360 June 30, 2016

CELEBRATING THE FOURTH OF JULY Page 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday June 30, 2016

ON STAGE PAGE 8 Ana Popovic performs Sunday at the Lincoln Theatre TUNING UP PAGE 9 The Walrus plays the Edison Inn in Edison on Saturday night

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NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK ring Ryan Reynolds has “Whiskey Tango Upcoming finally been released on Foxtrot”: The film DVD. starts with an interestmovie releases “Eye in the Sky”: ing idea. But the script Following is a partial Military officer in comby Robert Carlock, so schedule of coming DVD mand of drone operaloosely based on the releases. Release dates tion must stop a suicide book by Kim Barker are subject to change: mission. that the comparisons “Rams”: Brothers are easy to miss, drones JULY 5 must come together to on to the point of n I Saw the Light stop a disaster. boredom. n By the Sea “Precious Cargo”: There are a few n The Family Fang Bruce Willis stars in attempts to lift up the n Boy & the World this story of a crime story with some forced n Term Life boss looking to take plotlines about job n Code of Honor credit for another security and how tough n Dear Eleanor crook’s work. it is for war corresponn Holidays “The Bible Stories: dents to keep a relan House of Cards: Joseph”: Ben Kingsley tionship going. Neither Season 4 headlines the cast of is interesting enough to n Mothers and Daughthis story of a man belift the movie. ters trayed by his brothers.

“Whiskey Tango n Saving Hope: Season 2 “Vera: Set 6”: Foxtrot” goes beyond Brenda Blethyn plays a what the public sees on JULY 12 cantankerous detective television. It’s a glimpse n The Divergent Series: who solves unthinkable at how journalists Allegiant crimes in northeast must deal with hostile n Miracles From England. environments, separaHeaven “Francofonia”: tion from family and n Everybody Wants Presents a portrait of friends, strict military Some the real events that rules and constant n Green Room saved Paris’s Louvre deadlines. These are n The Dark Horse Museum under the people who work hard n Colony: Season One Nazi occupation. and play harder. n iZombie: The Com“Fastball”: Baseball “Adventures in plete Second Season documentary narrated Babysitting”: The n LEGO DC Super

by Kevin Costner. milestone film for the Heroes: Justice League: “The Girl in the Disney Channel, its Gotham City Breakout Photographs”: 100th original movie, n Slasher: Season 1 Mysterious photos of is inspired by the 1980s n The Dresser murdered women spark movie of the same an investigation. name. The biggest difJULY 19 “Aferim!”: A pair ference is that instead n Batman v Superman: of riders search for a of one babysitter, there Dawn of Justice gypsy slave. are two. n The Perfect Match “Kung Fu Panda 3”: Sabrina Carpenter n Miles Ahead It is time for the student and Sofia Carson porn Demolition to become the teacher. tray the babysitters who n Elvis & Nixon “Back in the Day”: get drawn into a series n A Perfect Day Tale of a life on the of misadventures by n Bitten: Season 3 streets is set in present the young people they n Kill Zone 2 day and in the late watch. Carpenter plays n Orphan Black: Season 1980s. a perfect babysitter who Four “The Bible Stories: does everything by the Jacob”: Matthew Mobook; Carson’s characdine stars in this tale of ter is more of a rebel. love and betrayal.

The film offers “Rabin, The Last Days”: Assasthe same quirky fun as the original, sination of Prime Minister Yitzhak kicked up a notch by Carpenter and Rabin becomes a turning point for Carson.

Israel.

“Two Guys and a Girl: The Com— Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee plete Series”: The TV comedy star-

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

TUNING UP / Page 9

Petunia & the Vipers play the Conway Muse on Friday night

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

Out & About............................................ 4-5 Get Involved................................................6 Music Reviews............................................7 On Stage.......................................................8 Tuning Up....................................................9 Hot Tickets................................................10 Travel..........................................................12 At the Lincoln...........................................13 Movies..................................................14-15

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

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

FOURTH OF JULY In the area Saturday-Monday, July 2-4

ORCAS ISLAND — The Orcas Chamber Community Parade begins at noon Saturday. The celebration continues with fireworks at dusk Sunday over Deer Harbor, and at dusk Monday at Eastsound Waterfront Park. 360-3762273 or orcasislandchamber.com.

Sunday, July 3

BIG LAKE — The 53rd annual Big Lake Fire Fighters Association fireworks display will begin around dark. biglakefire.org/association.html or biglakefirerescue@ gmail.com.

ANACORTES — Enjoy a commemoration for those who have served our country at 5:30 p.m. at The Depot, 611 R Ave., followed by games and entertainment. cityofanacortes.com.

Monday, July 4

ANACORTES — The annual Fourth of July Parade and Patriotic Program will begin at 11 a.m. The parade starts at the corner of Third Street and Commercial Avenue and ends at the Depot on R Ave. At 10 a.m., the Anacortes American staff will take a town photo at Fifth Street and Commercial Avenue.

Anacortes residents are encouraged to participate. 360588-1108.

Family-friendly fun continues at “Rock the Dock” event from 3:30 to 10 p.m. at Seafarers Memorial Park, 601 Seafarers Way. The evening concludes with fireworks at dusk over Fidalgo Bay. Free admission. 360-299-8122 or portofanacortes.com.

BELLINGHAM — The Haggen Family Fourth of July Celebration will take place from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Zuanich Point Park, Squalicum Harbor. Enjoy old-time games, live music, a “Hoop It Up” 3-on-3 basketball tournament, beer garden, live music and more, followed by fireworks at around 10:30 p.m. Free. 360-733-8720.

BLAINE — The 15th annual Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration takes place in downtown Blaine. Enjoy a pancake breakfast at 8 a.m., a parade at noon, a street fair, show-and-shine car show, live entertainment, and historic Plover Ferry rides (by donation) to see the fireworks show over Semiahmoo Bay at dusk. 360-332-4544 or blainechamber.com.

CONCRETE — The annual Fourth of July parade begins at 11 a.m. on Main Street. Participants start lining up at 10 a.m. in the Puget Sound Energy parking lot, 46110 E. Main St. Then enjoy music, games and more. Bring a picnic or enjoy the Concrete Chamber barbecue by donation. Free admission. 360-853-8784 or concrete-wa.com.

EVERETT — The Colors of Freedom Parade will begin at 11 a.m. on Colby and Wetmore avenues between Wall and 26th streets. Then check out the Colors of Freedom Festival featuring live music, kids’ activities and a food fair from 1 to 11 p.m. at Legion Memorial Park, 145 Alverson Blvd. Park at Everett Station and take the free shuttle. Fireworks begin at dark over Port Gardner Bay. Free. 425-257-7107 or enjoyeverett. org.

FRIDAY HARBOR — Enjoy the Fourth of July Parade down Spring Street at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Pig War Picnic at the San Juan Historical Museum. Enjoy lunch, music, games and more. The Roche Harbor fireworks show starts at dusk. sanjuanisland.org.

LA CONNER — The Hometown Fourth of July Parade starts at noon, followed by a community picnic and children’s events at Pioneer Park. A free concert featuring Geoffrey Castle and his all-star band, and Terry Nelson and Friends will begin at 6 p.m. at the marina, followed by fireworks over the Swinomish Channel at 10 p.m. A beer and wine garden and food vendors will be available starting at 5 p.m. 360-466-4778 or lovelaconner. com.

LOPEZ ISLAND — The Lopez Island Fourth of July starts with a Lions Club Fun Run/Walk at 8:30 a.m. beginning at Islanders Bank. The “Salish Sea Salute” Parade gets underway at 11 a.m. starting between the Galley Restaurant and the Islander Resort, winding through the village on Lopez Road. A barbecue after the parade will be held at the Lopez Center Outdoor Pavilion.

Fireworks start around 10:30 p.m. over Fisherman Bay. 360-468-4664 or lopezisland.com.

MOUNT VERNON — Enjoy food and music from 7 to 10 p.m. at Edgewater Park, 600 Behrens-Millett Road, Mount Vernon. The Mountain Flowers and the Chris Eger Band will entertain before the fireworks show at dark. 360-336-6215 or mountvernonwa.gov.

OAK HARBOR — The Old Fashioned Fourth Of July celebration features activities in and around Windjammer Park, SW Beeksma Drive. Events include the Grand Parade at 11 a.m. on Bayshore Drive, arts and crafts fair from noon to 10 p.m., music, barbecue, beer garden and more. Fireworks start at dark. A family carnival will be held June 30-July 4 at Windjammer Park. 360-6753755 or oakharborchamber.com.

SEDRO-WOOLLEY — The annual Loggerodeo Grand Parade starts at 11 a.m. on Third Street by Sedro-Woolley High School. Fireworks at dusk at Riverfront Park.

Activities all weekend include a carnival, logging show, two-day rodeo, classic car show, barbecue, music and

more.

360770-8452 or loggerodeo.org.

The Sedro-Woolley Alumni and Schools Foundation will host the ninth annual Robyn’s Pancakes for Kids breakfast from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Monday at the Sedro-Woolley Senior Center, 715 Pacific Ave. $5 suggested donation.

STANWOOD — The Fourth of July Parade starts at 11 a.m. at the Josephine Sunset Home Parking Lot, 9901 272nd Place NW, and ends with an ice cream social at the Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27108 102nd Ave NW. Costume contest for ages 11 and younger, with prizes for the top costume depicting a patriotic or U.S. history theme. Free. 360-629-6110 or sahs-fncc.org.

Saturday, July 9

BURLINGTON — Skagit Speedway, 4796 Highway 99N, will present the Les Schwab Tires Fireworks Extravaganza in conjunction with the Les Schwab Tire Centers Midseason Championship and Giant Fireworks Show. 360-724-3567 or visit skagitspeedway.com.

Fireworks regulations in county Unless local regulations are more restrictive, state law allows the sale of approved fireworks from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. June 30July 4, and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. July 5.

Discharge is permitted from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. June 30-July 3, 9 a.m. to midnight July 4, and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 5.

While state law applies to unincorporated areas of Skagit County and the city of Oak Harbor, some county cities have enacted more restrictive laws or entirely banned the sale and discharge of fireworks.

Fireworks are banned in Anacortes, Burlington and Concrete.

Sales and discharge of fireworks are not permitted at any time within those cities.

Sales are banned in La Conner, but discharge is permitted from 9 a.m. to midnight on July 4.

In Mount Vernon, sales are restricted to 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. June 30-July 4. Discharge is permitted from noon to midnight July 4.

Sales are restricted to 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. June 30-July 4 in Sedro-Woolley. Discharge is permitted from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 4.

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OUT & ABOUT

ART

COFFEEHOUSE ART EXHIBIT: View Stephanie Banaszak’s pen and ink plus prints show from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. today, June 30, at North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. 360-707-2683 or northcovecoffee. com. Free admission.

LA CONNER QUILT AND TEXTILE 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 ages 11 and younger.

360-466-4288 or laconnerquilts.org. n Exhibit: “Creative Knitting”: Through July 3. n Exhibit: “Colonial Revival Quilts”: Through Aug. 28. n Exhibit: “Beauty of Japan” and “Images of Japan”: Through Oct. 2.

SCOTT MILO GALLERY: Experience over 70 small works of art in an array of genres, styles and mediums at Plein Air Washington Artists’ inaugural juried art show through July 30 at 420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and by appointment.

Closed Sundays. Free.

360-293-6938 or scottmilo.com.

ANDY FRIEDLANDER ART SHOW: Friedlander exhibits representational oil paintings from July 1 to Aug. 28 at Ill Caffe Rifugio,

LA CONNER SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Eagles car show will be held from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 2, at 1000 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. Check out a wide range of classic and custom vehicles, live music, beer garden, great food, 50/50 drawing, raffles and more.

Entry fee: $15. 360-8550530.

‌

Hot Damn Scandal will play from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 3, at Gilkey Square, on the corner of Morris Avenue and First Street in La Conner. 360-395-8540 or laconnerlive.com.

5415 Mount Baker Highway, Deming. Café is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friedlander’s paintings can also be viewed at the Café Burlington, 331 E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington.

360-592-2888. An artist’s reception will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, July 1.

LA CONNER QUILT AND TEXTILE 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 ages 11 and younger.

360-466-4288 or laconnerquilts.org. n Exhibit: “Creative Knitting”: Through July 3. n Exhibit: “Colonial Revival Quilts”: Through Aug. 28. n Exhibit: “Beauty of Japan” and “Images of

Japan”: Through Oct. 2.

“SUMMER MOMENTS”: The Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park presents a selection of blown glass, sculptures and paintings from July 9-Aug. 21 at 2345 Blanche Way, Camano Island. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays through Sundays; weekdays by appointment. 360-3872759 or matzkefineart.com. An artists’ reception will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 9.

PILCHUCK GLASS SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: Tour Pilchuck Glass School’s Stanwood campus from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 10, at 1201 316th St. NW, Stanwood.

Browse the art sale, watch hot glass demonstrations by renowned artists, and experience docent-led hikes and tours of the facilities and scenic campus.

Several further activities are available; costs vary. Registration required to attend: $20 admission, children 5 and under are free.

Cash or check only for activities and concessions the day of the event. 206-254-1966 or pilchuck.com.

OUTDOOR SCULPTURE SHOW: The Northwest Stone Sculptors Association celebrates its 29th anniversary with an outdoor sculpture show from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, July 16, at Camp Brotherhood, Treacy Levine Center, 24880 Brotherhood Road, Mount Vernon.

See artists at work and learn about the stone and tools used to create these three-dimensional works of art. Rain or shine. Free. 206-3959736 or nwssa.org.

CAR SHOWS

S-W CAR SHOW: The Sedro-Woolley

CLASSIC CAR CRUISE-IN: San Juan Lanes Bar & Grill hosts a classic car event from 5 to 8 p.m. on the first Friday of each month, at 2821 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

Enjoy a brewer’s night sponsored by Pelican Brewing Co., bowling and great food. Free admission. Next up: July 1. 360-293-5185 or sanjuanlanes.com.

FAIRS

LOGGERODEO: Celebrate the longest running 4th of July celebration in Washington from July 1-4, throughout Sedro-Woolley.

Parades, logger exhibitions, rodeo, carnival, beard contest, live music, firefighter contest, food, fireworks and more. Free admission. 360-770-8452 or loggerodeo.org.

KLA HA YA DAYS: The annual old-fashioned summertime festival’s theme is “Game On, Snohomish!” from July 9-17. Parade, street fair, vintage fair block, car & motorcycle show, music stage, beer garden and more. 425-493-7824 or klahayadays.com.

An arts & crafts festival and vintage fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 16, between Union, Glen, Pearl and Cedar streets.

A car & motorcycle

show will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 17, on First St. from Maple to Ave. A and on Union, Glen, Pearl and Cedar. There will be parking on the streets for vintage and custom cars and motorcycles, and prizes for people’s choice winners. Participants are encouraged to preregister before July 1 at klahayadays.com/ car-motorcycle-show.

FESTIVALS

22ND ANNUAL HIGHLAND GAMES: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, July 9, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 10, Edgewater Park, 600 Behrens Millet Road, Mount Vernon. Part of an annual circuit of Scottish competitions, with expert solo bagpiping and drumming, bagpipe bands, fiddling, traditional Scottish athletics and Scottish Highland dancing.

Prices vary. 360-4164934 or celticarts.org.

KIDS-R-BEST FEST: Celebrate kids from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, July 9, at Storvik Park, 1110 32nd St., Anacortes. Enjoy family-friendly games, activities, live entertainment, food, prizes and more. Free. 360-2933832 or anacortes.org.

32ND ANNUAL CHILDREN’S ART FESTIVAL: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 16, Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. Children can experience activities from fish prints to sand art. Concessions are available or bring your own picnic. Free. 360336-6215 or mountvernonwa.gov.

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OUT & ABOUT 36TH ANNUAL SHIPWRECK FESTIVAL: 8 a.m. (some vendors start at first light) to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 16, along Commercial Street from 10th to Third streets, Anacortes.

This event features over 200 vendors. Free admission. 360-299-9390 or shipwreckfest.com.

NORTH CASCADES VINTAGE AIRCRAFT FLY-IN: Friday, July 22, to Sunday, July 24, North Cascades Vintage Aircraft Museum, 7879 Mears Field at the Concrete Airport, S. Superior Ave., No. 6, Concrete. Food trucks, live music and more.

Free. 360-770-4848 or vintageaircraftmuseum. org.

LECTURES AND TALKS

TEEN SUICIDE FORUM: Sno-Isle Libraries’ Issues that Matter series will host a Teen Suicide Forum at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 7, at the Stanwood Camano Community Resource Center, 9612 271st St. NW, Stanwood. A panel will discuss the causes, scope and prevention of teen suicide, followed by a question and answer session. Free. 360-6293132 or sno-isle.org/ issues-that-matter.

MUSIC

EAGLE HAVEN WINERY 2016 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: A variety of outdoors performances will be held at the winery, 8243 Sims Road, Sedro-Woolley. $10, $8 for wine club members, includes 20 percent off your first bottle of wine. Children under 12 free. Reserved tables available. 360-

FAIRHAVEN OUTDOOR CINEMA

The Bellingham summer outdoor movie series runs Saturday evenings, through Aug. 27, at the Fairhaven Village Green, 1207 10th St., Bellingham. Come early and enjoy a selection of live music, dance and circus-style entertainment. Times for seating and entertainment vary and the movies start at dusk. Bring a blanket; chairs are not allowed on the grass. $5 admission; ages 5 and under are free. Next up: July 2: 7:30 p.m.: “Jurassic World.” fairhavenoutdoorcinema.com.

856-6248 or eaglehavenwinery.com. n Austin Jenckes (Americana, southern rock and country): 5 p.m. Saturday, July 9. n Margaret Wilder Band (blues, funk, R&B): 7 p.m. Friday, July 22.

BELLINGHAM FESTIVAL OF MUSIC: A summer orchestral concert series by some of America’s premier virtuoso orchestras and world-famous guest artists takes place at the Western Washington University Performing Arts Center, 516 High St., Bellingham. There will be free concert lectures at 6:30 p.m. before each concert in the Performing Arts Center Concert Hall. $12-$45.

Tickets: 360-650-6146 or bellinghamfestival. org. n July 1: 7:30 p.m., featuring Lynn Harell, cello.

n July 5: 7:30 p.m., featuring Cho-Liang Lin, violin. n July 7: 7:30 p.m., featuring Calidore String Quartet. n July 9: 7:30 p.m., featuring Calidore String Quartet.

BELLINGHAM FESTIVAL OF MUSIC FREE CONCERTS: The Whatcom Community Foundation Fund and Whatcom Museum of History and Art sponsor four free chamber music concerts at local venues.

Free. bellinghamfestival. org. n July 6: noon, Whatcom Museum of History and Art, Rotunda Room, 121 Prospect St., Bellingham. n July 9: 2 p.m., Mallard Ice Cream, 1323 Railroad Ave., Bellingham. n July 11: noon, Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden. n July 15: noon,

Whatcom Museum of History and Art, Rotunda Room, 121 Prospect St., Bellingham.

RIVERWALK CONCERT SERIES: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, downtown Mount Vernon. mountvernonchamber.com. Next up: n July 7: Chris Eger Band and the Powerhouse Horns. n July 14: Rivertalk. n July 21: Rabbit Wilde. n July 28: Geoffrey Castle Trio.

BURLINGTON SUMMER NIGHTS: Fresh market goods and live local music 7 to 9 p.m.

Fridays, Burlington Visitor Center, 520 E. Fairhaven Ave. Free admission. 360-757-0994 or burlington-chamber. com. n July 8: Whiskey River. n July 15: The Dogtones. n July 22: Naughty Blokes. n July 29: Gin Gypsy.

AMERICAN ROOTS MUSIC SERIES: Enjoy free performances at 7 p.m. Saturdays at Deception Pass State Park, West Beach Amphitheater, 41020 Highway 20, Oak Harbor. Discover Pass or day-use permit required for park access.

360-675-3767 or parks. state.wa.us/folkarts. n July 9: Miho & Diego: Sounds of Japan and South America. n July 16: Erin Fristad and John Van Amerongen: Fisher poetry, songs and true stories. n July 23: Sedentary Sousa Band: World’s only seated marching band.

40TH DARRINGTON

BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL: Friday through Sunday, July 15-17, Darrington Bluegrass Music Park, Highway 530, Darrington. Gates open on July 9. Prices vary. 360-436-1179 or darringtonbluegrass. com.

SOUNDS OF SUMMER CONCERTS: Marysville Parks and BNSF Railway sponsor tribute bands playing a series of concerts celebrating the music of America’s favorite bands at 7 p.m. Fridays, at Jennings Park, Lions Centennial Pavilion, 6915 Armar Road, Marysville. Free. 360-363-8400 or marysvillewa.gov. n July 15: “Wasted Words,” The Allman Brothers Band. n July 22: “The Walrus,” The Beatles.

WEDNESDAY CHILDREN’S CONCERTS: Marysville Parks presents kids’ favorite bands performing at noon Wednesdays at Jennings Park, Lions Centennial Pavilion, 6915 Armar Road, Marysville. Free.

360-363-8400 or marysvillewa.gov. n July 13: Johnny Bregar & The Country Dawgs. n July 27: Eli Rosenblatt and Friends.

UN-WINE’D WEDNESDAYS: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month through October at 1225 Third St., Marysville. Each evening features a local winery, and snacks and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. $5. 360-363-8400 or marysvillewa.gov. n July 13: The Joan Penney Trio.

JAZZ AT THE CENTER: Trish Hatley and friends will perform from 7 to 9 p.m.

Wednesday, July 20, at the Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Road, Camano Island. $20, students free with student i.d. 360-387-0222 or camanocenter.org.

PORT OF ANACORTES SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: Bring a lawn chair and enjoy music from 6 to 8 p.m. at Seafarers Memorial Park, 601 Seafarers Way, Anacortes. Free. portofanacortes.com. n Friday, July 8: Dusty 45s. n Friday, July 15: The Jefferson Rose Band.

HEART OF ANACORTES OUTDOOR CONCERT SERIES: Saturdays from July to September at the Heart of Anacortes, Fourth Street and O Avenie, Anacortes. The concerts will be cancelled in the case of rain. 360-2933515 or theheartofanacortes.com. n July 16: 2 to 3 p.m., Newton’s Law. n July 23: 6 to 8 p.m., The Walrus. n July 30: 6 to 8 p.m., Hot Damn Scandal DOWNTOWN SOUNDS: The free concert series is held from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, July 6-Aug. 3, on the 1300 block of Bay St., Bellingham. Activities, food, vendors and beer garden. 360-527-8710 or downtownbellingham. com. n July 6: The Dip with The Austerman File. n July 13: Marmalade with Snug Harbor. n July 20: Fruition with Vaudeville Etiquette.

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GET INVOLVED

ART

ART WALK: The Mount Vernon Downtown Association’s next art walk will take place from 5 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, July 7. Various locations exhibit original works by local and regional artists on the First Thursday of each month through October. 360-336-3801 or mountvernondowntown.org.

KNITTER’S GUILD: North Sound Knitter’s Guild will meet from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, July 11, in the Social Room at the Stanwood Community and Senior Center, 7430 276th St. NW, Stanwood. 360387-9611.

ANACORTES ARTS COMMISSION: The

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

July 1 6-9pm A.C.M.E. Creative Spaces Anacortes Oil & Vinegar Bar The Good Stuff Arts THink Tiny Gallery Scott Milo Gallery The Majestic Inn and Spa PDA Marketing Group www.anacortesart.com

Anacortes Arts Commission will meet at 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 13, in the Anacortes Library meeting room, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. 360-299-1950 or anacortesartscommission.com.

ART COMMISSION MEETING: The Mount Vernon Arts Commission will meet at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 19, in the conference room at Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. 360-336-6215.

CALL FOR ANACORTES ARTISTS: The Anacortes Arts Commission is accepting applications through July 15 for the first Anacortes and Guemes Island Artist’s Studio Tour, set for Oct. 22-23.

Artists must live or have studio space in the 98221 ZIP code to participate. Artists without a studio may have the opportunity to participate at the Depot, 611 R Ave., Anacortes. Entry guidelines: 360-2931918 or anacortesartscommission.com.

“GHOST STORIES”: A film by five Anacortes High School students and filmed aboard Anacortes’ “W.T. Preston” snag boat will premier at 10 p.m.

Thursday, July 21, on KCTS 9’s Reel NW. The National Film Festival for Talented Youth announced that “Ghost Stories,” a three-minute movie with flashbacks to historical characters and animation, is one of the films selected to be broadcast for a web premiere. 360-293-1915 or yerbyl@cityofanacortes.org.

AUDITIONS

”THE MIRACLE WORKER”: 7 p.m.

Monday-Wednesday, Aug. 1-3, Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden. The production will run Thursdays-Sundays, Sept. 22-Oct. 9. 360354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com. ”A CHRISTMAS STORY”: The Theater Arts Guild will hold auditions at 6, 7 and 8 p.m.

Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 16-17, at the Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon.

The production will run Nov. 26-Dec. 10 at the Lincoln Theatre. To register: riapeth@hotmail. com. More information: 360-421-4173 or theaterartsguild.org.

DANCE

A CHANCE TO DANCE: The Skagit Valley Academy of Dance presents a program for children ages 7-12 who may have physical challenges or unique needs from 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Wednesdays, through July 20, at 1522 Jay Way, Mount Vernon.

Kids enjoy a fun and nurturing environment in which dancers gain body awareness, balance and strength and social integration while encouraging confidence and the joy of creative movement. $50 for the four-week program.

360-424-6677 or skagitvalleyacademyofdance. com.

‘KICK UP YOUR HEELS’ FAMILY DANCES: Enjoy free family dances from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturdays at Cama Beach State

Park, 1880 SW Camano Drive, Camano Island.

Discover Pass or dayuse permit required for park access. 360-3871550 or parks.state. wa.us/folkarts. Next up: n July 9: Risky Chicken String Band, with Alex MacLeod, caller. n July 23: Forrest Carroll and Friends, with Amy Carroll, caller.

TANGO PRACTICA: with Marshall Lombardo: Learn and practice the art of Argentine Tango from 8 to 10 p.m.

Fridays at the Anacortes Center for Happiness, 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. $5. 360-4642229 or anacortescenterforhappiness.org.

FOLK DANCING: Skagit-Anacortes Folk Dancers meet Tuesdays at the Bayview Civic Hall, 12615 C St. in Bayview, Skagit County.

Learn to folk dance to a variety of international music. Sessions begin with a review at 7 p.m., followed by request dances until 9:30 p.m.

The first session is free, $3 thereafter. All are welcome. No partners needed. For information, contact Gary or Ginny at 360-766-6866.

THURSDAY DANCE: Dance to 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.

MUSIC

BARBERSHOP HARMONY: Attend a free, no-commitment rehearsal of the AnO-Chords, a four-part barbershop harmony organization. No experience necessary,

no auditions required.

Learn by rote, you don’t have to read music. All ages welcome. Drop in any Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Northwest Educational Service Building, 1601 R Ave., Anacortes.

Rides available. Bob Lundquist, 360-9415733 or svenbob@ cheerful.com.

TIME FOR FIDDLERS: The Washington Old Time Fiddlers play at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland. St. Free; donations accepted.

360-630-1156.

SHELTER BAY CHORUS: Practices are held from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Mondays (except the first full week of each month, when practice is held on Friday) at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse, 1000 Shoshone Drive, La Conner. New members welcome. No need to be a Shelter Bay resident. 360-770-7354.

LOVE TO SING? Join the women of Harmony Northwest Chorus from 6:30 to 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, Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-293-2544.

OPEN MIC: Jam night, 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursdays, Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Con-

way. 360-445-4733.

RECREATION

FIX-IT DAYS: Specialists mend broken appliances, lamps that need attention or chipped items from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the last Saturday of each month, at the Anacortes Farmers Market, the Depot, 611 R Ave., Anacortes.

Donations for repairs benefit the Deception Pass Park Foundation.

Call if you need pick-up arrangements. 360-6753767 or deceptionpassfoundation.org.

29TH ANNUAL CLEAR LAKE TRIATHLON: The triathlon is a three-stage event that includes a 1/3 mile swim, a 14.8-mile bike ride and a 4-mile run, starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 9, from Clear Lake Beach, 12925 S. Front St., Clear Lake. A youth triathlon for ages 14 and under follows at 11 a.m. Participants enter as an individual (iron person) or as a team. Each participant will receive a commemorative shirt and entry into the postrace raffle. Registration due

by Friday, July 1. Team: $85-$95, Iron person: $60-$70, Youth: $20$25. 360-416-1350 or skagitcounty.net/parks.

RIVER RAILROAD BIRTHDAY PICNIC: The Skagit River Railroad Bridge is turning 100 this year. Celebrate from noon to 3 p.m.

Saturday, July 9, at the Skagit River Park Playfields’ Horseshoe Pit Shelter, 1100 S. Skagit St., Burlington. There will be sandwiches and birthday cake. Free.

360-305-5079 or stand. earth.

Thursday, June 30, 2016 - E7

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MUSIC REVIEWS CASE/LANG/VEIRS, “case/lang/veirs” — Beware the supergroup.

When strong-willed solo artists join forces, end results often do not equal, let alone exceed, the sum of their parts.

There’s no working at cross purposes in evidence, however, on this impressively cohesive three-way team-up of Americana-leaning vocalist and songwriters Neko Case, k.d. lang, and Laura Veirs. The unexpected grouping was instigated by lang, the still sumptuous-voiced chanteuse whose career-highlight collaborations include her early cowgirl years with the band Ben Mink, plus pairings with Roy Orbison and Tony Bennett.

This ego-free set opens with “Atomic

Number,” with each singer taking a verse, and from there the song’s principal songwriter takes the lead.

Veirs, the least-known and most underrated of the trio (whose husband, Tucker Martine, handles the pleasantly understated production) sings the snappy single “Best Kept Secret.” Case, a seasoned collaborator known for her gale-force vocals with the New Pornographers, as well as her genre-melding solo work, leads the way on discursive story songs such as “Behind the Armory.” All told, not quite the equal of any of the artists’ best work, but better than anyone would have a right to expect from a one-off collaboration.

— Dan DeLuca, The Philadelphia Inquirer

YG, “Still Brazy” — Who is the real Keenon Daequan Ray Jackson, a.k.a. Compton’s youngest gun, YG? Is he the bad news bear of West Coast rap, following in the gangsta footsteps of fellow Compton hip-hop gods such as NWA with the likes of 2014’s angry back-to-back LP releases such as “My Krazy Life” and “Blame It on the Streets”? Or is he all chill, laid back, and G-Funk like his Doggfather neighbor, Snoop? On his relaxed “Still Brazy,” an album that replaces all C’s with B’s, YG is a little bit of both and equally adept at either — with a little room left over for additional adventures.

More sparse and economic in his words and flow than most, this new Hemingway reports on his own shooting last

JULY 4

th

A Hometown Celebration • FREE CONCERT at the La Conner Marina • Gigantic Fireworks Display • Community Activities

GEOFFREY CASTLE & HIS ALL-STAR BAND TERRY NELSON & FRIENDS • Noon - Children’s Parade downtown, then community picnic at Pioneer Park • 5 PM - Food, Beer and Wine Garden Open at the Marina • 6 PM - Terry Nelson & Friends • 8 PM - Geoffrey Castle & His All-Star Band • 10:10 PM - Fireworks Extravaganza

June (on the bluntly titled “Who Shot Me?”) and the simple elegance of burglary (“Don’t Come to L.A.”). “I go broke rob fools for their jewelry/ Stick yo hand up like you guilty,” he coolly intones on the latter track in a manner that would impress the icy Cary Grant in “To Catch a Thief.”

Moments later, when he’s not riding a sleep-lulling G-Funk pulse on “Twist My Fingaz” and “Why You Always Hatin’ “ (the latter featuring Drake at his loping dope best), YG is acting the fool on the playful “Bool, Balm & Bollective.” Whichever YG you get, each is Yery Good.

—A.D. Amorosi, The Philadelphia Inquirer BRANDY CLARK, “Big Day in a Small Town” — “Big day in a

small town” is the sort of concept that, in the hands of a country hack, would ooze with sentimentality and nostalgia.

That’s not what you get with Brandy Clark. On her 2013 debut, “12 Stories,” she established herself as one of country’s brightest young writers and performers, and she builds on that reputation here.

Clark’s town is populated by flesh-and-blood characters like the former “Homecoming Queen,” whose humdrum life now lacks the magic and promise of youth, a single mother scraping by in “Three Kids No Husband,” and the defiant misfit of “Girl Next Door” (“If you want the girl next door, then go next door”). On “Since You’ve Gone to Heaven,” addressing her late father,

the singer laments “the broken pieces of the Norman Rockwell dream.”

Which is not to say it’s all a downer. The music is bright and radio-friendly — this is about as well-crafted as mainstream country gets — and Clark has a knack for sending up small-town foibles with affectionate humor, as she does on “Soap Opera” and the title song. Even “Broke,” about hard times on the farm, treats a serious topic with a light, even subversive, touch: “The white left the picket, the fleas left the hound, yeah/ And even the crickets have moved into town/ Now we get our kicks off stuff we can grow … .”

And Clark obviously gets hers from writing trueto-life stories.

— Nick Cristiano, The Philadelphia Inquirer

E8 - Thursday, June 30, 2016

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area June 30- July 7 SUNDAY.3

ANA POPOVIC, THE NAUGHTY BOYS 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $15-35.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

MARCO VAN ROOIJEN PHOTO

Thursday.30

Saturday.2

Friday.1

“The Last 5 Years”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $10. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

THEATER ”The Flick”: 7:30 p.m., Black Box Theater, 819 Camano Ave., Langley. $14-18. outcastproductions.net.

THEATER ”The Flick”: 7:30 p.m., Black Box Theater, 819 Camano Ave., Langley. $14-18. outcastproductions.net.

“The Last 5 Years”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $10. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

MUSIC Bellingham Festival Of Music: Lynn Harell (cello), 7:30 p.m., Western Washington University Performing Arts Center, 516 High St., Bellingham. $12-$45. 360-650-6146 or bellinghamfestival.org.

THEATER ”The Flick”: 7:30 p.m., Black Box Theater, 819 Camano Ave., Langley. $14-18. outcastproductions.net.

Sunday.3

MUSIC Ana Popovic, The Naughty Boys: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $15-35. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

The Delta Rays: 5 p.m., Fort Flagler State Park, 10541 Flagler Road, Nordland. 360-902-8604 or washingtonstateparks.us.

Tuesday.5

MUSIC Bellingham Festival Of Music: Cho-Liang Lin (violin), 7:30 p.m., Western Washington University Performing Arts Center, 516 High St., Bellingham. $12-$45. 360-650-6146 or bellinghamfestival.org.

Wednesday.6

MUSIC The Dip with The Austerman File: 6 p.m., 1300 block of Bay Street, Bellingham. Free. 360-527-8710 or downtownbellingham.com.

Bellingham Festival of Music Orchestra Players: noon, Whatcom Museum of History and Art, Rotunda Room, 121 Prospect St., Bellingham.

Free. bellinghamfestival.org.

Thursday.7

MUSIC Chris Eger Band and the Powerhouse Horns: 6 p.m., Riverwalk, downtown Mount Vernon. Free. 360424-6237 or mountvernonchamber. com.

Bellingham Festival Of Music: Calidore String Quartet, 7:30 p.m., Western Washington University Performing Arts Center, 516 High St., Bellingham. $12-$45. 360-650-6146 or bellinghamfestival.org.

Thursday, June 30, 2016 - E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TUNING UP Playing at area venues June 30-July 7 Thursday.30

The Jet City Players: 9 p.m., Swinomish Casino & Lodge, Main Stage, 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes. 888288-8883 or swinomishcasinoandlodge. com.

Elizabeth Park Summer Concert: CC Adams Band featuring Mary Ellen Lykins, 6 to 8 p.m., Elizabeth Park, 1000 Walnut St., Bellingham. Free, but donations accepted. 360-305-0536.

Brian Lee and the Orbiters: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

Trish Hatley, Reuel Lubag and John Anderson (jazz): 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

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

Tanya Hladik: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-3991805.

The Afrodisiacs & Mr. Pink: 9:30 p.m., Tulalip Casino, Canoes Cabaret, 10200 Quilceda Blvd., Tulalip. 888-2721111 or tulalipresortcasino.com.

Friday.1

FRIDAY.1

PETUNIA & THE VIPERS 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Loft, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $12-15. 360-445-3000.

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

Polly O’Keary and the Rhythm Method (blues): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10. 360445-3000.

The Skeptix Guitar Duo: 8 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360766-6266.

Hall Pass: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino & Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-275-2448.

Randy Norris and Jeff Nicely: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Nick Vigarino: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-3991805.

Petunia & The Vipers (Latin, country, rock, blues): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, Bard Loft, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $12-15. 360-445-3000.

Curley Taylor and Zydeco Trouble: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3956.

The Alkis: 9:30 p.m., The Brown Lantern, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover.

360-293-2544.

Hall Pass: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino & Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-275-2448.

The Jet City Players: 9 p.m., Swinomish Casino & Lodge Main Stage, 12885 Casino Drive, Anacortes. 888-288-8883 or swinomishcasinoandlodge.com.

Chris Eger (solo unplugged): 8 p.m., Longhorn Saloon, 574 Cains Court, Bow. Free.

360-766-6330.

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

SATURDAY.2

THE WALRUS 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

The Afrodisiacs: 9:30 p.m., Tulalip Casino, Canoes Cabaret, 10200 Quilceda Blvd., Tulalip. 888-272-1111 or tulalipresortcasino. com.

Saturday.2

Marcia Kester: 7 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

Members and signed-in guests only. 360-8488882.

Every Leaf Band: 9 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. $7. 425-7375144 or 360-629-6500.

The Walrus: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360766-6266.

Stranded Dogs: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3956.

Our Fallen Heroes, Strait A Students: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6. 360778-1067.

Cosmos Dream: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner.

360-399-1805.

Stone Revolver: 6 p.m., Tulalip Casino, Canoes Cabaret, 10200 Quilceda Blvd., Tulalip.

888-272-1111 or tulalipresortcasino.com.

The Nines!: 9:30 p.m., Tulalip Casino, Canoes Cabaret, 10200 Quilceda Blvd., Tulalip. $10. 888-2721111 or tulalipresortcasino.com.

Sunday.3

The Bow Diddlers: 5:30, Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison.

No cover. 360-7666266.

Cherry Cherry (tribute, Neil Diamond): 8 p.m., Tulalip Casino, Canoes Cabaret, 10200 Quilceda Blvd., Tulalip.

888-272-1111 or tulalipresortcasino.com.

Monday.4

Ann ‘n Dean: 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., Sedro-Woolley American Legion Hall, 701 Murdock St., Sedro-Woolley. 360-855-5111.

Tuesday.5

The Popoffs: 10 p.m., Tulalip Casino, Canoes Cabaret, 10200 Quilceda Blvd., Tulalip.

888-272-1111 or tulalipresortcasino.com.

Wednesday.6

Time3Jazz: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720.

Thursday.7

Scratchdog Stringband (rockgrass): 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $7. 360445-3000.

Queens Bluegrass: 6 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley. 360982-2649.

Meinhardt Merry: 7:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner.

360-399-1805.

E10 - Thursday, June 30, 2016

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

HOT TICKETS STEVE TYRELL: Through July 3, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

BOSTON: July 1, WAMU Theatre, Seattle. 800-7453000 or Ticketmaster.com.

LYLE LOVETT AND HIS LARGE BAND: July 2, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

GREG ADAMS AND EAST BAY SOUL: July 5-7, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

STEVEN TYLER: July 8, McCaw Hall, Seattle. 800745-3000 or livenation. com.

ALICE IN CHAINS: July 8, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or stgpresents.org.

BONEY JAMES: July 8-10, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

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

BRIAN REGAN: July 9, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or stgpresents.org.

GOO GOO DOLLS WITH COLLECTIVE SOUL AND TRIBE SOCIETY: July 9, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville. 800745-3000 or ticketmaster. com.

ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK TASTE OF CHAOS TOUR with DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL, TAKING BACK SUNDAY: July 9, Xfinity Arena, Everett. 866332-8499 or livenation. com.

TOO SHORT: July 9, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

BABYMETAL: July 12, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

PEARL DJANGO: July 12-13, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

SERGIO MENDES: July 14-17, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

BRIT FLOYD: July 15, WaMu Theater, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

DIE ANTWOORD: July 15, Marymoor Park, Redmond, 888-929-7849 axs. com or stubhub.com.

PHISH: July 15-16, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

29TH WINTHROP R&B FESTIVAL with ROBERT RANDOLPH & THE FAMILY BAND, ALLEN STONE, the The FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS with KIM WILSON: July 15-17, 19190 Highway 20, Winthrop. 509-997-3837 or tickettomato.com, winthropbluesfestival.com.

40TH DARRINGTON BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL: July 15-17, Darrington Bluegrass Music Park, Darrington. 360-436-1179 or

PEARL DJANGO July 12-13, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com. darringtonbluegrass.com.

MEGHAN TRAINOR: July 16, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

BARENAKED LADIES: July 16, Marymoor Park, Redmond, 888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

PHILLIP PHILLPS, MATT NATHANSON WITH A GREAT BIG WORLD: July 17, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle. 206-548-2500 or zoo.org/zootunes.

DOLAN TWINS: July 17, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

MARCIA BALL: July 18, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

TWENTY ONE PILOTS EMOTIONAL ROADSHOW: July 18, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

PATTI LABELLE: July 19, Benaroya Hall, Seattle.

866-833-4747 or seattlesymphony.org.

BUCKWHEAT ZYDECO: July 19-20, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com.

DON HENLEY: July 1920, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville. 800745-3000 or ticketmaster. com.

TOAD THE WET SPROCKET: July 20,

The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

US THE DUO WITH GARDINER SISTERS: July 21, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

UB40: July 21, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle.

206-548-2500 or zoo.org/ zootunes.

STING & PETER GABRIEL: July 21, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

WAILIN’ JENNYS: July 21, Benaroya Hall, Seattle.

866-833-4747 or seattlesymphony.org.

THE CLAYPOOL LENNON DELIRIUM: July 21, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-929-7849 axs. com or stubhub.com.

THE RIPPINGTONS: July 21-24, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

THE STRING CHEESE INCIDENT: July 22, Marymoor Park, Redmond, 888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

DESERT HEARTS: July 22, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

LEE ANN WOMACK: July 22-23, Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

DEAD & COMPANY: July 23, Gorge Amphitheatre, George. 800-7453000 or livenation.com.

STEVE MARTIN AND MARTIN SHORT: July 23, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or stgpresents.org.

KENNY CHESNEY: SPREAD THE LOVE TOUR: July 23, CenturyLink Field, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

WILLY NELSON AND FAMILY: July 23, Marymoor Park, Redmond, 888-929-7849 axs.com or stubhub.com.

SUNIDHI AND AYUSHMANN: July 23, Xfinity Arena, Everett. 866-3328499 or livenation.com.

B-52s, THE ENGLISH BEAT: July 24, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle. 206-5482500 or zoo.org/zootunes.

ALBERT LEE: with Kate Taylor: July 24, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon.

360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

STYX: July 24, The Tulalip Amphitheatre, Marysville. 888-272-1111 or Ticketmaster.com.

SUBLIME WITH ROME: July 24, WaMu Theater, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

ADELE: July 25-26, KeyArena, Seattle. 800-7453000 or Ticketmaster.com.

SHAWN MENDES: July 26, WaMu Theater, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com. ”WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC: July 26-27, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle. 206-5482500 or zoo.org/zootunes.

ALBERT LEE: with Kate Taylor: July 26-27, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

ROB ZOMBIE, KORN: July 27, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

PSYCHADELIC FURS, THE CHURCH: July 27, Benaroya Hall, Seattle.

866-833-4747 or seattlesymphony.org.

MANHATTAN TRANSFER: July 28-31, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle.

206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

JOHN FOGERTY: July 29, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville. 800745-3000 or ticketmaster. com.

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

CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE FESTIVAL OF JAZZ: JONATHAN BUTLER AND GERALD ALBRIGHT, BOBBY CALDWELL, MELLIE MCKAY AND MORE: July 30, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

MODEST MOUSE, BRAND NEW: July 30, KeyArena, Seattle. 800745-3000 or Ticketmaster. com.

2016 FETE MUSIC FESTIVAL: July 30, White River Amphitheatre, Auburn.

800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

WINE COUNTRY BLUES FESTIVAL: ROBERT CRAY BAND, MAVIS STAPLES, JAMES HUNTER SIX AND SHEMEKIA COPELAND: July 31, Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville.

800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

ZIGGY MARLEY: Aug. 2, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle. 206-548-2500 or zoo.org/zootunes.

PINK MARTINI: Aug. 3-4, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle. 206-548-2500 or zoo.org/zootunes.

DAUGHTRY: Aug. 5, The Tulalip Amphitheatre, Marysville. 888-272-1111 or Ticketmaster.com.

— For complete listings, visit goskagit.com and click on “Entertainment.”

Thursday, June 30, 2016 - E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Get ready for ABC’s summer of nostalgic pop fun

By GERRICK D. KENNEDY Los Angeles Times

For anyone who has ever watched the Grammys, the scene onstage was familiar.

While the hit song being performed was recognizable, the artists were polar opposites, each from a different genre and era.

On this recent afternoon it was rootsy singer-guitarist Bonnie Raitt and emerging soul singer Andra Day. Presiding over the left-field pairing was none other than Ken Ehrlich, who as longtime executive producer of the Grammys has become a sort-of maestro of the televised, cross-generational mash-up.

As the pair worked through Raitt’s Grammy-nominated hit, “Love Sneakin’ Up On You,” Day was unable to contain her excitement. She grew up listening to Raitt with her mother, she confessed, and she let out a shriek when Raitt moved through a guitar lick.

The performance is one of many set for Ehrlich’s latest production, ABC’s “Greatest Hits,” premiering tonight. The series, over the course of six weeks, will take its lead from a formula Ehrlich perfected on the Grammys. It also hopes to tap into our love of yesteryear pop — a craze currently led by Spike’s hit show “Lip Sync Battle” as well as the popular “Carpool Karaoke” segments from late-night host James Corden.

“Greatest Hits” has a rather strict focus. The show looks back at songs that have defined the past quarter-century of pop.

There will be plenty of unique pairings shepherded by Ehrlich but also performances by the artists

who originated the hits.

And though he’s earned a reputation as a sort of mix-and-match artist, Ehrlich says there’s a method to his duet madness.

“I don’t think we wanted to reinvent the wheel with this,” Ehrlich said, seated inside an editing bay at a Hollywood studio as he worked to edit the show.

“We’re looking at this finite time in pop music, and what we tried to do is connect the dots. It’s summertime — people are looking for light entertainment. This is the kind of thing you can sit down and watch with a smile on your face.”

Each episode of “Greatest Hits” covers a five-year span of ubiquitous pop songs. Tonight’s premiere tackles 1980-85, with subsequent episodes leading up to 2005.

A breadth of contemporary artists and heritage acts representing numerous genres will appear on the series, including Cee Lo Green, Coolio, Foreigner, Miguel, Pitbull, En Vogue, REO Speedwagon, Chicago, Hanson and Wilson Phillips.

Country singer Kelsea Ballerini and comedian Arsenio Hall will host, and ABC’s run culminates with a live show on Aug. 4. (Ehrlich says he’s not finished booking performers for the finale, for which tickets will be sold).

At the time of the interview, he was three weeks into postproduction on the series, editing episodes from the “aggressive” shoot in May. A whopping 45 performances were filmed in 2½ weeks.

To accommodate dozens of artists — many of whom are currently promoting projects or touring — on differing schedules, the show was taped out of

order, with segments of multiple episodes filmed on a given day.

“It all came together. But it was tough,” Ehrlich said of the breakneck pace.

“The artists were really giving, in terms of being a part of it. It was really amazing. The right kind of artists just go with it.

They are adventurous, and they like the idea that I’m not calling to just do [their latest] single. They get a chance to stretch … and go outside their boundaries.”

“Greatest Hits” originally began three years ago when Ehrlich was developing a music series for ABC in which heritage acts would perform the hits that defined their recording career, then called “The Great American Comeback.”

“It was half of this idea, and it was a competition show,” Ehrlich explained.

“The network didn’t buy it.”

ABC circled back to Ehrlich in January while he worked on this year’s Grammys to revisit the concept of heritage acts reprising their biggest hits, but this time the focus would be on a 25-year period. Also, the competition element would be dropped.

“We started laying the show out with what we wanted. The idea of core artists doing their own songs quickly morphed into including contemporary artists. It was very collaborative,” he said. “It’s been a good marriage at the network.”

Though deeply rooted in the past, the series tackles hits in fresh ways, whether it’s the originating artist performing an updated version of a signature tune, collaborations with a contemporary artist or

newcomers paying tribute to their favorite acts.

The result is a mix of on-the-nose tributes, fun twists on old classics and Ehrlich’s signature multigenerational pairings.

Here’s what to expect: Jason Derulo will pay tribute to “his hero” Michael Jackson and Fifth Harmony looks to channel Destiny’s Child for a medley, complete with outfits inspired by the group. Country stars Little Big Town will tackle Alicia Keys’ “Fallin’,” while John Legend takes on Lauryn Hill’s beloved “Miseducation” album — a record he appeared on before finding fame.

Also look for Meghan Trainor to meet her childhood crushes, the Backstreet Boys, and LL Cool J and Wiz Khalifa to trade off on hits they released 18 years apart.

MATT SAYLES / INVISION VIA AP

Bonnie Raitt, shown performing at the Grammy Awards in February, is scheduled to appear on ABC’s “Greatest Hits,” which premiers tonight.

Explore the Baker River Enjoy a free tour of the Baker River Hydroelectric Project Make your reservation now to tour Puget Sound Energy’s largest hydropower operation, located in the beautiful, mountain-rimmed Baker River Valley near Concrete. And while you’re in Concrete, take the annual Vintage Fly-In! When: Saturday, July 23 – tour buses depart 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The tour lasts approximately three hours.

Where: Check-in / bus departure from Concrete Public Schools, 7830 S. Superior Ave., Concrete What: Tour stops include: • PSE’s Baker River Visitor Center for hydroproject overview • Overlook of Lower Baker Dam and new powerhouse • PSE’s upstream fish trap (adult fish) • Upper Baker Dam and floating surface collector (juvenile fish) • Baker River fish hatchery and sockeye spawning beds

For reservations: Phone: 360-766-5656 E-mail: tours@pse.com Limited availability, reservations required Please note: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Buses are not wheelchair-accessible; tour participants with limited mobility are encouraged to bring a friend or relative to assist getting on and off of the bus.

E12 - Thursday, June 30, 2016

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TRAVEL

Meet the new generation of travel guru: Andy Steves

By BRIAN J. CANTWELL The Seattle Times

Fatherhood’s a long journey, and if you’re travel expert Rick Steves, 61, father of Andy Steves, 29, there’s not always time for rest stops.

Throughout his childhood, Andy recalls, he, his sister and their mother would join his father in Europe every summer while the elder Steves did research and taped TV shows for his burgeoning travel-guide business. There wasn’t a lot of R&R. “When Rick Steves is in Europe, it’s always a business trip — it’s never vacation,” Andy says bluntly.

What was it like for the kids in those days when Dad was laser-focused on building his brand?

“It was intense. We’d have our daily allowance to get a gelato or something. We’d have our frustrations — walking past the camera 10 times to get it right for a shoot.”

But that all became routine, Andy says, and if imitation is in fact flattery, any childhood resentment seems washed away: Just in time for Father’s Day 2016, the younger Steves is doing a major “like father, like son” act, publishing “Andy Steves’ Europe,” his first travel guidebook.

Unless you’ve lived under a rock for 35 years, you’ll know that Rick Steves is generally considered the European travel guru (even he calls himself that in conversation).

From self-publishing his first “Europe Through the Back Door” travel guide in 1980 and leading trips through the University of Washington’s Experimental College, he’s built a little empire, with tours, best-selling guidebooks and travel wisdom doled out through a syndicated newspaper column and nationwide programs on public TV and radio. He has always emphasized traveling light and getting to know local culture.

It’s made him a millionaire, all based from his hometown Edmonds, where father and son sat

Local travel briefs WHATCOM MUSEUM HISTORY SUNSET CRUISES: Cruises on Bellingham Bay start boarding at 6:15 p.m. and return to port at 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, July 12-Aug. 30, from the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, 355 Harris Ave., Bellingham. Guests are welcome to bring a picnic-style dinner and beverages (non-alcoholic.) Ticket prices vary.

800-838-3006 ext. 1 or brownpapertickets.com.

NEWHALEM BY NIGHT: Revisit the early days of Newhalem and Seattle City Light from 4:30 to 11:30 p.m. Thursday, July 14, departing from Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. Stroll through Ladder Creek Gardens, learn about the history of the area’s water ways and hydroelectric projects, and enjoy a light show illuminating three waterfalls. $75. Register by today, June 30, at 360-336-6215 or mountvernonwa.gov.

KEN LAMBERT / SEATTLE TIMES

Travel writer and showman Rick Steves (left), with his son Andy Steves, who is following in his father’s footsteps, are shown in Rick’s Edmonds offices. In the foreground is Andy’s first travel book.

in the head office of Rick Steves’ Europe and pondered their travels through life together.

From his earliest days, “I have vague memories of running around castles — of playing hideand-seek in castles built by Mad King Ludwig,” Andy says.

As a dad, Rick aimed to engender independence and travel savvy in his son as he grew up.

Sometimes it would be a sort of trial by fire.

“In Paris, he’d put me on the next Metro (subway) car and tell me where to transfer and where to get off — and hopefully he was watching out for me,” Andy recollects.

After graduating from Lynnwood’s Meadowdale High School, Andy backpacked around Europe with a school buddy. As Rick recollects in a foreword penned for his son’s guidebook, he had primed Andy with a list of “must-see” museums, castles and galleries.

“When he came home he triumphantly declared that he had skipped most of those conventional sights and, instead, made friends in each country,” Rick recalls.

That kind of person-to-person connecting is what “carbonates”

travel, and it’s what his son is so good at, Rick says.

While Andy attended the University of Notre Dame (studying industrial design, with a minor in Italian language and literature), a foreign-study term in Italy opened his eyes to a market for the kind of help his father offers travelers — but zeroed in on college students and technology-driven millennials.

Out of school in 2010, Andy founded his own business, Weekend Student Adventures, for the backpacker crowd that pops between European capitals on $50 budget flights.

The guidebook is an outgrowth of that, as he now divides his time between Prague and Seattle.

Rick Steves say he’s not proud he didn’t make more time for family vacations in earlier days.

Nowadays, he takes his grown kids on an annual trip together — somewhere distinctly not Europe. (He and his wife divorced in 2009.)

Meanwhile, Andy seems laser-focused on building his own travel business.

“Your mom and sister would say we’re disgustingly similar,” Rick says to his son.

TILLICUM VILLAGE AND BLAKE ISLAND: Enjoy a 45-minute narrated cruise to Blake Island from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 13, departing from the Burlington Senior Center, 1011 Greenleaf Ave., Burlington, or 9 a.m to 6 p.m. departing from the Anacortes Senior Center, 1701 22nd St., Anacortes. Feast on fire-roasted fish for lunch while watching a stage performance and Northwest Native American storytelling. Lunch is included in the fee. $125. Register by July 6, at 360-766-7109 or recreationwithoutborders.com.

NORTH OF THE BORDER OUTLET SHOPPING: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 17. Meet at the Chuckanut Park and Ride Lot, exit 231 off I-5, park in the middle of the lot. Proof of citizenship required. $40.

Register by July 11 at 360-766-7109 or recreationwithoutborders.com.

HISTORICAL SAILINGS: Two visiting historical ships, the Lady Washington and the Hawaiian Chieftan, bring maritime history to life with adventure, battle and evening excursions. Times vary; the ships dock at Squalicum Harbor Marina, 2600 N. Harbor Loop Drive, Bellingham, from July 21 through Aug. 3.

Ship tours are also available. $39-$75. 800-200-5239 or historicalseaport.org.

EYE OF THE WIND AT GROUSE MOUNTAIN: Take the Peak of Vancouver’s Skyride Tramway on Grouse Mountain to see the only wind turbine that allows visitors to stand in a clear glass view at the top of the tower, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, July 25 departing from the Burlington Senior Center, 1011 Greenleaf Ave., Burlington, or 8 a.m to 5:30 p.m. departing from the Anacortes Senior Center, 1701 22nd St., Anacortes. Please note: the Eye of the Wind portion of the trip is not accessible to wheelchairs or walkers and includes an open-air chairlift ride. Proof of citizenship required to cross the border. $95. Register by July 18 at 360-766-7109 or recreationwithoutborders.com.

Thursday, June 30, 2016 - E13

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

AT THE LINCOLN

DINING GUIDE taCO and tall bOy twOSday - Giant $2 tacos and $2 tall boys of PbR or Rainier. winG wEdnESday - Jumbo hot wings with 10 different sauces. tHuRSday - brewer and distiller nights and trivia with boston bob. fRiday - top Regional dJs perform 9pm.

‌

The Lincoln Theatre will show “Sing Street” on Friday, Saturday and Monday.

Food For Thought — Mayor’s Wellness Challenge 7 p.m. today, June 30

The short film “Food for Thought, Food for Life” explains the downsides of current agribusiness practices and introduces the audience to farmers, chefs, researchers, educators and advocates who are providing solutions, according to a news release.

‘Sing Street’ 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, July 1-2 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 4

From director John Carney (“Once,” “Begin Again”), “Sing Street” takes us back to 1980s Dublin seen through the eyes of a 14-year-old boy named Conor (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) who is looking for a break from a home strained by his parents’ relationship and money troubles, while trying to adjust to his new inner-city public school where the kids are rough and the teachers are rougher.

Starring Aidan Gillen, Ben Carolan, Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Jack Reynor, Kelly Thornton, Lucy Boynton and Maria Doyle Kennedy.

Rated PG-13. $10 general; $9 seniors, students and active military; $8 members; $7 ages 12 and under. Sunday bargain prices: $8 general; $6 members; $5 ages 12 and under.

Ana Popovic 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 3

The Lincoln Theatre and the Rick Epting Foundation for the Arts present Ana Popovic, with openers The Naughty Blokes.

Popovic, the “award-winning, hard-touring, guitar slinger, blends smoking electric funk and slide guitar, jazzy instrumentals and a tight blues groove with soulful, feminine vocals.” $15-$35, with $2 off for Lincoln Theatre and Rick Epting Foundation members.

— The Lincoln Theatre is located at 712 S. First St., downtown Mount Vernon. lincolntheatre.org or 360-336-8955.

SatuRday - live Music starting at 7:30pm with dJ late.

SatuRday & Sunday - brunch menu starting at 9:30am 314 Commercial, Anacortes • 360-755-3956 See Our Menu and Event Calendar at anacortesH20.com

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MOviE MOndayS - Starting at 6:00pm plus double happy hour starting at 3.

CURLEY TAYLOR and ZYDECO TROUBLE FRI. 7/1 7:30PM

E14 - Thursday, June 30, 2016

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES

NEW THIS WEEK

MINI-REVIEWS

Spielberg, Dahl work well together in ‘The BFG’

By KATIE WALSH Tribune News Service

It makes sense that the sensibilities of Steven Spielberg and Roald Dahl would someday collide, as they do in Spielberg’s adaptation of Dahl’s “The BFG.” Both artists often tell stories about misunderstood children finding connections with misunderstood, fantastical, alien creatures. They have a knack for drawing out the dark and maudlin aspects of childhood, the loneliness and isolation, as well as the capacity for wonder and amazement, the sheer possibility of anything and everything.

That dreamy wonderment is the best part of the filmed “The BFG,” a slow haze that creeps over you unsuspected.

The film is a faithful translation of Dahl’s book, with screenwriter Melissa Mathison ably bringing Dahl’s nonsensical language of the Big Friendly Giant to cinematic life. Mark Rylance, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of a Soviet spy in Spielberg’s 2015 film “Bridge of Spies,” wonderfully inhabits the CGI character of the BFG, a gentle giant, the runt of his pack, who spends his time catching dreams and blowing them into bedrooms at night. His hillbilly British accent and creative, “squiggled” word combinations spin you up into Dahl’s inimitable style, honed by Mathison.

Opposite Rylance is the precocious Ruby Barnhill

DISNEY VIA AP

Sophie (portrayed by Ruby Barnhill) and the Big Friendly Giant (voiced by Mark Rylance) are shown in a scene from “The BFG.”

as Sophie, the orphan who spies him from her window at night, and whom he spirits away to Giant Country to keep his secret. The lonely, imaginative and smart Sophie finds an adventure in the BFG, a friend, a protector, and in Sophie, the BFG has something outside of his own curious existence to live for.

Theirs is a specific kind of friendship, finite, contained from the outset.

One does wish that it wasn’t shot so much with the affectionate gaze of a traditional romance story though.

Sophie sparks a great “rumpledumpus” in Giant Country. Her presence is quickly sniffed out by a rugby team of massive giants, with names like Fleshlumpeater and Bloodbottler, slumbering under sod blankets outside the BFG’s stone door,

hungry for human beings.

Under attack, she urges her new friend to stand up to the bullies, and even escorts him right to The Queen’s palace for a chat about giant-human diplomacy.

There’s a sweet magic in the film’s style, particularly in the twinkling aurora borealis firefly light of BFG’s dream workshop, where he collects and labels the dreams that he disperses. But there’s also a softness to the dramatic arc of the film, which doesn’t so much march forward as it wafts along, with rather low stakes and all-too-easy resolutions.

There are a few physical comedy bits that go on too long, and explosive green fart humor that does happen to be native to the original text. The third act that departs Giant Country for Buck-

ingham Palace is probably the funniest, but the fishout-of-water routine goes for broad, easy laughs, and abruptly severs the sense of ethereal incredulity within the world of the giants. Barnhill’s performance starts to feel affected. While Penelope Wilton, Rebecca Hall and Rafe Spall are nevertheless charming as The Queen and her entourage, it doesn’t feel of a piece with the rest of the film.

The most effective moments of “The BFG” are the ones that hit home with wistful emotion, but surprise with the possibilities of magic in connections — those moments that Spielberg and Dahl have defined for a generation.

— 1:57. Rated PG for action/peril, some scary moments and brief rude humor. HHH (out of four stars)

Compiled from news services.

Ratings are 1 to 4 stars.

“Swiss Army Man” — One of the weirdest movies you’re going to be concerns a stranded man (Paul Dano) and the corpse (Daniel Radcliffe) he treats as a friend and multipurpose tool. Stick with it, and it might grow on you as it grew on me — and you’ll be rewarded with maybe the best ending of any movie so far this year. Adventure comedy, R, 95 minutes. HHH “The Legend of Tarzan” — Alexander Skarsgard manages to not look silly in the most expensive and the most epic adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ King of the Jungle. But there’s always been something a bit ridiculous about the whole Tarzan premise, and there’s very little about this film that screams, YOU GOTTA SEE THIS. Adventure, PG-13, 110 minutes. HH 1/2 “Independence Day: Resurgence” — Twenty years after “Independence Day” stormed the summer box office, we get this sequel, which is nothing more than a clunky, cliche-riddled alien invasion movie from the 1950s B-movie playbook dressed up in 21st-century special effects. Sci-fi/Action, PG-13, 120 minutes. H 1/2 “Free State of Jones” — While it depicts slavery and race with a white man (Matthew McConaughey) as the leading hero, this important movie is primarily an immensely gripping tale rooted in historical fact and filled with unforgettable images and, yes, lessons that ring hard and true a century and a half later. Drama, R, 139 minutes. HHH 1/2 “Finding Dory” — Once again, the magic-makers at Pixar have created a gorgeous underwater (and occasionally above-ground) universe and a heart-tugging story involving parents and children and the true meaning of family. It’s a solid, entertaining, well-paced sequel that just doesn’t quite reach the soaring heights of the original. Animated adventure, PG, 95 minutes.

HHH

“Genius” — Even as I was rolling my eyes at the amped-up storytelling, I was digging just about every stylized visual flourish and every big performance in this fictionalized telling of the relationship between editing guru Maxwell Perkins (Colin Firth) and his most treasured, most beloved and most troublesome author: Thomas Wolfe (Jude Law). Biographic drama, PG-13, 103 minutes. HHH½ “Central Intelligence” — You can’t help but laugh at Dwayne Johnson’s endearing performance as a hulking spy who still flashes back to high school traumas and the classmate (Kevin Hart) he used to worship. But this aggressively loud buddy movie is so formulaic and dumb, you’ll probably forget you’ve seen it by the end of the year. Action comedy, PG-13, 108 minutes.H½ “Now You See Me 2” — None of this smug sequel’s impressive stars — Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo — escapes the chains of a nearly indecipherable plot, loads of clunky dialogue and so many special effects there’s nothing magical at all about the magic. Rating: Action comedy, PG-13, 129 minutes. HH½

Thursday, June 30, 2016 - E15

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES “Careful What You Wish For” — Pop idol and OK actor Nick Jonas does what he can with the underwritten part of a high school grad drawn to a wealthy man’s trophy wife. The erotic thriller is going for lusty, lurid, B-movie titillation, but it’s not nearly as sexy or clever as it would like to be.

With Dermot Mulroney and Isabel Lucas. Thriller, R, 91 minutes. HH “The Conjuring 2” — In the sequel to his razor-sharp supernatural thriller, director James Wan retains his touch for ratcheting up the tension and providing doses of comic relief, but the scary moments aren’t as fresh this time around, and “The Conjuring 2” is at least a half-hour too long. Horror, R, 133 minutes. HH½ “Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping” — Andy Samberg, who stars as a dim-bulb singer from a boy band, has collaborated with his Lonely Island partners on a pitch-perfect satire of modern-day pop stardom that clearly has a genuine admiration and affection for the very subject it hilariously skewers. It’s funny because it gets it RIGHT without ever being too mean-spirited. Comedy, R, 86 minutes. HHH½ “Money Monster” — On live TV, a finance whiz (George Clooney) is taken hostage by a gunman who lost everything following his advice. Once the premise is established, “Money Monster” kicks into a high-energy, sometimes very funny and occasionally legitimately tense thriller.

Julia Roberts co-stars. Thriller, R, 98 minutes. HHH½ “Me Before You” — Though it stars Emilia Clarke and Charles Dance from “Game of Thrones” and Sam Claflin from “The Hunger Games,” this tearjerker is nowhere near as entertaining.

The beautifully filmed and well-intentioned weeper about a bitter quadriplegic and his cheery caretaker does everything to make you cry short of flooding theaters with the overwhelming scent of onions.

Romance, PG-13, 110 minutes. HH “A Hologram for the King” — The great Tom Hanks is in prime form as an American salesman in Saudi Arabia trying to secure an IT contract from the king.

Writer-director Tom Tykwer skillfully presents a series of fantastical scenes in a way that has us thinking, “Sure, that could happen.” This is quite simply a beautiful film to behold. Drama, R, 97 minutes. HHH½ “Alice Through the Looking Glass” — Riddled with mediocre, out-of-tune work from normally outstanding actors including Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway and Mia Wasikowska, the sequel to Tim Burton’s 2010 mega-hit “Alice in Wonderland” is loud, frantic and stunningly unfunny.

It’s one of the great movie disasters of 2016. Fantasy, PG-13, 108 minutes. H½ “Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising” — This sequel’s inyour-face gags aren’t funny, just juvenile, desperate and disgusting. Even worse, “Neighbors 2” cynically tries to make a feminist statement amidst lots of downright nasty behavior by the fledgling sorority sisters who have moved next door to the hapless Rudners (Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne). Comedy, R, 92 minutes. H½ “The Meddler” — Susan Sarandon’s performance as the needy mother of a newly single TV producer (Rose Byrne) is something lovely to behold. A sitcom of a premise is imbued with depth, intelligence and numerous sweet, melancholy moments that feel just ...

right. Comedy, PG-13, 100 minutes. HHH½ “Captain America: Civil War” — At odds over collateral damage, Captain America (Chris Evans) and Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.) pick rival all-star superhero teams in a classic example of what the big-ticket summer movie experience is all about. “Civil War” keeps things moving along, with a solid balance of character soul-searching and kinetic action sequences. Superhero action, PG-13, 147 minutes. HHH½ “The Nice Guys” — In this loony, blood-spattered 1970s period piece, Russell Crowe is a deadpan hoot as a hulking thug and Ryan Gosling scores big laughs with some perfectly timed physical shtick. They’re the funniest duo of the year so far. Action comedy, R, 116 minutes. HHH “X-Men: Apocalypse” — A visual feast brimming with stellar performances, this sequel/prequel/standalone adventure breaks no fresh ground. But it contains perhaps my favorite scene of any movie this year, a super-duper-duper-duper-speed rescue by Quicksilver that’s beautiful, funny and altogether magical.

Superhero action, PG-13, 135 minutes. HHH “Zootopia” — In an all-animal world, a rabbit rookie cop (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) suspects a sly fox (Jason Bateman) in a missing-mammals case. Brimming with gorgeous visuals and terrific one-liners, this is one of my favorite animated movies, period. Animated adventure, PG, 108 minutes.

HHHH

“Love and Friendship” — Whit Stillman has done a marvelous job of adapting Jane Austen’s novella “Lady Susan” and capturing the author’s tart, rapier-sharp sense of humor. As a cruel widow scheming to marry

off herself and her daughter, Kate Beckinsale delivers one of the best performances of her career. Comedy, PG, 92 minutes. HHH½ “Maggie’s Plan” — Greta Gerwig, Ethan Hawke and Julianne Moore star in one of those movies where we eavesdrop on smart, self-involved, deeply flawed and consistently interesting people who remind us of people WE know. It’s a fine brew, equal parts cynical and whimsical, dark and sunny. Comedy, R, 98 minutes.HHH½ “Barbershop: The Next Cut” — Almost everything clicks in the new story about the regulars at a Chicago barbershop, thanks in no small part to the wonderful performances from the deep cast including Ice Cube, Common, Regina Hall and Cedric the Entertainer.

Not only is it one of the funniest movies in recent years, it’s a poignant and timely drama about neighborhood crime. Comedy, PG-13, 112 minutes. HHH½ “Demolition” — The best efforts of Jake Gyllenhaal, as an emotionally distant investment banker who reacts to his wife’s sudden death by smashing things, aren’t enough to save “Demolition” from itself. What a pretentious, uneven, off-putting, not-nearly-as-clever-as-itthinks-it-is MESS. Drama, R, 100 minutes. H½

At area theaters ANACORTES CINEMAS July 1-7 The Legend of Tarzan (PG-13): 1:15, 3:45, 6:40, 9:10 Independence Day: Resurgence (PG-13): Friday-Wednesday: 1:00, 3:40, 6:20, 9:00; Thursday: 1:00, 3:40, 9:00 Finding Dory (PG): 1:30, 3:55, 6:30, 8:55 The Secret Life of Pets (PG): Thursday: 6 p.m.

360-293-7000 CONCRETE THEATRE July 1-3 Independence Day: Resurgence (PG-13): Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: 5 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 5 p.m.

360-941-0403 BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Oak Harbor 360-675-5667 CASCADE MALL THEATERS Burlington For showings: 888-AMC-4FUN (888-262-4386) OAK HARBOR CINEMAS July 1-7 The BFG (PG): 1:10, 3:40, 6:20, 8:50 Independence Day: Resurgence (PG-13): Friday-Wednesday: 1:20, 4:00, 6:30, 9:05; Thursday: 1:20, 4:00, 9:05 Finding Dory (PG): 1:00, 3:50, 6:40, 8:55 The Secret Life of Pets (PG): Thursday: 6:10 p.m.

360-279-2226 STANWOOD CINEMAS July 1-7 The Secret Life of Pets 3D (PG): Thursday: 6:30 p.m.

The Secret Life of Pets (PG): Thursday: 6:30 p.m.

The BFG in 3D (PG): Friday-Wednesday: 3:30, 6:30; Thursday: 3:30 The BFG (PG): Friday: 1:30, 9:00; Saturday-Sunday: 10:40, 1:30, 9:00; Monday-Wednesday: 1:30, 9:00; Thursday: 1:30, 6:30, 9:00 The Legend of Tarzan 3D (PG-13): Friday: 9:15 a.m.; SaturdaySunday: 10:30, 9:15; Monday-Thursday: 9:15 p.m.

The Legend of Tarzan (PG-13): 1:20, 3:50, 6:20 Independence Day: Resurgence (PG-13): Friday: 1:10, 4:00, 6:40, 9:20; Saturday-Sunday: 10:50, 1:10, 4:00, 6:40, 9:20; Monday-Thursday: 1:10, 4:00, 6:40, 9:20 The Shallows (PG-13): Friday: 1:40, 3:55, 7:00, 9:10; SaturdaySunday: 11:10, 1:40, 3:55, 7:00, 9:10; Monday-Wednesday: 1:40, 3:55, 7:00, 9:10; Thursday: 1:40, 3:55, 9:10 Finding Dory (PG): Friday: 4:10, 6:50, 8:50; Saturday-Sunday: 11:00, 4:10, 6:50, 8:50; Monday-Wednesday: 4:10, 6:50, 8:50; Thursday: 4:10, 8:50 Finding Dory in 3D (PG): 1 p.m.

360-629-0514