360 February 25. 2016

GINO VANNELLI IN CONCERT AT THE SKAGIT This Weekend, Page 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday February 25, 2016

TUNING UP

OUT & ABOUT The 51st Smelt Derby Family Festival set for Saturday in La Conner PAGES 4-5

Wayne Hayton performs at the Edison Inn on Friday PAGE 9

ON STAGE Bayshore Symphony celebrates Chinese New Year on Saturday night PAGE 8

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, February 25, 2016

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “Spotlight”: Reportdown by a flawed Upcoming concept, unappealing team with the ing characters and a Boston Globe uncovmovie releases soundtrack that lacks ers a conspiracy in the Following is a partial anything close to a Catholic Church dealing schedule of coming movmemorable tune. with priests who molest ies on DVD. Release “The Irish RM”: children. dates are subject to Peter Bowles portrays Not since the Oscarchange: a retired army officer winning “All the PresiMARCH 1 who becomes a resident’s Men” in 1976 has Creed dent Magistrate. a movie offered such a The Night Before “I Smile Back”: compelling, intriguing The Danish Girl Sarah Silverman stars and important look at Room in this film about how the world of journalism.

Legend a woman’s past is This examination of the affecting her current MARCH 8 Boston Globe’s investiThe Peanuts Movie life. gative team — known as In the Heart of the Sea “Transformers: Spotlight — uncovering Victor Frankenstein Rescue Bots”: First the massive cover-up is responders are back one of the best pictures MARCH 15 for more action. of the year.

Sisters “The Lion Guard: Alvin and the Chipmunks: “Secret In Their The Road Chip Return to the Roar”: Eyes,”: The Julia RobThe Big Short A new generation erts film is based on “El Concussion of animals begin secreto de sus ojos, “ Brooklyn preserving the Pride the film from Argentina Lands. that picked up the Oscar “Millennium/ for Best Foreign Film in R.O.T.O.R.”: Two cult classics from the 2010. Director/writer Billy Ray uses ‘80s are included. only the bare bones of the original “Chuggington: Delivery Dash at movie to craft his tale of motherly the Docks”: Skipper Stu and all the love, heartbreak and obsession.

Chuggers learn the importance of It’s rare that an adaptation of a patience. much heralded film equals the origi“Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! Season 1 nal. In this case, the upgrades add to Part 1”: Gang goes on a road trip to the tension and tenure of the produccelebrate graduation. tion. His changes also make the film “The Curse/Curse II”: Meteor and far more relatable. abandoned nuclear test site create “My All American”: Sports films problems. based on true stories come with an “Fargo: Year Two”: Latest crime inherent drama. It’s a combination of the herculean effort it takes to accom- case investigated in Sioux Falls, S.D. Kirsten Dunst stars. plish success in a given sport with the “Jesus of Nazareth: The Compure passion that explodes from the plete Miniseries”: Franco Zeffirelli’s human story. sweeping drama of the life of Jesus as To be a success, a director needs to told in the Gospels. take that natural drama and gingerly “Entertainment”: Comedian treks play it out. Director Angelo Pizzo through the California desert dreamcomes very close to committing a fuming of performing in Hollywood. ble, but the human story is so heart“Shaun the Sheep: Season 2”: tugging strong and Finn Wittrock’s Includes 40 episodes of sheepish fun. performance so good that those ele“Extraction”: Son of retired CIA ments fortify the natural drama. field operative must save his father.

“The Good Dinosaur: Production Bruce Willis stars. was halted early in the process of “In the Heart of the Sea”: Whaling making the film because it had some ship loses battle with giant sea creabig-sized problems. Peter Sohn was ture. Chris Hemsworth stars. brought in as the new director and he “Victor Frankenstein”: Victor started the process over two years ago.

Frankenstein and his protege share a The second attempt ends up so flat noble vision it would have been smart to scrap n Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee it and try a third time. It is weighed

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

Tuning Up / Page 9

Aaron Crawford plays Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon in Stanwood on Saturday

Inside

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

Out & About.....................................4-5 Get Involved.....................................6-7 On Stage, Tuning Up........................8-9 Hot Tickets ........................................ 11 At the Lincoln.................................... 13 Movies..........................................14-15 Cover photo by José Jorge Carreón

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

Thursday, February 25, 2016 - E3

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THIS WEEKENDin the area Gino Vannelli at the Skagit Singer, songwriter, musician and composer Gino Vannelli will perform at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 26-27, at the Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. Vannelli started touring with Stevie Wonder in the 1970s, which helped him to become a headlining artist selling out concert halls and arenas in Canada and the U.S. by age 23. Five of Vannelli’s six albums with A&M Records made the top 100 Billboard album charts. In late 2009 he re-recorded many of his better known songs for an album entitled, “The Best and Beyond.” $50-$55. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

D.A.S.S.H “Doing a Sprint for Samish Health,” the 5K Family Fun Run/Walk for Clean Water Awareness, will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 27. The race will begin at Edison Elementary School, 5801 Main St., and wind through Edison.

Enjoy prizes, refreshments, geoduck chowder, booths and activities. Registration (includes a T-shirt): $10 ages 19 to 69; $5 ages 13 to 18; free for ages 12 and younger, 70 and older and veterans of all ages. Dayof-race registration available. databar events.com/dash.

TRAIL BUILDERS Mount Vernon Trail Builders seeks volunteers to help with trail building and maintenance at Little Mountain Park in Mount Vernon. Work sessions are held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays, rain or shine. The next session is Feb. 27. Lunch, snacks, tools and training are provided. For information, call Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation at 360-336-6215 or visit mountvernontrailbuilders.com.

ANTIQUES DISCOVERY The American Association of University Women will host the ninth annual Antiques Discovery from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Have your antique goods evaluated by certified appraisers. $15 per item. For tickets and reservations, call 360-422-5341.

FREE IMPROV WORKSHOP Sheila Goldsmith, director of Improv Playworks in Bellingham, will offer a free improv workshop from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 28, at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave., Mount Vernon. Enjoy an afternoon of play, creativity, storytelling and fun, including a selection of games and exercises from improvisational theater. All skill levels welcome. No experience necessary. Free. 360-756-0756.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, February 25, 2016

OUT & ABOUT ART “SECRETS OF THE MOUNT VERNON CULTURE”: After a month-long hiatus, the Skagit County Historical Museum is featuring a special installation, “Secrets of the Mount Vernon Culture: Uncovered, Documented and Prepared by Jack Gunter” continuing through May 15, at 501 S Fourth St., La Conner. The show features monumental pottery sculptures, paintings and other “artifacts” created

by Camano Island artist, author and world traveler Jack Gunter. The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. $5 adults, $4 seniors and children ages 6 to 12, $10 families. Free for members and children ages 5 and younger. 360466-3365 or skagitcounty. net/museum.

‘FROM THE FOREST’: Check out a collection of amazing fungi, bones and paintings of and from local forests continuing through March 19, at Gallery Cygnus, 109 Commercial, La Conner.

Gallery hours are noon to five p.m. Friday through Sunday. 360-708-4787 or gallerycygnus.com.

WINTER BIRDS: A group art show focusing on feathered friends will continue through Feb. 29 at Smith & Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison.

February is a majestic time in Skagit Valley for bird watching. It seems appropriate to pay them tribute in a variety of mediums.

Participating artists include Karen Hackenberg, Graham Schodda, Jay Steensma, Karen Blanquart, Susan Cohen Thompson, Karen Willenbrink-Johnsen, Jason

WINTER BIRDS

ety and Pastel Society of America, Michaels’ art has taken him to exotic destinations around the world including Africa, Europe, Central America and Indonesia. n The “Winter into Spring Juried Exhibit” featuring the work of more than 20 local and regional artists is also on display throughout the Art Center, with work by Art Center students of all ages shown in the Library Gallery. 360-354-3600 or jansenartcenter.org.

DICK GARVEY: PHOTOGRAPHY: The show continues through March 1, at Scott Milo Gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. The Final Chapter is a closing show for all of the remaining Dick Garvey prints from the estate’s inventory. The exhibit will feature more than 30 canvas prints, as well as a selection of matted prints available for the last time. Gallery hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Monday through Saturday or by appointment.

360-293-6938 or scottmilo. com.

A group art show focusing on feathered friends will continue through Feb. 29 at Smith & Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison. A peice by participating artist Nate Reese is shown above.

Johnsen, Tara Almond, Eve McCauley, Catherine Kerwick, Rosa Frank, Nancy Vogel, Kathleen Faulkner, Kat Houseman, Peregrine O’Gormley, Kris Ekstrand Molesworth, Marceil DeLacy, Gabe Newton, Nate Reese, Caryn Friedlander, David Blakesley, Toni Ann Rust, Joe Kaftan, Vikki Jackson, Lyn Jackson, Pieter VanZanden, Jazz Morgan, Dee Doyle, Catherine Thompson, Bob Prowda, Randena Walsh,

Cheri O’Brien, Peter Belknap and Lindsay Kohles The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 360-766-6230 or smithandvallee.com.

“THE PAINTINGS OF ERIC MICHAELS”: The exhibition will continue through April 1, at the Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden. A signature member of the Oil Painters of America, National Watercolor Soci-

“FROM ETCHING ...

TO EPSON”: A show of printmaking through the ages will continue through Feb. 29, at Fourth Corner Frames & Gallery, 311 W. Holly St., Bellingham.

Examples included in the show range from the earliest woodblock techniques to engraving, aquatint etching and finally today’s digital printing. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 360734-1340 or fourthcorner frames.com.

ART IN EDISON: Oil pastels and mixed media artworks by Heidi Epstein and Sue Danielson will be on display Feb. 26-March

3 at i.e. Gallery, 5800 Cains Court, Edison. A reception for the artists will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 28. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. 206-437-8534, 360488-3458 or ieedison.com.

SURFACE DESIGN: “Beyond The Surface,” featuring work by the Whidbey Island Surface Design Group, will continue through March 27, at the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, 703 S. Second St., La Conner.

The group’s third exhibit at the museum includes artwork created with fiber and fabric as a base, and embellished using a variety of processes including dyeing, wrapping, felting, stitching, weaving, image transfer, beading, quilting, painting, printing and collage.

Participating artists include Liz Axford, Danielle Bodine, Mary Burks, Debra Calkins, Fine Gelfand, Zia Gipson, Carol Barton Jerome, Cheryl Kamera, Janet King, Patricia King, Barbara Kuznetz, Kristin Lasher, Nan Leaman, Nancy LooremAdams, Pat Morse, Natalie Olsen, Marie Plakos, Diane Reardon, Bergen Rose, Laura Stangel Schmidt, Ilene Rae Sorenson, Janet Steadman, Larkin Jean Van Horn, Sande Wascher-James and Colleen Wootton. n A show of Embroidered Fiber Art by Anne Middleton will continue through Feb. 28. Middleton’s hand-stitched work focuses on Northwest Rock Art, and features petroglyphs and pictographs.

Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Admission: $7, $5 students and military, free for members and children ages 11 and

younger. 360-466-4288 or laconnerquilts.org.

NORTHWEST ART: A trio of exhibitions continues through March 17, at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m.

Sunday and Monday. Free admission. 360-466-4446 or monamuseum.org. n “April Surgent: Observations of Life on Ice”: As a recipient of the National Science Foundation’s Antarctic Artist and Writers program, Surgent conducted eight weeks of fieldwork in the Antarctic during the Austral summer of 2013. Surgent’s cameo glass engravings on layered-glass panels depict her experiences and impressions of the Antarctic and the work happening there. n “Here and There: Topographic Conversations with Morris Graves”: “Here and There” engages viewers in a discussion between Morris Graves, eight contemporary artists and their environments. In addition to works by these eight artists, the exhibit features two pieces created by Graves while he was living in both Skagit and Humboldt Counties. Not only did these artists live in the same topographical regions as Graves, but like him they are also contemplating the natural world and its ability to inspire creativity. Also included are several photos of Graves taken by Imogen Cunningham and Mary Randlett. Participating artists include Lanny Bergner, Ann Chadwick Reid, Eve Deisher, Lori Goodman, Leslie Kenneth Price, Julie McNiel, Allen Moe and Emily Silver.

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

OUT & ABOUT n “Appassionata: The Art of Jacqueline Barnett 1990-2015”: Often used as a musical term, appassionata refers to an intensely impassioned period or person. Curated by Seattle gallery owner Francine Seders, the exhibit includes dynamic artworks that evoke both joy and pain. Seders chose oil paintings because they “reflect an intense emotional state of mind (while) their composition and play of colors give them strength and stability.” Barnett’s bold colors, stable compositions and fluid brushstrokes reflect emotions experienced by all individuals.

SMELT DERBY

p.m. Wednesday, March 30, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St. Anacortes Police Chief Bonnie Bowers facilitates a discussion centered on the documentary about recognizing and responding to racism in our society. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityof anacortes.org.

MORE FUN

FESTIVALS SNOW GOOSE & BIRDING FESTIVAL: The 11th annual Port Susan Snow Goose & Birding Festival is set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27-28, with a variety of activities at the Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. Events are scheduled both days at several locations around Stanwood and Camano Island.

Enjoy guided and unguided birding tours, displays and presentations, kids’ activities and more.

Advance registration is required for guided tours. snowgoosefest.org.

LECTURES AND TALKS WRITERS’ FORUM: The 2016 AAUW Writers’ Forum will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St. This year’s focus is on mysteries and will feature Washington state authors Judith Kirscht, Mary Ann Schradi and Linda Johns.

This event is sponsored

Skagit Valley Herald file

The La Conner Rotary’s 51st annual Smelt Derby Family Festival will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, with activities scheduled around La Conner. The derby and children’s activities are free; breakfast: $7 adults, $3 kids.

For a complete schedule of activities, visit laconnerrotary.org. by the Anacortes branch of AAUW, the Anacortes Public Library, and Watermark Book Company. The forum is free and open to the public and will include a question and answer session after presentations by each of the writers. 360293-1910.

MOUNT BAKER ERUPTION HAZARDS: Dave Tucker of the Mount Baker Volcano Research Center will present “Mount Baker Eruptive History and Hazards” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 3, at the Burlington Public Library, 820 E. Washington Ave., Burlington. Learn about the volcanic history of Mount Baker, its eruptions, collapses and the hazards this active volcano poses for Whatcom/Skagit communities. Free. 360-755-

0760 or burlingtonwa.gov/ library.

CEMETERY ART: The Skagit Valley Genealogical Society will present “The Silent Stones Speak: An Introduction to Gravestone Icons” from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at the Burlington Senior Center, 1011 Greenleaf Ave. Use the east entrance. Margie Wilson, of the Burlington Historical Society, will discuss late 19th to early 20th century cemetery art using photographs from Burlington’s Green Hills Memorial Cemetery and from her travels in Europe. Free. 360-7576224 or skagitvalleygen ealogy.org.

MARITIME SPEAKER SERIES: “Classic Motor Yachts of the Pacific Northwest”: 4 p.m. Sat-

urday, March 19, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes.

The Pacific Northwest has a heritage of some of the finest boat designers and builders in the world.

Capt. Rick Etsell narrates a slide show of some of these timeless classic vessels. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityof anacortes.org.

SMELT DERBY: The La Conner Rotary’s 51st annual Smelt Derby Family Festival will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, with activities scheduled around La Conner. A pancake breakfast to benefit La Conner High School seniors will start the day from 8 to 11 a.m. at Maple Hall, followed by fish painting and other children’s activities from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The smelt fishing derby will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Anelia’s parking lot; bring your own fishing poles and gear. The derby and children’s activities are free; breakfast: $7 adults, $3 kids. For a complete schedule of activities, visit laconnerrotary.org.

POETRY IN ANACORTES HISTORY”: 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 23, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Local historian Bret Lunsford traces elements of Anacortes history through local poets. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityof anacortes.org.

ANTIQUES DISCOVERY: The American Association of University Women will host the ninth annual Antiques Discovery event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Have your antique goods evaluated by certified appraisers. $15 per item. Proceeds support Skagit Valley College women’s scholarships. For tickets and reservations, call 360-4225341.

“CRACKING THE CODES: THE SYSTEM OF RACIAL INEQUALITY”: 7

MODEL SHOW/ SWAP MEET: Performance Modeling Club of

Northwest Washington will hold its 21st annual Model Show and Swap Meet from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 28, at Best Western Plus Skagit Valley Inn & Convention Center, 2300 Market St., Mount Vernon. Check out a variety of plastic and resin model cars, trucks and more, along with swap meet vendors offering model kits, tools, modeling supplies and lots more. Model entry fee (includes admission) is $5 for up to three models and $1 for each additional model. Swap meet tables available.

Show admission is $4 adults, $3 seniors (ages 62 and older) and juniors (16 and younger), free for ages 6 and younger. 360755-9464 or performance modelingclub.net.

FASHION FUNDRAISER: Skagit Friendship House will present the sixth annual “En Vogue” Runway Show and Benefit Auction, opening with a reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by runway modeling and a live auction at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 3, at the Swinomish Casino and Lodge, 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes. The event will feature stylish repurposed garments created by local designers out of secondhand materials. Their transformations are unveiled on the runway, then auctioned off to the highest bidder.

General admission: $35.

VIP reserved seating: $60, includes one complimentary drink. Proceeds will benefit the Friendship House. Tickets are available at Friendship House, The Tattered Page in Mount Vernon or online at brownpapertickets. com/event/2504334. For information, call 360-3366138.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, February 25, 2016

GET INVOLVED AUDITIONS AUDITIONS FOR ONEACT PLAYS: The Poseidon Players will hold auditions at 6 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 26-27, at the Whidbey Playhouse Star Studio, 730 SE Midway Drive, Oak Harbor. Performances will take place April 21-23. The Poseidon Players are open to anyone interested in becoming a playwright, director, actor or technician. All levels of experience accepted.

360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“SOUTH PACIFIC”: Auditions will be held from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Sunday, and 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 28-29, at the Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. A variety of parts are available for several men and women, as well

as one boy and one girl.

Prepare 16 bars of a classical musical theater piece, with your music clearly marked; professional accompanist provided.

There will also be a short dance/movement audition.

Performances of the musical comedy will take place June 3-26. 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

“WHIDBEY HAS TALENT”: Auditions for Whidbey’s first island-wide youth talent show will be held by appointment from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, and 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 5-6, at the Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor. Youth in grades K-12 are invited to audition and showcase their talents in song, music, drama, dance and comedy.

Finalists will compete for scholarships and awards at the “Whidbey Has Talent”

show Sunday, April 24, at the Oak Harbor High School Student Union Building. For information, call 360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

AUDITIONS FOR CHORAL SINGERS: Cantabile Chamber Choir seeks to audition experienced choral singers to join our fine ensemble. Rehearsals are Mondays, 6:30-9 p.m. in Mount Vernon. The group’s next concerts are April 23-24. Check us out on Facebook. Contact Jennie Bouma at cantabilechamberchoir@gmail.com or 425-312-4565.

DANCE MOMMY & ME DANCE CLASS: For children ages 1 to 3 years with a parent or guardian: 9:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesdays, March 1-22, at Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon.

Children will love learning dance, coordination, rhythm and stretching, while moms love the exercise. $30. Preregistration required: Stop by the Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation office at Hillcrest Park or call 360336-6215.

BALLET AND TAP DANCE CLASSES: for ages 3 to 5: Classes will meet from 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Tuesdays, March 1-22, at Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon.

Children will learn the terminology and preparatory steps of ballet and tap while building grace, poise and strength. $40. Preregistration required. Stop by the Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation office at Hillcrest Park or call 360336-6215.

TUMBLE, PLAY AND SING: Skagit Valley Academy of Dance will offer a class for ages 21⁄2 to 5 from 10:15 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays, March 2-23, at 1522 Jay Way, Mount Vernon.

Students will work on large motor skills through play, including parachute time, playing ball and balancing with bean bags, creative play with scarves, music with shakers, and circle and partner time with movement and song. $40. 360-424-6677 or skagitvalleyacademyof dance.com.

FOLK DANCING: Skagit-Anacortes Folk Dancers meets Tuesdays at the Bayview Civic Hall, 12615 C St. in Bayview, Skagit County. 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 p.m. The first session is free, $3 thereafter. All are welcome. No partners needed. For information,

contact Gary or Ginny at 360-766-6866.

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 360-933-1779 or visit bellinghamscd.org.

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 Gisela at 360-4245696.

MUSIC BARBERSHOP HARMONY: Want to have fun singing 4-part Barbershop harmony? Attend a free, no-commitment rehearsal of the An-O-Chords. No experience necessary, no auditions required. Learn by rote, you don’t have to read music. All ages welcome, 12 to 90+. Drop in any Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Northwest Educational Service Building, 1601 R Ave., Anacortes. Rides available. Bob Lundquist, 360-941-5733 or svenbob@ cheerful.com.

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

TIME FOR FIDDLERS: The Washington Old Time

Fiddlers play acoustic old time music at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland. St. Free; donations accepted.

Information: 630-1156.

SKAGIT VALLEY MUSIC CLUB: The club welcomes performers (intermediate and above), listeners and guests to join the fun at 1:45 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25, at Vasa Hall, 1805 Cleveland St., Mount Vernon.

Come and sing, play the club’s piano or organ, play your own instrument or just enjoy a variety of music — ’20s to ’70s classical, popular, western and gospel. Free. For information, call Elaine at 360-4284228.

CALL FOR SINGERS: Join the women of Harmony Northwest Chorus from 6:30-9 p.m. every Monday at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave. Seeking women who like to sing a cappella music. All skill levels welcome.

B.Y.O.G. (Bring Your Own Guitar): Beginner/ intermediate acoustic guitar jam from 7 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday, March 2, at North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. Free. 360-707-2683.

B.Y.O.U. (Bring Your Own Ukulele): Beginner/ intermediate ukulele jam at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, at North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. Learn to play and jam with other local ukulele players. Free.

360-421-6842.

ANACORTES OPEN MIC: 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, at the Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-2932544.

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

GET INVOLVED OPEN MIC: Jam Night: 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursdays, at the Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

DRUM CIRCLE: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 17, at the Center for Spiritual Living, 1508 N. 18th St., Mount Vernon. Bring your drum or borrow one.

Handicapped accessible.

Free. Freewill offering accepted. 360-305-7559.

RECREATION TRAIL GUIDES, BIKE MAPS & MORE: Learn about opportunities to be physically active in Skagit County, including trail guides, an activity tracker and local resources at BeActiveSkagit.org.

HEALTHY HIKES: Rangers and guests will lead hikes beginning at 9:30 a.m. each Saturday, through April 30, at Rockport State Park, 51095 Highway 20, Rockport. Meet in the parking lot near the restrooms for a moderate-paced hike on the three-mile Evergreen Trail. Participants can also choose to hike trails on their own. Well-behaved dogs are permitted on leash. The park features an ADA-accessible trail.

Dress for the weather with footwear suitable for wet, muddy and/or slippery trails. Hikes end

with warm drinks in the Discovery Center.

Participants who hike 100 miles in Rockport State Park during 2016 will earn a hand-carved walking stick made by Don Smith, artist and Senior Park Aide. Miles can be logged on the staff-led hikes or anytime in 2016 on one’s own. The log must be completed at the park after each hike.

The hikes are free, but a Discover Pass or $10 day pass is required to park, except for March 19 and 26 and April 22, which are State Parks “Free Days.” For information, contact Laura Busby, Interpretive Specialist, at 360-853-8461 or email rockport@parks.wa.gov.

COACH PITCH INSTRUCTIONAL LEAGUE: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation will offer MVPR’s Big Hitters Coach Pitch Instruction League for boys and girls ages 6 to 8. The program’s goals are to learn the basics of baseball and develop hand/eye coordination through catching and hitting the ball. Practice and games are played outdoors and may be canceled due to weather.

Parents are encouraged to help at games and practices as needed. The league will include six

games on Saturdays, April 9- May 14. $55, includes T-shirt and trophy. Volunteer coaches and sponsors are needed. Register by March 10 at 360-336-6215.

MINI KICKERS SOCCER CLASSES: for ages 2 to 5: The 10-week session will meet Tuesday mornings, April 12-June 14, at Skagit River Park, 1100 S. Skagit St., Burlington.

Ages 2-3 will meet from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Ages 4-5 will meet from 10 to 10:45 a.m. British Challenger’s professional, licensed coaches will teach kids basic soccer skills, while helping them develop strength, balance, coordination, listening skills and teamwork. $99. First-time players will receive a jersey, shorts, ball and certificate. Returning players receive a backpack, ball and certificate. Preregister online at minikicker soccer.com. For information, contact Burlington Parks and Recreation at 360-755-9649.

TRAIL BUILDERS: Mount Vernon Trail Builders seeks volunteers to help with trail building and maintenance at Little Mountain Park in Mount Vernon. Work sessions are held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays, rain or shine. Lunch, snacks, tools and training are provided. For informa-

tion, call Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation at 360-336-6215 or visit mountvernontrailbuild ers.com.

Next up: n Feb. 27 n March 12 and 26 FREE PARK ADMISSION: In honor of Washington State Parks’ 103rd birthday, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission will offer free admission to all state parks on Saturday, March 19. On this day, the Discover Pass will not be required to enter state parks. The pass is still required to access lands managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources. parks.wa.gov.

SALMON HABITAT RESTORATION: Join

Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group (SFEG) to help restore native riparian plants in the Skagit and Samish watersheds.

These plants will provide shade and cover for salmon and leaf litter for aquatic insects, which in turn provide food for salmon. These riparian zones also improve water quality by controlling erosion and filtering pollutants. All planting events take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. For information, directions or to sign up, call 360336-0172 or email sfeg@ skagitfisheries.org.

Next up: n March 5: Nursery potting party.

beaches of Puget Sound, the Volunteer Beach Naturalist Program is looking for you. Classes will meet weekly beginning at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, in the West Beach Shelter at Deception State Park, with one class at the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and a Saturday field trip to Rosario Beach. Volunteers receive training on topics including tide pool ecology, intertidal invertebrates, marine mammals, human history, environmental education and more. The training is free in exchange for a commitment to volunteer at Rosario Beach. For information or to sign up, visit deceptionpassfounda tion.org/naturalist, email dpbeachnaturalist@gmail. com or call 360-675-3767, ext. 31.

VOLUNTEER BEACH NATURALIST: If you are interested in marine stewardship, enjoy talking with people, and love the

La Conner Rotary & Town of La Conner

51st Smelt Derby Family Festival Saturday, February 27

FREE FISHING DERBY 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM Anelia’s Parking Lot

La Conner HS Senior Class

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

8:00 to 11:00 AM • Maple Hall $7 Adults, $3 Kids

FREE FISH PRINTING

9:00 AM to Noon • Maple Hall

FREE FAMILY FUN CARNIVAL

Children’s Museum of Skagit County Noon to 3:00 PM • Maple Hall

La Conner Merchants FISH WALK

FISH WALK PRIZES & FISHING AWARDS 2:30 PM . MAPLE HALL 2016 Smelt Derby Family Festival Sponsors GOLD SPONSORS Port of Skagit County • Lake Goodwin Resort SILVER SPONSORS

Frontier Ford • Guardian Northwest Title Company • Holland Health Services • Karen Homitz, DDS Island Internal Medicine • Mavrik Marine Inc. • Northwest Farm Credit Service • Peoples Bank • Pioneer Market ReHab Station & ReHab Coffee • Reisner Distributor, Inc. • Sierra Pacific Industries • Skagit Tradition Realty

FISH WALK PRIZE DONORS Katy’s Inn • Oyster & Thistle • Port of Skagit • Swinomish Casino & Lodge

www.laconnerrotary.org

E8 Thursday, February 25, 2016

Thursday, February 25, 2016 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area February 26-March 6 Jeffrey Cohan

TUNING UP Playing at area venues February 25-March 3 THURSDAY.25

Anne Röhrig

baroque flute

baroque violin

FRIDAY.26

Kevin Kieneker: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Tate Cohan photo

WAYNE HAYTON 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

The Autumn Electric: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Jeff Peters: 6 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. 360-982-2649.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover.

425-737-5144 or 360-6296500.

SATURDAY.27

Dryland, Mos Generator, A Collection of Cyclops Skulls: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6.

360-778-1067.

AARON CRAWFORD 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

FRIDAY.26

Bernward Lohr

harpsichord

SATURDAY.27 “HANOVER BAROQUE” 7:30 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2117 Walnut St., Bellingham. $15-$25 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger. 360-733-2890 or salishseafestival.org/bellingham.

Friday.26

Saturday.27

Tuesday.1

Saturday.5

MUSIC

MUSIC

MUSIC

COMEDY

Gino Vannelli: 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $50-$55. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

Mike in the Morning from KAPS, KBRC: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

Members and signed-in guests only. 360848-8882.

Bayshore Symphony celebrates Chinese New Year: 7:30 to 9 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 415 S. 18th St., Mount Vernon. $15 suggested donation, free for ages 13 and younger. 360-724-7300 or bayshoremusicproject.com.

Gino Vannelli: 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $50-$55. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

“Hanover Baroque”: Bernward Lohr, harpsichord; Anne Röhrig, baroque violin; and Jeffrey Cohan, baroque flute: 7:30 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2117 Walnut St., Bellingham. $15-$25 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger. 360-7332890 or salishseafestival.org/bellingham.

Jazz Festival, featuring musicians from Skagit Valley College and regional high schools and middle schools: 8 a.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Free. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

Friday.4 MUSIC

Lunasa (Celtic music): 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $30-$40. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

Komodo Comedy, with Davey Wester: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

Sunday.6

Scratchdog Stringband: 7:30 p.m., Friday Swing, with Duane Melcher Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, and Ken Vanderhyde (’30s, ’40s & ’50s classic tunes): 7 to 9 p.m., Conway. $7. 360-445-3000.

North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. No cover.

Whiskey Fever: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 360-707-2683. a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360Levi Burkle: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 422-6411.

320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Wayne Hayton (folk rock, Americana): 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

Acoustic Jam Night: Nick Anthony and Friends, 7 to 10 p.m., Evelyn’s Tavern, 12667 Highway 9, Clear Lake. 360-399-1321. 360-766-6266.

Cee Cee James: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Tin Foil Cat album release party, Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La The Snakebites, Momo Grace, Conner. 360-399-1805.

Moonhat: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6.

360-778-1067.

Nashville Northwest: 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10.

425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

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

SATURDAY.27 Mark DuFresne Band (blues): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Room, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $12. 360-445-3000.

Harrison B.: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $7. 360445-3000.

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

Chris Eger Band: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-755-3956.

Argo and Star Go Country: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Aaron Crawford (country): 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

The Crow Quill Night Owls, Gallus Brothers: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7.

360-778-1067.

Sea Notes: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. Members and signed-in guests only. 360848-8882.

The Sardines: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6330.

MUSIC

“Viva Vivaldi!”: Whidbey’s Saratoga Orchestra and Oak Harbor High School Harbor Singers, 2:30 p.m., Oak Harbor High School, One Wildcat Way, Oak Harbor. $25 adults, $20 seniors/military, free for ages 17 and younger (13 and younger must be accompanied by a paying adult).

360-929-3045 or sowhidbey.com.

SUNDAY.28 Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

MONDAY.29 Ron W. Bailey & The Tangents: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

Deakin Hicks: 6 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

THURSDAY.3 Square dance, with Conway West: 7 to 9 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Loft, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5. 360-445-3000.

Released From Quiet (blues): 6 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. 360-4453000.

Pete Irving & Co.: 6 to 8 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. 360-9822649.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover.

425-737-5144 or 360629-6500.

E8 Thursday, February 25, 2016

Thursday, February 25, 2016 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area February 26-March 6 Jeffrey Cohan

TUNING UP Playing at area venues February 25-March 3 THURSDAY.25

Anne Röhrig

baroque flute

baroque violin

FRIDAY.26

Kevin Kieneker: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Tate Cohan photo

WAYNE HAYTON 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

The Autumn Electric: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Jeff Peters: 6 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. 360-982-2649.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover.

425-737-5144 or 360-6296500.

SATURDAY.27

Dryland, Mos Generator, A Collection of Cyclops Skulls: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6.

360-778-1067.

AARON CRAWFORD 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

FRIDAY.26

Bernward Lohr

harpsichord

SATURDAY.27 “HANOVER BAROQUE” 7:30 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2117 Walnut St., Bellingham. $15-$25 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger. 360-733-2890 or salishseafestival.org/bellingham.

Friday.26

Saturday.27

Tuesday.1

Saturday.5

MUSIC

MUSIC

MUSIC

COMEDY

Gino Vannelli: 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $50-$55. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

Mike in the Morning from KAPS, KBRC: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

Members and signed-in guests only. 360848-8882.

Bayshore Symphony celebrates Chinese New Year: 7:30 to 9 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 415 S. 18th St., Mount Vernon. $15 suggested donation, free for ages 13 and younger. 360-724-7300 or bayshoremusicproject.com.

Gino Vannelli: 8 p.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Pacific Showroom, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. $50-$55. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

“Hanover Baroque”: Bernward Lohr, harpsichord; Anne Röhrig, baroque violin; and Jeffrey Cohan, baroque flute: 7:30 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2117 Walnut St., Bellingham. $15-$25 suggested donation, free for ages 18 and younger. 360-7332890 or salishseafestival.org/bellingham.

Jazz Festival, featuring musicians from Skagit Valley College and regional high schools and middle schools: 8 a.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Free. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

Friday.4 MUSIC

Lunasa (Celtic music): 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $30-$40. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

Komodo Comedy, with Davey Wester: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

Sunday.6

Scratchdog Stringband: 7:30 p.m., Friday Swing, with Duane Melcher Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, and Ken Vanderhyde (’30s, ’40s & ’50s classic tunes): 7 to 9 p.m., Conway. $7. 360-445-3000.

North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. No cover.

Whiskey Fever: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 360-707-2683. a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360Levi Burkle: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 422-6411.

320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Wayne Hayton (folk rock, Americana): 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

Acoustic Jam Night: Nick Anthony and Friends, 7 to 10 p.m., Evelyn’s Tavern, 12667 Highway 9, Clear Lake. 360-399-1321. 360-766-6266.

Cee Cee James: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Tin Foil Cat album release party, Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La The Snakebites, Momo Grace, Conner. 360-399-1805.

Moonhat: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6.

360-778-1067.

Nashville Northwest: 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10.

425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

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

SATURDAY.27 Mark DuFresne Band (blues): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Room, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $12. 360-445-3000.

Harrison B.: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $7. 360445-3000.

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

Chris Eger Band: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-755-3956.

Argo and Star Go Country: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Aaron Crawford (country): 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $10. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

The Crow Quill Night Owls, Gallus Brothers: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7.

360-778-1067.

Sea Notes: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. Members and signed-in guests only. 360848-8882.

The Sardines: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6330.

MUSIC

“Viva Vivaldi!”: Whidbey’s Saratoga Orchestra and Oak Harbor High School Harbor Singers, 2:30 p.m., Oak Harbor High School, One Wildcat Way, Oak Harbor. $25 adults, $20 seniors/military, free for ages 17 and younger (13 and younger must be accompanied by a paying adult).

360-929-3045 or sowhidbey.com.

SUNDAY.28 Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

MONDAY.29 Ron W. Bailey & The Tangents: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

Deakin Hicks: 6 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

THURSDAY.3 Square dance, with Conway West: 7 to 9 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Loft, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5. 360-445-3000.

Released From Quiet (blues): 6 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. 360-4453000.

Pete Irving & Co.: 6 to 8 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. 360-9822649.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover.

425-737-5144 or 360629-6500.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E10 - Thursday, February 25, 2016

Damning study finds a ‘whitewashed’ Hollywood

By JAKE COYLE AP Film Writer

NEW YORK — In one of the most exhaustive and damning reports on diversity in Hollywood, a new study finds that the films and television produced by major media companies are “whitewashed,” and that an “epidemic of invisibility” runs top to bottom through the industry for women, minorities and LGBT people.

A study that was released Monday by the Media, Diversity and Social Change Initiative at the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism offers one of the most wideranging examinations of the film and television industries, including a pointed “inclusivity index” of 10 major media companies — from Disney to Netflix — that gives a failing grade to every movie studio and most TV makers.

Coming just days before an Academy Awards where a second straight year of all-white acting nominees has enflamed

Local travel SAIL THE RIVERS AND SEAS: The Viking Cruises presentation will be held at 6 p.m., Thursday, March 10, at AAA Mount Vernon, 1600 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. RSVP: 360-848-2090.

WOMEN’S TRAVEL ADVENTURES: The final travel presentation hosted by the Mount Vernon City Library will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 29, at 315 Snoqualmie St., Mount Vernon. “Girls Trip to Europe” will feature library staff members Alisa and Alberta, and friend Bonnie, who will share their collective lessons learned and tips and tricks for independent or solo travel to Europe.

Free. 360-336-6209 or mount vernonwa.gov/library.

TUSCANY HOLIDAY TRIP: The Burlington Chamber of

an industry-wide crisis, the report offers a new barrage of sobering statistics that further evidence a deep discrepancy between Hollywood and the American population it entertains, in gender, race and ethnicity.

“The prequel to OscarsSoWhite is HollywoodSoWhite,” said Stacy L. Smith, a USC professor and one of the study’s authors, in an interview. “We don’t have a diversity problem.

We have an inclusion crisis.”

The study, titled the Comprehensive Annenberg Report on Diversity, examined the 109 films released by major studios (including art-house divisions) in 2014 and 305 scripted, firstrun TV and digital series across 31 networks and streaming services that aired from September 2014 to August 2015.

Approximately 11,000 speaking characters were analyzed for gender, racial and ethnic representation and LGBT status.

Some 10,000 directors, writers and show creators were examined, as was the gender of some 1,500 executives.

The portrait is one of per-

Commerce will host a free preview of its fall trip to Tuscany at 5 p.m. Monday, March 7, at the chamber office, 520 E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. The trip, scheduled for Oct. 26-Nov. 3, will visit Florence, Pisa and Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, the Chianti region and Montecatini, with an optional trip available to Cinque Terre. RSVP: 360-757-0994.

“A TIERRA DEL FUEGO TRAVEL ADVENTURE”: 7 p.m.

Wednesday, March 16, Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Author Reanne Hemingway Douglass describes her 300-mile bicycling expedition through “horrendous weather and appalling road conditions across one of the most remote and beautiful regions of the planet.” Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityofana cortes.org.

vasive underrepresentation, no matter the media platform, from CEOs to minor characters.

“Overall, the landscape of media content is still largely whitewashed,” the study concludes.

In the 414 studied films and series, only a third of speaking characters were female, and only 28.3 percent were from minority groups — about 10 percent less than the makeup of the U.S. population. Characters 40 years or older skew heavily male across film and TV: 74.3 percent male to 25.7 percent female.

Just 2 percent of speaking characters were LGBT-identified. Among the 11,306 speaking characters studied, only seven were transgendered (and four were from the same series).

“When we start to step back to see this larger ecology, I think we see a picture of exclusion,” said Smith. “And it doesn’t match the norms of the population of the United States.”

Behind the camera, the discrepancy is even greater. Directors overall were 87 percent white. Broadcast TV directors (90.4 percent white) were the

least diverse.

Just 15.2 percent of directors, 28.9 percent of writers and 22.6 percent of series creators were female. In film, the gender gap is greatest: Only 3.4 percent of the films studied were directed by women, and only two directors out of the 109 were black women: Ava DuVernay (“Selma”) and Amma Asante (“Belle”).

USC’s study, which the school has been publishing in various forms for the last 10 years, also seeks to add a new metric in the conversation. The “inclusivity index” is a report card for the performances of 21st Century Fox, CBS, NBC Universal, Sony, the Walt Disney Co., Time Warner, Viacom, Amazon, Hulu and Netflix. Those companies encompass all the broadcast networks, most major cable channels, all of the major movie studios and three of the dominant streaming services.

Each was rated by their percentage of female, minority and LGBT characters; and of female writers and directors. None of the six major studios rated bet-

SHORT TRIPS: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation offers travel opportunities for ages 8 and older (adult supervision required for ages 17 and younger). Trips depart from and return to Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. For information or to register, call 360-336-6215.

ESCORTED TOURS: The Oak Harbor Senior Center, 51 SE Jerome St., has these trips planned: South Dakota, Sept.

4-10; Legendary Waterways of Europe, Budapest to Amsterdam, Oct. 12-27. 360-2794580.

ESCORTED TOURS: The Whatcom County Tour Program offers a variety of day trips and longer tours, with most trips departing from and returning to the Bellingham Senior Activity Center, 315 Halleck St., Bellingham. For information or to register: 360733-4030, ext. 1015, or wccoa. org/index.php/Tours.

OAK HARBOR DAY TRIPS: The Oak Harbor Senior Center, 51 SE Jerome St., offers day trips for members. 360-2794587.

STATE VISITOR CALL CENTER: The Washington Tourism Alliance’s ExperienceWA Call Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. 1-800-5441800 or tourisminfo@watouris malliance.com.

Staff members assist travelers who have questions, refer them to specific destination marketing organizations and other travel resources across the state for more detailed information, and take orders for the Washington State Visitors Guide.

ter than 20 percent overall; Time Warner fared poorest of all with a score of zero. The report concludes that the film industry “still functions as a straight, white, boy’s club.”

Disney, Sony, Paramount, Fox, Universal and Warner Bros. didn’t immediate comment Sunday night.

Some of the same companies, however, scored better when their TV and digital offerings were evaluated. Disney, the CW, Amazon and Hulu all scored 65 percent and above.

“When we turn to see where the problem is better or worse, the apex to this whole endeavor is: Everyone in film is failing, all of the companies investigated,” said Smith. “They’re impervious to change. But there are pockets of promise in television. There is a focus that change is possible.

The very companies that are inclusive — Disney, CW, Hulu, Amazon to some degree — those companies, if they’re producing and distributing motion pictures, can do this. We now have evidence that they can, and they can thrive.”

PASSPORT APPLICATIONS: Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes, accepts new passport applications and applications for passports that have been expired for more than five years from noon to 6 p.m.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and by appointment only from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Passport forms and information on fees and how to apply are available at travel.state.gov, or pick up an application and passport guide at the library.

Post offices in Mount Vernon, Sedro-Woolley and Oak Harbor accept passport applications by appointment. Contact individual offices for available days and times.

Oak Harbor Senior Center, 51 SE Jerome St., Oak Harbor, accepts passport applications Monday through Friday. Appointments are recommended. 360279-4580.

Thursday, February 25, 2016 - E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

HOT TICKETS GALACTIC: Feb. 26, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxon line.com.

SLAYER, TESTAMENT, CARCASS March 19, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. purchase.tickets.com.

BARCELONA: Feb. 26, The Crocodile, Seattle.

877-987-6487 or thecroco dile.com.

ANDERS OSBORNE: April 3, Neumos, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

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

THE ROBERT CRAY BAND: April 8, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre. org.

A FIDDLER’S FEAST: with Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas and Jay Unger and Molly Mason: Feb. 27, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-7346080 or mountbaker theatre.com.

IRON MAIDEN: April 11, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma.

800-745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

ELVIS COSTELLO: with Larkin Poe: April 17, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham.

360-734-6080 or mount bakertheatre.com.

PAPADOSIO: Feb. 27, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

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

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

ST. LUCIA: March 2, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxon line.com.

MARCHFOURTH! MARCHING BAND: March 5, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

HELLOWEEN: March 6, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

AOIFE O’DONOVAN: March 6, Columbia City Theatre, Seattle. 800-7453000 or LiveNation.com.

CRAIG FERGUSON: March 6, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-7346080 or mountbaker theatre.com.

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

MUTEMATH: March 8, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

SUDDEN VALLEY JAZZ SERIES: April 2/Nov. 5, Sudden Valley Dance Barn, Bellingham. 360-671-1709 or FSWL.org.

DISTURBED: March 12, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

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

DAUGHTER: March 19, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

LORD OF THE DANCE: DANGEROUS GAMES: March 20, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-7844849 or LiveNation.com.

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA: March 20, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN AND THE E STREET BAND: March 24, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

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

TONIGHT ALIVE/SET IT

OFF: March 24, Neumos, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

JOHNNY RIVERS: March 25-26, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

“A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN”: March 25-April 17, The 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle. 206-6251900 or 5thavenue.org.

THE FLOOZIES: March 26, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

IGGY POP: March 28, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or LiveNation.com.

UNDEROATH: March 30, Showbox SoDo, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

ELLIE GOULDING: April 2, KeyArena, Seattle. 800745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III: April 2, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Please recycle this newspaper

MELISSA MANCHESTER: April 29-30, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877275-2448 or theskagit. com.

SELENA GOMEZ: May 13, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-

745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

Seattle. 800-745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

CHARLIE MUSSELWHITE: May 13-14, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit. com.

WATERSHED FESTIVAL: with Jason Aldean, Eric Church, Keith Urban and more: July 29-31, Aug. 5-7, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. watershedfest. com.

THE WHO: May 15, KeyArena, Seattle. thewho. com.

BEYONCÉ: May 18, CenturyLink Field, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

BILLY JOEL: May 20, Safeco Field, Seattle. 800745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

PAUL SIMON: May 28-29, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Woodinville. 800745-3000 or Ticketmaster. com.

PHISH: July 15-16, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

STING & PETER GABRIEL: July 21, KeyArena,

DEMI LOVATO, NICK JONAS: Aug. 21, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

5 SECONDS OF SUMMER: Aug. 28, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 800745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

DAVE MATTHEWS BAND: Sept. 2-4, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. davematthewsband.com.

DARYL HALL & JOHN OATES: Sept. 9, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 800745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

MAROON 5: Oct. 11, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-7453000 or LiveNation.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E12 - Thursday, February 25, 2016

Oscars: Who will win, who should win

By RANDY MYERS San Jose Mercury News

Expect plenty of drama Sunday at the Academy Awards. Aside from Leonardo DiCaprio as a shoo-in, there are few clear favorites in the major categories as is reflected in the roulette wheel of picks from national critics groups and other awards organizations.

Here then are my mostly uncertain predictions:

BEST PICTURE

The nominees: “The Big Short,” “Bridge of Spies,” “Brooklyn,” “Mad Max: Fury Road,” “The Martian,” “The Revenant,” “Room,” “Spotlight” What will win: This is the toughest category to call. “The Martian” is the biggest crowd-pleaser, but it’s only a good adventure film — not a great one. “Brooklyn’s” gentle demeanor brings light to the immigrant experience, but Oscar doesn’t favor low-key dramas. Everything about Steven Spielberg’s “Bridge of Spies” is polished, but the glacial pace of the Cold War spy tale kills it chances.

“Room” could be a dark horse, but once again its subject matter — abducted mom raises son the best she can — remains a formidable challenge (just look at those box-office numbers). “Mad Max: Fury Road” represents spectacular, go-for-broke filmmaking, but action movies rarely pole-vault to the podium. And while “The Revenant” took guts and stamina to make, and even sit through, the Academy will find it too grueling. So it’s down to two true-life takes on scandals. “Spotlight” took a tenacious journalist-like approach depicting the Boston Globe’s investigation into the clergy sex

abuse cover-up. It’s a noble film, one to admire, respect and get incensed about. It could win. But I’m placing my bets on “The Big Short.” Adam McKay’s caffeinated dramedy that manages to simultaneously make us laugh and feel outrage at the subprime mortgage debacle all over again. Oscar adores movies with a message, and this one delivers it with gusto.

What should win: “Mad Max: Fury Road.” Even more than “The Revenant,” “Fury” created a unique and startling vision. Using minimal dialogue, it defied franchise expectations by turning a female character into one of the strongest action characters since “Alien’s” Ripley landed.

In between the Cirque du Soleil-like polecats and front-fender guitar-playing, burbled commentary about religion, oppression and fascism. It’s an action classic. But should “Room” or “Spotlight” sneak in for the win, I’m more than satisfied, too.

BEST DIRECTOR

The nominees: Adam McKay, “The Big Short;” George Miller, “Mad Max: Fury Road;” Alejandro G. Inarritu, “The Revenant;” Lenny Abrahamson, “Room;” Tom McCarthy, “Spotlight” Who will win: In “Room,” Abrahamson worked wonders with both his lead actors, and handled a horrifying subject with remarkable sensitivity. In “Short,” McKay made the complicated subject of financial collapse not just comprehensive but compelling. Still, others struggled more for their art. A steady, principled McCarthy gave us one of the best portraits of journalism ever, but will Oscar forgive him for having written and directed Adam Sandler’s

“The Cobbler” the same year? Inarritu endured reshoots, obsessive method actors and snowstorms to make the audacious “The Revenant.” But he won last year (for “Birdman”), so a repeat is doubtful. I suspect the Academy will honor Miller, a highly respected industry veteran who brought new vitality to not just a franchise but a genre.

Who should win: Miller.

His “Mad” vision will become a classic.

BEST ACTOR

The nominees: Bryan Cranston, “Trumbo;” Matt Damon, “The Martian;” Leonardo DiCaprio, “The Revenant;” Michael Fassbender, “Steve Jobs;” Eddie Redmayne, “The Danish Girl” Who will win: Cranston was a fireplug as blacklisted author Dalton Trumbo, but he didn’t stretch much. As a music-loving astronaut saddled on Mars, the charming Damon made us care about his fate. As the iconic Jobs, Fassbender made Aaron Sorkin’s meaty screenplay sing. While Redmayne was eloquent as a man undergoing a gender reassignment surgery, he got last year’s.

So to no one’s surprise, it’s DiCaprio’s year. As a vengeance-seeking frontiersman who survives a bear attack and other cruelties, both man-made and in nature, he will win.

Who should win: For a career Oscar, I’d love to see the award go to Leo. He’s been robbed of Oscar gold before, with his terrific performances in “Shutter Island” and “The Wolf of Wall Street” for starters.

But for this year’s best performance? Come to the podium, Damon. It’s unfortunate he’ll be dismissed for delivering a “light” performance, because without his genial presence, Ridley Scott’s film would have

been utterly lost in space.

BEST ACTRESS

The nominees: Cate Blanchett, “Carol;” Brie Larson, “Room;” Jennifer Lawrence, “Joy;” Charlotte Rampling, “45 Years;” Saoirse Ronan, “Brooklyn” Who will win: Now, we’re talking some truly great performances. This year finally saw an uptick in quality roles for women.

As a rich housewife with a curious eye out for a New York shopgirl, Blanchett was icy and complicated.

Lawrence took a halfbaked screenplay about the Miracle Mop inventor and helped clean up a scattered mess. Ronan gave a nuanced, soulful performance as an immigrant torn between the responsibilities of two worlds in “Brooklyn.”

Veteran actress Rampling made every critical second count as a former English teacher who discovers the extent of her husband’s premarital affair. And Larson masterfully expressed the torment, love and commitment of a mother trying to protect her child in extraordinary circumstances in “Room.”

Who should win: Larson’s turn is also the caliber of a performance that deserves an Oscar. I’m a huge fan of Rampling, but after seeing “45 Years” a second time, I have to say Larson had a more challenging role. The scene in which her character is interviewed on TV is crushing to witness. It’s a brilliant performance that’s never manipulative.

ter Stallone, “Creed” Who will win: Rylance, a tremendous thespian, graced us with one of the most intriguing characters of the year, a socially awkward spy who loved to paint. He was amazing, but the role didn’t require his character to change much.

Hardy was terrific as the cruel, greedy sociopath in “Revenant,” but he’ll be back another year. Ruffalo brought his usual passion to his role as a dogged reporter in “Spotlight,” but it really wasn’t a headlinemaking performance. As a hard-rock-lovin’ Silicon Valley hedge fund manager who saw a crisis barreling toward investors, Bale was so convincing you forgot he was ever the Dark Knight. But Hollywood loves a comeback story and after years of trudging through misfires such as “Grudge Match,” Stallone comes out looking like a champ as a wiser and more humbled Rocky Balboa in “Creed.” He’ll win.

Who should win: Bale.

In a film populated with colorful eccentrics, Bale was the one who gave the most focused and fascinating performance.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

The nominees: Christian Bale, “The Big Short;” Tom Hardy, “The Revenant;” Mark Ruffalo, “Spotlight;” Mark Rylance, “Bridge of Spies;” Sylves-

Paramount Pictures via AP

Rafe Spall (from left), Jeremy Strong, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling and Jeffry Griffin star in “The Big Short.”

The nominees: Jennifer Jason Leigh, “The Hateful Eight;” Rooney Mara, “Carol;” Rachel McAdams, “Spotlight;” Alicia Vikander, “The Danish Girl;”

Kate Winslet, “Steve Jobs” Who will win: As a foultempered prisoner stuck in a room full of duplicitous men, Jennifer Jason Leigh got knocked around so much she certainly earned her spot here. But that performance didn’t move the needle much. Mara played it timid and mousy as a shop girl falling in love with a married woman.

But it wasn’t a passionate performance, and the part needed a bit of that.

McAdams gave her all as a journalist assigned to get at the heart of a groundbreaking story about sexual abuse. “The Notebook” star has never been better, but it’s a modulated performance. In Winslet’s telling eyes, we glimpsed the genius of Steve Jobs, along with how frustrating it would be to work for him. But what was going on with that accent? The Academy will stick to tradition and reward relative newcomer Vikander. She had a breakout year, and showed passion and range as the supportive wife of a man undergoing a historic gender-assignment surgery.

Who should win: It’s a no-brainer: Vikander.

When I think of “The Danish Girl” it’s more about her heartfelt performance than Redmayne’s. n Randy Myers is president of the San Francisco Film Critics Circle.

Thursday, February 25, 2016 - E13

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

AT THE LINCOLN

Shakespeare’s glorious comedy of love and change comes to the National Theatre for the first time in over 30 years, with Rosalie Craig (“London Road,” “Macbeth” at MIF) as Rosalind.

With her father the Duke banished and in exile, Rosalind and her cousin Celia leave their lives in the court behind them and journey into the Forest of Arden.

There, released from convention, Rosalind experiences the liberating rush of transformation. Disguising herself as a boy, she embraces a different way of living and falls spectacularly in love. $16 adults, $14 seniors, $12 students and children, with $2 off for Lincoln Theatre members. 10 percent off with purchase of 4 different plays in the NT Live Season.

‘Spotlight’

7:30 p.m. FridaySaturday, Feb. 26-27 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 28 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 29 “Spotlight” tells the riveting true story of the Pulitzer Prize-winning Boston Globe investigation that would rock the city and cause a crisis in one of the world’s oldest and most trusted institutions. When the newspaper’s tenacious “Spotlight” team of reporters delve into allegations of abuse in the Catholic Church, their year-long investigation uncovers a

‘0’ Night at the Lincoln

5:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 28 First time Ever Academy Awards Viewing Party Red Carpet at 4:30 p.m., Awards ceremony at 5:30 p.m.

Live from Hollywood, view the most glamorous night of the year on our beautiful, big screen. Predict the winners, trivia, photo ops, concessions for purchase, no-host bar.

Wear your fancy or casual party clothes. Free to Lincoln Theatre Members. n The Lincoln Theatre is located at 712 S. First St. in downtown Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org

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decades-long cover-up at the highest levels of Boston’s religious, legal, and government establishment, touching off a wave of revelations around the world.

Six Academy Award nominations, including Best Motion Picture of the Year; Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role (Mark Ruffalo); Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role (Rachel McAdams); Best Achievement in Directing (Tom McCarthy); Best Writing, Original Screenplay (Josh Singer, Tom McCarthy; and Best Achievement in Film Editing (Tom McArdle).

Rated R. $10 general; $9 seniors, students and active military; $8 members; $7 ages 12 and under. Sunday bargain prices: $8 general; $6 members; $5 ages 12 and under.

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E14 - Thursday, February 25, 2016

MOVIES MINI-REVIEWS Taron Egerton (right) and Hugh Jackman star in “Eddie The Eagle.”

Larry Horricks photo Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation

‘Eddie the Eagle’ will win you over

By KATIE WALSH Tribune News Service

‘EDDIE THE EAGLE’ HHH

A cheery tale of unlikely sporting triumph, “Eddie the Eagle,” directed

by Dexter Fletcher, offers up a retro feel-good yarn about the power of determination.

While it’s often cookie-cutter sports movie conventional, you’d have to be stone-hearted to remain uncharmed by the story of real-life British ski jumper Michael “Eddie” Edwards, played by rising star Taron Egerton.

As a kid, enthusiastic young Eddie declares he’s going to be an Olympian, despite his corrective leg braces and coke bottle glasses, to the bemusement of his sweetly supportive mum (Jo Hartley), and disappointment of his pragmatic working class dad (Keith Allen).

Training his sights on the Winter Olympics, he finds some success as a downhill skier, until the British Olympic team rudely turns up their noses up at him. But nothing stops Eddie, and armed with the knowledge that Britain hasn’t fielded a ski jumper since the 1920s, he figures the odds are in his favor to qualify for the Games.

Because winning isn’t what Eddie cares about — all he wants is to participate. This point is reiterated by the repetition of a quote from Pierre de Coubertin, that, “the most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking

Cast: Taron Egerton, Hugh Jackman, Keith Allen, Jo Hartley, Mark Benton, Tim McInnerny, Rune Temte Running time: 1 hour 45 minutes Rating: PG-13 for some suggestive material, partial nudity and smoking.

part.”

For Eddie, taking part has always been the goal, but ultimately, he discovers his real challenge is to take himself seriously, and therefore have others take him seriously.

But Eddie wins hearts with his unabashed chipper goofiness. Lacking natural talent and training, he relies on his can-do spirit and eagerness to fling himself down increasingly tall ski jumps.

Certified hunk Egerton (“Kingsman,” “Legend”) has been given a typical Hollywood treatment to render himself homely — outlandish glasses and frizzy hair. But Egerton proves himself to be a performer lacking in vanity and gifted with physical chops, adding a sideways grimace and bumbling gait to fully transform himself.

There are many who will see “Eddie the Eagle” as a British “Cool Runnings.” It’s an apt comparison, and there is a reference to

the Jamaican bobsled team. Both films culminate at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, and tell the tales of misfit athletes with indefatigable spirits striving for a piece of glory.

Though their quests seem impossible, and there are plenty of naysayers along the way to remind them of that, these oddball heroes with humble hearts and pure intentions provide great inspiration in just sticking their necks out; in their sheer will, a willingness to want and to work for a bit of greatness.

The screenplay, by Sean Macaulay and Simon Kelton, takes liberties with the real Eddie Edwards story. Eddie finds a drunken, washed-up American ski jumper in Germany to train him, Bronson Peary (Hugh Jackman), a character who has been made up out of whole cloth, as the real Edwards trained with a pair of coaches in Lake Placid.

But autobiographical details aren’t what this story’s about. A foil to Eddie, Jackman provides a frisson of sexy danger, and his outcast status allows a doubling down on the dark horse qualities that make eventual success taste that much better.

The manipulation of the story details demonstrates the filmmakers’ skill in execution — like a perfect ski jump, they lean into that sweet spot of lovable underdog sports flick, and stick the landing.

Compiled from news services.

Ratings are 1 to 4 stars.

“Anesthesia” — An attack on a professor (Sam Waterston) is the starting point for a meandering and moribund multi-character journey. This ensemble piece plays like “Crash” in a minor note, with one heavy-handed scene after another, all leading up to an ambivalent, unsatisfying ending. Drama, R, 90 minutes. H½ “A Perfect Day” — In the Balkans of the mid-1990s, humanitarian aid workers are met with ludicrous roadblocks to their effort to save a village’s water well. Benicio Del Toro leads the terrific cast of this searing, roughedged black comedy. Drama, R, 106 minutes. HHH½ “Anomalisa” — Even though it is a highly stylized, stop-motion animation film featuring puppet-like human characters, the latest creation from the mind of Charlie Kaufman is a pinpoint-accurate encapsulation of some of the most banal AND some of the most exhilarating moments virtually all of us have experienced at some point in our lives. Animated drama, R, 90 minutes.

HHHH “Bad Hurt” — A Staten Island family finds kindness and love while enduring terrible tumult in an authentic and gritty, if occasionally overwrought, drama. Drama, no MPAA rating, 101 minutes. HHH½ “Carol” — As women acting on a mutual attraction in 1950s Manhattan, Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara make for one of the most intriguing and memorable movie couples of the year. Todd Haynes directs this elegant, quietly powerful film with subtle precision. Drama, R, 118 minutes. HHH½ “Hail, Caesar!” — As they recount the adventures of a 1950s Hollywood “fixer” (Josh Brolin), the Coen brothers pay homage to genres from noir to Westerns. “Hail, Caesar!” is pure popcorn fun -- a visual treat, a comedic tour de force and a sublime and sly slice of satire. Comedy, PG-13, 106 minutes. HHHH “How to Be Single” — Dakota Johnson and Rebel Wilson are the standouts in one of the most endearing romantic comedies in recent memory, with some laughout-loud dialogue, gorgeous photography and charming performances from the entire cast. Romantic comedy, R, 110 minutes. HHH½ “Legend” — Playing twin British gangsters in 1960s London, Tom Hardy makes some bold and always entertaining if not entirely successful choices. The fictionalized version of the terrifying, violent and twisted Krays manages to be pedestrian and derivative for long stretches.

Crime biography, R, 131 minutes. HH½ “Meadowland” — Olivia Wilde and Luke Wilson deliver authentic performances as parents dealing with loss in different ways. It is a well-photographed and sometimes surprising story, a character study about what happens to a marriage when a child has gone missing and in all likelihood will never be found. Drama, R, 95 minutes. HHH “Mojave” — The first great performance of 2016 comes from Oscar Isaac, as a gun-toting drifter who encounters a famous actor (Garrett Hedlund) in the desert and becomes his stalker. Writer-director William Monahan gives the stars dozens of rich, intricate lines, and they’re both up to the task and then some. Thriller, R, 93 minutes. HHHH “Moonwalkers” — In 1969, a CIA agent is sent to England to recruit Stanley Kubrick to film a phony moon landing. It’s pretty great to see the craggy-faced, boomvoiced Ron Perlman (“Sons of Anarchy”) teamed up with the cheeky Rupert Grint (“Harry Potter”) in a cheerfully insane, often confounding but ultimately entertaining trip through the looking glass. Comedy, R, 107 minutes.

HHH

Thursday, February 25, 2016 - E15

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MUSIC REVIEWS

MOVIES AT AREA THEATERS ANACORTES CINEMAS Feb. 26-March 3 Deadpool (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:35, 4:00, 6:30, 8:50; Sunday-Wednesday: 1:35, 4:00, 6:30; Thursday: 1:35, 4:00 Hail, Caesar! (PG-13): Friday-Saturday: 1:15, 3:50, 6:40, 9:10; Sunday-Thursday: 1:15, 3:50, 6:40 45 Years (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:25, 3:40, 6:50, 9:00; Sunday-Thursday: 1:25, 3:40, 6:50 Zootopia (PG): Thursday: 7 p.m.

360-293-7000 CONCRETE THEATER Feb. 26-28 The Finest Hours: (PG-13): Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: 5 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 5 p.m.

BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Oak Harbor 360-675-5667

“Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” — In this extra-weird twist on Jane Austen’s classic story, Mrs. Bennet tries to marry off her daughters against the backdrop of a great zombie apocalypse. Director Burr Steers does a nifty job of rocketing from period-piece romance to gory bloodshed, with sprinkles of dark humor here and there. Action horror, PG-13, 107 minutes.

HHH “The Benefactor” — Delivering a performance so self-consciously ACTORISH it often takes us right out of the film, Richard Gere stars as a multi-multimillionaire bestowing his wealth on his friends’ daughter (Dakota Fanning) and the father of her child (Theo James). Drama, not rated, 90 minutes. HH “The Choice” — This love story starring Teresa Palmer (a winning presence) and Benjamin Walker (never hitting his stride) is classic Nicholas Sparks, and by that I mean it’s a mediocre, well-photographed, undeniably heart-tugging, annoyingly manipulative and dramatically predictable star-crossed romance. Romance, PG-13, 110 minutes. HH “The Finest Hours” — As crew members try to keep their wrecked tanker afloat, a four-man Coast Guard team rushes to their rescue. Based on true events in 1952, “The Finest Hours” plays like a hokey, cornball 1950s-era drama filled with stock characters and weakened by a sappy ending. Adventure drama, PG-13, 114 minutes. HH “The Hateful Eight” — Quentin Tarantino’s second Western in a row is an exhilarating moviegoing experience, filled with wickedly dark humor, nomination-worthy

CASCADE MALL THEATERS Burlington For showings: 888-AMC-4FUN (888262-4386) OAK HARBOR CINEMAS Feb. 26-March 3 Risen (PG-13): Friday-Sunday: 1:20, 3:50, 6:50, 9:20; Sunday-Thursday: 1:20, 3:50, 6:50 Deadpool (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:10, 3:30, 6:40, 9:00; Sunday-Wednesday: 1:10, 3:30, 6:40; Thursday: 1:10, 3:30 The Big Short (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:00, 3:40, 6:30, 9:10; Sunday-Thursday: 1:00, 3:40, 6:30 Zootopia (PG): Thursday: 7 p.m.

360-279-2226 STANWOOD CINEMAS Feb. 26-March 3 Gods of Egypt (PG-13): 1:20, 9:10 Gods of Egypt 3D (PG-13): 3:40, 6:30 Risen (PG-13): 1:00, 4:10, 6:35, 9:25 Deadpool (R): 1:40, 4:00, 6:45, 9:00 Hail, Caesar! (PG-13): 4:15, 7:00, 9:20 Kung Fu Panda 3 (PG): 1:30 p.m.

The Revenant (R): 1:10, 3:50, 7:00 360-629-0514

performances and a jigsaw puzzle plot that keeps us guessing until the bloody, brilliant end. This is one of the best movies of the year. Drama, R, 187 minutes. HHHH “The Night Before” — Joseph GordonLevitt, Seth Rogen and Anthony Mackie play longtime friends who get into all sorts of misadventures on one crazy Christmas Eve of self-discovery. At times, it’s really funny. More often, it’s “shocking” for the sake of shock value, gross for the sake of being gross, and stupid-goofy without much of a payoff. Comedy, R, 101 minutes. HH “Triple 9” — If you’re in the right frame of mind for a lurid, blood-soaked B-movie with an A-list cast including Casey Affleck, Anthony Mackie, Woody Harrelson and Kate Winslet, “Triple 9” is just the ticket.

Go with the flow and maybe you’ll be entertained as I was, even as you acknowledge this thing is fabulous trash. Crime action, R, 115 minutes. HHH½ “Youth” — A retired composer (Michael Caine) goes on his annual retreat to a mysterious Swiss Alps resort to get away from it all, but the world keeps coming to him. Director Paolo Sorrentino, a serious talent with a grand vision, has created a stylized and eccentric film filled with strange little subplots and surprises.

Drama, R, 118 minutes. HHH½ “Zoolander 2” — Ben Stiller’s shallow and grating male model character reunites with best friend Hansel (Owen Wilson) to help solve some pop star murders. Celebrity cameos abound, but with few exceptions, their visual sight gags or one-liners fall flat with a resounding thud. Comedy, PG-13, 100 minutes. H½

BJ THE CHICAGO KID, “In My Mind” — “She say she wanna drink, do drugs, and have sex tonight … but I got church in the morning,” BJ the Chicago Kid coos on “Church,” a clear standout from his major-label debut, “In My Mind.” The disc is simply excellent from beginning to end. It’s R&B meets soul with hefty doses of gospel, hip-hop and funk. The list of guests is staggering and reflects the stellar artists for whom he has kissed tracks (Chance the Rapper, Big K.R.I.T., Kendrick Lamar). There’s everything from hard-hitting, open-window summer bangers to heartfelt love songs to syrupy R&B that smacks of the Isley Brothers and Frank Ocean. This record’s a welcome respite and surreal companion to the month-old Anderson Paak LP “Malibu.”

These 15 tracks are so seamless and cohesive it’s a challenge to distinguish track breaks on occasion — a little more than an hour of undulating music that works as a statement. “Shine” is outstanding, though, a sentimental beauty that would work as a wedding song. “The New Cupid” plays with the premise of a love dart at the club. “Falling on My Face” and “Woman’s World” are welcome ruminations on feminine beauty and power. And then the single “The Resume” deftly drops with finger snaps, swirling Auto-Tuned vocals, and a brilliantly fleshedout metaphor of sexual devotion (“I’m gonna work that body like it’s a 9-to-5,” he sings). It’s no surprise his main-

stream introduction arrives via Motown — he’s poised for a truly great career. n Bill Chenevert, The Philadelphia Inquirer

DION, “New York Is My Home” — Even in his teen-idol days, Dion DiMucci had an affinity for the blues and R&B. In recent years, “The Wanderer” has embraced that music wholeheartedly, and it has inspired the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer to do some of the best work of his career.

For “New York Is My Home,” the Bronx’s favorite son has teamed with multi-instrumentalist Jimmy Vivino and his band, the Black Italians. On a set of mostly originals, the 76-year-old singer enlivens those bedrock sounds (along with some Chuck Berry flavor on “The Apollo King”) with his patented “King of the New York Streets” swagger, which remains undiminished, just like the voice that made him a star.

The title song is the anomaly here, but it’s just as strong in its own way. “New York Is My Home” features just Dion, fellow New Yorker Paul Simon, and a drummer on a moving reverie that recalls his “Abraham, Martin, and John” folk-rock period.

And even as it subtly evokes some earlier Big Apple homages — “The city never sleeps, it’s my state of mind” — it remains undeniably Dion. n Nick Cristiano, The Philadelphia Inquirer

ANTHRAX, “For All Kings” — So how does Anthrax’s “For All Kings” stand out

or stack up? The easiest thing to do in reviews of this kind is point out that “It still sounds like (Insert Name Here)” and luckily that is the case with Anthrax. With an album like “For All Kings” and a band like Anthrax, there is no singular sound to cite. As in the band’s heyday with Joey Belladonna in the 1980s, “For All Kings” stands out as powerful thrash metal with a distinctive sound that is unmistakably Anthrax.

True, the band has its fair share of darker lyrics about burned and melted halos and murder and mayhem, in keeping with their latter-day pentagram “A” symbol, but Anthrax is not a band to attempt to emulate all the rest. n JC Macek, popmatters. com

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