Cascade Mall Drive, Burlington. 360-7572072.

made in the 1930s) recently handquilted by the Guemes Island Women’s Fellowship. $7 admission, $5 military and students, free for members and ages 11 and younger. 360-466-4288 or lacon nerquilts.com.

SKAGIT CHRISTMAS: Check out special exhibits showing how early Skagitonians celebrated the Yuletide season, through Dec. 31 at the Skagit County Historical Museum, 501 S. Fourth St., La Conner. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through “A CHRISTMAS CAROL”: Seat- Sunday. $5, $4 seniors and ages tle’s ACT Theatre presents Dick- 6 to 12, $10 families, free for ens’ classic holiday tale through members and ages 5 and younger. Dec. 29 at The Allen Theatre, 700 360-466-3365 or skagitcounty.net/ Union St., Seattle. Showtimes museum. vary. $27-$65 plus applicable fees. 206-292-7676 or acttheatre.org. WINTERFEST: Enjoy free and affordable activities and “AN IMPROVISED CHRISTentertainment through Dec. 31 MAS CAROL”: 8:30 p.m. Thursat Seattle Center, 305 Harrison days through Saturdays and 7 St., Seattle. Visit Center House ‘TIS THE SEASON: Check out p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 28, at for free performances of music the historic 1891 Gaches ManUnexpected Productions’ Market and comedy, jazz and dance, culsion decorated for the holidays Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle. tural celebrations, ice sculpting, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday “An Improvised Christmas student showcases and more. The through Sunday, through Dec. Carol” brings Charles Dickens’ Winterfest Ice Rink will be open 29, at the La Conner Quilt & Christmas classic to the stage through Jan. 5. Admission/skate Textile Museum, 703 S. Second with a twist. The audience gives rental fee applies. 206-684-7200 or St., La Conner. See a special suggestions up front, and Unexseattlecenter.com. display of seasonal quilts from pected Productions’ improvisers the museum’s permanent collec- use the suggestions to tell an CHRISTMAS TREES: The tion, including one of the oldest all new tale of how Christmas Mount Vernon Lions Club will pieces in the museum’s colleccan (or can’t) change Ebenezer offer Christmas trees in exchange tion — an 1840s Bethlehem Star. Scrooge’s life. $15 plus applicable for a donation through Dec. 21, Also on display is a red and white fees. 800-838-3006 or unexpected at 2111 Riverside Drive. DonaLog Cabin quilt (whose top was productions.org. tions will be accepted at all hours.

“HAM FOR THE HOLIDAYS: CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE PORK RIND”: Lisa Koch and Peggy Platt present their 13th holiday comedy extravaganza through Dec. 22 at ACT’s Falls Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle. Enjoy an evening full of wickedly funny social satire, musical parody and razor-sharp zingers roasting the holiday tradition. Tickets Proceeds will be used to provide start at $28 plus applicable fees. eye exams, eyeglasses and hearing Discounts are available for students and seniors. 206-292-7676 aids for those in need. 360-424or acttheatre.org. 1888. THE LIGHTS OF CHRISTMAS: More than a million Christmas lights will be displayed at the annual Lights of Christmas, from 5 to 10 p.m. daily, Dec. 18-23 and Dec. 26-29, at Warm Beach Camp, 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood. The largest holiday light display in the Northwest covers 15 acres and features family-oriented entertainment, live music, theater, crafts, food, pony rides, a petting farm, Polar Express Train rides and overnight getaway options. Meet Santa Claus or talk with “Bruce the Spruce” Christmas LIONS CHRISTMAS TREES: The Oak Harbor Lions Club will tree. General admission: $10-$15. sell Christmas trees from 10 a.m. Pay-what-you-can night: Dec. 29. to 7 p.m. through Dec. 23, or until Theater events are extra. 800-228sold out, at the Chamber of Com- 6724 or warmbeachlights.com. merce, 32630 Highway 20, Oak “SCROOGE: THE MUSICAL”: Harbor. Four- to nine-feet Nobel, Douglas, Grand, Fraser and Nor- Enjoy a ghostly holiday tale dman Fir trees cut in Washington. based on Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” through Dec. Proceeds benefit Lions causes, such as health screenings, eye and 22, at Seattle Musical Theatre, 7400 Sand Point Way, Seattle. ear exams, hearing aids, scholar$30-$40. 800-838-3006 or seattle ships and more. For more informusicaltheatre.org. mation call 360-279-2802. DROP & SHOP: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, Skagit Valley Family YMCA Activity Center and Pool, 215 E. Fulton St., Mount Vernon. Kids ages 3-12 can make holiday crafts, bake and play games while their parents go holiday shopping. Children ages 6-12 will have the option to go swimming. Snacks will be provided. $12-$20. Prior registration required: call 360336-9622 or email j.kerkvliet@ skagitymca.org.

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E6 - Thursday, December 19, 2013

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“Elysium”: The prized possession in the futuristic sci-fi thriller is a medical bed that can cure anything from leukemia to a missing face. Too bad there wasn’t a machine that writer/director Neill Blomkamp could have used to heal his script; it has more holes in it than 30 golf courses. Matt Damon, on a mission to save a polarized world, does his best, but the script takes a trek where many science fiction writers have gone before. If the story had been even one-tenth as strong as the movie’s sharp look, “Elysium” would have been a surprise hit. Sadly, it’s not. What saves the film are the magnificent visual effects. “The Lone Ranger”: The story is a standard Western tale, with the Lone Ranger (Armie Hammer) and Tonto (Johnny Depp) trying to catch the evil Butch Cavendish (William Fichtner), who is in cahoots with some dastardly businessmen. Hammer is likable enough, both as attorney John Reid and as The Masked Man. If you can accept this film is not your father’s — or even grandfather’s — “Lone Ranger,” then this latest adventure for The Masked Man and his faithful sidekick has a few fun moments. If you’re loyal to the brand, then you and your ke-mo sahbee should ride off into the sunset. “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters”: The film — just like the 2010 release “Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief” — continues to fill in that action film void between little kids and savvy teens. It is a balanced blend of the kind of action that’s found in “The Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” series and a touch of the teen angst that has made the “Twilight” series so popular. Director Thor Freudenthal shows the wisdom of Athena as he sets a quick tempo for this tale that takes the young heroes from battles in the woods to high seas adventures. A few of the special effects are weak. But the film moves at such a rapid pace, there’s not much time to dwell on any visual miscues. “One Direction: This Is Us”: Morgan Spurlock’s film about a British boy band is a melodic blend of concert footage and behind-the-scenes moments that range from comical to touching. Spurlock doesn’t just rely on the inherent popularity of the boy band. Instead, he strips away the hysteria to offer a glimpse of the guys to go with the energetic stage shows. Spurlock doesn’t shortchange the musical performances. He takes the viewer from front-row seats to a perspective so close to the

Upcoming movie releases Following is a partial schedule of coming movies on DVD. Release dates are subject to change: DEC. 24 Insidious: Chapter 2 — Sony DEC 31 Don Jon — Fox JAN. 7 Closed Circuit — Universal Inequality For All — Starz / Anchor Bay Runner Runner — Fox Thanks for Sharing — Lionsgate JAN. 14 A.C.O.D. — Paramount Blue Caprice — IFC Carrie — MGM Enough Said — Fox Fruitvale Station — Anchor Bay Lee Daniels’ The Butler — Anchor Bay Riddick — Universal Short Term 12 — New Video Group The Spectacular Now — Lionsgate 20 Feet From Stardom — Starz / Anchor Bay You’re Next — Lionsgate n McClatchy-Tribune News Service

group that it feels like the audience is the sixth member of the band. “Burn Notice: Season Seven”: Includes the series finale. “Prisoners”: Two families go to extremes to find their missing daughters. “Justified: The Complete Fourth Season”: Series stars Timothy Olyphant. “The Graduates”: Two-part special from filmmaker Bernardo Ruiz. “Night Train To Lisbon”: A look at a man’s quest for self-discovery. “The Family”: A mob family is moved to France under the witness protection program. “Shameless: The Complete Third Season”: Showtime series starring William H. Macy. “Omnibus: Gene Kelly — Dancing: A Man’s Game”: Release marks 55th anniversary of telecast. “Contest”: Bullied student cautious of new friendship. “Crawlspace”: Landlord keeps a close eye on his female tenants. “Force of Execution”: Steven Seagal stars. “Greek Gods, Heroes and Monsters”: History Channel series explores Greek myths. “Line of Duty”: Loyalties are tested. n Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 - E7

GET INVOLVED ART CALL FOR ARTISTS: The Anacortes Arts Commission invites artists to submit twoand three-dimensional artworks on the theme “Winter at PLAY” for a show set for Friday and Saturday, Jan. 3-4, at the Depot Arts & Community Center, 611 R Ave., Anacortes. Space is limited. No applications, first come, no fees. Contact Karla Locke at 360-588-6968 or email kklocke1@mac.com. RECYCLED ART CONTEST: Entries will be accepted through Jan. 23 for the fifth annual Recycled Art Contest, set for Jan. 25-26, at the Concrete Community Center. Entries must include at least 60 percent recycled or repurposed materials and should be easily portable. Entry forms are available at Annie’s Pizza Station or Northwest Garden Bling in Grasmere Village, Concrete. Prizes will be awarded by popular vote in youth and adult categories. No entry fee. For information, entry forms and rules, call Athena at 360-708-3279 or email pizzaannieb@netscape.net. POSTER ART CONTEST: The Mount Vernon Farmers Market seeks submissions of artwork by Jan. 25 for its 2014 poster. Artists may submit up to three images in any medium. The winning artist will receive $500. Send images in jpeg format via email to mvfarmer1@hotmail.com. Mail submissions to P.O. Box 2053, Mount Vernon, WA 98273. mount vernonfarmersmarket.org.

Bowman’s materials. 360464-2229 or anacortescenter forhappiness.org. “FIRE & ICE” (ANIME STYLE): 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 4-26. Create four artworks in the popular anime style, with subject matter from fantasy to sci-fi, dinosaurs to dragons. Learn about complementary and contrasting colors and the power of texture in art. $45. Register by Jan. 28: 360-7559649.

AUDITIONS “1776: A NEW MUSICAL”: Auditions will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11-12, at the Whidbey Playhouse Star Studio, 730 SE Midway Blvd, Oak Harbor. Parts are available for 23 men ages 15 to 70, and two women, one age 30 to 50 and the other 18 to 35. Come prepared to sing 16 bars of music; an accompanist will be provided. Wear comfortable clothing as a light dance will be required. Bring a resume and recent photo. The play will run April 4-27. 360-679-2237 or whidbey playhouse.com. PLAY SELECTION COMMITTEE: Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor, is looking for people who want to help choose plays for its 2014-15 season. Committee members will read and evaluate scripts and help determine the production lineup. For information or to sign up, call 360679-2237 or email office@ whidbeyplayhouse.com.

ART CLASSES

DANCE

ACRYLICS FOR BEGINNERS: With Jennifer Bowman: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18-19, at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. $165, plus optional $20 fee to borrow

FOLK DANCING: SkagitAnacortes Folkdancers meet at 7 p.m. most Tuesdays at Bayview Civic Hall, 12615 C St., Mount Vernon. Learn to folkdance to a variety of international music. Instruction begins at 7 p.m. followed by review and request

dances until 9:30. The first session is free, $3 thereafter. No partners needed. For information, contact Gary or Ginny at 360-766-6866. BEGINNER SQUARE DANCE LESSONS: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning Jan. 7, at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Couples and singles welcome. First two weeks are free, then $4 per lesson. Sponsored by the Mt. Baker Singles and Skagit Squares. 360-424-4608, 360-424-9675 or rosie@valleyint.com. CLOG DANCING FOR BEGINNERS: Free lesson from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by regular clog dancing from 11 a.m. to noon Thursdays, at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St., Mount Vernon. No fee, no partner needed. First three lessons are free. Wear comfortable shoes. Information: Rosie, 360-424-4608.

RECREATION WINTERQUEST CAMPS FOR KIDS: Burlington Parks and Recreation is offering a series of day camps for kids at 900 E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. Preregistration required: 360-755-9649 or burlingtonwa.gov/recreation. Next up: Santa’s Workshop: Ages 6 to 12, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 23. Kids will make gifts, decorations and homemade treats for loved ones. And they’ll all be wrapped and tagged before parents arrive for pickup. $55. Winter Wonders 2-Day Camp: Ages 6 to 12, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 26-27. Create snowflakes, snow globes, homemade hot chocolate and other fun wintery crafts. Includes field trips to Comcast Skate Arena for ice skating and Arne Hanna Aquatic Center for swimming. $75.

Movin’ and Shakin’ 2-Day Camp: Ages 6 to 12, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 30-31. Burn up some energy at the gymnastics place and Absolute Airplay. In between will be games and making milkshakes. $70. Wet and Wild 2-Day Camp: Ages 10 to 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Jan. 2-3. Scale the walls for two hours at Vertical World in Everett and down some Fro Yo. Also, tour the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention, learn about Tesla coils (lightning machines) and go swimming for two hours at the Arne Hanna Aquatic Center. $105.

THEATER DANCE FOR ACTORS: Eight-week workshop from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays beginning Jan. 4 at Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway

Blvd., Oak Harbor. Improve your movement technique for auditions and shows. The workshop will conclude with an informal show on Saturday, March. 1. $75. Preregistration required: 360-6792237 or whidbeyplayhouse. com.

Community Theater. Feb. 23: Global Rhythm: Discover music and basic music concepts with drummer Mary Ellen Hodges using drums, shakers and other instruments.

YOUTH THEATRE: McIntyre Hall is offering a series of performing arts workshops for ages 6 to 12 at 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. All classes will be held at 1 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are free but required and available by calling 360-4167727, ext. 2, or by visiting mcintyrehall.org. Jan. 19: I Like to Move it!: Learn about dance and movement from the Northwest Ballet Theatre artists. Feb. 9: Let’s Play: Explore a variety of theater games and improvisational exercises with Philip Prudhomme from the Anacortes

S-W PHOTO WORKSHOPS: Nationally known scenic photographer Andy Porter will offer photography workshops at the Sedro-Woolley Chamber of Commerce, 714-B Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. Bring your camera and instruction book to class. Point and Shoot Camera: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, or Thursday, Jan. 30. Digital SLR Camera: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, or Wednesday, Jan. 29. $25 per class, payable by cash or check. RSVP: 360809-0661 or email andyport erphotography@gmail.com.

WORKSHOPS

New Works By:

Mark CONLey

La Conner Seaside Gallery

Open five days a week • Thursday - Monday 11-5 Laconnerseasidegallery.com • 101 N. 1st street, La Conner

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E8 - Thursday, December 19, 2013

MUSIC Associated Press music writers Mesfin Fekadu and Chris Talbott pick their top 10 albums of the year.

MESFIN FEKADU

1. Ariana Grande, “Yours Truly”: Executed perfectly (or close to it), there are a few elements to creating a perfect pop album: great songwriting, groovy melodies and vocals that capture and reel you in. With the help of Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, 20-year-old Ariana Grande crafted an album that harks on ’90s R&B and highlights her gorgeous, rich tone that mirrors Mariah Carey and, at times, Toni Braxton. From the hip-hop flavored jam “Right There” to the honeyed ballads “Daydreamin’” and “Tattooed Heart,” Grande’s debut is proof that a true star is on the rise. 2. Dawn Richard, “Goldenheart”: While Danity Kane’s reunion was somewhat exciting, Dawn Richard’s solo project was electrifying. The singer, who was also part of the Diddy-Dirty Money trio, is in perfect form on “Goldenheart,” where she explores various R&B and pop sounds, including beats that are electronic, smooth and down-tempo. The album tells stories of Richard’s struggles in music, the good and bad times in love and more — making for a rousing, breathtaking listen. Each of the 16 tracks flow magically as Richard’s voice blends in, sounding raspy at times and soft at others. 3. Sara Bareilles, “The Blessed Unrest”: The Grammys got it right — Sara Bareilles’ third release, “The Blessed Unrest,” is one of the year’s best, thanks to its mix of upbeat and classic-sounding piano tunes, all anchored by the performer’s sweet and powerful tone. Bareilles is an exceptional songwriter who puts on a live show that brightens your day — and week. 4. J. Cole, “Born Sinner”: This year featured anticipated albums from Jay Z, Kanye West and Drake, but J. Cole has the rap album of the year. “Born Sinner,” his sophomore release, is full of smart rhymes that forces the listener to think. 5. Beyonce, “Beyonce”: Yes, Beyonce’s new album was just released this month, but it’s still one of the year’s best offerings. The R&B queen gets major props for literally slapping the world in the face with an album full of progressive R&B tunes that feel fresh and appealing. The impressive batch of tracks — from the addictive numbers “Drunk in Love” and “Blow” to the beautiful and soft “Heaven” — showcase the singer’s growth and easily puts her ahead of the competition.

the top 10 albums of

2013

6. Justin Timberlake, “The 20/20 Experience — 1 of 2”: Mr. SexyBack is also Mr. ComeBack. Justin Timberlake returned to music after seven years with a 10-track album that didn’t follow trends in pop, but still became 2013’s most successful album. Along with Timberland, the prince of pop has mastered the falsetto and maintains a smooth, mid-tempo sound throughout the 70-minute adventure. The songs feature the traditional Timberlake transition — how could you not adore “Strawberry Bubblegum” — and these are tunes that only he could sing. 7. Fitz and the Tantrums, “More Than Just a Dream”: Fitz and the Tantrums’ second album, “More Than Just a Dream,” is a wonderful mesh of soul and pop sounds that is upbeat and irresistible — and leaves you wanting more. They have a rock hit with the funky mellow outtake, “More Than Just a Dream,” and other songs follow suit: “Fools Gold” is pleasing, “Break the Walls” is anthemic and the hook on “6am” is oh-so appealing. 8. Janelle Monae, “The Electric Lady”: Janelle Monae’s latest album shows that the already masterful singer has grown in the three years since she released her fulllength debut, “The ArchAndroid.” “The Electric Lady” is almost as great as that work of art and features must-listen songs like “Primetime,” a duet with Miguel that is arguably the year’s best R&B song, and the Prince-assisted “Give Em What They Love,” where Monae holds her own. The title track is just as addictive. 9. Miley Cyrus, “Bangerz”: It’s sad that Miley Cyrus literally acts like a wrecking ball when her album is actually a gem. Instead of singing expected radio pop tunes, Cyrus takes risks on what’s become her official music breakthrough, and it shows that there’s more than meets the eye for this wild child. “Wrecking Ball” is one of the year’s best pop songs, “FU” and “Do My Thang” are full of swag and the Britney Spears-featured “SMS (Bangerz)” is ridiculously catchy. 10. Tegan & Sara, “Heartthrob”: Canadian sister duo Tegan and Sara have formed a pop album with feel-good songs that sound great. From the rising hit “Closer” to the multilayered groove “I Was a Fool,” the Canadian’s group eighth album is a journey of synth-pop and easy listening. It’s hard not to have a crush on “Heartthrob.”

CHRIS TALBOTT

1. Chance the Rapper, “Acid Rap”: The best music is all about the ability to cut through great geographical, cultural

and musical distances to deliver an emotion or memory that resonates one to one. I spent 2013 trying to find authentic music that taught me about people, that reaffirmed we’re all the same regardless of how much our T-shirts cost. Take Chance the Rapper. “Acid Rap,” the second mix tape from this 20-year-old Chicago MC who turned down all the major labels to tour the country in a beat-up RV, is a stream-of-consciousness epic. It’s full of delightful romps of juvenile delinquency mixed with a few frightening moments that drip with a sense of dread and paranoia. Check out the second half of “Pusha Man” if you want to see what it feels like to be scared all the time. Or take it in the opposite direction with the righteously unhinged “Smoke Again” or my favorite track, “NaNa,” featuring Action Bronson. 2. Queens of the Stone Age, “… Like Clockwork”: Josh Homme turned in one of his most nuanced, thoughtful and emotionally powerful albums with this melancholy examination of mortality in what was otherwise a tepid year for rock ‘n’ roll. The music was difficult both thematically — it was written after Homme nearly died during surgery — and technically with upheaval within the band lengthening the recording process. Dave Grohl, Elton John and other friends joined to help finish off the album. Songs like favorites “My God Is the Sun” and “Smooth Sailing” rank among the best the band has produced, while “The Vampyre of Time and Memory” and “If I Had a Tail” are among the most revealing. 3. Earl Sweatshirt, “Doris”: For a while there Earl Sweatshirt was a myth. We finally met the real guy behind the persona on the long-awaited “Doris,” and his music was far more interesting than the buzz that accompanied his yearlong disappearance from public life. Earl tells you more about himself on songs like favorites “Burgundy” and “Chum” — his feelings about his parents, his friendship with Tyler, the Creator, the claustrophobic crush of attention — than he’s revealed in hours of interviews. It all rolls out in dense, dazzling verses packed with triple meaning with a world view that’s refreshingly honest and devoid of pop aspirations. 4. J. Cole, “Born Sinner”: J. Cole moved the release date of “Born Sinner” to the same day as Kanye West’s “Yeezus.” On purpose. Thanks to this bold move, June 18 turned out to be the day of the year in music (check out Nos. 5 and 6). While Ye initially outsold him, Cole’s sunny outlook, smart humor, nimble production and positive energy eventually

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 - E9

MUSIC won the day. Cole lays out just why he’s different from his rivals on favorite “Let Nas Down” and lays down his own I’mthe-greatest verse with the help of Lamar himself on “Forbidden Fruit.” 5. Kanye West, “Yeezus”: Abrasive, angry, sometimes absurd, but endlessly fascinating, “Yeezus” is a punch in the face to the status quo. Grouse all you want about West’s lyrical content, ridiculous statements and outsized ego, the man’s production work is so far in the future you might as well call it science fiction. He opens the album by declaring “Yeezy season approaching … a monster about to come alive again,” and he’s still in the news raging about this or that six months later. There’s plenty here to identify with. And when West twines his voice with Nina Simone’s in the opening to favorite “Blood on the Leaves,” it’s just plain beautiful. Who cares what he’s saying? 6. Mac Miller, “Watching Movies With the Sound Off”: Few might have predicted Mac Miller would hold his own against Cole and West on June 18, but he turned it into something of a Mexican standoff with an impressive 19-track album that announced him as a producer and lyricist worth hearing. Miller delivered an album with unexpected depth, a masterful sense of mood and an excellent feel for the groove that in many ways rivals “Yeezus” for its constant inventiveness. New friends like Jay Electronica, Earl Sweatshirt, Tyler, the Creator, and Schoolboy Q help maintain the energy. And just when you think he can’t keep it up any longer, 15 or so tracks in, Diplo shows up on favorite “Goosebumpz” and the party goes on all night. 7. Drake, “Nothing Was the Same”: This was my most anticipated album of the year, and while it didn’t satisfy like “Take Care,” Noah “40” Shebib’s production is stunning and I learned more about Drake than I ever expected to. Ignore all the swaggin’ and braggin’. Listen to the personal verses about his relationships with Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj on the sprawling “Tuscan Leather” and “the issues at hand we’re not discussin’” with his mother on “Too Much,” featuring Sampha, and tell me you can’t relate. Favorite track and leadoff single, “Started From the Bottom,” told us to expect something different, and “Nothing” delivered in some really interesting ways. 8. Parquet Courts, “Light Up Gold”: I miss Pavement. Since it looks like Stephen Malkmus and the guys aren’t going to give us new music, I’ve been looking

AP music writers’ top 5 songs of the year Associated Press music writers Chris est I ain’t talking about later/I’m a Talbott and Mesfin Fekadu pick their drop the album same day as Kanye/just top five songs of the year. to show the boys I’m the man now like Wanya/And I don’t mean no disrespect CHRIS TALBOTT … but this what’s next, the boy sick, 1. Drake, “Started from the Botcan’t disinfect.” Sick, indeed. tom”: Sometimes a song hits you at the 4. Dawes, “From a Window Seat”: right time and place in life, becomes a A coincidence: I sit down in a window part of the soundtrack for your list of seat on a flight and hit play. It’s this moments. “Started from the Bottom” song. I hit repeat. And again. And is one of these songs. I’ll never forget again. Songs like this don’t really exist where I was when I heard it. And I’ll anymore. The craft has changed, the never forget how it crystallized what value of storytelling diminished. MusiI was feeling at the moment. Drake cally and lyrically, “Window Seat” got dinged because he didn’t exactly transports you to other times and placstart at the bottom, but the simple and es, just like the best songs should. hypnotic song is an anthem for anyone 5. Ashley Monroe, “Weed Instead lucky enough to feel like a world-beat- of Roses,” and Brandy Clark, “Get er for a day. High”: While the men of country were 2. Kanye West, “Blood on the hogging all the radio airplay, leaving Leaves”: On an album packed full of a trail of empties in their wake, these thought-provoking music, “Blood on 20-something women joined with the Leaves” showed just how far ahead Kacey Musgraves to push the genre of everyone else West is. Cobbled from forward. Musically traditional, but lyridisparate elements that surely can’t go cally modern in every way, Monroe and together, the song is the most beautiClark are making music for the legions ful moment of “Yeezus” and stands of fans turned on to country music as among his greatest achievements. The teens by Taylor Swift, and now navigatsong also provides the volcanic heart of ing adult life. The songwriting is mature West’s live show. and of the moment, the music vital. 3. J. Cole featuring Kendrick Lamar, Country radio’s not playing them, but “Forbidden Fruit”: There were a lot we advise you to put in the effort to of great songs on Cole’s “Born Sinfind them on your own. ner,” but he takes it to another level with the game’s top player guesting on this throwback ode to A Tribe Called MESFIN FEKADU Quest. This song serves as Cole’s “Con1. Bruno Mars, “Gorilla”: “Gorilla” trol,” the song Lamar used to announce is an example of Bruno Mars’ musihis greatness. The presence of Lamar cal prowess: It’s vocally impressive, only adds to the legitimacy when Cole sultry and smoky, and beat-laden. It’s boasts: “When I say that I’m the great- the perfect pop song, and the best one

for a suitable replacement. Brooklyn’s Parquet Courts comes the closest to reproducing the elegant anarchy of my ’90s slacker heroes. Songs like “Master of My Craft,” ”Borrowed Time” and favorite “Disney P.T.” remind me of how clever wordplay and minor chords used to make me so happy. 9. The Civil Wars, “The Civil Wars”: We can live with it if this is the last new material we’ll get from the Southern gothic duo that served as a cornerstone of the seemingly short-lived folk rock

movement. The apparent breakup of Joy Williams and John Paul White was the saddest story in music this year and came as they released an album that showed unbound potential by turning up the guitars and the tension. The emotion here is razor sharp, opening with favorite track “The One That Got Away,” a song that stings like a switchblade to the cheek. 10. Danny Brown, “Old”: Danny Brown threw the biggest curveball of 2013, and the result was one of the year’s most harrowing albums. Brown mostly

released this year. 2. Robin Thicke featuring Pharrell and T.I., “Blurred Lines”: Robin Thicke has been making impressive music for more than a decade, but it’s nice to see him achieve his pop success with “Blurred Lines.” The ubiquitous track was the year’s most playful single, and induces your bones to dance. Everybody get up! 3. Solange, “Lovers In the Parking Lot”: Like Solange’s “Losing You,” released last year, “Lovers In the Parking Lot” proves that she is a multitalent who has a voice worth listening to. “Lovers,” highlighted by the drums, is an R&B mid-tempo tune that’s hard to resist. Solange’s voice is soft on the track, as she sings about being a foolish lover. You’d be foolish not to love the song. 4. Lady Gaga featuring R. Kelly, “Do What U Want”: Despite Lady Gaga and R. Kelly’s cringe-worthy “Saturday Night Live” performance, their work together is impeccable. “Do What U Want” is a top notch track with a backbeat that is engaging. Gaga and the R&B crooner trade verses that flow nicely, and it is proof that people shouldn’t count out the pop diva just yet. 5. Lana Del Rey, “Summertime Sadness (Cedric Gervais Remix)”: A year after her “SNL” disaster, Lana Del Rey broke into the top 10 with a remix of “Summertime Sadness,” an electronic dance number that makes the original mid-tempo version, already an incredible track, even more likeable — that’s thanks to DJ-producer Cedric Gervais.

put aside the toothless jester persona that drove his breakthrough “XXX,” returning to songs about street life in Detroit or the postparty reality of his newfound success. He relates the horrors of a trip to the store on the menacing “Wonderbread” and ignores messages from his daughter as he crushes pills on a hotel room menu on “Clean Up.” ”Hipster by heart but I can tell you how the streets feel,” Brown raps on the dreamy “Lonely, “Everybody thirsty and they’re looking for a refill.”

E10 Thursday, December 19, 2013

ON STAGE

ADVENTURES IN BARRYWOOD

A wealth of memorable movie villains in 2013 By BARRY KOLTNOW The Orange County Register

Benedict Cumberbatch as Khan in “Star Trek Into Darkness.” Rex Features via AP Images

s there a Hans Gruber in the house? Can Hannibal Lecter come out and play? Darth Vader, please report to the principal’s office. You know where I’m heading with this — it’s our annual list of the most memorable movie villains of the year. Heroes are only as good as their villains are bad. A worthy adversary is necessary in measuring the worth of our heroes. Every actor will tell you that it’s more fun to play a villain than a hero. The good guy must stay within a structure and conduct himself by certain rules of behavior, which can be confining for an actor. But a bad guy doesn’t have to play by the rules so it is inherently more freeing than a leading man role. But not all villains are created equal. Some villains are dastardly but delightful, like the aforementioned Hans Gruber, played so well by British actor Alan Rickman in “Die Hard.” Likewise, Hannibal Lecter and Darth Vader are villains we love to hate. The flip side to those lovable villains, of course, are the movie characters we don’t like so much but love to watch on the big screen. Amon Goethe, the sadistic Nazi camp commandant of Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List,” played with chilling efficiency by Ralph Fiennes, and Nurse Ratched of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (Louise Fletcher) are not the kinds of people you’d like to meet in a dark alley, although you love them in a darkened movie theater. So, how does this year’s crop of movie villains look? Do any of them have staying power? Will any of them be remembered 10, 20 or 30 years from now? The only test is the test of time. 1. Edwin Epps: Played by Michael Fassbender in “12 Years a Slave,” he is the

Thursday, December 19, 2013 E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

sinister slave owner who is so much more complicated than the classic mustache twirler of the Silent Era, who would look into the camera and twirl his mustache as he tied the damsel to the railroad tracks. The best villains are complex, and Epps is conflicted as he inflicts beatings on the same young female slave that he also covets. It is a performance that not only will be remembered, but might bring Oscar nominations to both Fassbender and his victim, a young actress fresh out of the Yale School of Drama — Lupita Nyong’o. 2. Bilal: The terrorist leader opposite Tom Hanks in the thriller “Captain Phillips” was played by newcomer Barkhad Abdirahman, who responded to an ad in a Minneapolis newspaper. The filmmakers conducted their search for actors to play Somali pirates within the substantial Somali community in Minnesota. Who knew there was a substantial Somali community in Minnesota? 3. Khan: Benedict Cumberbatch (that’s right, another British actor) plays Captain James T. Kirk’s formidable foe in “Star Trek Into Darkness,” and almost makes us forget Ricardo Montalban, who first breathed life into the Khan character in the 1982 film “Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan,” which remains to many the best “Star Trek” ever. And one of the reasons is the film’s awesome villain. 4. General Zod: Like Benedict Cumberbatch, Michael Shannon of “Boardwalk Empire” fame had to deal with the ghost of the villain’s originator (Terrence Stamp in the 1978 film “Superman”) when he pulled rank on the “Man of Steel.” 5. Loki: Let’s see, sibling rivalry leads one brother to try to kill the other brother. Where have we heard that story before? Tom Hiddleston played Thor’s villainous brother in “Thor” and “The Avengers,” and then reprised the character in the 2013 film

“Thor: The Dark World.” 6. Alien: It may have seemed as if James Franco made an appearance in every movie in 2013, but that’s not exactly true. He appeared in only half of them, and one of them was “Spring Breakers.” Former teen princesses Vanessa Hudgens and Selena Gomez got all the media attention for trying to change their squeaky-clean images, but it was Franco who stood out as a drug and arms dealer who bails the young women out of jail and then mentors them in a life of crime. 7. Butch Cavendish: Not much can be said about “The Lone Ranger,” but William Fichtner’s villain was truly villainous. The bird on Johnny Depp’s head was a close second. 8. The Mandarin: Ben Kingsley’s terrorist leader in “Iron Man 3” is not what he seems. That’s all we can say under penalty of death. 9. Harlan DeGroat: Woody Harrelson in “Out of the Furnace” is not channeling Woody Boyd of “Cheers.” 10. President Snow: Donald Sutherland is a politician that everybody can hate in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” regardless of which side of the aisle you sit. 11. Ed Pegram: Stacy Keach has rarely been more menacing than in his current role in “Nebraska.” He is not a super-villain with dreams of world domination, but he becomes a dominating force in Bruce Dern’s world when he tries to extort money from someone he believes has just won a fortune. It’s a quiet menacing, and it’s done in black and white, so there is danger in the air. 12. Owen Shaw: If you thought Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) was tough in “Fast & Furious 6,” imagine how tough villain Owen Shaw (Luke Evans) is when he tells Dom: “I can reach out and break you any time I want.” 13. Violet Weston: Meryl Streep could play a can of peas and win an Oscar, so imagine how delightfully sinister she is in “August: Osage County,” based on Tracy Letts’ Pulitzer Prize-winning play. As a villain, she doesn’t technically kill anyone, but what she does to her three daughters is pretty close to character assassination. 14. Smaug: Yes, we’re talking about the dragon in Peter Jackson’s “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.” This isn’t Puff the Magic Dragon. This is a nasty, trash-talking monster who likes to play with his food before he eats it. 15. The zombies: Remember when I told you that a hero is only as good as his villain? Well, what villain could match Brad Pitt’s pretty face better than millions of zombies in “World War Z”?

in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area December 19-22

TUNING UP Playing at area venues December 20-29 SATURDAY.21 FAT JAMES AND FATBACK 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3956.

Thursday.19 THEATER

“Mama Won’t Fly”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com. “Christmas Snapshots” – Holiday Musical Revue: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $14. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com. “Grace on Deck!” (musical comedy): 6 p.m., The Lights of Christmas Baylight Theatre at Warm Beach Camp, 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood. Dinner theater: $39-$48. 800-228-6724 or warmbeachlights. com.

Friday.20 THEATER

“Mama Won’t Fly”: 8 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com. “Christmas Snapshots” – Holiday Musical Revue: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $14. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com. “Grace on Deck!” (musical comedy): 6 p.m., The Lights of Christmas Baylight Theatre at Warm Beach Camp, 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood. Dinner theater: $39-$48. 800-228-6724 or warmbeachlights.com.

Saturday.21

FRIDAY.20 1967 9 p.m. to midnight, Varsity Inn, 112 N. Cherry St., Burlington. No cover. 360-755-0165.

FRIDAY.20 Ria Peth Vanderpool and Karina Mitchell: 8 p.m., 1st Street Cabaret & Speakeasy, 612 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $5 cover. 360-336-3012.

Goodson: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360422-6411.

Sunday.22 THEATER

“Mama Won’t Fly”: 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com. “Grace on Deck!” (musical comedy): 4 p.m., The Lights of Christmas Baylight Theatre at Warm Beach Camp, 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood. Dessert matinee: $24-$29. 800-228-6724 or warmbeachlights. com.

Funky Santa Costume Party with the Chris Eger Band: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. Prizes for Best Mr. & Mrs. Santa. $10 cover. 360-445-3000.

Midnight Sun: 7 to 10 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. Open to the public. 360-848-8882.

Navigator Communicator, He Whose Ox Is Gored, Thieves of Eden: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

SATURDAY.21 Goodson: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Trevor Hanson: 8 p.m., 1st Street Cabaret & Speakeasy, 612 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $5 cover. 360-3363012.

Lane Fernando (Americana, rock): 8 p.m., Big Rock Café, 14779 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. No cover. 360-424-7872.

THEATER

“Mama Won’t Fly”: 8 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com. “Christmas Snapshots” – Holiday Musical Revue: 2:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $14. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com. “Grace on Deck!” (musical comedy): 6 p.m., The Lights of Christmas Baylight Theatre at Warm Beach Camp, 20800 Marine Drive, Stanwood. Dinner theater: $39-$48. 800-228-6724 or warmbeachlights.com.

Solo Piano Night: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-766-6266.

1967: 9 p.m. to midnight, Varsity Inn, 112 N. Cherry St., Burlington. No cover. 360-755-0165.

El Colonel and Doubleshot with Mary De La Fuente (blues): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $7. 360-445-3000.

SUNDAY.22

Fat James and Fatback: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3956.

WEDNESDAY.25

Rock and blues jam with CC Adams: 5 to 9 p.m., The Station House, 315 Morris St., La Conner. 360466-4488.

Matt Rehfeldt: 6 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

Ron W. Bailey: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-7666266.

Fidalgo Swing: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360588-1720.

Sly Mr. Y (highenergy classic rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877275-2448.

Smoke Wagon – Surfin’ Christmas Party: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-766-6266.

A Clambake Christmas, with Sanoma: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

FRIDAY.27 The Fenderbenders: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Holiday Jam, with Wayne Hayton, Johnny Bulldog, Holmes Shea Band, Kerry and the Keepers: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. No cover.

SATURDAY.28 The Fenderbenders: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-4226411.

Joe Argo: 9 p.m. to midnight, Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666330.

Solo Piano Night: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-7666266.

Jim Cull: 7 to 10 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. 360848-8882.

SUNDAY.29 Br’er Rabbit: 8 p.m., Big Rock Café, 14779 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. No cover. 360424-7872.

Kim Snyder: 8 p.m., 1st Street Cabaret & Speakeasy, 612 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $5 cover. 360336-3012.

Big Dog Revue: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover.

El Colonel and Doubleshot: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3956.

Ford Giesbrecht: 7:30 p.m., Washington Sips, 608 S. First St., La Conner. 360399-1037.

The Listers: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-7666266.

Eagle Teeth, Animal Inside: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360778-1067.

Bow Diddlers: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-7666266.

Ben Starner (piano): 6 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. No cover. 360445-3000.