360 January 7, 2016

META PRESENTS LEGENDARY MUSICAL AT THE LINCOLN Page 4

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday January 7, 2016

Tuning Up

THIS WEEKEND Three new exhibitions open on Saturday at the Museum of Northwest Art PAGE 3

Jeremy Pelt’s Power Quintet plays The Majestic tonight in Bellingham PAGE 9

MOVIES “The Revenant” a portrait of nature and man at their most unrelenting, unforgiving PAGE 14

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, January 7, 2016

SKAGITVISITOR

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

A resource visitors & newcomers Tuning Upfor/ Page 9

A resource for visitors and newcomers.

Events & Activities Community Profiles & Maps Recreation

Swingnuts Jazz plays Angel of the Winds Casino in Arlington on Monday

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

Smartphone scan code

Visit www.skagitvisitor.com

Out & About ....................................5-6 Hot Tickets ......................................... 7 On Stage, Tuning Up .......................8-9 Get Involved ................................10-11 Travel ............................................... 12 New on DVD..................................... 13 Movies .........................................14-15 ON THE COVER

Blake Goetsch (left) plays Carbucketty and Lauren Cline is Demeter in the META Performing Arts’ production of “Cats,” which opens Friday at the Lincoln Theatre in downtown Mount Vernon.

Craig Parrish / Skagit Valley Herald

Mailing address P.O. Box 578 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Online events calendar To list your event on our website, visit goskagit.com and look for the Events Calendar on the home page HAVE A STORY IDEA? Contact Features Editor Craig Parrish at 360-416-2135 or features@skagitpublishing.com TO ADVERTISE 360-424-3251

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 7, 2016 - E3

THIS WEEKENDin the area PHILOSOPHY IN CINEMA “Seriously Funny: Humor, Film and Philosophy”: Enjoy a conversation with Everett Community College philosophy instructor Mike VanQuickenborne at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. 360-299-0415 or benmcbroom@ yahoo.com.

BALD EAGLE INTERPRETIVE CENTER The Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends during January at Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52809 Rockport Park Road, Rockport.

Guided hikes are offered at 11 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday, with special presentations at 1 p.m. most Saturdays. Next up: Jan. 9: Hiking in the Skagit Valley: Presentation followed by a hike with outdoor writer Craig Romano.

FRIENDS OF THE FOREST HIKES Join Friends

Northwest art Three new exhibitions will open with a reception at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, and continue 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.

“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. Her cameo glass engravings on layered-glass panels depict her experiences and

impressions of the Antarctic and the work happening there.

“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. The exhibit also 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, 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,

of the Forest for scenic hikes in the forest lands around Anacortes. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. No pets.

Free. 360-293-3725 or friendsoftheacfl.org.

Next up:

Ann Chadwick Reid, Eve Deisher, Lori Goodman, Leslie Kenneth Price, Julie McNiel, Allen Moe and Emily Silver. An artist walk-through will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9.

“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.” A book signing will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9.

Senior/Adult Hike: Double Watershed Tour: 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Jan. 8. Meet at the end of 32nd Street, off D Avenue. This gentle 1 1/2-mile route passes through varied forest and wetland habitats. Learn about the beaver that maintain the wetlands and see a variety of winter waterfowl.

SWEDISH FIRE LOG Learn how to make and burn a “Swedish Fire Log” at 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8, at Rockport State Park, 51095 Highway 20, Rockport. German exchange intern Christian Boland will demonstrate how to make a Swedish fire log (also known as a Swedish torch or candle) at the park picnic shelter. Hot chocolate and tea will be served.

Bring your own marshmallows. Dress for the weather. Free with Discover Pass. 360-8538461.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, January 7, 2016

ON STAGE

Singing, dancing ‘Cats’ at the Lincoln Emmaline Gates (from left) plays Bombalurina, Lauren Cline is Demeter and Lacy Craig is Jellyorum in the META Performing Arts’ production of “Cats,” which opens Friday at the Lincoln Theatre.

Photos by Craig Parrish Skagit Valley Herald

Skagit Valley Herald staff

‘Cats’

A local theater group continues the long When: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 8-9, 15-16, local tradition of ambitious productions as 20-23; 2 p.m. Jan. 10 META Performing Arts presents “Cats” at the Where: Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First Lincoln Theatre in downtown Mount Vernon.

St., Mount Vernon Tickets: $24, $22, $20, $18.

The show, directed by Y’Hon Frakes with 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org. musical direction by T.J. Anderson, features a cast of 28, according to assistant director Lind- (Wednesday, Jan. 20 is Bargain Night: Pay what you can, suggested $10. sey Bowen.

Tickets available two hours prior to Rehearsals began four months ago, as performance only.)

META follows its equally dauntingly productions of “Pan The Musical” and “Romeo and Juliet.”

With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the first performance of “Cats” was in 1981 in London. It soon become an international phenomenon, is the fourth-longest running show in Broadway history, and has been translated into approximately 20 languages.

The production is a constant whirlwind of music and dance, highlighted by songs like “Memory,” “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” and “The Rum Tum Tugger.”

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 7, 2016 - E5

OUT & ABOUT ART 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. n An artist talk will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9.

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 WascherJames and Colleen Wootton.

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.

WINTER FILM SERIES

Enjoy free film screenings at 7 p.m. Fridays at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. “The Impossible” (pictured), will be shown Jan. 15. The film stars Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor as tourists in Thailand when the deadly 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami strikes. Films will be introduced by Movie Man Nick Alphin. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityofanacortes.org.

the landscapes of central Whidbey and Olympic National Park, two places she spends cherished time. n Ellen Jane Michael focuses on the tactile beauty that can be found in simple materials. By deconstructing one’s concept of a paperback book’s structure, text and meaning, she reconstructs a new narrative that questions the effects of the pulp paper industry on the environment, culture and consumerism. n Michelle Schutte WOMEN ARTISTS: Patty works in a variety of media to explore her longtime Haller, Michelle Schutte affinity for the dark and and Ellen Jane Michael are featured in a new show expressive in life and art.

Most recently, she employs running through Jan. 31 at Smith & Vallee Gallery, gray-scale paintings of ani5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison. mals to investigate specifically human problems.

A reception for the artists The gallery is open from will be held from 5 to 8 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 360p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9.

766-6230 or smithand n Patty Haller’s oil vallee.com. paintings are inspired by

MEMBERS’ SHOW: Allied Arts of Whatcom County’s annual Members’ Show will open with a reception from 6 to 9 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 8, and continue through Jan. 31, at the Allied Arts Gallery, 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham. The show features work from nearly 100 Allied Arts members, including professional artists, students and new or emerging artists. Works presented range from traditional paintings to photography to contemporary sculptures and everything in between.

Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m.

Saturday. 360-676-8548 or alliedarts.org.

“POPTICS”: A show of acrylic paintings by Bellingham artist Rob Gischer will open with a reception from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8, and continue through Jan. 30, at

Fourth Corner Frames, 311 W. Holly St., Bellingham.

“Poptics” is the new word chosen to describe the fusion of color, line, optical illusion and geometry Gischer has meshed into each of his paintings. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Monday through Saturday.

360-734-1340 or fourth corneframes.com.

NORTHWEST ART: A trio of new exhibitions will open with a reception at 2 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 9, and continue 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 monamu seum.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. An artist walkthrough will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9. n “Appassionata: The Art of Jacqueline Barnett 19902015”: 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. A book signing will be held from 2 to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 9.

ACRYLIC PAINTINGS: A show of new acrylic paintings by Jennifer Bowman will continue through Jan. 26, at Scott Milo Gallery, 420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

Also showing are acrylics by Cynthia Richardson, oils by Sandy Byers, photographs

by Lewis Jones and Randy Dana and pastels by Barbara Benedetti Newton, as well as new tables and baskets by Lanny Bergner and new tables by Gary Leake.

Gallery hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday or by appointment.

360-293-6938 or scottmilo. com.

PLAYS 48-HOUR THEATER FEST: iDiOM Theater will present its 44th 48-Hour Theater Festival, with performances at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 2-3, at 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham. The festival features six randomly-drawn teams of writers, directors and actors writing, memorizing, rehearsing and performing six new plays on a theme within 24 hours, then reshuffling and repeating the process a second day. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at door, available at idiomthe ater.com.

COMEDY IN THE COUNTY: ALTA presents the comedy “Father’s Been to Mars”

by William Dalzell & Newt Mitzman from Jan. 29 to Feb. 14 at the Alger Community Church, on Old Highway 99, one-quarter mile north of Alger, Exit 240 (1475 Silver Run Lane, Bellingham).

Dessert performances are at 7 p.m. on Jan. 29-30, and Feb. 5-6 and 12-13. Matinees are at 2:30 p.m. Jan. 31 and Feb. 14. altatheatre.com or 360424-5144 or redemaster@ comcast.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, January 7, 2016

OUT & ABOUT LECTURES AND TALKS

90.1 FM (Hamilton), KMRE 102.3 FM (Bellingham) and KSJU 91.9 FM (Friday HarPHILOSOPHY IN CINbor). speakupspeakoutradio.

EMA: “Seriously Funny: org.

Humor, Film and Philoson Sunday, Jan. 10: Host phy”: Enjoy an engaging Clint Weckerly will interview conversation with Everett Dave Hedlin, local farmer Community College phiand owner of Hedlin Farms. losophy instructor Mike Four generations of the VanQuickenborne at 7 Hedlin family have farmed p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at the in Skagit Valley for more Anacortes Public Library, than 100 years.

1220 10th St., Anacortes. n “We Do The Work,” a Presented by the Anacortes half-hour weekly radio show chapter of the Socrates Café dedicated to the well-being and Humanities Washington. of all workers, broadcasts at 360-299-0415 or benmcb 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays on KSVR room@yahoo.com.

91.7 FM and KSVU 90.1 FM, and again at 8:30 a.m.

LOCAL RADIO: “Speak Fridays on KSVU. For inforUp! Speak Out!,” a halfmation, email ksvrwedothe hour weekly show commitwork@gmail.com. ted to community, peace, justice and non-violence issues “WAR ON WOMEN II”: broadcasts at 5 p.m. Wednes- Mt. Baker Planned Parentdays and 8 p.m. Sundays on hood External Affairs DirecSkagit Valley Community tor Christina Kobdish and Radio Station KSVR 91.7 Public Policy Field Director FM (Mount Vernon), KSVU Nilofar Ganjaie will be the guest speakers at the Fidalgo Democrats meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 12, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. A moderated discussion will follow. For information, call 360-293-7114.

AURELIO MARTINEZ MUSIC FROM HONDURAS JANUARY 30 FAMILY CONCERT SKAGIT SYMPHONY JANUARY 31 TURTLE ISLAND QUARTET FEBRUARY 12

360.416.7727

mcintyrehall.org

“BREATHE... JUST BREATHE”: Kate Morgan will share her inspiring story of recovery at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

When addiction invaded her life almost two decades ago, Morgan’s world was thrown into a storm of chaos, heartbreak and grief. But as she dealt with her anger and shock, bit by tiny bit, Katie began to feel okay — not healed, but better. The life she’d grieved (and thought she’d never get over) was in her past. Free. 360-464-2229 or anacortescenterforhappi ness.org.

POETIC CLIMATE CHANGE: Friends of Skagit

SKAGIT EAGLE FESTIVAL The 2016 Skagit Eagle Festival takes place every weekend during January, in and around Concrete, Rockport and Marblemount. Enjoy indoor and outdoor activities including eagle watching, free tours, walks and educational programs, arts and crafts, river rafting, music, hayrides and more. Bring your camera and dress for unpredictable January weather.

For the latest information, contact the Concrete Chamber of Commerce at 360-853-8784 or visit skagiteagle festival.com.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, JAN. 9-10 n EAGLE FESTIVAL INFORMATION: Get free maps and visitor information from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Concrete Center, 45821 Railroad St., Concrete.

360-853-8784. n EAGLE INTERPRETIVE CENTER: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center, Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52809 Rockport Park Road, Rockport. Learn about eagles, watershed issues and local natural and cultural history through guided walks and presentations. Free admission. Donations appreciated.

360-853-7626 or skagiteagle.org. n EAGLE WATCHER STATIONS: Staffed by volunteers from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Howard Miller Steelhead Park in Rockport, Sutter Creek at milepost 100 and at the Marblemount Fish Hatchery, 8319 Fish Hatchery Road. Scopes and binoculars available. Free. 360-854-2617. n DEEP FOREST TOURS & DIS-

Beaches will present “Climate Change in Haiku” from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at the Northwest Educational Service District. Bldg., 1601 R Ave., Anacortes. In 2014 the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a major 2,000-page report.

Dr. Gregory Johnson, Ph.D, University of Washington School of Oceanography, has distilled the entire report into 19 illustrated haiku. Although his result is a work of art, it provides a powerful visual guide to the information covered in the document. Free. skagit beaches.org.

COVERY CENTER: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rockport State Park, 51095 Highway 20, Rockport. Enjoy a 30- to 60-minute tour deep into some of the 670 acres of old-growth forest at Rockport State Park at the foot of Sauk Mountain. Kids can explore the Discovery Center with crafts, interactive wildlife displays, books and games. Free. Discover Pass or $10 day use fee required to access the park. 360-853-8461 or rockport@ parks.wa.gov. n DRIFTBOAT EAGLE EXCURSIONS: Skagit River Guide Service offers a three-hour tour in heated driftboats at 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52921 Rockport Park Road, Rockport. $75, $55 ages 5 and younger. Reservations required: 888-675-2448 or skagiteagles.com. n NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY, STORYTELLING, MUSIC & MORE: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Marblemount Community Hall, 60055 Highway 20, Marblemount. Free admission. Donations appreciated. 360-770-3173. w 11 a.m. “Saga of the Sockeye Salmon” puppet show. w Noon to 2 p.m. Tribal speakers, storytelling and drumming. w 3 p.m. Native American flutist Peter Ali. w 4 p.m. Blackfoot singer/songwriter JP Falcon Grady. w Local Native arts and crafts vendors and fry bread tacos all day.

SATURDAY, JAN. 9, ONLY n LITTLE EAGLET STORY TIME: 11 to 11:45 a.m. at the Upper Skagit Library, 45770B Main St., Concrete.

Families with young children are invited to learn about eagles and other

MARITIME SPEAKER SERIES: “Crazy Things That Happen On The Water”: with Capt. Richard Rodriguez: 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Rodriquez offers a maritime potpourri including understanding salvage law, misconceptions about rules of the road and “Confessions of a Delivery Captain.” Free. 360-293-1910, ext.

21, or library.cityofanacortes. org.

wildlife through stories, songs and a simple craft. Free. 360-853-7939 or upperskagit.lib.wa.us. n HIKING IN THE SKAGIT VALLEY: Outdoor writer Craig Romano will offer a free presentation at 1 p.m. followed by a hike at the Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center, Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52809 Rockport Park Road, Rockport. skagiteagle.org. n PHOTO WORKSHOP: “Focusing on Birds”: 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete. Learn how to locate and photograph the migratory birds of the Skagit Valley with instructor Karen Ulvestad. Free admission. Concessions will be available for purchase.

360-466-8754 or concrete-wa.com. n WILDLIFE HAYRIDE AND CAMPFIRE: 3 p.m. at Double O Ranch, 46276 Concrete-Sauk Valley Road, Concrete. Take a hayride through 250 acres of timber, pasture and Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) project. See eagles, deer, elk and more. Learn about conservation projects, selective timber harvesting and wildlife enhancement.

Then enjoy cookies and hot drinks by the fire, children’s games and ranch history display. Activities are weatherdependent. Free. No pets. 360-8538494 or ovenells-inn.com.

SUNDAY, JAN. 10, ONLY n BRUNCH & ENTERTAINMENT: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5b’s Bakery, 45597 Main St., Concrete. Come in from the cold and enjoy music by Kitchen Sync and Not Bad For Neighbors during Sunday brunch. Coloring and learning activities for all. Free admission. 360-853-8700 or 5bsbak ery.com.

pher Lance Ekhart focuses on local great blue herons with an intimate look at the amazing activity within nearby heronries. Free. 360293-1910, ext. 21, or library. cityofanacortes.org.

and children ages 6-12, $10 families. Free for members and ages 5 and younger. 360466-3365 or skagitcounty. net/museum.

WINTER FILM SERIES: Enjoy free film screenings at 7 p.m. Fridays at the AnaMORE FUN cortes Public Library, 1220 TEMPORARY CLOSURE 10th St., Anacortes. Films FOR MUSEUM: The Skagit will be introduced by Movie County Historical Museum, Man Nick Alphin. Free. 360501 S. Fourth St., La Con293-1910, ext. 21, or library. ner, will be closed during cityofanacortes.org. Next up: January to complete some n Jan. 8: “Gigi” (romantic special projects. Check out musical comedy): Leslie Jack Gunter’s exhibit, “The “THE EYE OF THE Caron, Louis Jourdan and HERON”: 7 p.m. Wednesday, History of Mount Vernon,” Maurice Chevalier star in opening with a reception at 6 this delightful Cinderella Jan. 20, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4. Admis- story set in early 1900s Paris.

Anacortes. Nature photogra- sion: $5 adults, $4 seniors Not rated.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 7, 2016 - E7

HOT TICKETS G-EAZY: Jan 7, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com.

FOREVERLAND (Tribute to Michael Jackson): Jan. 9, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

JANET JACKSON: Jan. 13, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-7453000 or Livenation.com.

BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS: Jan. 14, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

PINK MARTINI: Jan. 16, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

TRIBAL SEEDS: Jan. 21, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

SUPER DIAMOND (Tribute to Neil Diamond): Jan. 22, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

STS9: Jan. 23, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

NEVER SHOUT NEVER: Jan. 26, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

“FLASHDANCE: THE MUSICAL”: Jan. 27, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham.

360-734-6080 or mountbak ertheatre.com.

PAULA POUNDSTONE: Jan. 29, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT: Jan. 31, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

WARBRINGER, ENFORCER, EXMORTUS: Jan. 31, Studio Seven, Seattle. 206286-1312 or studioseven.us.

LETTUCE: Feb. 4, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

COCO MONTOYA: Feb. 5, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

BUILT TO SPILL: Feb. 5-6, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

BLACK SABBATH: Feb. 6, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800745-3000 or Livenation.com.

BRIAN REGAN: Feb. 11, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

GRACE POTTER: Feb. 13, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

BRIAN REGAN Feb. 11, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

BRAD PAISLEY: Feb. 13, Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. 800745-3000 or Livenation.com.

INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS: Feb. 18, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BORGEOUS & MORGAN PAGE: Feb. 20, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

TAKE 6: Feb. 20, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham.

360-734-6080 or mountbak ertheatre.com.

CRADLE OF FILTH: Feb. 23, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showbox online.com.

GALACTIC: Feb. 26, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

BARCELONA: Feb. 26, The Crocodile, Seattle. 877-9876487 or thecrocodile.com.

GINO VANNELLI: Feb. 26-27, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-275-2448 or theskagit.com.

PAPADOSIO: Feb. 27, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

KEYS N KRATES: Feb. 28, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

ST. LUCIA: March 2, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

MARCHFOURTH! MARCHING BAND: March 5, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

HELLOWEEN: March 6, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

AOIFE O’DONOVAN: March 6, Columbia City Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or Livenation.com.

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

MUTEMATH: March 8, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

DISTURBED: March 12, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

SOLAS: March 17, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham.

360-734-6080 or mountbak ertheatre.com.

CRAIG FERGUSON: March 18, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

DAUGHTER: March 19, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

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

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA: March 20, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360734-6080 or mountbaker theatre.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. n For complete listings, visit goskagit.com and click on “Entertainment”

E8 Thursday, January 7, 2016

Thursday, January 7, 2016 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area January 8-16

TUNING UP Playing at area venues January 7-14 THURSDAY.7

FRIDAY-SUNDAY.8-10 FRIDAY-SATURDAY.15-16

THURSDAY.7

Square dancing, with One-Eyed Cat: 7 to 9 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Loft, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5. 360-445-3000.

“CATS” META Performing Arts, Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org. Check individual listings for times.

JEREMY PELT’S POWER QUINTET 8 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham. $20, $10 students and WJMAC members.

206-612-5967.

Marlaina and Zach Broocke: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5. 360445-3000.

Animals of Grace: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360399-1805.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

MONDAY.11 SWINGNUTS JAZZ 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Angel of the Winds Casino, 3438 Stoluckquamish Lane, Arlington. No cover. 360-474-9740.

Jeremy Pelt’s Power Quintet (jazz): 8 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham. $20, $10 students and WJMAC members. 206612-5967.

FRIDAY.8 MuseBird Café: Allison Preisinger, Tekla Waterfield and Jessa Young, 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

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

Friday Swing, with Duane Melcher and Ken Vanderhyde (’30s, ’40s & ’50s classic tunes): 7 to 9 p.m., North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. No cover.

360-707-2683.

Kristie DeVries: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Radio 80 (‘80s pop and new wave): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-2752448.

Cee Cee James: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360588-1720.

Comedy and music: Joey Cruz, Evelyn Jensen, Eric Alexander Moore, Aaron Fishbein and others; music

by Undead Sex, Downers Grove: 8:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. Free.

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

J.P. Falcon and guests: 8 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360766-6330.

SATURDAY.9 Lindsey Bowen photo

Friday.8

Sunday.10

Friday.15

THEATER

THEATER

THEATER

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Saturday.9 THEATER

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 2 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

MUSIC

Jazz at the Library: Swingnuts Jazz, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Free.

360-293-1910.

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Saturday.16 THEATER

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

The United Notions (jazz): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5. 360-4453000.

Chris Eger Band: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon.

360-422-6411.

SUNDAY.10 Country Dave: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Radio 80 (‘80s pop and new wave): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover.

MONDAY.11 Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-445-4733.

Swingnuts Jazz: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Angel of the Winds Casino, 3438 Stoluckquamish Lane, Arlington. No cover. 360474-9740.

Levi Burkle: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Nashville Northwest: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

WEDNESDAY.13 Stilly River Band: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360588-1720.

Troy Fair Band: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

Ibex, Fang Chia, Hippopotamus Hot Tub: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6. 360-778-1067.

The Sardines: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6330.

THURSDAY.14 Steve Davis: 8 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham. $20, $10 students and WJMAC members. 206-612-5967.

MuseBird Café: Mark Clawson, Wayne Lovegrove and Volkert Volkersz, 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10.

360-445-3000.

No Tonic Press: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Sonja Lee: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360588-1720.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-7375144.

E8 Thursday, January 7, 2016

Thursday, January 7, 2016 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area January 8-16

TUNING UP Playing at area venues January 7-14 THURSDAY.7

FRIDAY-SUNDAY.8-10 FRIDAY-SATURDAY.15-16

THURSDAY.7

Square dancing, with One-Eyed Cat: 7 to 9 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Loft, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5. 360-445-3000.

“CATS” META Performing Arts, Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org. Check individual listings for times.

JEREMY PELT’S POWER QUINTET 8 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham. $20, $10 students and WJMAC members.

206-612-5967.

Marlaina and Zach Broocke: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5. 360445-3000.

Animals of Grace: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360399-1805.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

MONDAY.11 SWINGNUTS JAZZ 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Angel of the Winds Casino, 3438 Stoluckquamish Lane, Arlington. No cover. 360-474-9740.

Jeremy Pelt’s Power Quintet (jazz): 8 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham. $20, $10 students and WJMAC members. 206612-5967.

FRIDAY.8 MuseBird Café: Allison Preisinger, Tekla Waterfield and Jessa Young, 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

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

Friday Swing, with Duane Melcher and Ken Vanderhyde (’30s, ’40s & ’50s classic tunes): 7 to 9 p.m., North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. No cover.

360-707-2683.

Kristie DeVries: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Radio 80 (‘80s pop and new wave): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-2752448.

Cee Cee James: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360588-1720.

Comedy and music: Joey Cruz, Evelyn Jensen, Eric Alexander Moore, Aaron Fishbein and others; music

by Undead Sex, Downers Grove: 8:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. Free.

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

J.P. Falcon and guests: 8 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360766-6330.

SATURDAY.9 Lindsey Bowen photo

Friday.8

Sunday.10

Friday.15

THEATER

THEATER

THEATER

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Saturday.9 THEATER

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 2 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

MUSIC

Jazz at the Library: Swingnuts Jazz, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Free.

360-293-1910.

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Saturday.16 THEATER

“Cats” (musical): META Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $18-$24.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

The United Notions (jazz): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $5. 360-4453000.

Chris Eger Band: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon.

360-422-6411.

SUNDAY.10 Country Dave: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-7666266.

Radio 80 (‘80s pop and new wave): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover.

MONDAY.11 Gary B’s Church of Blues: Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-445-4733.

Swingnuts Jazz: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Angel of the Winds Casino, 3438 Stoluckquamish Lane, Arlington. No cover. 360474-9740.

Levi Burkle: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Nashville Northwest: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956.

WEDNESDAY.13 Stilly River Band: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360588-1720.

Troy Fair Band: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-737-5144 or 360-629-6500.

Ibex, Fang Chia, Hippopotamus Hot Tub: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6. 360-778-1067.

The Sardines: 9 p.m., Longhorn Saloon & Grill, 5754 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6330.

THURSDAY.14 Steve Davis: 8 p.m., WJMAC Room, The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St., Bellingham. $20, $10 students and WJMAC members. 206-612-5967.

MuseBird Café: Mark Clawson, Wayne Lovegrove and Volkert Volkersz, 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10.

360-445-3000.

No Tonic Press: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-399-1805.

Sonja Lee: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360588-1720.

Open Mic and Jam: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425-7375144.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E10 - Thursday, January 7, 2016

GET INVOLVED ART CALL FOR ARTISTS/ VENDORS: The La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum is accepting applications through Jan. 31 for participation in StashFest, which will be held Saturday, April 9, in La Conner. The annual event features artists and vendors of handmade or unique textiles and textilerelated items (embellishments, fibers, tools, etc.). For information or an application, call 360-466-4288 or visit laconnerquilts.org.

CALL FOR ART: The Town of La Conner Arts Commission is accepting entries through Feb. 8 for the 2016 La Conner Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition. Artists who reside in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska and British Columbia may submit examples of existing works of art available for exhibition and purchase. Works will remain on public display for two years and the Arts Commission will promote their sale through statewide advertising. A prospectus and entry form can be downloaded at townoflaconner.org. For questions, call 360-466-3125 or email arts@townoflacon ner.org.

participation in the association’s annual “Art in a Pickle Barn” show/sale held during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Applications are available online at skagitart .org. For information, call 360-770-3660 or email earthnclay@outlook.com.

ART COMMISSION MEETING: The Mount Vernon Arts Commission will meet at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, in the conference room at Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon.

360-336-6215.

CALL FOR INSTRUCTORS: Burlington Parks and Recreation is looking for qualified instructors to expand its enrichment classes for youth and adults.

To download an instructor’s packet, visit the Parks and Recreation Department webpage at burlington wa.gov and click on the “Instructors Needed” tab.

For information, call 360755-9649 or email recre ation@burlingtonwa.gov.

n Flower Power: with Jennifer McGill: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16. Learn abut different types of paint, explore expressive brush work and spatters, and finish with watercolor pencils or markers to make a personal mini flower painting portfolio to take home. n Mixed Media Bird Nests: with Kim Determan: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13.

Create your own artistic bird’s nest using a collection of materials, much like the birds do. Build a nest with strips of paper, found objects, magazine pages and matte medium to glue it all together.

CREATIVE ARTS: The Gail Harker Center for Creative Arts, 12636 Chilberg Road, Mount Vernon, offers a variety of classes, workshops and programs artists working in a variety of mediums. For information, call 360-466-0110 or visit gailcreativestudies.com.

Next up: CALL TO COLLECTORS: n Color Confidence: This The Anacortes Museum, two-hour introduction to the 1305 Eighth St., Anacortes, Center’s Level 1 Color Studinvites local collectors to ies Course will take place participate in its “Anacortes from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Presents” program by putJan. 8. This course is useful ting their treasures on disto quilters, embroiderers, play at the museum for the weavers, dressmakers, knitCALL FOR ARTISTS/ entire community to enjoy. ters, floral arrangers, hortiGALLERIES: The Whidbey Exhibits usually run about culturalists, woodworkers, Art Trail, a self-guided artthree months. For informa- designers or anyone who ist studio tour, is accepting tion, call 360-293-1915. would like to work with applications, through March color in a more informed 1, from Whidbey Island artFAMILY ART DAYS AT way. $25. ists, galleries and others who MoNA: The Museum of n Experimental Stitch: want to participate in proNorthwest Art offers FamThis introduction to Level 1 moting the artistic bounty of ily Art Days each month at Experimental Hand Stitch Whidbey Island. For inforMoNA, 121 S. First St., La and Level 1 Experimental mation or an application, Conner. Sessions are open Machine Stitch courses will visit whidbeyarttrail.com. to ages 5 and older at all take place from 2 to 4:30 skill levels and include guid- p.m. Friday, Jan. 8. Try out CALL TO ARTISTS: The ed walk-throughs of MoNA some hand stitches in a conSkagit Art Association is exhibitions. $5 per family, temporary way to show how currently accepting new free for members. Limited ideas can be expressed in member applications. Mem- enrollment. Preregistration threads, and see a machine bership benefits include is required. 360-466-4446 or embroidery demonstration. networking with area artists monamuseum.org. $25. in a variety of mediums and Next up: n The Elements of Art

and Design: Color, Line, Shape, Texture and Pattern: An introduction to Level 3 Art and Design: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 9-10. Learn to see the elements of design that are all around us. The concepts will be illustrated with slides and discussion, and participants will explore them using colored pencils, acrylic paints and other mediums. $185. n Textile Appreciation Morning: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19. Enjoy a stitched textile show and tell, including a special presentation on Israeli and Palestinian historic and contemporary textiles. Free.

Registration requested. n Stitching In Circles: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13. Circular stitches can be used to bring interest and pattern to any textile. Participants can try hand stitching with a fun and interesting flair. No experience necessary. $125.

ART CLASSES: Choose from painting, photography, fiber and 3D art workshops taught by professional artists at the Pacific NorthWest Art School, 15 N.W. Birch St., Coupeville. For information and a complete schedule: 360-678-3396 or pacific northwestartschool.com.

ART CLASSES: Dakota Art Center offers a variety of art classes and workshops at 17873 Highway 536, Mount Vernon. 360-4166556, ext. 5, or dakotaart center.com.

NEEDLE WORKING: Needle crafting pros, beginning knitters and everyone in between can find something worthwhile at the monthly Hub City Needle Works meetings. The recently revamped group meets from 4:30 to 6 p.m. the second Thursday of every month at the Burlington Public

“LOST IN YONKERS”: Auditions will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday and 6:30 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 31-Feb. 1, at the Whidbey Playhouse/ Star Studio, 730 SE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor.

BURLINGTON ART CLASSES: Burlington Parks Parts are available for two men, two teen boys and and Recreation will offer three women (one older). these upcoming art classes Auditions will be by readfor kids at the Burlington Parks and Recreation Cen- ing from the script. Neil Simon’s dramatic comedy ter, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave. For information or to regis- will run April 1-17. 360-679ter, call 360-755-9649 or visit 2237 or whidbeyplayhouse. burlingtonwa.gov/recreation. com. n Sci-Fi & Fantasy Art: AUDITIONS FOR CHOwith Max Elam: 4 to 6 p.m.

RAL SINGERS: Cantabile Tuesdays through Jan. 26.

Chamber Choir seeks to Kids ages 8 to 13 will learn audition experienced chothe fundamentals of drawral singers to join our fine ing while having fun creatensemble. Rehearsals are ing their own renditions of mythological heroes, fantasy Mondays, 6:30-9 p.m. in Mount Vernon. The group’s settings, fantastic alien creanext concerts are April tures and their amazing 23-24. Check us out on space ships. Beginner to Facebook! Contact Jennie advanced. $45, includes all Bouma at cantabilechamber supplies. choir@gmail.com or 425312-4565.

ART CLASSES: Sign up for a variety of art classes DANCE at A Guilded Gallery, 8700 FOLK DANCING: Skagit271st St. NW, Stanwood. To Anacortes Folk Dancers register, stop by the Stanmeets Tuesdays at the wood Camano Art Guild’s cooperative gallery, call 360- Bayview Civic Hall, 12615 C St. in Bayview, Skagit 629-2787 or visit stanwood County. Learn to folk dance camanoarts.com. to a variety of international music. Instruction begins at AUDITIONS 7 p.m., followed by review “THE DROWSY CHAPand request dances until ERONE” (a musical within a 9:30 p.m. The first session comedy): Auditions will be is free, $3 thereafter. All held from 2 to 5 p.m. Satur- are welcome. No partners day and 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, needed. For information, Jan. 9-10, at the Anacortes contact Gary or Ginny at Community Theatre, 918 M 360-766-6866.

Ave., Anacortes. Parts are available for five women SCOTTISH DANCING: and seven men ages 20 to Bellingham Scottish Coun70. Auditioners should pre- try Dancers meet from 7 to pare a solo song from the 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the show and a dramatic mono- Fairhaven Library auditorilogue. Perusal scripts and um (upstairs), 1117 12th St., music/CDs are available in Bellingham. Wear comfortthe ACT office. The show able clothes and soft-soled will run March 25-April shoes without heels. $8 per 23. For information or to class. For information, call schedule an audition, call Mary Anderson at 360-933360-293-6829 or visit actthe 1779 or visit bellinghamscd. atre.com. org.

Library, 820 E. Washington Ave. Geared for crafters ages 8 and older. More information at 360-755-0760 or burlingtonwa.gov/library.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 7, 2016 - E11

GET INVOLVED THURSDAY DANCE: Enjoy dancing to the music of The Skippers from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Thursdays at Hillcrest Lodge, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. For information, contact Gisela at 360-424-5696.

MOVING MEDITATIONS: The Dances of Universal Peace will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10, at the Skagit Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 500 W. Section St., Mount Vernon.

Dances include live music and singing with a focus on a particular sacred phrase, inspired by spiritual traditions from around the world, including Christian, Jewish, Native American, Hindu, Buddhist and others. No experience necessary. Dances are taught to the group each time. Donation requested, but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 360-629-9190.

BEGINNER SQUARE DANCE LESSONS: 7 p.m.

Tuesdays at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Families, couples and singles ages 10 and older are welcome. First two weeks are free, then $4 per lesson. 360-424-4608 or email rosie@valleyint.com.

AT THE LINCOLN ‘Cats’ 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8-9 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10

Based on the universally popular poetry of T.S. Eliot, “Cats” tells the story, in song and dance, of the annual gathering of Jellicle cats at which time one special cat is selected to ascend to the Heaviside layer. A true musical theatre phenomenon, CATS opened on May 11, 1981 and ran for a record-setting 21 years. CATS’s London success was nearly matched on Broadway where it ran at the Wintergarden Theatre for just over 18 years.

Tickets: $24, $22, $20, $18. n The Lincoln Theatre is located at 712 S. First St., downtown Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolnthe atre.org.

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

MUSIC

BARBERSHOP HARMONY: Want to have fun singing four-part Barbershop harmony? Attend a free, no-commitment rehearsal of the An-O-Chords. No experience necessary, no auditions required. Learn BELLY DANCING: Anna- by rote, you don’t have to read music. All ages welbelle Vergne will offer a come, 12 to 90+. Drop in four-part Belly Dancing any Thursday at 7 p.m. at class at 6 p.m. Thursdays, the Northwest Educational Jan. 21-Feb. 11, at the Anacortes Center for Hap- Service Building, 1601 R Ave., Anacortes. Rides piness, 619 Commercial available. Bob Lundquist, Ave., Anacortes. Learn 360-941-5733 or svenbob@ basic belly dance moves and explore different styles cheerful.com. of belly dance, from the CALL FOR MUSICIANS: Middle East to Northern Africa. $39. Preregistration 5b’s Bakery, 45597 Main St., Concrete, is looking for required: 360-464-2229 or musicians to perform easyanacortescenterforhappi listening acoustic music ness.org. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during Sunday Brunch. In CLOG DANCING FOR exchange, musicians will BEGINNERS: Free lesson receive audience contribufrom 10 to 11 a.m., followed by regular clog danc- tions and a meal. For inforing from 11 a.m. to noon mation, call 360-853-8700

Shelter Bay resident. 360770-7354.

SINGERS WANTED: 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.

ANACORTES OPEN MIC: 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, at the Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-293-2544.

with outdoor writer Craig Romano. n Jan. 16: Forage Fish Around Skagit County: with Skagit Citizen Forage Fish Survey Team Coordinator Pete Haase. n Jan. 23: Glaciers of the North Cascades: with Jon Riedel, Geologist, North Cascades National Park. n Jan. 30: Salmon and Trout of the Skagit River: Distribution, Abundance Trends and Habitat Recovery: with Richard Brocksmith, Executive Director, Skagit Watershed Council.

Free. For information, call 360-853-7626 or visit skagiteagle.org.

OPEN MIC: Jam Night: 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursdays, at the Conway Pub & EatSWEDISH FIRE LOG: ery, 18611 Main St., Conway. or email info@5bsbakery.

Learn how to make and 360-445-4733. com. burn a “Swedish Fire Log” at 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8, DRUM CIRCLE: 6:30 to TIME FOR FIDDLERS: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, at Rockport State Park, The Washington Old Time at the Center for Spiritual 51095 Highway 20, RockFiddlers play acoustic old port. German exchange Living, 1508 N. 18th St., time music at 6:30 p.m.

Mount Vernon. Bring your intern Christian Boland the second and fourth drum or borrow one. Hand- will demonstrate how to Fridays of each month at make a Swedish fire log icapped accessible. Free. the Mount Vernon Senior Freewill offering accepted. (also known as a Swedish Center, 1401 Cleveland. St. 360-305-7559. torch or candle) at the park Free; donations accepted. picnic shelter. Hot chocoInformation: 630-1156. late and tea will be served.

RECREATION Bring your own marshmalTRAIL GUIDES, BIKE SKAGIT VALLEY MUSIC lows. Dress for the weather.

CLUB: The club welcomes MAPS & MORE: Learn Free with Discover Pass. about opportunities to be performers (intermediate 360-853-8461. physically active in Skagit and above), listeners and County, including trail guests to join the fun at FREE PARK ADMIS1:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, guides, an activity tracker SION: In honor of Martin and local resources at at Vasa Hall, 1805 CleveLuther King Jr. Day, the BeActiveSkagit.org. land St., Mount Vernon.

Washington State Parks Come and sing, play the and Recreation CommisBALD EAGLE INTERPRE- sion will offer free admisclub’s piano or organ, TIVE CENTER: The Skagit play your own instrument sion to all state parks on River Bald Eagle Interpre- Sunday and Monday, Jan. or just enjoy a variety of tive Center is open from music — ’20s to ’70s clas17-18. On these days, the sical, popular, western and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends Discover Pass will not be during December and Janu- required to enter state gospel. Free. For information, call Elaine at 360-428- ary at Howard Miller Steel- parks. The pass is still head Park, 52809 Rockport required to access lands 4228.

Park Road, Rockport. managed by the WashSHELTER BAY CHORUS: Guided hikes are offered ington Department of at 11 a.m. every Saturday Practices are held from 3 Fish and Wildlife and the and Sunday, with special to 5 p.m. every Monday Department of Natural (except 2 to 4 p.m. the first presentations at 1 p.m. most Resources. parks.wa.gov.

Saturdays.

Monday each month) at Next up: the Shelter Bay Clubhouse, DEEP FOREST EXPERIn Jan. 9: Hiking in the 1000 Shoshone Drive, La ENCE: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Skagit Valley: PresentaConner. New members Fridays, Saturdays and welcome. No need to be a tion followed by a hike Sundays, through Feb. 14,

at Rockport State Park, 51095 Highway 20, Rockport. Enjoy guided hikes at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. deep into some of the 670 acres of old-growth forest at Rockport State Park at the foot of Sauk Mountain. Kids can explore the Discovery Center with crafts, interactive wildlife displays, books and games.

Free. Discover Pass or $10 day use fee required to access the park. 360-8538461 or rockport@parks. wa.gov.

SKAGIT VALLEY BOOT CAMP: with instructor Laura Ochoa: 4 to 5 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 5-Feb. 25 (no class Feb. 18, makeup class on Wednesday, Feb. 24), at the Burlington Parks and Recreation Center, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington.

The boot camp, for ages 18 and older, includes strength and core training, body weight exercises, plyometrics, HIIT intervals, cardio conditioning and circuits.

16-class option, $112; eightclass option, $64; drop in, $10 per class. Preregistration required: Call 360-7559649 or visit burlingtonwa. gov/recreation.

NOOKACHAMPS WINTER RUNS: The 37th annual Nookachamps Winter Runs will get underway at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at the Skagit Valley College gymnasium, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon.

The event will feature 5K, 10K and half marathon courses. Day of race registration begins at 8 a.m.

Half marathon walkers will start at 9 a.m. Preregistration deadline is Jan. 12.

Half marathon: $30 preregistered, $35 day of race.

10K: $15 preregistered, $20 day of race. 5K: $12 preregistered, $15 day of race. For information or to register, call 360-510-4288 or visit nookachamps.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E12 - Thursday, January 7, 2016

TRAVEL Local travel

Linda Lombardi via AP

A path lined with rustic paving stones on the grounds of the Kyu Asakura House in Tokyo.

Serenity in a historic Tokyo house and garden

By LINDA LOMBARDI Associated Press

TOKYO — Coming from the high-rise neon madness of Tokyo’s Shibuya neighborhood just one train stop away, simply walking through the neighborhood of Daikanyama may feel almost like being in a Zen temple.

But stroll past the upscale boutiques and restaurants on narrow hilly streets and you’ll find true serenity just a few blocks from the station at the Kyu Asakura House and its garden.

The garden looks and feels different from the classic Japanese-style garden laid out around a pond that you’re likely to find elsewhere, for a couple of reasons.

It’s built on the side of a rather steep natural hill, and

walking up and down on the rustic paving stones requires enough attention sometimes to keep other thoughts out of your mind.

The winding paths also give different views of the same spots, a way of making the rather small garden seem bigger than it is.

The look of the garden is also different for reasons that become clear when you read some of the informational material (available in both Japanese and English) posted inside the house.

Traditional Japanese gardens require careful and constant pruning of trees, but the signs note that this “garden’s main trees are dead and healthy specimens are rampant with massively overgrown trunks.”

This may sound like a Japanese garden gone wild,

but despite the sound of that, you likely won’t feel that what you’re looking at needs fixing. It’s particularly beautiful in its fall colors, which extend into early December.

Entering the house you’ll need to take your shoes off to walk on the tatami floors, which is calming in itself.

The building is made of natural wood and is unfurnished, with no decorative clutter to distract the mind, although there are some lovely painted screens.

One room, where the informational panels are displayed, has a few soft benches where you can sit to look out at the garden. In another room, which is open to the outdoors, you can sit on the floor and contemplate the view.

Around the house, vari-

ous windows of different shapes and sizes offer different perspectives on the garden. You’ll also happen upon an inner courtyard garden that you can see from various angles.

Built in 1919, Kyu Asakura is designated as an “important cultural property” for being one of the rare examples of a Japanese-style mansion remaining in central Tokyo from the period predating the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.

The design incorporates only one Western-style room, but the house has some Western features elsewhere, like glass instead of paper in its sliding doors.

There’s only one thing that slightly mars the serenity here: the rather large number of signs asking you not to touch anything.

Douglass describes her 300-mile bicycling expedi SISTER CITIES PRESEN- tion through horrendous weather and appalling TATION: The Anacortes road conditions across Sister Cities Association one of the most remote invites the public to its and beautiful regions of next meeting at 7 p.m. the planet. Free. 360-293today, Jan. 7, at the 1910, ext. 21, or library.

Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. cityofanacortes.org.

Drs. Harriet Kulnlein and SHORT TRIPS: Mount husband Urs Kulnlein Vernon Parks and Recrewill offer a presentation ation offers travel opporwith slides about their tunities for ages 8 and trip to Bhutan, Myanmar, older (adult supervision Thailand and northeast India. Harriet Kulnlein has required for ages 17 and traveled to some 75 coun- younger). Trips depart tries with special interest from and return to Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th in food and indigenous St., Mount Vernon. For peoples’ cultural food patterns, especially those information or to register, call 360-336-6215. that affect health. Free.

360-873-8835.

SOUTH DAKOTA TRIP: INSIGHT VACATIONS: A The Oak Harbor Senior presentation that explores Center, 51 SE Jerome St., will host a presentation how guided vacations about an upcoming trip to to Europe give travelers South Dakota at 1 p.m. more insight into a desWednesday, Jan. 13. The tination will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, at trip is scheduled for Sept.

AAA Mount Vernon, 1600 4-10. For information, call 360-279-4582 or email E. College Way, Mount pgardner@oakharbor.org.

Vernon. RSVP: 360-8482090.

STATE VISITOR CALL CENTER: The Washing “HONG KONG TO ton Tourism Alliance’s SHANGHAI”: 7 p.m.

ExperienceWA Call Center Wednesday, Feb. 10, is open daily from 8:30 Anacortes Public Library, a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except 1220 10th St., AnaThanksgiving, Christmas cortes. Don and Joyce and New Year’s Day. 1-800Paradine describe their 544-1800 or tourisminfo@ time in Hong Kong and Shanghai. Free. 360-293- watourismalliance.com.

Staff members assist trav1910, ext. 21, or library. elers who have questions, cityofanacortes.org. refer them to specific destination marketing orga “SERENGETI SNAPSHOTS”: 7 p.m. Wednes- nizations and other travel resources across the state day, Feb. 17, Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th for more detailed information, and take orders for St., Anacortes. Retired the Washington State Visilibrary director Cynthia tors Guide.

Harrison shares her 17-day African safari, including the Masai Mora PASSPORT APPLICATIONS: Anacortes Public Game Reserve in Kenya, Library, 1220 10th St., a Masai village and the vistas of the Serengeti in Anacortes, accepts Tanzania. Free. 360-293- passport applications from noon to 6:30 p.m.

1910, ext. 21, or library.

Tuesdays, noon to 5 p.m. cityofanacortes.org.

Wednesdays and 1 to 4 “A TIERRA DEL FUEGO p.m. Saturdays. Passport forms and information on TRAVEL ADVENTURE”: fees and how to apply are 7 p.m. Wednesday, available at travel.state.

March 16, Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th gov, or pick up an application and passport guide St., Anacortes. Author at the library.

Reanne Hemingway

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 7, 2016 - E13

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK

DINING GUIDE

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

MOVIE MONDAYS - Starting at 6:00pm plus double happy hour starting at 3.

JAN. 12 Hotel Transylvania 2 Sinister 2 Irrational Man

TACO AND TALL BOY TWOSDAY - Giant $2 tacos and $2 tall boys of PBR or Rainier.

JAN. 19 Straight Outta Compton Everest Learning to Drive Stonewall The Diary of a Teenage Girl

WING WEDNESDAY - 4 for $4.44. Your choice of sauces.

n Tribune News Service

FRIDAY - Top Regional DJs perform 9pm.

tries to win back his wife.

“Captive”: Single mother with a drug problem is taken hostage in her own apartment.

“True Detective: The Complete Second Season”: Three law enforcement officials investigate a bizarre murder.

“Joe Dirt 2: Beautiful Loner”: White-trash hero embarks on journeys through the recent past, the heartland of America and his own mind to get back to his loved ones.

“Mercury Plains”: Troubled young man is recruited to join a paramilitary group.

“A Brave Heart: The Lizzie Velasquez Story”: Documentary following the journey of Lizzie from cyber-bullying victim to anti-bullying activist.

“Full of Grace”: Look at events unfolding 10 years after Christ’s resurrection.

“The Last Kingdom”: Vikings and Saxons clash in the BBC America series.

“Flesh and Bone”: Cable series about a young woman who becomes a star in a New York ballet company.

“Susie’s Hope”: Film based on true story of a survivor of a pit bull attack. n Rick Bentley, Fresno Bee

THURSDAY - Brewer and Distiller Nights and Trivia with Boston Bob.

SATURDAY - Live Music starting at 7:30pm with DJ late.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY - Brunch menu starting at 9:30am 314 Commercial, Anacortes • 360-755-3956

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“Sicario”: Idealistic FBI agent finds herself involved in a no-rules war on drugs.

Director Denis Villeneuve fashions a film that looks at real evil, with Emily Blunt providing a voice of reason to a twisted world. The result is the scariest picture of the year.

Taylor Sheridan’s script allows time for an assortment of views on how the war on drugs should be fought. Each argument rings true until the violent reality of this world raises its ugly head. Greed and corruption always trump compassion and concern.

Villeneuve knows exactly how to layer the terror.

In some cases it’s a slow build, such as a security stop at the border crossing between the United States and Mexico. The efforts to transport a high-profile prisoner attract the attention of a crew of killers who are in nearby cars.

“The Walk”: Philippe Petit’s attempt to walk a line between the twin towers is exhilarating, but the weakness in Robert Zemeckis’ film is the long buildup to get there. James Marsh’s 2008 Oscar-winning documentary on the same subject is far more compelling.

Between the bad accent and a soundtrack that sounds like it came from a 1950s French crime caper, the majority of “The Walk” fails to be either a revealing tale of one man’s impossible dream or a peek into the elaborate planning it took to pull off the walk in the sky. It took Petit six years to plan the twin towers walk, but the Zemeckis film doesn’t create the feeling that this was such an obsession that Petit was willing to commit so much of his life to taking the walk.

“Infinitely Polar Bear”: Manic-depressive father

SEAHAWK PLAYOFF PARTY Sun. 1/10 10:00AM

MEET IN THE MIDDLE!!

Call for information about our banquet rooms and our full service catering.

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Innovative Food • Craft Cocktails 24 Draft Handles • Live Music

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E14 - Thursday, January 7, 2016

MOVIES NEW THIS WEEK

MINI-REVIEWS

Twentieth Century Fox via AP

Leonardo DiCaprio stars in “The Revenant.”

Everything you’ve heard about the bear is true.

The frenzied grizzly-onman attack in “THE REVENANT,” director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s brutal and beautiful gut-punch of a film, is such an explosion of ursine rage that it is both hard to watch and fascinating (how did they do that?).

And that is “The Revenant” in a nutshell — a grueling portrait of nature and man at their most unrelenting and unforgiving.

Based on a novel by Michael Punke, which was based on the real experiences of 19th-century frontiersman Hugh Glass — a man who sought retribution against his compatriots who left him to die in the wilderness after a bear mauling — the film may be easy to knock as a self-indulgent showcase for DiCaprio and his Oscar ambitions.

But that would be selling it short. Combining the awe-inspiring vistas of a John Ford Western (it was filmed in rugged western Canada, Argentina and Montana) with the blood-soaked justice of a

Sam Peckinpah film, “The Revenant” is a gorgeously shot exercise in survival and revenge that’s definitely not for the squeamish.

DiCaprio is Glass, part of a group of hard-pressed fur traders somewhere in the wild, wild west. It’s a large, unruly squad of men headed

by Captain Andrew Henry (Domhnall Gleeson), the fair-minded but put-upon leader. An attack by Indians slaughters many of them and sends the rest fleeing.

Expert tracker Glass leads the way, but then he runs across that bear. The rest of the group is left with the decision of carrying a nearly dead Glass, and thus slowing them down, or leaving him alone to let nature finish what the bear started.

Glass’ son, Hawk (Forrest Goodluck), whose mother is Indian, doesn’t want him left behind, but he’s not taken seriously by the group. The only reason he’s around is because of who his father is, and he is outweighed by cantankerous and scarred John Fitzgerald (a nearly unrecognizable Tom Hardy), a

man who just wants to get paid and get out of there.

What no one expects is that Glass would not just survive but thrive on the thirst of payback.

It’s a riveting story, made all the more persuasive by Inarritu’s quest for realism.

Much has been made of the physically demanding shoot that had many on the production quitting. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the set was called “a living hell” by one crew member.

All that effort shows onscreen. The actors look as if they really have been fighting for their lives, and DiCaprio turns in a visceral, unforgettable performance.

Celebrated cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki (“Gravity,” “The Tree of Life”) turns the West into a series of striking tableaux that rival Ansel Adams.

Meanwhile, Inarritu has created a panoramic, foreboding natural world that’s completely the opposite of the claustrophobic, backstage theatricality of his last film, “Birdman.” Whereas that movie was all about

language, much of the beauty of “The Revenant” is in the way it uses silence.

The director also deserves a nod for not making the Indians faceless, violent villains as that opening attack implies. Their back story gets filled in during the 156-minute running time and their motives become clear.

“The Revenant” is shot through with a spirituality, as when Glass stumbles across an Indian, Hikuc (Arthur Redcloud), who helps heal him.

While comparisons are inevitable to “The Hateful Eight,” this year’s other long, violent Western about people trying to kill each other, “The Revenant” lacks Quentin Tarantino’s tonguein-cheek sensibilities — and it’s all the better for it.

Inarritu keeps it straight, simple and deadly. Just like the bear.

156 minutes. Rated: R (strong frontier combat and violence including gory images, sexual assault, language, brief nudity) HHH½ n By Cary Darling, Fort Worth Star-Telegram

biography, R, 131 minutes.

HH½ “Meadowland” — Olivia Compiled from Wilde and Luke Wilson news services. deliver authentic perforRatings are 1 to 4 stars. mances as parents dealing with loss in different ways.

It is a well-photographed “Anomalisa” — Even and sometimes surprising though it is a highly stylized, stop-motion animation story, a character study about what happens to a film featuring puppet-like marriage when a child has human characters, the latest creation from the mind gone missing and in all likelihood will never be found. of Charlie Kaufman is a pinpoint-accurate encapsu- Drama, R, 95 minutes. lation of some of the most HHH “Star Wars: The Force banal AND some of the most exhilarating moments Awakens” — What a beauvirtually all of us have expe- tiful, thrilling, joyous, surprising and heart-thumping rienced at some point in our lives. Animated drama, adventure this is. The seventh “Star Wars” film pops R, 90 minutes. HHHH “Carol” — As women act- with memorable battle sequences, gives us chills ing on a mutual attraction with encore appearances in 1950s Manhattan, Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara by stars from the original trilogy and introduces make for one of the most more than a half-dozen intriguing and memorable terrific Next Generation movie couples of the year. characters. It’s a return Todd Haynes directs this to greatness. Sci-fi advenelegant, quietly powerful ture, PG-13, 136 minutes. film with subtle precision.

HHHH Drama, R, 118 minutes.

“Spectre” — The 24th HHH½ “Chi-Raq” — Spike Lee’s James Bond film is solidly in the middle of the all-time update of the Greek comrankings, which means it’s edy “Lysistrata” is a shattering, thunderous wake-up still a slick, beautifully photographed, action-packed, alarm -- a call to lay down arms aimed at the gun cul- international thriller with a number of ludicrously enterture, the gang culture, the taining set pieces. Daniel government and a society Craig remains a tightly that doesn’t always care coiled, deadpan funny 007, about killings as long as and as the sadistic villain, those killings are taking place OVER THERE. Satire, Christoph Waltz is wonderfully insane. Action thriller, R, 127 minutes. HHH½ PG-13, 148 minutes. HHH “Concussion” — Will “Spotlight” — A fine team Smith’s performance, one of actors, including Michael of his best, as a Nigerianborn pathologist crusading Keaton, Rachel McAdams to expose deadly hazards in and Mark Ruffalo, portrays the fine team of Boston the NFL is about so much Globe journalists that more than the accent. investigated child abuse “Concussion” is a good movie that could have been by priests in 2001. It’s one great without trying so hard of the smartest and most involving movies of the to be great. But when it years. Historical drama, R, delves deep into the doc128 minutes. HHH½ tor’s fight to be heard, it’s “The Big Short” — Chrisriveting. Sports drama, PG-13, 123 minutes. HHH tian Bale, Steve Carell and Ryan Gosling star as “Legend” — Playing twin British gangsters in 1960s oddballs (based on real-life individuals) who foresee London, Tom Hardy makes the housing bubble’s burst some bold and always and set out to profit from entertaining if not entirely it. Directed with feverish successful choices. The ingenuity, this is one of the fictionalized version of the terrifying, violent and twist- best times I’ve had at the movies all year. Historical ed Krays manages to be drama, R, 130 minutes. pedestrian and derivative HHHH for long stretches. Crime

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 7, 2016 - E15

MOVIES

‘Spotlight’ earns wins for top film, screenplay

By SUSAN KING Los Angeles Times

Weinstein Company via AP

Kurt Russell (from left), Jennifer Jason Leigh and Bruce Dern star in “The Hateful Eight.”

“The Good Dinosaur” — Partnered up with a boy, a timid dinosaur tries to steer clear of a seemingly endless supply of dangerous creatures. One strange, aggressively gross and dark adventure, this second-level Pixar family film could give the little ones some serious nightmares. Animated adventure, PG, 95 minutes.

HH “The Hateful Eight” — Quentin Tarantino’s second Western in a row is an exhilarating moviegoing experience, filled with wickedly dark humor, nominationworthy 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 Gordon-Levitt, 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 “The Peanuts Movie” — A CGI, 3-D feature about Charlie Brown and his gang could have been a recipe for disaster, but to my great relief,

this is a meticulously faithful and clearly loving tribute to America’s favorite blockhead. It’s a sweet, funny, smart, genuine all-ages movie with simple, timeless messages. Animated, G, 88 minutes. HHH½ “The Ridiculous 6” — With solid production values, a supporting cast that includes everyone from Nick Nolte to Steve Buscemi to Harvey Keitel, and a role that requires Adam Sandler to don an actual costume instead of just shuffling about in sweats or cargo shorts, “The Ridiculous 6” indicates something akin to a genuine effort on Sandler’s part to make us laugh. It’s still a ridiculous waste of time. Comedy-Western, NR, 119 minutes. H “Trumbo” — It’s great fun to watch the great Bryan Cranston chewing the scenery as Dalton Trumbo, the screenwriter imprisoned for refusing to testify about his communist ties in 1947.

This is a corny, well-made B-movie about an A-list screenwriter who had to take jobs writing B-movies after he was blacklisted. Historical drama, R, 124 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

AT AREA THEATERS ANACORTES CINEMAS 360-293-7000 CONCRETE THEATER Jan. 8-10 Star Wars: The Force Awakens: (PG-13): Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: 5 and 8 p.m.; Sunday: 5 p.m. (3D) BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Oak Harbor 360-675-5667 CASCADE MALL THEATERS Burlington For showings: 888-AMC-4FUN (888262-4386) OAK HARBOR CINEMAS 360-279-2226 STANWOOD CINEMAS 360-629-0514

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

Tom McCarthy’s “Spotlight,” the drama about Boston Globe reporters who uncovered sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, was named the best film of 2015 on Sunday by the National Society of Film Critics. McCarthy and Josh Singer also won screenplay honors for the film.

“Spotlight” has received top honors from several critics’ groups, including the Los Angeles Film Critics Association, and won best feature at the Gotham Independent Film Awards.

The drama is nominated for Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild and Spirit awards.

“Carol,” a lush drama about two women who have an affair in the 1950s, was runner-up for top picture, with “Mad Max: Fury Road” taking third. Writer Charlie Kaufman (“Anomalisa”) placed second in the screenplay category, while Charles Randolph and Adam McKay came in third for “The Big Short.”

The film critics’ society,

which includes principal critics from major newspapers and other outlets, named Todd Haynes best director for “Carol.”

McCarthy was runner-up in the category, with George Miller coming in third for “Mad Max: Fury Road.”

“Carol” also won cinematography honors for Ed Lachman, with Mark Lee Ping Bin placing second for “The Assassin” and John Seale coming in third for “Mad Max: Fury Road.”

The lead actor award went to Michael B. Jordan for his portrayal of boxer Apollo Creed’s son in the “Rocky” sequel “Creed.”

Charlotte Rampling was named lead actress for her role as a married woman who learns a secret about her husband in the drama “45 Years.”

Geza Röhrig was runner-up in the lead actor category for “Son of Saul” while Tom Courtenay (“45 Years”) placed third. Saoirse Ronan was runner-up for lead actress for “Brooklyn,” while Nina Hoss took third place for “Phoenix.”

Mark Rylance won sup-

porting actor for his role as a Soviet intelligence officer in “Bridge of Spies.” Kristen Stewart was chosen for supporting actress for her role as an assistant to an international movie star in “Clouds of Sils Maria.”

Michael Shannon came in second for supporting actor for “99 Homes” and Sylvester Stallone placed third in the category for “Creed.” Alicia Vikander (“Ex Machina”) was runner-up for supporting actress, with Kate Winslet (“Steve Jobs”) and Elizabeth Banks (“Love & Mercy”) tying for third.

Mauritania’s “Timbuktu” won the award for foreign language film. The runner-up in the category was “Phoenix,” and “The Assassin” placed third.

Nonfiction film honors went to “Amy,” the documentary about singer Amy Winehouse. “In Jackson Heights” was the runnerup; “Seymour: An Introduction” placed third.

Of the 53 members, 38 voted at Sunday’s meeting at the Elinor Bunin Munroe Center at Lincoln Center in New York using a weighted ballot system.

At The Historic

2016 DATES:

Lincoln Theatre

Friday, Jan. 8, at 7:30pm

In downtown Mount Vernon,WA Music by ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER Based on “Old Possum’s Book Of Practical Cats”

By T.S. ELIOT* First performance at The New London Theatre, London May 11, 1981 presented by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Theatre Co. Limited Originally presented in America by The Shubert Organization, Cameron Mackintosh, The Really Useful Company and David Geffen Original Broadway production Directed by Trevor Nunn Associate Directed and Choreography by Gillian Lynne Designed by John Napier Orchestration by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber

The amateur production of

Saturday, Jan. 9, at 7:30pm Sunday, Jan. 10, at 2:00pm Friday, Jan. 15, at 7:30 pm Saturday, Jan. 16, at 7:30 pm Wednesday, Jan. 20, at 7:30pm

Tickets Available Now! ONLINE: www.lincolntheatre.org

BY PHONE: 360.336.8955

Thursday, Jan. 21, at 7:30pm Friday, Jan. 22, at 7:30pm Saturday, Jan. 23, at 7:30 pm

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