360 December 26 2013 full by Skagit Publishing

The hot spots to ring in the New Year PAGE 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday December 26, 2013

Reviews

On Stage

At the Movies

Video Games: The top 10 of the year Music: Beyonce, ‘Music of Nashville’

Lane Fernando plays the Longhorn Saloon & Grill on Saturday in Edison

Ben Stiller’s sweet spin on “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, December 26, 2013

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

Travel / Pages 12-13 Visiting the hallowed grounds of Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis.

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

Get Involved........................................ 6 At the Lincoln...................................... 7 New on DVD....................................... 7 The Year’s Best in Video Games......... 8 On Stage, Tuning Up....................10-11 Travel............................................12-13 Hot Tickets........................................ 14 Movie Review: “... Walter Mitty”.......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 26, 2013 - E3

CELEBRATIONS

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve is Tuesday, Dec. 31. There are numerous entertainment options that night to provide the soundtrack for a festive entrance to the new year. Celebrate responsibly! RIVERTALK

BELLINGHAM

Maple Hall in La Conner

Ring in the new year with Scary Monster & The Super Creeps at 9 p.m. at The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $10. 360-778-1067 or shakedownbellingham.com.

Dance to The Fenderbenders from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at the Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360422-6411.

SEDRO-WOOLLEY

BOW

Area square dancers will dance in the New Year beginning at 8:30 p.m. at the Skagit Valley Grange, 21273 Cook Road, SedroWoolley. Jointly hosted by The Skagit Squares and Mt. Baker Singles of Mount Vernon, the Fidalgo Fogcutters of SedroWoolley and the Rainbow Squares of Lynden, the celebration will feature callers Dave Harry and Bob and Linda Berka. For information, contact Will Shively at 360-755-0656 or email wshive08@comcast.net.

Enjoy dinner, dancing and music by The Afrodisiacs, The Spazmatics and Mr. Pink from 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the Pacific Showroom, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $90, includes buffet dinner, party favors, a keepsake gift, no-host bar. 877-275-2448.

CONWAY

Enjoy a gala dance and party with the Mark DuFresne Band, Wayne Hayton and Fat Slim Lips, at the Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $25 cover. Dinner buffet available from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.: $25. 360-445-3000.

STANWOOD

LA CONNER

Enjoy music, food and more at 8 p.m. at Maple Hall, 104 Commercial, La Conner. Live music by Rivertalk, costume contest, raffles, food, beer, wine and more. $15 advance, $20 at the door, $30 couples. 360540-9478 or Facebook.com/ rivertalk.

MOUNT VERNON

Craig Parrish / Skagit Valley Herald

MARK DUFRESNE BAND Conway Muse

THE AFRODISIACS

Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow

Enjoy music by Angie & the Car Wrecks, More America, Trainwreck and Hard Money Saints at 7:30 p.m. at the former Cyndyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Broiler, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. The music ranges from psychobilly, country, punk rock with washboard rhythm and metal guitars to drudging outlaw country. Admission: $10. Alcoholic beverages and a $10 buffet will be available for purchase. 425737-5144 or email cookiespirk@wavecable.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, December 26, 2013

MOVIES

en Stiller’s commonality with the hero of his new film hasn’t gone unnoticed. “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” starring and directed by Stiller, is adapted from James Thurber’s classic short story that first appeared in The New Yorker in 1939. Since then, Walter Mitty (a mild-mannered man who enlivens a mundane day with a series of fantasies) has been synonymous with daydreaming and flights of imagination. Stiller, too, hopes for something a little different for his life: He wants to direct more movies and make films outside of the comedies he’s best known for. “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” a kind of remake of the 1947 Danny Kaye version, is a big-budget, big-scale shift for the 48-year-old Stiller. It’s his fifth time directing a movie (from “Reality Bites” to “Tropic Thunder”), but his first time helming a film that, while funny, isn’t quite a comedy. Having just wrapped shooting on another film with “Greenberg” director Noah Baumbach in Brooklyn, Stiller recently met with a reporter in New York to discuss his new trajectory. AP: With “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” opening on a crowded Christmas for moviegoing, do you feel particular pressure? Stiller: (Laughs.) Honestly, I think I feel the same thing that I feel every time a movie comes out — which is: It’s a lot of pressure and, at same time, it’s really, totally out of my hands. AP: Are you comfortable at this point directing and acting at the same time? Stiller: I don’t think you ever get totally comfortable with it. You get into a rhythm with it. But I always feel like every time you start up, it’s always figuring it out. There’s always that frustration that’s going on where you’re like: I just wish I could be behind the camera also.

Ben Stiller in shown in a scene from “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.”

Q&A

Ben Stiller dreams of a shift with ‘Mitty’ By JAKE COYLE / AP Film Writer

20th Century Fox via AP

directing, and that’s always been something that I’ve known in my head that that’s where I see myself ending up, anyway. AP: Even when you haven’t directed, you’ve surrounded yourself with ensembles and been a strong voice in shaping the films. Stiller: What I learned early on when I started being the main character in movies, I realized that there’s a responsibility with that in terms of what the audience is going to see. An audience doesn’t delineate who produced that, or who directed that. They’re like, ‘Oh, I’m going to go see Ben in a movie.’ There’s a responsibility that I felt I had, to varying levels of success (laughs) in that process — unless I was going into a world of a director, someone like Noah, where I felt, ‘This guy had such a specific sensibility.’ … I feel like I learned from those experiences. I have a different approach going into movies now. AP: How so? Stiller: Sometimes I went against the grain more. Now, I wouldn’t. At a certain point, you can push and push, and you don’t get the result that you want and it doesn’t help the person that’s trying to make the movie. That, for me, has been the learning experience over the years.

Stiller: There was this moment where they dropped me in the water and the boat went away to get a POV shot coming back at me, and I was just totally alone in the water. It was that thing: Wow, this has gone beyond making a movie now. This is just me, the ocean.

AP: Were you aiming to be AP: That must be especially a director as early as “The Ben difficult when you’re, as Mitty, floating in the middle of the North Stiller Show”? Many credit the 1992-93 sketch series as hugely Atlantic Ocean.

influential to comedy since. Stiller: It was always what excited me the most. We’d have a sketch that was a parody of a Scorsese movie or something like that, or something that all of sudden became its own little movie. I remember one sketch we did that was a restaurant where they were serving human beings. It was like a ‘Soylent Green’ sort of thing. We had been canceled and we knew we were canceled, and we were shooting our last episode. It was

this 11-page sketch that was a little sort of horror movie. I remember having one of the best experiences on the show doing that one. It was like making a little movie. AP: Do you ever wish you limited yourself more to directing? Stiller: It’s not something I think about in terms of: ‘Oh, if I had just not been an actor, people would think of me as a director, or take me more seriously, or something like that. I’ve always enjoyed

AP: You’ve long aimed to make a movie of George Saunders’ “CivilWarLand in Bad Decline.” What are you interested in doing now? Stiller: Just different kinds of movies that I’m not necessarily in. I think that opens up (laughs) the casting possibilities. I look forward to doing that, just something I feel passionate and connected to. I would love to do something that’s not necessarily comedic. But I also don’t want to go and do something that’s ultra-dark and serious just to do that.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 26, 2013 - E5

MOVIES

Diversity efforts slow to change the face of Oscar voters entire constituency, according to a Los Angeles Times analysis. Even with the 432 new LOS ANGELES — The voting members, the overall next Academy Awards academy is still 93 percent promise to be one of the white, a decrease of less most inclusive ever for than 1 percent from what people of color. the Times found in a 2012 As many as a dozen membership study, and 76 black filmmakers, actors percent male, also a less and actresses are expected than 1 percent decrease to be in the running for from what the Times found Oscars in major categotwo years ago. ries such as director, actor John Ridley, an Africanand supporting actress American screenwriter when nominations are who wrote the “12 Years announced on Jan. 16. a Slave” screenplay, took Yet despite recent efforts note of the irony: From all by the Academy of Motion outward appearances, this Picture Arts and Sciences is a banner year for diverto expand and diversify its sity in Hollywood. ranks, the overall group His film, directed by of 6,028 Academy Award the black filmmaker Steve voters remains much more McQueen, received seven white than the diverse Golden Globe nominations, group of filmmakers likely and other black-themed to be short-listed for the films including “Lee Danbest work in 2013’s movies. iels’ The Butler” and direcThe academy has invited tor Ryan Coogler’s “Fruit452 people to join its ranks vale Station” are getting over the last two years, an awards-season buzz. “Gravunusually high number ity,” by Mexican-born even though 20 of them director Alfonso Cuaron, were nonvoting slots. By is also considered a strong accepting more members, bet for Oscar recognition. the academy hoped to “It’s been a terrific time bring more women and for people of color,” Ridley minorities into the organi- said. But “black people zation. especially have a long way Although the two new to go” in gaining better classes are noticeably more representation behind the diverse than in past years, scenes, he added. He said they failed to change the the academy data prove face of the academy in a “it will take a long time to material way because new change.” members make up such The academy does not a small percentage of the release demographic inforBy JOHN HORN and DOUG SMITH Los Angeles Times

Fox Searchlight Films via AP

Chiwetel Ejiofor is shown in a scene from “12 Years A Slave.” mation on its members. To conduct its analysis, the Times, using public records and private databases, was able to confirm the race, gender and age of all but 45 of the 432 new voting members. Both classes from 2012 and 2013 were about 69 percent male. The 2012 class was about 87 percent white and now has a median age of 50, while the 2013 class was about 82 percent white and has a median age of 49, the Times analysis found. “It certainly reads better than it has. So we are moving in the right direction,” said Cheryl Boone Isaacs, the academy’s first African-American president, who was selected in July. Improving diversity, she added, is a “constant goal.” The average age of academy members also continued to inch up — from 62 to 63 — despite

the organization’s efforts to bring in younger people. That’s a difficult trend to reverse because there are far more existing members than new members, and those existing members are all another year older. Partly in response to the Times’ 2012 study, the academy in April of this year relaxed its membership quotas, which for the preceding decade had limited the number of new members to roughly the same number of members who had retired, resigned or died. Earlier this year, the academy invited 276 people to become members, including singer-actress Jennifer Lopez, newly appointed Warner Bros. Chief Executive Kevin Tsujihara and tough-guy actor Danny Trejo. The two classes of invitees before that were much smaller — 2012 had 176 invitees and

2011 had 178. Even if the academy continues to add classes as diverse as its 2012 and 2013 in the years ahead, changes in its overall membership will be slow. Even assuming a historically high annual attrition rate — those who die or retire from the academy — of 200 of the organization’s oldest members, with those leaving the academy replaced by inductees whose demographics mirror those of the last two classes, the academy still would be 89 percent white and 72 percent male by 2023. Its median age would drop to 61. Isaacs reiterated what her predecessors have said: That the academy will not lower its standards simply to make the membership more diverse. People can become academy members in one of three ways: land an Oscar nomination; get

a recommendation from two members; or get an endorsement from a membership committee or the academy staff. At the same time, Isaacs said she has no plans to reinstate the quota system that had limited the number of potential new inductees to match the number of people who had died or left the academy. “We want all of our members to be more proactive in terms of looking at the people they work with, and suggesting that different people apply for membership who haven’t before,” Isaacs said. “Fruitvale Station” director Coogler said having people of color being recognized for their work can only help encourage the next generation of minority filmmakers. “It’s so important seeing someone like you,” he said, “doing what it is you want to do.”

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, December 26, 2013

GET INVOLVED ART CLASSES

tor. Register by Feb. 27: 360-755-9649.

COVE (2683) or northcovecoffee.com.

Natural Resources. parks. wa.gov.

play for Whidbey Playhouse, including any specific proMOSAIC YARD ART: duction requirements. The The four-week class will playhouse is located at 730 OPEN MIC MOUNT VERINTERPRETIVE CENTER: meet from 10 a.m. to noon AUDITIONS Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. NON: 9 p.m. to midnight, The Skagit River Bald “1776: A NEW MUSIWednesdays, beginning Jan. For information, call 360Wednesdays, First Street Eagle Interpretive Center CAL”: Auditions will be 8, at the Anacortes Senior 679-2237 or email office@ Cabaret & Speakeasy, 612 is open from 10 a.m. to 4 Center, 1701 22nd St., Ana- held from 1 to 5 p.m. Satur- S. First St., Mount Vernon. p.m. Saturdays and Sunwhidbeyplayhouse.com. day and 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, cortes. $50. All supplies Ages 21 and older. No days, through Jan. 26, at the Jan. 11-12, at the Whidbey and tools will be provided CALL FOR THEATER Howard Miller Steelhead Playhouse Star Studio, 730 cover. 360-336-3012 or riv to make a bird bath for VOLUNTEERS: Whidbey erbelledinnertheatre.com. Park, 52809 Rockport SE Midway Blvd, Oak Haryour garden. Sign up at Park Road, Rockport. The Playhouse is seeking a team bor. Parts are available for the reception desk or call of behind-the-scenes folks center will present speakRECREATION 23 men ages 15 to 70, and JoAnne at 360 399-1180. for its April 2014 producers, birding information two women, one age 30 to WINTERQUEST CAMPS tion of the Tony-award and guided walks along 50 and the other 18 to 35. FOR KIDS: Burlington “FIRE & ICE” (ANIME winning musical “1776” the Skagit River through Come prepared to sing 16 Parks and Recreation is STYLE): 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesthat celebrates the birth of the park. 360-853-7626 or offering a series of day days, Feb. 4-26. Create four bars of music; an accomour nation. Assistance is skagiteagle.org. panist will be provided. camps for kids at 900 E. artworks in the popular needed for set building and Wear comfortable clothFairhaven Ave., Burlington. anime style, with subject decorating, lighting, prop WINTER WALK: Join the matter from fantasy to sci- ing as a light dance will be Preregistration required: acquisitions and costuming. Friends of Camano Island required. Bring a resume fi, dinosaurs to dragons. 360-755-9649 or burlingFor information, contact the Parks for a guided winter and recent photo. The play Learn about complementonwa.gov/recreation. Next theater at 360- 679-2237 or walk at 9:50 a.m. Saturday, tary and contrasting colors will run April 4-27. 360up: email director Gaye Litka at Jan. 4, at Camano Island 679-2237 or whidbey and the power of texture in Movin’ and Shakin’ whidbey995@comcast.net. State Park. Meet at the art. $45. Register by Jan. 28: playhouse.com. 2-Day Camp: Ages 6 to 12, picnic shelter near the boat 360-755-9649. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday DANCE FOR ACTORS: ramp. The 2.6-mile walk PLAY SELECTION COM- and Tuesday, Dec. 30-31. Eight-week workshop from includes two elevation MITTEE: Whidbey PlayINTRO TO ACRYLIC & Burn up some energy gains of about 50 feet, with 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays beginhouse, 730 SE Midway WATERCOLOR PAINTS: at the gymnastics place ning Jan. 4 at Whidbey the rest of the walk fairly 4:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Blvd., Oak Harbor, is look- and Absolute Airplay. In Playhouse, 730 SE Midlevel. Wear weather-approing for people who want Feb. 5-25, at Burlington between will be games and way Blvd., Oak Harbor. priate clothing including to help choose plays for its Parks and Recreation Cenmaking milkshakes. $70. Improve your movement sturdy shoes or boots. ter, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave., 2014-15 season. CommitWet and Wild 2-Day technique for auditions and Walk will take place rain tee members will read and Burlington. Ages 7-13. StuCamp: Ages 10 to 14, 10 shows. The workshop will or shine; canceled if there evaluate scripts and help dents will paint and create a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and conclude with an informal is snow or extremely high something new each week determine the production Friday, Jan. 2-3. Scale the show on Saturday, March. winds. No dogs. Discover lineup. For information as they explore a range of walls for two hours at Ver1. $75. Preregistration Pass required for vehicle or to sign up, call 360-679techniques with different tical World in Everett and access to the park. Friend- required: 360-679-2237 or 2237 or email office@whid materials. Subjects include down some Fro Yo. Also, sofcamanoislandparks.org. whidbeyplayhouse.com. beyplayhouse.com. “Paint your dreams,” tour the SPARK Museum “Crazy creatures,” “My of Electrical Invention, YOUTH THEATRE: THEATER ON STAGE favorite places” and “Out learn about Tesla coils McIntyre Hall is offering of this world.” $50, plus CALL FOR DIRECTORS: ANACORTES OPEN MIC: (lightning machines) and a series of performing arts $20 supply fee payable to 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Brown go swimming for two hours Whidbey Playhouse is workshops for ages 6 to instructor. Register by Jan. Lantern Ale House, 412 at the Arne Hanna Aquatic looking for directors for 12 at 2501 E. College Way, 29. 360-755-9649. Center. $105. its 2014-15 season. The Commercial Ave., AnaMount Vernon. All classes playhouse is looking for cortes. 360-293-2544. will be held at 1 p.m. SunPASTEL PAINTING: FREE PARK ADMISfive professionally pubdays. Tickets are free but 4:30 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, SION: In recognition of lished full-length comedies, required and available by OPEN MIC: Jam Night, March 5-26, 2014, Burling- 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thurs- Martin Luther King Day, dramatic comedies, dracalling 360-416-7727, ext. 2, ton Parks and Recreation the Washington State Parks mas, mysteries, revues or days, Conway Pub & Eator by visiting mcintyrehall. Center, 900 E. Fairhaven and Recreation Commismusicals. Directors may be ery, 18611 Main St., Conorg. Ave., Burlington. Ages sion will offer free admisrequired to provide a copy way. 360-445-4733. Jan. 19: I Like to Move 7-13. Students will use oil sion to all state parks Sun- of the script plus a CD of it!: Learn about dance and pastels to create vibrant day and Monday, Jan. 19-20. the music for any musicals. BURLINGTON OPEN movement from the Northpaintings on heavy board The Discover Pass will not They may also be required west Ballet Theatre artists. MIC: 7 to 10 p.m. Saturas they explore themes be required to enter state to make a brief presentation Feb. 9: Let’s Play: days, North Cove Coffee, including “Under the sea,” 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., parks, but will be required about the play, including Explore a variety of theater “My backyard,” “Over the Burlington. Hosted by to access lands managed a short written synopsis, a games and improvisational mountains” and “Forest by the Washington Depart- drawing or model of the set exercises with Philip PrudDaniel Burnson. Rock, animals.” $50, plus $20 sup- blues, funk, folk, ukelele, ment of Fish and Wildlife plan and a description of homme from the Anacortes ply fee payable to instrucpoetry and more. 360-707- and the Department of the director’s vision for the Community Theater.

Feb. 23: Global Rhythm: Discover music and basic music concepts with drummer Mary Ellen Hodges using drums, shakers and other instruments. FREE ADULT ACTING CLASSES: Anacortes Community Theatre offers free acting classes for adults from 10 a.m. to noon the third Saturday each month at 918 M Ave., Anacortes. Classes include scripted scenes and a variety of acting games, with a different topic each month. Each class is independent, so you don’t have to commit to every session. 360-840-0089 or acttheatre.com.

WORKSHOPS 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. LOVE WRITING RETREAT: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Explore writing about love with Matthew Brouwer in all its forms — romantic, erotic, brotherly and divine. For writers of all genres and levels of experience. $30-$75 sliding scale. To register, call 425-891-7264 or email matthewbrouwerpoet@gmail. com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 26, 2013 - E7

NOTEWORTHY DVDS AND BLU-RAYS IN 2013 “Amour” (Sony, $30.99 DVD, $35.99 Blu-ray). There was much deserved acclaim for this story of a couple dealing with the effects of aging and illness. Winner of the Oscar for best foreignlanguage film. “The Bletchley Circle: Cracking a Killer’s Code” (PBS, $24.99 DVD, $29.99 Blu-ray). This mystery drama set in ’50s England is not only about a crime. It’s about the place of women in post-World War II society, particularly women who had played important roles during the war and were put back in old places afterward. I ranked it among the best new shows of 2013. A second season is due in 2014. “Graham Parker & the Rumour: This Is Live” (Shout!Factory, $21.98 Blu-ray / DVD combo). The singer and band behind “Passion Is No Ordinary Word,” “Local Girls” and “Discovering Japan” reunite for this set of performances, part of which appeared in director Judd Apatow’s “This Is 40.” “Hava Nagila: The Movie” (Cinedigm, $29.95 DVD). Funny and thoughtful chronicle of the song we all know — and the history behind it. “John Ford: The Columbia Films Collection” (Sony, $49.99). Ford, one of the great American directors, is showcased with five films, including the American DVD debuts of “The Whole Town’s Talking,” “Two Rode Together” and “Gideon’s Day,” and the return to DVD of “The Long Gray Line” and “The Last Hurrah.” Available through the shop on tcm.com. “Let’s Get Lost” (Cinedigm, $24.95 DVD). Bruce Weber’s documentary about singer-trumpeter Chet Baker was an intriguing look at a life filled with both talent and error. Baker talked to Weber, but the filmmaker went beyond that to interview loved ones and others from Baker’s life for a black-and-white film that was also a colorful chronicle. Also available with three other films in “Bruce Weber: The Film Collection” ($59.95). “Much Ado About Nothing (Lionsgate,” $19.98 DVD, $24.98 Blu-ray). Joss Whedon (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Marvel’s The Avengers”) gathered some actor friends for a few days and made this black-and-white, modern-dress version of Shakespeare’s play. Pay special attention to the excellent work by Amy Acker. “Mud” (Lionsgate, $19.98 DVD, $24.99 Blu-ray). Matthew McConaughey’s recent hot acting streak

Upcoming movie releases

AT THE LINCOLN THEATRE 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon 360-336-8955 n www.lincolntheatre.org

Following is a partial schedule of coming movies on DVD. Release dates are subject to change:

portrayed by Michael Fassbender), as well as unexpected kindnesses, Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. Rated R. $10 general; $9 seniors, students and active military; $8 members; $7 children 12 and under. Bargain matinee prices (all shows before 6 p.m.): $8 general, $6 members, $5 children 12 and under.

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

included this film in which he plays a mysterious man on a mission in Mississippi. “Not Fade Away” (Paramount, $19.98 DVD, $29.99 Blu-ray). Sopranos mastermind David Chase made his feature-film directing debut with this piece about friends forming a rock band in the ’60s. John Magaro is especially good as a character based on Chase. Somewhat fragmented storytelling is balanced by a fine soundtrack and compelling characters. James Gandolfini co-stars. “Orphan Black: Season One” (BBC $29.98 DVD, $34.98 Blu-ray). Tatiana Maslany dazzled critics as she played multiple characters — all clones of one — in this thriller. In Hitfix’s poll of TV critics (including me), it ranked fifth among new shows. A second season is coming in April. “Stories We Tell” (Lionsgate, $19.98 DVD). Director Sarah Polley took a closer look at her complicated family, especially her mother, who died when Polley was 11. The examination led to some major surprises, including one that ends the movie — and suggests that there’s still more to the story Polley tells. It’s on the motion picture academy’s short list of potential Oscar nominees for documentary. n Rich Heldenfels, Akron Beacon Journal

At the Met: ‘Falstaff’ 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 29

‘12 Years a Slave’

7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 27-28 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 29 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 30

Based on the true story of one man’s fight for survival and freedom. Chiwetel Ejiofor stars as Northup, the New York state citizen who was kidnapped and made to work on a plantation in New Orleans in the 1800s. Steve McQueen (“Hunger”) directs from a script he cowrote with John Ridley. Facing cruelty (personified by a malevolent slave owner,

Music director James Levine conducts Verdi’s opera for the first time at the Met since 2005. Robert Carsen’s production — the first new Met Falstaff since 1964 — is set in the English countryside in the mid-20th century. Ambrogio Maestri (last season’s Dulcamara in the opening-night production of L’Elisir d’Amore) sings the title role of the brilliant and blustery Sir John Falstaff, opposite an ensemble that includes Angela Meade, Stephanie Blythe, Lisette Oropesa, and Franco Vassallo. $23 adults; $19 seniors; $16 students with $2 off for Lincoln members.

New Works By:

MARK BISTRANIN

La Conner Seaside Gallery

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

E8 - Thursday, December 26, 2013

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

REVIEWS

The AP critics’ best of the year in video games The Associated Press

LOU KESTEN

1. “BioShock Infinite” (Irrational Games, for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC): The latest adventure from provocateur Ken Levine asks tough questions about the bloody path of American history. And it doesn’t provide easy answers — indeed, the more you learn about its setting, the flying city of Columbia, the loopier it gets. No other game this year bent my brain as much. 2. “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag” (Ubisoft Montreal, for the PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Wii U, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC): Stealth and swordplay have always been at the core of this series, but “Black Flag” adds a stirring new element: engrossing sea battles, as you and the crew of your pirate ship romp across the Caribbean of the 1730s. 3. “Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch” (Studio Ghibli and Level-5, for the PlayStation 3): The Japanese studios behind movies like “Spirited Away” and games like “Dragon Quest” collaborated on this sprawling epic about a kid transported to an alternate universe. It provides all the pleasures of a deep role-playing game with the charm and humor of great anime. 4. “Tomb Raider” (Crystal Dynamics, for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC): Video-game icon Lara Croft gets an origin story, as the shipwrecked heroine fights for survival on an island full of goons. As teenage Lara evolves from helpless to deadly, you can’t help but think this kid’s got

(Naughty Dog, for the PlayStation 3): Who knew the end of the world could look so good? This sweeping survival epic’s visually stunning rendition of postapocalyptic America and its completely unique take on zombies is enhanced even further by intricate performances from Troy Baker and Ashley Johnson as unlikely travel companions. 4. “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag” (Ubisoft Montreal, for the PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Wii U, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC): After last year’s sleepy Colonial ‘BIOSHOCK INFINITE’ America-set installment, 2K Games/Irrational Games via AP “Assassin’s Creed” refreshingly plunged into pirate a bright future. the creepy story all the online world so compelling politics with this entry, 5. “The Last of Us” more effective. that even anti-social gamers proving the aging historical stealth series still has new (Naughty Dog, for the Play8. “The Legend of can enjoy it. tricks up its sleeves, besides Station 3): This journey Zelda: A Link Between just a pair of hidden blades. across a post-apocalyptic Worlds” (Nintendo, for the DERRIK J. LANG 5. “Tomb Raider” (Crys1. “BioShock Infinite” United States presents one Nintendo 3DS): Nintendo tal Dynamics, for the Play(Irrational Games, for nerve-racking confrontaopens up the magical land Station 3, Xbox 360, PC): tion after another — but it of Hyrule — and its darker the PlayStation 3, Xbox Lara Croft, shipwrecked 360, PC): A breathtakwill be best remembered twin, Lorule — with a and stripped of everything, for the smartly written, looser storyline that invites ing journey to a kingdom transcends her status as in the clouds, “Infinite” is subtly acted relationship more exploration. It’s the between its protagonists, most challenging “Zelda” in equally as wondrous as it is merely a busty video-game a bitter survivor and the years, and the most reward- thought-provoking. A first- vixen in this intense origin story. Her harrowing person shooter that philively young girl he’s sworn ing. losophizes about such top- expedition across the lethal to protect. 9. “Peggle 2” (PopCap Yamatai island is grueling, ics as racism, nationalism, 6. “Gone Home” (The Games, for Xbox One): religion and fate shouldn’t desperate and exactly what Fullbright Company, for The killer app for Microthe character — and gamPC): Remember that feelsoft’s new Xbox One turns work, but this imaginative ers — needed. piece of fiction does on ing of returning to your out to be … a juiced-up 6. “The Legend of childhood home only to pachinko game. But fans of every level. 2. “Grand Theft Auto V” Zelda: A Link Between realize you don’t really the original will get exactly Worlds” (Nintendo, for the (Rockstar Games, for the know anyone who lives what they were hoping PlayStation 3, Xbox 360): Nintendo 3DS): A few darthere? That’s the mood for: a game so addictive ing innovations on the longLos Santos, the cheeky captured by this sweet, sad that, even after bouncing running “Legend of Zelda” yet hopeful mystery, told through 120 new levels, you rendition of Los Angeles, formula resulted in one of depicted in “GTA V” is a entirely through the things want more. the most captivating advena family has left behind. 10. “Final Fantasy XIV: crowning achievement in tures starring everyone’s 7. “Device 6” (Simogo, A Realm Reborn” (Square virtual world construction favorite elfy hero, Link. His — an explosive, fully realfor iOS): This witty mystery Enix, for PlayStation 3, ized, sin-filled, self-loathing ability to pop on and off reminded me of the classic PC): This massively mulwalls added a new depth playground for the game’s text adventures of the 1980s tiplayer online game was to the puzzles, and made a trio of despicable anti— except now, you have to so poorly received in 2010 heroes to do their bidding. serious case for playing in rotate your iPad to follow that its publisher pulled along. The elegant design, the plug and rebuilt it from The heists are really, really 3D. 7. “Gone Home” (The fun, too. with just a smattering of the ground up. The result Fullbright Company, for 3. “The Last of Us” pictures and music, makes is nearly a miracle: a lush

PC): There just aren’t enough games as emotionally gripping — or as beautifully ordinary — as this voyeuristic coming-ofage story that casts players as a college student who’s returned to her family’s empty house after traveling abroad. “Gone Home” is more than just a mystery set in the 1990s. It’s interactive poetry. 8. “Animal Crossing: New Leaf” (Nintendo, for the Nintendo 3DS): Realistic. Thoughtful. Edgy. Stressful. Those words do not at all describe “New Leaf,” an unabashedly silly town simulator that turned out to be a relaxing, fantastical treat — and a digital reminder of how simple acts like catching up with neighbors and plucking apples from trees can be oh-so-rewarding. 9. “Papers, Please” (3909 LLC, for PC): It sounds like the worst idea for a game ever: play as a paper-pushing immigration inspector tasked with approving or denying folks entry into an oppressive country. Yet indie designer Lucas Pope crafted a provocative, pixelated tour de force with his “dystopian document thriller” where morality and gameplay collide. 10. “Disney Infinity” (Avalanche Software, for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, Wii U, Nintendo 3DS): Taking a cue from “Skylanders” and “Minecraft,” Mickey Mouse and his cartoon militia daringly marched onto the toysmeets-games battlefield and triumphed by inspiring the imaginations of young and old with a deft combination of physical and virtual playthings.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 26, 2013 - E9

REVIEWS MUSIC CDS Compiled from news services

Beyonce “Beyonce”

Beyonce gets plenty of credit — OK, way more than plenty — as a singer, a dancer, a businesswoman, a mom. But she’s also a master of the humblebrag, that strategic assertion of modesty that actually demonstrates one’s fabulousness. She unloads a great one near the end of her just-released self-titled album, which appeared last week on iTunes free of any advance warning. First we hear Ed McMahon on “Star Search” introducing an early version of Beyonce’s group, Destiny’s Child. Then the talent-show host reveals that the outfit has been defeated by — wait, let me listen again — a band called Skeleton Crew. “Star Search” branded her a loser, the clip is telling us, but Beyonce somehow mustered the resolve to carry on. “Beyonce” (which the singer calls a “visual album”) is itself a kind of humblebrag, reminding us that only she can afford to drop product into a crowded marketplace without mounting the type of elaborate promotional campaign we’ve seen lately from the likes of Lady Gaga, Katy Perry and Justin Timberlake. “Probably won’t make no money off this,” she admits in “Haunted,” setting us up for one more delicious turnabout: “Oh well.” What’s exciting about the record, beyond its means of delivery, is how the music similarly blends the intimate and the extravagant. Made up of 14 new songs accompanied by 17 new music videos, “Beyonce” is

W inners LO U N G E

by far the most sexually minded album from a singer who’s often projected a virtuousness at odds with peers such as Rihanna and Lady Gaga. In “Jealous” she memorably describes an evening at home — “I’m in my penthouse half-naked / I cook this meal for you naked” — and in “Drunk in Love” trades terrifically raunchy come-ons with Jay Z; it’s like an NC-17 sequel to their 2003 smash “Crazy in Love.” Yet rather than dramatize these moments with in-your-face production a la Miley Cyrus, Beyonce underplays many of them, often murmuring her most explicit lyrics in a breathy purr that forces you to lean in and listen — another sly application of her power. She does the opposite in a handful of bigger-sounding production numbers, making razzle-dazzle pop out of small-scale sentiments that might’ve seemed on paper like fodder for hushed ballads. “XO,” for instance, begs a lover for a kiss amid firework synths and a marching-drum beat, while the anthemic “Pretty Hurts” makes a considered case against our obsession with physical perfection. This doesn’t mean the album forgoes the full-tilt spectacle we’ve come to expect from Beyonce. “Flawless” spikes a clattering beat and instructions to “Bow down, bitches” with a monologue by the Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. And “Blow” and “Rocket” are sumptuous retro-soul tunes that feel like the singer just wanted to flex her impressive stylistic chops; the latter approximates D’Angelo’s behind-the-beat R&B so closely that you’ll scan the liner notes to make sure he didn’t write it. (In fact, it was Beyonce working alongside Timberlake and L.A.’s Miguel.)

As for the liner notes, they too serve as part of the singer’s humblebrag here, with an absurdly expansive roster of talent — including Timbaland, Pharrell Williams, Drake, The-Dream and Frank Ocean, among many others. The list of names indicates her willingness to recruit help while at the same time emphasizing her position at the center of the pop universe. No one, it seems, says no to Beyonce — not even her nearly 2-year-old daughter, Blue Ivy, who contributes some highpitched “mommies” to the album’s spacedout closer, “Blue.” And why would anyone deny her? Songs like the woozy “Mine” and the spooky, almost perversely stripped-down “Partition” reflect her determination, rare among superstars, to keep pushing creatively. In spite of the misgivings she airs in “Haunted,” she’ll make money off this — loads of it, no doubt. But, perhaps more important, she’ll also keep hold of our attention long enough to surprise us again. n Mikael Wood, Los Angeles Times

‘Inside Llewyn Davis’ Various artists

Should he want it, a career in folk singing awaits Oscar Isaac, the actor who brings soulful depth to the sad-sack jerk title character of “Inside Llewyn Davis,” the Coen brothers’ riff on the Greenwich Village folk scene of the early 1960s. As in the movie, Isaac more than holds his own with professional singing types like Justin Timberlake, who plays a blandly likable folkie, and Broadway actor Stark Sands. Isaac brings conviction to trad tunes performed solo or accompanied by Marcus

I-5 Exit 236 • theskagit.com • 877-275-2448 SVH

Must be 21 or older with valid photo ID.

n Dan DeLuca, Philadelphia Inquirer

‘The Music of ‘Nashville,’ Season 2, Vol. 1 Various artists

Midway through its second season, “Nashville,” the ABC melodrama about country stars and hopefuls, continues to get the music right. That’s no surprise, since Buddy Miller, a great Americana artist himself, is in charge of it, after sharing duties in the first season with T Bone Burnett. And once again, he has top writers and players at his disposal to support the singing actors, who are no slouches themselves. That means even the more radio-friendly material, like the swaggering country rock of “What If I Was Willing,” sung by Chris Carmack, and Hayden Panettiere’s “Trouble Is,” sound better than a lot of the stuff coming out of Music Row. Jonathan Jackson’s ballad “How You Learn to Live Alone,” is on the fey side, but everything else has plenty of rootsy character, from the sisterly harmonies of Lennon and Maisy on “A Life That’s Good” to the bluesy bite of Connie Britton and Will Chase’s “Ball and Chain” and Charles Esten’s “Playin’ Tricks.” Those and more help make this the strongest “Nashville” collection yet. n Nick Cristiano, Philadelphia Inquirer

Watch the games on the BIg screen!

Football sunday 12/29

EntErtainmEnt FrIday 12/27

Seahawks vs. Rams

DJ Clint Westwood

GamE timE SpEcialS

saturday 12/28

1:25 pm Owned by Upper Skagit Indian Tribe

Mumford or the Punch Brothers. When he’s not on the mike, the soundtrack is a mishmash, with the too-cute novelty tune “Please Mr. Kennedy” not worthy of repeat listenings, and the odd cut by Bob Dylan and Dave Van Ronk, on whom Davis is partially based, adding to the jumble.

Food and drink specials available in the lounge and at the bar top from Kick-off ‘til end of the Game!

Classic & Contemporary Dance 9 pm – 1 am

Big Dog Revue

Seven-Piece R&B Show/Horn Band 9 pm – 1 am

E10 Thursday, December 26, 2013

TUNING UP Playing at area venues December 27-January 2

ADVENTURES IN BARRYWOOD By BARRY KOLTNOW The Orange County Register

There are no apologies in Hollywood. There are no excuses in Hollywood. And there certainly are no refunds in Hollywood. They charge you the same ticket price for a bad movie as they do for a good movie. If the movie is a real stinker, there are no apologies from the filmmakers, and there are no offers of refunds or discounts from the studios. And the theater owners are their partners in crime. That overpriced tub of popcorn and that giant box of Goobers will cost you the same, whether it’s an Oscar winner or a studio dump job in late August. Yes, life is not fair, but Hollywood takes the concept to another level. There is little we can do, except release our annual list of the worst movies of the year. And when I say “worst,” I understand that this is a judgment call. I may hate something that you love, and vice versa. Perhaps “worst” is the wrong word. Maybe the word should be “disappointing.” I don’t know about you but I hope that every movie I am going to see will be “The Godfather.” I don’t mean that literally, but at least aspire to the quality of “The Godfather.” Of course, if it’s a comedy, I hope it’s nothing like “The Godfather.” But there are very few “Godfathers” being put out by Hollywood these days, and most films are not only a waste of our money, but a waste of our precious time. For stealing two hours of our lives, certain movies deserve to be on this list. What recourse do we

Thursday, December 26, 2013 E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

there was agonizing. 6. “The Hangover Part III” — Hey, we got drunk in Vegas. Then we got Paramount Pictures via AP drunk in Bangkok. Since we’re only doing this one for the money, let’s just go get drunk. The only good news is that this ends the franchise. 7. “Identity Thief” — I occasionally enjoy it when actors or actresses leave their comfort zone to try to play a character that is unlike anything they’ve ever played. Melissa McCarthy is hot right now, due to her CBS show “Mike & Molly,” and to her scene-stealing performance in “Bridesmaids.” Her character in this alleged comedy was so despicable and unlikable that by the time of her redemption (second-rate movies always include a redemption scene for an annoying character), it was too late. The cause was lost. 8. “After Earth” — You’ve heard of “Bring your child to work” day? Well, Will Smith interpreted that as “Bring your son to star in a $130 million movie” day. By the way, how long has it been since we liked an M. Night Shyamalan movie? 9. “We’re the Millers” ‘The Lone Ranger’ Disney Enterprises, Inc. — Some people thought and Jerry Bruckheimer Inc. that watching Jennifer ‘August: Osage County’ Aniston play a stripper The Weinstein Company via AP 4. “The Internship” — was worth every penny Everybody loved “Wedof the ticket price. Those have but to publicly mock ding Crashers,” and some but there apparently was ances as Burgundy were people need more friends. these people? clever studio executives a very good reason why hysterical, and when the We were hoping for some So, it is with a small they didn’t come up with a movie’s promotion is better assumed that all you had to better writing, and perhaps measure of pleasure and sequel for 10 years. than the movie, you’ve got do was put Owen Wilson a lead character (played by disdain that I present the and Vince Vaughn together Jason Sudeikis) who might There obviously was no a problem. It’s like when 10 most disappointing mov- reason for making a sequel, the trailer is better than the in a movie again, and the be easier to root for than a ies of 2013: money would flow. Well, except money. However, movie. Stay classy, Ron. small-time drug dealer who 1. “Anchorman 2: The we would like to salute the 2. “Grown Ups 2” — No the money didn’t flow. aspires to be a big-time Legend Continues” — best movie marketing cam- one steals your money like Apparently, you need a drug smuggler. Frankly, I don’t care how good script, too. paign in history. No one Adam Sandler. 10. “August: Osage much money this sequel 5. “The Lone Ranger” — County” — We get it; can accuse Paramount and 3. “R.I.P.D.” — What makes. I don’t care if There is a thrilling moment Meryl Streep’s character Ron Burgundy (Will’s alter were they thinking? This some critics actually like near the end of the movie ego) of failing to promote idea should have been is not very nice. Director it. I have always admired when the William Tell this film. sent to the Rest In Peace John Wells likes endings so Will Ferrell and his writOverture kicks the movie And that was part of the Department before it was much that he included five ing partner Adam McKay, problem. Will’s appearinto another gear. Getting in this overly long film. made into a movie.

‘Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues’

Celebrating mediocrity: These flicks did not measure up in 2013

FRIDAY.27

SATURDAY.28

Holiday Jam: Wayne Hayton, Johnny Bulldog, Holmes Shea Band, Kerry and the Keepers, PWG; 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5 and suggested donation to benefit Neighbors in Need Food Bank. 360-445-3000.

LANE FERNANDO 9 p.m. to midnight, Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

Sovereign: 9 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

SATURDAY.28 FORD GIESBRECHT 7:30 p.m., Washington Sips, 608 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1037.

Joe Argo: 9 p.m. to midnight, Varsity Inn, 112 N. Cherry St., Burlington. No cover. 360-755-0165. Solo Piano Night: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-766-6266. Jim Cull: 7 to 10 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. 360-848-8882. Rich Rorex: 7:30 p.m., Washington Sips, 608 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1037. The Fenderbenders: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

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

Jack Mattingly and Barefeet: 6:30 p.m., Birdsview Brewing Company, 38302 State Route 20, Concrete. 360-826-3406.

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.

SUNDAY.29 Bow Diddlers: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360766-6266.

Big Dog Revue: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448.

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.

Lane Fernando: 9 p.m. to midnight, Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360766-6330.

TUESDAY.31 Gary B’s Church of Blues: 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

Ben and Mia Starner: 6 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. No cover. 360-4453000.

Rock and blues jam with CC Adams: 5 to 9 p.m., The Station House, 315 Morris St., La Conner. 360-466-4488.

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

Eagle Teeth, Minor Plains, Otto, Animal Inside: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

THURSDAY.2 New Year’s Eve Party: The Afrodisiacs, The Spazmatics and Mr. Pink; 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., Pacific Showroom, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $90. 877-2752448.

New Year’s Eve Gala Dance and Party: Mark Dufresne Band, Wayne Hayon & Slim Fat Lips; 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $25 cover. Dinner buffet 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.: $25 (reservations required: 360-445-3000.

New Year’s Eve Benefit Bash: Angie and the Car Wrecks, More America, Trainwreck and Hard Money Saints; 7:30 p.m., former Cyndy’s Broiler, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10. Alcoholic beverages and $10 buffet.

Scary Monster & The Super Creeps (David Bowie tribute band): 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $10. 360-778-1067.

The Silver City Band: 2 to 5 p.m., Jansen Art Center Firehall Cafe, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-3543600.

Steve Rudy: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jansen Art Center Piano Lounge, 321 Front St., Lynden. No cover. 360-3543600.