360 Jan. 2, 2020 by Skagit Publishing

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

EAGLE FESTIVAL KICKS OFF MONTHLONG RUN THIS WEEKEND PAGE 4

Eric Johnson brings his ‘classic’ riffs to the Lincoln PAGE 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday January 2, 2020

OUT & ABOUT PAGE 5 Venture to downtown Anacortes for the monthly Art Walk ON STAGE PAGE 8

ALTA Theatre presents “The Curious Savage” in Alger

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

NEW ON DVD “THE LIGHTHOUSE”: Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson star as two men attempting to stay sane on an 1890s New England island, stuck after a storm, residing in a, well, you know. Disturbing imagery abounds as Winslow (Pattinson) begins experiencing disturbing visions, and the film may deeply affect your relationship with those beacons of the sea (this movie’s got everything: a decapitated head, graphic violence against fake seagulls, etc.). It’s weird, and it’s dark, and we should expect nothing less from director Robert Eggers, whose debut was the 2015 feature “The Witch.” And it works, wrote Chicago Tribune critic Michael Phillips in his review. “The story (doesn’t) operate as any sort of conventional ghost story, or thriller, or anything,” Phillips wrote. “But on its own terms, thanks to two fine, committed performances and a coastline made for this tall tale, ‘The Lighthouse’ works its own stubborn form of black magic, pulling ideas and dynamics from silent and early sound cinema, from early Harold Pinter plays such as ‘The Dumb Waiter,’ and from the recesses of the Eggers brothers’ fertile imagination.” “JOKER”: In one of the most polarizing movies of 2019, Joaquin Phoenix stars as Arthur Fleck, a failed stand-up comedian who, struggling with mental illness and an unjust system, devolves into becoming the infamous DC Comics supervillain and archrival of Batman. The film aims to create empathy for the character, blaming his environment for inspiring his eventual life of crime. Todd Phillips left comedy to direct the film (he told Vanity Fair it’s hard to be funny with “this woke culture”). But considering the controversy that came with it, wrote Tribune News Service’s Katie

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

Inside Out & About........................... 4-5 Get Involved........................... 6-7 On Stage...................................... 8 Tuning Up................................... 9 Travel.........................................10 Hot Tickets...............................11 At the Lincoln..........................13 Movies................................. 14-15 ON THE COVER Eric Johnson will play the Lincoln Theatre on Jan. 9. Max Crace photo COURTESY OF A24 FILMS

Willem Dafoe (left) and Robert Pattinson star in “The Lighthouse.”

Walsh in her review, it doesn’t live up to the hype. “‘Joker’ is cloaked in the kind of prestige that tricks you into thinking there’s something more meaningful there: moody cinematography, bursts of extreme violence, an actor who doesn’t so much as perform but psychically channel a character,” wrote Walsh. “But this is all window dressing, smoke and mirrors to distract from the story being painfully thin and told with all the nuance of a sledgehammer. This thing wouldn’t pass muster in paneled newsprint, and aside from a few soap opera-style reveals, you’ve heard it all before.” ALSO NEW ON DVD JAN. 7 “A MILLION LITTLE PIECES”: A writer with a drug addiction (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) checks in to a Minnesota rehab.

“BIG LITTLE LIES: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON”: Three mothers in affluent Monterey, California (Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley), have a dark secret in this HBO mystery series. “BULLETPROOF 2”: A special agent (Faizon Love) disguises himself as a member of a criminal family and unintentionally puts the person he’s impersonating (Kirk Fox) in danger. “CROWN VIC”: An LAPD officer (Thomas Jane) attempts to catch two criminals who have murdered cops. “GIRL ON THE THIRD FLOOR”: A flawed husband (C.M. Punk) attempts to fix up a dilapidated house with a dark past. “IMPRISONED”: A prison warden (Laurence Fishburne) frames an ex-convict out on parole (Juan Pablo Raba) for murder.

“MINE 9”: A group of Appalachian miners fight to survive after being trapped underground because of a methane explosion that limits their oxygen. “PARADISE HILLS”: Young women (Emma Roberts, Awkwafina, Eiza González, Danielle Macdonald) must escape from a peaceful island after learning the disturbing truth behind it. “THE SHED”: Bullied teens (Jay Jay Warren, Cody Kostro) hatch a sinister plan after discovering a vampire in one of their backyards. AVAILABLE ON DIGITAL HD JAN. 7 “COUNTDOWN”: A nurse (Elizabeth Lail) must beat the clock after opening an app that says she’ll die in three days. Look for it on DVD and Blu-ray Jan. 21. – Katie Foran-McHale, Tribune News Service

SUBMISSIONS Email: features@skagitpublishing.com Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday for the following Thursday edition Phone 360-416-2135 Address Skagit Publishing 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274 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

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Legendary guitarist Eric Johnson ready to rip at the Lincoln By Skagit Valley Herald staff

MAX CRACE PHOTO

‌

Eric Johnson has held a colossally lofty status in guitar-player circles for decades, and rightfully so. His star rose rapidly starting in the mid-1980s, when his staggering technique and soulful approach earned him worldwide acclaim and the adoration of guitar players in every corner of the musical world. Johnson is on his way to Skagit County, as he brings his “Classics: Present and Past” show to the Lincoln Theatre on Thursday, Jan. 9, for one of 45 shows on the tour. Johnson has been traveling on a prolific odyssey over the course of more than four decades, according to a news release. Along the way, his creations have encompassed a repertoire that cross-pollinate genres including rock, blues, jazz, fusion, soul, folk, new age, classical and even country. Among Johnson’s many accolades are a Grammy award for “Cliffs Of Dover” (a track from his platinum-certified “Ah Via Musicom”), lifetime induction into the Guitar Player Gallery of Greats, and his listing among the “100 Greatest Guitarists of the 20th Century” by Musician. In his hometown of Austin, Texas, the readers of the Austin Chronicle have voted Johnson the city’s “Best Electric Guitarist” and “Best Acoustic Guitarist” in their yearly poll year after year. They also named him “Electric Guitarist of the Decade” and one of the top five “Musicians of the Decade,” according to the release. ERIC JOHNSON — CLASSICS: PRESENT AND PAST

When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 Where: Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon Tickets: 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

OUT AND ABOUT

ART

ED BEREAL: The exhibit “Wanted: Ed Bereal for Disturbing the Peace,” featuring six decades of work from the Bellingham-based artist, is on display until Sunday, Jan. 5, at the Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher Building, 250 Flora St., Bellingham. THE LANGUAGE OF PATTERN: Five regional artists will be featured in January at i.e. gallery, 5800 Cains Court, Edison. An opening reception will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4. FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK: Anacortes businesses will feature art from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3, along and around Commercial Avenue. ANNIVERSARY SHOW: The Scott Milo Gallery is celebrating 25 years with art from 15 favorite artists until Jan. 28 at the gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. VOYAGER: Steve Jensen returns to show new carvings and paintings of his Nordic series at Smith & Vallee, 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison, until Jan. 26. An artist talk and reception will take place from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4. EMPOWERMENT OF ART: Work highlighting the strength and skill of local artists is featured at the Good Stuff Arts Gallery, 604 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. NESTS AND LANDSCAPES: Kris Ekstrand is the featured winter artist at the Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden. Work from artists around the region will be featured until Feb. 28. jansenartcenter.org.

INSPIRED BY DESIGN: The 34th annual holiday showcase is back at WaterWorks Gallery, 315 Argyle Ave., Friday Harbor, through Saturday, Jan. 4. NATALIE NIBLACK: FOLLY: Natalie Niblack’s solo exhibit “Folly” is featured at i.e. gallery, 5800 Cains Court, Edison, until March 1.

MUSIC

WHATCOM JAZZ MUSIC ARTS CENTER: Renowned jazz musicians will perform at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at the Sylvia Center for the Arts, 207 Pospect St., Bellingham: n Jan. 8: Bill Anschell Trio. $5-10. n Jan. 15: Kate Olson Ensemble. $5-10. n Jan. 22: Sam Taylor Quartet with Larry McKenna. $5-20. n Jan. 29: Matt Jorgensen Quintet. $5-10. n Feb. 5: Alexis Cole with Cory Weeds. $5-20. n Feb. 12: Laila Biali Trio. $5-20. n Feb. 19: Xavier Lecouturier Quartet. $5-15. n Feb. 26: Phil Parisot Trio. $5-15. SECOND SUNDAY JAZZ: 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12, at La Conner Sips, 608 First St., La Conner. The TimE3jazz trio of Tim Eslick, Andy Carr and Todd Anderson will play originals and compositions by Kenny Barron, Gene Harris, Bill Evans and George Cables. $10. soundcloud.com/time3jazz, 360-610-9773 or laconnersips.com.

THEATER

”THE CURIOUS SAVAGE”: ALTA Theatre presents “The Curious Savage” by John Patrick, opening on Jan. 3 at Alger Community Church, 1475

Eagle Festival starts month-long run n Wildfire Hayrides & Campfire at 11 a.m. at Double O The annual Skagit Eagle FesRanch. Free. tival begins this weekend. The n “Salmon is the name, event draws visitors to Concrete, restoration is the game” talk by Rockport and Marblemount for Maddie Reid, community outa wide variety of eagle-related reach associate, Skagit Fisheries activities. Enhancement Group, 1 p.m. at There are events happening the Skagit River Bald Eagle Interevery full weekend in January. Here’s what’s happening on Satur- pretive Center. day and Sunday, Jan. 4-5. SUNDAY, JAN. 5 n “A Natural History of GlaSATURDAY, JAN. 4 ciers” talk by Dr. Jon Riedel, gen 5K Salmon Run and Nature ologist, North Cascades National Walk at 9:30 a.m. at Double O Park, at 1 p.m. at the Skagit River Ranch, 46276 Concrete Sauk Valley Road. $20. Bald Eagle Interpretive Center. By Skagit Valley Herald staff

Silver Run Lane. Dessert theater at 7 p.m. Jan. 3-4, 9-10, 11, 17-18. Matinees at 2:30 p.m. Jan. 5 and 19. brownpapertickets.com, altatheatre.com, altainfo2001@gmail.com or 360-424-5144. SPACE TREK: Blast through the galaxy in this improvised sci-fi adventure at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday in January at the Upfront Theatre, 1208 Bay St., Bellingham. $12. theupfront.com.

LECTURES & TALKS

ANACORTES PUBLIC LIBRARY: Evening lectures and workshops are held at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes: n Astronomical Drawing: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8. n Beaded Bracelet workshops:7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15. n Anacortes Museum Series: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22. n Opioid Risks and Prevention: 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 29. JOURNEY TO THAILAND AND NEPAL: Linzi

ALL WEEKEND n Skagit River eagle viewing and photography tours, 7349 Ranger Station Road, Marblemount. Reservations required: skagiteagles.com. n Deep forest experience, Rockport State Park, 51095 Highway 20, Rockport. Free guided tours every hour between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. n Forest Service eagle watcher stations, Howard Miller Steelhead Park, Sutter Creek Rest Area and Marblemount Fish Hatchery. skagiteagle.org/viewing-sites.

Bowman will talk about her eight-week trip to Thailand and Nepal and the time she spent with children

at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes.

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OUT AND ABOUT GERMANIC IMMIGRATION TO NORTH AMERICA: The Skagit Valley Genealogical Society will present “Germanic Immigration to North America in the 1800s: Including Luxembourgers, Swiss and Austrians” at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at the Burlington Public Library, 820 E. Washington Ave., Burlington. BIKE TRIP ACROSS AMERICA: Adventurer Patrick McGinty will share his experiences from a 3,411-mile bike trip from California to Florida at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at the Whatcom Museum, 121 Prospect St., Bellingham. $5 suggested donation. CHRONIC PAIN: Author Julie Hanft has written two books on living with chronic pain and will present a free seminar on the topic at 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at Village Books, 1200 11th St., Bellingham. MARINE MAMMALS OF SALISH SEA: Learn about orcas, humpbacks, porpoises, sea lions and other marine mammals that call the Salish Sea home from marine mammologist Cindy Elliser at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 29, at the Burlington Public Library, 820 E. Washington Ave., Burlington.

MORE FUN

SKAGIT EAGLE FESTIVAL 2020: The event takes place during January at various sites in Rockport, Concrete and Marblemount. Some activities are repeated each weekend, on both Saturday and Sunday; other events are onetime only, offered on a

transit.org.

Art Walk in Anacortes By Skagit Valley Herald staff

ANACORTES — The first Friday of each month means is art walk time in Anacortes. From 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3, downtown Anacortes will opens its doors to the public to tour local businesses and galleries to look at all the art Anacortes has to offer. Here are some places to check out: n Trinity Skate, 705 Commercial Ave., will feature the Asian Gardens Series by Stephanie Saturday and/or Sunday during specific weekends. concrete-wa.com/ skagit-eagle-festival. BALD EAGLE INTERPRETIVE CENTER: The Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center offers guided nature hikes along the Skagit River and educational speakers on weekends in January. The center, which offers elementary and high school educational tours as well as community group tours, is located at Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52809 Rockport Park Road, Rockport. Next up: n 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4: “Salmon is the name, restoration is the game,” with Maddie Reid, community outreach associate, Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group. n 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 5: “A Natural History of Glaciers,” with Dr. Jon Riedel, geologist, North Cascades National Park. For a complete list of speakers, visit skagiteagle.org.

Griffin of SLG Photography. n The Good Stuff Arts, 604 Commercial Ave., will present the new juried show “Empowerment of Art” featuring the work of over 25 regional artists. n Red Salon Aveda, 602 Commercial Ave., will feature the work of local photographer Suzanne Rothmeyer for January. n Pelican Bay Bookstore & Coffee Shop, 520 Commercial Ave., welcomes Guemes Island resident and art KIDS CLUB: Heart to Heart Charity presents KIDS Club for those ages 3 and older to work on giv- back projects and crafts at 3 p.m. Sundays, Jan. 5 and 19, behind the fire department, 8334 W. Third St., Lyman. SKAGIT WEDDING SHOW: Connect with bridal vendors in a variety of categories at the Skagit Wedding Show from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at the Skagit Center, 1000 Fountain St., Burlington. For tickets and more information, visit skagitweddingshow.com. MODEL RAILROAD OPEN HOUSE: The Whatcom Skagit Model Railroad Club will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at 1469 Silver Run Lane, Alger, off Old Highway 99. $3 suggested donation. BOOK LOVERS BUS TOUR: Take Island Tran-

JENNIFER BOWMAN

“Walk in the Woods” by Jennifer Bowman.

instructor Janice Veal and her local watercolor landscapes and summer flowers. n Scott Milo Gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., continues its 25-year anniversary show featuring 15 artists who have made a profound sit to two book stores and two libraries in Coupeville and Oak Har-

impact on the success of the gallery. n The Majestic Inn and Spa, 419 Commercial Ave., welcomes the return of Bob Hogan, local acrylic artist and children’s book illustrator (“The Tortoise From Anacortes”).

HUMAN RIGHTS CONFERENCE: The theme for the 2020 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Human Rights Conference is “Tomorrow is Today — The Fierce Urgency of NOW” and will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at Whatcom Community College, 235 W. Kellogg Road, Bellingham. mlkconference.org.

LOOKING AHEAD

bor on Friday, Jan. 24. RSVP and information: 360-678-9536 or travel@

“THE BARN SHOWS”: Hear how two women preserved a piece of the Skagit Valley’s art history in a book called “The Barn Shows” at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Museum of Northwest Art, 121 S. First St., La Conner.

WA WALTON EVENT CENTER

TAILGATE BUFFET, DRAWINGS & PRIZES!

KICKOFF AT 3:30PM DOORS OPEN AT 1:30PM SWINTICKETS.COM

WA WALTON CENTER MARCH 7 & 8 EVENT SWINTICKETS.COM

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

GET INVOLVED

ART CLASSES

MUSEUM OF NORTHWEST ART: 121 S First St., La Conner. n Adult Watercolor Class: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25. $18. n My Adult & Me Painting Class: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. For kids (ages 3-9) and parents to learn together. $25 per pair. n Drawing Jean Behnke: 1-4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 7. $30. THE GOOD STUFF ARTS GALLERY: 604 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3152. A GUILDED GALLERY: Art classes on a variety of topics are available at A Guilded Gallery, 8700 271st St. NW, Stanwood. aguildedgallery.com.

Prices include all classes in a series. TRI DEE ARTS WORKSHOPS: Art classes on a variety of topics are available at Tri Dee Arts, 215 S. First St., Mount Vernon. trideearts.com. PACIFIC NORTHWEST QUILT AND FIBER ARTS MUSEUM: Varied exhibits and classes are available to the public at 703 S. Second St., La Conner. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission: $7, $5 students and military, free for members and children ages 11 and under. 360466-4288 or laconnerquilts.org. n Fiber Fridays: bring any type of fiber art project, quilting, knitting, embellishing, etc., to work on while visiting with oth-

ART WALK

Trinity Skate

705 Commercial Ave.

The Good Stuff Arts

604 Commercial Ave.

Red Salon Aveda

602 Commercial Ave.

Pelican Bay 520 Commercial Ave. Bookstore & Coffee Shop Scott Milo Gallery

420 Commercial Ave.

The Majestic Inn and Spa

419 Commercial Ave.

www.anacortesart.com 1967886

GAIL HARKER CENTER: Gail Harker Center for Creative Arts offers a variety of art classes and workshops for artists of every level at 503 Morris St., La Conner. Online courses are also available. For information and a complete schedule: 360466-0110 or gailcreativestudies.com. PACIFIC NW SCHOOL: Choose from painting, photography, fiber and 3D art workshops taught by professional artists at the Pacific NorthWest Art School, 15 NW Birch St., Coupeville. For information and a complete schedule: 360-678-3396 or pacificnorthwestartschool. com. DAKOTA: Dakota Art Center offers a variety of art classes and workshops at 17873 Highway 536, Mount Vernon. 360-4166556, ext. 5, or dakotaartcenter.com.

FIRST FRIDAY

Friday Jan. 3rd 6-9pm

er fiber artists from 9 a.m. to noon every Friday. Free and open to all.

Stunning Venue Exquisite Cuisine Exceptional Service Convenient Location Event Planning Support Full Beverage Service Ample Free Parking Lodging Packages & More!

Weddings & Special Events

360.416.7622

mcintyrehall.org

from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 7, 14 and 21 with teacher Dave Harry. Couples and singles welcome over age 10. No partner needed. First two evenings free, $4 thereafter to continue. Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. 360-391-3504 or rosie@valleyint.com.

Tingstad and Rumbel perform in Langley

‌

Grammy Award-winning musicians Nancy Rumbel and Eric Tingstad

By Skagit Valley Herald staff

LANGLEY — Grammy Award-winning musicians Eric Tingstad and Nancy Rumbel are coming to Island County. They will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. The musicians, who favor the styling of classic Americana, won the Best New Age Grammy Award in 2003. Tickets are $25, ages 18 and under are free. More information can be found at wicaonline.org.

STANWOOD CAMANO ARTS GUILD: A Guilded Gallery, 8700 271st St. NW, Stanwood, offers a variety of art classes and workshops. For information or to register: 360-629-2787 or stanwoodcamanoarts.com.

Tuesdays. n Mosaics/Stained Glass: 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays. n Color Me Calm: 10 a.m. Thursdays. n Drawing Animals: 2:15 p.m. Thursdays. n Watercolor: 9:30 a.m.

house.com.

ANACORTES SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER: The center hosts a variety of art programs each week at the center, 1701 22nd St., Anacortes. 360-293-7473. n Creative Circle: 9 a.m. Mondays. n Woodcarving: 9 a.m. Mondays. n Acrylics: 9:30 a.m. Mondays. n Rock Painting: 1 p.m. Mondays. n Miracle of Art: 1 p.m.

AUDITIONS

BOOKS

”MUSICAL COMEDY MURDERS OF 1940”: Auditions for Whidbey Playhouse’s April production of “Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, and 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, at the playhouse, 730A Midway Boulevard, Oak Harbor. Prepare a short monologue or song. Details at whidbeyplay-

WHIDBEY HAS TALENT: Children in grades K-12 are invited to audition for Whidbey Has Talent on Feb. 10-13. $10 fee. Details at whidbeyplayhouse.com. SILENT BOOK CLUB: Share a book you have read and silently read another at 4 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at Pelican Bay Books, 520 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

DANCE

SQUARE DANCING: Introduction to Square Dancing will be offered

DANCES OF UNIVERSAL PEACE: Join an spiritual practice that draws inspiration from sacred traditions around the world at this guided dance class from 5:45 to 8 p.m. the first Sunday of each month at Skagit Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 500 W. Section St., Mount Vernon. By donation. BEGINNING LINE DANCING: 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays, Burlington Community Center, 1011 Greenleaf Ave., Burlington. $6 drop-in, $25 for five classes. Adults and teens 13 and older. Register: burlingtonwa. gov/recreation or 360755-9649. FOLK DANCING: Skagit-Anacortes Folk Dancers meet Tuesdays at Bay View Civic Hall, 12615 C St., Bay View. Learn to folk dance to a variety of international music. 7 to 9:30 p.m. First session free, $5 thereafter. No partners needed. Gary or Ginny, 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 softsoled shoes without heels. $8 per class. For information, call Mary Anderson at 360-933-1779 or visit bellinghamscd.org.

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GET INVOLVED SCOTTISH HIGHLAND AND IRISH STEP DANCE: The Clan Heather Dancers offer year-round Scottish Highland and Irish step dance classes in Bellingham, Everett and Mount Vernon. clanheather. com. MONDAY DANCING: Dance to The Skippers or Good Vibrations from 1 to 3 p.m. Mondays at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave., Mount Vernon. Public welcome. Information: Kenneth Kossman (360-336-3682) or the center (360-4161585). $7 per person.

MUSIC

SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL: Harmony Northwest Chorus, a women’s a cappella

group singing four-part harmony barbershop style, welcomes all voice parts ages 15 and up. Meet from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Mondays at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave., Mount Vernon. Contact Carol Ward: 425-2329171 or contact@harmonynorthwest.org. OPEN MIC NITE: 6 to 8 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at Lil’Nut Cafe and Diner, 330 Cherry St., Sumas. SCOTTISH MUSIC SESSIONS: Musicians from around the valley meet at 3 p.m. the first Sunday of each month at Littlefield Celtic Center, 1124 Cleveland Ave., Mount Vernon. The jam session generally focuses on Scottish music.

UKULELE FUN & SONG CIRCLE: 12:301:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Free. Beginners welcome and loaner ukuleles available. Song sheets provided. 206-790-4862 or yogaheartspace0@ gmail.com. BARBERSHOP HARMONY: Join the An-OChords, a four-part barbershop harmony group that meets at 7 p.m. Thursdays at Bethany Covenant Church, 1318 18th St., Mount Vernon. No experience necessary, no auditions required. Learn by rote, you don’t have to read music. All ages welcome. anochords.org. 360-6797473. TIME FOR FID-

EN!”–Seattle Spotlight V EA H E TR EA TH L A IC S U “M

Old-school movie viewing at VHS Night By Skagit Valley Herald staff

BELLINGHAM — VHS. What does it stand for, anyway? Well, on Friday evening at the Pickford Film Center, the acronym stands for Video Hunter Society, in honor of a unique VHS screening event. At 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3, after the downtown art walk, film buffs from all around will meet at the Pickford Film Center, 1318 Bay St. The idea is that each attendee will bring a VHS they would like to see DLERS: The Washington Old Time Fiddlers play at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Friday of each month at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Free; donations accepted. 360-630-1156.

screened, then the film center will select one lucky attendee from a lottery and play the tape they brought. Arrive before the screening to participate in a community tape swap. Tickets are $3.

SHELTER BAY CHORUS: Rehearsals on Thursdays at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse, 1000 Shoshone Drive, La Conner. New members welcome. 360-223-3230. ANACORTES OPEN MIC: 9:30 p.m. Thurs-

days, Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360293-2544. OPEN MIC: Jam Night, 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursdays, Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

G.” –Drama in the Hood N TI A V TI P A C LY TE LE P M “CO

SPONSORED IN PART BY

JAN 3 – FEB 2 I EVERETT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER I BOX OFFICE (425) 257-8600 I VillageTheatre.org

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ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area January 3-12 Friday.3

”GUYS & DOLLS”: 8 p.m., Village Theatre, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. $65-80. 425-257-8600 or villagetheatre.org.

THEATER ”GUYS & DOLLS”: 8 p.m., Village Theatre, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. $65-80. 425-257-8600 or villagetheatre.org.

Saturday.11 THEATER ”BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”: 2 and 7 p.m., BAAY Theatre, 1059 N. State St., Bellingham. 360-306-8531 or baay.org/theatre.

Saturday.4 THEATER ”GUYS & DOLLS”: 2 and 8 p.m., Village Theatre, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. $6580. 425-257-8600 or villagetheatre.org.

”THE CURIOUS SAVAGE”: 7 p.m., ALTA Theatre, Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Alger, (Old Highway 99, one-quarter mile north of Alger, Exit 240). Brown Paper Tickets: altatheatre.com, altainfo2001@gmail. com or 360-424-5144. SPEAKERS MAYA ENSTAD: 7 p.m., First Congregational Church, 2401 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham. Students free, adults $15 suggested donation. bellinghamfestival.org.

Sunday.5 THEATER ”GUYS & DOLLS”: 2 and 7 p.m., Village Theatre, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. $6580. 425-257-8600 or villagetheatre.org.

”GUYS & DOLLS”: 2 and 8 p.m., Village Theatre, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. $6580. 425-257-8600 or villagetheatre.org.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Friday-Sunday.3-5

”THE CURIOUS SAVAGE” ALTA Theatre, Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Alger, (Old Highway 99, one-quarter mile north of Alger, Exit 240). Check individual listings for times. Brown Paper Tickets, altatheatre.com, altainfo2001@gmail.com or 360-424-5144. Pictured: Carson Callis (from left), Maureen Moore, Leona Robertson and Dale Beardon.

”THE CURIOUS SAVAGE”: 2:30 p.m., ALTA Theatre, Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Alger, (Old Highway 99, one-quarter mile north of Alger, Exit 240). Brown Paper Tickets: altatheatre.com, altainfo2001@gmail.com or 360-424-5144.

Wednesday.8

MUSIC A VERY BRASSY CHRISTMAS: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $16-27. 360416-7727 or mcintyrehall.org.

THEATER ”GUYS & DOLLS”: 7:30 p.m., Village Theatre, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. $65-80. 425-257-8600 or villagetheatre.org.

Thursday.9

Friday.10 THEATER ”BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”: 7 p.m., BAAY Theatre, 1059 N. State St., Bellingham. 360-306-8531 or baay.org/theatre.

Sunday.12 THEATER ”BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”: 2 p.m., BAAY Theatre, 1059 N. State St., Bellingham. 360-306-8531 or baay.org/theatre.

”GUYS & DOLLS”: 2 and 7 p.m., Village Theatre, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. $6580. 425-257-8600 or villagetheatre.org.

Thursday, January 2, 2020 - E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TUNING UP Playing at area venues January 3-12

Wednesday.8

BLUES UNION 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill & Anacortes Brewery, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720 or anacortesrockfish.com.

SCOTT PEMBERTON: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 State St., Bellingham. 360-7701067 or shakedownbellingham.com.

Saturday.4

THE WALRUS 7 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham. 360-746-8733 or wildbuffalo.net.

Friday.3

Saturday.4

GROOVE CITY: 9 p.m., Winner’s Lounge, The Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com. BADD DOGG BLUES SOCIETY: 7:30 p.m., Rockfish Grill & Anacortes Brewery, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720 or anacortesrockfish.com. JO PASSED, SCOTT YODER, BLOOD CAPSULES: 9 p.m., Firefly Lounge, 1015 N. State St., Bellingham. thefireflylounge.com or facebook. com/TheFireflyBham. THE PHARCYDE: 9 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham. 360-746-8733 or wildbuffalo.net.

BAREFEET: 8:30 p.m., The Old Edison, 5829 Cains Court, Bow. 360766-6266 or theoldedison.com. GROOVE CITY: 9 p.m., Winner’s Lounge, The Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com. THE WALRUS: 7 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham. 360-746-8733 or wildbuffalo.net. MARCIA KESTER: 6 to 8 p.m., Birdsview Brewing, 38302 Highway 20, Concrete. marciakester.com.

THE SHAY & SHAY RADIO HOUR WITH SPECIAL GUESTS: 8 p.m., Firefly Lounge, 1015 N. State St., Bellingham. thefireflylounge. com or facebook.com/ TheFireflyBham.

Sunday.5 BOW DIDDLERS: 5:30 p.m., The Old Edison, 5829 Cains Court, Bow. 360-766-6266 or theoldedison.com.

Wednesday.8 BLUES UNION: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill & Anacortes Brewery, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720 or anacortesrockfish.com.

Thursday.9 PICKLE COMPANY, JESSIE THORESON & THE CROWN FIRE, THE MARY ANNS: 8 p.m., Firefly Lounge, 1015 N. State St., Bellingham. thefireflylounge.com or facebook.com/TheFireflyBham. HIGH PULP, CYTRUS, SMOOTH KIWI: 9 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham. 360-746-8733 or wildbuffalo.net.

Friday.10 MARCIA KESTER: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon. marciakester.com. COVER TO COVER: 9 p.m., Winner’s Lounge, The Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

EBB, SLACK, AND FLOOD; MAGIC FOREST FIDDLERS; JIM JACKSON: 8 p.m., Firefly Lounge, 1015 N. State St., Bellingham. thefireflylounge.com or facebook.com/TheFireflyBham.

Saturday.11 LISA TEMCOV: noon to 1 p.m., Marblemount Community Center, 60155 Highway 20, Marblemount. CASCADIA GROOVE: 8:30 p.m., The Old Edison, 5829 Cains Court, Bow. 360-7666266 or theoldedison. com. COVER TO COVER: 9 p.m., Winner’s Lounge, The Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com. SAILS UP: 9 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 State St., Bellingham. 360-7701067 or shakedownbellingham.com.

MEGS MCLEAN & BAND: 8:30 p.m., Loco Billy’s, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. 425-7375144, 360-629-6500 or locobillys.com. STAXX BROTHERS, THE SOUL UNITED ALLSTARS: 9 p.m., Firefly Lounge, 1015 N. State St., Bellingham. thefireflylounge.com or facebook.com/TheFireflyBham. HIGH STEP SOCIETY, WILLDABEAST: 9 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W. Holly St., Bellingham. 360-746-8733 or wildbuffalo.net.

Sunday.12 LISA TEMCOV: noon to 1 p.m., Marblemount Community Center, 60155 Highway 20, Marblemount. TIME3 TRIO: 4 p.m., La Conner Sips, 608 First St., La Conner. 360-6109773 or laconnersips. com. THE DAVANOS: 5:30 p.m., The Old Edison, 5829 Cains Court, Bow. 360-766-6266 or theoldedison.com.

E10 - Thursday, January 2, 2020

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TRAVEL

FA M I LY T R AV E L FI V E

Places to explore in 2020 By LYNN O’ROURKE HAYES FamilyTravel.com

Vow to explore more in the year ahead. Here are five ways to fold an adventure into your future plans. 1. GO FAR. STAY CLOSE. There is plenty of research to support the benefits of introducing children to new experiences and cultures apart from their own. When time and money are in short supply, open their eyes and hearts through books and movies that offer a window onto unfamiliar places. Consider an around-theworld tour powered by the written word or the visual splendor available on a large or small screen. Mix old classics (think Heidi in the Swiss Alps) with modern documentaries. Blend animated features, such as the “Lion King” with epic films such as “Out of Africa.” In no time, those places on the map will come to life and inspire future trips, all without leaving home. 2. EXPLORE NEW CULTURES CLOSE TO HOME Transport your family to new destinations or inside an alternate culture in your own town. Visit local restaurants or immerse yourselves in international festivals as a way to learn about customs and lifestyles while encouraging kids to expand their culinary range. Sample baklava at Greekfest, learn a jig at an Irish festival or discover bocce ball during Italian week. Talk about the origins of different ingre-

SHUTTERSTOCK

Will you raft the waters of the mighty Colorado through the grandest canyon of them all?

dients and why many are unique to different regions of the world. Seek out small, local establishments where it might be possible to learn about food preparation or even talk with the chef or proprietor. From curry and coconut to bok choy and barbecue sauce, there is a story to accompany every flavor you’ll sample. 3. DISTANCE DOESN’T MATTER What might you discover within a day’s drive of your home? Are there cities or small towns you’ve longed to visit? National or state parks you’ve put on your “later” list? Are there rivers to float, mountains to climb or gardens to appreciate? Has a new resort or water park recently opened? How about backcountry cabins you might find intriguing? Have you ever stayed in a teepee, a yurt or a treehouse? Carefully comb through the possibilities and choose one or more nearby

locations to explore. 4. PLAN AN EPIC ADVENTURE Is this the year to embark on that epic adventure you’ve talked about for years? There are plenty of boundary-pushing vacations that will intrigue families of various sizes, interests and bank accounts. Will you make your way into the Amazon? How about a hut-to-hut hike in Colorado or Switzerland? Will you raft the waters of the mighty Colorado through the grandest canyon of them all? Or consider snorkeling or diving in Palau or the Galapagos Islands or tracking the Big Five on an African safari? Whether you sail, ski or sample culinary delights the opportunities to make memories with your family are many. 5. CONSIDER A FAMILY SABBATICAL Tired? Ready for a

reboot? Give yourselves permission to take a long holiday away from the pressures of family life as you know it. While it may take some time to lighten your economic load (cancel the cable subscription or rent your house?) and plan for such an adventure, the benefits of an extended time away with your family can pay lifelong dividends. You’ll discover the joys of relaxed afternoons at the beach, evenings around a game table or hiking on a new trail. Your children with benefit from the rare and valuable lessons learned while exploring new cultures, listening to and then learning an unfamiliar language and forging a new path. Whether your sabbatical lasts for weeks, months or a year, you’re likely to return revitalized and with a fresh perspective. – Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer.

Local travel briefs OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Skagit Guided Adventures offers a variety of tours daily in the Skagit Valley and surrounding areas. Reservations required: 360-474-7479. n Winter Birding for Kids: An “I Spy” Adventure in Skagit Valley. Saturdays and Sundays through March, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Transportation and binoculars provided. Reservations required by phone, 360-474-7479. n Hike n’ Cruise to Cypress Island, daily, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Departs from Skyline Marina, Anacortes. Kid- and dog-friendly. Reservations required. SKAGIT SENIOR TOURS: Skagit Guided Adventures offers a variety of local nature and hiking day tours for seniors. Reservations required: 360-474-7479. WHATCOM SENIOR TOURS: Sign up by calling 360-733-4030, ext. 1015, or visiting the tour office at 315 Halleck St., Bellingham. OAK HARBOR DAY TRIPS: The Oak Harbor Senior Center, 51 SE Jerome St., offers day trips for members. For details, call the travel desk at 360-279-4587. 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. 1-800-544-1800 or tourisminfo@ watourismalliance.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. 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 by appointment from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and 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. Burlington Municipal Court accepts passport applications from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 311 Cedar St., Suite A, Burlington. New and renewal forms are available. 360-755-0492. 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. 360-279-4580.

Thursday, January 2, 2020 - E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

HOT TICKETS PEARL DJANGO: Jan. 7-8, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. PETER WHITE: Jan. 9-12, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. CHRIS BOTTI: Jan. 14-16 and 17-19, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. HARRIET TUBMAN: Jan. 21-22, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. STEVE GADD BAND: Jan. 23-26, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. DERMOT KENNEDY: Jan. 26, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 360-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. PETER BERNSTEIN, LARRY GOLDINGS, BILL STEWART: Jan. 28-29, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com. SARAH MCLACHLAN: Feb. 2, Benaroya Hall, Seattle. 866-833-4747, or benaroyahall.org or livenation.com. SUPERM: Feb. 4, Accesso Showare Center, Kent. 866-973-9613 or livenation. com. REVEREND HORTON HEAT: Feb. 4-6, The Crocodile, Seattle. 206-262-0482 or elcorazonseattle.com. MARTIN TAYLOR, FRANK VIGNOLA: Feb. 4-5, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY: Feb. 6-9, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com. SONNY LANDREATH, MARCIA BALL: Feb. 1112, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or

jazzalley.com. PEE WEE HERMAN: BIG ADVENTURE: Feb. 15, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com. JACK BROADBENT: Feb. 19, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. DAVID SANBORN JAZZ QUINTET: Feb. 20-23, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com. WILLIAM DUVALL: Feb. 29, The Triple Door, Seattle. 206-838-4333 or thetripledoor.net. ”STU FOR SILVERTON”: Jan. 31-Feb. 23, 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle. 206-6251900 or 5thavenue.org. HAYLEY KIYOKO: March 8, Showbox Sodo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com. VICTOR WOOTEN: March 12-15, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com. ”SISTER ACT”: March 13-April 5, 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle. 206-625-1900 or 5thavenue.org. AMANDA SHIRES: March 20, The Crocodile, Seattle. 877-987-6487 or Eventbrite.com. BILLIE EILISH: April 10, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com. ALICE COOPER: April 20, McCaw Hall, Seattle. 844827-8118 or uniquelives. com. MILKY CHANCE: Aug. 24, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com. FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH: April 23, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

MARTIN TAYLOR With Frank Vignola,Feb. 4-5, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. STURGILL SIMPSON, TYLER CHILDERS: May 20, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com. DEAD CAN DANCE: May 3, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 360-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

CHER: May 4, Angel of The Winds Arena, Everett. 866.332.8499 or angelofthewindsarena.com. ”ONCE ON THIS ISLAND”: May 12-24, 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle. 206-625-1900 or 5thavenue.org.

APOCALYPTICA: May 14, Showbox at The Market, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or AXS.com, JOURNEY, THE PRETENDEERS: May 16, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com.

ALANIS MORISSETTE: June 3, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 800-7453000 or livenation.com. BRANDI CARLILE, SHERYL CROW, YOLA: June 6, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com. ”EVITA”: June 12-July 4, 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle. 206-625-1900 or 5thavenue.org. OZZY OSBOURNE, MARILY MANSON: July 11, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com. GREEN DAY, FALL OUT BOY, WEEZER: July 17, T-Mobile Park, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com. TAME IMPALA: Aug. 7, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com. MAROON 5: Aug. 15, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com. HARRY STYLES: Aug. 18, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800-745-3000 or livenation. com. MOTLEY CRUE, DEF LEPPARD, POISON, JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS: Sept. 2, T-Mobile Park, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com. BLACK CROWES: Sept. 4, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com. DOOBIE BROTHERS: Sept. 5, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn. 800-7453000 or livenation.com. KISS, DAVID LEE ROTH: Sept. 19, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

E12 - Thursday, January 2, 2020

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Netflix made more films than any other studio; now it wants an Oscar By LUCAS SHAW Bloomberg News

LOS ANGELES — Netflix Inc. has been making its own movies for years, but 2019 may be remembered as the year it truly became a film studio. The company began the year by joining the Motion Picture Association of America, the Hollywood trade group that represents movie studios. It went on to release nearly 60 English-language feature films over the course of 2019, including Oscar contenders “The Irishman” and “Marriage Story.” With a slate that includes its first animated feature “Klaus,” a Michael Bay action thriller and comedies like Eddie Murphy’s “Dolemite Is My Name,” Netflix has doubled or even tripled the output of Hollywood’s biggest studios. And for the first time, the company’s top executives are saying that movies will determine whether Netflix hits its financial targets in 2019. “This fall was a nice culmination,” Scott Stuber, Netflix’s film chief, said in an interview. “I’m very proud of this slate. I can look you in the eye and say we’ve made as good movies this fall as anybody.” Stuber, 51, joined Netflix in 2017 after more than two decades working in the film business — first as an executive and then a producer. Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos asked Stuber to build a movie studio from scratch, one that would rival any in Hollywood. At the time, Netflix had only released a couple dozen original movies, most

of them forgettable — like the sequel to “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and Adam Sandler’s comedy western “The Ridiculous 6.” The company had to fill its slate with projects that had been cast aside by other studios. Netflix’s one movie that delighted critics, “Beasts of No Nation,” earned no nominations at the 2016 Academy Awards — an outcome that many experts interpreted as a rebuke of the streaming company. It had resisted demands to release its movies in theaters before they appear on its service, angering cinephiles and movie-theater owners. “It was a company built on television — that was first and foremost,” said Stuber, a 6-foot-4 executive who brought a fat Rolodex to Netflix from producing movies such as “Ted,” “The Break-Up” and “Central Intelligence.” Many of his past collaborators, including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and director Peter Berg, have since signed on to make movies for Netflix. In the 2 1/2 years since Stuber took the job, Netflix has morphed into the largest movie studio in Hollywood, at least in terms of volume. The company plans to release 50 to 60 films a year, and that doesn’t include projects born out of other divisions, such as “El Camino,” a spinoff movie from the TV show “Breaking Bad.” The company has scored both critical and commercial hits. “Bird Box” and “Murder Mystery” were viewed by more than 70 million people apiece in their first month on the service, according to the company, while “Triple

NETFLIX VIA TNS

Al Pacino stars as Jimmy Hoffa in “The Irishman.”

Frontier” and “The Highwaymen” both eclipsed 40 million viewers. Six of the 10 most-watched new titles on the service in the U.S. in 2019 were original films. Still, it’s hard to measure Netflix’s success. The company is selective in what viewer information it releases and there’s no reliable third-party data source. So it’s all but impossible to verify how any one Netflix project fared. The company points to its continued subscriber growth as evidence of success, but critics note that Netflix still borrows money to fund its productions. Two facts seem clear, though. First, Netflix found a sweet spot making the kinds of movies other studios have abandoned: adult dramas, romantic comedies and action movies without superheroes. Rom-coms like “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” and “Always Be My Maybe” don’t have the global

appeal of “The Avengers,” but they are infinitely rewatchable at home. The sequel to “All the Boys” is on the slate in 2020, along with movies from George Clooney, Spike Lee and Ryan Murphy, creator of “American Horror Story.” Second, the industry no longer views Netflix as an outsider. Filmmakers Alfonso Cuaron, Martin Scorsese and Noah Baumbach — all staunch defenders of classic cinema — have turned to Netflix to get their movies made. And the voters for the Academy Awards have come around, nominating Netflix for 15 Oscars last year, including its first for best picture, best director, best actress and best screenplay. The company didn’t win the best-picture statuette, but took home its first prizes for something other than a documentary. “When I saw Ted Sarandos after the Oscars, I said, ‘You did it, you got over the hump,’” said

John Sloss, who produced “Green Book,” last year’s winner for best picture. In other words, the Academy is ready — when the film is right — to give Netflix its top prize. That could be as soon as 2020. Netflix has two of the five movies with the best odds, according to Gold Derby, a site devoted to predicting entertainment awards. They include the current front-runner, Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman.” The nominations will be announced Jan. 13. The New York film critics named that movie the year’s best, and Netflix earned the most Golden Globe nominations of any studio in both film and television. But this year has been a particularly strong one for movies, and there is no one leader. Los Angeles film critics named Bong Joon-Ho’s “Parasite” the year’s best, while Sam Mendes’s “1917” has earned ecstatic reviews.

Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood” could finally earn the filmmaker his first Oscar for best director. The only group that hasn’t embraced Netflix yet is theater owners. Though Netflix has relaxed its policy on theaters — allowing movies to appear on the big screen for as long as a month before they migrate to the streaming service — that hasn’t appeased the world’s largest cinema chains. They still refuse to show the service’s movies. But many movie studios, including Warner Bros. and Universal Pictures, want to get their movies online sooner, too. And many companies, including Walt Disney Co., are making movies that won’t appear in theaters at all. “It’s not a Netflix-versus-theater thing,” Stuber said. “The entire film business has to figure out the right distribution model that helps everyone.”

Thursday, January 2, 2020 - E13

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Space Trek 2020 presents out-of-this-world improv

AT THE LINCOLN

By Skagit Valley Herald staff

BELLINGHAM — A fan-favorite improv show has returned to this galaxy for January. Hop aboard the USS Upfront for a sci-fi show like none other at “Space Trek 2020” at the Upfront Theatre, 1208 Bay St., Bellingham. At 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday of this month, improvisors will craft an original adventure through space with inspiration taken

THE UPFRONT THEATRE

from audience suggestions. Tickets are $12 at theupfront.com.

Coming Up:

Enjoy the Playoff Season! Viewing Party

Family Friendly

SEAHAWKS

FOCUS FEATURES

“Harriet” plays Friday, Sunday and Monday at the Lincoln Theatre.

FRI. 1/3 7:30PM BADD DOG BLUES SOCIETY WEDS. 1/15 6PM EL COLONEL

WEDS. 1/8 6PM BLUES UNION

1976676 1933806 1625562

7:30 P.M. FRIDAY, JAN. 3 5:30 P.M. SUNDAY, JAN. 5 7:30 P.M. MONDAY, JAN. 6 Based on the life of an iconic American freedom fighter, “Harriet” tells the tale of Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes. Her courage, ingenuity, and tenacity freed hundreds of slaves and changed the course of history. Starring Cynthia Erivo, Leslie Odom Jr. and Janelle Monàe. Rated PG-13. $10.50 general; $9.50 seniors, students and active military; $8 ages 12 and under. Sunday bargain prices: $9 general; $7.50 ages 12 and under.

SAT. 1/18 7:30PM SCRATCH DADDY

360-588-1720 anacortesrockfish.com

320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes

360.466.4411

1976639

‘Harriet’

Fresh Local Strawberries Shortcake SEAHAWKS vs Eagles Pies Sunday, 1:40 pm Waffles Pancakes Happy Hour, drink and appetizer Milkduring Shakes specials the game -MORE1585064 1474688

La Conner Whitney Rd. & Hwy. 20

Local Food, Local Beer, Made Here

4 P.M. SATURDAY, JAN. 4 Come mingle and enjoy a night of musical fun, treats and local art. The event benefits Madre Assunta Shelter for Women and Children, and Al Otro Lado Legal Services in Tijuana, Mexico. Musical guests include: 5:30 p.m.: Los Solecitos, Mexican folk dance. 7:15 p.m.: Nick Vigarino, veteran blues slide guitar player. 8:30 p.m.: Sky Colony, Americana/folk ensemble. Hosted by Seattle DJ John Maynard. $20; VIP tickets in the first two rows $35. — The Lincoln Theatre is located at 712 S. First St., downtown Mount Vernon. lincolntheatre.org or 360-336-8955.

A Skagit Valley Favorite 20 Years Running 320 Commercial Ave, Anacortes

1973086

Gimme Shelter: A Solidarity Shindig

E14 - Thursday, January 2, 2020

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES

NEW THIS WEEK

MINI REVIEWS

Prison drama explores morality of death penalty

SUNDANCE INSTITUTE VIA TNS

Alfre Woodard (right) and Alex Castillo appear in a scene from “Clemency.”

By RAFER GUZMÁN Newsday

Talk about a tough sell. “Clemency,” which explores the morality of the death penalty, arrives just as families flock to theaters for crowd-pleasing comedies, action flicks and period pieces. This movie is clearly none of those. But if you have the fortitude for a cleareyed, challenging drama driven by two powerful performances, you’ll find “Clemency” a rewarding experience. Its story is built around two figures at opposite ends of a death sentence. One is Bernadine Williams, a prison warden facing her 12th execu-

tion. Played by a raw and riveting Alfre Woodard, Bernadine is a steelspined professional who appears to be unraveling. The botched execution of Victor Jimenez — staged in an excruciating opening scene — is haunting her. Plagued by nightmares and fearful of intimacy with her husband, Jonathan (a deeply empathetic Wendell Pierce), Bernadine finds solace in easy, boozy banter with colleagues at the local bar. Her next execution — barring a reprieve from the governor’s office — will be Anthony Woods (Aldis Hodge, “Brian Banks”). Woods may be mentally impaired; he also seems to be going crazy.

Banging his head on a wall in an effort to kill himself (“I say when I die,” he screams) and grasping at the thinnest straws of hope, Woods is a man trapped in a nightmare. Hodge plays him with a wrenching combination of dignity and desperation. Bernadine isn’t sure she can kill this man. Woods’ lawyer, Marty (a brief but moving Richard Schiff), hounds her like a guilty conscience, while the parents of Woods’ alleged victim symbolize her legal duty. Protesters gather outside her walls, stirring emotions she’d rather not have. As film’s clock ticks down, writer-director Chinonye Chukwu puts us in the shoes of both prisoner

and executioner. Chukwu, a Nigeria-born, Alaska-raised filmmaker with a background in prison activism, slightly skews her case. Her film suggests, but never proves, that both Jimenez and Woods are innocent. That feels a little too easy. Chukwu might have put her audience to an even tougher test by establishing the prisoners’ guilt. “Clemency” ends with Bernadine drawing a very deep breath — the kind you take after you’ve been through something difficult or traumatic. You’ll know just how she feels. – 1:52. Rated R (death and adult themes). HHH (out of four stars)

Compiled from news services. Ratings are 1 to 4 stars.

“Spies in Disguise” — This computer-animated adventure benefits from the expert comic timing of Will Smith, providing the voice of a super spy accidentally transformed into a pigeon and forced to team up with a socially awkward tech genius (Tom Holland). It’s terrific family entertainment, popping with bright colors. Animated action, PG, 101 minutes. HHH “1917” — With brilliant, claustrophobically effective directing choices by Sam Mendes and strong, raw performances from young leads Dean-Charles Chapman and George MacKay, this heart-stopping World War I drama is a unique viewing experience you won’t soon shake off. War action, R, 119 minutes. HHHH “Uncut Gems” — In one of the most authentic deep dives into the world of the gambling addict ever put on film, Adam Sandler’s performance as a New York jeweler with a variety of voracious appetites might just be the best dramatic performance by an actor in all of 2019. Crime comedy, R, 135 minutes. HHHH “Little Women” — Through the prism of the blazingly talented writer-director Greta Gerwig, it’s as if we’re meeting the March sisters for the very first time, and we’re immediately swept away in a gorgeously filmed, wickedly funny, deeply moving and, yes, empowering story. Drama, PG, 135 minutes. HHHH “Cats” — Despite the elaborate production design and the earnest efforts of Jennifer Hudson, Ian McKellen and the rest of the big-name talent — transformed into singing felines with creepy “digital fur technology” — this adaptation of the stage musical is a slick and tedious and weird-looking exercise in self-indulgence. Musical fantasy, PG, 109 minutes. H½ “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” — Action-filled and plot-packed, Episode IX of the space opera saga features a twist and turn and surprise around nearly every corner. It rarely comes close to touching greatness, but it’s a solid, visually dazzling and warm-hearted victory for the Force of quality filmmaking. Fantasy adventure, PG-13, 141 minutes. HHH “A Hidden Life” — In 1940s Austria, a farmer is jailed for refusing to sign a loyalty oath to Hitler, as his wife and children suffer without him. This is a Terrence Malick film, so you can count on feeling dazzled by spectacular shots of heaven on Earth, and impatient at the sheer overpowering deliberateness of it all. Historical drama, PG-13, 180 minutes. HHH “Jumanji: The Next Level” — Like 2017’s “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle,” this rousing, funny, warm-hearted, old-fashioned adventure movie puts high school students into video game avatars that look like Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart and others. There’s more than enough charm to overcome the occasional overlong action sequence. Action adventure, PG-13, 123 minutes. HHH “Richard Jewell” — The latest economically filmed, well-crafted gem from Clint Eastwood recalls the cop wannabe who was proven innocent after being named as the prime suspect in the 1996 Olympics bombing in Atlanta. Paul Walter Hauser delivers screen-commanding work as the title character. Historical drama, R, 130 minutes. HHH½

Thursday, January 2, 2020 - E15

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES

Female-led films among 2020’s most anticipated By NARDINE SAAD Los Angeles Times

The future is female … at least when it comes to the cineplex. For the first time, four films starring and directed by women — “Wonder Woman 1984,” Marvel’s “Black Widow” and “Eternals” and Disney’s live-action “Mulan” — topped a Fandango audience survey of the most anticipated movies of the new year, the film hub announced. The movies, helmed by Patty Jenkins, Cate Shortland, Chloe Zhao and Niki Caro, respectively, were selected in an online survey conducted in the last weeks of this month. More than 2,000 millennial film fans cast their votes for the top movies and performances they were most looking forward to seeing on the big screen in 2020. Rounding out the top 10 are a bevy of sequels, spin-offs and adapta-

tions, including the next James Bond installment (“No Time to Die”), John Krasinski’s “A Quiet Place II,” the female superhero team-up flick “Birds of Prey,” the musical “In the Heights,” Pixar’s animated film “Soul” and the ninth chapter of the “Fast & Furious” franchise. “Soul,” about a middle-school music teacher who dreams of playing at a New York jazz club, appears to be the only original fare. But it’s the “Wonder Woman” sequel that fans seem particularly stoked about, topping the most anticipated actress (Gal Gadot), actor (Chris Pine) and villain (Kristen Wiig) categories as well. Here’s how those four films fared and the other releases moviegoers can expect in the new year: MOST ANTICIPATED MOVIE n “Wonder Woman 1984” (directed by Patty Jenkins; release date:

“Knives and Skin” — When a teen disappears in a seemingly quiet Midwestern town, reactions range from the strange and disturbing to the REALLY strange and disturbing in this cool and badass and blazingly original social satire/horror thriller. Rating: Thriller, no MPAA rating, 112 minutes. HHH½ “The Two Popes” — With Anthony Hopkins portraying Pope Benedict XVI and Jonathan Pryce as the cardinal who would become Pope Francis, we have the privilege of seeing two of the world’s

MOST ANTICIPATED ACTRESS n Gal Gadot (“Wonder Woman 1984”) n Scarlett Johansson (“Black Widow”) n Emily Blunt (“A Quiet Place Part II,” “Jungle Cruise”) n Margot Robbie (“Birds of Prey”) n Zendaya (“Dune”)

WARNER BROS.

Gal Gadot returns in “Wonder Woman 1984.”

June 5) n “Black Widow” (Cate Shortland, May 1) n Marvel’s “Eternals” (Chloe Zhao, Nov. 6) n “Mulan” (Niki Caro, March 27) n “No Time to Die” (Cary Joji Fukunaga, April 10) n “A Quiet Place Part

finest actors sinking their chops into rich albeit sometimes overly fanciful dialogue. But with an overlong running time, “The Two Popes” is the kind of wellmade but flawed release you can wait to catch on home video. Biography, PG-13, 125 minutes. HH½ “A Million Little Pieces” — There’s nothing Hollywood or glamorous about Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s work as self-destructive, hardcore addict James Frey. This is an effective blunt instrument of a film — a rough-edged, unvarnished,

II” (John Krasinski, March 20) n “Birds of Prey” (Cathy Yan, Feb. 7) n “In the Heights” (Jon M. Chu, June 26) n Pixar’s “Soul” (Pete Docter and Kemp Powers, June 19) n “Fast & Furious 9” (Justin Lin, May 22)

painfully accurate portrayal of addiction and rehabilitation. Drama, R, 113 minutes. HHH “The Aeronauts” — This rousing and (frostbitten) knuckle-biting adventure reteams Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones (“The Theory of Everything”) for a historic 1862 quest in a hot air balloon to ascend higher than any man or woman had flown up to that moment. The fact-based fairy tale has a distinctly old-fashioned, Saturday afternoon movie vibe. Historical adventure, PG-13, 101 minutes. HHH

MOST ANTICIPATED ACTOR n Chris Pine (“Wonder Woman 1984”) n Paul Rudd (“Ghostbusters: Afterlife”) n Ryan Reynolds (“Free Guy”) n Daniel Craig (“No Time to Die”) n Robert Downey Jr. (“Dolittle”) MOST ANTICIPATED VILLAIN n Kristen Wiig as Cheetah (“Wonder Woman 1984”) n Rami Malek as Safin (“No Time to Die”) n Ewan McGregor as Black Mask (“Birds of Prey”)

n Jim Carrey as Dr. Ivo Robotnik (“Sonic the Hedgehog”) n Charlize Theron as Cipher (“Fast & Furious 9”) MOST ANTICIPATED FAMILY FILM: n “Mulan” n Pixar’s “Soul” n “Sonic the Hedgehog” n “Dolittle” n “Jungle Cruise” MOST ANTICIPATED HORROR FILM n “A Quiet Place Part II” n “Halloween Kills” n “The Invisible Man” n “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” n “The Grudge” MOST ANTICIPATED LIVE-ACTION COMEDY n “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” n “Bill & Ted Face the Music” n “Bad Boys For Life” n “Legally Blonde 3” n “The Lovebirds”

At area theaters CONCRETE THEATER Jan. 3-5 Star Wars: The Rise of the Skywalker (PG-13): Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: 5 and 8 p.m.; Sunday: 5 p.m. 360-941-0403 ANACORTES CINEMAS 360-293-7000 STANWOOD CINEMAS 360-629-0514

BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Oak Harbor Jan. 3-5 Frozen 2 (PG), Star Wars: The Rise of the Skywalker (PG-13). First movie starts at 6 p.m. 360-675-5667 CASCADE MALL CINEMAS Burlington 360-707-2727

E16 - Thursday, January 2, 2020

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

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