Worcester Magazine December 12 - 18, 2019 by Worcester Magazine

DECEMBER 12 - 18, 2019 WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

CULTURE • ARTS • DINING • VOICES

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D efining

Performance Jeremy Lawrence says farewell to Scrooge in Hanover Theatre’s ‘A Christmas Carol’

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

IN THIS ISSUE

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019 • V O L U M E 45 I S S U E 16 Find us on Facebook.com/worcestermag Twitter @worcestermag Instagram: Worcestermag

100 Front St., Fifth Floor, Worcester, MA 01608 worcestermag.com Editorial (508) 767.9535 WMeditor@gatehousemedia.com Sales (508) 767.9530 WMSales@gatehousemedia.com President Paul M. Provost VP Multi-Media Sales Michelle Marquis Ad Director Kathleen Real-Benoit Sales Manager Jeremy Wardwell Executive Editor David Nordman Editor Nancy Campbell Content Editor Victor D. Infante Reporters Richard Duckett, Bill Shaner Contributing Writers Stephanie Campbell, Sarah Connell Sanders, Gari De Ramos, Robert Duguay, Jason Greenough, Janice Harvey, Barbara M. Houle, Jim Keogh, Jim Perry, Craig S. Semon, Steve Siddle, Matthew Tota Creative Director Kimberly Vasseur Multi Media Sales Executives Deirdre Baldwin, Debbie Bilodeau, Anne Blake, Kate Carr, Laura Cryan, Diane Galipeau, Ted Genkos, Sammi Iacovone, Bob Kusz, Helen Linnehan, Patrick O’Hara, David Prendiville, Kathy Puffer, Jody Ryan, Henry Rosenthal, Regina Stillings, Randy Weissman Sales Support Jackie Buck, Yanet Ramirez Senior Operations Manager Gary Barth Operations Manager John Cofske WORCESTER MAGAZINE is a news weekly covering Central Massachusetts. We accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts. The Publisher has the right to refuse any advertisement. Legals/Public Notices Please call (978) 728.4302, email cmaclassifieds@gatehousemedia.com, or mail to Central Mass Classifieds, 100 Front St., 5th Floor, Worcester, MA 01608

Featured ......................................................................................4 City Voices...................................................................................8 In Case You Missed It ... .......................................................10 Cover Story ...............................................................................11 Artist Spotlight .......................................................................17 Lifestyle......................................................................................18 Listen Up................................................................................. 198 The Next Draft..........................................................................20 Table Hoppin’ ..........................................................................20 Film .............................................................................................22 Film Capsules ..........................................................................22 Calendar ....................................................................................24 Adoption Option ....................................................................28 Games .........................................................................................29 Classifieds .................................................................................30 Last Call .....................................................................................31

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the cover A Defining Performance: Jeremy Lawrence says farewell to Scrooge in Hanover Theatre’s ‘A Christmas Carol’ Story on page 11

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

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The Gift of Giving What local charities need this holiday season BILL SHANER

elieve it or not, it’s Christmastime all over again. While the weeks building up to the big day can be long, stressful and full of shopping

rely on the good spirit and holiday cheer to give those of lesser means a safe and happy holiday. Friendly House, a longtime Grafton Hill institution, is preparing for its annual pre-Christmas holiday party. The organization is expecting

AIDS Project Worcester is seeking a new home, as construction of the ballpark is forcing its relocation.

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FILE PHOTO/SHAUN SUTNER

trips and package tracking, it’s important to remember that there are many in the Worcester for whom the holiday season is not only stressful, but downright unmanageable. With those people in mind, we present you the Gift of Giving, a handy rundown of charities and aid organizations doing good work in the area. Their needs are many and varied as they

hundreds, if not more than 1,000 people, to come out for music, dance and food. But they’re also coming for toys. At the end of the event, the organization opens three large rooms full of toys, arranged by age group, and the kids pick what they want. “We want to make sure all the kids that come get at least one toy,” said Susan Daly, assistant director.

On the other side of I-290, the Green Island Neighborhood Center is facing similar needs on a smaller scale. The center reopened earlier this year after a three-year closure, but already the organization is servicing dozens of families in the neighborhood. Their most pressing need is food as the organization works to stock a full food pantry. For Thanksgiving, the newly resurrected organization served about 40 families with a Thanksgiving basket, and for Christmas they’re hoping to do the same, if not more. One of the most pressing needs is books for children. The center wants to give children in the neighborhood something more substantial than toys alone. “We want to make sure we give children something with an educational side,” said Elizabeth Lopez, program director. At the Pernet Family Health Center down the street, the needs are much the same. The organization every year runs a successful program in which they match donors and families for specific toy requests. But with so much focus on toys, other priorities are falling by the wayside. “Families are spending all their money on toys, and could use money for other things,” said Sheila Dooley, executive director. “Tickets to movies, ice skating, Chuck E. Cheese.” Families could also use telephone minute cards, as this time of year they tend to cut back on phone expenses despite it being a mostly essential resource.

“It’s things like that the families need besides Christmas gifts,” she said. While nearly every organization that serves the poor is looking for toys, food and other donations, the AIDS Project Worcester is not. They have to move out of their space off Green Street to make way for the WooSox ballpark project and don’t yet have a new location, so they have no room to store physical donations. Instead, Community Relations Manager Lamar Brown said the organization is in need of monetary donations which it can in turn use on clients for things that fall outside set funding pools. With cash on hand, the organization can better help

its clients get through the holiday season, Brown said. But it’s not just people who are in need. At the Worcester Animal Rescue League, staff are facing a serious surge in cat and kitten population due to a late and particularly active cat mating season. The shelter is in need of clay litter and kitten formula for kittens who don’t have a mother. “Our kitten season is running a little behind, and we still have a bunch of kittens in foster care,” said Jenny Nicoll, an animal care technician at WARL. “We have more than we usually do.” As far as dogs go, the shelter is in search of soft dog treats for training and canned food.

Worcester Animal Rescue League is in need of clay litter and kitten formula for kittens who don’t have a mother. FILE PHOTO/ASHLEY GREEN

Tis the season to give ... and volunteer United Way wish list for 2019 holiday season

n the glitter and buzz of the busy holiday season, there still are many families and children in our community who struggle every day with homelessness, hunger or financial insecurity. Our 2019 Holiday Wish List offers many ways you can make a meaningful difference in their lives — through a charitable donation of much-needed items, or by volunteering your time at a community agency. Share what you have, what you know, or what you can. Thank you for choosing to LIVE UNITED! For questions or for more infor-

mation about our Holiday Wish List, contact United Way of Central Massachusetts at (508) 757-5631, ext. 221. When the holiday season ends, lives and needs go on. To learn how you have a positive impact in our community every day, visit www. volunteer.unitedwaycm.org.

Donate African Community Education Program (ACE) Kwame Yeboah: (508) 459-2284, kbidi@acechildren.org Donate winter clothes, winter

boots, backpacks, belts or gently used home appliances. AIDS Project Worcester Lamar Brown: (508)755-3773, lbrown@aidsprojectworcester.org Donate a variety of toys/gifts for the holidays from infant to 16 years of age. Gift items can include mittens, hats, scarves, socks, gift cards, jewelry, clothes, sports equipment, music, books and games. We are also in need of travel size personal care items, shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, wash cloths, combs, brushes, sanitary needs, deodorant etc.

American Red Cross Ray Duffy: (508) 340-3207, ray.duffy@ redcross.org When the weather turns cold, our veterans need a little extra. Please consider donating some of the following items to be distributed locally to homeless and under-served veterans: hats, gloves/mittens, socks, undergarments, sweatshirts and sweatpants. Donations must be new and still in packaging or with tags on. Andy’s Attic (clothing pantry) Christine Foley: foleyc@worcesterschools.net

Donate undergarments and shoes for all genders and sizes, winter clothing; and gift cards to large department stores. Ascentria Unaccompanied Refugee Minors Program Winnie Spillers: (860) 942-1605, wspillers@ascentria.org Donate grocery store gift cards or food/pantry staples such as rice, coffee, tea, sugar, oil, spices, etc. for distribution to unaccompanied refugees living independently. C O N T I N U E D O N N E XT PA G E

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Boys & Girls Club of Worcester Leah Motsis: (508) 754-2686, lmotsis@bgcworcester.org Donation opportunities include: adopting a family or providing gifts to the children and support (gift cards, dinner, etc.) to parents of a club famiy; adopting a child and providing gifts to a club member; donating $25 gift cards to teen members; providing gifts to kids ages 8-18; donating nonperishable food items for our food pantry; donating artificial Christmas trees (no taller than 6 feet); and wrapping supplies including wrapping paper, scissors, tape and ribbon. Broad Meadow Brook Martha Gach: (508) 753-6087, ext. 5022, mgach@massaudubon.org Donate gift cards for hardware stores; art supplies such as markers, glue sticks, easel and easel-size paper; grabbing tool, bird seed, narrow weeding rake (4-5 tines), hand-held pruners, wheelbarrow and garden cart. Central Massachusetts AFL/CIO Paul Soucy: (508) 832-4218, psoucy@ centralmassaflcio.org Donate new unwrapped toys for children ages infant to 16 years old; nonperishable holiday food such as canned vegetables, canned pineapple, baked beans, stuffing cranberry sauce and gravy.

Community Healthlink – Motivating Youth Recovery program Stephanie Manzi: (508) 860-1171, smanzi@communityhealthlink.org Donate gifts for teens who are detoxing and stabilizing from substance use, including: $5 gift cards to discount stores for stocking stuffers, small fidget items (silly putty, spinners, stress balls, etc.), and art supplies of any kind (colored pencils, markers, crayons, colored paper, adult coloring books, friendship bracelet string, gimp, etc.). Community Healthlink – North Village Community Housing Tammi Lizotte: (508) 949-8729, tlizotte@communityhealthlink.org. Donate the following for families (men, women, and children): health and beauty products; gift cards for supermarkets, dollar stores, department stores or gas; art supplies, notebooks/ journals, adult coloring books; movie passes; gloves, scarves, and hats. Community Healthlink – Sagamore Program Sharon Bliss: (508) 756-7666, sbliss@ communityhealthlink.org. Donate men’s and women’s winter coats (sizes XL-3XL), men’s sneakers (sizes 10-13), winter hats, gloves, and scarves; men’s and women’s personal hygiene products; and CD players/ radios. C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 6

CMHA Lynn Millette or Emilia Ibanez: (508) 791-1512, lmillette@cmhaonline.org/ eibanez@cmhaonline.org Donate toiletry items for families such as shampoo, conditioner, body

Community Healthlink – Adult Community Clinical Services Rebecca Everson: (508) 860-1185, reverson@communityhealthlink.org Donate winter hats, gloves, and scarves.

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Children’s Friend, Inc. Karen Ludington: (508) 983-1364, ludington@childrensfriend.org Donate gift cards for discount and grocery stores or gas cards that will be distributed to needy families and foster children during the holiday season to be used for food, clothes, transportation and gifts. Cards are needed by Dec. 19.

Community Healthlink – Crisis Stabilization Unit Shannon Maroney: (508) 421-4556, smaroney@communityhealthlink.org Donate winter socks, jackets, gloves, mittens and hats for adults who go without during the winter months; gift cards to grocery stores for holiday meals for those on the unit during the holidays.

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Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance Inc./CMHA Scattered Sites Nicole Amoako-Atta: (508) 459-6898, Namoako-Atta@cmhaonline.org Donate coats, gloves, hats, gifts for families with children ages 0-20, children’s winter boots and sneakers in all sizes; gift cards; arts and craft supplies; gift baskets; wrapping paper and holiday meals.

wash for kids, bubble bath, women’s shaving cream, disposable razors, feminine hygiene supplies. Donations of diapers especially needed. Community Healthlink – Families and Communities Together Janice Rose: (508) 373-7949, jrose@ communityhealthlink.org Donate coats, hats, gloves and scarves; art and craft supplies; food baskets; department store gift cards, grocery gift cards, gas cards and gift certificates to local business.

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plates, silverware; gift cards or toiletries.

Community Healthlink – Worcester Community Housing Program Chester Randolph: (508) 796-5896, crandolph@communityhealthlink. org. Donate the following for families (men, women, and children): health and beauty products; gift cards for supermarkets, dollar stores, department stores or gas; art supplies, notebooks/journals, adult coloring books; movie passes; and paper products (paper towels, toilet tissues, Kleenex).

Green Island Neighborhood Center Hilda Maldonado: (508) 890-2737, hmaldonado@friendlyhousema.org Donate nonperishable food; craft supplies such as crayons, colored pencils and paints; Christmas decorations, ornaments; hats and gloves and holiday books and toys.

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Dismas House Dave McMahon: (508) 799-9389, davemcmahon@dismasisfamily.org Donate grocery gift cards to help feed residents; new twin sheet sets, blankets, comforters and pillows; toiletries such as soap, toothpaste, deodorant, toothbrusges, and new towels. Family Health Center of Worcester, Inc. Lindsay MacPhail: (508) 860-7951, Lindsay.Macphail@fhcw.org Donate new items such as gloves, mittens, hats, scarves, blankets, socks, and undergarments; grocery store gift cards; newborn and pregnancy items; home first aid kits; school supplies; toiletries; and cleaning supplies. Donated items are provided to patients in need including low-income families, refugees, asylum seekers, newborns and their mothers, and students who receive care at our school health centers. Friendly House, Inc. Susan Daly: (508) 755-4362, Sdaly@ friendlyhousema.org Donate turkeys and nonperishable food, including stuffing and cranberry sauce; new and gently used winter coats for all ages; new toys for all ages, especially older children ages 9-12; and gift cards for teens to fast food restaurants, movie passes and discount stores. Greater Worcester Housing Connection Jessica Rodrigues: (508) 757-0103, JRodrigues@smoc.org Donate backpacks; coats, socks, boots, shoes, hand-warmers, foot warmers, scarves, mittens, gloves, hats, sweaters, jackets, long-johns, face warmers, bandannas; sleeping bags, thermal blankets; books, adult coloring books, crayons, markers, color pencils, crossword puzzles, puzzles, journals, pens; laundry detergent, twin sheet sets, towels,

Guild of Saint Agnes Sharon Woodbury, (508) 755-2238, swoodbury@guildofstagnes.org Donate holiday toys for boys and girls ages infant to 5 years and gift cards for older children. Horizons for Homeless Children Call (508) 755-2615 and leave a voicemail or email central@horizonschildren.org Donate crafts including Play-Doh, markers, finger paint or construction paper; or items including hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, tissues or paper towels. Donation drop-offs will be coordinated in Rutland. Jeremiah’s Inn Alyssa Dancause: (508) 755-6403, ext. 10, alyssa@jeremiahsinn.com Donate (new) twin bedding/ pillows; men’s coats, flannel shirts, (new) underwear, or T-shirts sizes L-3XL; travel-size toiletries; towels/ facecloths; gift cards; children’s toys/ clothes for Holiday Wish Program (ages 1-15). Living In Freedom Together (LIFT) Inc. Amanda Mehaffey: (774) 450-7606, amanda@liftworcester.org Donate new or gently used ladies coats, boots, and warm clothing, new packs of socks and underwear; and gift cards of all kinds. LUK Inc. Sophie Weitzman: (978) 829-2303, SWeitzman@luk.org Donate gifts for boys ages 12-18 such as gift cards to sporting goods stores, grocery stores and video gaming stores; outside winter sports equipment such as sleds, snowboards, ski equipment or skateboards; art supplies; and boys winter clothing in sizes S-XXL. Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester Elyse Waksman: (508) 754-8056, ewaksman@lvgw.org Donate gift cards, notebooks, binders, paper, books, or other supplies we can use in an adult education classroom.

Main Idea Youth and Arts Joy Murrieta: (508) 202-1292, joy@ mainidea.org Donate art supplies such as small canvases, art kits, composition notebooks, watercolor paper, scratch art, face painting kits, washable paint, sidewalk chalk and clay/Play-Doh; store-bought cookies and snacks (sealed packaging only) for Worcester Youth Holiday Concert. Food items needed by Dec. 17. MassEdCO Jessica Burris: (508) 754-6829, ext. 3007, jburris@massedco.org Donate gift cards for discount stores, pharmacy or grocery stores for moms in the Young Parent Program. Nativity School of Worcester Cindy Schofield: (508) 799-0100, ext. 104, cschofield@nativityworcester. org Donate gift cards to discount stores or grocery stores; rice, pasta, canned vegetables, oil, oatmeal, canned fruit, pasta sauce, granola bars; construction paper, poster board, colored pencils, dry-erase markers art supplies, pens and pencils; winter coats (boys and girl, sizes youth large through adult large), gloves, hats, socks, boys boxer briefs and white undershirts. NEADS (service dogs for deaf and disabled) Julie Vautor: (978) 422-9064, Jvautour@neads.org Donate gift cards to home improvement stores, discount stores or pharmacies; toys and treats for dogs such as Nylabone DuraChew bones, Blue Buffalo treats/training treats; Kongs, size XL or XXL, and durable puppy toys. Open Sky Community Services Amanda Gibbons: (508) 234-6232, amanda.gibbons@openskycs.org We are now accepting donations of $25 gift cards to ensure that every individual served has a gift for the holidays! Suggested gift cards for discount retailers, bookstores, online shopping sites, gas or grocery stores. Pernet Family Health Service Yildiz Laza: (508) 755-1228, ylaza@ pernetfamilyhealth.org Donate gifts for teenagers such as sweatshirts, wireless headphones or speakers, and gift cards; coats, hats, scarves, and gloves for children ages 0-18; grocery store gift cards; children and young adult books. Project New Hope Inc. (Veterans) William Moore: (508) 762-9738, bmoore@projectnewhopema.org

Donate gift cards for any sports stores, general gift cards from discount retailers and clothing stores for adolescent military children. Rainbow Child Development Center Nancy Thibault: (508)791-6849, nthibault@rainbowcdc.com Donate children’s clothing, especially hats, mittens, socks, jackets and water-repellent boots for children ages 6 weeks up to 13 years; new children’s backpacks; gift cards to discount stores and grocery stores. Stand Up For Kids Donna Katsoudas: (508) 963-5576, worcester@standupforkids.org Donate coats, socks, packages of underwear, hoodies in dark colors, winter boots, hand and feet warmers, hats and gloves; head phones; bus passes and gift cards for phone, food and pharmacy. Visitation House Laurie Cahill: (508) 798-8002, Cahilllaurie01@gmail.com Donate women’s adult size bathrobes, pajamas, slippers, socks, winter hats, gloves, scarves, umbrellas, winter boots in sizes 6-9 and gift cards to discount stores. Webster Square Day Care Center Di-Ann Ethier: (508) 756-3567, dewsdcc@aol.com Donate small holiday gifts for 60 preschool children ages 3–5. Donate snacks and juice for a holiday party. Worcester Comprehensive Child Care Gloria Sinclair: (508) 852-3792, ext. 103, preschool@worcestercomprehensive.org Donate hats and mittens for children and gift cards for families. Call for details. Worcester Health Care for the Homeless at Family Health Center of Worcester, Inc. Lindsay MacPhail: (508) 860-7951, Lindsay.Macphail@fhcw.org Donate new items such as gloves, mittens, hats, scarves, and socks; grocery and discount store gift cards; toiletries; and hand and foot warmers. Donated items support families and individuals experiencing homelessness who receive care through Family Health Center’s Worcester Healthcare for the Homeless programs. Worcester Housing Authority Erin Wilson: (508) 635-3306, wilson@ worcesterha.org Donate coats, boots, gloves and

hats of all sizes; and gift cards. YWCA of Central Massachusetts Jessica Diaz: (508) 767-2505, ext. 3073, jdiaz@ywcacm.org Donate clothing and outerwear for children in sizes 6 months-3T; toys and gifts for children ages newborn-age 9; gift cards for new moms. Call for sizes and wishes to adopt a specific mother and children.

Volunteer Andy’s Attic (clothing pantry) Christine Foley: foleyc@worcesterschools.net Help sort and organize clothing donations and fill orders on Dec. 14, call for times. AIDS Project Worcester Lamar Brown: (508) 755-3773, lbrown@aidsprojectworcester.org Volunteers needed for several upcoming events and we need help in setting up the hall/room, serving food, arts and crafts with children, kitchen help, breaking down and cleaning up the hall/room. Call for dates and times. Boys & Girls Club of Worcester Leah Motsis: (508) 754-2686, lmotsis@bgcworcester.org Volunteers are welcome to participate in a number of opportunities including: Serving dinner in Kid’s Cafe, Monday-Friday, 4:30-6:30 p.m.; reading a holiday story to our kids in our school aged child care department, Monday-Friday, 4-5 p.m., or leading a holiday arts and crafts project, Monday-Friday, 4-5 p.m.; and hosting a toy drive at your office or school. Broad Meadow Brook Martha Gach: (508) 753-6087, ext. 5022, mgach@massaudubon.org Help families create natureinspired holiday ornaments using natural materials. “Holiday Nature Crafts” is an open house at the Broad Meadow Brook Visitor Center on Dec. 14 from 1-4 p.m. We provide materials and instructions. Volunteers should be comfortable interacting with visitors and using glue guns. Catholic Charities Bishop’s Dinner Call (508) 860-2228 Help deliver Christmas meals to homebound individuals Dec. 25. Volunteers arrive at 9:30 a.m.

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Dismas House Artie Rosenberg: (508) 799-9389, artierosenberg@dismasfamily.org Dismas House and Dismas Family Farm are looking for volunteer cooks year-round and during the holidays to prepare a dinner for residents who are men in recovery. During weekdays, volunteers bring or prepare meals at the homes. Interested volunteers should call in advance to secure a date on the schedule. EcoTarium Teri Lynes: (508) 929-2708 , tlynes@ ecotarium.org Come and help the EcoTarium celebrate winter! Volunteers needed during Wild about Winter at the EcoTarium to assist with wintery crafts and sock skating, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m and Dec. 15, from 11 a.m.4 p.m. Volunteers also needed during Noon Year’s Eve on Dec. 31 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Assist with making time capsules, make New Year’s resolutions and assisting guests to take silly selfies. Various shift available. Friendly House, Inc. Susan Daly: (508) 755-4362, Sdaly@ friendlyhousema.org Assist us with our annual Christmas Party serving 1,000 people on Dec. 22 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., setting up and distributing toys and snacks, setting up and breaking down chairs, and crowd control.

Girls Incorporated of Worcester Anne McCarthy: (508) 755-6455, amccarthy@girlsincworcester.org Volunteer opportunities are available supporting a variety of programs. Call for more information.

Main Idea Youth and Arts Joy Murrieta: (508) 202-1292, joy@ mainidea.org Assist with the Worcester Youth Holiday Concert on the evening of Dec. 17. Duties include set up/tear down, ticketing, managing art activities and serving refreshments. Pernet Family Health Service Yildiz Laza: (508) 755-1228, ylaza@ pernetfamilyhealth.org December holiday needs include organizing and sorting undesignated gifts; picking out gifts for children; general office assistance; picking up donations; and picking up and dropping off gifts. Dates and times: Dec. 12 and 13 from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 12:30-4:30 p.m. Rainbow Child Development Center Nancy Thibault: (508)791-6849, nthibault@rainbowcdc.com Volunteers are needed to paint classroom and hallway walls; and distribute Christmas Baskets. Call for dates. Webster Square Day Care Center Di-Ann Ethier: (508) 756-3567, dewsdcc@aol.com Host a holiday party for 60 children and play Santa while providing a snack and small gift for each child. Call to schedule a convenient date. Worcester Housing Authority Erin Wilson: (508) 635-3306, wilson@ worcesterha.org Serve a holiday meal to residents at 14 sites throughout Worcester. These meals are provided daily, starting just after Thanksgiving and continue through mid-December. Volunteers are needed between 2-3 hours to assist with serving meals to residents. Call for available dates and times.

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Green Island Neighborhood Center Hilda Maldonado: (508) 890-2737, hmaldonado@friendlyhousema.org Assist the organization with distribution of holiday giveaways for clients and related events. This will include packing, organizing, and inventory. Volunteers will assist with client documentation verifying identification, family size and income. Call for dates and times.

Living In Freedom Together (LIFT) Inc. Amanda Mehaffey: (774) 450-7606, amanda@liftworcester.org Participate on a fundraising committee or help with special events.

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Greater Worcester Housing Connection Jessica Rodrigues: (508) 757-0103, JRodrigues@smoc.org Volunteers are welcome to prepare, cook and serve holiday meals. Call to schedule date.

Jeremiah’s Inn Hilda Maldonado: (508) 890-2737, hmaldonado@friendlyhousema.org Cook a weekday evening meal for 30 residents served at 4:30 p.m. anytime during the holidays. Use the fully equipped kitchen facility to share your specialty with others; groups welcome.

CITY VOICES

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

what she prays for Trump. Who would dare to question her? I suspect that Pelosi’s nowfamous pivot on stage to dress down a rude reporter came as no surprise to her children and grandchildren. I keep imagining what it would be like to get caught by Nancy smoking butts behind the garage, cutting class or kissing a bad boy. When she turned to rebuke the idea that she acts out of hatred for Trump, her family had to be watching with familiar dread. “He’s gonna get it now!” must have been the collective reaction among her kids. Only Nancy Pelosi could leave a room full of reporters stunned into silence. We’ve been clamoring for quite a while about having “no grownups in the White House.” Trump’s occupation of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. has been described frequently as a “kindergarten.” Along comes Nancy, the benevolent task master and formidable Nana. Eat your vegetables, America, or no dessert.

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Pelosi. Aside from the fact that at 79 she can march across a stage can’t keep up. I need Nancy. in stilettos with the agility of a I’m trying, but the on20-year-old, I’m grateful for her slaught of breaking news firm grasp of what matters. We regarding Donald J. Trump are a nation suffering from attenis testing the limits of my brain tion deficiency. We can’t focus to hold information. For fellow once the squirrel runs by; shiny “Seinfeld” aficionados, my head objects hypnotize us. We need feels like George Costanza’s walPelosi’s tough love. Her stern let. Every hour of every day brings insistence that we not wander off forth new allegations, adamant into the Land of Silly as mapped denials, caustic rebuttals and out by the GOP strikes me as maoutlandish conspiracy theories ternal, right down to the pointing the likes of which we haven’t finger. She sort of terrifies me, seen since the moon landing was and I love her for it. revealed to be staged. Oh, wait. By clearly differentiating That really happened, right? Yes? between the Ukraine scandal No? I thought I knew. and Trump’s myriad offenses, And that’s my point: all of the she is working hard to help us noise surrounding the impending do our homework and clean our impeachment of Donald J. Trump, rooms. Many of us have Christ45th president of what used to be mas to-do lists in our pockets, so the United States of America, is we need all the help we can get. dizzying and worse yet, leaves us By stating that his worst policies questioning our own eyes, ears were matters best rectified in the and memories. Trump’s defense, voting booth, she laser-focused since he has none, is to throw on Trump’s attempts to bribe sand in our faces until we can’t and extort favors from Ukraine see through the muck, until we in exchange for monies approved can’t distinguish up from down, by Congress for that country’s or true from untrue. When he survival against Russian aggresbecomes particularly panicked, sion. The Cliffs Notes version of he tosses out nonsensical brain the articles of impeachment, as it drippings to change the subject. were. Brilliant. Toilet flushes? Seriously? I don’t doubt Pelosi’s faith as Ah, but he’s right! We grumble a Catholic, and I do love the way that he’s trying to distract us and she’s able to deflect any accuthen we perseverate over this sations of personal animosity stuff for a day or two, until the toward Trump by insisting that next goofy thing. We fall for it she prays for him constantly. This every time, like kids faced with takes some of the bite out of the Uncle Joe’s “pull my finger” joke righteous Right, which seems to on Christmas. think it cornered the market on This is why I appreciate Nancy piety. She keeps to herself exactly

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wanted

CITY VOICES

WORCESTERIA

Is it time to get on the bus? BILL SHANER

YOUR MOVE, WORCESTER: Kansas City last week became the first

city in America to move to fare-free busing. The council there liked the idea so much, they voted for it unanimously, despite the fact that city leaders will have to find some other way to recoup the $8 to $9 million in bus fares. The council there decided that a fare-free system made good sense — it would increase ridership, make the system more equitable, boost the local economy and cut down on congestion. Meanwhile, in Worcester, we’re sitting on a Worcester Regional Research Bureau report that lays out in plain language that a farefree bus system here would do all those things. Our council, however, has decided to do just about anything but treat the idea as a matter of serious public policy. Fare-free transit is a bold idea which requires an executive body with a certain vision and courage to carry it out. With that in mind, we shouldn’t be surprised that our City Council would pass on it. You know actually, now that I think about it, there is one surefire way to get fare-free transit passed in Worcester. Larry Lucchino, pick up that phone, my man.

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THE GREAT THANKSGIVING MASSACRE: Though it is a situation ripe for a Worcesteria thrashing, I have decided I have no take whatsoever on the controversy over a Thanksgiving dress-up party type thing in the Worcester Public Schools other than this: The entire situation is stupid. Yes, the costume suggestions were insensitive (basically “dress up like an Indian the How Kind not the Dot Kind ha ha it’ll be cute”). Yes, the way we teach Thanksgiving in school masks the overtly genocidal nature of the relationship between European settlers and Native Americans. And, on the other side, yes, this is a ridiculous thing to get upset about or to spend any mental energy on. I might take some heat for this, but trying to get the townies who currently run the Worcester Public Schools to acknowledge that the Thanksgiving myths we teach our children actually amount to dark revisionist history … that’s just not going to happen. These people aren’t going to learn and every attempt to get them to learn only sours the relationship. It’s like trying to explain class warfare to your Trumpy grandfather. It’s not even worth it. Instead, it’s better to placate Grampy while quietly making sure he isn’t in any position to make real decisions for the family. Get what I mean?

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DESIGN WORKSHOPS: This is a tough one because it falls in between the time this column is expected to appear online and when the print paper comes out. But this new version of Worcester Mag is nothing if not weird, so let’s just do it. On Wednesday afternoon, the city will host a design workshop for the new skatepark planned for a corner of Crompton Park. The meeting takes place at the Green Island Neighborhood Center at 6:30 p.m. It is the second of two meetings. The first took place on Monday. If you skate or know someone who skates, it’s really important to show up for this. The city is working with a company that has skate park experience, but they really need community input to do this right. If you’re reading this after Wednesday, you can always email the parks department with suggestions at Parks@Worcesterma.gov. This park is not a replacement for Worcide, though it likely wouldn’t have gotten funding had the city not torn down Worcide. Gotta make sure this park is at least halfway decent, unlike that mess in Green Hill Park.

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT ...

Sarah Carcia at Women Crush Wednesdays Singer-songwriter Sarah Carcia was the featured artist of the monthly “Women Crush Wednesdays” series at Vincent’s, following last month’s performance by Cara Brindisi. The idea behind the series was to have talented female artists play on the first Wednesday of every month. (The other Wednesdays of the month are occupied by Duncan Arsenault’s weekly residency.) The series still seems a bit informal, but hopefully it will continue: A good idea is a good idea, after all. Photo by Ashley Green

COVER STORY

D efining

Performance

Jeremy Lawrence says farewell to Scrooge

in Hanover Theatre’s ‘A Christmas Carol’

RICHARD DUCKET T

or eight years Jeremy Lawrence hasn’t minded at all if people call him “Scrooge” when he comes for an annual visit to The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts. Indeed, the New York City actor, who will have his final turn as Ebenezer Scrooge in The Hanover Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Carol” which runs Dec. 15 to 23, is going to miss a role that he said has become part of his life. “It’s an incredibly spiritual experience for me each year, and it’s going to be very hard to lose that,” Lawrence said. The 12th annual production by The Hanover Theatre is an adaptation of the Charles Dickens 1843 novella “A Christmas Carol” by its own president and CEO Troy Siebels, who also directs. Since debuting in 2008, The Hanover Theatre show has enjoyed success with large casts, authenticlooking costumes and sets and some dazzling

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PHOTO COURTESY ERB/DUFAULT PHOTOGRAPHY

special effects, and now bills itself as the largest New England production of “A Christmas Carol.” The public performances this year will include a relaxed performance at 11 a.m. Dec. 22 — a specially adapted show, modified for adults and children who might benefit from a more relaxed environment. There will also be several school matinee performances. Lawrence came on board as the production’s second Scrooge in 2012, replacing Dale Place, who had the part the first four years. Lawrence has won widespread praise for his performances. Lawrence “delivers a tour-de-force performance once again as this iconic character,” read one review. “He makes the part fresh and new each year … mines each layer of this character fabulously from start to finish,” the review said. “I love working with Jeremy; he really finds the joy in Scrooge’s transformation and fully brings that joy to the audience,” said Siebels. “During his seven years in the role, Jeremy has helped bring the production to a new level.” The Hanover Theatre is celebrating Lawrence’s great run in the role by publicizing the 2019 production as his final year.

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“God bless us every one!” said Tiny Tim, the last of all.

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

COVER STORY

Jeremy Lawrence will reprise the role of Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol” for the final time at the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts. PHOTO COURTESY ERB/DUFAULT PHOTOGRAPHY

Stepping aside, however, was “not my choice,” Lawrence said in an interview. Asked how he feels about that, Lawrence said, “It’s very hard to come up with a simple answer to that question. I remember auditioning eight years ago for this role at a rehearsal hall in New York City and meeting Troy for the first time … We talked 15 to 20 minutes. I felt so great about the interview. I didn’t feel so great about my reading. Actors say, ‘Oh I coulda, shoulda … Then of course it did happen (being cast as Scrooge) and it’s changed my life. Doing this role has been incredibly important to me as an actor, as a human being. This has become part of my life. I know that every Christmas it’s coming. It’s not only an opportunity to exercise my craft

but to participate in a way of telling a story about Mr. Scrooge that is a story about redemption.” Siebels said, “The production evolves and changes a little bit from year to year, partly as different actors make their mark on it and partly as I explore different elements and themes to keep it fresh and relevant. I have a number of larger changes in mind for the 2020 production which will necessitate a different performer in the lead role. Knowing that this would therefore be Jeremy’s last year, we didn’t want to let the opportunity go by to celebrate that.” Lawrence had mixed emotions about it all when he spoke. “Obviously it’s important for the theater to change things up a little bit or a lot,” Lawrence said. “I understand. It’s been a great run

COVER STORY

for me and I am very grateful to the theater for this incredible experience.” Still, “After eight years the identification with the character becomes deeply ingrained. It’s a big deal to let go of this … It’s not the end of my life. As my agent said to me, ‘I’ll be happy to have you available for other stuff.’ Next year I’ll be doing something else. At this point it’s very emotional for me.” Dickens created the irritable, small-minded miser Ebenezer Scrooge who terrifies his hardwork-

Scrooge his own lonely, neglected grave. Scrooge’s relief at being alive and becoming a changed man with infectious bonhomie on Christmas morning is always something to savor. Would Larwence play Scrooge in another production? “Sure,” he said. “They’re doing a production on Broadway this year (starring Campbell Scott as Scrooge at the Lyceum Theatre). I’ve done other roles more than once. When you repeat a role it’s never the same. I’ve seen truly great theater artists

PHOTO COURTESY ERB/DUFAULT PHOTOGRAPHY

(reprise roles). Yes there’s a familiar arc to the role, but what goes on is different because it’s live. That’s part of the joy of live theater.” Lawrence has an extensive theater and television background. Outside of Worcester he may be best known for creating and starring in several one-man stage shows that explore Tennessee Williams in the playwright’s own

ing, poorly paid accounting clerk Bob Cratchit but goes through a profound transformation on Christmas Eve. That night the specter of his deceased business partner, Jacob Marley, comes to forewarn Scrooge that he is about to face his last chance at redemption. He is then visited by the Spirits of Christmases Past, Present, and Yet to Come, the latter showing

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- Scrooge (Jeremy Lawrence) is confronted by the Ghost of Jacob Marley

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

“I wear the chain I forged in life,” replied the Ghost. “I made it link by link, and yard by yard.”

COVER STORY

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019 WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY ERB/DUFAULT PHOTOGRAPHY

The Ghost of Chritmas Present appears: “And they cling to me, appealing from their fathers. This boy is Ignorance. This girl is Want. Beware them both, and all of their degree, but most of all beware this boy, for on his brow I see that written which is Doom, unless the writing be erased. Deny it!”

COVER STORY

words. Earlier in his career after establishing a name for himself (Clive Barnes called him “very promising”) in stage productions including the acclaimed Off Broadway “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead,” Lawrence moved to Los Angeles to explore TV and film. He recalled in an earlier interview that on TV he delivered Richie’s baby in an episode of “Happy Days,” threatened to immolate an original copy of the Constitution on “Night

(and, Lawrence noted, Mr. Magoo) taking on the role of Scrooge. “I’ve seen them all now. We all have some idea of who he is.” With that, “It’s not just a bad guy who gets scared by three ghosts and becomes a good guy. It’s more complicated than that,” Lawrence said. Furthermore, “I’m a different person than I was eight years ago. It’s not the same Jeremy Lawrence, and its not the same Scrooge.” On whether his performance

PHOTO COURTESY ERB/DUFAULT PHOTOGRAPHY

as Scrooge this year is different from the one people saw in 2012, Lawrence said, “Completely. But it’s different from last year and the year before that. Because it’s me and I’m older and the world is different.” The role itself is “an exhausting role. You spend one third mean, one third scared, and the final third happier than you’ve ever been in your life. You meet your death (the grave) but you get to live. And that’s a great gift to rejoice in this incredible opportunity I’ve had.” The Hanover Theatre company for the production has new faces every year but also some longstanding cast members who have also made their roles their own. “This company — we are a community that is based on the spirit of the play and I will miss that greatly. This is an ensemble show. In the end we all come together,” Lawrence said. “I will also miss the

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Court,” and married Drew Carey to his gay boss, Wick (Craig Ferguson) on “The Drew Carey Show.” Lawrence also worked at the Mark Taper Forum theater in Los Angeles where he held a number of positions, including literary manager. He began to write seriously, and when the opportunity came to bring his Tennessee Williams show “Five By Tenn” to New York he returned and stayed. He maintains a diverse career and more recently has been seen on such TV shows as “Blacklist.” The Hanover Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” was and is the only time he was cast as Scrooge, although years earlier he played Bob Cratchit at another theater. Lawrence has watched the various movie and TV adaptations over the years with (perhaps most famously of all) Alastair Sim, George C. Scott and Albert Finney

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts’ production of “A Christmas Carol” will run Dec. 15-23.

COVER STORY

What: A Christmas Carol’ When: 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 15; 7 p.m. Dec. 19; 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 21; 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Dec. 22; 7 p.m. Dec. 23. A talkback with the cast will follow the Dec. 19 performance. A portion of the proceeds from a VIP reception and the Dec. 19 performance will go to benefit Worcester Community Action Council. Enhanced audio descriptive services from Audio Journal, ASL interpretation and a pre-show tactile tour will be provided at the 2 p.m. Dec. 21 performance. Dec. 22 at 11 a.m. will be a relaxed performance with a pre-show tactile tour (www. thehanovertheatre.org/accessory19) Where: The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester How much: $28-$56. (877) 5717469; www.thehanovertheatre.org

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

audience greatly … I know there are people who have come to see me every year and I’m so indebted to them for their loyalty to me.” Lawrence said he has enjoyed visiting schools in Worcester and the students matinees where for many students the show is their first chance to see live theater. It’s a pretty good place to start, even as Lawrence nears the end of his run as The Hanover Theatre’s Scrooge. “Troy’s production is faithful to Dickens, faithful to the words, and no one tells a story better than Dickens,” Lawrence said. “It is about injustice and how it hurts people, and part of the spirit is to repair the world.”

Jeremy Lawrence has performed the role of Scrooge for eight years in The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts’ production of “A Christmas Carol.” PHOTO COURTESY ERB/DUFAULT PHOTOGRAPHY

CITY LIFE If you are an artist, or know of a local artist, email WMeditor@gatehousemedia.com. Fair warning, in order to publish your work, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to provide a small bio and high resolution digital copies of some of your art. We reserve the right to choose what will run, based on resolution and what will reproduce best on newsprint.

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019 WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

Judith Freeman Clark

is a watercolor artist who has been painting for more than 50 years. Clarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning work has been juried into more than five dozen shows, locally and throughout New England. She has done magazine and book illustrations, and has had two solo exhibitions. In 2013, she was selected to be artist-in-residence at Wachusett Regional High School ( from which she graduated in 1967). She is represented by the Creative Hands Gallery, Main Street, Osterville, Massachusetts.

CITY LIFE

LIFESTYLE

5 tips for starting your own podcast SARAH CONNELL SANDERS

important your launch is. Even though no one can see your face on a podcast, it’s important for people know, I know. It seems like to know who you are on social EVERYONE in America has a media before your first episode goes podcast right now. According to live. We focused a lot of effort on The Infinite Dial’s 2019 Edison Research report, at least 750,000 of us the @popitworcester Instagram by reaching out to photographer Justin do and listenership is growing. Hall and shop owner AJ Setaro of Why did 22% of Americans over Sweet Jane’s to help us coordinate 12 years old consume a podcast this promotional photos a month before week? The report points to flexibilour launch. Once we were off and ity — the option to do other things running, we got into the habit of while we listen, wherever we are. I taking selfies with our guests. We often rely on podcasts for entertainment during mindless housework or posted the photos along with show notes on our website www.popitwhile I’m driving. worcester.com. The domain cost just I am among the 32% of podcast $20 on Squarespace. For our 26th listeners who tune in for dialogue about entertainment and celebrity on episode, local photographer Mike at least a monthly basis. My favorite”s Hendrickson (@unitymike) offered to stop by and take some profesinclude “Pop Culture Happy Hour,” sional shots while we were taping. “Ringer Dish,” “Armchair Expert The results were incredible and we with Dax Shepard,” and Good One: watched our Instagram followers A Podcast About Jokes.” I am also among the 30% of listeners who enjoy and downloads skyrocket as a result. We soon realized that if we wanted podcasts about food, chiefly “The people to download our podcast, it Dave Chang Show” and “Eater’s Digest.” I even went so far as to start my would be vital to establish credibility own podcast with my colleague Molly using high-quality visuals. Plus, in exchange for their time, our guests O’Connor right here in Worcester. walked away with beautiful new porOn our podcast, “Pop It,” my cotraits for their resumes or portfolios. host and I tap into our love of entertainment and food intermingled with feminist voices from the community. 2. You will need a hosting service. Your podcast does not automatiOur tagline goes: “This is the podcast cally get uploaded to iTunes or Spofor popping questions, popping tify. You need a middleman to store bottles, and pop culture.” and distribute the audio file. We use It’s not perfect — far from it. But, it feels like we’re building something Libsyn. We started with a 50 mb plan for $5 a month, but soon found that is uniquely our own, and for a small investment, you can too. We’ve that there was not enough space to accommodate weekly episodes. Now, made a lot of mistakes so you won’t we pay $15 per month for 250 mb. have to. Here are the five things you Libsyn allows us to schedule publicashould know before getting started: tion and update our cover photo with ease. 1. Visuals ARE Important to a podcast’s success. A lot of blogs will tell you how

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

Sarah Connell Sanders, right, and Molly O’Connor record an episode of the “Pop It” podcast at North Main Provisions. PHOTO COURTESY MIKE HENDRICKSON

3. Invest in the right software and equipment. We started “Pop It” by collaborating with a community radio station, but found it challenging to rely on volunteer producers while subsequently accommodating the schedules of our guests. The Worcester Public Library’s latest renovations include a digital studio, which will open sometime next year. In the meantime, we partnered with a local media company, which allowed us to purchase portable Yeti Blue Microphones ($129.99 apiece), pop filters ($9.99 apiece), and Hindenburg Journalist Pro ($375) in exchange for advertising. What’s wrong with using Garageband for free? Nothing, but it won’t allow you to record with more than one mic at a time.

4. Turn off the fridge. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to record in a space without ambient noise. I learned that the best place to set up was actually a walk-in closet; although I couldn’t very well invite the Senate President Emerita ( featured in episode 34) to set up shop inside my wardrobe. Simply put, soft surfaces curb the reverberations of sound waves off walls and furniture. We’ve learned to be up front with guests about acoustics. A brew deck might be great for photos, but it won’t sound nice for our listeners. Try taping in an open room with a tablecloth under your equipment. Turn off the HVAC system and the refrigerator, if possible. Just don’t forget to turn them back on when you finish.

5. Ask open-ended questions and then shut up. Yes or no questions are conversation killers. Prepare questions ahead of time asking people to compare, make a judgement, or imagine something. It’s natural to say things like, “yes” and “uh-huh” as an active listener, but this will not play well later on. Even if you’re excited, don’t talk over your guest. It’s a bad look. Molly and I are still training ourselves to remember this with each new episode and it’s harder than you’d think. Using the “mute” button on our mics while our guest is speaking has made a huge difference. Good luck on your podcasting journey and please don’t hesitate to DM us on Instagram with questions at @popitworcester. We’re ready to listen.

LISTEN UP

Evil Felipe delivers youthful ‘June Gloom’ VICTOR D. INFANTE

To talk about “June Gloom,” the recent album by local band Evil Felipe, we first have to detour and talk about 17-year-old Grammy nominated pop star Billie Eilish, and the kerfuffle over her appearing to not know who the band Van Halen is on a late night talk show. Despite

the irrelevance of the whole incident, Eilish suffered a disproportionate amount of blowback, mostly from middle-aged men who seem disturbingly affronted that younger people are not totally fixated on the music they themselves loved as teenagers. There is no way to easily unpack the layers of privilege that come from men in their 40s dictating the musi-

cal tastes of teenage girls, so we’ll leave it at this: 1.) It’s harder to think of anything less rock ’n’ roll than insisting teens slavishly love their parents’ music, and 2.) Teens have every right to tell adult critics of their music to go jump off a cliff. Which brings us to teenage rockers Evil Felipe — guitarist Ella Staltare, drummer Maya Staltare,

guitarist-vocalist Emma Bain and bassist Felicity Kuszewski — and their new album. And quite frankly, it’s an absolutely delicious explosion of pop punk: Filled with youthful enthusiasm that finds a nice balance between being extremely straightforward and at times surprisingly catchy. It captures the tribulations of teenage heartbreak and alienation,

and delivers that feeling with verve and disarming earnestness. The band is one of 10 performing at a benefit for the Mustard Seed starting at 3 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Raven Music Hall, 258 Pleasant St., Worcester. The album kicks off with “X.O.” — a song that delivers some nice guitar

C O N T I N U E D O N N E XT PA G E

CITY LIFE

The Evil Streaks ring in a decade of decadence at Ralph’s ROBERT DUGUAY

en years can be a long time for a band. The hundreds of shows, long nights in the studio and the arduous lugging of equipment can take its toll. There’s something to be said about musicians sticking together for more than a couple of months with the amount of things that have to be dealt with. Since 2009, The Evil Streaks have been electrifying audiences in Central Massachusetts and beyond with their spooky take on rock and roll. At Ralph’s Rock Diner, 148 Grove St., Worcester, they’ll be celebrating their decennial on Dec. 13 with Portland, Maine, instrumental surf act Thee Benevolent Tarots and fellow locals Thinner and Dirty Walter & The Smelltones. With guitarists and vocalists Myra Lee and John Kozik, Too Fast Jim on drums, Justin Goodrich on the farfisa organ and The Rev on bass, The Evil Streaks have an energetic style that gets people to move around. It’s the result of an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach where quality is key.

LISTEN UP

C O N T I N U E D F R O M P A G E 18

pretty basic and it could use a bit more textual contrast throughout, but the things it does well, it does EXTREMELY well. The song “Take Me to Boston,” for example, bristles with joy and a groovy bass undertow. It’s a song that’s almost impossible to not bop along with. Likewise, “Wave Pool” finds it strength in percussive claps and vocal hooks that command attention. The album winds down to “Snow,” a lovely, sweetspirited little song that revels with a sort of joy that reverberates in each note. “Let it snow, hey-oh, hey-oh/don’t let me go, hey-oh, hey oh/out in the cold, hey-oh, hey-oh/won’t let it show, hey-oh, hey-oh.” It’s a perfect little musical moment: A little old-school punk, a little youthful romance, and an earnestness that sells it completely. It’s an utterly enjoyable album, one that harkens back to a time when rock ’n’ roll didn’t feel so heavy and serious, and each note was laden with the joy that comes in the fleeting moments of freedom music can bring. That’s a feeling that never gets old.

crowd,” The Rev adds. “I actually think a few of the people who were at that show are going to be at Ralph’s on Friday.” It’s been a couple years since The Evil Streaks put out their self-titled full-length album back in December of 2017. For the future, the band has some ideas bouncing around for new material and they will most likely be in the studio sooner rather than later. “We’ve talked about getting together and writing some stuff,” The Rev says. “This past year has been a lot of rest and recuperation with health-based issues and things like that. We’re planning on starting some new material, I wouldn’t mind a new album in a year or two at the most.” “I have notebooks all over the house filled with lyrics and riffs that I thought were kind of cool,” Lee said. “I never really finished anything and John also mentioned that he had the same thing going on at his house so we have ideas brewing. If not an album, then perhaps a song or two in 2020.”

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such as “Pantsuit” is delivered with bracing guitar at a dizzying clip. It’s fun, it’s got some bite and it feels like rock ’n’ roll is supposed to feel. “Are teenage dreams/so hard to beat,” as the Undertones once sang. It’s not a perfect album, by any stretch: The song structures are

PHOTO COURTESY MANDY NESS

“There hasn’t been a lot that has changed,” The Rev says on the past decade. “It’s because we have a sound and we like our sound. We didn’t start out with a farfisa, then we had one with Justin, and on the upcoming show we won’t have one, so we’re going back to the original sound again. Musically, I feel like we’ve been consistent.” “I think over the years we may have added a little more surf,” Lee

one can be proud of, and that’s no different for The Rev and Myra Lee. They’ve gotten to do some cool stuff with The Evil Streaks and they both look back fondly. “We did a couple of tours and it’s been years since we’ve gone on the road, but we did a couple shows in Canada and we made some great friends north of the border,” The Rev says on what he’s most proud of from being in the band. “That was a blast going up there, I loved that tour. It was so cold but it was a great time. Also when we went all the way down to Georgia and we got to play in New Orleans, it was awesome. We got to spend a day in Memphis on that tour, and we were really getting out there and playing music. Locally, nothing in particular stands out, but we’ve gotten to play tons of great shows.” “For me, getting to open for a few national acts were amazing times,” Lee says. “That time we played a Roky Erickson show at ONCE in Somerville and when we opened for Agent Orange in Providence were both a blast.” “That Roky Erickson show had the perfect lineup and an incredible

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

hooks and a slight surf inflection which preludes one of the album’s musical themes, particularly on “Surf Song” and “California Bound.” The youthful spirit of rebellion on songs

The Evil Streaks perform Dec. 13 at Ralph’s Rock Diner.

adds. “We’ve always had that element, but I feel like it was very punk rock and then gradually we started adding more surf tones. Then we would change it up and go back to being more punk again; we kind of go back and forth between those two.” There’s a certain dark aesthetic that comes with The Evil Streaks music. Take a look at their Facebook page and you see the band’s profile picture is the members reading a cookbook on killing behind a black spiderweb. It comes from a love of horror while also putting a spin on what an old band was doing. “I used to be in a band called Ghouls Night Out, and we were definitely based in horror punk,” Lee said. “A couple of songs that I had written I brought with me when we started The Evil Streaks, and those were similar to what I was doing with the band I was in before. Rev, myself and John are big fans of horror movies, so we stuck with that, especially with the song content and the lyrics. It’s also not over the top, but it came from our love of those kinds of films.” There are a lot of memorable moments over 10 years that some-

CITY LIFE

THE NEXT DRAFT

Spencer monks torn on abbey taproom Plans for Spencer Brewery taproom on hold MATTHEW TOTA

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

ith their picturesque abbey and niche lineup of beer, the monks of Spencer Brewery could easily have one of the busiest taprooms in the state. The demand is real, too: During the one day a year the brewery opens to the public, thousands of people line up to see inside. But the Trappist brewery at Saint Joseph’s Abbey won’t be consecrating a new taproom any time soon. For the past two years, the monks have debated — peacefully, of course — whether it would be appropriate to open one up on the same hallowed grounds as a monastery, with no end in sight. Some aren’t even convinced a taproom would be worth the investment. Of the 13 Trappist communities that brew beer, Spencer is the only Trappist brewery in the U.S. It also happens to be in a state where most breweries lean heavily on the success of their taprooms to grow and thrive. If any Trappist brewery were to open a taproom, said brewery director Father Isaac Keeley, “it looks like it would have to be us.” Building a taproom would be the best way for Spencer Brewery

to augment its strong distribution growth, which included expanding sales to Maine last year. It would also give the monks a reason other than prayer to welcome people into their beautiful, pastoral abbey, strengthening their connection to the world around their cloister. The brewery was built in 2014 to be a hidden gem, rarely open to the public and located well inside the abbey, about a mile off North Spencer Road. When the brewery does open its doors to the public, though, people come in droves. In 2016, the brewery held its first open house, with more than 2,500 people attending the little-publicized one-day event. Prior to that, Father Keeley said, the abbey had only held two other large public gatherings: in 1975, to consecrate its church, and in 1984, to introduce a new abbot. The popularity of the open houses — some 8,000 people came this year — has been Father Keeley’s best evidence for why a taproom would succeed at the abbey. Early talks among the community of 54 monks have centered around turning the gift shop at the entrance to the abbey into a taproom, an expensive project, but one that Father Keeley feels, given today’s competitive craft beer market, is necessary to the

health of the business. “The monastery needs to make itself known,” Father Keeley said. “To me, that translates into some kind of little welcome center at the entrance. It seems that the beer ought to be sold out of there, and we should do tastings.” The monks have already worked with the Worcester law firm Mirick, O’Connell, DeMallie & Lougee, LLP, which has a craft beer group, on some of the legal and financial planning. But not all of the brothers support a taproom, with some feeling that building one at the abbey would be a bad investment. The monks do not take any business decision lightly. They need the revenue from the brewery — and their jam and jelly enterprise, Trappist Preserves — to sustain their life at the abbey. Beer sales pay for everything from food to health care, while also allowing the monks to support their charitable endeavors. Still, Father Keeley, as business savvy as he is holy, has stressed to his brethren the potential payoff from having a taproom. “Some of the brothers think I’m crazy that if we do something there it will draw people,” he said. With no consensus in sight, the

Father Isaac Keeley places bottles on the line for the bottling of the Spencer Brewery Holiday Ale in October 2015. FILE PHOTO/CHRISTINE HOCHKEPPEL

monks have placed the taproom plans on hold for now. When I visited the brewery earlier this month, Father Keeley seemed optimistic, saying the project is in a “gestation” period. He remains convinced that a taproom at the abbey would succeed. More importantly, he believes the beers — a mix of styles, from timeless Belgian ales to more trendy IPAs —would only be part of the draw.

“The beer is the excuse to come,” Keeley said. “But they also just like coming to the monastery. They like coming up the road, seeing the fields.” And, he said, they love seeing the monks. “People want to talk to the monks,” he said. “It doesn’t matter what we say; they’re just excited to talk to us, or get their picture taken with us.”

TABLE HOPPIN’

Worcester’s Best Chef set to return

BARBARA M. HOULE

wenty chefs will go head-tohead to win the coveted Iron Chef title at Worcester’s Best Chef 2020 competition scheduled Jan. 26 at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. VIP and general admission tickets now on sale are a gift idea for the culinary enthusiasts on your holiday list. Extra bonus for cooks is this gift doesn’t take up any counter space. “One of the best holiday gifts you could give to anyone because it’s the gift of sharing great food and spending time together,” said WBC founder Chef Bill Bourbeau of the Boynton celebrates winning Domenic D. Mercurio. “Make a the Iron Chef award at Worcester’s Best Chef competiwonderful evening out of it with friends and family.” tion last January. FILE PHOTO/CHRISTINE PETERSON Worcester’s Best Chef annually

sells out, with an estimated 1,200 in attendance. Tickets range in price depending on entry time. VIP tickets, $75 per person, allow guests into the venue at 3 p.m. and include access to a VIP only room to relax, etc. For general admission: Tickets for 5 p.m. entry are $55 per person; 5:30 p.m., $45 per person. Visit www.worcestersbestchef.com for more information. Chefs and restaurateurs throughout the evening will provide food tastings representative of dishes presented in competition. Great food mixed with lots of schmoozing! Also, wine, beer and spirits tastings will take place on both floors of the hall. Live jazz in Washburn Hall and “Papparazzi Photo Mob” from 3:45 to 6 p.m. at the entrance to Mechan-

ics Hall. The busy evening includes food demos and more. People’s Choice voting closes at 7 p.m. at the same time the Judges’ Choice Awards will be announced. Three chefs chosen by the judges will compete on stage in the Iron Chef round at 7:15 p.m., ending at 7:55. The People’s Choice award is up next, with the Iron Chef winner announcement at 8:15 p.m. Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School in Charlton and Tantasqua Regional High School in Sturbridge will compete in a Dessert Competition, with the People Choice “Best Student Dessert” announcement at 8:10 p.m. As one of the judges of Worcester’s Best Chef, I’m always in awe of the C O N T I N U E D O N N E XT PA G E

CITY LIFE

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C O N T I N U E D F R O M P A G E 20

chefs who compete. The first round of elimination chefs decide what dishes they want to preset to judges. When the three Judges’ Choice winners take the stage for the Iron Chef competition, ingredients in a mystery basket determine what they prepare. “The Best Chef competition started as an idea about 14 years ago with the intention of putting some much needed focus and emphasis on the incredible culinary talent that exists in Central Massachusetts,” said Mercurio. “As a native of Worcester, I always wanted to do something to make people think of Worcester as a destination city and keep them from going to Providence or Boston when they wanted a good meal. “We also love working with the schools, and the students are so happy to compete with each other in a friendly dessert rivalry,” said Mercurio. “I’ve heard them comment on how serving a crowd of foodies this size gives them real world experience that they don’t get on a regular basis, and a few of them in the past have had opportunities to go to work for some of our pro chefs in their restaurants. And, of course, we like to donate some money, which the culinary departments like to use to buy equipment or take care of other expenses. Seems like there’s a lot of synergy.” Stay tuned!

Pulse Magazine will host its annual Shrewsbury Street Santa Pub Crawl on Dec. 14, with food and fun in bars and restaurants on Worcester’s Restaurant Row. The event runs from 2:30 to 5 p.m. and ticket cost of $25 per person includes munchies at each participating location, one beer ticket (valid at a single specified location) and an event T-shirt. A portion of each ticket sale will be donated to local charities, according to Pulse Magazine. Note: Participants will receive an email prior to the event with registration location and route information. Each route will have about seven venues. Groups will be able to move along routes at their own pace. There will be an after-party for all participating groups from 5 to 8 p.m. Apps included! Santa attire is encouraged but not required. Pulse Magazine will award prizes for the best holiday outfits, including ugliest sweater and best Santa. Winners will be featured in Pulse Magazine.

Remembering Chris Liazos

C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 23

November 17, Christos (Chris) T. Liazos, noted Worcester restaurateur and friend to many in the food industry, passed after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Chris and his wife, Helena, owned the successful Webster House Restaurant in Worcester, a popular dining destination and local institution that earned a reputation for quality food, wine dinners, special events and great holiday pies. You usually didn’t order just a single pie as there were

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Peppers Artful Events in Northboro has planned a series of cooking classes in January and February that offer a unique culinary experience for all skill levels. The classes will take place at Peppers, 43 Hudson St., Northboro. The Winter Warmer Cooking Series kicks off Jan. 9 and 16, according to Sarah Barrett, marketing manager at Peppers. The culinary team at Peppers will guide cooks through the preparation of a multi-course dinner while teaching tips and techniques, according to Barrett, who said each class will end in a dinner party in Peppers’ tasting room. All recipes will be provided to take home, she said. Tickets for the Jan. 9 and Jan. 16 classes, held from 6 to 9 p.m., are $90 per person. Note: Craft beer and wine will be available from the bar; first glass is on Peppers! Class size will be limited to 24 people. In February, the focus is on New

Shrewsbury Street Santa Pub Crawl Dec. 14

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

Peppers offering cooking classes

Orleans Style Cuisine in the spirit of Mardi Gras. Classes will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 6 and Feb. 20. Cost is $90 per person. Craft beer and wine will be available from the bar, in addition to a complimentary, signature Mardi Gras inspired cocktail. Reserve a spot by visiting eventbrite.com, or call Peppers, (508) 393-6844. The perfect holiday gift for a foodie or cook who has everything!

CITY LIFE

FILM

‘Marriage Story’ is raw and uncomfortably intimate JIM KEOGH

oah Baumbach, the poet laureate of crumbling families, puts the art in heartbreak. I’ve just watched his newest writing/directorial effort, “Marriage Story,” which is grim and grueling and angry, though also sometimes humorous, and, finally, hopeful. You’ll need to absorb the entire 2 hours and 16 minutes to discover how these ingredients are baked into a lopsided cake that’s aesthetically suspect yet just enticing enough to want to eat, or smush into someone’s face. “Marriage Story” brings back the somber memories of commiserating with friends and family members suffering through a split. I once worked with someone who was navigating her divorce, and everyone in our small office endured the process by proxy. We could only hear one end of sensitive conversations (this was in pre-cellphone days when “private” calls meant co-workers simply tried their best not to listen), and even then, the interactions were

supremely uncomfortable. Late in “Marriage Story,” the divorcing couple, Charlie (Adam Driver) and Nicole (Scarlett Johansson), engage in an argument that seems to peel away their skin — they are that exposed. The exchange culminates with Charlie blurting out a remark suggesting a horrible fate for Nicole so jarring even he’s paralyzed by its awfulness. I was reminded of a confession Kathleen Turner made to estranged husband Michael Douglas 30 years ago in “The War of the Roses”: “When I watch you eat. When I see you asleep. When I look at you lately, I just want to smash your face in.” The line was played for laughs. Charlie’s is played for tears. Baumbach returns to personal territory with “Marriage Story,” which was reportedly inspired by his divorce from actress Jennifer Jason Leigh. In 2005’s “The Squid and the Whale” he explored the dynamics of his parents’ dissolving marriage; Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney acting as stand-ins for his mother and father. His 2007 film “Margot at the Wedding” pitted one sister in

a failing marriage against another sister entering a doomed marriage to see who could make whom more miserable. His “The Meyerowitz Stories” stars Dustin Hoffman as an oft-married retired college professor who foments discord in the lives of his children and exes. Brittle families and bad marriages are Baumbach gold. The director has been in a long-term relationship with actress-writer-director Greta Gerwig, and I’m pulling for them. But Greta must realize ever-wounded Noah is already composing a movie about their relationship in his head … just in case things don’t work out. I’ve been reading a lot of audience reaction to “Marriage Story,” which ranges from “This is brilliant” to “I liked it better as ‘Kramer vs. Kramer.’” There is truth in both stances. The stuff flying out of Charlie and Nicole’s mouths is honest and raw and rarely venomous (they struggle to be civil); it’s dialogue we don’t often hear. Still, we would not engage in similar conversations in our own lives unless forced to, so eavesdropping on them via this film requires effort and

Fran Drescher, Richard Schiff. (1:33) NR.

“Downton Abbey” — The Crawleys and their staff prepare for a royal visit in this big-screen adaptation of the beloved British TV series. (2:02) PG.

Scarlett Johansson, left, and Adam Driver star in “Marriage Story.”

NETFLIX

sacrifice. What helped hold me to the story were the fine performance of some supporting actors, notably Laura Dern, Ray Liotta and Alan Alda as divorce lawyers hired (reluctantly) by Charlie and Nicole to negotiate

terms, most acutely of their young son’s custody. The attorneys’ seen-itall wisdom about the unsentimental mechanics of divorce is a splash of ice water, or a cake in the face.

“Jojo Rabbit” — A young boy in Nazi Germany discovers his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in the attic in writer-director Taika Waititi’s satirical fable. With Scarlett Johansson, Thomasin McKenzie, Waititi. (1:48) PG-13.

good to be true. With Emilia Clarke, Henry Golding.

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

FILM CAPSULES “21 Bridges” — “Black Panther’s” Chadwick Boseman plays an NYPD detective leading a manhunt for a pair of cop killers. With Sienna Miller, Stephan James, J.K. Simmons. (1:39) R. “Abominable” — Three friends try to reunite a young Yeti with his family in the Himalayas in this animated adventure. With the voices of Chloe Bennet, Eddie Izzard, Sarah Paulson. (1:32) PG-13.

“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” — Tom Hanks slips on the friendly cardigan of children’s TV show host Fred Rogers to dispense lessons in kindness to Matthew Rhys’ jaded journalist. (1:48) PG.

“Charlie’s Angels” — Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott and Ella Balinska are the titular trio in writer“The Addams Family” — Cartoonist director-co-star Elizabeth Banks’ reboot of the action franchise based Charles Addams’ creepy, kooky clan on the 1970s TV series. (1:59) PG-13. returns to the big screen in animated form. Voices of Oscar Isaac, Charlize “Dark Waters” — Mark Ruffalo stars Theron, Chloe Grace Moretz, Finn as a crusading attorney who uncovers Wolfhard. (1:45) PG. a deadly truth about a large chemical company. With Anne Hathaway, Tim “The Aeronauts” — Felicity Jones Robbins, Bill Camp, Victor Garber, and Eddie Redmayne (“The Theory Mare Winningham, Bill Pullman. of Everything”) reunite as a daring (2:06) PG-13. balloon pilot and a meteorologist conducting high-altitude research in “Doctor Sleep” — Forty years after the 1860s. (1:40) PG-13. the events of “The Shining,” the now“After Class” — Campus controversy grown Danny Torrance joins forces with a similarly gifted teen to battle shadows a NYC professor as he dark forces. With Ewan McGregor, spends a week reconnecting with his family. With Justin Long, Kate Berlant, Rebecca Ferguson.

“Ford v Ferrari” — Matt Damon is American car designer Carroll Shelby and Christian Bale is British racer Ken Miles in this fact-based drama. (2:32) PG-13. “Frozen II” — Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven join Elsa as she searches for the truth behind her powers in this sequel to the blockbuster 2013 animated musical. With the voices of Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel. (1:43) PG. “The Good Liar” — Ian McKellen and Helen Mirren square off as an elegant if elderly grifter and his notso-easy mark in this suspense thriller. (1:49) R. “Harriet” — Cynthia Erivo portrays Harriet Tubman, the 19th century African American woman who escaped from slavery and then led hundreds of others to freedom. (2:05) PG-13.

“Joker” — Joaquin Phoenix takes on the role of Gotham’s notorious mad clown in this standalone character study/origin story. With Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy, Marc Maron. (2:02) R. “Judy” — Renée Zellweger portrays Judy Garland during the legendary entertainer’s run of sold-out stage shows in 1968 London. (1:58) NR. “Knives Out” — Writer-director Rian Johnson rounds up a stellar group of suspects for this whodunit about the murder of a famous crime novelist. With Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Collette. (2:10) PG-13. “Last Christmas” — In a holiday romantic comedy inspired by the music of George Michael, a young Londoner meets a guy who seems too

“Maleficent: Mistress of Evil” — Angelina Jolie reprises her role as the Disney villainess in this sequel to the 2014 fantasy tale. With Elle Fanning, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michelle Pfeiffer. (1:58) PG. “The Mandela Effect” — A man begins to question reality when he realizes he can recall facts and events that others can’t. With Charlie Hofheimer, Aleksa Palladino, Robin Lord Taylor. (1:20) NR. “Midway” — The story of the critical World War II Pacific Theater battle between the American fleet and the Imperial Japanese Navy in June 1942. “Motherless Brooklyn” — Writerdirector Edward Norton stars as a lonely private eye with Tourette’s syndrome tracking his mentor’s killer in 1950s New York. (2:24) R. “Parasite” — Winner of the Palme d’Or at Cannes, Bong Joon Ho’s C O N T I N U E D O N N E XT PA G E

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so many different types to sweeten the holiday season. Reservations were endless. For more than 30 years the Webster House Restaurant had survived not only its competitors, but also changes on the local and national restaurant scene. When I think hospitality, Chris and Helena come to mind. Their welcoming nature was as important as their food, which made their restaurant so successful. Chris was the chef/restaurateur; Helena, the baker extraordinaire. After the couple sold the restaurant, Helena continued baking for family and friends. Holidays were filled with gingerbread houses for the grandchildren and specialty Christmas cookies and treats for family and friends. Chris was the appointed “delivery guy.” He also was a restaurateur who liked to talk business at breakfast or lunch at a “new place” that he wanted to introduce you to. He was involved in fundraisers and charitable events in and around the city, generously volunteering his time and expertise. He was an avid learner and in retirement tackled organic gardening. Family was very important to Chris and Helena, especially their grandchildren. After Helena passed in 2017, Chris continued with his early morning breakfast meetings and always shared news of “the kids.” Of

course, he wanted the scoop on your family, too. Before his death, Chris had taken on what he described as the Webster House cookbook project, recruiting former restaurant employees and good friend Joan St. Denis Clarico to help him pull recipes and test them in advance of the cookbook’s publication next year. Joan formerly worked as chef at the Webster House. The group continues with the cookbook, which Chris had told me in the fall was being “fine-tuned.” He was so looking forward to the publication, with plans to donate proceeds to a local charity. He had emailed recipes that will be included in the book, and I guarantee readers and former Webster House diners won’t be disappointed. The recipes will stir fond memories. Chris Liazos, the restaurateur, was mentor to many and he will be greatly missed. In his obituary, the family requested charitable contributions go to Chris and Helena Liazos Scholarship Fund for South High Students, or the Chris and Helena Liazos Scholarship Fund for Saint Spyridon Families, care of the Greater Worcester Community Foundation Inc, 370 Main St., Suite 650, Worcester, MA, 01608. If you have a tidbit for the column, call (508) 868-5282. Send email to bhoulefood@gmail.com. Kaluuya, Jodie Turner-Smith, Bokeem Woodbine, Chloe Sevigny. Written by Lena Waithe. (2:12) R.

deviously entertaining thriller about two very different families. (J.C.) R.

“Terminator: Dark Fate” — Linda Hamilton and Arnold Schwarzenegger are baack in the latest chapter of the time-bending cyborg franchise (2:08) R.

C O N T I N U E D F R O M P A G E 22

“The Peanut Butter Falcon” — A young man with Down syndrome chases his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. With Shia LaBeouf, Dakota Johnson. (1:33) PG13.

“Playmobil: The Movie” — A sister and brother join a British secret agent to help stop a global conspiracy in this computer-animated action comedy based on the kids toy line. With the voices of Daniel Radcliffe, Meghan Trainor, Kenan Thompson, Adam Lambert. (1:39) PG.

“The Wolf Hour” — A former counterculture celebrity grows increasingly paranoid as she hunkers down in a stifling apartment in the Bronx in summer 1977. With Naomi Watts, Jennifer Ehle, Emory Cohen. (1:39) R.

“Queen & Slim” — An African American couple on their first date become fugitives after a traffic stop gone tragically wrong. With Daniel

“Waves” — Kelvin Harrison Jr., Taylor Russell, Sterling K. Brown and Renée Elise Goldsberry play a South Florida family weathering tragedy in this emotionally turbulent, formally astonishing drama. R. Limited

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“Playing With Fire” — Firefighters find their lives turned upside down when they rescue three siblings but can’t find the kids’ parents.

“Zombieland: Double Tap” — Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Abigail Breslin and Emma Stone reunite to dispatch even more of the undead in this sequel to the 2009 horror comedy. (1:33) R.

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

FILM CAPSULES

CITY LIFE

THINGS TO DO

Family Style

COMPILED BY RICHARD DUCKETT, VICTOR D. INFANTE AND CHARLENE ARSENAULT

‘Talent’ show Join Crocodile River Music to celebrate Worcester’s thriving African artist community when it presents “Worcester’s Got African Talent” Dec. 12. There will be music, film, visual arts and more — including complimentary authentic African cuisine and beverages. The event will also also mark the launch of CRM’s new program, the African Artists Initiative. What: Crocodile River Music Presents “Worcester’s Got African Talent” When: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 12 Where: Crocodile River Music, 7th floor, 44 Portland St., Worcester How much: Free. Register online at eventbrite.com.

WORCESTERMAGAZINE.COM

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

Thursday, Dec. 12

of Europe.” Free. Brimfield Bells Winter Handbell Concert: 7-9 p.m. Dec. 12, First North Central Mass. LGBTQ Congregational Church, Brimfield. Drop-in Center: 2:30-4:30 p.m. For information: brimfielducc@ Dec. 12, Fivesparks (Old Library), gmail.com. Freewill donations 7 Fairbank St., Harvard. For accepted. information: kimpihouston@ The Yo Daddy Doe Variety Show: gmail.com. The North Central hosted by CoffeeHouse Craig, 7 Massachusetts LGBTQ+ dropp.m. Dec. 12, Strong Style Coffee, in center provides a safe space 13 Cushing St., Fitchburg. for LGBT youth ages 13-18 in Hot Dog! A Comedy Sideshow: Harvard and surrounding towns. 8-9 p.m. Dec. 12, Nick’s Bar and The center provides support and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St., resources, along with activities Worcester. For information: (508) such as crafts, educational 826-8496, woocomedyweek@ workshops, movies, and other gmail.com. Featuring Kathleen activities chosen by the youth. An DeMarle, John Flagg, Katie adult facilitator will attend each McCarthy, Nick Ortolani, Brandon meeting. Go to fivesparks.org for complete calendar listings for the Vallee and Andrew Vickers. Free. Unity Femcee Showcase: showcase center. of female artist, 8 p.m. Dec. 12, Worcester’s Got African Talent!: 6 p.m. Dec. 12, Crocodile River Music, Electric Haze, 26 Millbury St., Worcester. $10. 44 Portland St., Worcester. Free. U. S. Holocaust Museum Historian WXLO’s Almost Acoustic Christmas Discusses New Book: 7-9 p.m. Dec. featuring Adam Lambert: with John K and Cara Brindisi, 8 p.m. 12, Worcester JCC, 633 Salisbury Dec. 12, Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester. For information: St., Worcester. $49-$69. ngreenberg@worcesterjcc.org. The JCC’s Author Series features Friday, Dec. 13 Rebecca Erbelding, discussing her award winning book, “Rescue Brett Brumby: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Board: The Untold Story of America’s Efforts to Save the Jews Dec. 13, Rock Bar, 81 Water St.,

Worcester. A Bird’s-Eye View — Opening Reception: 6 p.m. Dec. 13, Be Studios, 44 Portland St., Worcester. Free. Coffee House: with open mic music and poetry, 7-9 p.m. Dec. 13, Trinity Church of Northborough, 23 Main St., Northborough. For information: (508) 393-8156, thirdfloorcoffeehouse@gmail. com. $5. The Most Peaceful Night of the Year: 7:30-10:30 p.m. Dec. 13, First Church Leominster, 15 West St., Leominster. Cost: $10. Featuring Mark Marquis and friends. Comedian Tammy Pescatelli: 8 p.m. Dec. 13, Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Road, Shirley. $26. Brian Martin Solo: 8-11 p.m. Dec. 13, Italian American Associates, 20 North St., Southbridge. The Evil Streaks 10-Year Anniversary Show: with Dirty Walter and the Smelltones, Thinner and Thee Benevolent Tarots, 8 p.m. Dec. 13, Ralph’s Rock Diner, 148 Grove St., Worcester. Comedian Shane Gillis: 8 p.m. Dec. 13, WooHaHa Comedy Club, 50 Franklin St., Worcester. $20. Comedian Brian Higginbottom: 8 p.m. Dec. 13, the Comedy Attic, Park Grill & Spirits, 257 Park Ave., Worcester. $15. A Former Friend: 8 p.m.-midnight Dec. 13, Hotel Vernon, 16 Kelley Square, Worcester. Fender Road (Feat. Paul ‘Fender’ Lirange and Gary Suter): 8-11 p.m. Dec. 13, Days End Tavern, 287 Main St., Oxford. Boombox: the ’70s and ’80s Experience Returns to Halligan’s: 8:30 p.m.-12 a.m. Dec. 13, Halligan’s Bar And Function Hall, 889 Southbridge St., Auburn. For information: bycharlenearsenault@gmail.com. Auntie Trainwreck’s Ugly Sweater Party: 9 p.m. Dec. 13, Beatnik’s, 433 Park Ave., Worcester. $5.

Dance Classic Dance Prism’s “The Nutcracker” is Worcester’s longest running production of the holiday classic, with fully staged annual performances in Mechanics Hall since 1982. The Boston area company’s five-city New England tour includes professional dancers and apprentices and serious ballet students who successfully auditioned earlier this year. All young audience members can meet Clara and the Nutcracker Prince following the performances. What: “The Nutcracker” — Dance Prism When: 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 15 Where: Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester How much: $28; $20 children, students and seniors. Discounts for Girl Scout Troops. (508) 752-0888; (978) 371-1038; www.danceprism.com

“Some comics probably just get married for the material,” says comedian Tammy Pescatelli, and she certainly has a knack for drawing from her family life in unpredictable and hilarious ways. For example, in one routine she talks about what she went through to keep her job after getting pregnant. “Most female comedians, their wives have their babies for them.” When her agents says her career is probably over, saying he’s never seen a pregnant woman on stage, she replies, “Apparently you’ve never been to a really bad strip club.” With her personable delivery and quick wit, it’s no wonder she’s appeared on shows such as “Last Comic Standing,” “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno” and “The View.” What: Comedian Tammy Pescatelli When: 8 p.m. Dec. 13 Where: Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Road, Shirley How much: $26

Saturday, Dec. 14 Director Talk with The Hanover Theatre’s Troy Siebels — “A Christmas Carol”: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Dec. 14, Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem St., Worcester. For information: (508) 799-1655, lsheldon@mywpl.org. Dr. Who Ugly Sweater Family Day: 12-2 p.m. Dec. 14, Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St., Fitchburg. Cost: Free. For information: (978) 829-1789, fplref@cwmars.org. Registration Required. Shrewsbury Street Santa Pub Crawl: 2:30-5 p.m. Dec. 14, Shrewsbury St., Shrewsbury St Shrewsbury St., Worcester. For information: info@pulsemag.com. Mugwumps Jug Band Christmas: 3 p.m. Dec. 14, Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St., Worcester. Pakachoag Music Student Recital: 3-4:15 p.m. Dec. 14, Pakachoag Music School, 10 Irving St., The Sanctuary at All Saints Church, Worcester. Cost: Free. For information: (508) 7918159, sarah@pakmusic.org. The Pakachoag Fiddle Band will be part of the line-up for this second of two December Student Recitals. A Ten Band Can Drive Fest To Benefit The Mustard Seed: 3 p.m.-12 a.m. Dec. 14, The Raven, 258 Pleasant St., Worcester. For information: info@ theravenrockclub.com. Wormtown Ska presents “A Happy Skalidays Can Drive Fest!”featuring Evil Felipe, The Shoats, Jerry’s Got Jokes, Jonee Earthquake Band and PWRUP, the Ghost Tones, the Ska-Walkers, the ScrewUps, the Lousekateers and Shape Shifters.

Proceeds benefit the Mustard Seed. Christmas Concert with Dale LePage and the Manhattans, Chuck and Mud and Jim Russo: 7-10 p.m. Dec. 14, El Basha, 256 Park Ave., Worcester. Almost Human: with Caspa, Eprom, Truth, Sicaria Sound, Honeycomb, Saltus, Dual Natured, stubbs (3), Voltran, Uncle Bob, Daze Inn and Ekomsdub, 7 p.m. Dec. 14, Palladium, 261 Main St., Worcester. $40-$75. Colonial Holiday Dinner fundraiser: 7-10 p.m. Dec. 14, Gardner Masonic Hall, Gardner , 42 Central St. For information: hubbardstonmilitia@gmail. com. $25. Benefits the Hubbardston Militia Company, an all-volunteer non-profit reenactment organization. That provides educational talks and demonstrations to recreate early Massachusetts history. Emerald Rae: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14, The Vanilla Bean Cafe, 450 Deerfield Road, Pomfret, Connecticut. $12. Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert: 8-10 p.m. Dec. 14, Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester. For information: info@tuckermanhall. org. $40. Jake Mckelvie & The Countertops, Eye Witness and Tysk, Tysk, Task: 8 p.m.-midnight Dec. 14, Hotel Vernon, 16 Kelley Square, Worcester. Comedian Brian Higginbottom: 8 p.m. Dec. 14, the Comedy Attic, Park Grill & Spirits, 257 Park Ave., Worcester. $15. Decades By Dezyne: 8:30 p.m.-12 a.m. Dec. 14, Halligan’s Bar And

CITY LIFE

‘Christmas Pilgramage’

Recounting ‘Rescue’

Musicians of the Old Post Road will bring “Christmas Pilgrimage” to First Unitarian Church of Worcester on Dec. 15 with a holiday program inspired by the idea of seeking and finding a new spiritual home. The concert will feature joyful instrumental pastorales and sublime cantatas by Handel, Telemann and others, and the world-premiere revival of a cantata by German baroque composer Johann Christoph Graupner, “Das Volk so im Finstern wandelt” (“The people wandering in darkness see a great light”). Specializing in period instrument performance of music from the Baroque, Classical and early Romantic eras, the Boston-area ensemble’s repertoire includes compelling “rediscovered” works — gems that have been lost to audiences for centuries. The musicians include flutist Suzanne Stumpf (co-artistic director), violinist Sarah Darling, violist Marcia Cassidy, cellist Daniel Ryan (co-artistic director), and fortepianist/harpsichordist Michael Bahmann. They will be joined by vocal soloists soprano Jessica Petrus, mezzo-soprano Sophie Michaux, tenor Jason McStoots and baritone David McFerrin. What: Musicians of the Old Post Road presents “Christmas Pilgrimage” When: 4 p.m. Dec. 15 Where: First Unitarian Church, 90 Main St., Worcester How much: $40 for Section A seating (advance purchase only), $30 for Section B seating, and $10 for students. Children ages 7-17 accompanied by an adult are admitted free to Section B, or for $15 to Section A. www.oldpostroad.org

Spirit of the Season

What: The Most Peaceful Night of the Year When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 14 Where: First Church Leominster, 15 West St., Leominster How much: $10

Tuesday, Dec. 17 Story Time — Fantastic 4s & 5s: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Dec. 17, Boylston Public Library, 695 Main St., Boylston. For information: (508) 869-2371, lstretton@cwmars.org. Business Plan Basics: 1-2:30 p.m. Dec. 17, Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem St., Worcester. Cost: Free. This workshop provides an overview of writing a business plan. Topics include why you need to write a business plan, an overview of each section of a business plan, research and writing tips, and resources for help and support. A sample business plan template will be provided to get you started. Presented by The Center for Women & Enterprise. Register online at mywpl.org or call (508) 799-1655 x3. Santa!: 4-5 p.m. Dec. 17, Worcester Public Library Roosevelt Branch, 1006 Grafton St., Worcester. For information: lsheldon@mywpl. org. Free. Writer’s Group: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Dec. 17, Boylston Public Library, 695 Main St., Boylston. Led by poet Susan Roney O’Brien. Please Information at (508) 869-2371or email jbruneau@boylston-ma.gov. Poetry of the Season: 7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 17, 19 Carter, 19 Carter St., Berlin. For information: (508) 7974770, wcpaboard@yahoo.com. Gary Hoare and Ted Blackler will read two winter classics; Dylan Thomas’ “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” and Beatrix Potters’ “The Tailor of Gloucester”, following a community open reading. Free.

What: Rebecca Erbelding — Worcester JCC Author Series When: 7 p.m. Dec. 12 Where: Worcester JCC, 633 Salisbury St., Worcester How much: Free and open to the public. For more information and to RSVP, contact Nancy Greenberg at (508) 756-7109, ext. 232 or email her at ngreenberg@worcesterjcc. org

Science Fiction Book Club: 7:158:30 p.m. Dec. 17, Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem St., Worcester. Cost: Free. For information: (508) 799-1655, wplref@mywpl.org,This month’s selection is “Alliance Rising,” by C.J. Cherryh. A Christmas Celtic Sojourn with Brian O’Donovan: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17, the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. $40.80-$62. The Cobra Kings: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17, Greendale’s Pub, 404 W. Boylston St, Worcester. Dizzy Pirate Open Mic Comedy: hosted by Ben Bosunga, Kevin Knightly, Brieana and Lou Ramos, 8 p.m. Dec. 17, eatnik’s, 433 Park

The Jews of Afghanistan: History, Culture and Muslim-Jewish Relations: 9:45-11:30 a.m. Dec. 15, Temple Emanuel Sinai, 661 Salisbury St., Worcester. For information: (508) 755-1257, amayou@emanuelsinai.org. Sara Aharon, author of “From Kabul to

Open Mic: hosted by Rick Hamel, 6:30p.m. Dec. 16, Funky Murphys, 305 Shrewsbury St., Worcester. Free. “Nightmare Before Christmas” Theme Trivia: 7-9 p.m. Dec. 16, Red Heat Tavern, 227 Turnpike Road, Westborough. Cost: Free. Monday Night Movie — Gremlins: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16, The Pavilion at the Beer Garden, 66 Franklin St., Worcester. Free. Comedy in the Cabaret: 8 p.m. Dec. 16, Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St., Worcester. The Dirty Gerund Poetry Series: 9 p.m. Dec. 16, Ralph’s Rock Diner, 148 Grove St., Worcester. Free, donations requested to help pay the performers.

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Sunday, Dec. 15

Monday, Dec. 16

U.S. Holocaust Museum historian Rebecca Erbelding will discuss her book “Rescue Board: The Untold Story of America’s Efforts to Save the Jews of Europe” Dec. 12 as part of the Worcester JCC’s Author Series. In 1944 President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the War Refugee Board led by young Treasury lawyer John Pehle. Over the next 20 months, Pehle pulled together a team of D.C. pencil pushers, international relief workers, smugglers, diplomats, millionaires and rabble-rousers to run operations across four continents and a dozen countries. Erbelding pieces together years of research and newly uncovered archival materials to tell the dramatic story of this little-known effort to save Jews in Europe. The event will include a book signing and dessert reception following the talk.

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

For 32 years now, Central Mass. guitar great Mark Marquis has orchestrated “The Most Peaceful Night of the Year,” a concert and celebration of holiday cheer featuring many of the region’s most talented musicians. As usual, the proceeds from this concert will be donated to charity.

Function Hall, 889 Southbridge St., Auburn. F 9Teen: 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Dec. 14, Greendale’s Pub, 404 West Boylston St., Worcester. Ice Giant, Nocuous, Dead Brockie Experience, Face First and KES: 8:30 p.m. Dec. 14, Ralph’s Rock Diner, 148 Grove St., Worcester. Lounge Cats: 9 p.m. Dec. 14, Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St., Worcester. Trak Down: 9 p.m.-12 a.m. Dec. 14, Rascals, 70 James St., Worcester. Girls on Girls Birthday Bonanza: 9 p.m.-12 a.m. Dec. 14, Dark Rose Saloon, 274 Shrewsbury St., Worcester. Holiday Bash With Interstellar: 9 p.m.-12 a.m. Dec. 14, Wheelock inn, 82 Wheelock Avenue, Millbury. Playing Dead (Grateful Dead Tribute): 9:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Dec. 14, Electric Haze, 26 Millbury St., Worcester.

Queens: The Jews of Afghanistan and Their Move to the United States,” will speak. Free. 2019 Brunch with Santa at the Beechwood Hotel: 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 15, Beechwood Hotel, 363 Plantation St., Worcester. For information: (800) 344-2589, sales@beechwoodhotel.com. Adult Cost: $44.95, children, ages 6-12 $19.95, Age 5 & younger: Free. The Nutcracker: 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 15, Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester. $20-$28. Gingerbread House Workshop: 1-2:30 p.m. Dec. 15, Asa Waters Mansion, 123 Elm St., Millbury. Cost: $45. For information: (508) 865-0855, klivoti@ townofmillbury.net,. Annual Winter Concert with Piano Virtuoso Ivan Gusev: 2-3:30 p.m. Dec. 15, Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. Cost: $25-$35. An all-Russian program including pieces by Tchaikovsky, Scriabin, and Mussorgsky’s 10-piece suite. Memory Lane — Vintage Fashions of Denholms: 2-3:30 p.m. Dec. 15, Worcester Historical Museum, 30 Elm St., Worcester. Cost: Free. For information: (508) 753-8278, annesadick@worcesterhistory. net. Author Christopher Sawyer discusses the fashion trends of the early ’60s. Free. Worcester Railers vs. Reading Royals: 3:05 p.m. Dec. 15, DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. Cost: $15-$36. Christmas Pilgrimage: 4-6 p.m. Dec. 15, First Unitarian Church, 90 Main St., Worcester. Cost: Free-$40. For information: (781) 466-6694, musicians@oldpostroad.org. The ensemble will premiere Christoph Graupner’s cantata “Das Volk so im Finstern wandelt” (“The people that wandered in darkness”), Telemann’s New Year cantata “Der mit Sünden beleidigte Heiland,” and “pastorales” by Heinichen and Pez With vocal soloists soprano Jessica Petrus, alto Sophie Micheaux, tenor Jason McStoots, and baritone Bradford Gleim. Listen! A Poetry Reading: hosted by Dave Macpherson, 7 p.m., Nov. Dec. 15, Nick’s Bar and Restaurant, 124 Millbury St., Worcester. Obituary: with False Prophet, Extinction AD and High Command, 7 p.m. Dec. 15, Palladium, 261 Main St., Worcester. $35.

CITY LIFE

‘In the Spirit’

THINGS TO DO A Certain Notoriety Comedian Shane Gillis has spent some time in the public eye recently, and not necessarily in a positive way. Announced as a new member of the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” his offer was soon rescinded after a recording of him using racially insensitive and homophobic slurs emerged. In his response after the firing, Gillis said, “I’m a comedian who was funny enough to get on ‘SNL.’ That can’t get taken away.” Some might be willing to brush off that notoriety, whereas for others, it makes his set a hard sell. What: Comedian Shane Gillis When: 8 p.m. Dec. 13; 7 and 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14 Where: WooHaHa Comedy Club, 50 Franklin St., Worcester How much: $30

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

Ave., Worcester. Tone-Deaf Tuesdays: hosted by Poise’N Envy and Harley Queen, 9 p.m. Dec. 17, Electric Haze, 26 Millbury St., Worcester.

Wednesday, Dec. 18 Story Time - Bouncing Babies: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Dec. 18, Boylston Public Library, 695 Main St., Boylston. For information: (508) 869-2371, lstretton@cwmars.org. Registration Required. Injury Screening and Gait Analysis by Platinum PT: 5-7 p.m. Dec. 18, PR Running, 18 Lyman St., Westborough. Cost: Free. A free injury screening by trained physical therapists, for anyone currently training for an event, people new to running or anyone with aches and pains needing some guidance. Matt Brodeur: 7 p.m. Dec. 18, Art’s Diner, 541 W. Boylston St., Worcester. Worcester Railers vs. Allen Americans: 7:05 p.m. Dec. 18, DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. Cost: $15-$36. Cherish the Ladies Celtic Christmas: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18, Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Road, Shirley. $42. Wacky Wednesday Jam: 8:30 p.m.

Dec. 18, Greendale’s Pub, 404 W. Boylston St, Worcester. Duncan Arsenault and Friends: 9 p.m. Dec. 18, Vincent’s 49 Suffolk St., Worcester. Wednesday Night Mayhem: 9 p.m. Dec. 18, 13, Beatnik’s, 433 Park Ave., Worcester.

Thursday, Dec. 19 Story Time — Terrific 2’s & 3’s: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Dec. 19, Boylston Public Library, 695 Main St., Boylston. For information: (508) 869-2371, llstretton@cwmars.org. Registration Required. Gingerbread Houses: 4-5 p.m. Dec. 19, Worcester Public Library Goddard Branch, 526 Burncoat St., Worcester. For information: lsheldon@mywpl.org. Thursday Book Club: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 19, Boylston Public Library, 695 Main St., Boylston. For information: (508) 869-2371, efurse@cwmars.org. This week’s selection is “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens. T The Yo Daddy Doe Variety Show: hosted by CoffeeHouse Craig, 7 p.m. Dec. 19, Strong Style Coffee, 13 Cushing St., Fitchburg. The Everly Brothers Christmas Experience: with The Zmed Brothers, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19, Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Road, Shirley. $30. Wicked Pissah Show’s Ugly Xmas Sweater Party and Open Mic Comedy Chaos: 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Dec. 19, Marty’s Pub, 225 Canterbury

8&1 Dance Company East, a new area professional jazz and modern dance company, will perform a holiday show “In the Spirit, A Holiday celebration” at Apple Tree Arts in Grafton Dec. 13 and 14. “The show is a warmhearted, entertaining production about the magic of Christmas and the holidays seen through the eyes of a child as she experiences the joys of the season,” said 8&1 Dance Company East founder, choreographer and director Jill S. Rucci. “The holidays are a very busy time and sometimes we forget the true importance of Christmas, family, friends and loved ones. With a little help from the young girl’s kindred spirit, Santa’s magic helpers and the elf on the shelf and other fantasy moments, the child finds herself in the spirit and is thankful for all she has. There’s an overture of different Christmas songs but no spoken word. The dancing is mostly jazz, very upbeat and passionate, all of my choreography is genuine and sincere.” Rucci, who grew up in Sutton, is founder, choreographer and director of 8&1 Dance Company Dallas. She recently moved to Southern Rhode Island to be closer to home and now her focus is 8&1 Dance Company East. 8&1 refers to eight dancers and one choreographer (Rucci). What: “In the Spirit, A Holiday Celebration” — 8&1 Dance Company East When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13; 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 Where: Apple Tree Arts, Great Hall, One Grafton Common, Grafton How much: $25.50; $16.50 for seniors and children ages 12 and younger. Includes light refreshments. Visit www.8and1dance.com to purchase tickets

Sounds of Russia Award-winning pianist Ivan Gusev will perform an all-Russian program at The Museum of Russian Icons’ annual winter concert Dec. 15. There will be some iconic compositions, including Mussorgsky’s wonderfully virtuoso 10-piece suite “Pictures at an Exhibition.” Born in Kazakhstan, Gusev is a graduate of the Tchaikovsky Moscow Conservatory in Moscow and Mannes School of Music in New York. He has performed extensively in Russia, Europe and the United States, and prizes include winning the Gershwin International Music Competition. New York Concert Review wrote, “The name Ivan Gusev is a name one keeps encountering lately in association with exciting musical events of all kinds.” What: Ivan Gusev, pianist When: 2 p.m. Dec. 15 Where: Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton How much: $35 nonmembers; $25 members. Register by calling (978) 598-5000. For more information, visit www.museumofrussianicons.org

CITY LIFE

A Little Terrifying Obituary doesn’t hold anything back. The ferocity driving songs such as “Visions in My Head,” “Chopped in Half” and the madcap guitar ride, “Redneck Stomp,” is visceral and a little terrifying. The combination of force, intensity and technical acumen make for an absolutely breathtaking musical experience. What: Obituary with False Prophet, Extinction AD and High Command When: 7 p.m. Dec. 15 Where: Palladium, 261 Main St., Worcester How much: $35

Conn. thebradleyplayhouse.org “Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings”: Presented by Barre Players. 7:30 Stage p.m. Dec. 13, 14; 2 p.m. Dec. 8, 15. Barre Players Theater, 64 Common “Every Christmas Story Ever Told St., Barre. barreplayerstheater.com. (and then some)”: 2 p.m. Dec. 14, “Chasing the Ghost”: Presented 15; 8 p.m. Dec. 13. $20; seniors by the Forge Theater Lab. 8 P.m. and students, $18; youth 11 and Dec. 13 and 14, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 12, younger, $10. Stageloft Repertory Theater, 450A Main St., Sturbridge. the Forge Theater Lab, 67 Rindge Road, Fitchburg. $15 general stageloft.org/. admission, $5 students and seniors. “Annie”: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13, 14; Dec. 12 is “pay what you can.” 2 p.m. Dec. 14, 15. $25, $20 for theforgetheaterlab.org. seniors and students. Calliope Productions, 150 Main St., Boylston. “A Christmas Carol”: 2 p.m. Dec. 15 and 21; 7 p.m. Dec. 15, 19, 21, calliopeproductions.org. 23; 2 p.m. Dec. 21; and 11 a.m. “The Drowsy Chaperone”: 7:30 and 4 p.m. Dec. 22. The Hanover p.m. Dec. 13, 14; 2 p.m. Dec. 15. Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Worcester County Light Opera Southbridge St., Worcester. $28Company, Grandview Playhouse, $56. thehanovertheatre.org 21 Grandview Ave., Worcester. “The Hip Hop Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. $25, $20 for seniors and students. Dec. 29. The Hanover Theatre for wcloc.org. the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge “Miracle on 34th Street”: Dec. St., Worcester. $42.50-$62.50. 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22. The Bradley thehanovertheatre.org. Playhouse, 30 Front St., Putnam, St., Worcester. For information: wickedpissahshow@gmail.com.

What: Emerald Rae When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 Where: The Vanilla Bean Cafe, 450 Deerfield Road, Pomfret, Connecticut How much: $12

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Gloucester-based fiddle player Emerald Rae is capable of evoking a great deal of emotion in her music, from the sinister shimmer of “Sweet Arrest” to the cold-water snap of the instrumental, “She’s Sweetest When She’s Naked.” Rae has an ability to cut straight through to the heart of a song, and bring it forward in invigorating ways.

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

Phenomenal Fiddle

CITY LIFE

ADOPTION OPTION Welcome to Adoption Option, a partnership with the Worcester Animal Rescue League highlighting their adoptable pets. Check this space often to meet all of the great pets at WARL in need of homes.WARL is open seven days a week, noon-4 p.m., 139 Holden St. Check them out online at Worcesterarl.org, or call at (508) 853-0030. EAST DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

Lucy (mom) and her daughter, Adora, were found as strays. They are

shy, skittish cats. They relaxed in their foster home, which didn’t have children. Lucy and Adora would be scared around noisy kids and dogs. They need a quiet home where Adora will gain more confidence and Lucy will be less protective of her daughter. It’s unusual for them to be so tightly bonded. Throughout nature, kids leave their parents, but this duo won’t be separated. They must be adopted together for a reduced adoption fee of $250 for both cats.

Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Here are some of WARL’s regular needs: Pet Supplies: Dog and cat food (both canned and dry). Purina brand preferred. Please no grain-free; Non-clumping kitty litter; Bedding, comforters, blankets and towels (not pillows & sheets); Kuranda Beds; martingale collars. Pet Toys – For cats: furry mice and balls with bells, stuffed animals for orphaned kittens to snuggle against; For dogs: Kongs, Ruff Wear, Jolly Balls, Tuffies, tennis balls. Office Supplies: Copy paper (white and colors), postage stamps, pink and blue post-its, etc. Staples gift cards are always welcomed! Computers, Laptops, Printers: Newer models or gently used models are welcomed. Medical Supplies: Latex gloves, gauze, anti-bacterial hand sanitizer,

popsicle sticks, Dixie cups, One Touch Test Strips. Monetary Donations: WARL is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and your donations of money, time, supplies, homes, and love are vital to our cause and the lives of the animals in our care. The animals depend on the heartfelt outpouring of people like you. Donations can be given online, mailed, or given in person at WARL. Cleaning Supplies: Paper towels, 33-gallon trash bags, sponges, bleach, dish soap, “HE” (high efficiency) laundry detergent, Lemon Joy soap. Amazon Wish List: Can’t stop in? Do you like the ease of shopping online? Visit our Amazon Wish List, and the items will be shipped directly to WARL!

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Document certifiers “Witness” actor Lukas Tic-___-toe Suffix with pay or Cray King in “The Tempest” Capital of Myanmar until 2006 (formerly known as Rangoon) In the ___ of (amongst) “___, all ye faithful ...” “High” times? Company behind the Cybertruck Bulky old PC screens “It’s cold!” Suffix after employ Part of e.g.?

Last week's solution

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1 Toast eponym 2 Cougar’s cousin 3 It starts with a few digits filled in already 4 Domino’s ad character, once 5 “Solve for x” subj. 6 “Straight Outta Compton” costar ___ Jackson Jr. 7 Something forged 8 Winterizes, in a way 9 Classic Japanese drama 10 Addis ___, Ethiopia 11 Flash drive or mouse, e.g. 12 Assistants for pet projects? 13 That, in Lima 18 Reward poster subject, perhaps 22 Super Bowl played at Dolphin Stadium 25 Professionals’ charges 26 Prepare, as a mummy 27 Barrett once of Pink Floyd 29 Hauler’s charge 33 Non-slip bathroom surface 34 Hydroxide, e.g. 36 Cold beer, in dated slang 37 Do touristy stuff

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

Fun By The Numbers Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

1 “The Italian Job” actor ___ Def 4 “Birdman” actress Watts 9 Callow 14 Money used just before the euro was introduced 15 Daily Planet reporter Jimmy 16 Bassoon relatives 17 Decorations that may change colors 19 Couldn’t avoid it 20 “What We Do in the Shadows” nourishment 21 Parisian waters 23 Place a wager 24 Affirmative responses 25 Tourist draw with seasonally changing colors 28 “Cosi fan ___” (Mozart opera) 30 Purpose 31 Like early-in-the-year forecasts, maybe 32 Words after “easy” 35 Channel where you could clearly watch “Doctor Who”? 37 Mammals that completely change color depending on the time of year 40 New York county near Pennsylvania 41 At a bargain 42 Insurance co. rep. 43 Pai ___ poker (casino game) 45 Marketer of Nutrilite vitamins 48 Lizards notable for changing colors 52 Bed frame piece 54 Prefix with pod or cycle 55 Bowed, to a violist 56 Designer cologne since 1994 57 Other song on a 45 59 Color-changing jewelry popular in the '70s 61 Peanut butter cup inventor H.B. 62 “Take it back!” 63 Note after fa 64 “The defense ___”

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

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LAST CALL

Anna Vellante Redemption Rock Brewing Co. Sustainability Liaison A

nna Vellante was the recipient of this year’s Barth-Haas Hops Academy Scholarship. Haas is North America’s leading hops supplier. This prestigious award enabled her to travel to Yakima, Washington, for two days of intensive lectures and tours with the world’s hops experts. Vellante is the Sustainability Liaison for Redemption Rock Brewing Co. in addition to serving on the RRB taproom team.

could support. The values at Redemption Rock perfectly matched what I wanted in a company itself. I really didn’t think that I would get to do as much as I have already done here; I thought I was going to be bartending forever. Throughout the interview process they got to know me a little better and vice versa and it transformed into this Sustainability Liaison role.

back to the ecosystem in which they are placed, they damage their environment, not just with soil, but with animals living in the ecosystem as well. If you don’t have plant diversity, you’re not going to have any biodiversity. You’re not going to welcome in different types of insects.

Are there simple ways to recognize an ecosystem disruptor? I guess the easiest example of how you can see these farms as ecosystem disruptors is that many have very high fences around them. That right there tells me that wildlife can’t pass in or out of these fields, which take up acres and acres and acres of land. Animals have nowhere else to go. I honestly didn’t even see any animals there. It was really just concerning. The whole purpose of a regenerative farm is to be able to give back more to the planet than what you are taking or at least meet at a break-even point. – Sarah Connell Sanders

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And the supplier is aware of that? I honestly don’t think they are. They’re one of the biggest hop producers in the world and their grower was sitting there telling me that he didn’t know what soil nutrients the hops needed. Total red flag. Then, we went to the farm and all of my concerns were just laid out right in front of me. The first thing I did when I got to the farms was scoop up a handful of soil and smell it. You should be able to smell the microorganisms and bacteria and fungi living in the soil that create the nutrients in our food. That’s why a lot of industrial farms need artificial fertilizers to be able to grow anything because the soil is so depleted and there’s no natural nutrients left in the soil. It’s just another industrial farm that’s extremely resource intensive. These hop farms, like most industrial farms in general, act as ecosystem disruptors. Instead of benefiting and giving

D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019

Congratulations on receiving the Barth-Haas Hops Academy Scholarship. Can you give us an What is your history with overview of what that means? Worcester? I’m not originally from Worcester; Pink Boots Society is a unifying I’m from Marlborough. I guess my organization for women in the brewing industry. They offer a lot history with Worcester started of amazing resources all across with Redemption Rock, which is the board for bartenders, brewers kind of poetic. and whatever else you’re interested in doing in the beer industry. Have you always wanted to They offer scholarships to help work in the beer industry? with your career development. The I actually never thought about going into the beer industry. I was Boston chapter is one of the most active Pink Boots chapters in the trying to get into environmental country. I knew that the Barthscience for the longest time and Haas Hops Academy Scholarship it’s pretty hard to do that unless existed, but I was kind of wary you have your master’s degree. about applying for any of the I was so not ready to go back to scholarships because I felt like I grad school right away. I wanted harvesting season. Most of the hadn’t been in the industry for a job relating to environmenpeople that were in my program long enough. tal sustainability and I applied were there to learn about how to for over a hundred jobs around use hops in brewing. I was one of A case of imposter syndrome? Boston. I could literally show you the few people there to learn how my Excel spreadsheet. I kept track That’s totally what it felt like. My to grow hops. Now that I have my main interest in growing hops is of everything. I went on so many job as the sustainability liaison, because my background is specifi- it’s impossible for me not to have interviews and just kept hitting cally in sustainable agriculture. dead end after dead end. I was a critical lens. Naturally, I took Down the line, I would love to about to give up and just take it upon myself to understand have my own regenerative farm some meaningless sales job at a our supply chain better. I went someday and I could see myself random company. Then, it hit me out there with an investigative like a truck: there’s an entire major incorporating sustainable hop mindset. I really wanted to see growing into my future farm. Hav- what damage the beer industry city in Massachusetts that I’m ing found myself in this industry, overlooking. Everyone I went to was creating. Every industry has I started putting the puzzle pieces its demons, especially those that school with at Bentley University together to align opportunities was gunning for apartments and involve growing agricultural jobs in Boston. I decided to take a with my own goals outside of the products. It’s really hard to mass beer industry. I wrote a killer eslook at what Worcester had to ofproduce things in a beneficial way fer. I found Redemption Rock. The say explaining all of that. I nearly both socially and environmentally. fainted when I found out that I got I was specifically focused on the beer industry is absolutely boomit because it’s a national scholaring right now. I read all about Reenvironmental impacts of the hop ship. demption Rock online and found industry. out they were gunning for their What was your goal while you Benefit Corporation certification. What were the biggest They wanted to be environmental- were in Yakima? takeaways? ly friendly. At the bottom line, my I guess I had an unexpected goal The biggest takeaway was that the lowest standard for a job was that compared to most people out hops industry is damaging to the there because I went during hop I needed to work for a company I environment.

DYLAN AZARI

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D E C E M B E R 12 - 18, 2019