360 November 24, 2016

Thursday, November 24, 2016 - E1

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Theater Arts Guild presents a Christmas classic This Weekend, Page 3

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday November 24, 2016

TUNING UP PAGE 9 Ayron Jones & The Way play the Wild Buffalo ON STAGE PAGE 8

Catch “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” in Anacortes

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “Hangover” sequels. He “Hell or High Water: Upcoming tries to add touches of Modern-day twist humor to “War Dogs,” on the Robin Hood movie releases but the jokes end up approach to economic Following is a partial shooting blanks. parity rides superb schedule of coming None of these writing, Oscar-caliber DVDs. Release dates are problems completely performances and a subject to change: sinks “War Dogs,” but serious social message they don’t help. At least to such grandeur as to NOV. 29 Phillips didn’t feel commake it one of the best n Don’t Breathe pictures of 2016. Alpelled to add a moral n Pete’s Dragon lesson to the mix. The though the theme could n The BFG audience can do that have been preachy, it n The Wild Life for him. manages to make a n Absolutely Fabulous: “War Dogs” suffers monumental statement The Movie the same problems as with quiet reserve and n Baked in Brooklyn other movies about compassion. n House of Lies: The arms dealers: No matter It’s a powerful story Final Season how good the writing about hope and despair, or performances, there success and failure, desDEC. 6 is a dark cloud hanging peration and determin The Secret Life of overhead. Marginal nation. And yet director Pets writing and so-so David Mackenzie never n Jason Bourne performances mean forces any of the sides n Don’t Think Twice movies like “War Dogs” but just presents the n The Hollars never provide enough story to the viewer to n Kicks bang for the buck. consume, debate and n Beauty & the Beast: “Mechanic: Resurthen decide.

The Final Season The result is a film rection”: Bishop must n Dead Rising: Endthat should not be come out of retirement game overlooked by Academy when his true love is n Family Guy Season Award voters. taken.

14 “Kubo and the Two “Hands of Stone”: n For the Love of Spock Strings”: The latest Biopic about the Panan Greenleaf Season 1 visual feast served up manian boxing champin Jack Goes Home by the film production on Roberto Duran. n Lego Star Wars: The company Laika is a “Nestor”: Man Freemaker Adventures blend of action and awakens in a strange n Ordinary World emotion set in a fantasy place and must fight for n Scream Queens world of the Far East. survival. n The Great Gilly Told through stunning “To Live and Die Hopkins backdrops and fanciful in L.A.”: The 1985 n The Perfect Weapon stop-motion animation, film starring William n The Remains the film looks at Kubo Petersen is available on n Trash Fire (voiced by Art ParkinBlu-ray.

— Tribune News Service “Moonlight Drawn son), a young boy who

by Clouds”: Love story lives a very spartan life follows a prestigious surviving on the stories dating advice guru who disguises he tells to those living in a small seaherself as a man to help others found side town. love.

Laika has not completely emerged “Mystery Science Theater 3000: from the shadow of the current giants Vol. XXXVII”: Includes “The Human of animation, but each film from the Duplicators” and “Escape 2000.” company shows that its own shadow “Lo and Behold: Reveries of the is growing and if this pace continues, it will take its place among the current Connected World”: Werner Herzog presents a look at the birth of the giants. internet.

“War Dogs”: The film is a big “14 Minutes From Earth”: Alan change for director Todd Phillips, Eustace makes a leap from 135,000 whose past work has featured overfeet in the air. the-top humor: “Old School,” “The — Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee Hangover, “ “Due Date” and two

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

TUNING UP / Page 9

Knut Bell plays the Longhorn Saloon in Bow.

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............................................ 6-7 On Stage.......................................................8 Tuning Up....................................................9 Hot Tickets................................................10 Music Reviews..........................................11 Travel..........................................................12 At the Lincoln...........................................13 Movies..................................................14-15 ON THE COVER Cover photo by Gary Brown

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

THIS WEEKENDin the area THEATER ARTS GUILD PRESENTS ‘A CHRISTMAS STORY — THE MUSICAL’

TURKEY TROT The 10th annual La Conner Turkey Trot 5K Fun Run will get under way at 8 a.m. today, Nov. 24, at La Conner High School, 305 N. Sixth St., La Conner. On-site registration opens at 6:30 a.m. the morning of the race.

Thanksgiving-inspired attire is encouraged. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers overall, with additional raffle prizes during the race.

Registration: $25, $15 per family/ team member (three minimum/eight maximum). Additional raffle tickets are $1 each. Proceeds will benefit the La Conner High School Track & Field Booster Club. 360-420-0423 or active. com (search for “La Conner”).

FESTIVAL OF TREES GALA

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARY BROWN

Brett Madden (left), Lucy Price, Frankie Price and Susan Shreve appear in Theater Arts Guild’s production of “A Christmas Story — The Musical.”

The colorful lineup of holiday-themed productions continues this week as Theater Arts Guild presents “A Christmas Story — The Musical,” opening Saturday, Nov. 26, and running through Dec. 10 at McIntyre Hall.

“A Christmas Story” is based on the movie classic that runs frequently every Christmas, according to a new release. Set in the 1940s in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, the musical follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts — an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle.

Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17-24. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Gavin Ross St. Clair and Kevin Cobley appear in in Theater Arts Guild’s production of “A Christmas Story — The Musical.”

Michael Turner (as Flick) is about to learn a hard lesson in Theater Arts Guild’s production of “A Christmas Story — The Musical.”

The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s 28th annual Festival of Trees Gala and Auction is at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, at Skagit Center, Christ the King Church, 1000 Fountain St., Burlington.

The Gala and Auction includes hors d’oeuvres and beverages, live music and a live auction of designer-decorated trees and other items, designer wreaths, raffles and more. Tickets: $90 until Nov. 20, then $110. Proceeds will benefit Skagit Regional Health’s Skagit Valley Kidney Center. n Breakfast at the North Pole: Enjoy a catered breakfast, professional photos with Santa, kids’ activities and more from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 25, at Skagit Center. $20, free for ages birth to 2. n Family Festival Days: The Festival of Trees will be open for public viewing from noon to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, at Skagit Center, 1000 Fountain St., Burlington. View designer-decorated trees and enjoy kids’ activities, live entertainment and more. $5, free for ages birth to 2. 360-814-5747 or skagitfestivaloftrees.org.

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

OUT & ABOUT ART

FEATURED LOCAL ART: New art from Skagit artists is on display at The Good Stuff Arts, 604 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Art includes clay sculptures by Maria Wickwire, children’s paintings by Carla Seaton, clay sculpture critters by Susan Raymond, wood vessels by Ron Moore and wood sculptures by Pat Collins. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Free.

360-755-3152 or thegoodstuff.com.

‘SEASONS CHANGE’: Scott Milo Gallery presents a new landscape series in oil by Jeanne Levasseur through Nov. 29, at 420 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Oils by Ramona Hammerly, pastels by Christine Troyer, oils by Keith Sorenson and oils by the late Don deLlamas are also on display. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and by appointment.

Free. scottmilo.com.

‘AAM ADMI’: View portraits by Indian-born photographer Ankur Jain in his exhibition ‘Aam Admi’ The Unsung Heroes: Portraits of Northern India through November at Perry and Carlson Gallery, 504 S. First St., Mount Vernon. The series explores the lives of people residing in river cities along the Ganges and Yamina rivers. The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m.

Sunday. Free. perryandcarlson.com.

‘RHYTHM OF COLOR’: i.e. gallery presents the three artist exhibit, “Rhythm of Color” at i.e.,

5800 Cains Court, Edison. Ed Kamuda, Brian Cypher and Jef Morlan all create shapes and compositions in intriguing ways with an abstract nod to the world. Free. 360-4883458 or ieedison.com.

‘OIL AND WATER’: Smith and Vallee Gallery presents the art of Karen Hackenberg from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, through Nov. 27, at Smith and Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey Ave., Edison. In this ongoing painting series, Hackenberg takes a lighthearted approach to the subject of ocean degradation. Free. 360766-6230 or smithandvalleegallery.com.

ART EXHIBITION: Original oil paintings and giclee reproductions by artist Gene Jaress of 12 Crows Studio will be on display through November at North Cove Coffee, 1130 S. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. Jaress’ atmospheric paintings explore form and color in the Skagit land and sky scapes.

North Cove Coffee is open 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Free. 360-632-8298.

‘FUN AND GAMES’: Work by artists Sue Roberts and Natalie Niblack will be on display through Jan. 6, in the Skagit Valley College Art Gallery, located in the Gary Knutzen Cardinal Center, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. The artists use a visual vocabulary of toys and games to explore concerns such as gun violence and environmental degradation.

Free. skagit.edu.

‘HONEY, I SHRUNK THE ART’: View more

than 200 pieces of fine art glass, sculptures and paintings by 40 artists at the 26th annual “Honey, I Shrunk The Art” through Jan. 15, at Matzke Fine Art Gallery & Sculpture Park, 2345 Blanche Way, Camano Island. The exhibition displays art at a shrunken price. The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, and weekdays by appointment.

Free. 360-387-2759 or matzkefineart.com.

SECRET HARBOR HOLIDAY ART SHOW: See kids’ creations, purchase holiday gifts and support Secret Harbor Kids and families during the Secret Harbor Holiday Art Show from, 2 to 6 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 26, at the Burlington Public Library, 820 E. Washington Ave., Burlington. Free.

360-755-5700, ext. 448.

ART EXHIBITION: ACME Creative welcomes artist Scott Kolbo to the gallery through November. The exhibition will feature Kolbo’s drawing and projection works that explore the comedy and tragedy that he sees in the world and in himself. ACME Creative, 705 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

Free. 360-399-6333 or acmecreative.com.

‘MAGGIE THE SHEEP’: A series of paintings by local artist Joann Ossewarde will be on display through November at Jennings Yarn and Needlecrafts, 612 S. First St., La Conner.

The series shows Maggie always in trouble in different locations around Skagit Valley. View the paintings from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. 360-4663177.

HOLIDAY EVENTS IN THE AREA VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS: Check out the historic 1891 Gaches Mansion decorated in holiday splendor from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, Nov. 23-Dec. 30, at the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, 703 S. Second St., La Conner. $7 admission, $5 students and military with ID, free for members and ages 11 and younger.

360-466-4288 or laconnerquilts.com.

“SKAGIT CHRISTMAS”: Check out exhibits showing how early Skagitonians celebrated the Yuletide season Nov. 25Dec. 31 at the Skagit County Historical Museum, 501 S. Fourth St., La Conner.

Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday through Sunday. $5, $4 seniors and ages 6 to 12, $10 families, free for members and ages 5 and younger. 360466-3365 or skagitcounty.net/museum.

BREAKFAST AT THE NORTH POLE: Enjoy a catered breakfast, professional photos with Santa, kids’ activities and more from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 25, at Skagit Center. $20, free for ages birth to 2.

FESTIVAL OF TREES GALA: The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s 28th annual Festival of Trees Gala and Auction will be held at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, at Skagit Center, Christ the King Church, 1000 Fountain St., Burlington. The gala and auction will include hors d’oeuvres and beverages, live music, a live auction of designer-decorated trees, raffles and more. Tickets: $90 until Nov. 20, then $110.

Proceeds will benefit Skagit Regional Health’s Skagit Valley Kidney Center.

FAMILY FESTIVAL DAYS: The Festival of Trees will be open for public viewing from noon to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, at Skagit Center. Enjoy kids’ activities, live entertainment and more. $5, free for ages birth to 2.

360-814-5747 or skagitfestivaloftrees.org.

to take keepsake photos. Free. 360-4663821 or christiansonsnursery.com.

HOLIDAY TEA: Join Christianson’s Nursery for the 21st annual Holiday Tea and More event from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, at Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Eat and drink tea, cider and assorted delicacies in the nursery’s 1888 schoolhouse while enjoying forest-themed decor, candlelight and the music of autoharpist Bob Harper and violinist and cellist Dennis Burkhardt. Free. Donations benefit the La Conner Library Foundation. Reservations required. 360-466-3821 or christiansonsnursery.com.

WREATH-MAKING WORKSHOP: Karen Harper will offer one-hour classes on holiday wreath-making on the hour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, at Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. An array of greens are available for purchase or bring your own. $8, includes one wreath form. Wear warm clothing and bring your own pruners and gardening gloves. Reservations required: 466-3821 or 1-800-585-8200. ”A CHRISTMAS STORY — THE MUSICAL”: The Lincoln Theatre presents a musical production based on the 1983 movie classic Nov. 26-Dec. 10 at 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $12-$24. 360-3368955 or lincolntheatre.org.

PICTURES WITH SANTA: Noon to 3 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 27 and Dec. 4, Skagit Valley Gardens, 18923 Peter Johnson Road, Mount Vernon. Enjoy hot cider, cookies and more. Free, but donations will be accepted to benefit Friendship House in Mount Vernon. 360-424-6760 or skagitvalleygardens.com.

”THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER”: Anacortes Community Theatre presents a holiday favorite Nov. 25-Dec. 17 at 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20. 360293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

INDEPENDENT WREATH-MAKING: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily Nov. 27-Dec. 24, Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Wreath forms and greens are available for purchase, or you may bring your own. Reservations required: 360-466-3821.

FATHER CHRISTMAS: Father Christmas will be in his red sleigh from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, in the South Greenhouse at Christianson’s Nursery, 15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon. Come in your holiday finest and bring your camera

CHRISTMAS CONCERT: Enjoy a Celtic Christmas Celebration with violinist Geoffrey Castle at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at the Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete. 360-941-0403 or concrete-theatre.com.

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OUT & ABOUT

ART SHOW

‘SPINELESS: PORTRAITS OF MARINE INVERTEBRATES’: The Whatcom Museum is featuring unique photographs by Susan Middleton, through Dec. 31, at the Lightcatcher building, 250 Flora St., Bellingham. The exhibition shows rarely or never-before-seen ocean dwellers, many of which inhabit Northwest waters and were photographed at Friday Harbor Marine Lab on San Juan Island. 360778-8930 or whatcommuseum.org.

ART AT MoNA: Work

by Northwest artists is featured 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. 360466-4446 or monamuseum.org. n Matched Makers: Northwest Artist Couples: Through Jan. 1: A display of the work of 28 couples who have shared creative lives.

Among the couples represented: Jacob Lawrence and Gwendolyn Knight, Robert Sperry and Patti Warashina, Fay Jones and Robert Jones, Flora Mace and Joey Kirkpatrick, Sheila Klein and Ries Niemi, Deborah Butterfield and John Buck, Daniel Mihalyo and Annie Han, and Claire Cowie and Leo Berk. ”LOCAL COLOR” ART EXHIBITION: New oil paintings by Mark Bistranin will be on display through Wednesday, Nov. 30, at La Conner Seaside Gallery, 202 N. First St., La Conner. Bis-

‌

“Open Range,” (shown) an acrylic by Liana Bennett, is one of more than 200 pieces of art glass, sculptures and paintings by 40 artists at the 26th annual “Honey, I Shrunk The Art” through Jan. 15, at Matzke Fine Art Gallery & Sculpture Park, 2345 Blanche Way, Camano Island. The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, and weekdays by appointment.

tranin’s paintings capture the light and energy in the Northwest. Also on display are paintings

by Kent Lovelace, Dave Nichols and photos by Mark Conley. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. 360-466-5141 or skagitvalleyartescape. com.

LIVE WATERCOLOR DEMONSTRATION: Local watercolor artist Peggy Woods will perform a live demonstration at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, at The Good Stuff Arts, 604 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

Learn how Woods approaches her style of painting. Food, drink and entertainment after the demo will be provided. Free. 360-755-3152 or thegoodstuff.com.

ART EXHIBITION: ACME Creative welcomes local artists Kathleen Faulkner and AnnMarie DeCollibus to the gallery through December. The exhibition features Faulkner’s northwest scenes and DeCollibus’ functional water inspired vessels and tableware. An artist reception will be held from 6 to 9 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 2, at ACME Creative, 705 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

Free. 360-399-6333 or acmecreative.com.

‘50 GREATEST PHOTOS’: “National Geographic’s 50 Greatest Photographs” will continue through Jan. 15, at the Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher Building, 250 Flora St., Bellingham. The exhibition includes Steve McCurry’s Afghan girl, Nick Nichols’ image of Jane Goodall with a chimpanzee and Thomas Abercrombie’s view of Mecca. Visitors will learn

the stories behind the photos through text panels and video interviews with the photographers.

The Lightcatcher is open from noon to 5 p.m.

Wednesday through Sunday. Admission: $10, $8 youth/student/senior/ military, $5 ages 2-5, free for children under 2 and museum members. 360778-8930 or whatcommuseum.org.

Conner Regional Library, 614 Morris St., La Conner. Trees will be on display during library hours Nov. 28-Dec. 2.

There will be People’s Choice awards for the designers and chances to take home holiday gift baskets. $35. Proceeds will support the new La Conner Library project. 360-466-3352 or lclib.lib.wa.us.

FESTIVALS

LECTURES AND TALKS

FESTIVAL OF TREES GALA: The Skagit Valley Hospital Foundation’s 28th annual Festival of Trees Gala and Auction is at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, at Skagit Center, Christ the King Church, 1000 Fountain St., Burlington.

The Gala and Auction includes hors d’oeuvres and beverages, live music, a live auction of designer-decorated trees, raffles and more.

Tickets: $90 until Nov. 20, then $110. Proceeds will benefit Skagit Regional Health’s Skagit Valley Kidney Center.

FAMILY FESTIVAL DAYS: The Festival of Trees will be open for public viewing from noon to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, at Skagit Center, 1000 Fountain St., Burlington.

Enjoy kids’ activities, live entertainment and more. $5, free for ages birth to 2. 360-814-5747 or skagitfestivaloftrees.org.

FESTIVAL OF TINY TREES: Support La Conner Regional Library at a silent auction of 16 tabletop live trees, all uniquely decorated from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 2, at La

STORIES FROM A VIETNAM FIGHTER PILOT: Hear local veteran Rev Allender share stories from his years as a fighter pilot in the Vietnam War from 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at Where the Heart Is, 410 S. Norris St., Burlington. Free. 360755-8007.

LOCAL RADIO: “Speak Up! Speak Out!,” a half-hour weekly show committed to community, peace, justice and non-violence issues broadcasts at 5 p.m.

Wednesdays and 8 p.m.

Sundays on Skagit Valley Community Radio Station KSVR 91.7 FM (Mount Vernon) and KSVU 90.1 FM (Hamilton). speakupspeakoutradio.org.

MUSIC

‘LISTENER’S CHOICE’ BAND CONCERT: The North Cascades Concert Band and Skagit Chorale present the fall concert “Listener’s Choice” at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, at Brodniak Auditorium, 1600 20th St., Anacortes.

The program is based on audience requests from the spring 2016 concert.

Free. skagitvalleychorale. org or nccband.org.

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GET INVOLVED ART

PHOTO CONTEST: The Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center presents a 20-20 photo contest in celebration of 20 years of eagle stewardship.

The top 20 photos that capture moments while eagle watching or other outdoor adventures will be selected to represent 20 seasons of eagle watching and Skagit River ecosystem education. Photos must be taken during fall and winter 2016-2017, and the deadline is Sunday, Jan. 15. One grand prize winner will receive an Eagle Float Tour by Skagit River Guide Service, and the top 20 photos will be featured on the center’s Facebook page and

HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN CONCERT SKAGIT VALLEY COLLEGE NOVEMBER 29

THE NUTCRACKER SKAGIT VALLEY ACADEMY OF DANCE DECEMBER 2, 3 & 4

SKAGIT SYMPHONY HOLIDAY CONCERT DECEMBER 9

HOLIDAY CONCERT~HOLIDAY JEWELS MOUNT BAKER-FIDALGO YOUTH SYMPHONY DECEMBER 10

HERALDING CHRISTMAS SKAGIT VALLEY CHORALE DECEMBER 10 & 11

WINTER CONCERT MVHS CHOIRS DECEMBER 14

AMAHL & THE NIGHT VISITORS PACIFIC NORTHWEST OPERA DECEMBER 16

360.416.7727

mcintyrehall.org

website. Contest is open to expert and novice photographers. Send submissions or questions to skagiteagles@ gmail.com. Contest guidelines at skagiteagle.org.

CALL FOR SCULPTURES: San Juan Islands Sculpture Park invites sculptors to submit entries for its ongoing juried sculpture review.

All sculptures must safe and should be suitable for exhibition in an outdoor setting and capable of withstanding occasional high winds, rain and possible snow.

Accepted sculptures will be installed for a twoyear period (if not sold sooner) in the 20-acre park located near Roche Harbor on San Juan Island. For complete submission guidelines, visit sjisculpturepark. com.

KNITTER’S GUILD: North Sound Knitter’s Guild will meet from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12, in the Social Room at the Stanwood Community and Senior Center, 7430 276th St. NW, Stanwood. 360387-9611.

CALL FOR INSTRUCTORS: Burlington Parks and Recreation is looking for qualified instructors to expand its enrichment classes for youths and adults. To download an instructor’s packet, visit the Parks and Recreation Department webpage at burlingtonwa.gov and click on the “Instructors Needed” tab.

For information, call 360-755-9649 or email recreation@burlingtonwa.gov.

CALL TO COLLECTORS: The Anacortes Museum, 1305 Eighth St., Anacortes, invites local collectors to participate in its “Anacortes Presents” program by putting their treasures on display at the museum for the entire community to enjoy.

Exhibits usually run about three months. For information, call 360293-1915.

CALL FOR TEXTILE & FIBER ARTISTS: The La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum will present FiberFest from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at La Conner Middle School, 404 N. Sixth St., La Conner. The oneday sale features fabrics, yarns, textiles, embellishments and tools for the quilt and fiber artist.

While finished products and wearable art are welcome, priority is given to textiles and fiber art materials. Applications will be accepted through Jan. 10, or until all slots are full. Call the museum at 360466-4288 or Karen at 360-770-5346, or email FiberFest@laconnerquilts.org.

CALL FOR ART TEACHERS: The Good Stuff Arts, 604 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, is looking for qualified, experienced beginning art teachers in watercolor, drawing, sketching and mixed media art forms. Call to schedule a meeting to show your work and discuss your experience. Kat Peterson, 360 755-3152.

CALL FOR ARTISTS: Peacehealth United General Medical Center seeks artists to display

and sell art in their facility, 2000 Hospital Drive, Sedro-Woolley. Artwork must be framed and ready to hang, with a wire hanger — no sawtooth hooks. Attach a label with the artist’s name, title of work, size, medium and price. All artwork is subject to approval by committee.

Artists are responsible for hanging and removal of their work, which will be displayed for three months.

Contact Barb Kaufman at 360-856-7530 or bkaufman@peacehealth.org.

AUDITIONS

”KING JOHN”: Auditions for Shakespeare’s “King John” will be held at 3:30 and 6 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 28, and at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, at Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon.

A one-minute audition piece is encouraged.

The production will run Feb. 24-March 5 at the Phil Tarro Theatre.

For more information find “SVC Drama” on Facebook. ”OF MICE AND MEN”: Auditions at 2 p.m. Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10-11, at the ACT Annex, 1020 11th St., Anacortes. Prepare for cold readings of the script; perusal scripts are available in the ACT office. Call to schedule an audition. Production runs Jan. 27-Feb. 8. 360293-6829 or acttheatre. com. ”ARSENIC AND OLD LACE”: Open auditions at 7 p.m. Monday

THANKSGIVING MEALS Thanksgiving Day is today, Nov. 24. Here are some Thanksgiving meal options: ANACORTES: A community Thanksgiving dinner will be served from noon to 4 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 24, at the Eagles Hall, 901 Seventh St., Anacortes. Enjoy a turkey dinner with all the fixings. Call a day ahead to request delivery within Anacortes. The event is free, but donations are accepted. To volunteer or sign up for meal delivery, call 360-293-3012.

MOUNT VERNON: Friendship House, 108 Snoqualmie St., will serve a Thanksgiving brunch from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., and dinner from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 24. There is no charge, but donations are welcome.

360-873-8022.

SEDRO-WOOLLEY: The annual Sedro-Woolley Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be

through Wednesday, Dec. 12-14, at the Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden.

The production will run Thursdays-Sundays, Feb. 16-March 15. 360354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com. ”GODSPELL”: Open auditions at 7 p.m.

Monday through Wednesday, Feb. 27-28 and March 1, at the Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden. The production will run Thursdays-Sundays, May 4-21. 360-354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com.

served from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 24, at Cascade Middle School, 905 McGarigle Road, Sedro-Woolley. This traditional feast is free to all members of the community. Donations are accepted. For information or to volunteer, contact Stephanie at 360-8550231 or slokkebo@yahoo. com.

Meals to be served after Thanksgiving Day: ALGER: The Alger Community Thanksgiving Potluck is set for 1 to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 26, at the Alger Community Hall, 18735 Parkview Lane, Alger. Bring a side dish, drink or dessert to share, and a non-perishable donation for the Alger Food Bank.

If you have pictures or stories about the Alger Community, bring those as well. Help decorate the Christmas tree after dinner. Free. For information, call 360-724-0340 or email algercommunityhall@yahoo.com.

DANCE

BALLET AND TAP CLASS: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation will offer a dance class for children ages 3 to 5, from 10 to 10:45 a.m.

Tuesdays, Nov. 29-Dec. 13, at Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. Students learn phrasing and terminology of ballet and tap while building grace, poise and strength as well as practicing the building blocks, positions and preparatory steps of each dance. $40.

Registration required.

Call 360-336-6215.

Thursday, November 24, 2016 - E7

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

GET INVOLVED MOMMY AND ME DANCE CLASS: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation will offer a dance class for children ages 1 to 3, from 9:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Nov. 29-Dec. 13, at Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. Moms will love the exercise and kids will love learning dance, coordination, balance, rhythm and stretching. Child should be walking to participate. $30. Registration required. Call 360-3366215.

BEGINNING CUBAN SALSA AND RUEDA CLASSES: Learn the basics of Cuban salsa and rueda from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, through Dec. 28, at The Studio@Riverside, 2226 Market St., Mount Vernon. Classes taught by Havana-born instructor Yasmare Gonzalez. $12 drop in rate, or $40 for four classes. 360-223-7151 or cubasere.com.

MOVING MEDITATIONS: The Dances of Universal Peace will be held from 6 to 8 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 11, 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. 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.

COMMUNITY DANCES: The Bayview Corner summer street dance will move indoors for the winter with a series of family-friendly

SKAGIT VALLEY HOSPITAL FOUNDATION dances from 6 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 14, at The Bayview Community Hall, 5642 Bayview Road, Langley. Local band Krash Zen will play. Free to attend, beer and wine will be available for purchase.

360-321-4145.

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 Bay View Civic Hall, 12615 C St., Mount Vernon. Learn to folk dance to a variety of international music.

Instruction begins at 7 p.m. followed by review and request dances until 9:30 p.m. The first session is free, $3 thereafter. All are welcome.

No partners needed. For information, contact Gary or Ginny at 360766-6866.

A “Balkanrama” dance party will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19. Potluck begins at 6 p.m. followed by dancing with live music at 7:15 p.m. $10 suggested donation.

SCOTTISH DANCING: Bellingham Scottish Country Dancers meet from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Wednesdays at the Fairhaven Library auditorium (upstairs), 1117 12th St., Bellingham. Wear comfortable clothes and soft-soled shoes without heels. $8 per class. For information, call Mary Anderson at 360-933-

1779 or visit bellinghamscd.org.

JOLLY TIME CLUB: Have fun and dance to live music 1 to 3:30 p.m.

Thursdays at Hillcrest Lodge, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon. For information, contact Gisela at 360-424-5696.

I N PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H

ASSOCIATED PETROLEUM PRODUCTS PR ESE N T T H E 2 016

CLOG DANCING FOR BEGINNERS: Free lesson from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by regular clog dancing from 11 a.m. to noon 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 360-4244608.

MUSIC

BARBERSHOP HARMONY: Want to sing in a four-part Barbershop harmony? Attend a free, no-commitment rehearsal of the An-OChords. 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 acoustic old time music at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Fridays of each month at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland.

St. Free; donations accepted. Information: 630-1156.

NEW LOCATION N • Skagit Center • Christ the King Church 1000 Fountain Street • Burlington, WA

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25

9 - 11 a.m. $20 per guest

Advanced ticket purchase required.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Noon - 5 p.m. $5 per guest Sponsored by Skagit Bank

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. $5 per guest Sponsored by Life Care Center of Skagit Valley

Sponsored by Thomas Cuisine Management Advertising Sponsor: Skagit Publishing

Proceeds will benefit Skagit Regional Health’s Skagit Valley Kidney Center.

For more information, visit SkagitFestivalofTrees.org or call 360-814-5747

E8 - Thursday, November 24, 2016

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area November 25-December 3 Friday.25

Friday.2

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Saturday.26

”A Christmas Story — the Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17-24. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

THEATER “The Happy Elf”: 7:30 p.m., Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden. $12, senior/student $10, child $8.

360-354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com.

THEATER “The Happy Elf”: 7:30 p.m., Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden. $12, senior/student $10, child $8.

360-354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com.

THEATER “The Happy Elf”: 2 and 7:30 p.m., Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden. $12, senior/student $10, child $8. 360-354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com.

”Cheaper by the Dozen”: 7 p.m., Burlington-Edison High School, 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. $5-9. be.wednet.edu.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com. ”A Christmas Story — the Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17-24. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

COMEDY Frank Caliendo: 7 p.m., Tulalip Casino, Orca Ballroom, 10200 Quilceda Blvd., Tulalip. $45. 888-272-1111 or tulalipresortcasino.com.

Sunday.27

THEATER “The Happy Elf”: 2 p.m., Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden. $12, senior/student $10, child $8.

360-354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com.

CRAIG PARRISH / SKAGIT VALLEY HERALD

FRIDAY.25

”THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER” 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com. (Back row, from left) Sydney Ramsden, Macy Yanega, Cassius Tossavainen, Max Harrison and Jake Harrison; and (front row) Willow Seixas, Niamh Gross and Kiaha McEwen.

”A Christmas Story — the Musical”: 1:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17-24. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

MUSIC Skagit Valley Chorale, North Cascades Concert Band: 3 p.m., Brodniak Hall, 1600 20th St., Anacortes.

Free; donations appreciated. skagitvalleychorale.org or nccband.org.

Tuesday.29

MUSIC ”Holiday Countdown”: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $5-15. 360-416-7727 Ext. 2 or mcintyrehall.org.

Thursday.1 SUBMITTED PHOTO

THURSDAY.1

”CHEAPER BY THE DOZEN” 7 p.m., Burlington-Edison High School, 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. $5-9. be. wednet.edu.

THEATER “The Happy Elf”: 7:30 p.m., Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden. $12, senior/student $10, child $8.

360-354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com. ”The Price is Right Live”: 7:30 p.m.,

Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St., Bellingham. $35, $49. 360734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com. ”A Christmas Story — the Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17-24. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org. ”Cheaper by the Dozen”: 7 p.m., Burlington-Edison High School, 301 N. Burlington Blvd., Burlington. $5-9. be.wednet.edu.

MUSIC Christmas at the Playhouse: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Boulevard, Oak Harbor. $15.

360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

Geoffrey Castle Celtic Concert: 7 p.m., Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete. concrete-theatre.com.

DANCE ”The Nutcracker”: Skagit Valley Academy of Dance: 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $20-$37. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

MUSIC ”Peace on Earth — Carols of the World”: Cantabile Chamber Choir: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes United Methodist Church, 2201 H. Ave., Anacortes. $815. 425-312-4565.

Christmas at the Playhouse: 7:30 p.m., Whidbey Playhouse, 730 SE Midway Boulevard, Oak Harbor. $15.

360-679-2237 or whidbeyplayhouse. com.

Saturday.3

THEATER “The Happy Elf”: 2 p.m., Claire vg Thomas Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden. $12, senior/student $10, child $8.

360-354-4425 or clairevgtheatre.com.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $20. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com. ”A Christmas Story — the Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $17-24. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Thursday, November 24, 2016 - E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TUNING UP Playing at area venues November 25-December 2 Friday.25

Shiloh: 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., Sedro-Woolley American Legion Hall, 701 Murdock St., Sedro-Woolley. 360855-5111.

Knut Bell: 8 p.m., Longhorn Saloon, 5754 Cains Court, Bow. Free.

360-766-6330.

North by Northwest: 8:30 p.m., Big Lake Bar and Grill, 18247 Washington 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Kyle Gass Band: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $15.

360-778-1067 or shakedownbellingham.com.

Chali 2na & The Funk Hunters: 9:30 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W Holly St., Bellingham. $15. wildbuffalo.net.

Sean Bendickson: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-5881720.

Ben Starner: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway.

360-445-3000.

Jam Night/Open Mic: 8 p.m., Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon, 27021 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood. No cover. 425737-5144 or locobillys. com.

Friday.2

Latigo Lace: 9 p.m., The Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

Marvin Johnson: 6 p.m., Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham. 360-3923100 or hotelbellwether. com.

Nick Anthony and Friends: 8-11 p.m., Evelyn’s Tavern, 12667 Highway 9, Clear Lake.

360-399-1321.

Castletown: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway.

360-445-3000.

Nick Anthony and Friends: 8-11 p.m., Evelyn’s Tavern, 12667 Highway 9, Clear Lake.

360-399-1321.

Good Vibrations: 6 to 9 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks Lodge, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

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

Thursday.1

RJB PHOTO

FRIDAY.25

KNUT BELL 8 p.m., Longhorn Saloon, 5754 Cains Court, Bow. Free. 360-766-6330.

Saturday.26

Shiloh: 7:30 to 11:30 p.m., Sedro-Woolley American Legion Hall, 701 Murdock St., Sedro-Woolley. 360855-5111.

Castle, Mos Generator, Year of the Cobra, Dryland: 9:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $8. 360-778-1067.

Latigo Lace: 9 p.m., The Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

CC Adams Band: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-755-3956 or anacortesh2o.com.

Ayron Jones & The Way: 9 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W Holly St., Bellingham. $8. wildbuffalo.net.

Marvin Johnson: 6 p.m., Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham. 360-3923100 or hotelbellwether. com.

Nick Vigarino’s Back Porch Stomp: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $12. 360-445-3000.

North by Northwest: 8:30 p.m., Big Lake Bar and Grill, 18247 Washington 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Alicia Dauber Quintet: 4:30 p.m., Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Belling-

ham. 360-392-3100 or hotelbellwether.com.

Tuesday.29

Chad Peterson Trio: 5 p.m., Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham. 360-3923100 or hotelbellwether. com.

Funk Factory: 9 p.m., The Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

‘Muse Bird Cafe’: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10.

360-445-3000.

Naughty Blokes: 8:30 p.m., Big Lake Bar and Grill, 18247 Washington 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

The Dip: 9:30 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W Holly St., Bellingham. $8. wildbuffalo.net.

Funk Factory: 9 p.m., The Skagit Casino Resort, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow. 877-2752448 or theskagit.com.

Mark DuFresne Band: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $12. 360-4453000.

Naughty Blokes: 8:30 p.m., Big Lake Bar and Grill, 18247 Washington 9, Mount Vernon. 360-422-6411.

Nick Anthony and Friends: 8-11 p.m., Evelyn’s Tavern, 12667 Highway 9, Clear Lake.

360-399-1321.

Wednesday.30 Swingnuts Jazz: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-5881720.

Mark Ashworth: 5 p.m., Hotel Bellwether, 1 Bellwether Way, Bellingham. 360-3923100 or hotelbellwether. com.

SATURDAY.26

AYRON JONES & THE WAY 9 p.m., Wild Buffalo, 208 W Holly St., Bellingham. $8. wildbuffalo.net.

E10 - Thursday, November 24, 2016

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

HOT TICKETS RUFUS DU SOL: Nov. 25, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or axs.com.

THE DOLLOP: Nov. 25, Neptune Theatre, Seattle.

206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

THEE OH SEES: Nov. 25, Neumos, Seattle. 206709-9442 or neumos.com.

GEORGE BALANCHINE’S “THE NUTCRACKER”: Nov. 25-Dec. 28, McCaw Hall, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

FRANK CALIENDO: Nov. 26, Tulalip Casino, Orca Ballroom, 10200 Quilceda Blvd., Tulalip.

888-272-1111 or tulalipresortcasino.com.

JAMES VINCENT MCMORROW: Nov. 26, The Showbox, Seattle. 888929-7849 or axs.com.

ENCANTO HOLIDAY OPERA: Nov. 26, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 800-7453000 or ticketmaster.com.

CAR SEAT HEADREST: Nov. 26, Neptune Theatre, Seattle. 206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

EMANCIPATOR: Nov. 26, The Crocodile Cafe, Seattle. 206-441-4618 or thecrocodile.com.

POLYRHYTHMICS: Nov. 26, Neumos, Seattle.

206-709-9442 or neumos. com.

DAUGHTER: Nov. 27, Neptune Theatre, Seattle.

206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

DRAGONETTE: Nov. 27, Neumos, Seattle. 206709-9442 or neumos.com.

A DRAG QUEEN CHRISTMAS: Nov. 28, Moore Theatre, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

BOOKA SHADE: Nov. 28, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 or axs.com.

ROBERTA GAMBARINI: Nov. 29-30, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle.

206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

ANDERSON, RABIN AND WAKEMAN: Nov. 30, Moore Theatre, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

BROTHERS OSBORNE: Dec. 1, Neptune Theatre, Seattle. 206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

MOON DIAL: Dec. 1, Neumos, Seattle. 206-7099442 or neumos.com.

LOUIS THE CHILD: Dec. 1, The Showbox, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or axs.com.

SLEEPING WITH SIRENS: Dec. 1, The Showbox SODO, Seattle.

888-929-7849 or axs.com.

THE SLACKERS: Dec. 1, The Crocodile Cafe, Seattle. 206-441-4618 or thecrocodile.com.

KAMASI WASHINGTON: Dec. 2, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 800-7453000 or ticketmaster.com.

A JOHN WATERS CHRISTMAS: Dec. 2, Neptune Theatre, Seattle.

206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

THE PRETTY RECKLESS: Dec. 2, The Showbox SODO, Seattle.

888-929-7849 or axs.com.

CHRIS ROBINSON BROTHERHOOD: Dec. 2, Neumos, Seattle. 206-7099442 or neumos.com.

AURORA: Dec. 2, The Showbox, Seattle. 888929-7849 or axs.com.

TOMMY EMMANUEL: Dec. 3, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

BRIDGET EVERETT: Dec. 3, Neptune Theatre, Seattle. 206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

LEE FIELDS & THE EXPRESSIONS: Dec. 6, Neumos, Seattle. 206-7099442 or neumos.com.

1077 THE END’S DECK THE HALL BALL: Dec. 6, KeyArena, Seattle. 800745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

JIM JAMES: Dec. 6, Neptune Theatre, Seattle.

TOMMY EMMANUEL Dec. 3, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

CHASE RICE: Dec. 6, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 or axs.com.

WILD CHILD: Dec. 7, Neumos, Seattle. 206-7099442 or neumos.com.

YOUNG THUG: Dec. 7, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or axs.com.

THE DANDY WARHOLS: Dec. 7, The Showbox, Seattle. 888-9297849 or axs.com.

SNOOP DOGG: Dec. 8, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or stgpresents.org.

GIRAFFE TONGUE ORCHESTRA: Dec. 8, Neumos, Seattle. 206-7099442 or neumos.com.

MICHAEL KIWANUKA: Dec. 8, The Showbox, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or axs.com.

CURTIS SALGADO: Dec. 9, Everett Theatre, Everett. www.historiceveretttheatre.org. ”A CHRISTMAS CAROL, THE MUSICAL”: Dec. 9-11, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

LIVE WIRE! WITH

LUKE BURBANK: Dec. 9, Neptune Theatre, Seattle.

206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

LOUIS C.K.: Dec. 10, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. stgpresents.org.

KIDZ BOP KIDS: Dec. 10, Neptune Theatre, Seattle. 206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

RYAN CARAVEO: Dec. 10, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 or axs.com.

STEVIE NICKS: Dec. 11, KeyArena, Seattle, 800745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

ROONEY: Dec. 11, Neumos, Seattle. 206-7099442 or neumos.com.

OLD DOMINION MEAT AND CANDY TOUR: Dec. 11, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or axs.com.

HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH: Dec. 13-18, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. stgpresents.org.

CHRIS TOMLIN: Dec. 13, McCaw Hall, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or LiveNation.com.

IN FLAMES & HELLYEAH: Dec. 13, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-9297849 or axs.com.

ROBERT GLASPER EXPERIMENT: Dec. 14, Neptune Theatre, Seattle.

206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

THE ALBUM LEAF: Dec. 14, Neumos, Seattle.

206-709-9442 or neumos. com.

TIG NOTARO: Dec. 15, Moore Theatre, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.

SWEATER BEATS: Dec. 15, Neumos, Seattle. 206709-9442 or neumos.com.

TACOCAT: Dec. 15, The Showbox, Seattle. 888929-7849 or axs.com.

ILIZA: Dec. 16, Neptune Theatre, Seattle. 206682-1414 or ticketmaster. com.

CASH CASH: Dec. 16, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or axs.com.

RED FANG: Dec. 16, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 or axs.com.

EBI: Dec. 17, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 800-7453000 or ticketmaster.com.

MUDHONEY: Dec. 17-18, The Crocodile Cafe, Seattle. 206-441-4618 or thecrocodile.com.

DAVID BAZAN’S

CHRISTMAS MIRACLE: Dec. 18, Neumos, Seattle.

206-709-9442 or neumos. com.

NEUROSIS: Dec. 19, Neumos, Seattle. 206-7099442 or neumos.com.

THE SOUNDS: Dec. 20, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 or axs.com.

DANCING WITH THE STARS LIVE: Dec. 21, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. stgpresents.org.

MANATEE COMMUNE ON ICE!: Dec. 23, Neptune Theatre, Seattle. 206-6821414 or ticketmaster.com.

BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA: CHRISTMAS ROCKS!: Dec. 26, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or stgpresents.org.

STRAIGHT NO CHASER: Dec. 27, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 800-7453000 or ticketmaster.com.

MACHINEDRUM: Dec. 27, Neumos, Seattle. 206709-9442 or neumos.com.

ILLENIUM: Dec. 29, The Showbox, Seattle. 888929-7849 or axs.com.

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA: “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve”: Dec. 31, KeyArena, Seattle. 800745-3000 or LiveNation. com.

BEATS ANTIQUE: Dec. 31, The Showbox SODO, Seattle. 888-929-7849 or axs.com.

HELL’S BELLS: Dec. 31, The Showbox, Seattle.

888-929-7849 or axs.com.

HENRY ROLLINS: SPOKEN WORD: Jan. 2, Neptune Theatre, Seattle.

206-682-1414 or ticketmaster.com.

A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION WITH CHRIS THILE: Jan. 7, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or stgpresents.org.

‘FINDING NEVERLAND’: Jan. 10-15, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or stgpresents.org.

Thursday, November 24, 2016 - E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Join us at the Swinomish Chevron GRAND REOPENING!

MUSIC REVIEWS A TRIBE CALLED QUEST, “We got it from Here … Thank You 4 Your service” — “We got it from Here … ” leads the way by a long distance in 2016’s “better than it has any right to be” sweepstakes.

The first album in 18 years by the early 1990s Native Tongues rappers, who seemed to be out of commission even before rapper Malik “Phife Dawg” Taylor died in March, turns out to be an effortless-sounding, acutely intelligent, joyful offering that never comes off as overbusy or cluttered even as it packs in cameos from Busta Rhymes, Elton John, Jack White, Kanye West, André 3000, and Kendrick Lamar.

The latter three fit into the category of rappers influenced

by Tribe’s expansive musical palette and Phife, Q-Tip, and Jarobi White’s dexterous verbal gymnastics, which are fully on display here on an album the group was working on in secret before Phife’s death. Serious matters are discussed, starting with the opening tour de force, “We the People … ,” in which both Tip and Phife rhyme about police violence and intolerance. But the whole album floats with Ali Shaheed Muhammad’s light-as-a-feather throwback beats. “We got it from Here … ” arrives with a sense of purposeful optimism that’s most welcome and surprising on an album the surviving band members say will be their last.

— Dan DeLuca, The Philadelphia Inquirer

VARIOUS ARTISTS, “Feel Like Going Home: The Songs of Charlie Rich” — Now here is an artist ripe for rediscovery. The cover of this tribute features a quote from Sun Records’ Sam Phillips: “I don’t think I ever recorded anyone who was better as a singer, writer and player than Charlie Rich.” The silver-haired piano man went on, post-Sun, to achieve big country-pop success in the ‘70s with such hits as “Behind Closed Doors,” but he’s not as well-remembered as he should be.

This album could help rectify that.

— Nick Cristiano, The Philadelphia Inquirer EMELI SANDE, “Long Live the Angels” — Everybody loves a good breakup album, whether it’s Dylan, Gaye, or once-married Tammy Wynette and George Jones’ dueling divorce recordings of the mid-’70s. The stress of romance gone asunder parsed through a series of songs is a delirious proposition. Then there’s Scottish-raised, Zambian Brit crooner Emeli Sande, whose winning brand of buoyant soul documented her new, still-struggling marriage (2012’s “Our Version of Events”) and now her bruised bustup, with “Long Live the Angels.”

Rather than salt wounds with the skittering drum-and-bass grooves of her debut, Sande seeks down-tempo rhythms and stirring theatrical melodies to tell her “Angels’” tale but rarely goes over-the-top diva. After the grandeur, heartbreak, and belt-

ed-out soul of “Highs & Lows” and “Every Single Little Piece,” Sande treats the broken promises and skunked passions of songs such as “Hurts,” “Give Me Something,” and “I’d Rather Not” with a quiet jazz, soul, and folk nuance that’s something between slow Sade and spare, nuanced Sarah Vaughn.

Grab your handkerchiefs.

— A.D. Amorosi, The Philadelphia Inquirer CONOR OBERST, “Ruminations” — Conor Oberst is 36 now, and the former wunderkind singer-songwriter once celebrated for the precocity of his work as Bright Eyes has been making records for so long he’s easily taken for granted. But this true solo project — recorded in 48 hours with only the backing of his own acoustic guitar, piano, and harmonica, after he moved from New York back home to Omaha, Nebraska — demands attention. It benefits both from dark-nightof-the-soul musings that come with a brush with mortality (he canceled tour dates last year after a cyst was discovered on his brain) and the bitterness that beckons with youth slipping away. “Closing my eyes, counting sheep,” he sings. “Gun in my mouth, trying to sleep.”

Oberst has said he penned “You All Loved Him Once” about the burdens placed on popstar oracles such as John Lennon, but he could have written it about his own once-worshipful audience. — Dan DeLuca, The Philadelphia Inquirer

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E12 - Thursday, November 24, 2016

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

TRAVEL

Klosters offers alpine skiing, royal connection

By GREGORY KATZ The Associated Press

KLOSTERS, Switzerland — It’s easy to find a beautiful small town hidden away high in the Swiss Alps, one with fine food, challenging slopes and a welcoming, fireside atmosphere.

It’s not so easy, however, to find one favored

by British royals, a place where you might find yourself sharing a cable car with the future king of England, Prince Charles, or one of his dashing offspring, Prince William and Prince Harry, who first learned to ski here.

The royal connection — one of the cable cars is even named after Charles — has shaped the public’s perception of the tiny town of Klosters in Switzerland, but it’s only one of many reasons to visit.

It’s actually traditional, not flashy, and offers skiers, hikers and those simply seeking rest and relaxation a quiet sense of tranquility not found in many glitzier, more crowded Alpine resorts.

That may be what has drawn Charles, with his well-documented distaste for impersonal, high-rise modern architecture, a scourge that afflicts some of the newer ski havens in France and Italy.

Klosters has remained largely unchanged over the decades, effortlessly maintaining its small town charm. It’s fun after skiing just to walk the back streets and admire the beautifully carved doors and other wood decorations that

Local travel briefs MAYAN CULTURE: Peter Martin will present “The Mayan People of Copán, Honduras” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Martin will share insights into the lives and culture of the Maya. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityofanacortes.org.

LIFE IN CUBA: Ronan Ellis will present “Cuba 57 Years after the Revolution” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Ellis traveled to Cuba under the People-to-People program and will offer a slideshow discussion of what life is like now and their hopes for the future. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityofanacortes.org.

RACE TO ALASKA: Jake Beattie, Executive Director of the Northwest Maritime Center and creator of the R2AK race, will speak at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Free.

360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library.cityofanacortes.org.

CHRISTIAN PERRET / DESTINATION DAVOS KLOSTERS VIA AP

This undated photo provided by Destination Davos Klosters shows a downhill skier in the Madrisa ski area above Klosters, Switzerland. The tiny town of Klosters, high in the Swiss Alps, is known as a favorite ski destination among the British royal family.

adorn many of its older houses. The town has a sense of unhurried history — tourists started coming some 150 years ago, centuries after the first monastery was built here — and it’s so snow-oriented that inexpensive wood sleds are stacked high outside the main grocery story.

Klosters is connected to the larger, more built up town of Davos, known for the annual World Economic Forum — and for its excellent mountaintop restaurants. In skiing terms, the two towns comprise one huge resort. The combined skiing is magnificent, and the slopes are often uncrowded.

The mix of terrain focuses on mid-level skiers, with an emphasis on neatly groomed slopes, and it’s always exhilarating to ski to a new village or find a new restaurant tucked away on the

lesser known runs. The high altitude hiking is phenomenal.

Part of what sets Klosters apart from resorts in other countries is the unmatched Swiss railways, which make getting to Klosters a true pleasure. It’s a joy to arrive at Zurich Airport, catch a train that skirts two beautiful lakes, then, after a simple switch, arrive in Klosters roughly two hours later. It’s the best way to acclimate, to enjoy the mountain views and the rushing rivers without the hassle of renting a car and managing new roads.

It’s a perfect example of what makes European travel so alluring: Instead of sitting isolated in a car trying to decipher road signs in an unfamiliar language, you spend time in a train often filled with other skiers, includ-

ing, inevitably, some English-speaking locals with well-informed opinions about the best place to ski, eat and drink. It’s also very easy to use the trains to travel to nearby towns at the start of the ski day, providing convenient access to new terrain.

The scenery along the way can be astonishing, and it’s hard not to admire the audacious engineering that went into the construction process. Needless to say, the trains run on time.

The easy run from Zurich makes Klosters an attractive day trip for youthful skiers eager to get in a day’s skiing without having to pay for lodging. Passengers on the early morning trains tend to be wearing ski gear and munching energy bars as the trains climb toward Klosters and other nearby ski towns.

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

For information or to register, call 360-336-6215. Next up: n Granville Island and Van Dusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights: 12:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14.

Enjoy time for shopping and a no-host meal before heading to Van Dusen Gardens, transformed into a winter wonderland complete with elves, light shows, strolling carolers and more. A valid passport, DMV enhanced driver’s license or NEXUS card is required to cross the border. Ages 8 and older, under 18 with adult supervision. $72. Preregister by Dec. 7.

ESCORTED TOURS: The Whatcom County Tour Program offers a variety of day trips and longer tours, with most trips departing from and returning to the Bellingham Senior Activity Center, 315 Halleck St., Bellingham.

For information or to register: 360-733-4030, ext. 1015, or wccoa.org/index.php/Tours. Next up: n Victoria Holiday Escape Tour: Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 6-7. Spend two days on Victoria’s inner harbor.

Enjoy holiday traditions with trademark British flair, witness a traditional Victorian Christmas, sightsee at Ogden Point and Clover Point, tour the Butchart Gardens decked out in holiday lights and more. $399.99 per double occupancy, or $461 per single occupancy.

Trip includes hotel accomodation, admission at select stops, all ferry fees and all fees and taxes. Passport or enhanced driver’s license is required. n Vancouver Carol Ship Dinner Cruise: Thursday, Dec. 15.

Spend a magical winter evening aboard a festive carol ship in Vancouver, British Columbia. Listen and sing along with carolers as they sing classic holiday songs, and view an array of illuminated ships while viewing prominent Vancouver water features. Includes a holiday buffet with slow-roasted turkey and honey-glazed ham. $158 per person. Includes transportation, ship entry, holiday dinner and tour escort.

Passport or enhanced driver’s license is required.

Thursday, November 24, 2016 - E13

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

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Set in the 1940s in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, the musical follows 9-yearold Ralphie Parker and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts — an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle.

All the iconic scenes from the movie are here: Ralphie’s friend, Flick, getting his tongue stuck to the flagpole; his brother, Randy, getting dressed in his snowsuit; the bullies, Farkus and Dill; the leg lamp award; the bunny suit; the Chinese restaurant; Christmas dinner; and many others.

“A Christmas Story — The Musical” will bring an exciting new dimension to those who have seen the movie and will certainly stand on its own for those who haven’t. $24, $20, and $12, plus applicable fees. Thursday, Dec. 1 is Bargain Night, all seats $15 available day of show only.

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E14 - Thursday, November 24, 2016

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES

NEW THIS WEEK

MINI-REVIEWS

Brad Pitt disappoints in ‘Allied’

By KATIE WALSH Tribune News Service

Brad Pitt has obviously taken a keen interest in the milieu of the World War II film, having starred in “Inglorious Basterds,” “Fury” and now “Allied.”

But while the previous two focused on the grimy battlefield relationships of men, the quieter “Allied” takes on the tussle of intimate partnership in times of war. This one is especially complicated since the couple met as spies posing as man and wife.

It’s fair to draw a line between 2005’s “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” in which Pitt and Angelina Jolie starred as a pair of married spies, and “Allied,” in which he stars with Marion Cotillard as a pair of married spies.

With that context, and a seductive introduction in Casablanca, Morocco, one expects “Allied,” directed

by Robert Zemeckis, to be a dose of sexy, dangerous, globe-trotting glamour.

Pitt is Canadian intelligence officer Max Vatan, dispatched to Morocco to liaise with French resistance fighter Marianne Beausejour (Cotillard) in a plot to take out the Nazi ambassador.

Acting as a pair of married Parisians, the duo discover real feelings for each other. “I keep the emotions real,” Marianne says of her successful undercover tactics.

Soon the couple is in London, shacking up with their new baby while Max takes a desk job. Within a year, British intelligence

DANIEL SMITH/PARAMOUNT PICTURES VIA AP

In this image released by Paramount Pictures, Marion Cotillard right and Brad Pitt appear in a scene from “Allied.”

is questioning Marianne’s identity and asking Max to test his wife, leaving out false information to see if she passes it along.

The gorgeous stars, sumptuous costuming and exotic period setting that we’re initially promised are a bit of a bait-andswitch from what “Allied” turns out to be.

The movie is too sad and too dark to fulfill the fantasy that is laid out in the first part of the film, which is a nod to realism and nuance on the part of Zemeckis and screenwriter Steven Knight. But that doesn’t make for a film that’s necessarily any fun to watch.

The muted palette, methodical plotting and concealed emotions make for a film that slowly simmers instead of reaching

a roiling boil of drama.

When you expect the film to pop, it narrowly averts any extremes or action.

Part of this is due to the identification with Max as the main character — Pitt plays him so steadily that he’s stiff, and the performance is near wooden.

There are a few compelling sequences. A mission behind enemy lines in France where Max flies to question a one-armed drunk about his wife’s identity is suspenseful and exciting, but ends with a sense of dark violence and nihilism that wafts over the entire film like a fog.

There are also a few baffling moments as well, such as their daughter’s birth outside on the streets of London during an air raid, which tests the suspension of disbelief. Lizzy

Caplan is given truly short shrift (and an atrocious wig) in an all-too-underdeveloped role as Max’s lesbian sister.

There’s a poignancy to the underlying themes about marital trust — can you ever really know the entirety of the person that you marry? What makes a marriage that is founded on deceit? Is love more important than country?

Zemeckis and Knight scale these large ideas down to a manageable story in “Allied,” but they don’t draw out enough emotion to make it truly effective and emotionally wrenching, despite the rafts of sorrow in which it’s steeped.

— 2:04. Rated R for violence, some sexuality/ nudity, language and brief drug use. HH½

Compiled from news services.

Ratings are 1 to 4 stars.

“Bleed for This” — Miles Teller gives the performance of his career as Vinny Pazienza, a boxer who won the title then fought to come back after a horrific car accident fractures his neck. As Vinny’s trainer, Aaron Eckhart takes what could have been a cliched role and turns it into something special. This is one of the best movies of the year. Sports drama, R, 116 minutes. HHHH “Nocturnal Animals” — Director Tom Ford tells parallel stories of a gallery owner (Amy Adams) reading a novel by her ex as the ex (Jake Gyllenhaal) lives the story. For all of the exquisitely framed and expertly lit sequences, for all the valiant efforts by some of the finest actors around, it left me as cold and unaffected as just about any prestige, A-list project I’ve seen all year. Drama, R, 117 minutes. HH “Christine” — Playing a tightly wound TV reporter who in 1974 committed suicide on the air, Rebecca Hall gives one of the great performances of the year in this intense, stomach-churning, unblinking drama based on a true story. Biographical drama, R, 115 minutes. HHH “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” — There’s a whole lot of movie going on in this expansion of the J.K. Rowling cinematic universe. The origin story of “magizoologist” Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne, bursting with absentminded professor charm) is populated with critters ranging from the tiny and whimsical to the enormous and ferocious. The result is an effective if not everlasting magical spell. Fantasy, PG-13, 123 minutes. HHH “Dog Eat Dog” — Director Paul Schrader harks back to a more politically incorrect age with a bloody, trippy, bare-fanged pulp thriller featuring terrifically entertaining performances from old dogs Nicolas Cage and Willem Dafoe. Crime thriller, not rated, 93 minutes. HHH “Loving” — In writer-director Jeff Nichols’ rather tepid love story and legal drama, Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga are undeniably good as a real-life interracial couple convicted in 1958 of violating Virginia’s anti-miscegenation statute. I was impressed. I just wish I’d been more deeply moved. Drama, PG-13, 123 minutes. HH½ “Arrival” — As confusing as it is enlightening, Denis Villeneuve’s high-end alien invasion movie tells of a linguistics expert (Amy Adams) called upon to communicate with extraterrestrial visitors. Even most of the what-the-heck moments are beautiful and challenging and cool in a thought-provoking, intergalactic kind of way. Sci-fi thriller, PG-13, 116 minutes. HHH½ “Hacksaw Ridge” — Director Mel Gibson dishes out the symbolism and the sermonizing in blunt and unrelenting fashion in a gruesomely effective and ultraviolent World War II movie about a man (Andrew Garfield, rising to the occasion) who was so nonviolent he refused to pick up a gun, even during combat in Okinawa. War drama, R, 130 minutes. HHH “Almost Christmas” — A wonderful cast including Danny Glover, Gabrielle Union and J.B. Smoove is unable to rescue writer-director David E. Talbert’s family comedy/drama, which contains precious few genuine laughs and even fewer legitimately earned heart-tugging moments. Comedy drama, PG-13, 112 minutes. H½

Thursday, November 24, 2016 - E15

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES “Moonlight” — Gorgeous and yet bleak, uplifting and yet sobering, writer-director Barry Jenkins’ modern masterpiece chronicles pivotal periods in boyhood, adolescence and adulthood in the life and times of one person played by three skilled actors. This is a film brimming with memorable work. Drama, R, 110 minutes. HHHH “Jack Reacher: Never Go Back” — The first “Jack Reacher” was a dud. This one’s worse.

Nearly every scene plays like a near-parody of a Tom Cruise actioner. It’s apropos that Cruise often is seen wielding a cellular device because this is the very definition of phoning it in. Action, PG-13, 118 minutes. H½ “American Pastoral” — Ewan McGregor is the director and miscast lead actor in a ponderous, stagey-looking, emotionally uninvolving, unpleasant and often shrill adaptation that loses most of the memorably heartbreaking elegance and deep insight of Philip Roth’s novel. Drama, R, 126 minutes. H½ “The Accountant” — Madness abounds in this intense, intricate, darkly amusing and action-infused thriller starring Ben Affleck as a seemingly mild-mannered accountant savant who also is arguably the most dangerous killing machine on the planet. It doesn’t always add up but who cares, it’s BIG FUN. Thriller, R, 128 minutes HHH½ “Kevin Hart: What Now?” — In a concert film shot at a Philadelphia stadium, cameras catch the comedian in close-up as he mocks himself, imitates family members and spins outrageous anecdotes spun from kernels

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of real-life experiences.

He’s really good, and he clearly enjoys what he’s doing. Stand-up comedy, R, 96 minutes. HHH “Desierto” — Gael Garcia Bernal plays the de facto leader of a group of Mexicans who have illegally crossed the U.S. border. From the moment a freelance migrant hunter (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) fires the first chilling shot, “Desierto” becomes nothing more than a wellfilmed but sadistic thriller.

Thriller, R, 94 minutes. HH “The Birth of a Nation” — Writer-director Nate Parker also stars in this violent historical drama as Nat Turner, leader of a slave rebellion in 1830s Virginia. He reaches with both hands for greatness and falls short, but this is nevertheless a solid, strong and valuable piece of work. Historical drama, R, 120 minutes.

HHH “American Honey” — A crew of hard-partying adolescent runaways and misfits going from town to town selling

magazine subscriptions is the launching point for this original, sometimes breathtaking depiction of a certain slice of American life. A brilliant and startling slap to the senses.

Drama, R, 162 minutes.

HHH½ “Denial” — A Holocaust denier sues one of his critics in a powerful but often stilted drama bolstered by great performances from Timothy Spall and Tom Wilkinson and nearly sunk by Rachel Weisz’ shaky New York accent.

Despite the drawbacks, the power of the story shines through. Drama, PG-13, 110 minutes. HHH “The Girl on the Train” — Emily Blunt gives a fine performance as the complex alcoholic fixated on her ex, his wife and their seemingly perfect neighbors in a murder mystery that gets tripped up by its own screenplay and grows increasingly ludicrous and melodramatic. This is no “Gone Girl.” Thriller, R, 112 minutes. HH “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” — Tim Burton’s adaptation of the popular children’s book about a school for freakishly gifted children is a messy, confusing, uninvolving mishmash of old-school practical effects and CGI battles. It’s like watching a master musician play a piano he somehow doesn’t realize is out of tune. Fantasy, PG-13, 122 minutes. H½ “Deepwater Horizon” — Mark Wahlberg and Kurt Russell play the real-life good guys aboard the oil rig before and after the explosion and fire that created the largest offshore oil spill in history. This is a wellmade, sometimes horrifyingly realistic re-creation of events, but it often feels like a formulaic disaster

film. Disaster action, PG-13, 97 minutes. HHH “Queen of Katwe” — This uplifting story of a poor Ugandan girl with a knack for chess follows the formula of Disney sports movies, but works because of Mira Nair’s energetic direction and an endearing cast led by Lupita Nyong’o and newcomer Madina Nalwanga.

Sports drama, PG, 124 minutes. HHH “The Magnificent Seven” — A team of mercenaries is hired to protect a mining town in a rousing, albeit sometimes cheesy, action-packed Western bolstered by Denzel Washington’s baddest lead performance and some of the most impressively choreographed extended shootout sequences in recent memory. Western action, PG-13, 133 minutes. HHH “Snowden” — Who better than master filmmaker/agitator Oliver Stone to direct, in sometimes rambling fashion, the story of the techno-whiz who leaked thousands of classified documents? Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s performance in the title role is so good we can understand most of the moves Snowden makes — even if we’re not buying the hagiography Stone is selling.

Biography-Drama-Thriller, R, 138 minutes. HHH “Bridget Jones’s Baby” — From start to finish, the third “Bridget Jones” movie seems strangely out of touch.

It’s so predictable and so cloying and so insulting to the audience, it’s a wonder star Renee Zellweger and all parties involved didn’t just shrug their shoulders and walk off the set in defeat halfway through the movie. Comedy, R, 122 minutes. H½

‘Rules Don’t Apply’ is a frantic mess

By KATIE WALSH Tribune News Service

What better way to round out the month of November 2016 than with a hectic, over-stuffed biopic about an eccentric billionaire despot who uses his inherited wealth to make a giant mess of things in both the entertainment industry and federal government?

Truly, there’s a deep sense of irony in the release date of Warren Beatty’s Howard Hughes film, “Rules Don’t Apply.”

And yet, it would still be a stinker even if it wasn’t cloaked in a dark shroud of cultural and political relevancy. It’s just that bad.

Beatty, on screen for the first time in 15 years, plays the notoriously weird Hollywood and aviation mogul Hughes in the film, which he directed and co-wrote.

He has rounded up every single up-andcoming young actor, his wife Annette Bening, cinematographer Caleb Deschanel, and no less than four credited film editors to aid in this endeavor, and yet the finished product is still a profoundly annoying and torturously long unstructured meander through five years of Hughes’ life, from 1959 to 1964.

The story concerns two young squires in his charge. Alden Ehrenreich and Lily Collins are the cute-as-buttons romantic leads, doomed young people who sell their souls to Hughes.

Ehrenreich is Frank, a driver for the mogul, and

Collins is Marla Mabrey, one of the numerous starlets under contract that Hughes strings along.

Marla’s devout mother Lucy (Bening), is the only person who calls out the troubling, disrespectful behavior of Hughes, and so obviously, she’s quickly dispatched.

Characters and themes aside, “Rules Don’t Apply” is one hot, frantic mess. The efforts of the four editors combined result in an itchy-edit-finger effect, and the film hurtles along at a breakneck pace, slamming from scene to scene, intercutting disparate scenes of Marla and Howard and Frank willy-nilly.

This harried editing is underscored by rapid camera movements and the soundtrack, which blares with 10-second long music cues seemingly gleaned from a golden oldies CD Beatty found under his couch.

The movie never, ever slows down to breathe, unless it’s to give room to Hughes to wax nostalgic about his life or “Daddy’s company.” It’s a true boor to sit through.

The film’s one bright spot is Collins, who is Audrey Hepburn-level adorable as the feisty, smart Marla, and proves her fast-talking screwball comedy chops. That’s why it’s all the more a shame to watch her become drunkenly entangled with the increasingly erratic and manipulative Howard.

— 2:06. Rated PG-13 for sexual material including brief strong language, thematic elements, and drug references. H

E16 - Thursday, November 24, 2016

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