360 December 5 2013 full by Skagit Publishing

BJ Thomas, Mark DuFresne and Scott Cossu headline a busy music weekend Tuning Up, Page E11 Skagit Valley Herald Thursday December 5, 2013

Holiday Events See what holiday events are coming up in the area PAGE 3

Reviews

Music: Britney Spears, Garth Brooks Video Games: ‘Tearaway’ PAGES 6-7

Movie Review Despair proves amusing in Coen brothers’ ‘Llewyn’ PAGE 16

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, December 5, 2013

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK TV shows are the best bets in this week’s DVD releases. “The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones”: In a world where there is no “Twilight,” “Underworld,” “Stargate” or “Star Wars,” the film would be an interesting look at a magical universe where turmoil is equally divided between a war with demons and the battle for young love. But those films do exist, and that leaves “City of Bones” feeling mundane. Director Harald Zwart, the man who gave us the abomination of “Pink Panther 2,” shows a lack of talent in blending the big action with emotion. These elements should support each other, but they feel like they are from two different scripts. Even the attempts to add a touch of humor — like suggesting a werewolf would feel more comfortable hanging his head out of a car window — don’t come across as connected to the rest of the film. The film should please fans of the books. Others should consider one of the other DVD picks that make up this genre. “Hot in Cleveland: Season Four”: Valerie Bertinelli, Jane Leeves, Wendie Malick and Betty White continue to be the funniest comedy ensemble working in TV — network or cable. They show those skills in a series of comedic adventures from this season that includes a work love triangle, landing major movie roles or preparing for a secret wedding. The DVD set features the live episode and the “Mary Tyler Moore” reunion that brought White back together with Valerie Harper, Cloris Lechman and Georgia Engel. “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman”: It’s been 37 years since this syndicate series debuted and the comedy remains as crisp and funny as ever. That’s because of the wickedly funny writing used to poke fun at the soap opera world through the often foggy eyes of Mary Hartman (Louise Lasser). This is a series that can go from a police investigation about a flasher to Hartman falling into a funk about how her floors don’t seem to have the proper shine. This send up of daytime television from Norman Lear works on every level because of the strong supporting cast of Mary Kay Place, Greg Mullavey, Debralee Scott and Dody Goodman. Included in the DVD set are all 325 episodes. “The Smurfs 2”: Gargamel creates troublesome Smurf-like creatures called the Naughties. “Drinking Buddies”: Olivia Wilde and Anna Kendrick star.

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

Upcoming movie releases Following is a partial schedule of coming movies on DVD. Release dates are subject to change: DEC. 10 Despicable Me 2 - Universal Fast & Furious 6 - Universal The Hunt - Magnolia

Travel / Page 12

DEC. 17 The Family - Fox The Lone Ranger — Disney Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters - Fox Prisoners — Warner 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 n McClatchy-Tribune News Service

“Simpsons: Season 16”: Animated adventures of the wildest family in Springfield. “The Wolverine”: Hugh Jackman reprises his role as the blade-fisted hero. “Transformers Prime: Season Three — Beast Hunters”: Contains all 13 episodes of the animated adventure series. “All the Boys Love Mandy Lane”: Amber Heard stars. “Galactic Adventures: 3D Sun / Mars 3D”: Double feature that looks at the universe beyond Earth. “Boston Red Sox 2013 World Series Collector’s Edition”: Includes all six games from the 2013 World Series and the pennant-clincher, ALCS Game 6. “The Perfect Wedding”: Marriage plans get complicated. Eric Aragon stars. “Casting Me”: Comedy from South Africa. “Doctor Who — The Doctors Revisted: Ninth-Eleventh”: Features Christopher Eccleston, David Tennant and Matt Smith as the Doctor. “A Christmas Tree Miracle”: A family finds the Christmas spirit they lost. “Argo Extended Edition”: Includes nine minutes of footage that delves deeper into CIA specialist Tony Mendez’s personal life. “Duck Dynasty: Seasons 1-3”: Includes the first three seasons of the series. “Things Never Said”: Love story centered on the trials and tribulations of life.

Florida attraction zips visitors over alligators

Inside

SUBMISSIONS Email features@skagitpublishing.com vrichardson@skagitpublishing. com (recreation items) Phone 360-416-2135 Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274

Holiday Events................................ 3 Music, Game Reviews..................6-7 Get Involved.................................8-9 On Stage........................................ 10 Tuning Up..................................... 11 At the Lincoln Theatre.................. 15 Movie Review................................ 16 Movie Listings............................... 17 Movie 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 5, 2013 - E3

COMMUNITY If you haven’t yet noticed, the 2013 holiday season is in full swing. Numerous events are held from now until the New Year; below are several options for this week.

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 tree. General admission: $10-$15. Paywhat-you-can nights are offered Dec. 5, 12 and 29. Season passes are available. Theater events are extra. Call 800-2286724 or visit warmbeachlights.com.

VISIT HOLIDAY ATTRACTIONS: Take advantage of several escorted trips to holiday attractions around Puget Sound: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation offers day trips departing from and returning to Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. Ages 12 and older, adult supervision required for ages 18 and younger. For information or to register, call 360-336-6215. Next up: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Join Skagit County Senior Centers for a day trip to historic Burnaby Village and Van Dusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights from noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, departing from and returning to local senior centers. Enjoy the wonderful elements of a Heritage Christmas at British Columbia’s Historic Burnaby Village — stroll the wide streets, take in the sights, sounds and smells of the olden days and relive old-fashioned holiday traditions. Next, visit Van Dusen Botanical Garden, transformed into a winter wonderland complete with elves, candy canes, dancing lights, choreographed light shows, strolling carolers and more. Bring money for a late lunch/ early dinner and purchases. Wear warm, weather appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Note: Valid passport, DMV enhanced driver’s license or NEXUS card required to cross the border. $69. For information, call the Anacortes Senior Center at 360-293-7473 or sign up at your local senior center. TREE LIGHTING, ARRIVAL OF SANTA: Santa Claus will arrive to light the tree at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, at Alpha Park on Fairhaven Avenue, Burlington. Coffee, cocoa and treats will follow at the Visitor Information Center, 520 E. Fairhaven Ave. 360-757-0994. HAPPY (& HEALTHY) HOLIDAY TRUFFLES: with Joan Miller: 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Miller, author of “A Sweet Life Without Sugar: Gluten-free & Sugar-free Artisan Recipes,” will demonstrate how to make holiday confections filled with nutrition and healthy sugar substitutes. $18 advance, $20 at the door. 360-464-2229 or anacortes

SANTA’S WORKSHOP: The Skagit Valley Family YMCA will host Santa’s Workshop Family Night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at 215 E. Fulton St., Mount Vernon. Kids and parents can make holiday decorations, decorate cookies, take photos with Santa and more. $5 per child; bring a donation of nonperishable food and receive a $1 discount. Volunteers are also needed to help set up, clean up or participate in the event. Call 360-336-9622 or email j.kerkvliet@skagitymca.org for more information. TREE LIGHTING: Celebrate the community Christmas tree lighting from 6 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce, 819 Commercial Ave. The town crier and students from Anacortes High School, Fidalgo and Island View schools will perform. Free pictures with Santa and hot cocoa and cookies from the American Red Cross. Free. 360-293-7911.

Holiday events in the area centerforhappiness.org. “HAM FOR THE HOLIDAYS: Close Encounters of the Pork Rind”: Lisa Koch and Peggy Platt present their 13th holiday comedy extravaganza Dec. 5-22, 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 start at

$28 plus applicable fees. Discounts are available for students and seniors. 206292-7676 or acttheatre.org. 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. Thursdays through Sundays, Dec. 5-8 and Dec. 12-15, and daily Dec. 18-23 and Dec. 26-29 at Warm Beach Camp, 20800

HOLIDAY ARTWALK: The Anacortes Chamber of Commerce Holiday Artwalk will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, in downtown Anacortes. Participating merchants will display the work of local artists, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, music, treats and more. 360-293-6938. SWING INTO THE HOLIDAYS: The Economic Development Association of Skagit (EDASC) will host a dinner, dance and auction at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at Swinomish Lodge, 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes. Dress in your festive holiday attire and enjoy a social hour with special entertainment beginning at 6 p.m., followed by an elegant catered dinner, lively auction bidding, entertainment and dancing. $75, $575 table of eight. 360-336-6114 or skagit.org. See EVENTS, Page E5

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, December 5, 2013

MOVIES

Casey Affleck reveals another facet of his talent By RENE RODRIGUEZ The Miami Herald

MIAMI — Halfway through “Out of the Furnace” comes a scene in which Rodney (Casey Affleck) goes to visit his older brother Russell (Christian Bale), who is serving a prison sentence for vehicular manslaughter. Rodney has just returned from his fourth tour of duty in Iraq; the two men haven’t seen each other in years. When Russell asks him how things went overseas, Rodney just stares at his brother, his eyes suddenly veiled and dark and haunted. Some things are just too painful to talk about. The scene is subtle and deceptively simple — Rodney’s experiences in Iraq will end up affecting the rest of his life — and Affleck’s performance in that small throwaway moment is remarkable, using stillness and silence and a blank expression to convey his character’s great inner pain and the irreparable scars he must bear. The performance is even more impressive when you meet Affleck, 38, who is funny and jovial and playful and somewhat of a prankster — all the things his character is not. During a recent visit to Miami to promote “Out of the Furnace,” which opens Friday, Affleck at first dismisses praise for that scene with a joke (“They just used mascara to darken my eyes and make me look tortured!”), but then reveals in earnest what was going through his head at the time of filming. “I’m glad people pick up on those kinds of details, because they are little things, but they’re so important,” he says. “I talked to a lot of veterans who were nice enough to share their stories and insights with me. A lot of them had similar stories — not only in terms of their combat experiences but also how it can be to come back after going through that ordeal. Even if you

Christian Bale (left) and Casey have a supportive family and money and a job and good treatment and your limbs intact and no terrible injuries, it still can be very hard to readjust. “When you spend several years living in an incredibly stressful environment, you go through intense trauma and it changes your brain chemistry. You’re essentially a different person. You have all these memories and all these anxieties. You can be at the grocery story or working at a restaurant and you’re trying to behave in the same way people who haven’t been in combat do, and it’s super-hard. You can’t just erase some of the terrible things you see during war. Those were the things I thought about during that scene.

such as “Tower Heist,” “American Pie 2” and the “Ocean’s Eleven” trilogy (“Those movies aren’t exactly ensembles, though,” he jokes. “They are mostly Brad Pitt and George Clooney talking in front of the camera and everybody else is somewhere in the background, pretending to do something.”) That all changed in 2007, with the one-two punch of “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford,” which earned him a Best Supporting Actor nomination as the man who famously shot the legendary outlaw in the back of the head, and “Gone Baby Gone,” his big brother Ben’s directorial debut, in which he played a street-smart detective investigating the disappearance of a little girl. Affleck’s subsequent choices of leading roles — the sadistic sheriff in the brutal “The Killer Inside Me,” the prison fugitive in the lyrical “Ain’t Them Bodies Saints” and now the war veteran who becomes embroiled in an underground fighting ring in “Out of the Furnace” — all point to an actor seeking smaller Kerry Hayes / Relativity Media via AP projects that allow him the Affleck star in “Out of the Furnace.” opportunity to play a specific kind of role. It was really important that I Whatever its box office fate, “The idea behind my chardepicted the post-war mindset though, “Out of the Furnace” acter in ‘The Killer Inside Me’ of a veteran as accurately as I will further elevate Affleck’s sta- was to play someone who could could.” tus as a diverse and skilled actor, seem your friendly neighbor “Out of the Furnace,” which something he’s been demonnext door — the last person you was directed by Scott Cooper strating ever since his first starwould ever suspect of murder(whose previous film “Crazy ring role in 2002’s “Gerry,” Gus ing people. He’s someone who is Heart” earned Jeff Bridges a Van Sant’s quasi-experimental very different on the inside than Best Actor Oscar), is the kind of film in which Affleck and Matt he is on the outside. In a way, intimate, character-driven drama Damon got lost walking in the that’s the kind of character that that attracts a lot of top-tier desert. I’m drawn to — not people who talents (Woody Harrelson, WilThe movie started out as an do horrible things, but people lem Dafoe, Zoe Saldana, Sam absurdist comedy that evolved who feel one way on the inside Shepard and Forest Whitaker into a rigorous, existential tale but appear differently on the round out the cast). with an unexpectedly bleak outside. That’s an interesting The grim nature of the tale resolution. conflict for an actor to explore. — Rodney gets involved in With his mischievous person- That’s true of Rodney in ‘Out an underground fighting ring, ality, physical abilities and ganof the Furnace,’ too. He has all ignoring Russell’s pleas to join gly, loose-limbed body, Affleck these experiences from war that him at a job at a steel mill — has a natural flair for comedy he can’t talk about and he feels doesn’t bode well for the film’s and had been previously cast an enormous amount of guilt, chances at the multiplex during most often as goofballs: He’s but he goes about resolving it in the holiday season. been part of ensemble comedies all the wrong ways.”

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 5, 2013 - E5

COMMUNITY

w Events

ley Academy of Dance presents its 24th annual performance of this classic Christmas story Friday through Sunday, Dec. 6-8, at McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Continued from Page E3 Mount Vernon. $20-$37. 360-416-7727, ext. NORTH WHIDBEY FESTIVAL OF TREES: 2, or mcintyrehall.org. 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge, 155 Ernst St. The black-tie “SCROOGE: The Musical”: Enjoy a gala includes dinner, silent and live aucghostly holiday tale based on Charles tions of professionally decorated trees and Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” Dec. 6-22, other items, music and dancing. $85. Proat Seattle Musical Theatre, 7400 Sand ceeds benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters Point Way, Seattle. $30-$40. 800-838-3006 of Island County. 360-279-0644 or bbbsisor seattlemusicaltheatre.org. landcounty.org. n Festival of Trees public viewing: ST. NICHOLAS MASS: The mass will be Enjoy a walk through the forest of intriheld at 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at St. Mary cately decorated trees from 1 to 4 p.m. Catholic Church, 4001 St. Mary’s Drive, Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Oak Harbor Elks Anacortes. Following the mass, a procesLodge, 155 Ernst St. Admission by donasion will carry the St. Nicholas icon to the tion to benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters Seafarer’s Monument for the laying of a of Island County. wreath and roses for the Lady of the Sea. After a short program, the Icon will be CELEBRATE THE SEASON: Anacortes returned to its shrine at the Croatian CulSchools Foundation will host “Celebrate tural Center, 801 Fifth St., where particithe Season,” a holiday fundraiser on Fripants can enjoy Croatian pastries, Turkish day and Saturday, Dec. 6-7, at the Port coffee, hot mulled drinks and music. 360of Anacortes’ Event Center on First and 299-2525 or croatianculturalcenter.com. Commercial Ave. Each day offers a special highlight — a gingerbread decorating conPANCAKES WITH SANTA: Enjoy a test (adults at 11 a.m., students at 3 p.m.) pancake breakfast with Santa from 8 to on Friday and the Lion’s Holiday Parade 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Anacortes at noon on Saturday. Includes photos with Senior Activity Center, 1701 22nd St., Santa, crafts, games and refreshments. The Anacortes. Enjoy photos with Santa, crafts “Dream It Dinner” will be held at 5:30 and live entertainment. $6. 360-293-1918 or p.m. Saturday, along with an auction and cityofanacortes.org. live music. Tickets: $5 per person or $20 per family for the public events, $35 per BREAKFAST WITH SANTA: Enjoy panperson for the dinner fundraiser. Proceeds cakes and ham and holiday music from benefit science, technology, engineer8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at Hillcrest ing and math programs of the Anacortes Park Lodge, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount VerSchool District. For information, call non. Bring your camera for photos with 360-293-3743 or email vstowe@conrarSanta. $5. 360-336-6215. dydesign.com. CHILDREN’S SHOPPING EXTRAVACHORAL CONCERTS: Whidbey ComGANZA: 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. munity Chorus will present “Sing Noel,” 7, in the Skylight Room at Hillcrest Park its annual Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Lodge, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. Friday, Dec. 6, and 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, Kids can shop for holiday gifts for everyat First United Methodist Church, 1050 SE one in the family — all priced at $5 or less. Ireland St., Oak Harbor. Whidbey’s largest Free admission. 360-336-6215. chorus, under the direction of conductor Chet Hansen, will sing sacred to secular BREAKFAST WITH SANTA: Rotary Club Christmas favorites, including “I Heard the of La Conner will host the 10th annual Bells on Christmas Day,” “Silent Night,” Breakfast with Santa from 8:30 to 11 a.m. “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and Saturday, Dec. 7, at Maple Hall, 104 Commore. Friday’s concert will include a permercial Ave., La Conner. Join Santa for formance by Oak Harbor High School’s pancakes and photos. $6. award-winning choral students and director Darren McCoy. Admission is free, but TEDDY BEAR BREAKFAST: Seatings at donations will be accepted. Limited seat9 and 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the ing. For information, contact Kay at 360Oak Harbor Elks Lodge, 155 Ernst St. 678-4148 or visit whidbeycommchorus.org. Enjoy a buffet breakfast and child-friendly holiday show. $10 ages 13 and older, $6 “THE NUTCRACKER”: Skagit Valages 12 and younger. Proceeds benefit the

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Island County . year’s theme is “The Lights of Christmas.” 360-279-0644 or bbbsislandcounty.org. 360-770-5640 or swinomishyachtclub.org. CHRISTMAS PARADE: The Anacortes Lions Club’s annual Christmas Parade will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, along Commercial Avenue to Causland Memorial Park in Anacortes. Line-up begins at 10 a.m. anacortes.org.

CHRISTMAS IN CONCRETE: Donations of toys or cash will help make an old-fashioned Christmas in Concrete bigger and better. The Concrete Christmas Parade will start at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, down Main Street. Afterward, Santa will talk to kids at the Concrete Center and OPEN HOUSE: The Croatian Cultural pass out toys. A live Nativity scene, along Center, 801 Fifth St., Anacortes, will host with music, singing, roasting chestnuts and an Open House after the Anacortes other activities, will enhance the seasonal Christmas Parade, from noon to 3 p.m. Sat- spirit that day and on successive Saturdays, urday, Dec. 7. Enjoy Croatian music and Dec. 14 and 21. Contact Gladys, 360-826shop for a variety of traditional Croatian 4848 or gsilrus@frontier.com. food, pastries and more. 360-299-2525 or croatianculturalcenter.com. SEDRO-WHOOLLEYVILLE’S MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS: The tree lighting will get AN OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS: The underway at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the 14th annual event will take place from 10 intersection of Metcalf and Woodworth a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at Floyd streets. The Cascade Middle School Choir Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd will encircle the tree to sing some famous Ave. NW, Stanwood. Kids are invited to carols. One lucky child, the winner of a get free photos with Santa, lots of gooddrawing at local businesses, will throw the ies, crafts, music, museum tours and more. switch lighting up the Christmas tree. The Free. 360-629-0562. parade with Grand Marshall Greg Reed will begin immediately after the tree is lit. HOLIDAY TRAIN RIDE: Join Santa Claus Prizes will be awarded for the best use of aboard the Lake Whatcom Railway’s lights in the parade. The lighted vehicle Christmas train at 9:30 a.m., noon and 2:30 that best utilizes the theme will win a p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 7, 14 and 21, leavspecial award. Entry forms are available ing from Wickersham, 10 miles north of online, sedro-woolley.com. Pony and train Sedro-Woolley on Highway 9. Meet Santa rides for kids, and horse-drawn trolley and his elf, sing Christmas carols and enjoy rides will be offered from 3 to 5 p.m. A music by Ben the banjo player. $25 ages 18 Seuss-y fashion show with prizes for the and older, $12.50 ages 2 to 17, free for ages Whoo-lliest Sedro-Whoollian of all will be 1 and younger. Tickets must be purchased held at 4 p.m. Kids can visit with Santa and in advance by mail from Lake Whatcom get their pictures taken from 6 to 7 p.m. at Railway, P.O. Box 91, Acme, WA 98220. the Eagles hall, 1000 Metcalf St. 360-855When ordering tickets, give a second and 1841 or sedro-woolley.com. third choice of date and time, as the train rides often sell out. 360-595-2218 or lakeFREE HOLIDAY CONCERT: Navy Band whatcomrailway.com. Northwest will present the Home for the Holidays concert at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. TREE LIGHTING, SANTA ARRIVES: 7, in the Oak Harbor High School PerEnjoy holiday music, caroling and the forming Arts Center, 1 Wildcat Way, Oak arrival of Santa Claus by antique fire truck Harbor. A U.S. Marine Corps representato light the tree beginning at 4 p.m. Satur- tive will accept donations for Toys for Tots. day, Dec. 7, at Gilkey Square in La Conner. Free. 360-257-2286. Enjoy a performance by the La Conner High School Choir before Santa arrives. BELLINGHAM TREE LIGHTING: The Hot cider and decorated cookies provided Hotel Bellwether’s second annual Holiday by the La Conner High School culinary Tree Lighting will take place from 4 to 6 class will follow the festivities. Free. 360p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at One Bellwether 466-4778. Way, Bellingham. Check out the unveiling of holiday trees decorated by local BellLIGHTED BOAT PARADE: The Swiningham businesses, listen to carolers, take omish Yacht Club’s annual Lighted Boat photos with Santa and enjoy complimenParade will get under way around 6 p.m. tary hot cider. Non-perishable food donaSaturday, Dec. 7, departing from the north tions will be accepted to benefit the Bellbasin of the Port of Skagit marina in La ingham Food Bank. The decorated trees Conner, turning south along the waterwill remain on display through December. front and ending up in Shelter Bay. This 360-392-3179 or hotelbellwether.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, December 5, 2013

REVIEWS MUSIC CDS Compiled from news services

Britney Spears “Britney Jean”

You want to release a good album? You better work harder, chick. A lot harder. Britney Spears’ latest release, “Britney Jean,” is a total letdown. It’s not that we expect Adele-styled songs from Spears — or even Rihanna-like ones — but Spears was once a pop

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powerhouse who made music considered a mustlisten, from “Toxic” to “I’m a Slave 4 U.” Listening to this album makes you nostalgic for those days — nothing on “Britney Jean” would be contenders for any future greatest hits package. The 10-track set lacks so many things: oomph, swag, sex appeal, as well as addictive, memorable hooks. It’s almost like Spears isn’t even present. Tracks like “It Should Be Easy” and “Till It’s Gone” are techno misses — and messes — even though David Guetta helmed both songs. The light ballad and second single, “Perfume,” is laughable, with Spears warbling: “And while I wait, I put on my perfume, yeah I want it all over you, I’m gonna mark my territory.” It sounds more like a commercial than an actual song (it should be noted that Spears has released a dozen perfumes, including two this year). “Perfume” was cowritten by Sia, the ultra-talented singer who has found success writing Rihanna’s “Diamonds” and tunes for Christina Aguilera, Katy Perry and Eminem. Another star, will.i.am, is the executive producer of Spears’ eighth album. Are they purposely giving her C- and D-level material? While “Britney Jean” has its upbeat moments, the album is one of Spears’ slowest. The singer said some songs draw from her recent breakup, but she doesn’t capture emotion that will make you a believer with this batch of tracks. The album follows in the robotic fashion of 2011’s “Femme Fatale,” though that set had more flavor

and standout tracks. Aside from the sexually charged, T.I.-assisted “Tik Tik Boom” and the lead single, “Work B——,” Spears isn’t putting in any real work. n Mesfin Fekadu, Associated Press

Boston

“Life, Love & Hope” Give Tom Scholz credit for knowing one of the core tenets of business success: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. On Boston’s first album in 11 years, and the first since the tragic death of legendary vocalist Brad Delp in 2007, the band sticks with its tried-andtrue sound, one that has come to nearly define the classic rock genre. From the first time the world heard “More Than a Feeling” in the 1970s, Boston burned its way into rock’s DNA with an identifiable sound: layer upon layer of angry guitars, harmonic solos and angelic vocals backing Delp, who could hit notes only dogs could hear. There’s an unreleased Delp track here, “Sail Away,” about the government’s response to Hurricane Katrina, and it’s the only one of the three Delp tracks on this album that’s new. Two others — “Someone” and “Didn’t Mean

to Fall in Love” appeared on the band’s “Corporate America” album, but Scholz was never really happy with them and has rebuilt them from top to bottom while keeping the original Delp vocals. Other songs don’t fare as well, including “If You Were in Love” with Kimberley Dahme’s nothingspecial vocals. “Heaven on Earth,” with David Victor singing lead could be a hit single — that is, if all the Boston fans who were “Smokin’” in the ‘70s remain loyal to a group who helped define what rock ‘n’ roll sounded like for many years. n Wayne Parry, Associated Press

songs steeped in contemporary Nashville clichés. The high alcohol content “Tall Glass Of Something” makes rhymes out of names of popular cocktails and sugary shooters — wasting a distinctively fun arrangement by producer Joey Moi. Similarly, “1972” fills its lyrics with names of classic rock acts and hit songs from 40 years ago. Owen shows he can find songs that occasionally step away from the bar: He instills desperation and tension into “One Little Kiss (Never Killed Nobody)” and “Drivin’ All Night.” Unlike the party tunes, these songs include consequences to his actions — and suggest Owen might distinguish himself by going in a different direction than most of his peers. n Michael McCall, Associated Press

Jake Owen

“Days Of Gold” Since his first album in 2006, Jake Owens has struggled to separate himself from the deluge of good-time male rockers to emerge in country music in recent years. His fourth album, “Days Of Gold,” continues his streak of inconsistency, blending effective slice-of-life songs with generic tunes about partying and drinking. As a vocalist, Owen displays more nuance and power than in the past. The problem is that some of his best performances come on

Garth Brooks

“Blame It All On My Roots”

ble disc set and two DVDs present a recorded concert in Las Vegas and most of his old music videos. The covers lean heavy on songs nearly every listener will know, giving it a Garthdoes-karaoke feel. “Heard It Through The Grapevine,” ‘’Sweet Home Alabama,” ‘’Great Balls Of Fire” and “Mrs. Robinson” are among the choices—songs still heard across America daily on the radio. There’s not a song among the 40 new cuts that presents a lesser-known song important to Brooks. As would be expected, Brooks connects best with the country covers: His version of Hank Williams’ “Jambalaya” and a duet with wife Trisha Yearwood on “After The Fire Is Gone” deserve airplay. On the other hand, the soul songs suffer from canned arrangements and from Brooks straining to bring Wilson Pickett-style growls and grunts to vocals that are otherwise serviceable, but never remarkable. The Nashville studio musicians do better at injecting life into classic rock and the songwriter albums, staying exceedingly faithful to the originals. Brooks’ fans, a faithful bunch, will enjoy hearing their hero sing these familiar songs. But will it bring him any new fans, expand his audience or help him find new glory more than a decade after his retirement? That will have to wait for his return to recording original material.

Garth Brooks offers fans a Christmas gift with a discount-priced box set that takes another look back rather than moving forward. “Blame It All On My Roots” is a massive, eightdisc package. Four CDs are devoted to the Oklahoman n Michael McCall, Associcovering classic songs from ated Press country, rock, soul and acoustic singer-songwriters. Two CDs are a previously available greatest-hits dou-

Please recycle this newspaper

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 5, 2013 - E7

REVIEWS VIDEO GAMES Chris Campbell, Scripps Howard News Service

‘Tearaway’

Platform: PlayStation Vita Genre: Driving Publisher: Sony ESRB Rating: E for Everyone Grade: 3 stars (out of 5 stars) The Vita was released back in 2012, but you get the feeling with "Tearaway" that developers are only now figuring out how to use the portable hardware to create unique games that aren’t always suited for the big TV in our living rooms. Because how many times can you play a game in which you are both the hero and a god at the same time? Yes, this is made possible by the unique story and mechanics behind “Tearaway.” This new game from the makers of “Little Big Planet” takes better advantage of the device's rear touchpad and tilt controls than most every other Vita game combined. You choose either a male or female hero (named Iota or Atoi, respectively) and guide him or her toward the final goal, an encounter with the game’s omnipotent presence. But guess what? You play the game’s god,

meaning you experience the game as the hero and the all-powerful presence at the same time. If that throws your brain for a loop, don’t despair; the game does a remarkable job incorporating you (as the god) into the game to create interesting meetups with you (as the hero). The visual style of the game looks like a Henri Matisse-inspired world of overlapping paper cutouts. These paper shapes form the landscape, the characters, anything and everything you interact with. The amount of fun to be had layering tons of colored paper shapes to create a visual look for your character can go to extreme lengths if you allow it, and you should because few games allow you this kind of leeway. Then you get to how the Vita is used throughout the game. Use the Vita’s camera and you can project your self-portrait (or any image you choose) into the game at various moments. Use the touchpad and break through the world (it is all made of paper, after all) to help your hero defeat enemies or create escape routes. Strip all of this away, and what you're really playing is a platforming game. Instead, this inventive gameplay and story allows for discovery from both perspectives: the hero trying to reach the finale and the all-seeing power trying to help him/her during the exploration.

The Mount Vernon Downtown Association presents these Holiday Happenings: Sunday, December 8, 2013 Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Christmas Parade, 5 pm. Tree Lighting Ceremony in Pine Square after the parade ends, around 6 pm. For more information, contact Cathy Stevens at (360) 336-3801, dep.mvda@gmail.com.

Free Holiday Movie “The Grinch” 3 pm at the Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. 1st St., Mount Vernon. For more information, call the Lincoln Theatre (360) 336-8955.

Also Happening! Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation Presents: Breakfast with Santa Sat. Dec. 7, $5 per person, 8-11 am, Hillcrest Lodge Children’s Shopping Extravaganza, Free admission, 8:30 am-2 pm, Hillcrest Park Skylight Room. Both events located at 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. For more information, call (360) 336-6215.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E8 - Thursday, December 5, 2013

GET INVOLVED ART

CALL TO ARTISTS: United General Hospital’s Fine Art Committee seeks uplifting, healing art by local artists for display in the hospital’s “Gallery Hall.” Artwork, in any medium, can be for sale, with a portion of the proceeds going toward the purchase of a permanent art collection. Contact Patsy Prutzman by email: patsyprutzman@gmail. com.

center.com. ART CLASSES: Sign up for a variety of art classes at A Guilded Gallery (formerly Gallery by the Bay), 8700 271st St. NW, Stanwood. To register, stop by the Stanwood Camano Art Guild’s cooperative gallery from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. 360-6292787 or stanwoodcamanoarts.com.

dragons. Learn about complementary and contrasting colors and the power of texture in art. $45. Register by Jan. 28: 360-755-9649.

determine the production lineup. For information or to sign up, call 360-679-2237 or email office@ whidbeyplayhouse.com.

AUDITIONS

CALL FOR THEATER VOLUNTEERS: The Whidbey Playhouse is seeking a team of behind-thescenes folks for its April 2014 production of the Tony-award winning musical “1776” that celebrates the birth of our nation. Assistance is needed for set-building and decorating, lighting, prop acquisitions and costuming. For information, contact the theater at 360- 6792237 or email director Gaye Litka at whidbey995@comcast.net.

“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 availFELT JEWELRY/GIFT-MAKING able for 23 men ages 15 to 70, and WORKSHOP: with Penny Berk: 1 two women, one age 30 to 50 and ART CLASSES to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at Tower one age 18 to 35. Come prepared ACRYLICS FOR BEGINNERS: Arts Studio, 5424 S. Shore Drive, to sing 16 bars of music; an accomWith Jennifer Bowman: 11 a.m. to a short walk from the ferry dock panist will be provided. Wear com4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 on Guemes Island. Learn to create fortable clothing as a light dance p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18-19, at the Ana- colorful, fashionable felt jewelry, will be required. Bring a resume cortes Center for Happiness, 619 including felt-bead necklaces, and recent photo. The play will Commercial Ave., Anacortes. $165, bracelets and pins. All ages welrun April 4-27. For information, plus optional $20 fee to borrow come. $55, includes all materials. call 360-679-2237 or visit whidbey Jennifer’s materials. 360-464-2229 360-293-8878 or towerartsstudio. playhouse.com. or anacortescenterfor com. happiness.org. PLAY SELECTION COMMITTEE: The Whidbey Playhouse, 730 “FIRE & ICE” (Anime style): ART CLASSES: Dakota Art SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor, with Max Elam: 4 to 6 p.m. TuesCenter offers a variety of art is looking for people who want to days, Feb. 4-26, 2014. Create four classes and workshops at 17873 help choose plays for its 2014-2015 artworks in the popular anime Highway 536, Mount Vernon. season. Committee members will style, with subject matter from 360-416-6556, ext. 5, or dakotaart- fantasy to sci-fi, and dinosaurs to read and evaluate scripts and help

SHELTER BAY CHORUS: Practices are held from 2:45 to 4:45 p.m. every Thursday at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse in La Conner. New members welcome. No need to be a Shelter Bay resident. 360-4663805. Sept. 5-Dec. 19 (no practice on Thanksgiving) WOMEN SING FOUR-PART HARMONY: Join the women of Harmony Northwest Chorus from

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7 to 9:30 p.m. every Monday at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave. Seeking women who like to sing a cappella music. All skill levels welcome.

DANCE

FOLK DANCING: Skagit-Anacortes Folkdancers meet at 7 p.m. most Tuesdays at the Bayview Civic Hall, 12615 C St., Mount Vernon. Learn to folk dance 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. All are welcome. No partners needed. For information, contact Gary or Ginny at 360-7666866. SCOTTISH DANCING: Bellingham Scottish Country Dancers meet from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the Fairhaven Library auditorium (upstairs), 1117 12th St., Bellingham. Wear comfortable clothes and soft-soled shoes without heels. $8 per class. For information, call Mary Anderson at 360933-1779 or visit bellinghamscd.org.

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, December 5, 2013 - E9

GET INVOLVED THURSDAY DANCE: Enjoy dancing to the music of the Skippers from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Thursdays at Hillcrest Lodge, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. For information, contact Doris at 360-588-8239. CREATIVE RHYTHM & MOVEMENT DANCE CLASS: For ages 3 to 6: 4 to 4:50 p.m. Mondays, Dec. 9-30, at Hillcrest Park Skylight Room, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. This ballet-based class will focus on coordination, skipping, leaping and jumping with continual change of music rhythms. $40-$42. Register with Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation, 360-3366215.

Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St., Mount Vernon. No fee, no partner needed. First three lessons are free. Wear comfortable shoes. For information, call Rosie at 360-424-4608.

ON STAGE

OPEN MIC: 9 p.m. to midnight, Wednesdays, at the First Street Cabaret & Speakeasy, 612 S. First St., Mount Vernon. Ages 21 and older. No cover. 360-3363012 or riverbelledinner theatre.com.

RECREATION

ANACORTES OPEN MIC: SEEKING MODEL TRAIN 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, at the ENTHUSIASTS: The WhatBrown Lantern Ale House, com Skagit Model Railroad 412 Commercial Ave., AnaClub is seeking new memcortes. 360-293-2544. bers for its On30 narrow gauge group in Bellingham. OPEN MIC: Jam Night: The club has constructed 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursa modular layout with 14 days, at the Conway Pub modules, each 5 feet by 30 & Eatery, 18611 Main St., inches, designed to be set Conway. 360-445-4733. up in a variety of configurations. The modules still need BURLINGTON OPEN MIC: some work and refinement, 7 to 10 p.m. Saturdays, at and the club is looking for North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. new members interested in Burlington Blvd., BurlingCLOG DANCING FOR completing the work and ton. Hosted by Daniel Burn- showing the layout at area BEGINNERS: Free lesson from 10 to 11 a.m., followed son. Rock, blues, funk, folk, train shows. Contact Karl ukelele, poetry and more. by regular clog dancing Kleeman at trainswas@ from 11 a.m. to noon Thurs- 360-707-COVE (2683) or gmail.com or Mike O’Brien days, at the Mount Vernon northcovecoffee.com. at sales@xtrains.com.

Celebrate the Holidays in La Conner

DECEMBER

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E10 Thursday, December 5, 2013

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area December 5-15

TUNING UP Playing at area venues December 5-15

THURSDAY.5

SATURDAY.14

THEATER “Mama Won’t Fly”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre. com.

THEATER “Mama Won’t Fly”: 8 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre. com.

FRIDAY.6

“Christmas Snapshots”: Holiday Musical Revue: 2:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $14. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

THEATER “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka”: Theater Arts Guild: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $10-$24. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

SATURDAY.7 THEATER “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka”: Theater Arts Guild: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $10-$24. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org. “Mama Won’t Fly”: 8 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre. com. MUSIC “Winter’s Rose”: Holiday Concert: Cantabile of Skagit Valley and reSound Northwest Chamber Ensemble: 7:30 p.m., United Methodist Church, 2201 H Ave., Anacortes. $15 suggested donation. 360466-1783 or cantabileofskagitvalley.org. “Under a Winter Moon”: Angeli women’s quartet: with vocalists Cynthia Akins Fletcher, Sharon Erickson, Carol Fitzgerald and Joni Keller, and accompanists Verna Morgan and Jan Ernst: 4 p.m., Oak Harbor Lutheran Church, 1253 NW Second Ave., Oak Harbor. Freewill donations will benefit Help House, the nonprofit north Whidbey Island Food Bank. 3606790-1561 or angeli_quartet@comcast.net.

SUNDAY.8 THEATER “Mama Won’t Fly”: 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre. com.

THURSDAY.5

THE PROVOCATEURS: CHRISTMAS CABARET/BURLESQUE/VARIETY SHOW 8 p.m., 1st Street Cabaret & Speakeasy, 612 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $7 cover. 360-3363012 or riverbelledinnertheatre.com.

TUESDAY.10 MUSIC Louis Hayes & his New York Quintet (jazz): 7 p.m., Sudden Valley Dance Barn, Gate 2, 8 Barnview Court, Bellingham. $20-25 Reservations: 360-671-1709.

THURSDAY.12 THEATER “Mama Won’t Fly”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre. com.

“A Star is Born” (musical dessert theater): 6:30 p.m., Christ The King Community Church, 2111 Riverside Drive, Mount Vernon. Free admission. Donations of new or gently used blankets will benefit area homeless. 360-848-5116.

SOLD OUT: BJ Thomas: 8 p.m., Pacific Showroom, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $24$28. 877-275-2448.

COMEDY Daniel Dugar, Lance Woods: hosted by Randall Ragsdale: 8 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. $10. 360-755-3956.

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

Solo Piano Night: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-766- Jim Cull: 7 to 10 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. 6266. 360-848-8882.

Mark DuFresne Band: 8 p.m., Conway Daddy Treetops, The Clouds: 8:30 p.m., Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $12. Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-445-3000. 360-766-6266. Scott Cossu: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Com- The Mark, Totalizer, So Adult, World mercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3956. Runner: 9:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360778-1067.

Scott Cossu Trio: 6 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, The White Buffalo, The Crying Shame: 9 p.m., The ShakeConway. $14. 360-445-3000. down, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $8-$10. 360-778-1067.

THEATER “Mama Won’t Fly”: 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre. com.

Bow Diddlers: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-766-6266.

WEDNESDAY.11

SATURDAY.14 BADD DOG BLUES SOCIETY 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

FRIDAY.13

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

THURSDAY.12

Stilly River Band: Knut Bell (country, folk, Americana): 7 p.m., Big 6 to 9 p.m., RockRock Café, 14779 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. No fish Grill, 320 cover. 360-424-7872. Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-5881720.

Janette West: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720.

FRIDAY.13 The Fenderbenders: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-4226411.

“Christmas Snapshots”: Holiday Musical Revue: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. $14. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Pine Hearts (bluegrass): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $7. 360-445-3000.

Cumulus, Candysound, Vervex: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

Solo Piano Night: 8:30 p.m., Edison Ann ‘N Dean: 7 to 10 p.m., Mount Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-766- Vernon Elks, 2120 Market St., Mount 6266. Vernon. 360-848-8882.

SATURDAY.14

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.

The Staxx Brothers, Black Beast Revival, Wildabeast: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5. 360-778-1067.

SUNDAY.8

SUNDAY.15

MUSIC “Hands Across The Sea”: North Cascades Concert Band, Anacortes High School Choir: 3 p.m., Brodniak Hall, Anacortes High School, 1600 20th St., Anacortes. $12, $10 seniors, $5 ages 17 and younger, $25 family. Tickets at Watermark Book Co. or at the door. nccband.org.

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

SATURDAY.7

VAUDEVILLE The Back Alley Cats: 8 p.m., 1st Street Cabaret & Speakeasy, 612 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $5 cover. 360-336-3012 or riverbelledinnertheatre.com.

FRIDAY.6

Dennis Jones Band: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ SOLD OUT: BJ Thomas: 8 p.m., Pacific Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000. Showroom, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $24Church of Misery, Saviours, Wizard Rifle: 10 p.m., The $28. 877-275-2448. Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $8-$10. 360-7781067. Goodson: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

“A Star is Born” (musical dessert theater): 2 p.m., Christ The King Community Church, 2111 Riverside Drive, Mount Vernon. Free admission. Donations of new or gently used blankets will benefit area homeless. 360-848-5116.

“Mama Won’t Fly”: 8 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre. com. MUSIC “Pleasures of Pan” (chamber music): with flutist Jeffrey Cohan, violist Roxanna Patterson and pianist Mark Salman: 7:30 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 415 S. 18th St., Mount Vernon. $15-$20 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger. 360-445-3164 or candlelightseattle.org.

Thursday, December 5, 2013 E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

SUNDAY.8 “WINTER’S ROSE”: HOLIDAY CONCERT: CANTABILE OF SKAGIT VALLEY AND RESOUND NORTHWEST CHAMBER ENSEMBLE: 3 p.m. , St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 415 S. 18th, Mt. Vernon. $15 suggested donation. 360-466-1783 or cantabileofskagitvalley.org.

TUESDAY. 10 LOUIS HAYES & HIS NEW YORK QUINTET (JAZZ) 7 p.m., Sudden Valley Dance Barn, Gate 2, 8 Barnview Court, Bellingham. $20-25 Reservations: 360-671-1709.

The Walrus: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Gold Digger: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411. 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No Cover. 877-275-2448. Mudflat Walkers, Sky Colony, Paul Benoit & The Dovetails: 6:30 p.m., Badd Dog Blues Society: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Conway. $10. 360-445-3000. 360-755-3956.

Country Lips: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-7666266. Wild Throne, Lozen, Gaytheist, The Family Curse: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7. 360778-1067.

SUNDAY.15 Caleb Klauder Country Band: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. 360-766-6266.