encore November 13-19, 2019

VOL. 36 / PUB. 20 • THE CAPE FEAR’S ALTERNATIVE VOICE FOR 35 YEARS • NOVEMBER 13-19, 2019 • FREE

CONNECT

Nick Adkins, Keynote: The Power of Connection

STAGE

Alicia Inshiradu, “What the River Knows”

Celebrating 25 years!

FILM

“Straight Up,” directed

by James Sweeney encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 1

HODGE PODGE

CUCALORUS 25 We are celebrating 25 years of Cucalorus, which began as a one-day film fest at Water Street Restaurant in 1994.

Founded by 12 filmmakers, known as Twinkle Doon, Cucalorus has grown into five days of film, plays, concerts, conferences, keynote speakers, parties and more! Our whole edition of encore covers many events of the annual festival and even has the schedule inserted on pages 31-34. It all starts Wednesday, November 13. Don’t miss out on the fun!

Vol. 36/Pub. 20 Nov. 13-19, 2019

ENCOREPUB.COM encoredeals.com

word of the week CUC’D UP (ADJ) The feeling of inebriation that comes with attending too many Cucalorus events.

“By Saturday, Dan was so cuc’d up he could hardly stand.”

STAGE pg. 18 • By Shea Carver

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief:

Shea Carver >> shea@encorepub.com

Staff Editors:

Shannon Rae Gentry >> shannon@encorepub.com Jeff Oloizia >> jeffrey@encorepub.com

Art Director/Office Manager:

Local filmmaker Alicia Inshiradu has been working on her film, ‘What the River Knows,’ centered around the coup of Wilmington 1898, for more than 20 years. We interview her about her first-look at Cucalorus 25. Photo courtesy of Playingod Films

FILM pgs. 22-30 • By Anghus, Jeff Oloizia and Emily Caulfield We have a slew of films worth recommending this week, including Onur Tukel’s ‘Black Magic for White Boys’ (above), pgs. 22-23.

Courtesy photo

win of the week

Susie Riddle >> ads@encorepub.com

Chief Contributors: Gwenyfar Rohler,

Anghus, Tom Tomorrow, Mark Basquill, Rosa Bianca, Rob Brezsny, John Wolfe, Joan C.W. Hoffmann

SALES General Manager/Owner: John Hitt >> john@encorepub.com

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Megan Henry >> megan@encorepub.com John Hitt >> john@encorepub.com Shea Carver >> shea@encorepub.com Brian Venegas >> brian@encorepub.com Published weekly on Wednesday by HP Media; opinions of contributing writers are not necessarily the opinions of encore.

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ALSO INSIDE THIS WEEK P.O. Box 12430, Wilmington, N.C. 28405 encorepub.com • (910) 791-0688

EXTRA pg. 42 • By Shea Carver Every year Cucalorus pays homage to ‘Blue Velvet’ with its Bus to Lumberton art installation; this year, it’s actually a bus! Find out about the other extras of Cucalorus 25. Courtesy photo

Live Local, pgs. 4-5 • News of the Weird, pg. 6 • Op-Ed, pg. 7 • Cucalorus Connect, pg. 8 • Music, pgs. 12-16 Theatre, pg. 18-20 • Gallery Guide, pg. 21 • Film, pgs. 22-30 • Dining, pgs. 36-41 • Extra, pg. 42 • Books, pg. 44 Calendar, pgs. 46-61 • Crossword, pg. 63

2 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

NOVEMBER 25, 2019 at 7:30 pM • WILSON CENtER tICkEt CENtRaL • 910.362.7999 • WILSONCENtERtICkEtS.COM

encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 3

F

ILM = JOBS is a bumper sticker or a sign promoted around town.

For most of my adult life, a very heated discussion about film incentives, or giving tax breaks to attract filming to the state of North Carolina, has been part of public discourse.

Many industries receive tax incentives, but unlike large corporations with offices in other states, the film world spends far more money here than it takes. In addition to the money spent with small business, the performers and anyone brought in from outside the area for production must rent accommodations while they are here. They must be fed, have transportation, etc. All that money adds up.

For our B&B and the loft above the bookstore, we have been renting accommodations to film people—and renting books for set dressing. Thus, it results in the remittance of room occupancy and sales taxes. Long-term, there is the tourism piece to the film industry: People travel here to see where shows like “One Tree Hill” and “Dawson’s Creek” were filmed, as well as “Blue Velvet,” “Firestarter” and now the Halloween movies, to name a few. They come from around the world and spend money on housing, food, travel, souvenirs (i.e. sales tax, room occupancy tax and food tax).

The film industry and subsequent money it brings to the North Carolina’s economy is important, so on October 22, 2019, Governor Roy Cooper announced a new Governor’s Advisory Council on Film, Television and Digital Streaming. The council will educate the governor on efforts to help grow the industry and support the state’s film office.

Governor Cooper’s office noted that in 2019 alone, production spending in the state has

CONNECTING OUT

COMMUNITY Working Films celebrates anniversary and 20 years of social-justice filmmaking already reached $165 million.

In addition to the big name productions that have put us on the map, Wilmington is home to a thriving independent film culture with far-reaching impact. This fall, two pillars of that community, Cucalorus Festival and Working Films, are both celebrating anniversaries: Cucalorus is turning 25 and Working Films is celebrating 20 years.

Hence: a toast to both! A party to commemorate two decades of life-changing cinema will take place Saturday, November 16, 2-4 p.m. at The Blue Post.

Founded two decades ago by Robert West and Judith Helfand, Working Films seeks to connect documentary filmmakers with funding and partners to create social change utilizing film as a tool. Though headquartered in Wilmington, Working Films connects with filmmakers and social campaigns around the country. In 2013, cofounder and executive director West passed away. He knew he was terminally ill and prepared Anna Lee and Molly Murphy to move Working Films into its next phase as co-directors. When they responded to our questions about their

4 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

upcoming event and the future of Working Films, they noted that like everything they do, the co-directors collaborated on the answers to our questions. encore (e): So tell us a little about how WF started? Whose idea was it? Why Wilmington? Yet you work all over the world, yes?

Working Films (WF): It was the brainchild of Robert West, curator of film and video at the Mint Museum in Charlotte, and Judith Helfand, a documentary filmmaker based in NYC. They met when Judith came to Robert’s office to borrow a projector to screen “The Uprising of 34,” a film she was working on with the acclaimed documentary director George Stoney about the unionization of NC textile factory workers. In getting acquainted, they discussed films moving people to not just think differently but to act differently.

They agreed there ought to be an organization dedicated to using film for social change, and so they started one. Recognizing the importance of tackling social and environmental justice in the South, they embraced an opportunity to move into the Firehouse at 5th and Castle streets in Wilmington. We continue to work locally, across North Carolina and in states across the country.

BY GWENY

FAR ROHL

ER

TEAM PLAYERS (L. to r.) Tara Eng, George Stoney Fellow; Andy Myers, senior campaign coordinator; Molly Murphy, exective codirector; Sara Zia Ebrahimi, development manager; Hannah Hearn impact coordinator; Gerry Leonard, impact coordinator and Southern Partners Fund program officer.

Courtesy photo

WF: We approach filmmakers through “calls for media” and requests for proposals. We have developed a very large network of artists and allied organizations over the years, so the response to these is usually pretty good. We work on specific social and environmental issues, such as climate change and immigration. When first embarking on a project, we listen to organizers and advocates who are working to address problems and forward solutions. With them, we determine the kinds of stories most needed to advance progress. We then make an announcement.

We seek media that can shift negative and false narratives and move people to action in meaningful ways. For example, after Hurricane Florence hit and we became involved in recovery efforts, we recognized the need e: Do you approach filmmakers, or do they to highlight the current injustices, systems at play, and solutions needed to prepare and approach you? respond to climate disasters. So we part-

nered with the NC Environmental Justice Network, the NC Justice Center, California Rural Legal Assistance, the Houston Organizing Movement for Equity (HOME) Coalition, the National Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies, and the Disaster Housing Recovery Coalition to curate a compilation of short films called “Revisioning Recovery.” The series just had a private premiere during a convening of leaders from across the U.S. working for equity in planning and response to climate disasters. The collection will soon be announced, and more information can be found at workingfilms.org/revisioning-recovery.

Through a grant from the MacArthur Foundation, we’ve been able to start the Docs In Action Film Fund to support the production of short documentaries. We’ve funded five short films to date, which will be incorporated into our on-the-ground campaigns once they are complete.

Lastly, our Impact Kickstart program serves four underrepresented artists each year, whose films hold great promise to catalyze positive change. Through this program we help filmmakers create strategic goals for impact and specific plans to engage future partners, funders and audiences in meaningful ways. e: When Robert knew his time was limited, he started grooming you two to share the co-directorship. What is it like? How do you complement each other? What has been the biggest surprise?

WF: It’s gone really well. We’re in a really strong place today that would have been hard to imagine seven years ago when Robert was beginning hospice care, and we became interim codirectors. Fortunately, we have very complementary personalities and skill sets. We have both been with the organization for more than a decade (Molly Murphy 19 years and Anna Lee 14 years). When we aren’t at work together, we’re often hanging out socially with our kids who are close to the same ages. You know if you still want to spend time together outside of work, you have a good working relationship! We essentially act as CEO and COO, and we both lead organizational strategy with the participation of our stellar staff and board. e: What accomplishment are you most proud of thus far?

WF: Beyond being proud we survived the tragic loss of our founding director, we are proud we’ve stayed true to our mission.

We’ve taken bold risks over the years to remain as responsive as possible to the needs and priorities of those most impacted by the issues we work to address. We are proud of our incredible staff, which has grown to eight people in the last year (seven full-time and one part-time position). Beyond being proud, we are grateful for partnerships and relationships we have maintained and continue to build with change leaders, artists and those who surround and support them.

DETAILS WORKING FILMS CELEBRATES 20 November 16, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Free, family-friendly event Music by hip-hop artist and filmmaker Fuzz Jax with DJ Suspence Blue Post Billiards, 15 S. Water St. RSVP at wtf20atcucalorus.eventbrite.com As we celebrate our 20th anniversary in Wilmington, we’re particularly grateful for the community of filmmakers, cultural institutions, and activists with whom we partner locally. A special shout-out goes to Cucalorus as we both celebrate 20-plus years! We’re grateful to have been partnering with them for so long, creating powerful programming like Works in Progress­­—which supports filmmakers making social-justice documentaries that engage community members working for change locally. e: What do you have planned for the next five years? 10? 20?

WF: We plan to be around far into the future—because we believe in storytelling as a truly powerful resource, and a catalyst for making connections and forging progress on critical issues that face humanity and our environment. We will continue and expand our collaborations with local, statewide, and national nonprofits and grassroots groups, beyond the thousands we have worked with, helping more organizations use film and other cultural organizing events to translate complex issues, engage new supporters and provide people with repeated opportunities to act over the long-term. e: What role can independent film play that the cineplex doesn’t fill in our larger society?

WF: We know independent films and other forms of visual storytelling hold a unique power, especially when combined with programming that allows community members to come together in shared spaces, learn from one another and issue experts, take meaningful action and plug into the work of local and state-level groups. As we’re choosing documentaries to work with we are looking for films made by people who have a deep sense of accountability to the people featured in their films. The world of independent filmmaking creates more space for films created by and for communities whose stories are often left untold in mainstream films. We believe those films have the greatest potential to affect change. encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 5

HIS PATRIOTIC DUTY Astronaut and Neshannock Township, Pennsylvania, resident Andrew Morgan, who is currently aboard the International Space Station, cast his absentee ballot this Election Day from his perch 250 miles above the planet, the New Castle News reported. Ed Allison, Lawrence County’s director of voter services, received Morgan’s application for an absentee ballot and went the extra mile for the spaceman, coordinating with IT for a fillable, secure PDF file that Morgan could use to register his selections. “Astronaut Morgan got the ballot, voted it and sent it back,” Allison said. “No problem at all. In the 11 years I have been here, it is certainly unique.” [New Castle News, 11/4/2019]

BRIGHT IDEA CREME DE LA WEIRD Doctors at Westmead Hospital in Sydney, Australia, documented a case in the British Medical Journal’s Case Reports that has at least one nose out of joint. A 48-year-old former prison inmate had been suffering from sinus infections, nasal congestion and headaches for years, United Press International reported. Doctors treating the man performed a CT scan and discovered a rhin-

olith — a stone made of calcium — in his nasal cavity, which, when removed, was found to have formed around a small balloon with cannabis inside. The patient then recalled that when he was in prison about 18 years earlier, his girlfriend had smuggled in the balloon during a visit, and he had inserted it in his nose to hide it. But he pushed it too far in and assumed he had swallowed it.

The unnamed man is surely breathing easier these days. [United Press International, 10/31/2019]

Brice Kendell Williams, 32, was hoping to avoid getting a DWI early on Nov. 3, CNN reported, so rather than driving his car from one bar to another in Houma, Louisiana, Williams stole a motorized shopping cart from Walmart and toddled more than a half-mile to his destination, according to authorities.

He carefully parked the scooter between two cars in the lot and went inside, where officers from the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office found him and arrested him for felony unauthorized use of a moveable. Williams’ bond was set at $2,500. [CNN, 11/5/2019]

RULES WE DIDN’T KNOW WE NEEDED North Carolina’s Madison County Public Library system has had a loosely enforced rule against bringing pets into its branches.

But on Oct. 8, Interim Director Peggy Goforth appeared before the county’s board of commissioners to request a new policy that tightly restricts animals to only service dogs. Goforth felt she had to advocate for stricter rules after a man brought a bag full of snakes into the library, reported the Citizen Times. “He said, ‘My pets are harmless. Here, let me show you,’” Goforth said.

“And he poured them out on the front desk.

They just wriggled everywhere.” When told pets weren’t allowed in the library, “He was really nice about it. He just bagged up all the snakes and left,” she added. She said another man brought in an ant farm and took the top off to feed them, then forgot to put it back on. “The ants got everywhere.”

The library’s new policy excludes all animal species except dogs that are trained to help a person with a disability. [Citizen Times, 10/22/2019]

IRONIC

6 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

A passenger on New York’s MTA train system noticed a couple of suspicious packages at the Metro-North New Rochelle station on the afternoon of Oct. 28 and did what any conscientious rider would do: alerted authorities, using the new Help Point intercom system in the station. It turned out the boxes contained more of the MTA’s Help Point devices — they just hadn’t been installed yet.

The alert only briefly shut down the station, WNBC reported, as police quickly removed the boxes. [WNBC, 10/29/2019]

In Crystal City, Missouri, police are on the lookout for a man who broke into a vending machine at the Twin City Coin Laundry on Oct. 22, pocketing about $600 in change.

KSDK reported that he ought to be easy to find: He committed his crime in full view of security cameras, and he was wearing a T-shirt with the motto, “It’s not a crime unless you get caught.” [KSDK, 10/30/2019]

DANG Talk about bringing down the room. Late on Nov. 2 in Hattingen, Germany, about 300 patrons of a swingers’ club were interrupted mid-party when carbon monoxide alarms sounded and several began to feel unwell.

Firefighters escorted the swingers, many clad only in bathrobes, to safety, with about 10 people requiring treatment, reported the Associated Press. However, firefighters could not detect any dangerous level of carbon monoxide once they arrived on the scene. [Associated Press, 11/3/2019]

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT Belinda Gail Fondren, 52, of Evans, Louisiana, was charged with filing or maintaining false public records on Oct. 23 after it was discovered that she was writing fake doctor’s notes for high school students so they could get out of class. Fondren, who worked at a medical clinic, charged $20 for each excuse, Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft told WTAP. He also said it was common knowledge among students that the excuses were for sale. Two students obtained excuses on 14 occasions, he said. Fondren’s fraud came to light when someone from the Vernon Parish School Board called a doctor about the notes, which he denied having authorized. Her bond was set at $15,000.

[WTAP, 10/30/2019] Workers at a branch of Pinnacle Bank in Lincoln, Nebraska, were stymied on Oct. 28 when a man arrived hoping to open a checking account with a $1 million bill, the Lincoln Journal Star reported. Bank employees argued with him that it couldn’t possibly be real (the largest denomination bill ever minted was for $100,000), and eventually he left, with his bill but without an account. Lincoln police are hoping to identify him from surveillance video so they can check on his welfare. [Lincoln Journal Star, 10/31/2019]

AWESOME! When Coco the shiba inu was hit by a car on Oct. 28 in Schenectady, New York, the driver stopped and noticed some damage to her car, but couldn’t see what she had hit, so she drove on. About an hour later, Rotterdam Police Lieutenant Jeffrey Collins told WNYT, the driver stopped again when she heard noises. This time, she saw Coco, who was lodged in the car’s bumper. “It was like the perfect fit,” said Noella LaFreniere of the Hernas Veterinary Clinic where Coco was treated. “She ... came out alive, and it’s shocking to us.” Coco suffered a broken elbow but no other serious injuries.

Police have located her owners. [WNYT, 10/31/2019]

BROOKLYN

BY MARK BASQUILL

“A

nd here we all are, having coffee in Brooklyn!” Taylor said at the PLG Coffee House and Tavern, a short walk from Brooklyn’s Prospect Park.

“I’m from Michigan; my wife is from San Francisco. You’re from North Carolina. Is anybody really from here?

“This is supposed to be the best coffee shop in a hip neighborhood,” his wife Lisa added. She looked at the packed Sunday morning crowd. “This would be great if we could afford to buy.”

Taylor, a white man about half my age, beamed, sipped his coffee, and waited for his brunch sandwich. Taylor was raised in Michigan, ran cross-country at John Carroll University near Cleveland and currently consults with tech start-ups, or something equally hip. Lisa looked appropriately subdued and distant for a woman whose firstborn is due around Thanksgiving. Lisa is a fellow Penn alumnus and track standout, class of 2010. She earned her law degree at Columbia and works at a firm in the Big Apple.

Probably prompted by the pending new addition, Lisa, Taylor and I talked about the cost of housing and education. We agreed the business of higher education, particularly the old guard brick-and-mortar universities, such as Penn, Duke and UNC Chapel Hill, had failed to adapt to the technologies of the times. As for housing, a young professional couple could barely afford to buy a starter home (not just in Brooklyn but in Anywhere, USA). Lisa and Taylor finished their coffee and brunch, and trudged out in a late October downpour to check out other possible neighborhoods to move to.

What kind of neighborhood did Lisa and Taylor see as hip enough for their first child?

I looked around the PLG. The coffee shop was packed that stormy Sunday morning. A young Latino woman served coffee.

A slightly older, artsy, inked white woman gathered used plates and cups from tables.

A redheaded man with a dreadlocked beard prepared breakfast food in the back. A tall, slender woman with a bag marked “African-American Design Nexus-Harvard University” sat and opened her laptop where Lisa vacated. Two spectacled souls wearing yarmulkes sipped espresso, sat across from each other and bent over their iPads near the window. An African-American man

CAROLINA BEACH WINE & BEER WALK

PLG

SATURDAY NOV. 16th

Peace, love, gratitude today

check in ends @ 3pm

and everyday forward about my age, reading an actual newspaper, sat in the corner near the door. He looked like he’d been sitting there since the last time the Knicks won a championship.

Kanye’s “Jesus is King” album drifted from the sound system. (Few seemed to like it.)

Noon the next day I hopped public transportation (a cost-effective way of getting around), had lunch with my son and called a cab. Rosario drove me to LaGuardia. I listened to cool Latin hip-hop while young Rosario told me about growing up in the Dominican Republic and how grateful he was to live and work in America.

1pm-6 pm

TICKET INFORMATION LTD. NUMBER OF TICKETS 2 FOR $27 - ONLY AT ETIX.COM OR $16 EACH CASH ONLY AT The Seawitch Cafe & Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave.

For A List Of Venues & Event Details Visit www.COOLWILMINGTON.com

At midnight, the unnamed airline shuttled Wilmington-bound passengers to John Hotel in Little Chinatown, Queens.

Jordan, a Chinese college student, manned the graveyard shift check-in desk. He wore a Baruch College sweatshirt and appeared to be doing his homework.

When I arrived home the next day, I waited in line at a Wilmington coffee shop behind a smiling interracial couple. The man wore a Wisconsin sweatshirt.

Is anybody really from here?

I sipped hot coffee and felt warm gratitude for the opportunity to travel, for Brooklyn, for Wilmington and for the accepting melting pot that is my America. As we approach another high-stakes election year, I know my America is not everyone’s.

Some people fear the neighborhood melting pot. Their idea of diversity is some people in the neighborhood go to First Baptist and others go to First Presbyterian, and some people even fly Wolfpack flags. Ol’ 45 and others will demonize immigrants, blame the dread “other” for America’s ills.

After my recent travels I can only wonder, Who is this other? Is it Jordan? Rosario?

The PLG patrons? Maybe Lisa and Taylor?

I don’t know who the “other” is, but I did figure out the PLG in PLG coffee stands for “Peace, Love, Gratitude.” This Thanksgiving I hope Lisa and Taylor’s baby is born healthy with an opportunity to grow, learn and travel in a healthier melting-pot America. I also hope the fellow travelers I met find a little “PLG,” and Wilmington becomes the “PLG” capital of NC.

encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 7

TALK

MAN WITH A PLAN Cucalorus director Dan Brawley speaks to festivalgoers at last year’s kickoff party at TekMountain.

Courtesy photo

BY JEFF OLOIZIA

F

or years Cucalorus director Dan Brawley resisted calls to include panel discussions at his festival. “I just hated those things,” he says with a laugh.

As Cucalorus grew, and as film festivals such as South by Southwest and Sundance expanded their tech offerings, he came to see the wisdom in having a place for festivalgoers to sit and think out loud together.

“I’ve become more aware we want to create an opportunity for everyone in the community to participate,” says Brawley, who refers to himself as Cucalorus’ “Chief Instigating Officer.” “Not everyone wants to watch movies all night long, and not everybody wants to see fringe theatre.”

The result of that awakening is Cucalorus Connect—a two-day business, technology and innovation conference that combines panels, films, workshops and TED-style presentations from leading thinkers around the world. Now in its fifth year, Connect explores the intersection between creativity, technology and humanity.

“The way I explain it to people is that Connect is the place at the festival where we stop watching movies, stop performing or watching people perform, and we start talking,” Brawley says.

DETAILS CUCALORUS CONNECT CONFERENCE November 14-15, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N. 4th St. Single event: $15 Connect pass: $115 cucalorus.org/connect 10x10 kicked off with a matching event last Sunday, wherein names were drawn randomly from a hat to create filmmaker-entrepreneur pairings. The groups then immediately set to work in order to meet the Thursday-night deadline for their final product to screen Friday afternoon.

Among the startups participating this year are: mallowdoos—a company that creates handcrafted marshmallows; ScreenOUT, which strives to create stronger family connections by monitoring screen time for digitally addicted family members; and Topsail Steamer, the popular seafood company that builds take-home steamer pots.

It’s also a showcase for the Brooklyn Arts Center. Brawley has long wanted to move into the downtown venue, but 2019 is the first year Connect will be hosted there. “We’re bringing people from all over To date, 60 startups have made videos as the world to Wilmington, North Carolina, and so we want to show off the cool stuff.” part of the 10x10 challenge. Metal sculptor Dumay Gorham participated in 2017.

At the heart of Connect is the 10x10 With the help of student filmmaker Damien Challenge, a competition that pairs 10 Capps and UNCW’s Center for Innovation startups with 10 filmmakers to make a and Entrepreneurship, he was able to crethree-minute promo video in five days. ate an ad for his line of surfboard-shaped The challenge was created in 2014 by door knockers that he says would not have pioneering North Carolina filmmaker and been possible otherwise. The video even musician Norwood Cheek. Cheek initially landed his product on Kickstarter. Gorham, conceived of it as a way to connect film- who has worked on a number of film and makers with local bands. It was adapted TV projects, came away impressed. “Even into its current form in 2015. though they were young, they were every 8 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

bit as professional as some of the crews that I’ve seen at Screen Gems,” he says.

Among newer developments at Connect is an increased focus on social justice.

That includes a discussion on reparations and reconciliation in the US South, led by filmmaker Jacqueline Olive and artist and activist Bree Newsome Bass. Olive’s documentary feature, “Always in Season,” will screen Saturday afternoon as part of the festival’s “Magnolia” section, and explores the lasting impact of more than a century of lynchings on American society (see the review on page 24). The film was awarded the Special Jury Prize for Moral Urgency at the Sundance Film Festival in February.

Also on the schedule is a panel discussion on housing segregation, poverty and justice. Moderated by Emmy-nominated producer, writer and director Angela Tucker, the Friday-morning event will welcome to the discussion filmmaker Randall Dottin; Support the Port founder and executive director Cedric Harrison; and City of Wilmington community development and housing planner Suzanne Rodgers. The trio will discuss how housing segregation policies have confined black and brown people to poverty. They will also explore possible solutions for leveling the playing field. Following the discussion will be a screening of Dottin’s work-in-progress, “The House I Never Knew,” a six-part documentary series chronicling the lives of those struggling against the negative effects of such policies.

Both events are evidence of Cucalorus’ continued commitment to open communication. It’s something the festival has worked hard at developing and continues with the appointment of conference keynote speaker Nick Adkins. Adkins is the co-founder of Pinksocks Life, a nonprofit striving to create human connections around the world through the gifting of its trademark pink socks. He’ll speak Thursday at 4 p.m. on the power of connection.

Pinksocks supporters purchase socks via the company’s website, and are then expected to gift them to someone else in a

IT

OUT

Cucalorus’ tech and innovation conference strives to live up to its name moment of real connection. It may sound hokey, but Brawley says Adkins is an exemplar of what Connect hopes to achieve going forward.

“He’s going to give out a pair of pink socks at the end, and he’s going to probably ask everybody to stand up and stare at each other for 30 seconds, and I think that’s the perfect metaphor for where we are,” Brawley explains. “Connect is the place where we get in touch with our humanity.”

As Connect grows, its founder is excited about what’s coming next.

“Some people in the community are sort of wrestling with us a little bit about what [Connect] might be,” says Brawley.

“But that’s just like a 5-year-old kid, right?

A 5-year-old could still be an NBA star, [they] could still be an organic farmer. And that’s kind of exciting.”

Brawley and Cucalorus will continue to explore new avenues for discussion. The meatier the better—whether it’s housing policy, global connections or equal access to financial services and healthcare.

Brawley sees all of this as part of Cucalorus’ future.

“I think that’s probably what I’m really excited about,” he says. “We’re not just showcasing people who are going to make a lot of money. I could care less about just trying to make money. We’re actually showcasing people who are trying to make the world a better place.”

For full schedule of events, visit cucalorus.org/connect.

encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 9

24 N FRONT ST. DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON

(910)769-3794 FUNBOWLRAMEN.COM

Good times deserve great food!

Open 7 days a week

SUNDAY - THURSDAY, 11 A.M. - 9 P.M. • FRIDAY - SATURDAY, 11 A.M. - 10 P.M.

10 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

encore | november 6-12, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 11

FIT AS A FIDDLE Progressive bluegrass musician Sam Bush plays Brooklyn Arts Center on Thursday, November 21.

SOUND

Courtesy photo

BOARD

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Open Mic (6PM; FREE] Tidal Creek Co-Op, 5329 Oleander Dr.

Karaoke with Michael Norris (9pm; free) Bourbon St., 35 N. Front St.

JUSTIN FOX AND DAVID MORSE (7PM; FREE) SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N.

Pour Taproom, 201 N Front St Suite G101

Visual/Sound/Walls featuring G Yamazawa with Shirlette Ammons and Kid Ethnic (8PM; $15; music video concert)

Ballyhoo w/ Fayuca & VillaNova (7PM; $15-$20)

Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N. 4th St.

The Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front Street

Danny Korzelius (9PM; FREE)

Music Bingo (8pm; free)

Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14 LGBTQ Karaoke + Gaming Night (7pm; free) Bottega, 723 N. Fourth St.

KARAOKE $3.75 Red Oak Draft $4 Wells 65 Wings, 4-7pm $3.75 Sweetwaters $4.50 Absolute Lemonade

$3.75 Hay Bale Ale

$3.50 Pint of the Day $4 Fire Ball $5 Mimosas $5 Car Bombs

$3.75 Sweet Josie $4 Margaritas

$5 Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas *Drink Specials run all day

w/DJ Damo, 9PM

2 KILLIANS • $400 MAGNERS

$ 50

Thursday ________________________________________

TRIVIA

8:00 P.M. • PRIZES! • $250 YUENGLING DRAFT $ 50 3 FIREBALL SHOTS

Friday & Saturday __________________________

100 S. FRONT ST. 910-251-1832

LIVE MUSIC in the courtyard on Friday & Saturday MONDAY

$2.75 Domestic $3.50 Select Drafts $4 Fireballs!

TUESDAY

$3.50 Local Draft Brew

(Foothills Hoppyum IPA, Red Oak)

Sunday ___________________________________________

WEDNESDAY

2 BUD & BUD LIGHTS

BREAKFAST BUFFET 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. • $4 MIMOSA’S

12 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

HANK BARBEE (6PM; FREE; SINGER-SONGWRITER)

$3.00 PBR 16oz cans $3.00 Coors Light $6 Redbull and Vodka

LIVE MUSIC $ 00

Tarantelli’s, 102 S. 2nd St.

THURSDAY

1423 S. 3rd St. DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON (910) 763-1607 Tuesday __________________________________________

Chris Luther (6pm; free; Solo Jazz Guitar)

$5 Jameson

$3 Lagunitas $6 Knob Creek 1/2 price bottles of wine

FRIDAY

$3.00 Michelob Ultra $5.00 Lunazul Tequila All Floors open SATURDAY

$3 Miller Lite $3.50 Modelo $4 Smirnoff Lemon Drop shots $5 Raspberry Smirnoff w/mixer All Floors open SUNDAY

$3 Corona & Corona Light $4 Mimosa $4 Bloody Mary $5 Margarita

Your neighborhood drafthouse with a menu full of lowcountry favorites.

Join us for a hot meal and a cold pint.

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THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK: $3 SELECT PINTS & TEAM TRIVIA 7324 Market Street • 910-821-8185 www.ogdentaproom.com OPEN 7 DAYS AWEEK

Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut Street

Satellite Bar and Lounge, 120 Greenfield St.

Old Books on Front Street, 249 N. Front St.

Pro Musica Series: Minneapolis Guitar Quartet (7PM)

MAC and JUICE (9PM; ACOUSTIC)

Delia (4PM; $7)

Banks Channel, 530 Causeway Dr.

Live at Ted’s, 2 Castle St.

Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

Walker & Waide (10PM; COVERS)

Benny Hill Sunday Jazz Jam (7pm; free)

JARRETT RAYMOND (7PM; SINGER-SONGWRITER)

Duck and Dive, 114 Dock St.

Burnt Mill Creek, 2101 Market Street Unit 7

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18

Local Brews For Local Boobs w/ Adam Quinn (5PM; FREE)

Trivia Night at The Goat and Compass (6pm; free)

Wilmington Brewing Co., 824 S. Kerr Ave.

Trivia (7:30pm; free)

Chris Luther Trio (6pm; jazz)

Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

Tarantelli’s, 102 S. 2nd St.

Anything Goes Open Stage (8pm; free)

Stray Local (6PM; FREE)

The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

Open Mic Mondays w/Ken X (8pm; free)

Nov. 17: Organic CBD 4-course dinner

Travelin Jones (7PM; FREE; AMERICANA)

Bottega, 723 N. Fourth St.

portcitypop-ups.com

Stoked Restaurant, 313 Canal Dr., Carolina

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19

Beach Ave N.

Trivia (7:30pm; free) Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

Rockin’ Trivia w/Party Gras Entertainment (8pm; free) Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

Daniel Rottenberg (8PM; FREE) Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Goat & Compass, 710 N Fourth St.

The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

Ron & Luis (6PM; Standards)

Wilmington Symphony Masterworks Concert: Latin Soul (7:30; $17 - $47)

Far From France Patisserie & Bakery, The

The Wilson Center, 703 N. Third St.

Pointe, 1474 Barclay Pointe Blvd., Ste 204

Jared Michael Cline (8PM; FREE)

An Evening w/ Admiral Radio (7PM; $7)

Pour Taproom, 201 N. Front St.

Live at Ted’s, 2 Castle St.

Bumpin Uglies w/ Little Stranger (7PM)

The Penguin Presents: Great Peacock (8PM; $10; ROCK)

The Reel Cafe, 100 S. Front Street

Bourgie Nights, 127 Princess St.

MONICA HOELSCHER (7PM)

Moxie and Flow Live (7PM; COVERS) Stoked Restaurant, 313 Canal Dr., Carolina

Dylan Gilbert, Jphono1 and Nice Derek (8PM)

Beach Ave N.

Beach

Gravity Records, 612 Castle St.

Cody Wolfe (8PM; FREE; COUNTRY)

Conway and Symple (8PM; $5)

Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

Bottega, 723 N. Fourth St.

Evil Sword, w/ Antekirta / Bitter Inc / Rivolta / Austin Glover (8PM)

Jarrett Raymond (8PM; FREE; SINGER-SONGWRITER)

Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

SOUTHERN TROUBLE (8PM)

MWC + Poking Holes + Rumbletramp + Nonchalant Shotgun (8PM)

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina

Gravity Records, 612 Castle St.

Coastal Blues (8:30PM)

BACON GREASE (8PM)

Locals Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd. #9

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17

Tidal Creek Open Mic (6pm; free)

Books, Beer, and Jazz Piano with James Jarvis (3pm; free)

Karaoke with Michael Norris (9pm; free)

Beach Ave N.

The Dust Parade at Satellite (8:30; FREE)

Book your holiday party with us now!

Goat & Compass, 710 N Fourth Street

Two Blondes’ Trivia (7pm; free) Might As Well, 250 Racine Dr., #15

Trivia & Taco Tues. w/ Sherri ‘So Very!’ (7pm; free) Local’s Tavern, 1107 New Pointe Blvd.

SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina

Donnie and the Dry Heavers (8PM) The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle Street

Anything Goes Open Stage (8pm; free) The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle Street

Karaoke w/ DJ Damo (9pm; free) The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St.

$2 Tuesday at Duck & Dive with Randy McQuay (10PM)

227 CAROLINA BEACH AVE N. (910) 707-0533 • seawitchtikibar.com

THIS WEEK AT THE WITCH WED 11/13 JUSTIN FOX & DAVID MORSE FRI 11/15 BACON GREASE

THUR 11/14

JARRETT RAYMOND SAT 11/16 SOUTHERN TROUBLE

Duck and Dive, 114 Dock St.

Tidal Creek Co-Op, 5329 Oleander Drive. #100

online and in print!

It’s super easy!

1. Go to www.encorepub.com 2. Click on calendar tab 3. Click on red add your event button and fill in the info

Benny Hill’s Jazz Jam Every Sunday, 7-10pm

Open Mic Presented by Hourglass Studios (6:30pm; free)

List your live music, trivia and open mic nights

FREE

Monday Mules $5 serving over 22 craFT beers • all abc perMiTs

Beach

Beach Ave N.

2101 MarkeT sT uniT 7 (910) 599-4999

Tuesday 1/2-price wine bottles

CauseBeer Pint Night feat. Jon Hussman (5PM)

Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

Mon.-Thurs.: 4pM-12:30 aM Fri.-saT.: 4pM - 1:30aM sun: 4pM-11pM

www.RuckerJohns.com VISIT WWW.RUCKERJOHNS.COM FOR FRIDAY MONDAY DAILY SPECIALS, MUSIC & EVENTS Cosmopolitan $4.50 Select Appetizers 1/2 Off after MONDAY 5pm in bar and patio areas Watermelon Martini $6.50 DAYSeasonal Big Domestic22oz.

Draft Domestic Beers $2 Draft SamALL Adams Blue Pool Martini $6$5 Pizzas Bottles $3 TUESDAY TUESDAYSATURDAY Jack Be Chill $7.50 1/2 Off SelectLIVE Bottles of Wine IN THE JAzz BAR 22oz Deschutes Black Butte Absolute Dream $5 Half Price Bottles ofPorter Wine $5.50 $ 50 NC CraftAbsolut Bottles $3 5 • Pacifico 2 Willow Wit Dream $22oz Weeping WEDNESDAY Beer $5.50 WEDNESDAY 1/2 Off Nachos after 5pm 22oz Teach Peach Coronoa/ in bar andMiller patio Light areas Pints $150 Edward $ 50 $5.50 Wheat Domestic Pints $1.50Lite Bottles 2 Corona $ SUNDAY Corona/Corona Lt. $2.50 Margaritas/Peach Margaritas 4 Margaritas on the Rocks $4.50 All Flat Breads $6 after 5pm

THURSDAY in bar and patio areas

www.encorepub.com

THURSDAY $ $ $3 Mimosa Appletinis 4, RJ’s Painkiller 5 Truly Lime Spiked and $ 50 Mary $4 Bloddy 2 Red Stripe Bottles Sparkling Water $3 Domestic $ 50 Pints $1.50 2 Fat Tire Bottles 22oz. Tropical Lightning 5564 Carolina Beach Road IPA $5.50 FRIDAY(910)-452-1212 $ 50our website Sinking Bahama Mama $7 $4, 007Visit Cosmos 3 www.RuckerJohns.com $ 1/2 Off All Premium Guinnessfor Cans daily3specials, music and Red Wine Glasses upcoming events $

Island Sunsets 5 SATURDAY encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 13 $

BIRDS OF A FEATHER Nashville’s Great Peacock play Bourgie Nights on Saturday, November 16.

Courtesy photo

Bourbon St., 35 N. Front St.

1/2 PRICE BAR WITH THE JASON JACKSON DUO (7PM; FREE) SeaWitch Cafe and Tiki Bar, 227 Carolina Beach Ave N.

Danny Korzelius (9PM; FREE) Tails Piano Bar, 115 S. Front St.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21

Flytrap Brewing, 319 Walnut St.

The Wilson Center, 703 N. Third St.

LGBTQ Karaoke + Gaming Night (7pm; free)

Willie E. Atkinson and the Transitional Jazz Trio (6:30PM; $17-$25)

STEP CREW (7:30; $15-$46; Celtic)

Bottega, 723 N. Fourth St.

Sam Bush (6PM; $35; Bluegrass) Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N. 4th Str.

Chris Luther (6pm; free; Solo Jazz Guitar) Tarantelli’s, 102 So. 2nd St.

Donnie & the Dry Heavers (6PM; FREE)

Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

Randy McQuay (7PM; FREE) Edward Teach Brewing, 604 N 4th St.

North Carolina Symphony: Bernstein & Copland (7:30PM; $44-$60)

Thank you, Wilmington, For continuing to vote us best wine list!

small plates

OVER 400 WINES & over 40 CRAFT BEER

14 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St.

Trivia (7:30pm; free) Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St.

Rockin’ Trivia w/Party Gras Entertainment (8pm; free) Fox & Hound, 920 Town Center Dr.

29 S. FRONT ST. (910) 399-4292 FREE WINE TASTING TUESDAYS, 6-8PM @THEFORTUNATEGLASS

large selection of specialty cheese & charcuterie

A CHANGE OF HEART English pop rockers The 1975 visit PNA Arena on Tuesday, November 19.

Courtesy photo

REGIONAL THE ORANGE PEEL 101 BILTMORE AVE., ASHEVILLE, NC (828) 398-1837 11/13: Turnover & Men I Trust 11/14: Gaelic Storm 11/15: A Brother’s Revival 11/16: Rumours – Fleetwood Mac Tribute 11/17: Waltz Night 11/20: Jimmy Eat World

THE REEVES THEATER & CAFE 129 W. MAIN ST., ELKIN, NC (336) 258-8240 11/15: Town Mountain 11/16: Will Jones

NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE N. DAVIDSON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 358-9298

11/13: Dan Deacon, Rave Charles 11/14: Lady Lamb, Toth 11/15: Gaelic Storm 11/16: Dinosaur Jr., Easy Action 11/17: Lettuce, Ghost Note 11/18: Cordovas, Fedor & The Denim Denim 11/19: The Dip, Erin & The Wildfire 11/20: The Pineapple Thief, Gavin Harrison

THE FILLMORE

820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 11/16: Gravity Tour II 11/17: Conan Gray 11/19: Highly Suspect

THE FILLMORE UNDERGROUND

820 HAMILTON ST., CHARLOTTE, NC (704) 916-8970 11/14: Kim Petras - The Clarity Tour 11/15: Sullivan King 11/19: Waterparks 11/20: The Menzingers

DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 123 VIVIAN ST. DURHAM, NC (919) 688-3722 11/13: REO Speedwagon 11/16: Kansas

CONCERTS

11/18: The Last Waltz Tour 2019 11/20: The Doobie Brothers

LINCOLN THEATRE 126 E. CABARRUS ST., RALEIGH, NC (919) 821-4111 11/13: Pink Talking Fish 11/14-15: Cherub 11/16: Sullivan King 11/17: Afton Music Showcase

MOTORCO MUSIC HALL 723 RIGSBEE AVE, DURHAM, NC (919) 901-0875

11/14: Dead Men Rocking Starring 3AMSOUND & DOTWAV MEDIA with BLACKHAUS 11/15: G Yamazawa 11/16: Chastity Belt 11/17: With Confidence 11/20: Fruit Bats

CAT’S CRADLE 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 11/13: Kikagaku Moyo 11/14: Turnover & Men I Trust 11/15: Allah-Las 11/16: Gaelic Storm 11/17: Crumb

Featuring sushi, poke bowls, teriyaki and hibachi entrees, bento boxes, vegetarian, and sandwiches.

Daily food and drink specials.

SUSHI SPECIALS

Two specialty rolls

for $19.95

Three regular rolls

for $12.95

Specials only valid at the downtown location.

CAT’S CRADLE BACK ROOM 300 E. MAIN ST., CARRBORO, NC (919) 967-9053 11/15: black midi 11/17: EddieFest 2019 11/18: Guardin 11/19: Anna Tivel & Maya de Vitry 11/20: King Buffalo

PNC ARENA

1400 EDWARDS MILL RD., RALEIGH, NC (919) 861-2300 11/19: The 1975 11/20: Trans-Siberian Orchestra 11/22: Ariana Grande 11/24: Tool

Voted Best 16 S. Front St. • 910-772-9151 Dowtown Wilmington Sushi encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 15

PROLIFIC WRITER Singer-songwriter Erin McKeown plays the Carolina Pine Festival on Saturday at Waterline Brewing.

Courtesy photo

BY SHANNON RAE GENTRY

“I

actually came up and was raised by the poetry community in Durham and North Carolina,” says poet and emcee George Masao Yamazawa Jr., a.k.a. G Yamazawa. “So I can kind of speak a little bit more toward that community, as opposed to the music community. There’s a lot of intersections but it’s just a very tight-knit, family-oriented experience.”

Now living in Los Angeles, Yamazawa reminisces over the small-town approach to the arts, where it’s much less of a business and more about building spaces for people to explore, grow and commune. Just as well, he will return to NC this Wednesday to help kick off Cucalorus 25—a celebration of indie arts and artists, in film, stage arts and tech industries.

“Coming from smaller markets, there’s just not a lot of resources to do things like [Cucalorus] and to properly feel like we’re honoring artists and the communities that they’re from,” Yamazawa says. “So I think any kind of independent effort, whether it’s a festival or a label or just a one-off event, any type of opportunity to build a space where people can and are allowed to feel proud and feel honored, I think is important for everybody.”

G Yamazawa, along with Shirlette Ammons and visual artist Kid Ethnic (Saleem Reshamwala), will kick off the Visual/ Sound/Walls block at Brooklyn Art Center this Wednesday. The interactive music-video concert will feature a set from Yamazawa and Ammons, complemented

by Kid Ethnic’s visuals and videography.

VISUAL POETICS

G Yamazawa joins Shirlette Ammons and Kid Ethnic for Cucalorus’ Visual/Sound/Walls Hardly 30 years old, Yamazawa was the youngest National Poetry Slam Champion in 2014, and has won other accolades and honors like Kollaboration DC in 2012 and 2013’s Kundiman Fellowship. He began transitioning from poetry into rap in 2017 with “Shouts to Durham” and “Music to Inspire,” followed by “Money is Time” in 2018. Yamazawa is now working on a new album for a 2020 release. For Cucalorus, he’ll draw from his entire music catalog, as well as some new, unreleased material. “[I’ll pick songs] that allowed for the audience to actually be a part of the song,” he says. “Whether it’s call-and-response or something that’s easier for the audience to just attach themselves to, or there is a singular idea or theme they can grasp onto.”

Yamazawa comes from poetry, traditionally a place of thematic contemplation and intimate space. Moreover, his Buddhist upbringing while growing up in the South is often a topic in his art. He has had to adapt to the different setting of a rap concert (where people are likely drinking, loud and have a lot of energy to expel). He also has had to learn which tracks best connect with which audiences.

“I think certain songs speak to different demographics in different ways,” he iterates. “There’s a general rule where a certain song could do well in most demographics. . . . Like “North Cack” in North Carolina translates extremely well, but when I go to Boston or Chicago or LA, people are like ‘OK, barbecue sauce with the slaw, that’s cool.’ . . . I think it’s about find-

16 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

ing the songs that people can sort of attach their lives to and be able to enjoy, and not feel too much pressure.”

Yamazawa promises some of his best and most interactive work: call-and-response favorites like “What’s Good,” “Ego Trip” or “That’s My Shit.” He’ll marry it with visuals, which will project on every surface in the BAC 19th century church.

“I can’t lie to you, I’m actually pretty interested to see what’s going to happen and how it’s going to play out,” Yamazawa says. “This is my first time including visuals in a set. We’re still kind of figuring it out on my end as well, and how to make it a great experience and also try not to do too much experimenting that it would backfire.

I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

DETAILS G YAMAZAWA

with Shirlette Ammons and Kid Ethnic Wednesday, November 13, 8 p.m.

Brooklyn Arts Center 516 N. 4th St. Tickets per day: $15 GA, $30 VIP gyamazawa.com cucalorus.org/stage/visuDurham’s Shirlette Ammons is a mual-sound-walls sician and producer (“A Chef’s Life,” “The Hook”), and will have a live band backing her performance. She showed her documentary, “The Hook” (about Durham’s Saltbox chef Ricky Moore) at Cucalorus’s Works-in-Progress Lab in 2018. Ammons’ work is deeply rooted in her rural upbringing and navigates issues of gender and LGBTQIA+ advocacy in her music, which traverses hip-hop, spoken-word, indie rock and pop.

The whole immersive video concept for Visual/Sound/Walls was started by Cucalorian Johnny Gray, who wanted to merge media for a live performance like no other. This year’s production will feature Reshamwala VJing for the evening starting at 9 p.m., with roughly 20 curated vids mixed with live drums and other instrumentals.

This is Reshamwala’s first time at Cucalorus and he will fulfill more of the “visual” in Visual/Sound/Walls “For my part of the show I put together a setlist of music videos I’ve collaborated on (mainly as director or co-director, though on some projects with friends, there’s no formal titles and we might even be passing a camera around),” he explains. “I’m going to play a block of 45 minutes or so, but

rather than just pushing play, I’m going to be doing a bit of video remixing live alongside beatmaker John Laww and drummer Griffin Wade. They’ll do improvised music in between videos, it’s our first time doing anything like this.

Reshamwala also travels the world, collaborating with artists and filmmakers around themes of culture, ethnicity and music. Reshamwala is a journalist and filmmaker who collaborated on G Yamazawa’s “North Cack” music video, which won Best Music Video at the 2017 Hip Hop Film Festival in Harlem. He’ll screen “North Cack” and another long-take experimental music video featuring Young Bull.

“I’ll also have videos that I’ve filmed with collaborators in Panama, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Croatia and Ethiopia,” Reshamwala details. “With music videos, I’m trying to figure out the weirdest point where we can both meet, what crazy ideas do they have, what do I have, where can it come together into something new.”

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LOVERS’ PICNIC Joy James JJ LaBeet plays Kitty Futrelle and Rob Smith plays Balaam Futrelle in Alicia Inshiradu’s ‘What the River Knows.’

Courtesy of Playingod Films

MAGNUM

BY SHEA CARVER

G

reat art often takes decades to complete. Francis Ford Coppola spent four years making “Apocalypse Now.” DaVinci’s “Mona Lisa” took 17 years.

Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona started construction in 1882 and isn’t scheduled for completion until 2026. Wilmington’s very own auteur, Alicia Inshiradu, of Playingod Films, has been working on a passion project for more than 20 years: “What the River Knows.” What began as a master’s thesis in 1997 at UNCW made its way through multiple schools, from ECU to NYU, during Inshiradu’s academic career.

“I decided I needed to follow in Spike Lee’s footsteps and make my first film as a grad student at NYU,” Inshiradu says. “I knew right away I wanted to write a fictional feature-length screenplay with the backdrop of the Wilmington 1898 riots.”

Officially recognized as a coup just last week on its NC historic marker, the massacre of Wilmington 1898 refers to horrific murders and the disenfranchisement of African-Americans in Wilmington. The minority race was in control of local government in 1898, but were overthrown by white supremacists in the middle of the night on November 10.

Inshiradu has been writing her dramatic feature with historical accuracy of the in-

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DETAILS WHAT THE RIVER KNOWS: FROM SCREENPLAY TO SILVER SCREEN Thursday, November 14, 4 p.m.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, 111 Grace St. Tickets: $10 • cucalorus.org/stage/ what-the-river-knows surgency but also including a supernatural bent. “A man is murdered and secretly buried in 1898, and after 100 years, he has still not been found—or missed,” she explains.

“This is the trope which dictates the film: The past has been buried and is now being unearthed. And the spirit is determined that the past will be excavated when his spitting-image reticent descendant returns to his hometown of Wilmington.”

The film follows the story of Balaam Futrelle (Rob Smith), who was the only bill poster and sign painter in Wilmington. Because he was black, he was killed and buried in a slave cemetery by his arch nemesis in November 1898 during the white-supremacist massacre. His wife, Kitty (Joy James JJ LaBeet), died during child birth, while hiding out in a dank swamp. 100 years later, in 1998, Bailey Futrelle (Rob Smith) returns home to Wilmington to bury his grandmother, and unearths hidden secrets of his family and the city of his youth, when ghosts of the past return to him.

Inshiradu found Fuller’s real-life business listed in the JL Hill 1897 Business Directory during research. She read numerous books and articles on 1898, like “Hanover, Or, Persecution of the Lowly: Story of the Wilmington Massacre,” a 1901 novella by Jack Thorne,

18 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

who was an anti-lynching pamphleteer from Wilmington; Phillip Gerard’s 1994 novel, “Cape Fear Rising”; and Sr. H. Leon Prather’s 1984 seminal nonfiction book, “We Have Taken A City, the Wilmington Racial Massacre and Coup of 1898.” She studied documents in the public library’s NC Room and Cape Fear Museum, and interviewed several connected individuals around Wilmington.

In 2001, Inshiradu received the NC Arts Council grassroots grant to adapt the script into a stage play. She kept editing and rewriting, and after retiring as an instructor of African-American literature at Cape Fear Community College in 2014, she went from screenwriter to filmmaker. She reached out to her 31-year-old son, KC Alexander, to take over cinematography and editing. They launched a successful Indiegogo campaign to continue funding, and received the 2017 Cucalorus Filmed in NC Grant.

Through various incarnations of the project—including workshopping it in 2001 with Cucalorus executive director Dan Brawley, while both teaching students at DREAMS of Wilmington and overseeing leadership roles in the Wilmington (cofounding Black Arts Alliance and Cine Noir: A Festival of Black Film)—Inshiradu had rewritten her 22-minute film 13 times. Without post-production funds, she couldn’t get the project in front of camera. Then, three backers, Michael Barron, Janette Hopper and Charles Kernan, stepped in to help fund a five-day shoot.

Fourteen actors and three voice-over actors, all local to Wilmington, have shown up to film at Poplar Grove, Walkerworld Artist Retreat, Brand Engine studio, and a historic home on 7th Street. More than 50 local crew joined the project, including 1898 costume designer Mary Connor, set designer Erica Fester, makeup artist/hair stylist John-Paul Coffman and William H Stine. “William created special effects makeup, dead black bodies and pregnant bellies,” Inshiradu says.

After 300 shots, Inshiradu did yet another narrative edit to ensure audiences would understand what really went down on November 10, 1898. Aided by voice-over narra-

OPUS Local filmmaker works on 1898 film for two decades, gives first look at Cucalorus tor Chuck Denson, the story weaves seamlessly between historic events and dramatic scenes of the Balaam family in 1898 and the Futrelle family in 1998.

“The last scene, set in 1998, was the hardest,” according to Inshiradu. “We lost light and sound and valuable time, and had no money or time to do reshoots.”

The version shown on November 14 during Cucalorus is a rough cut­. The proofof-concept film is more like a teaser or glorified trailer, shot from her 120-page thesis.

“Hopefully, it will make it to the silver screen some day,” Inshiradu tells.

“The goal of this whole project is to rewrite and strengthen the feature in order to attract investors or studios who can make a longer movie happen,” she adds.

Inshiradu promises the staged reading will be more than actors reciting lines; it will be action-packed and injected with life.

Then, the 22-minute short will make its debut. Her goal is for viewers to exit the presentation—which screens amidst the 121st anniversary of 1898—armed with the truth of what happened in one of America’s only coup d’etat.

“Also, I want to pose questions of what it will take to redeem this American city,” she says. “All African-American stories have a tendency to fit into the horror genre. As my creative process evolves, my story is more a visitation from a resilient spirit than a ghost story; however, it is inspired by a horrific event—the worst day in Wilmington history.”

DIGITAL DEPENDENCY ‘OK GURGLE’ debuts in Wilmington at Cucalorus Festival.

Courtesy photo

WHERE THE

PEOPLE

ARE

BY SHANNON RAE GENTRY

“J

ust like Ariel [from ‘The Little Mermaid’], we all wanna be where the people are,” artist Alexis Powell says. She’s talking about connectivity— especially between artists, musicians and working creatives in the digital age. “Big tech knows that and uses it to its advantage.”

“I love the internet,” Candace B. Thompson adds. “I was an early smart-phone adopter, and I use Instagram constantly in my work as an artist—even though I can’t stand what Facebook has become. [At the moment,] it is the closest thing we have to a commons for sharing information and building community while also working several jobs and trying to sleep.”

Powell and Thompson traverse modern-day conundrums of a digitally dependent world in “OK GURGLE,’ a multimedia, sound and music production, as part of the Cucalorus Stage block. The production is slated for two shows at Whiskey Tango Foxtrot this weekend. Using their own personal data, as well as speech-to-text transcriptions, “accidental” Google recordings and the like, Powell and Thompson explore digital codependency and consensual surveillance by marrying original songs with visuals and audience engagement.

“OK GURGLE” has been in development for two years and only performed twice so far. Powell and Thompson workshopped the production and added new elements to create the latest iteration, which serves as their Cucalorus debut.

“We’re also starting to incorporate a postshow ‘aftercare’ into the evening,” Thompson says, “where we’ll talk with the audience about the issues that arise in the piece, and offer them some hands-on tools for regaining agency over their data.”

Audience collaboration is at the heart of “OK, Gurgle”—in its message and in its progression. “We really want people to both have feelings about the issues we are drawing awareness to (surveillance capitalism, personal data collection) and our general complicity to these situations while also offering tools for taking some control back in

tionally) for us to do so.

DETAILS OK GURGLE Friday, November 15, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 16, 4 p.m.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, 111 Grace St. Tickets $15 • cucalorus.org/stage/ ok-gurgle/ relation to them,” Powell tells.

Though it’s Thompson and Powell’s first time at Cucalorus, both are seasoned artists.

Thompson has been a part of food justice and ecology projects, like The Collaborative Urban Resilience Banquet (C.U.R.B.) and can be seen on Instagram @the_c_u_r_b. Powell also has a self-therapeutic Instagram video series @alexis_growl. The artists have taken the time to share more on the impetus for “OK GURGLE” and how Cucalorus audiences can connect (or disconnect) with the show. encore (e): How has “OK GURGLE” changed over time, based on new happenings and breaking news when it comes to internet privacy, data collection, etc?

Candace B. Thompson (CBT): Lex and I basically send each other texts every day with news articles about how some such company just had a massive database leak or how Facebook did some new nefarious thing, but the larger ideas remain consistent across time (for now, at least).

Alexis Powell (AP): It’s actually impossible to incorporate this news at the pace in which it’s being released.

CBT: While our piece is about data itself, it’s really more an exploration of emotional reasons and why we reach for these devices— how they have been engineered to make it as easy (professionally, technically and emo-

AP: Exactly—why are we always choosing to “accept” the terms of service of our apps and devices without ever reading the fine print of what that means? Have we become so addicted to our phones we no longer care (Dis)connect with ‘OK GURGLE’ about our data privacy, or has big tech become so attuned to our “needs” and vulnerat Cucalorus 25 abilities we are now in a totally codependent relationship? How do we get out of this rela- of amazing to hear the lyrics because you’ll tionship? Do we want to? think we’re being reductive or pithy, but it’s CBT: That’s where we think the real work literally just a straight copy/paste from their has to be done: helping us all uncouple from legal. For this iteration (graphics are always the compulsion engineered into this technol- in flux), we’ve just screenshot that language ogy, and asking these companies to be held in order for the audience to see that we’re not accountable for the ways in which they inten- making this shit up! tionally manipulate us.

e: Which aspect(s) of the performance do you think most visibly impact audiences? e: Tell us more about the original music elements of the show. Were they specifically AP: We intend to ask our Cucalorus audiwritten for “OK, Gurgle,” or did they just hap- ences this for sure! I think, in general, it is the pen to fit? ways in which folks see themselves and their CBT: Lex is an amazing musician and with behaviors mirrored back to them. this project (and others we’ve done) the songs emerge from the data we gather. We do some Googling and screenshotting, and she just goes off and comes back with something, and I’m like, “Cool!” These songs are original for this piece and are literally copy-pulled from spam emails, the Google privacy terms and conditions, Google searches results, etc.

AP: Yeah, this is my favorite way to compose. I guess this is our performance company’s own method of “data collection”—we gather up a ton of research on the topics that make us curious, confused, scared, etc. and then turn them over musically and theatrically until they can be examined in a new light.

For me, this kind of arts-based research and exploration through various kinds of embodiment helps me grapple with topics overwhelming to my brain.

CBT: We’re in it (and running every cue in real time) so it’s hard to say because it’s a bit of a whirlwind for us. When we’ve performed it before, we’ve had lots of different responses. I think it depends on the individual’s age and fluency with these tools. It’s our hope most people see something in here that reflects back to them a digital habit they have; though, we hope to keep expanding from here forward and represent the broader implications these tools have for people with less privilege.

Digital space—like real space—is more fraught for black, indigenous, people of color (BIPOC), LGBTQIA+, women, poor people, immigrants and children than it is for the Mark Zuckerbergs, Tim Cooks and Sergei Brins of the world. People need to know, even if a certain tool doesn’t hurt them personally, its Candace is also an amazing musician, by widespread adoption can have real-world impacts on other more marginalized groups. the way.

In my honest opinion, we need to think cole: Can you give us an example of one of the lectively about internet safety and make sure songs and visuals you chose to pair with it? the least amongst us are also protected.

CBT: One of the newer songs we have Read an extended interview with Thompis where Lex has created a little bop for the son and Powell at encorepub.com. terms and conditions we all agree to. It’s kind

encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 19

HINDRANCE OF FREEDOM Julian Scober plays Robert Hayes, who gives a false statemnet that puts him on death row.

Photo by James Bowling

BALANCED

BY CHASE HARRISON

B

y participating in live theatre, people have a chance to discover new aspects of themselves. The audience of any play sees a world removed from them, hopefully expanding their sense of empathy in return. Big Dawg Productions is doing exactly that with “The Exonerated.” The harrowing half-play, half-documentary shines an uncompromising light on the pitiful state of America’s criminal justice system, proving, sadly, there is more than one way to take a person’s life.

Interweaving six true stories of people wrongfully convicted of crimes and their time lost on death row, “The Exonerated” explores pointed accounts that are sharp and shaped with great care and compassion by writers Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen. The play is constructed in monologue-vignette style, with a core cast playing the convicted. A well-assembled ensemble jumps in and out of an endless number of loved ones, lost ones, cops and accomplices. It’s a tight-knit tale, which could have succumbed to melodrama if not properly controlled. Luckily, director Josh Bailey has led the production into success. There is a balanced honesty and sadness to the show without giving into the bleakness it depicts. Its plot may be dark, but its message is certainly about the light which hope provides.

The production manages to put the audience in the throes of confinement, as captive as the play’s characters. The feat is achieved by the combination of Donna Troy and Jeff Loy’s skills in set design.

Troy plays with scope and depth that perfectly transforms the black box theater.

Crime-scene tape wraps around chairs, which wrap around the room as the theater merges with the reality of the play.

They trap the viewer in the same cell as

DETAILS THE EXONERATED November 14-17, 21-24 Cape Fear Playhouse, 613 Castle St. Tickets: $15-$25 bigdawgproductions.org the viewed.

Upon entering, audience members may be taken aback as to where they can sit.

A jury box is built to the left of the stage and a metallic painted row of bars line the right. Seats are available in these areas, though the night I caught the show, questions were raised as to if they were open to the public. I recommend filling them, if not for a different perspective to view the play, it will surely help the blocking.

Blocked in a promenade style, actors appear free-range. When located in a sparsely filled spot, it leads to moments falling flat due to where they happened to be staged. At times the back of the actors’ heads will be all some audience members can see.

Because the subject matter is based on true accounts, actors must play to the authenticity of every situation; it’s crucial. An innocent person doesn’t believe the system could fail him as poorly as it in fact does. The cast here is more than capable of anchoring the true horrors these real-life people had to face and endure. Their introduction is clever and something I will not give away here, but let’s just say it’s han-

encorepub.com 20 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

dled in a very natural and human manner.

Victims are all around us, and audiences never know a stranger’s story.

The audience follows the fall and continued fall of characters, one after the other, as they lay out their cases: victims of circumstance, wrong place, wrong time— worse yet, wrong place, wrong time and wrong color.

Lupin Byers takes on the task of giving life to the tragic story of Sunny Jacobs with stunning grace. The happy hippie mother of two loses everything, due to a fabricated affidavit for the murder of a police officer from a seedy acquaintance (J.R. Rodriguez, in one of his many great roles here). Jacobs and her husband fight for freedom and normality, while awaiting their deaths. The sweetness of how they make love through letters written in Japanese brings such joy, and it’s just a win for Byers. It can only be matched by how she sorely and elegantly plays it when she realizes she must tell her husband’s story as well as her own. It hits the audience hard.

Rich Deike as Gray Gauger and Julian Scober as Robert Hayes are both monstrous examples of how arrests are closer to a met quota than justice served. Both men portray victims of the whole goodcop, bad-cop routine, showing that torture takes more forms than physical pain.

Deike gives a real stand-out performance as a man accused of murdering his mother and father. Beat down by the barking of an abusive cop (J.R. Rodriguez once again ducking and weaving seamlessly between roles), he gives a false statement that hinders his freedom. While it could be played over-the-top, it’s balanced with an earned pathos.

Ben Hart as David Keaton shows us a life lost from incarceration. A man of great faith finds himself abandoned by God. A howled cough of a prayer is all he can muster and it truly shows what injustice looks like.

Bringing swagger for days is Charles

HONESTY

Big Dawg brings an impactful piece of theatre to stage in ‘The Exonerated’ Auten as Kerry Max Cook. Auten certainly has a strong stage presence and he hits all the emotional beats needed. Yet, because of the intimacy of the venue, a lot of it plays too big and at times crosses over to hammy, mugging for the audience.

Robert Bellamy as Delbert Tibbs is a fellow exonerated, but more so he seems like an overarching narrator for the drama—almost disembodied from even his own story. His voice brings reverence to the material, but the fact he is reading from a script onstage is a notable distraction to pacing and line delivery.

Making up the ensemble outside of J.R Rodriguez is Heather M. Lindquist-Bull, Anthony Corvino and Tyana Rumbeau.

They truly give their all, in a whirlwind of roles. Lindquist-Bull as Kerry’s wife crumbles when even she questions his innocence. It’s aching to watch Corvino as Jesse Jacobs carry the weight of ruining his own life and his wife’s life. Tyana Rumbeau brings a deep understanding of the predetermined fate her husband befalls as a black man accused. Rodriguez’s most memorable role is something of an evil Matlock railroading Kerry’s case.

It’s long thought that justice is blind because it is fair. Though, it’s not blind—just blindfolded. What Bailey and Big Dawg have set out to do with Wilmington’s debut production of “The Exonerated” is to remove the blindfold from justice’s eyes and from the audience’s as well. The story may be painful to watch, but it’s a mustsee and a needed one, regardless.

GALLERY art exposure!

22527 Highway 17N Hampstead, NC (910) 803-0302 • (910) 330-4077 Tues. - Sat. 10am - 5pm (or by appt.) www.artexposure50.com

ArtExposure will be hosting “Metal and Fiber, a show featuring the metal work of Vicki Thatcher and the Fiber work of Jan Lewis. The show will run until the end of August. Check out our new website at www. artexposure50.com to see upcoming events and classes!

ART IN BLOOM GALLERY

210 Princess St. • (484) 885-3037 Tues. - Sat. 10am - 6pm (or by appt., Sun. and Mon.) • aibgallery.com

View “Take Four: New Art by Joanne Geisel, Ann Hair, Barbara Bear Jamison, and Gale Smith” through November 17th. All proceeds from a raffle and a portion of art sales will benefit Lower Cape Fear Hospice.

The gallery is open until 9 pm on Fourth Friday Gallery Nights. Join us on Sunday, November 17th, 3-5 pm for a special reception for artist and actor, Richard Bunting. Meet the artist and view beautiful, blown-glass art.

ART OF FINE DINING

www.aibgallery.com In addition to our gallery at 210 Princess Street, Art in Bloom Gallery partners with local businesses to exhibit original art in other locations. Current exhibits: “Homegrown: New Paintings by Angela Rowe continues through January 13th, 2020 at PinPoint Restaurant, 114 Market Street. Meet the artist at a Champagne Toast & Special Reception on Tuesday, November 12th, 5:30 - 6:30 pm. The reception is free and open to the public. These stunning oil paintings explore the movement of food from farms and waters to markets and to table.

“Works of Art by Kirah Van Sickle” continues through February 3rd, 2020 at Platypus & Gnome Restaurant, 9 South Front Street.

Meet the artist at a Champagne Toast & Special Reception on Thursday, November 14th, 6-8 pm. The reception is free and open to the public. The artist’s acrylic and mixed media works combine found objects and papers with paint glazes.

A Pop-Up Art Exhibit, “It’s About Time: Art

by Elizabeth Darrow, Virginia Wright-Frierson + Friends” continues through December 28th, 2019 at 216 N. Front Street. (the for-

GUIDE

mer Expo216 Building). View the art Tuesday-Sunday from noon until 5 pm and until 9 pm on Fourth Friday Gallery Nights including November 22nd. Join us for additional special receptions: Meet the artist, Elizabeth Darrow; view a short film about Elizabeth’s process; and enjoy snacks on Saturday, Nov. 16, 6-8 pm.

CHARLES JONES AFRICAN ART

311 Judges Rd., Unit 6-E • (910) 794-3060 • Mon. – Fri. 10am 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm - 4 pm Open other hours / weekends by appt. cjafricanart.com

Fresh From the Farm The Riverfront Farmers Market is a curbside market featuring local farmers, producers, artists & crafters.

Downtown Wilmington’s Riverfront Farmers Market

DOWNTOWN (Dock St., on the

NEW N O LOCATI

block between Front and 2nd Streets)

Each Saturday

March 23rd - November 24th • 8:00am - 1:00pm (no market Apr. 6 & Oct. 5)

African art: Museum quality African Art from West and Central Africa. Traditional African art for the discerning collector.

Current exhibition: Yoruba beadwork and Northern Nigerian sculpture. Appraisal services, curatorial services and educational exhibitions also available.

Over 30 years experience in Tribal Arts.

Our clients include many major museums.

NEW ELEMENTS GALLERY

271 N. Front St. • (919) 343-8997. Tues.

- Sat.: 11am - 6pm (or by appt.) newelementsgallery.com

Fur, Feathers and Fair Winds combines two artists work that have very different styles- Todd Carignan is a traditional oil painter creating mood with color and brushstrokes, taking you to the water’s edge and the horizon where water meets the sky.

Mark Weber uses oil and ink to also create a mood, and transport you to the jungle, or the wilderness in your own backyard.

WILMA W. DANIELS GALLERY

200 Hanover St. (bottom level, parking deck) Mon.-Fri., noon-5pm http://cfcc.edu/danielsgallery

Wilma D Daniels Gallery presents: The No Boundaries International Art Colony exhibition opens, featuring the works of national and international artists. This year’s exhibition features artists from Japan, Spain, Turkey and the United States.

The opening reception begins is November 16, 6 p.m.

- FRUITS - VEGETABLES - PLANTS - HERBS

- FLOWERS - EGGS - CHEESES - WINE

- PICKLES - KOMBUCHA - ART & CRAFTS

- MEATS - SEAFOOD - HONEY - BAKED GOODS

For more information: www.riverfrontfarmersmarket.org

encore encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 21

TIME SERVED 'Frances Ferguson' takes a look at a teacher's life after being charged as a sex offender for having an affair with a student.

Courtesy photo

CHARACTER

BY ANGHUS

T

he wonderful thing about film festivals is how they can be a gateway to discovering new voices, cinematic styles and ways to challenge conventions. A film festival like Cucalorus gives opportunities for moviegoers to step out of their comfort zones and discover new sights and sounds. Film festivals helped me discover artists like Park Chan-wook ("Old Boy") and Werner Herzog ("Into the Abyss"). One of my favorite Cucalorus discoveries is writer/director Bob Byington. In 2012, Cucalorus screened his film "Somebody Up There Likes Me" and I was hooked.

"Frances Ferguson" is an uncommon character study that takes us through the utterly chaotic world of Frances (Katey Wheless), whom we meet at the precipice of her downward spiral. She’s a substitute teacher in a loveless marriage and struggles to make any sense of the world she has found herself in. Her husband (Byington) is equally lost and the two trade low-volume barbs at one another as their wedded bliss has turned into a toxic mess.

They have a child, Parfait (Ella Dolan), who feels obligatory and like just another point of contention in their rapidly disintegrating relationship.

A

h, there is nothing more satisfying than a good, dark piece of social satire. It’s hard not to love the central creative thesis behind Onur Tukel’s obsidian oddity, “Black Magic for White Boys.” What if an asshole real-estate developer got his hand on a book of spells that would allow him to get rid of pesky rent-controlled tenants or landowners not willing to sell their property.

It’s a wonderfully insidious premise and just one aspect of this insanely entertaining comedic farce.

Larry (Ronald Guttman) has been trying to get his magic act off the ground

DETAILS FRANCES FERGUSON November 15, 7:45 p.m.

November 17, 4:30 p.m.

Thalian Hall, 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org/film/ frances-ferguson At school, Frances catches the eye of a handsome student and begins to fantasize about the kind of illegal activities that turn teachers into tabloid headlines.

In spite of being well aware of the circumstances, she starts an emotional affair that soon turns physical. Eventually, the truth comes out and becomes the final hammer strike that destroys the foundation of her family.

Soon Frances is a sex offender being sent to jail. She comes out the other side having to deal with a number of challeng-

DARK SOCIAL

SATIRE Surreal fun is had in ‘Black Magic for White Boys’

22 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

es, including therapy, community service and trying to find a sense of purpose.

There’s a wonderful lack of emotionality to Frances. She’s young, beautiful and self-aware but struggles to understand why any of it matters. Her face is constantly stuck in a stoic frown that shows the world her indifference. The world feels more tolerated than inhabited. Even when the gradually more depressing aspects of her existence are revealed, they feel like another inconvenience.

Byington employs a lo-fi approach to both how the movie is filmed and the performances of his cast. There are not any big emotional outbursts or melodramatic moments; every scene is played with a deadpan delivery that makes everything feel wonderfully unforced.

Katey Wheless does a great job portraying this patently unlikable protagonist in a way that is both engrossing and amusing.

The character is so wonderfully apathetic about everything that her wholesale dismissal of her rapidly disintegrating existence feels more amusing as the story unfolds. Nick Offerman ("Parks and Rec") provides narration, commentary and the occasional red herring, which adds to the strange storybook feel of the movie.

in an Off-off-Broadway theater to little fanfare. He learns, due to slow ticket sales and a lack of interest in renting the venue to other performers, that he could lose his beloved performance space. The show becomes a much bigger success when he decides to start introducing the dark arts to theater-goers, much to the chagrin of his wife who provides him with dire warnings of his reckless actions.

Oscar (Tukel) is a trust-fund baby who has lived his entire life consequence-free, thanks to choice real-estate holdings.

He’s an arrogant, remorseless asshole with no redeeming qualities—a misguided misanthrope whose every instinct is

STUDY ‘Frances Ferguson' is a wonderfully unforced drama

In a more serious film, I might have struggled with the random entry and exit points of this story. The characters that populate this heightened reality are all wonderfully sleight. Whether it be Frances' perpetually disappointed mother, consistently disappointing husband, or the group therapist that helps give her a healthy dose of perspective, everyone has a purpose and vanishes as the narrator informs the audience this is the last time they’ll be seeing this particular supporting character.

I enjoyed "Frances Ferguson," thanks to Wheless’s dark charisma and Byington’s cinematic world view. It presents us with something that feels both absurd and weirdly grounded. Byington strips away the melodrama and pretension to deliver an awkward, amusing and ultimately entertaining pop-up book version of a character study.

self-serving and usually horrifying. He meets Chase (Charlie LaRose) and ends up entangled in a horrifying relationship of lies and deception, ultimately leading to Oscar trying to find a way out. Yet, that's difficult after Chase reveals she’s pregnant with his unborn child.

His first forays into ending Chase’s pregnancy involve the use of his dealer/ apothecary (Franck Raharinosy), who has his own kind of magic: pills that can take care of almost any malady. Unfortunately for Oscar, he also has a conscience, so when he realizes Chase wants to keep the fetus he refuses to complete the transaction. Fortunately, for Oscar, his

BAND GIRL Raven Whitley plays Carolyn in ‘Knives and Skin,’ which feels like an extended cut of Gwen Stefani’s video for ‘Hollaback Girl.’

Courtesy photo

WONDERFULLY

BY ANGHUS

S

omeone recently asked me what I’m looking for when reviewing a movie. It’s a question that gets lobbed at critics every so often. When I started reviewing movies 8 billion years ago, I probably would have offered a lofty diatribe, breaking down my assessment of the acting, directing, writing, cinematography and a number of technical categories, before deciding whether the movie passed my rigorous grading system. Nowadays, after thousands upon thousands of reviews, the goal is much simpler: I just want to see something entertaining, surprising or both. "Entertaining" and "surprising" are two words that aptly describe Jennifer Reeder’s "Knives and Skin."

DETAILS KNIVES AND SKIN November 15, 3:30 p.m.

Thalian Main, 301 Chestnut St. November 17, 6:45 p.m.

Thalian Main, 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org/film/ knives-and-skin

There’s a scene near the middle of the movie, one of the film’s many moments that uses music to set the mood where I literally declared out loud, “This shit is bananas ... B-A-N-A-N-A-S!” The film’s high-school-by-way-of-music-video vibe reminded me of Gwen Stefani’s “Hollaback Girl." “Knives and Skin" is a unique, weird experience, rooted in a wide range of influences—from "Twin Peaks" to "Pretty in Pink."

Carolyn (Raven Whitley) is a band girl with a bad streak who takes Andy (Ty Olwin) to the lake with promises of unemotional skin-to-skin contact. When she changes her mind and spurns his advances, Andy pulls a classic dick move and abandons Carolyn, leaving her stranded. The problem is exacerbated when Carolyn vanishes and a town full of secrets and lost souls begins to interact.

DETAILS

only friend, greedy real-estate developer Jamie (Lou Jay Taylor), has discovered Larry’s real-life magic act and found some wonderful applications for making people disappear.

BLACK MAGIC FOR WHITE BOYS

After striking a deal with Larry, Jamie begins to make his low-rent tenants vanish, allowing him to start raising prices and get extra-rich, thanks to the gentrification washing over Brooklyn and every other NYC borough. Soon enough, unruly renters and property owners are whisked away with an incantation and the wave of a black handkerchief. Oscar realizes he might be able to use this same trick to get rid of Chase’s unborn baby.

November 14, 3:45 p.m.

Thalian Ballroom, 301 Chestnut St. November 17, 9:30 p.m.

Thalian Black Box, 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org/film/ black-magic-for-white-boys

The cast of colorful, eccentric charac-

ters are wonderfully Lynchian. Dan (Tim Hopper) is a part-time clown, struggling with issues of failure and fidelity. Carolyn’s mother, Lisa (Raven Whitley), starts the movie as an odd bird but takes full flight after her daughter vanishes, giving her a number of absolutely mesmerizing scenes where she tries to discover truth about Carolyn’s disappearance. Reeder’s cast really deserves a shout out. It's a large, diverse ensemble that does a great job making the world feel real enough to engage emotionally. The danger of something as oddly wonderful as "Knives and Skin" is how removed it can feel from recognizable reality. Thankfully, this wellpicked cast helps keep the real in surreal.

There’s a lovely musical motif woven through the movie. A capella performances of some well-known '80s pop music help take things further into surreal territory and builds on an engaging score by Nick Zinner. This is a movie where music feels like a consideration from the project’s inception, and it shows. I appreciate Reeder’s attempts at using music as something other than emotional color. It shows how fully realized this technicolor vision was before bringing it to the screen.

What I love about “Black Magic for White Boys” is how preposterous yet plausible the story feels. Tukel’s take on modern-day New York is rooted in reality but hyper-realized into absurdity. There are a number of characters and subplots woven into the story, including the romance of Larry’s magical assistants, which are interesting enough to fill out the story but never feel particularly necessary.

LYNCHIAN

‘Knives and Skin' is fully realized with technicolor vision There are some moments where the narrative begins to drift and I wondered which way the wayward threads would careen. All the characters seem connected by plot elements and a tangential sense of suffering, which can at times make things feel a little melodramatic.

It’s a fair trade for a movie that manages to deftly avoid cliché. I don’t ever recall seeing a movie where a clown performs cunnilingus. Now I have.

"Knives and Skin" is a feature-film foray that weaves a number of influences into something cinematically unique. Its vibe is macabre and darkly comic, like "Heathers" or "Jawbreaker," but embraces some stranger artistic impulses. It's worth a watch.

bits of satire. As in previous works, Tukel is more than willing to focus on characters beyond unlikable. "Unlikable" might not be a strong enough word to describe Oscar and Jamie, but it's their complete lack of a moral compass that makes their actions both fascinating and funny.

While not as tightly assembled as his earlier movies, there’s a lot to appreciate in “Black Magic for White Boys." Tukel has created another solid, surreal story Tukel has assembled a wonderful en- and sticks the landing on his supernatsemble of performers who all have a ural set-up. great time engaging in these comedic

—Anghus shenanigans. In spite of the story's overthe-top elements, there are some great encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 23

SYSTEMIC

INJUSTICE Two docs examine racism in America very angry white people around, desperate to remind everyone of their antiquated ways of thinking and so-called values the rest of us would prefer to move past.

For anyone who thinks we were living in a post-racial America, the last three years should have been a blunt wake-up call.

Our country and the institutions that support it continue to engage in systemic ostracizing of minorities.

BY ANG

HUS

A

s a life-long Southerner, I’m aware the concept of race is something that can be as all-encompassing as one allows it to be. I can choose to walk downtown and be oblivious to the multiple Confederate monuments staring down at me, or remember there’s a lot of

ABOUT FACE Lennon Lacy’s family seeks justice for his lynching in ‘Always in Season’ by Jackie Olive.

Courtesy photo

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24 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

Two documentaries at this year’s Cucalorus take on the topic of racism in very different ways. “Always in Season” is a brutal and damning examination of the suspected lynching of 17-year-old Lennon Lacy in nearby Bladenboro, North Carolina.

Filmmaker Jacqueline Olive, who used to live in Wilmington, deftly weaves the tragedy of Lennon Lacy into a number of other nefarious lynchings and unapologetic portrayals of such heinous crimes. In 1934, Claude Neal was accused of raping a white woman, prompting a mob to show up to torture and lynch him without due process.

The Claude Neal lynching is particularly disturbing because of how brazenly the act was committed, with citizens passing out fliers well in advance to get everyone organized. The raw obscenity of the actions perpetrated against Claude Neal and the acceptance of a town comfortable with this level of inhumanity is jaw-dropping.

Similar lines are drawn to the lynching of four men at Moore’s Ford Bridge in Georgia. Olive’s film juxtaposes the black and white imagery of the event with a modern-day re-enactment. It showcases brutality and the need to keep educating people about moments in history that most would rather forget.

“The Home Team” takes us from the rural landscapes of violent racism to the urban oppression of corporate gentrification. Atlanta, like most major American cities, is in the middle of city-wide improvements with the goal of “cleaning up” and helping bring back businesses to impacted areas. When the Atlanta Falcons were looking for a new stadium, the city spent billions of dollars to create something that would supposedly help bring jobs and money into Vine City and English Avenue; two historically black neighbor-

hoods. The painfully, ironically named Mercedes-Benz stadium ended up being anything but a touchdown for residents hoping to turn around their impoverished area. All promises made to them ended up being as empty as the crack dens and abandoned homes in the area.

Real-estate developers began buying up property and developing it into housing residents could no longer afford. It’s an all-too familiar story that has helped create an affordable housing crisis in America. While politicians and companies prosper with huge tax breaks, constituents end up getting the shaft. It’s just another example of a system that feels way too comfortable choosing profit over people.

Filmmaker Camile Pendley does a great job capturing the sense of hopelessness that exists with citizens of these once flourishing areas. What was supposed to be a new start with the stadium ultimately appears to be the final nail in the community’s coffin. The injustices showcased aren’t violent acts of rage perpetrated in “Always in Season,” but both present shades of frustration and anger with a system that seems depressingly comfortable marginalizing certain segments of our society.

There are movies folks want to see and movies they need to see. “Always in Season” manages to engage with its subject while forcing an emotional response to some grave injustices right in our own backyard. “The Home Team” manages to provide a portrait of a neighborhood the city of Atlanta has turned its back on. Both are powerful must-see documentaries.

DETAILS THE HOME TEAM Wednesday, November 13, 4:30 p.m.

Friday, November 15, 4 p.m.

Thalian Black Box, 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org/film/ the-home-team

ALWAYS IN SEASON Saturday, November 16, 4 p.m.

Thalian Main, 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org/film/ always-in-season

UPCOMING EVENTS YOGA FOR MOOD ELEVATION AND MOTIVATION

TASTE OF WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH

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STRAY LOCAL WITH XOXOK

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NOVEMBER 23, 9 P.M. • $7

DECEMBER 6, 9 P.M. • $10

DECEMBER 12, 5 P.M. • $50-$75

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POPPY, VINTAGE - INSPIRED ‘Straight Up’ is fun to look at and even better to experience, as it explores the slippery slope of sexual orientation.

Courtesy photo

INTELLECTUAL

SOULMATES

BY EMILY CAULFIELD

J

ames Sweeney’s “Straight Up” is like a Shakespearean romantic comedy where the players are in all the wrong bodies, in all the wrong drag. Todd (played

by Sweeney, who also wrote the film) suffers from OCD and a crisis of self.

He might be gay, but he’s so terrified it’s rendered him deeply clueless about himself.

Rory (Katie Findlay) is a young actor in L.A., a rising star in her own mind but struggling hard—too smart for the life she’s living. They meet cute in the self-

DETAILS STRAIGHT UP Thursday, November 14, 4:45 p.m.

Saturday, November 16, 10 a.m.

Thalian Main, 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org/film/ straight-up

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help section of the library and quickly begin to lean into each other. Their romance is charmed and there’s chemistry, but not the right kind … or is it? What is happening between them? Can we touch this, turn it over in our hands?

“Straight Up” is about intellectual soulmates and whether that connection can ever translate into lust or love. Aren’t all stories about two people ultimately always about love? Love gone good, or bad, or lost, or found?

It’s brightly lit, preciously designed: reminiscent of “Jeunet,” or Bryan Fuller’s “Pushing Daisies.” The poppy, vintage-influenced set has some of the most fabulously splashy backdrops I’ve seen in a while. From a bold, citrusy chevron rug to a huge, darkly floral mural, to a wall papered with cocktail umbrellas, “Straight Up” pays fastidious attention to detail and art-forward taste, combined with beautiful camera work and a real moody, modern pop and synth soundtrack. It consistently delivers a stunning setting for two young lost souls, reaching for each other under the Los Angeles lights.

It’s a charming, cerebral film, and everyone is so up in their own heads, they’re missing what’s in front of their own faces. Both souls are hurting, trying to heal, and they talk about it a lot.

Think vintage, talkie-inspired, with nods to the rapid-fire dialogue of “Gilmore Girls,” with dogeared Victorian novels under its bed. What I mean to say is, this is a talking film, charmed as much by the sound of its own voice as with what it’s saying—and with good reason. It’s wry, observant, raw and open; this script is as clever as it is heartfelt. It feels like a letter to the filmmaker’s younger self: “Hey there, bud, you were so sweet and so clueless once upon a time, full of fear, but I promise it does get better once you learn to love yourself.”

But Todd and Rory have to go through it. Rory seems lonely, tortured by her

‘Straight Up’ bucks Hollywood’s love-story formula with charm own demons, parallel and tangential to Todd’s questioning his sexuality. His reticence to do it works for her, as she’s privately dealing with some sort of past trauma. They need each other, but none of their friends really get it. Everyone else can see that he’s gay and she’s his beard, hiding for a whole other set of reasons. But the two people at the center of this film are utterly blind, working through each of their issues in the dark, solely by feel (and talk).

When their relationship hits a bump in the road, they just put on helmets and buckle down harder. Despite, or maybe because of, their cluelessness about themselves, we just root for them harder to figure it out. Their journey is punctuated by Todd’s bold friends’ memorable performances. Model Meg (Dana Drori) and the avant garde-y Ryder (James Scully) steal the show in their few short scenes. Their flamboyant, over-the-top flair provides a great foil for Todd and Rory’s retro values and delicate constitutions.

“Straight Up” is a tender, coming-ofage story, a really pretty, flower-filled, LA romp about sex, the need for it, the desire to forget it, the freakin’ PTSD of it all. The injured explorers must first find a partner for their expedition, a hand to hold, a mirror that reflects all the best parts about them, before they can open up their eyes and see it all for themselves.

But screw a Hollywood formula because that person doesn’t always need to be a lover or a spouse‚ especially if you don’t know yet which way you swing.

HOPES, DREAMS, JOKES Rob Huebel and Rachel Harris pull off stellar performances in ‘International Falls.’

Courtesy photo

BY EMILY CAULFIELD

“I

nternational Falls” is a woman-on-the-edge movie—you know the type (or do you?). Dee (Rachel Harris) works the front desk at a hotel and fantasizes about doing stand-up. Then, she meets Tim (Rob Huebel), a comic on the road who’s super depressed about where it’s led him. He’s doing two nights at her hotel in International Falls, Minnesota.

It’s a small town, and Dee is ordinary and unhappy, trapped in a marriage and kids she said “yes” to way too young.

Tim’s a traveling comedian who is deeply sad (duh). Neither of these ideas are new. Yet, in the hands of director Amber McGinnis, they become explosive, revelatory, a shooting-star moment.

DETAILS INTERNATIONAL FALLS Friday, November 15, 1:15 p.m.

Thalian Main, 301 Chestnut St. Saturday, November 16, 7 p.m.

Thalian Ballroom, 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org/film/ international-falls

Viewers think they’re getting served a premise of two middle-aged somebodies romcom, but when digging into this dish, having a fling or an affair, and opens up into a totally different story. It’s light and it’s apparent it’s really a survival story. dark, awkward and sexy, and then really I think we can all agree our society has grim. Something happens, an ominous dictated that it’s ludicrous for a married opportunity presents itself, and the flare woman in her 40s with two daughters, a of worry for our players is palpable. Then, job and household to secretly dream of just when it seems the moment’s passed being a comedian—and, yeah, this story and we’re calm and safe, the big reveal is framed by the notion of stand-up, but hits like a clap of thunder. it could really be any big life change. The Stylistically, “International Falls” looks most impactful thing about it is Dee’s mostly like real life, shot through with a buoyant belief that there’s still time.

She doesn’t give some scorched-earth tiny thread of Coen Brothers and a fleck speech about it, either; it’s just always of David Lynch. The careful, interesting there, shown, not told, in her even, mas- camerawork frames the world in a way terful performance. She is resilient, full that makes it change, reflect and refract. of hope, and that core, her core, is really It works wonders for our setting and really allows the actors to own the space. what this film is about.

Dee’s coworker Ruthie (Jessie SherWhen the movie opens and Dee and Tim meet, their immediate chemistry man) in particular delivers a great, heartsets the prickles going. We know she’s felt, dotty performance, and, no spoilers, unhappy. Her husband’s cheating. This but it’s always great to see comedians in guy’s from out of town. Fresh meat. A cameo.

REFLECT &

REFRACT Quiet strength of a woman shines in ‘International Falls’ stands before the empty hotel bar and its small stage, with its little microphone, she’s dressed way low-key in a Fair Isle sweater, by no means out of the ordinary in Minnesota. The classic style’s distinct knitting pattern looks like the collar of a jester’s outfit. She wants to be a joker.

Though a small detail, it’s absolutely sublime, and in a lot of ways captures the essence of this delicate, detailed film. Each element of “International Falls,” thoughtfully composed, reveals an unseen world that’s happening right in front of us.

So it gets stormy. But nothing goes where viewers expect it will, and Dee rises to the occasion. Her quiet strength— stewing, building, being tested throughout—begins to shine, and it’s so satisfying. This movie is not about another dumb dude but about a woman’s hopes, dreams and jokes.

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comedian. An opportunity. Anyone off Costumes are mostly of the pedestrian the road is hot in a small town. She’s variety, but there are moments when they definitely going to his show, and she’s sing: Ruthie’s turtleneck and vest comdefinitely going to flirt with him. bo, Dee’s dumb husband’s tight-assed Flirt they do, and the smart thing about nerd outfits, and, my favorite, the sweater this movie is it moves from the basic Dee wears in the opening scene. As she encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 27

MISCARRIAGE OF JUSTICE Robert Bellamy plays Delbert Tibbs, a black man wrongfully covicted of rape, in ‘The Exonerated.’

Photo by James Bowling

SLOW-BURNING

BY EMILY CAULFIELD

D

ark and absurd, Austin filmmaker Steve Collins’ “I’ve Got Issues” is a dreamy, dreary meditation on daily despair, engaging all our senses—especially our sense of humor. Pushing every joke to its extreme, like a dark comedy sketch gone arthouse, the storyline is told in a series of titled chapters, vignettes narrated by comedian Jim Gaffigan. It features an indie all-star ensemble, playing different characters throughout the film, which results in a set of tales loosely linked by tone and concept, slowly orbiting around and toward a shared climax.

The movie’s moody lyricism and twisted

sense of humor benefit hugely from beautiful, thoughtful production design: The sets are visually layered in color and shape, the frame sparse but loaded with meaning and emotion. Its minimalism pays off gorgeously for the story, giving each joke the space to land and move around, and morph into something edifying or deeply unsettling. The cinematography is also tied in just as tightly with the humor of the film: long shots, off-kilter angles, low cameras. Each intelligent detail is thick with an edgy, creeping sense we are in a world that is slightly off the rails.

The performances here, always boosted by anachronistic Midwestern wardrobe,

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DETAILS I’VE GOT ISSUES Thursday, November 14, 1 p.m.

Saturday, November 16, 1 p.m.

Thalian Main, 301 Chestnut St. Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org/film/ ive-got-issues

are spectacularly understated, often warm and gentle and oddly delivered. They are can’t-take-your-eyes-off-it good because everyone is making stylistic choices that are bizarre. Viewers will not want to miss a move from anyone. It’s nonstop: I’ve watched the film three times now and I’m still catching lines and visuals. So much eye candy is in this sparse but sumptuous set and it offers great visual puns. It’s a space for these performances to expand, blossom and curdle. Collins rounded up his favorite players from films like “Gretchen” and “You Hurt My Feelings,” including but not limited to the great Paul Gordon, Claire Titelman, Courtney Davis, and John Merriman. They’re each a wonder at sloshing through changing tides of emotionality, extremism, absurdity and the all mighty joke.

From stories about the end of the world, to pet deaths and suicide, this slow-burning film leans into surrealism in style, tone, and texture. Some jokes are played out until they’re absolutely grating on the viewer’s nerves, as viewers await the punchline, the sweet release. In the case of “I’ve Got Issues,” that release is often death.

For world There is—as

all the grim pain and end-of-theimplosions, it’s not a sad movie. is absolute humanity in it, which we all know—intrinsically linked

SURREALISM Austin filmmaker Steve Collins’ vignettes are bizarre in a good way with hope. The best moments in the film are shared pain, the connection that flows in the veins beneath the skin. In “I’ve Got Issues,” that means being absolutely tortured.

In “Please Help Griselda,” a woman shows up at another’s door, mute, her face screwed into an expression of wild discomfort. We don’t know what’s happening and neither does our friend who opens the door, but she sees her anguish and begins to ask a series of questions: “Can I help you with something? Do you need help?

Have you been in some sort of accident?

Are you disoriented? Have you lost someone recently? Someone close to you? Are you lonely?”

She goes on, gently asking question after question without an answer, and it becomes apparent everyone needs to be asked these questions every day. Everyday people and pets and landlords and ex-lovers are dying; the ocean’s polluted; we can’t pay our student loans. The list of secret pains goes on and on, ad infinitum, for us all.

The woman’s distorted face becomes a blank canvas for the chaos that everyone is facing, delivered in odd tones on shifting sands, this film’s ultimate joke building, sounding something like, “Well, we’re all effed but at least we’re effed together,” best expressed in the movie’s last line.

Each character walks toward a mushroom cloud of fire and smoke in the distance. “It is not all darkness. And you are not alone.

Reach toward the light.”

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buzzedbullcreamery.com encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 29

NO PEEKING The Swedish psychological horror film “Koko-di Koko-da,” the Cold War techno-fantasy “Jesus Shows You the Way to the Highway” (below) and the Brazilian neo-western “Bacarau” (bottom right) are part of the Convulsions late-night programming.

Courtesy photos

EXTREME

BY JEFF OLOIZIA

R

owdy audiences are welcome to the risqué cinema block, Convulsions, during Cucalorus 25. Originally termed “Midnight Madness” before making the switch to Convulsions in 2014, the block is the brainchild of film consultant Aaron Hillis. The 13-year Cucalorus veteran and board member lives in Brooklyn and spends much of the year traveling to film festivals worldwide, scouting movies to bring to Wilmington every November. He says in order for a film to be considered for Convulsions, it must contain two of the following three components: sex, horror and bizarre thrills.

“There are definitely films that are not horror, and there are definitely films that aren’t sexual or erotic,” Hillis says. “But as long as they fit two of those three categories, they tend to play well against one another.”

Since its inception, Cucalorus’ latenight program has earned a reputation for being ahead of the curve. In 2009, it hosted the U.S. premiere of the Greek drama “Dogtooth”—hailed as “perhaps the most outré film ever nominated for a Best Foreign Language Oscar” by Film at Lincoln Center. In 2013, it played host to the Southern U.S. premiere of Jeremy Saulnier’s “Blue Ruin,” which won the Cannes Film Festival’s FIPRESCI Prize.

This year’s entries boast similarly impressive pedigrees: “Koko-Di Koko-Da,” about a couple who get caught in an endless cycle of grief while camping in the wilderness, played in competition at Sundance. Both “Sick, Sick, Sick” and “Bacarau” screened at Cannes (the latter won the festival’s Jury Prize).

There’s also the matter of placement.

Cucalorus organizers felt so confident about Miguel Llanso’s “Jesus Shows You the Way to the Highway” that it was selected for a prime spot on opening night, Wednesday, November 13.

lineup.

CONTENT

DETAILS

Hillis points to 2018’s “Lords of Chaos” as an example of a film that defies the Convulsions blueprint. “It’s not really a horror movie; it’s a drama, and it’s a biopic about Mayhem, a very prominent Norwegian black metal band,” he says.

CONVULSIONS BLOCK

Still, things can get a bit squeamish. At the Cucalorus screening of “Lords...” during a scene in which vocalist Pelle “Dead” Ohlin cuts himself onstage, a filmmaker in the audience passed out and knocked out a tooth on the seat in front of him.

this psychologically suspenseful, viciously funny Swedish fever dream, about a couple tormented over and over by the strangest crew of villains you’ll ever see in a movie.”

“[Afterward], I texted a friend of mine at the distribution company and said, ‘Hey, he’s OK. It’s only free publicity for you now,’” Hillis says with a laugh.

“Sick, Sick, Sick” Fri., Nov. 15, 10 p.m.

Runtime: 1 hr 44 mins

Below he offers tweet-length previews of each of the 2019 films:

“It’s your typical teenage love story: girl meets boy, girl loses boy to hemophilia, girl tries witchcraft and voodoo to resurrect boy. An intense, hypnotic nightmare about obsessive romance, this sensual Brazilian drama is like ‘Pet Sematary’ for fans of arthouse cinema.”

November 13 - 16, start times vary Thalian Black Box, 310 Chestnut St. All films 18+ Tickets: $15 • cucalorus.org “I think it is one of those films that really is for a Cucalorian audience,” Hillis says.

“It’s not just the after-hours sect—it’s a truly bonkers discovery I think people are going to dig.”

Building the selections can be a challenge. Despite the obvious appeal of explicit material, Hillis says, it’s easy to take things too far: “Programming is a deeply imperfect science, and it’s not just about what’s good but also that negotiation between what you think your audiences are going to like, how far can you push [them] to experience something they haven’t experienced before, and what’s going to meet the tone and the feel of the Cucalorus identity.”

No doubt entries push boundaries.

“Koko-Di Koko-Da,” for example, features a sequence in which one of the nursery-ryhme antagonists sings gleefully as his bloodthirsty dog torments hapless campers. However, those wanting to dismiss the films as mere exploitation would be mistaken.

Hillis is an industry veteran whose taste ranges from Jacques Tati’s “Playtime” to Wim Wender’s 1987 romantic fantasy “Wings of Desire” to “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.” Such diversity is reflected in the

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“Jesus Shows You the Way to the Highway” Wed., Nov. 13, 9:30 p.m.

Runtime: 1 hr 22 mins “‘Cucalorus’ kicks off opening night with this outrageous and perverse Cold War techno-fantasy, in which a tiny special agent must fight a Soviet cyber virus in a virtual-reality hellscape that’s part ‘The Matrix,’ part Filipino exploitation cinema, part ‘60s European spy movie.”

“Koko-Di Koko-Da” Thurs., Nov. 14, 10:15 p.m.

Runtime: 1 hr 26 mins “‘Groundhog Day’ meets ‘The Babadook’ (or maybe ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’?) in

Cucalorus’ late-night ‘Convulsions’ program offers adults-only thrills

“Bacarau” Sat., Nov. 16, 10 p.m.

Runtime: 2 hrs 12 mins

“Get your buttons pushed with this politically satirical, violent and mysterious neo-western (with a touch of horror and sci-fi) from Brazil, in which a village must rebel against foreign tourists who are armed to the teeth with hi-tech weapons.

My personal favorite of this year’s ‘Convulsions’ gems.”

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DINING

GUIDE

Cape Fear S eafoo d Com pany 3 locatio ns • ww w.cape fearsea foodco mpany.c om • Ph o

AMERICAN

BLUEWATER WATERFRONT GRILL

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of sailing ships and the Intracoastal Waterway while dining at this popular casual American restaurant in Wrightsville Beach. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Favorites include jumbo lump crab cakes, succulent seafood lasagna, crispy coconut shrimp and an incredible Caribbean fudge pie. Dine inside or at their award-winning outdoor patio and bar, which is the location for their lively Waterfront Music Series every Sunday April - October. Large parties welcome.

Private event space available. BluewaterDining. com. 4 Marina Street, Wrightsville Beach, NC. (910) 256-8500.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon-Fri 11a.m.

- 11 p.m.; Sat & Sun 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Waterfront dining ■ MUSIC: Music every Sunday in Summer ■ WEBSITE: bluewaterdining.com

CAM CAFÉ

CAM Café, located within the CAM delivers delightful surprises using fresh, local ingredients. The café serves lunch with seasonal options Tuesday through Saturday, inspired “small plates” on Thursday nights, an elegant yet approachable dinner on Thursday and brunch every Sunday. Look for a combination of fresh, regular menu items along with daily specials. As part of dining in an inspiring set-

ting, the galleries are open during CAM Café hours which makes it the perfect destination to enjoy art of the plate along with the art of the museum.

3201 S 17th St. (910) 777-2363.

■ SERVING LUNCH, BRUNCH & DINNER: Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 2 pm; Thursday evening, 5pm-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: camcafe.org

ELIJAH’S

Since 1984, Elijah’s has been Wilmington, NC’s outdoor dining destination. We feature expansive indoor and outdoor waterfront dining, with panoramic views of riverfront sunsets. As a Casual American Grill and Oyster Bar, Elijah’s offers everything from fresh local seafood and shellfish to pastas, sandwiches, and Certified Angus Beef selections. We offer half-priced oysters from 4-6 every Wednesday & live music with our Sunday Brunch from 11-3. Whether you are just looking for a great meal & incredible scenery, or a large event space for hundreds of people, Elijah’s is the place to be.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11:30-10:00; Friday and Saturday 11:30-11:00 ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ILM; kids menu

HENRY’S

36 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

to by Lin dsey A. Miller P hotogrp ahy

A local favorite, Henry’s is the ‘place to be’ for great food, a lively bar and awesome patio dining.

Henry’s serves up American cuisine at its finest that include entrees with fresh, local ingredients.

Come early for lunch, because it’s going to be packed. Dinner too! Henry’s Pine Room is ideal for private functions up to 30 people. 2508 Independence Boulevard, Wilmington, NC. (910) 793.2929.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. - Mon. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Tues.- Fri.: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Sat.: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Daily blackboard specials.

■ WEBSITE: henrysrestaurant.com

NICHE

Niche Kitchen and Bar features an eclectic menu, a large wine list, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. Close to Carolina Beach, Niche has a great selection of dishes from land to sea. All dishes are cooked to order, and Sundays features a great brunch menu!

Niche’s heated covered patio is perfect for anytime of the year and great for large parties. And their bar has a great assortment of wines, even offered half off by the glass on Tuesdays-Thursdays.

Open Tues. - Sun. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling 910399-4701.

■ OPEN LUNCH AND DINNER: Tues.-Sun., 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ WEBSITE: nichewilmington.com

PINE VALLEY MARKET

Pine Valley Market has reigned supreme in servicing the Wilmington community for years, securing encore’s Best-Of awards in catering, gourmet shop and butcher. Now, Kathy Webb and Christi Ferretti are expanding their talents into serving lunch in-house, so folks can enjoy their hearty, homemade meals in the quaint and cozy ambiance of the market. Using the freshest ingredients of highest quality, diners can enjoy the best Philly Cheesesteak in Wilmington, along with numerous other sandwich varieties, from their Angus burger to classic Reuben, Italian sub to a grown-up banana and peanut butter sandwich that will take all diners back to childhood.

Served among a soup du jour and salads, there is

something for all palates. Take advantage of their take-home frozen meals for nights that are too hectic to cook, and don’t forget to pick up a great bottle of wine to go with it. 3520 S. College Road, (910) 350-FOOD. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sun. ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Daily specials and take-home frozen meals ■ WEBSITE: pinevalleymarket.com

THE TROLLY STOP

Trolly Stop Grill and Catering is a four store franchise in North Carolina. Trolly Stop Hot Dogs opened in Wrightsville Beach in 1976. That store name has never changed. Since the Wrightsville Beach store, the newer stores sell hotdogs, hamburgers, beef and chicken cheese steaks, fries, hand dipped ice cream, milk shakes, floats and more.

Our types of dogs are: Southern (Trolly Dog, beef and pork), Northern (all beef), Smoke Sausage (pork), Fat Free (turkey), Veggie (soy). Voted Best Hot Dog in Wilmington for decades.

Check our website trollystophotdogs.com for hours of operations, specific store offerings and telephone numbers, or contact Rick Coombs, 910297-8416, rtrollystop@aol.com We offer catering serving 25-1000 people. Franchises available.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ LOCATIONS: Wilmington, Fountain Dr. (910) 452-3952, Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-3921, Southport (910) 457-7017, Boone, NC (828) 2652658, Chapel Hill, NC (919) 240-4206 ■ WEBSITE: trollystophotdogs.com

ASIAN INDOCHINE RESTAURANT

If you’re ready to experience the wonders of the Orient without having to leave Wilmington, join us at Indochine for a truly unique experience. Indochine brings the flavors of the Far East to the Port City, combining the best of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine in an atmosphere that will transport you and your taste buds. Relax in our elegantly decorated dining room, complete with antique Asian decor as well as contemporary artwork and music. Our diverse, friendly and efficient staff will serve you beautifully presented dishes full of enticing aromas and flavors.

Be sure to try such signature items as the spicy and savory Roasted Duck with Red Curry, or the beautifully presented and delicious Shrimp and Scallops in a Nest. Be sure to save room for our world famous desert, the banana egg roll! We take pride in using only the freshest ingredients, and our extensive menu suits any taste. After dinner, enjoy specialty drinks by the koi pond in our Asian garden. Located at 7 Wayne Drive (beside the Ivy Cottage), (910) 251-9229.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Tues.- Fri. 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.; Sat. 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. for lunch. Mon.Sun. 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. for dinner.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: indochinewilmington.com

NIKKI’S FRESH GOURMET

For more than a decade, Nikki’s downtown has served diners the best in sushi. With freshly crafted ingredients making up their rolls, sushi and sashimi, a taste of innovation comes with every order. Daily they offer specialty rolls specific to the Front Street location, such as the My Yoshi, K-Town and Crunchy

Eel rolls. But for less adventurous diners looking for options beyond sushi, Nikki’s serves an array of sandwiches, wraps and gyros, too. They also make it a point to host all dietary needs, omnivores, carnivores and herbivores alike. They have burgers and cheesesteaks, as well as falafal pitas and veggie wraps, as well as an extensive Japanese fare menu, such as bento boxes and tempura platters.

Daily dessert and drink special are also on order.

Check out their website and Facebook for more information. 16 S. Front St. (910) 771-9151.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am 10pm; Fri.-Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 12pm10pm. Last call on food 15 minutes before closing.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: nikkissushibar.com

OKAMI JAPANESE HIBACHI STEAK HOUSE

We have reinvented “Hibachi cuisine.” Okami Japanese Hibachi Steakhouse is like no other.

Our highly skilled chefs cook an incredible dinner while entertaining you on the way. Our portions are large, our drinks are less expensive, and our staff is loads of fun. We are committed to using quality ingredients and seasoning with guaranteed freshness. Our goal is to utilize all resources, domestically and internationally, to ensure we serve only the finest food products. We believe good, healthy food aids vital functions for well-being, both physically and mentally. Our menu consists of a wide range of steak, seafood, and chicken for the specially designed “Teppan Grill.” We also serve tastebud-tingling Japanese sushi, hand rolls, sashimi, tempura dishes, and noodle entrees. This offers our guests a complete Japanese dining experience. Our all-you-can-eat sushie menu and daily specials can be found at okamisteakhouse.com! 614 S College Rd.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Mon.-Thurs., 11am 2:30pm / 4-10pm; Fri., 11am-2:30pm / 4pm-11pm; Sat., 11am-11pm; Sun., 11am9:30pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: okamisteakhouse.com

SZECHUAN 132

Craving expertly prepared Chinese food in an elegant atmosphere? Szechuan 132 Chinese Restaurant is your destination! Szechuan 132 has earned the reputation as one of the finest contemporary Chinese restaurants in the Port City. Tastefully decorated with an elegant atmosphere, with an exceptional ingenious menu has deemed Szechuan 132 the best Chinese restaurant for years, hands down. 419 South College Road (in University Landing), (910) 799-1426.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Lunch specials ■ WEBSITE: szechuan132.com

YOSAKE DOWNTOWN SUSHI LOUNGE

Lively atmosphere in a modern setting, Yosake is the delicious Downtown spot for date night, socializing with friends, or any large dinner party. Home to the never-disappointing Shanghai Firecracker Shrimp! In addition to sushi, we offer a full Pan Asian menu including curries, noodle dishes, and the ever-popular Crispy Salmon or mouth-watering Kobe Burger. Inspired features change weekly showcasing our commitment to local farms. Full bar including a comprehensive sake list, signature cocktails, and Asian Import Bottles. 33 S. Front St., 2nd Floor (910) 763-3172.

■ SERVING DINNER: 7 nights a week, 5pm; Sun-Wed. ‘til 10pm, Thurs ‘til 11pm, Fri-Sat, ‘til

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everything they do. 8211 Market St. (910) 686-7774

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun brunch, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck ■ WEBSITE: italianbistronc.com

SLICE OF LIFE

Zocalo St reet Food and Tequ ila 1474 Ba rclay Pointe Blvd • www Midnight. .zocalostree tfood.com • ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown Courtes ■ FEATURING: 1/2 Price Sushi/Appetizer Menu

nightly from 5-7, until 8 on Mondays, and also 10-Midnight on Fri/Sat. Tuesday LOCALS NIGHT20% Dinner Entrees. Wednesday 80S NIGHT 80smusic and menu prices. Sundays are the best dealdowntown - Specialty Sushi and Entrees are BuyOne, Get One $10 Off and 1/2 price Wine Bottles.

Nightly Drink Specials. Gluten-Free Menu upon request. Complimentary Birthday Dessert.

■ WEBSITE: yosake.com. @yosakeilm on Twitter & Instagram. Like us on Facebook.

YOSHI

Yoshi Sushi Bar and Japanese Cuisine offers something the greater Wilmington area has never seen before. We are seeking to bring true New York Style Sushi to Wilmington, with classic sushi and sashimi, as well as traditional rolls and some unique Yoshi Creations. We offer a variety of items, including Poke Bowls and Hibachi - and we also are introducing true Japanese Ramen Bowls! Come try it today! 260 Racine Dr, Wilmington 28403 (910)7996799 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun. 12pm-11pm, Mon.-Thurs. 11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-11pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ WEBSITE: www.yoshisushibarandjapanesecuisine.com

BAGELS ROUND BAGELS

Round Bagels and Donuts features 17 varieties of New York-style bagels, baked fresh daily on site in a steam bagel oven. Round offers a wide variety of breakfast and lunch bagel sandwiches, grilled and fresh to order. Round also offers fresh-made donuts daily! Stop by Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., and on Sunday, 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

■ SERVING BREAKFAST & LUNCH ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Homemade bagels, cream chees-

es, donuts, sandwiches, coffee and more ■ WEBSITE: roundbagelsanddonuts.com

FONDUE Wilmington’s favorite fondue restaurant! The Little Dipper specializes in unique fondue dishes with a global variety of cheeses, meats, seafood, vegetables, chocolates and fine wines. The warm and intimate dining room is a great place to enjoy a four-

y photo

course meal, or indulge in appetizers and desserts outside on the back deck or in the bar while watching luminescent jellyfish. Reservations are appreciated for parties of any size. Located at the corner of Front and Orange in Downtown Wilmington. 138 South Front Street. (910) 251-0433.

■ SERVING DINNER: 5pm Tue-Sun; open daily from Memorial Day through October ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING Sunday half-price wine bottles; Monday beer and wine flights on special; Tuesday Local’s Night $11/person cheese and chocolate; Wednesday Ladies Night; Thursday $27 4-course prix fixe; Friday “Date Night” $85/couple for 3 courses and a bottle of wine.

■ MUSIC: Tuesdays & Thursdays, May-Oct., 7– 9 p.m. (weather permitting) ■ WEBSITE: www.littledipperfondue.com

on draft, and 40 different craft beers in bottles. They have a large well lit outdoor patio with a full bar also.

Come have some fun! They currently do not take reservations, but promise to take care of you when you get here! 5607 Carolina Beach Rd. #100, (910) 399-3980 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 11:30 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: South Wilmington, Monkey Junction ■ FEATURING: Irish grub, whiskeys, beer, wine, fun.

■ WEBSITE: facebook.com/slaintemj

IRISH

ANTONIO’S

THE HARP

Experience the finest traditional Irish family recipes and popular favorites served in a casual yet elegant traditional pub atmosphere. The Harp, 1423 S. 3rd St., proudly uses the freshest ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible, to bring you and yours the most delicious Irish fare! We have a fully stocked bar featuring favorite Irish beers and whiskies. We are open every day for both American and Irish breakfast, served to noon weekdays and 2 p.m. weekends. Regular menu to 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. weekends. Join us for trivia at 8:30 on Thursdays and live music on Fridays – call ahead for schedule (910) 763-1607. Located just beside Greenfield Lake and Park at the south end of downtown Wilmington, The Harp is a lovely Irish pub committed to bringing traditional Irish flavor, tradition and hospitality to the Cape Fear area ■ SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Greenfield Lake/DowntownSouth ■ FEATURING: Homemade soups, desserts and breads, free open wifi, new enlarged patio area, and big screen TVs at the bar featuring major soccer matches worldwide.

■ WEBSITE: harpwilmington.com

SLAINTE IRISH PUB

Slainte Irish Pub in Monkey Junction has traditional pub fare with an Irish flair. We have a large selection of Irish whiskey, and over 23 different beers

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ITALIAN Serving fresh, homemade Italian fare in midtown and south Wilmington, Antonio’s Pizza and Pasta is a family-owned restaurant which serves New York style pizza and pasta. From daily specials during lunch and dinner to a friendly waitstaff ensuring a top-notch experience, whether dining in, taking out or getting delivery, to generous portions, the Antonio’s experience is an unforgettable one. Serving subs, salads, pizza by the slice or pie, pasta, and more, dine-in, take-out and delivery! 3501 Oleander Dr., #2, and 5120 S. College Rd. ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun., open at 11:30 a.m.)

■ NEIGHBORHOOD DELIVERY OFFERED: Monkey Junction and near Independence Mall ■ WEBSITE: antoniospizzaandpasta.com

THE ITALIAN BISTRO

The Italian Bistro is a family-owned, full-service Italian restaurant and pizzeria located in Porters Neck. They offer a wide variety of N.Y. style thincrust pizza and homemade Italian dishes seven days a week!

The Italian Bistro strives to bring customers a variety of homemade items made with the freshest, local ingredients. Every pizza and entrée is made to order and served with a smile from our amazing staff.

Their warm, inviting, atmosphere is perfect for “date night” or “family night.” Let them show you why “fresh, homemade and local” is part of

“Slice” has become a home away from home for tourists and locals alike. Our menu includes salads, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, homemade soups, subs and, of course, pizza. We only serve the freshest and highest-quality ingredients in all of our food, and our dough is made daily with purified water. Voted “Best Pizza” and “Best Late Night Eatery.”All ABC permits. Visit us downtown at 125 Market Street, (910) 251-9444, in Wrightsville Beach at 1437 Military Cutoff Road, Suite 101, (910) 2562229 and in Pine Valley on the corner of 17th and College Road, (910) 799-1399.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: 11:30 a.m.-3 a.m., 7 days/week, 365 days/year.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, Downtown and Wilmington South.

■ FEATURING: Largest tequila selection in town!

■ WEBSITE: grabslice.com

MEXICAN ZOCALO

Zocalo Street Food and Tequila brings a modern version of cooking traditional Mexican street food through perfected recipes, with excellent presentation. Zócalo was the main ceremonial center for the Aztecs, and presently, it is the main square in central Mexico City. It bridges old school tradition with a twist of innovative cooking. Zocalo also has weekly events, such as their margarita and food tasting every Monday, 5-8 p.m., and a live taco station every Tuesday , 5-8 p.m. Live Latin music Is showcased every other Saturday and Sunday brunch begins at 10 a.m. Be sure to try Zocalo’s wide selection of the best tequilas! Owned and operated locally, locations are in Wilmington and Jacksonville, NC. Take out and delivery available through most apps.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER AND BRUNCH: Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m - 10 p.m.; Sunday brunch, 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.; closes 9 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Pointe at Barclay ■ WEBSITE: zocalostreetfood.com

SANDWICHES J. MICHAEL’S PHILLY DELI

The Philly Deli celebrated their 38th anniversary in August 2017. Thier first store was located in Hanover Center—the oldest shopping center in Wilmington. Since, two more Philly Delis have been added: one at Porters Neck and one at Monkey Junction.

The Philly Deli started out by importing all of their steak meat and hoagie rolls straight from Amoroso Baking Company, located on 55th Street in downtown Philadelphia! It’s a practice they maintain to this day.

We also have a great collection of salads to choose from, including the classic chef’s salad, chicken salad, and tuna salad, all made fresh every day in our three Wilmington, NC restaurants. 8232 Market St., 3501 Oleander Dr., 609 Piner Rd.

■ OPEN: 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday -Thursday,11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday - Saturday.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Porters Neck, North and South Wilmington,

■ WEBSITE: https://phillydeli.com

BITES

SEAFOOD CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY

Founded in 2008 by Evans and Nikki Trawick, Cape Fear Seafood Company has become a local hotspot for the freshest, tastiest seafood in the area. With it’s growing popularity, the restaurant has expanded from its flagship eatery in Monkey Junction to locations in Porters Neck and Waterford in Leland. “We are a dedicated group of individuals working together as a team to serve spectacular food, wine and spirits in a relaxed and casual setting,” restaurateur Evans Trawick says. “At CFSC every dish is prepared with attention to detail, quality ingredients and excellent flavors. Our staff strives to accommodate guests with a sense of urgency and an abundance of southern hospitality.” Cape Fear Seafood Company has been recognized by encore magazine for best seafood in 2015, as well as by Wilmington Magazine in 2015 and 2016, and Star News from 2013 through 2016. Monkey Junction: 5226 S. College Road Suite 5, 910-799-7077.

Porter’s Neck: 140 Hays Lane #140, 910-681-1140.

Waterford: 143 Poole Rd., Leland, NC 28451 ■ SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER: 11:30am-4pm daily; Mon.-Thurs.., 4pm-9pm; Fri.-Sat., 4pm 10pm; Sun., 4pm-8:30pm.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown, north Wilmington and Leland ■ WESBITE: capefearseafoodcompany.com

CATCH

Serving the Best Seafood in South Eastern North Carolina. Wilmington’s Native Son, 2011 James Beard Award Nominee, 2013 Best of Wilmington “Best Chef” winner, Chef Keith Rhodes explores the Cape Fear Coast for the best it has to offer. We feature Wild Caught & Sustainably raised Seafood. Organic and locally sourced produce & herbs provide the perfect compliment to our fresh Catch. Consecutively Voted Wilmington’s Best Chef 2008, 09 & 2010. Dubbed “Modern Seafood Cuisine” we offer an array Fresh Seafood & Steaks, including our Signature NC Sweet Potato Salad. Appetizers include our Mouth watering “Fire Cracker” Shrimp, Crispy Cajun Fried NC Oysters & Blue Crab Claw Scampi, & Seafood Ceviche to name a few. Larger Plates include, Charleston Crab Cakes, Flounder Escovitch & Miso Salmon. Custom Entree request gladly accommodated for our Guest. (Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergies) Hand-crafted seasonal desserts. Full ABC Permits. 6623 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28405, 910-799-3847.

■ SERVING DINNER: Mon.-Sat. 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: North Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Acclaimed Wine List ■ WEBSITE: catchwilmington.com

DOCK STREET OYSTER BAR

Voted Best Oysters for over 10 years by encore readers, you know what you can find at Dock Street Oyster Bar. But we have a lot more than oysters!

Featuring a full menu of seafood, pasta, and chicken dishes from $4.95-$25.95, there’s something for everyone at Dock Street. You’ll have a great time eating in our “Bohemian-Chic” atmosphere, where you’ll feel just as comfort able in flip flops as you would in a business suit. Located at 12 Dock St in downtown Wilmington. Open lunch and dinner, 7 days a week. (910) 762-2827.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days a week.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ FEATURING: Fresh daily steamed oysters.

■ WEBSITE: dockstreetoysterbar.net

TASTE OF WB BEACH November 16, 5 p.m.

The Taste of Wrightsville Beach festival celebrates the island’s diverse and delicious fare on and around the beach with over 35 food, wine and beer tasting booths under a huge tent. Celebrity judges will rate the dishes with a “Best in Show” while the public will select the “People’s Choice” award.

Tickets $25-$75: 910tix.com/events/ Coastal-KIA-presents-Taste-ofWrightsville-Beach-11-16-2019

MICHAEL’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Established in 1998, Michael’s Seafood Restaurant is locally owned and operated by Shelly McGowan and managed by her team of culinary professionals. Michael’s aspires to bring you the highest quality and freshest fin fish, shell fish, mollusks, beef, pork, poultry and produce. Our menu consists of mainly locally grown and made from scratch items. We count on our local fishermen and farmers to supply us with seasonal, North Carolina favorites on a daily basis. Adorned walls include awards such as 3 time gold medalist at the International Seafood Chowder Cook-Off, Entrepreneur of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and Encores readers’ choice in Best Seafood to name a few. 1206 N. Lake Park Blvd. (910) 458-7761 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: 7 days 11 am – 9 pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach ■ FEATURING: Award-winning chowder, local se food and more!

■ WEBSITE: MikesCfood.com

OCEANIC

Voted best seafood restaurant in Wilmington, Oceanic provides oceanfront dining at its best.

Located in Wrightsville Beach, Oceanic is one of the most visited restaurants on the beach. Choose from a selection of seafood platters, combination plates and daily fresh fish. For land lovers, try their steaks, chicken or pasta dishes. Relax on the pier or dine inside. Oceanic is also the perfect location for memorable events, such as wedding ceremonies & receptions, birthday gatherings, anniversary parties and more. Large groups welcome. Private event space available. 703 S. Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach. (910) 256.5551.

■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & SUNDAY BRUNCH: Mon – Sat 11am – 11pm, Sunday 10am – 10pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Wrightsville Beach ■ FEATURING: Dine on renovated Crystal Pier.

■ WEBSITE: OceanicRestaurant.com

THE PILOT HOUSE

The Pilot House Restaurant is Wilmington’s premier seafood and steak house with a touch of the South. We specialize in local seafood and produce.

Featuring the only Downtown bar that faces the river and opening our doors in 1978, The Pilot House is the oldest restaurant in the Downtown area. We offer stunning riverfront views in a newly-renovated relaxed, casual setting inside or on one of our two outdoor decks. Join us for $5.00 select appetizers Sunday-Thursday and live music every Friday and Saturday nigh on our umbrella deck. Large parties welcome. Private event space available. 910-3430200. 2 Ann Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 ■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Sun-Thurs 11am9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm and Sunday Brunch,.

11am-3pm. Kids menu ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Riverfront Downtown Wilmington ■ FEATURING: Fresh local seafood specialties, Riverfront Dining, free on-site parking ■ MUSIC: Outside Every Friday and Saturday ■ WEBSITE: pilothouserest.com

SHUCKIN’ SHACK

Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar has two locations in the Port City area. The original Shack is located in Carolina Beach at 6A N. Lake Park Blvd. (910-4587380) and our second location is at 109 Market Street in Historic Downtown Wilmington (910-8338622). The Shack is the place you want to be to catch your favorite sports team on 7 TV’s carrying all major sports packages. A variety of fresh seafood is available daily including oysters, shrimp, clams, mussels, and crab legs. Shuckin’ Shack has expanded its menu now offering fish tacos, crab cake sliders, fried oyster po-boys, fresh salads, and more.

Come in and check out the Shack’s daily lunch, dinner, and drink specials. It’s a Good Shuckin’ Time!

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Carolina Beach Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-2am; Sun: Noon-2am, Historic Wilmington: Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm; FriSat:11am-Midnight.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Carolina Beach/Downtown ■ FEATURING: Daily lunch specials. Like us on Facebook!

■ WEBSITE: TheShuckinShack.com

SOUTHERN CASEY’S BUFFET

In Wilmington, everyone knows where to go for solid country cooking. That place is Casey’s Buffet, winner of encore’s Best Country Cookin’/Soul Food and Buffet categories. “Every day we are open, somebody tells us it tastes just like their grandma’s or mama’s cooking,” co-owner Gena Casey says.

Gena and her husband Larry run the show at the Oleander Drive restaurant where people are urged to enjoy all food indigenous to the South: fried chicken, barbecue, catfish, mac‘n’cheese, mashed potatoes, green beans, chicken‘n’dumplings, biscuits and homemade banana puddin’ are among a few of many other delectable items. 5559 Oleander Drive.

(910) 798-2913.

■ SERVING LUNCH & DINNER: Open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Mon. & Tues.

■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown ■ FEATURING: Pig’s feet and chitterlings.

■ WEBSITE: caseysbuffet.com

RX RESTAURANT & BAR

Located in downtown Wilmington, Rx Restaurant and Bar is here to feed your soul, serving up Southern cuisine made with ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. The Rx chef is committed to bringing fresh food to your table, so the menu changes daily based on what he finds locally. Rx drinks are as unique as the food—and just what the doctor

ordered. Join us for a dining experience you will never forget! 421 Castle St.; 910 399-3080.

■ SERVING BRUNCH & DINNER: Tues-Thurs, 5-10pm; Fri-Sat, 5-10:30pm; Sun., 10am-3pm and 5-9pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ■ WEBSITE: rxwilmington.com

SPORTS BAR CAROLINA ALE HOUSE

Voted best new restaurant AND best sports bar of 2010 in Wilmington, Carolina Ale House is the place to be for award-winning food, sports and fun. Located on College Rd. near UNC W, this lively sports-themed restaurant. Covered and open outdoor seating is available. Lunch and dinner specials are offered daily, as well as the coldest $2 and $3 drafts in town. 317 S. College Rd. (910) 791.9393.

SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NIGHT: 11am-2am daily.

NEIGHBORHOOD: Midtown FEATURING: 40 HD TVs and the biggest HD projector TVs in Wilmington.

WEBSITE: CarolinaAleHouse.com

STEAKS TRUE BLUE BUTCHER & TABLE

True Blue Butcher & Table opened in the Forum Shopping Center in January 2018 at the point, 1125-AA Military Cutoff Rd. as Wilmington’s finest neighborhood butcher shop and restaurant.

A menu of globally-inspired, local ingredients is served during lunch, dinner and weekend brunches. But the real experience is visiting the butcher counter to take home the best cuts of meat in Wilmington (and the world), while also given expert cooking and food advice from the chef/owner himself, Bobby Zimmerman. True Blue has a magnificent bar, handcrafted cocktail menu and bar menu and offers weekday specials. (910) 679-4473 ■ SERVING LUNCH, DINNER & WEEKEND BRUNCH: Lunch Tues.-Fri., 11am-2pm; Dinner, Tues.-Sun., 5-10pm; Brunch, Sat.-Sun., 10:30am2:30pm; Butcher counter Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm ■ NEIGHBORHOOD: The Forum off of Military Cutoff Road ■ FEATURES: Wed. Burger Night, Thurs.

1/2-priced wine bottle & prime steak upgrades; Friday 1/2-priced bar menu ■ WEBSITE/SOCIALS: wearetrueblue.com. IG: @truebluebutcherandtable. FB: facebook.com/ TrueBlueButcherAndTable

TAPAS/WINE BAR THE FORTUNATE GLASS WINE BAR

Under new ownership! Tom Noonan invites you to enjoy his remodeled space, featuring a new sound system and new bar, in a warm, relaxed environment. Taste 40 craft beers, over 400 wines by the bottle, a wide selection of cheese and charcuterie, with gourmet small plates and desserts to go! And don’t miss their weekly wine tastings, every Tuesday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

SERVING DINNER & LATE NIGHT: Mon., Closed; Tues.-Thurs., 4 p.m. - 12 a.m.; Fri., 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. - 2 a.m.; Sun., 4 - 10 p.m.

NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown, 29 S Front St. WEBSITE: fortunateglass.com

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The number one reason you need a butcher in your life...

Decadence

1125-A Military Cuttoff RD. WIlmington, NC 28405 l 910-679-4473 l wearetrueblue.com 40 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

TURN UP THE HEAT The Filmmaker Cocktail Competition takes place in the backyard of Jengo’s Playhouse on Friday night!

Photo by Viet Nguyen

TALKIN’

BY JOAN C.W. HOFFMANN

D the last 24.

an Brawley and his excellent team are cruising into the 25th year of Cucalorus and promise it will be more dynamic and exciting than

The party kicks off on Wednesday, November 13 with a Beehive Shorts block, a concert from G Yamazawa with Shirlette Ammons and Kid Ethnic that night (page 16), plus Visual/Sound/Walls and Dance-a-lorus, along with nighttime screenings. Flipping through this edition of encore will take readers through all of what to expect. But one event to mark to the top of the list is a celebration of North Carolina cinema and beverage at Brews ‘n Bytes: Connect Speakers Party.

It’s a social hour sponsored by NC TECH where all speakers for Connect mingle with festival-goers and sip Social House Vodka (Kinston, NC) and beer from Foothills Brewing (Winston-Salem, NC)—two sponsors of all drinks served at Cucalorus 25 (found in the filmmakers lounge, which returns to the back of Thalian Hall, and in Jengo’s backyard for all the late-night parties).

What I really wanted to know about when interviewing executive director Dan Brawley was all the exclusive Cuctails (pronounced “KOOK-tails”) I’ve heard about for so long. In my six-and-a-half years in this town, I’ve never been able to make it to a Cucalorus (that’s changing this year, thank you very much). Come to find out, Brawley decided to name the cocktails after hairstyles, much like Cucalorus’ shorts blocks: Jheri Curl Shorts and Psychobilly Wedge Shorts included (I had to look up the Psychobilly Wedge haircut: Think pompadour, but so high and tight it’s basically a mohawk). The only Cuctail that isn’t a shorts block is the Flytrap, but that’s the festival’s logo this year, which pays homage to our indigenous carnivorous flora.

e: Who tends bar?

DETAILS FILMMAKER COCKTAIL COMPETITION Friday, November 15, Midnight Jengo’s Backyard, 815 Princess St. Must have a festival pass for entry cucalorus.org While each of the Cuctails is made with Social House vodka, there are plenty of other ingredients to keep each sip unique and full of local flare and flavor. Among some of those ingredients are rosemary, fig, blueberry and honey.

I got to pick Brawley’s brain about the Cuctail program this year. encore (e): What can you tell me about the progression of the festival Cuctails?

Dan Brawley (DB): We’ve been drinking too much since the very beginning, but we started taking it seriously about eight years ago when we launched our Cuctails program to explore bartending, mixology, cocktails, and even more now, to showcase distilleries in North Carolina.

DB: We have an incredible partnership with Paul Campbell and Mr. Bartender.

Paul and his crew designed this year’s recipes and have been the premiere mixologists at the festival’s major social events for several years. e: Who else are you working with?

DB: We’ve had so many great partnerships with this program over the years.

This year we have Coastal Beverage, Social House and Mr. Bartender as our primary collaborators. e: Any events that you’re particularly excited about? I know there’s been a cocktail competition in years past.

DB: Yeah! The filmmaker cocktail-making contest will be in the backyard [of Jengo’s Playhouse] on Friday night. Five filmmakers will all be given a box of ingredients and will then have 30 minutes to come up with a cocktail recipe. Humans will then vote with a Skittle system to determine who wins. Red Skittles count double. e: Do you pair movies with any of the beverages? If so what pairing are you most excited about?

CUCTAILS What’s Cucalorus without a little boozy fun?

DB: We let the audience decide on this one­—but you can grab a tasty bev from the filmmakers lounge at Thalian or the backyard at Jengo’s before seeing screenings at those venues. And, of course, we have popcorn! e: Anything else you’d care to share?

You’re known for having something up your sleeve.

DB: Unless you can print in invisible ink, I can’t tell you everything. But I will say that it’s organically fancy. Slightly orgasmic. e: Well, color us curious, Dan. DB: Every event at Cucalorus is a cocktail party.

The program includes workshops to learn about things like shrubs and bitters but also educational info about how distilleries work—from the science to the legal aspects. e: Who designed the Cuctails menu?

DB: This year we are unveiling six crafty recipes. They will be revealed at the filmmakers lounge on Wednesday afternoon. encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 41

OGLE INTO OTHERWOLDS Augmented and virtual reality films will be set up at the Brooklyn Arts Center Annex downstairs as part of Connect, 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Thursday only.

Courtesy photo

BY SHEA CARVER

C

ucalorus is like the official holiday kickoff in ILM. Actually, it’s even better than waking up on Christmas morning to stuffed stockings and presents galore.

It’s a five-day jaunt of kooky (Cuc-y) fun, where artists’ creative wells get filled with inspiration and hope, ideas and color, connection and vitality.

All you dear readers have probably flipped through the paper and noticed practically every article is dedicated to this celebration of art that takes place every November. Celebrating 25 years of Cucalorus is no small feat. Its growth has been a welcome development for all arts, from film to music to theatre to tech and beyond. We can’t wait to see what the next 25 years bring.

In case you need more ideas on how to enjoy November 13-17, here are some extras to put on your to-do list.

Let’s get Cuc-y!

Dance-a-lorus Wed., Nov. 13, 7 p.m.

Thalian Hall Main Stage Tickets: $20-$30

What happens when the language of movement merges with the language of film and music?

Dance-a-lorus.

It’s an opening-night tradition of the annual festival, and this year is no exception.

Ten dancers and more than a dozen artists of all media will come together to showcase a masterful evening of creativity: from Alyona Amata and Emily Bannerman’s “Crook” (blending circular movements of the body with the camera’s pattern of shapes) to Nancy Podgrasyky and Gene Felice II’s “immobilité dansant” (wherein dancers take architectural shapes thanks to projections and costumers) to Mirla Criste’s ode to her dad in “Loft.”

The Great Capitalism Debate Thurs., Nov. 14, 9:30 a.m.

EXTRA

CUC-Y More things to do and see during Cucalorus 25 BAC Annex, Upstairs Tickets: $15

It’s a debate that’s more relevant than ever as 21% of the United States’ income is earned by the top 1% (who only need to make around $420,000 a year to be in this echelon of people). Whom does capitalism really benefit? And do we need to shift and modify this model for an ever-changing America? These questions will be discussed by UNCW assistant professor of sociology Dr. Tim Gill and UNCW associate professor of economics Dr. Adam Jones at Connect’s Thursday morning address. The event is moderated by Malaika Paquiot, head of product and design at K4Connect in Raleigh, and is sure to be controversial.

Audience members will be able to weigh in with thoughts and questions.

VR Salon Thurs., Nov. 14, 9:30 a.m.

BAC Annex, Downstairs Tickets: $15

Virtual reality made its way into Cucalorus when Connect started a short five years ago. Every year since, Cucalorus has welcomed filmmakers, entrepreneurs and tech innovators to share the evolving technology of augmented and virtual reality. Those who dare to pop on a pair of those bad-boy goggles will be swept away into a world of fantasy and intrigue,

42 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

created by Emma Jaster, Sara Fenton and Matt Pearson in 2019. “Ashe ‘68” follows the moments leading up to Arthur Ashe’s 1968 US Open win, while “Lockstop” showcases a poverty-stricken 10-year old find his passion in ballroom dancing. Stop by the BAC Annex downstairs between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Thursday for a chance to take trippy ride into other worlds.

The Filmmakers’ Party Fri., Nov. 15, 5:30 p.m.

BAC Main Tickets: $45

Cucalorus welcomes attendees to Brooklyn Arts Center for even more live music as filmmakers, artists, creatives, and film fans gather for drinks and good vibes. Local rockers Billy Heathen will headline the show with their blend of surf and art rock. Before that, Wilmington’s The Frondeurs will bring bombastic flamboyance with ‘60s-influenced indie rock, and Emily Burdette will perform folk-pop originals on acoustic guitar.

Bus to Lumberton Sat., Nov. 16, 9 p.m.

Jengo’s Backyard It’s been a walk-through art installation in a downtown abandoned two-story building ... a scavenger hunt-slash-5K ... a voyeuristic foray into scenes from “Blue Velvet” in Jengo’s Backyard. Now, for 2019, the Bus to Lumberton pays homage to the locally filmed David Lynch classic with an actual bus!

Eldon the Bus is coming to the backyard of Jengo’s on Saturday night for Cucalorus alum Jen West to stage a performance installation, starring Kristin Slaysman and Karl Jacob, with special guests Virginia Newcomb. Will there be a severed ear involved?

Huffing gas? Sultry singing, a la Isabella Rossellini? Your guess is as good as ours.

Come to find out (must have a pass to enter the backyard).

DETAILS CUCALORUS 25 Tickets:

$15 and up

Passes: $80-$400 (limited availability; passes also allow access into filmmakers’ lounge at Thalian Hall and Jengo’s Backyard) TicketBox: 106-200 Market St.

Venues: Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St. Jengo’s Playhouse, 815 Princess St. Brooklyn Arts Center, 516 N 4th St. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, 111 Grace St. The Blind Elephant, 21 N Front St. (down Smith Alley) UNCW King Hall, 601 Hamilton Dr. Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 N Front St. Hell’s Kitchen, 118 Princess St. tekMountain, 1844 Sir Tyler Dr.

Website: cucalorus.org

November 20 at 7:30 PM Wilson Center 910.362.7999 • WilsonCenterTickets.com encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 43

CARPE

LIBRUM

BY GWENYFAR ROHLER

W

ilmington’s literary community keeps gaining accolades (two National Book Awards nominees in 2015) and attention in the press. With multiple established publishers in the state (Algonquin, Blair) and new smaller presses gaining traction (Lookout, Eno, Bull City), and a pair of well-regarded literary magazines out of UNCW, it is timely to shine a light on discussions around literary publishing. More so, it shows the importance of communicating a truthful story in our present world.

Welcome to Carpe Librum, encore’s biweekly book column, wherein I will dissect a current title and an old book—because

Instagram and Tumblr pages looking for more of their art (and more of the storyline).

Once I was hooked on a storyline, suddenly it was 4 a.m. before I resurfaced from the rabbit hole. So on that point D’Alessandro has succeeded in introducing artists to a new and different audience.

Local comic-book anthology blends spectacular art and storytelling

After sifting through such a treasure trove, I started asking myself why certain pieces drew my attention more than others? I happen to like realistic illustrations, and of course stories about people figuring out how to make their little corner of the world better. To that end, “Summer” by Kacee Navarro is one of the selections I am drawn to over and over again. The art is hyper-realistic and the story is simple: A kid and his dad enter into a coming-of-age bargain about how the summer will be spent.

literature does not exist in a vacuum but emerges to participate in a larger, cultural conversation. I will feature many NC writers; however, the hope is to place the discussion in a larger context and therefore examine works around the world.

Milk & Honey Comics Anthology Vol. 4 Giancarlo D’Alessandro Fall 2019, pgs. 80 Volume 4 of "Milk & Honey" has arrived! Let the rejoicing begin!

No, I don’t mean the poetry book by Rupi Kaur. I mean the anthology of independent comics curated by Giancarlo D’Alessandro.

D’Alessandro grew up in Wilmington

and always has had a variety of creative projects in the hopper. A few years ago he shyly handed me the first volume of "Milk & Honey," folded and stapled together in classic zine style. Fast forward to issue #4, and it is bound with a slick cover.

I can’t help but beam with pride, but all that aside, this issue is splendid. In addition to the comics, there are interviews with various creators. I really love the three-person interview with Jerome Smith, Elijah Simon and Travis Smith who are cousins and co-creators. Their work has more of a traditional superhero bend to the art­—lots of battle sequences, action panels, and characters with impressive physiques and stylized clothing. They give a really great perspective on collaboration and how that changes over time as people grow.

Scott Hensel and Caroline Smith also give an interesting interview about blending their strengths as artists and a married couple. One has an art-school background and the other came to comics through music. It is quite a combination they have put together. Balancing and blending a creative and romantic relationship is not simple, but it can bear beautiful fruit. (Smith’s comic, “Drifting,” is particularly lovely.

• Wings • Salads • • Sandwiches • Seafood • • Steaks • Ribs • Chicken • Pasta •

16 Cold Draft Beers

The comics selected really do run the gamut. Some of the pieces represent the beginning of a storyline, others are standalones, and some are just non sequiturs. One of my favorites, “Monumental" by Anne Skove, is a quick trip through public art via a conversation with Ellen Adams, director/curator at the Alice T. Miner Museum. Skove uses it to explain, very quickly, why Confederate monuments can and should come down.

There are also excerpts from longer works that serve to make readers spend hours sorting through artists’ websites,

44 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

With “Bike Shop,” Allison Bannister utilizes a wonderful blend of visual storytelling and magical realism to create something simple and compelling. The dialogue bubbles are filled with images.

So the dinosaur who runs the bike shop and the girl who work there tell readers entire lengthy stories with very direct images that let them fill in the elaboration in their mind’s eye. It is creative and fascinating.

I kept feeling like I recognized the structure for the anthology itself, but it took a few minutes for the filing clerk in my head to wave the right card-catalog entry. D’Alessandro is utilizing exactly the structure of a literary magazine any MFA program would use. There is a piece of art for the cover, one for the title page, an opening letter from the editor, table of contents, even interviews interspersed with content, and after the content, a lovely couple of pages detailing the contributors and their contact info (Instagram, websites, Tumblr).

Once I had this realization, I read "Milk and Honey" with the same parameters I would expect from a literary magazine.

Well, except D’Alessandro has far better taste and more fun than the editors of most lit mags and has put together something enjoyable and not pretentious for the sake of feeling pretentious.

There is an air of fun and creativity and excitement on every page. It feels like many of the creators are submitting their works because they want to share them, and for no other reason. For the comics novice like myself, it ignites excitement about the possibilities of the storytelling form that are dormant.

"Milk & Honey" is available at Whatever Wilmington and via their website, milkandhoneycomics.com.

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Nov. 15, 5pm: Cause Beer is a charitable foundation that aids ILM craft beverage producers, bottle shops, and bars in giving back to their community. Pint Nights are approaching so make sure to mark your calendars for The Sour Barn on November 15th Saturday 5-9pm. The Dog Wagon will be on site and Jon Hussman will be playing some tunes and tons of raffle prizes will be up for grabs. The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

LOCAL BREWS FOR LOCAL BOOBS

Nov. 16, 5pm: Wilmington Brewing Company is donating a $1 per pint sold between 5-9PM on Nov 16th, so come out and show your support for NHRMC Foundation’s The Pink Ribbon Project! Entertainment by Adam Quinn.

Food Truck: Bill’s Front Porch. 824 South Kerr Ave. wilmingtonbrewingcompany.com

events MARINA VILLAGE NIGHT MARKET

FALL FROLIC FOR FOUR PAWS

Nov. 15, 4-8pm: Listen to some live tunes, peruse some great local vendors and enjoy some of the wonderful businesses located in Marina Village. This is a dog friendly event and free to the public. Marina Village, Riverlights, 109 Pier Master Point, #100.

Nov. 17, 1-3pm: Four Paws and a Wake Up-NC is holding their first fundraiser at Watermans Brewing. Owner Craig Gee and his team have already made us welcomed and is committed to helping this event be a success. Light bites will be served and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. A cash bar will be available for folks to try local IPA’s like Waterman’s Shore Break or Waterman’s Just Camping. k94paws.org. 1610 Pavillion Place

BURGWIN-WRIGHT HOLIDAY MARKET

Nov. 16, 9am-3pm, free: Get a jump start on your holiday shopping at our First Annual Holiday Market. 25+ vendors- local authors, artists, food, drinks, handmade crafts and more! Vendors will be scattered throughout our acre of gardens. The historic house, jail, visitor center and art gallery will remain open for regular operational hours of 10am-4pm.

Food- Louie’s Hot Dog unveiling the “Burgwin-Wright House” hot dog! Burgwin Wright House, 224 Market St. www.burgwinwrighthouse.com

music OPEN-MIC AT TIDAL CREEK

Comedians, singers, songwriters, poets, yodelers! Come out the co-op on Wednesday night & show us what you got! Free coffee

SUNSET MUSIC CRUISE

WINTER PARK HOLIDAY MARKET

Nov. 16, 10am-2pm , free. Winter Park Presbyterian Church will hold a Holiday Artist Market featuring local artists selling pottery, jewelry, baked items and more! (910) 7915893. Winter Park Presbyterian Church, 4501 Wrightsville Ave. winterparkpres.org Pottery, jewelry, glass, unique art, textiles, essential oils, and so much more!

HOLIDAY CRAFT MARKET

Nov. 16, 10am: Please join us for a day of holiday shopping and whimsy as dozens of local artists will be offering up their unique treasures! Find that perfect gift while supporting the Wilmington Early College High School PTSA! CFCC North Campus McKeithan Center, 4500 Blue Clay Rd.

CB WINE AND BEER WALK

Nov. 16, 1pm: Carolina Beach Wine & Beer Walk invades the beach for some fun Fall weather! Don’t miss out on this popular sampling tour of the beach’s finest venues! Tickets are $16 each or a limited amount of 2 for $27 are available online at Etix.com or individual ticket sales at the following business (cash only): Seawitch – 227 Carolina Beach Ave N. (Carolina Beach). Check-in location will be at Carolina Beach Boardwalk Stage (Carolina Beach Avenue South). At check in, you present your ticket, or purchase your ticket the day of the show (if tickets remain).

You will receive your “official” Carolina Beach Wine & Beer Walk ID and a map of the partic-

ipating establishments. As you walk through the various locations you will receive 2 wonderful samples (per venue) of a specially selected wine or beer. All participants must be at least 21 years of age, and have a valid ID readily available for establishments to verify. Check in ends at 3pm. (216) 374-8884 or CoolWilmington@gmail.com

charity/fundraisers

CHEERS! Cape Fear Wine and Beer Walk will take place in Carolina Beach this Saturday, beginning at 1 p.m.

Stock photo

NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY AWARDS BREAKFAST

Nov. 13, 7:30am, $35. The National Philanthropy Day Awards Breakfast, presented by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Cape Fear Chapter, will be held on Wednesday, November 13th, at the Hotel Ballast.

This is our annual, signature event at which people representing businesses, nonprofits, philanthropists and volunteers come together to celebrate our vibrant philanthropic community. All nonprofit organizations can participate in our Honoree process by recognizing donors, volunteers and special friends who have made a truly exceptional impact.

910tix.com. Hotel Ballast, 301 N. Water St.

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA GOLF TOURNEY

Nov. 15, 7:15am: Captain’s Choice starts at 8:30am and it is a really fun day for a great

46 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

cause. All the proceeds stay within the Cape Fear Council to help underprivileged kids afford to join scouts and go to summer camp and all the wonderful programs that scouting provides to enrich our youth. Outstanding prizes including a chance to be in a $1mm shootout and on top of that you can win two five-night cruises and major sporting event tickets for closest to the pin challenges. $1,500 – VIP Sponsor (includes recognition and a 4-some); $600, Team; $300, Hole Sponsor; $150, Individual Golfer. www. golfbsa.com Harrison Gould, 252-903-6020; Chris Hoenig, 910-617-3646. facebook.com/ events/404492750162598

CAUSE BEER PINT NIGHT

Fri., 6:30pm: Looking for something different to do? Look no further! Come aboard The Wilmington, our comfortable catamaran, for a fun cruise down the Cape Fear River as we cruise into the sunset. Grab a tasty cocktail or drink from our full bar and sit back and relax as you listen to live music from local musicians. One-of-a-kind music venue in Wilmington and this cruise is one of our most popular excursions, so be sure to book early!

Wilmington Water Tours, 212 Water St.

THE DRUM CIRCLE

Every Tues., 8-11pm, longest continuous Drum Circle for over 6 year provides an open forum, featuring djembe, dounbek, conga, bongo, cajon, yosika and other hand drums and percussive instruments. Friendly environment for the enjoyment of rhythm and dance. All levels, rhythms welcome! Loaner drums available. Free. Hosted by Ron at Bottega Art & Wine Bar, Brooklyn Arts District.

723 N. Fourth St.

JAZZ AT CAM

Tickets to the eight-concert series, playing a range of jazz genres in an intimate listening room performance. All concerts are 6:308pm, 1st Thurs., through April 2020 at Cameron Art Museum. Presented by CAM and Cape Fear Jazz Society: CAM/CFJS Members: $17; non-members: $25; students with valid college ID $12 (tax and fees not included). Dec. 5, Paolo André Gualdi; 2020: Jan. 9, Stanley Baird Group; Feb. 6, Andrew Berinson Trio; Mar. 5, Lenora Zenzalai Helm; Apr. 2, John

Organic cBD JOIN US

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Mon.-Thurs.: 4pM-12:30 aM • Fri.-saT.: 4pM - 1:30aM sun: 4pM-11pM • 2101 MarkeT sT., uniT 7 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 47

book your holiday parties now!

Private room up to 30 people

Offering cheese, fresh meats and seafood along with many dessert fondues including melted chocolate, caramel, peanut butter and marshmallows!

We wil open 2pm New Year’s Day

48 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

Brown Quintet. CAM, 3201 S. 17th St. cameronartmuseum.org.

familiar “Ritual Fire Dance.” This is an Official Cucalorus Film Festival stage event. The Austin Piazzolla Quintet specializes in the music of the late Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla as well as original nuevo tango compositions. Founded by James Anderson (violin), the APQ has been performing to captivated audiences since 2009.

With Jonathan Geer (piano), Ben Thomas (bandoneon), Tony Rogers (cello), and Phil Spencer (bass), all from diverse musical backgrounds, the band continues the tradition of nuevo tango through intense live shows which feature unique arrangements of Piazzolla’s groundbreaking works, breathtaking original compositions, and fiery improvisation. Tickets at capefearstage.com.Wilson Center, 703 North Third St.

CUCALORUS/VISUAL/SOUND/WALLS

Nov. 13, 8pm: Featuring G Yamazawa with Shirlette Ammons and Kid Ethnic, $15. Cucalorus presents an interactive music video concert featuring G Yamazawa, Shirlette Ammons and the visual stylings of Kid Ethnic. An interactive evening of live performers with a selection of NC’s best music videos projecting onto all available surfaces. An ear-filling, eye-popping night of multi-sensory stimulations for humans from planet earth.

CAM PRO MUSICA SERIES

Nov. 14, 7pm: Cameron Art Museum and UNCW Dept. of Music welcomes Minneapolis Guitar Quartet. With profoundly moving performances expressing heart-felt intimacy to dazzling bravado, the Minneapolis Guitar Quartet has captivated audiences throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. The featured works of the evening will include Ian Krouse’s StarWaves, an exhilarating fusion of rock and classical music based on a song by British pop/rock musician Nick Drake. The program will include the works of quartet member Maja Radovanlija along with favorites by Johann Sebastian Bach and Joquin Rodrigo. CAM Members: $12; non-members: $17; students, $8; UNCW Students with valid ID, free. CAM’s Weyerhaeuser Reception Hall, 3201 S. 17th St. cameronartmuseum.org.

KENNY G

Nov. 17, 7:30-10pm, $36 – $88: A phenomenally successful instrumentalist whose recordings routinely made the pop, R&B, and jazz charts during the 1980s and ’90s, Kenny G’s sound became a staple on adult contemporary and smooth jazz radio stations. He’s a fine player with an attractive sound (influenced a bit by Grover Washington, Jr.) who often caresses melodies, putting a lot of emotion into his solos.

Wilson Center, 703 North Third St. Tickets: capefearstage.com

WSO MASTERWORKS CONCERTS: LATIN SOUL

Nov. 16, 7:30-9pm, $17 – $47: This concert will feature El Amor Brujo by De Falla with its

Massage Therapy and Private yoga instruction available blueberrysagemassageyoga.com

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Open 11am-11pm daily encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 49

theatre/auditions CIRCUS INDUSTRY NIGHT

Every Thurs. evening. A popular spot for Wilmington’s underground fire dancers, flow artists, hoopers, jugglers, magic, sideshow and other obscure performing arts. There’s no formal show, but don’t be surprised to see things flying. No cover, no expectations. Just a night for circus artists to share tricks, try out new moves, or simply kick back, talk shop, and meet other likeminded artists. The Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

DARKNESS: THE ENEMY INSIDE

Nov. 14-17, 21-24, 8pm or 2pm on Sundays: “Darkness” is a new hybrid play written collectively by five European playwrights as part of the EU Collective Plays project (the EUCP involves eight new play projects and over 50 writers world-wide). “Darkness” explores how the seemingly harmonious Scandinavian society, where everything seems to be solved for you, makes the individual sometimes acutely aware of his or her inner demons. The Nordic group uses the descriptor, “the enemy inside,” to describe this phenomenon. What happens if your happiness becomes solely your own responsibility? Having all your dreams fulfilled can lead to existential crises—here explored from the different vantage points of the writing team from various Scandinavian countries, and expressed in folk tales, Norse legends and in reference to the language and natural wonders of the Nordic landscape.

Tickets: $15 GA, $12 for seniors, UNCW em-

ployees, and alum, and $6 for students (sales tax included.) uncw.edu/arts/tickets.html.

UNCW Cultural Arts Building Mainstage Theater, 5270 Randall Dr.

DOWN HOME COUNTRY CHRISTMAS

Nov. 15-16, 5pm: Duplin Winery presents its annual holiday dinner theater. Start the evening by adding on a comprehensive wine tasting and tour before the show starts. During your tasting and tour, our staff will share entertaining and amusing family stories and educate you on the winemaking process. During the dinner show, you will be treated with a menu that highlights seasonal, local flavors mingled with Duplin’s finest wines and gourmet Muscadine dressings. Duplin Winery, 505 N. Sycamore St. duplinwinery.com

art FOURTH FRIDAY GALLERY NIGHT

Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, Wilmington’s premier after-hours celebration of art and culture, 6-9pm, fourth Fri. ea. month. Art openings, artist demonstrations, entertainment and refreshments. Administered by the Arts Council of Wilmington and NHC, numerous venues participate. www.artscouncilofwilmington.org

CATHERINE LUDWIG DONLEYCOTT’S SEASCAPES

Ocean breezes, wind swept sea oats, white capped waters, and lazy summer beaches fill our thoughts during these hot summer months. Catherine Ludwig Donleycott’s Unique Seascapes collection captures sum-

SUSHI ON A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

Sushi Burritos | Sushi Bowls | Sushi Tacos Sushi Donuts | And More

3224 N College Rd Suite A, Wilmington, NC 28405 Open daily 11am - 9pm 50 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

mer moments on canvas using oils, watercolors and acrylics. Donleycott’s collection is currently installed and available for viewing and purchase downtown at River to Sea Gallery. River to Sea Gallery & Wine, 224 S Water Street, #1B. rivertoseagallery.com

MONTAGE: A CUCALORUS VOLUNTEER ART EXHIBIT

encore and Coworx in The Cargo District present “Montage: A Cucalorus Volunteer Art Exhibit,” featuring art work made by volunteers of Wilmington’s annual festival. The exhibit features multimedia works by Penney Vasquez, Francisco ‘Cisco’ Amieva, Anya Ekaterina and Brighid Greene. Over 20 works available for purchase. Plus, a silent auction of one piece from each artist will benefit Cucalorus. On display through Jan. 20. 1608 Queen St.

DIVERSE WORKS ARTISTS: ALL THINGS PAPER

The show focuses on paper and all its capabilities while challenging the depth of creativity within each artist. Artists include MJ Cunningham, Christine Farley, Liz Hosier, Kathryn Houghtaling, Anne Sinclair, Peggy Vineyard and Katherine Wolf Webb with special guest papermaker Fritz Huber. The show will run by appointment through Nov. 16. Closing reception on Nov. 15, 6 -9pm. elizhosier@gmail.com for details. Acme, 711 N 5th Ave.

FUR, FEATHERS AND FAIR WINDS

This show combines two artists work that have very different styles. Todd Carignan is a traditional oil painter creating mood with color and brushstrokes, taking you to the water’s edge and the horizon where water meets the sky. Mark Weber uses oil and ink to also create a mood, and transport you to the jungle, or the wilderness in your own backyard. New Elements Gallery, 271 N. Front St.

HOMEGROWN BY ANGELA ROWE

New art exhibit, hosted by Art in Bloom and Checker Cab Productions, at Pinpoint.

“Homegrown” is about local food and the local places that offer it. Angela Rowe’s paintings explore the movement of food from farms and waters to markets and to table. Woven through these paintings are my food memories and stories, a sort of autobiography in food. Rowe is a native of Pisgah Forest, North Carolina who grew up drawing, doodling, and creating imaginary houses from shoeboxes and paper. Angela began taking classes at The Museum School

of Cameron Art Museum and in October of 2014, she leased studio space at ACME Art Studios. She works in acrylic, mixed media, collage and print making. 5:30-6:30pm. Free and open to the public with complimentary champagne and appetizers. 114 Market St. aibgallery.com

KAREN VAN SICKLE

Nov. 14, 6-9pm, free. Champagne toast and special reception for Karen Van Sickle’s latest show at Platypus and Gnome; free and open to the public with complimentary champagne and appetizers. As part of Art in Bloom’s partnership with Checker Cab productions, Wilmington artist, Kirah Van Sickle will showcase exploration and visual storytelling. Her acrylic and mixed media works incorportae found objects and papers with the paint glaze as deeply personal expressions of her memories and dreams. 9 South Front St. aibgallery.com

ART AND MOVIE NIGHT W/ELIZABETH DARROW

Nov. 16, 6-8pm, free: Join us for a special reception & movie night with artist, Elizabeth Darrow during the pop-up art exhibit, “It’s About Time.” Experience the first screenings of the short Documentary “Elizabeth Darrow: Believing in the Process.” Enjoy snacks and view original art. The events are free and open to the public. The Pop-up art exhibit, receptions, and movie nights are presented by Art in Bloom Gallery at 216 N. Front Street (former Expo216 Building). Continues through November 29th and is open Tues – Sunday, noon to 5-9pm on Fourth Friday Gallery Nights, November 27. aibgallery.com. 216 N. Front St.

RICHARD BUNTING ART RECEPTION

Nov. 17, 3pm; Nov.18, 5pm, free: Join us for a special reception with artist Richard Bunting. View blown-glass art and meet the artist. Enjoy snacks and desserts. Open to the public. Actor, singer, and glass artist, Richard Bunting has shown his glass art in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Ohio. He has created and refined his performing art for over 36 years and his glass art for over 18 years. Art in Bloom Gallery, 210 Princess St.

film JUDY

Nov. 18-20, 7pm (additional screening on 20, 4pm), $9: Winter 1968 and showbiz leg-

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UPCOMING EVENTS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16 | 2:00PM | Women’s Basketball vs South Carolina State SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17 | 1:00PM | Women’s Volleyball vs College of Charleston TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19 | 7:00PM | Men’s Basketball vs NC Wesleyan College WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20 | 7:00PM | Women’s Basketball vs Mount Olive

Tickets on Sale Now!

1.800.808.UNCW OR UNCWSPORTS.COM/BUYTICKETS

encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com 51

encore’s bacchanalia of peace on earth and good will to men...

Brooklyn Arts Center

December 12, 2019

Boombalatti’s Homemade Ice Cream • Flytrap Brewing • New Anthem Beer Project • Edward Teach Brewing Steam Restaurant & Bar • Wilmington Brewing Company • Wake N Bake Donuts • Zocalo • Board and Barrel • Shuckin Shack • True Blue Butcher and Table • Flying Machine Brewing Company • Bills Front Porch/Brewing • Italian Bistro Little Dipper • The Second Glass • Palate Bottle Shop • Cravings • Greenline Steaks and Pizza • Waterline Brewing Cast Iron Kitchen • Nothing Bundt Cakes • Tap Tea • Spoonfed Kitchen and Bake Shop • Beer Barrio • Skytown Brewery Island Beverage • Dram + Morsel • Trey Herring Carolina Bourbon • Savor Southern Kitchen

Entertainment from the encore carolers and Pineapple-Shaped Lamps!

Contests for best bite, sip, decorated booth, and audience costumes, set to the theme of “A Christmas Story!” sponsored by

52 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

VIP ($75) and GA tickets ($50) on sale at

a benefit for

REAL. GOOD. BBQ. And the best fried chicken in town!

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Family Meal Deals: $25.99 BBQ Special: $13.99 Early Bird Specials, M-F, 3:30-5:30pm: $5.99

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RESPON SI BLE IT SO L UT IO NS

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Call us at 910.392.0078 www.Computer-Medics.biz help@Computer-Medics.biz

our most popular cruise

spirit of the holidays cruise

EAGLE ISLAND CRUISE

Join us on a scenic 50-minute narrated eco-history cruise featuring views of unspoiled nature and a variety of wildlife daily.

Enjoy a relaxing ride on the river on our comfortable catamaran as you learn more about Wilmington, NC from our friendly captain and crew. Gain a new perspective on our history and our ecology as we share fun facts and historical anecdotes as we cruise along the Cape Fear River.

On the even hours, we cruise north along the Historic Downtown and Eagles Island for a 50-minute adventure.

On the odd hours, we head south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge to the State Ports.

Bring your camera along, there are photo ops in every direction!

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Visit us on the Riverwalk! 212 S. Water Street 910-338-313 4 • email: info@wilmingtonwt.com

HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

Follow us

BAR ON BOARD WITH ALL ABC PERMITS

Complete Schedule: wilmingtonwatertours.net

Start a New Holiday Tradition!

Cruise the Cape Fear River while enjoying the sights, sounds and tastes of the Holidays.

Cruises begin the Saturday after Thanksgiving and go until Dec. 29th (every Friday & Saturday night, with Sunday the 22rd & 29th of December also) Join us for this magical time of the year and celebrate with family & friends. Friday & Saturday nights Local Musicians on board performing your favorite Christmas Holiday songs.

Featuring special Holiday Cheer from our Full Bar complimented with tasty treats.

1 hour cruise...$20

stand-up called Speed Joking. Enjoy a night of laughs! 1414 S College Rd.

end Judy Garland (Renée Zellweger) arrives in Swinging London to perform a five-week sold-out run at The Talk of the Town. It is 30 years since she shot to global stardom in The Wizard of Oz, but if her voice has weakened, its dramatic intensity has only grown. As she prepares for the show, battles with management, charms musicians and reminisces with friends and adoring fans, her wit and warmth shine through. Even her dreams of love seem undimmed as she embarks on a whirlwind romance with Mickey Deans, her soon-to-be fifth husband. Thalian Hall, 301 Chesnut St. whqr.org

LIVE RIFFING AND VINTAGE TV

Every Wed. join Dead Crow Comedy for improv night. Join local comedians for a TV party at Dead Crow! Interactive improvised comedy show. 265 N. Front St.

DEAD CROW

Open mic every Thursday, 8pm. Sign up is in person, 7pm. There’s no cost to participate, and each comedian is allotted three minutes of stage time. • Nov. 15-16, 7/9:30pm: Ben Gleib is the host and head writer of the Emmy nominated “Idiotest” on Netflix and Game Show Network, and was one of the stars of “Chelsea Lately” on E! His hilarious standup special on Showtime “Ben Gleib: Neurotic Gangster” is currently on Amazon Prime. He recently created the “Telethon for America” a voter turnout event which he hosted withOlivia Munn, featuring Natalie Portman, Charlize Theron, Chelsea Handler, Jane Fonda, Hasan Minhaj, Pete Davidson, Amy Schumer, Adam Devine, Dr. Phil and more. He has also been a contributor or host on CNN, Headline News, FOX News, NPR, ABC News, and makes politics and pop culture funny on his podcast “Last Week on Earth.” Tickets: deadcrowcomedy.com. 265 N. Front St.

dance CAPE FEAR CONTRA DANCE

Two hours of energetic, contemporary American country dancing with live music. Dress cool & comfortable, soft-soled shoes. All ages. 2nd/4th Tues, 7:30pm. United Methodist, 409 S. 5th Ave.

76ERS SQUARE DANCE CLUB

Inviting all mainstream and plus square dancers to join us for our weekly evening of dance on Thursdays from 8-9:30 pm at Senior Resource Center, 2222 S. College Rd. (entrance on Shipyard Blvd.). $5/person/dance. Join: $17.50/person/month.

SENIOR LINE DANCING

At Maides Park, Thurs., 11am-noon. Free!

Pre-reg. is not required. 1101 Manly Avenue

LAUGH FEST Ben Gleib will perform at Dead Crow Comedy Room this weekend, at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., both Friday and Saturday nights.

Courtesy photo

OVER 50'S DANCE

Mission is to provide a venue for ballroom and social dancing. Welcome dancers of all levels—great form of exercise and to socialize with others who also like to dance. The club holds a dance on the second Tuesday of each month. Variety of DJ’s play all kinds of dance music—ballroom, Latin, shag, rock & roll, country, slow nightclub. Cost $8/person. New Hanover Sr. Resource Ctr, 2222 S. College Rd. facebook.com/over50sdance

COMMUNITY AFRICAN DANCE CLASS

Oct. and Nov., all levels. Expose the community to the African Diaspora Culture through African dance for all ages and all levels. NOvember’s second class will start from 1-3:30 p.m. $20/class. Group prices include: $15 each for two; $10 each three or more; $5 for all children 6-16 years old.

DRAG ME TO IBIZA

Every Friday at Ibiza Nightclub—home to some of the areas most talented female impersonators. Our exclusive drag shows take place at 10:30pm and midnight. Afterward our dance floors is yours as our resident DJ spins a variety of House, Hip hop, Top 40 & EDM until 2:30am. 18+ with Valid ID. Ibiza Nightclub, 118 Market St.

BELLYDANCE SHOWCASE

Nov. 16, 9-10:30pm, $10: Ahmose is excited to bring to you the Bellydance Showcase!

Featuring some of the best dancers in our region and beyond! Each show is unique and different and give you a great night out with new friends and old! Our awesome band A 2 Z will be bringing their own original tunes and rocking the house. Reservations are highly

DAREDEVIL IMPROV COMEDY TROUPE LUCKY JOE COMEDY SHOW

First Sat. ea. month is free at Lucky Joe Craft Coffee on College Road, presented by Regretful Villains. The show features a new style of

Wilmington’s finest improvisors have partnered with veteran performers from the smash hit, family-friendly “Really Awesome Improv Show” at the world-famous Second City Hollywood to create a whip smart,

recommended as the seating is limited with a close up and personal view of the show! I can’t wait for you to join me! Zaghareet! Juggling Gypsy, 1612 Castle St.

LEARN TO BELLY DANCE

Get strong! Have fun! Meet friends! Belly dance classes for women 18+, no dance experience necessary. Introvert friendly, all body sizes and shapes welcomed. 6-week series.

No class Nov 26. No drop-ins. Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd St. DivineDanceGoddess.com

comedy OPEN MIC

Wildest open mic in town—anything goes. (except cover songs). Stand-up comedy, slam poetry, video, live music, odd talents, performances of all kinds. Hosted by 6-beer Steve.

Sign up, 8pm, and runs all night. Juggling Gypsy 1612 Castle St. (910) 763-2223, after 3pm for details. jugglinggypsy.com.

GRUFF GOAT COMEDY

First Wed. ea. month, Gruff Goat Comedy features Three Guest Comics Under a Bridge. No trolls. Waterline Brewing, 721 Surry Lane.

PRIMETIME COMEDY

See some of NC’s best stand-up comedians in a world class venue! This month’s talented performers: Brett Williams, Cordero Wilson, Grant Sheffield, Louis Bishop, and Tyler Wood.

Hosted by: Wills Maxwell. N Front Theatre (formerly City Stage), 21 N Front St.

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high-energy improv comedy show for the whole family! A perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon. This show relies on audience suggestions and participation to create a one-of-a-kind experience that your kids will love! It’s a live-action “Whose Line is it Anyway?” that’s perfect for children ages 5 and up! $2. Dead Crow Comedy Room, 265 North Front Street

BOMBERS COMEDY OPEN MIC

Sign up at 8:30; show’s at 9. Bring your best to the mic. Bomber’s Beverage Company, 108 Grace St.

museums CAMERON ART MUSEUM

of the South. • Through Apr. 26, 2020: The Eye Learns - Modernist prints from the Louis Belden Collection—In 2017 CAM was given an unprecedented bequest of works of art from San Francisco art collector Louis Belden.

The collection of 135 prints offers an endless range of expression, experimentation and expansion of the terrain of postwar modernism and includes original artworks from the leading artists, the change-makers, the radicals, the early modernist European expats, seeking asylum in this country. Among others, artists in the exhibition will include Josef Albers, Helen Frankenthaler, Wayne Thiebaud, Richard Diebenkorn, Ellsworth Kelly, Robert Rauschenberg. • Through April 26, 2020: Structure in Space and Time - Photography by Phil Freelon—Throughout his prodigious career, award-winning architect Freelon (American, 1953-2019) found photography essential to his design vision and creative process: Photography is one of the vehicles that I use to share my view of the world. As an architect, the expression of structure is central to my design process, bringing a sense of order to the final composition. Photographs examine thestructure that exists all around us—both in the natural and built environment. Everyone at CAM is deeply saddened by the passing of Phil Freelon on July 9, 2019. If you would like to honor his legacy you may make contributions to the North Star Church of the Arts. • CAM Café open and serving delicious menu with full bar. Brunch, Sat. and Sun., 10am2pm; Tues.-Fri., 11am-2pm; Thurs. 5-9pm.

Recuérdame/Remember Me: Through Nov. 10: Diego Camposeco’s (Mexican-American, 1992-2019) work illuminates aspects of contemporary immigrant identities and the integration of the Latinx identity in the larger popular culture. His photoraphy juxtaposes media representations of Latinxs in popular culture against the reality of agricultural labor for the lives of many living in the US and specifically in NC. Charlotte, NC artist Rosalia Torres-Weiner (American, b. Mexico City, 1961) uses her art to document social conditions and raise awareness about issues affecting immigrant communities like family separation, racism and moving beyond common stereotypes.

Across Charlotte her public murals celebrate the rich SeasideShuffle_Ad_Encore.pdf history and changing demographics 1 11/10/19

11:18 AM

Museum, 10am-5pm; Thurs., 10am-9pm. cameronartmuseum.org. 3201 S. 17th St.

CAPE FEAR MUSEUM

Ongoing: Explore the history of the 20th century in this new gallery designed, curated and fabricated by the Cape Fear Museum team.

The revamped 20th century gallery is the final chapter of the Museum’s core exhibit, Cape Fear Stories. The new exhibit paints a picture of New Hanover County and the dramatic social, cultural and economic transformations that shaped life in the 20th century and beyond. • Ongoing: Michael Jordan, known worldwide for his spectacular basketball skills, grew up in Wilmington. He achieved phenomenal success in basketball, and he worked hard to achieve his goals at every level. "Michael Jordan: Achieving Success" showcases his early years and Wilmington roots. Several artifacts are on display including an unworn pair of 1987 Air Jordan 1 shoes. • Ongoing: Space Place: Hands-on STEM interactives include a robotic arm, microscopic experiments and a glove box challenge. Visual elements offer real-time information about the International Space Station’s location and daily operations.

• Ongoing: Williston Auditorium: Education in Wilmington has a long, rich tradition, and the name “Williston” has been associated with schooling here since the 1860s. What began as an American Missionary Association school became—between 1923 and the day it closed its doors in 1968—the only high school for African Americans in New Hanover County. • Through Feb. 2, 2020: Once considered

an essential part of a wardrobe, the fashion hat has experienced a steady decline in popularity since the 1960s. Today, many people associate stylish hats only with a Sunday church service or a special event. This selection of hats reflects a number of the popular styles worn in the Cape Fear area from the 1940s through the 1960s.• Through Oct. 6, 2019: Play Time!, an exhibit that explores how we play, create, and use our imagination as children and adults. The display includes items from the museum’s historic toy collection and hands-on activities ranging from creating art to playing dress-up. • Through Feb. 23, 2020: Dinosaur Discovery explores the world of modern paleontology and the discoveries that reveal how dinosaurs lived, moved and behaved. Everything we know about these prehistoric animals comes from fossils unearthed by paleontologists. These scientists study ancient life by examining their finds and piecing together clues from the past. This exhibit was developed by the Virginia Museum of Natural History. CF Museum, 814 Market St. capefearmuseum.com

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH MUSEUM

WB Museum of History, housed in the turn of the century Myers Cottage, exists to preserve and to share the history of Wrightsville Beach. Visitors to the cottage will find a scale model of Wrightsville Beach circa 1910, exhibits featuring the early days of the beach including Lumina Pavilion, our hurricane history and information about the interaction between the people and our natural environ-

The 38th Annual on Roadrunner ’s Wilmingt

Proceeds benefit the Wilmington Roadrunners Scholarship Program

Sunday November 17th 7am Wrightsville Beach, NC More Info & Register at: tinyurl.com/y3wdm92k SEASIDE SHUFFLE SCHOLARSHIP FUN-RAI$ER Pre-Race Party - Packet Pick-up - Silent Auction & Raffles Waterman’s Brewing - Saturday November 16th - 3-6pm 56 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

-Salt Therapy Sessions -Massage Therapy -Reiki & Spiritual Services -Main Cave fits 12 -Treatment/Children’s Cave 1540 S 2nd St Suite 130, Wilmington, NC 28401 (910) 399-3638

www.nativesaltcaveandwellness.com

ment which have shaped the 100 yr. history of WB. (910) 256-2569. 303 W. Salisbury St. www.wbmuseum.com.

WILMINGTON RR MUSEUM

Explore railroad history and heritage, especially of the Atlantic Coast Line, headquartered in Wilmington for 125 years. Interests and activities for all ages, including historical exhibits, full-size steam engine and rolling stock, lively Children’s Hall, and spectacular model layouts. House in an authentic 1883 freight warehouse, facilities are fully accessible and on one level. By reservation, discounted group tours, caboose birthday parties, and after-hours meetings or mixers. Story Time on 1st/3rd Mon. at 10:30am, only $5 per family and access to entire Museum. Admission only $9 adult, $8 senior/military, $5 child, ages 2-12, and free under age 2. 505 Nutt St. 910-763-2634. www.wrrm.org.

LATIMER HOUSE

Victorian Italiante style home built in 1852, the restored home features period furnishings, artwork and family portraits. Tours offered Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm, and Sat, 12-5pm. Walking tours are Wed and Sat. at 10am. $4-$12.

Latimer House of Lower CF Historical Society is not handicapped accessible 126 S. 3rd St.

BURGWIN-WRIGHT HOUSE

18th century Burgwin-Wright House Museum in the heart of Wilmington’s Historic District, is the oldest museum house in NC, restored with 18th-19th century decor and gardens.

Colonial life experienced through historical interpretations in kitchen and courtyard. 3rd/ Market St. Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. Last tour, 3pm. 910-762-0570. burgwinwrighthouse. com.

BELLAMY MANSION

One of NC’s most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture, built on the eve of the Civil War by free and enslaved black artisans, for John Dillard Bellamy (1817-1896) physician, planter and business leader; and his wife, Eliza McIlhenny Harriss (1821-1907) and their nine children. After the fall of Fort Fisher in 1865, Federal troops commandeered the house as their headquarters during the occupation of Wilmington. Now a museum, it focuses on history and the design arts and offers tours, changing exhibitions and an informative look at historic preservation in action.

kids stuff SNAKE AND TURTLE FEEDING

Brief presentation about live animals on display in the events center and watch them feed. At least one snake and turtle will be fed during the demonstration. Ages: 3 and up.

First Wed. every month, $1. Halyburton Park, 4099 S. 17th St.

NATURE IN A NUTSHELL

An educator will be giving a ” Nature in a Nutshell” lesson on topics correlating with the weekly Little Explorers program theme.

Our nature themes will be brought to life through stories, songs, games, hikes, and other hands-on activities, Please dress for the weather (including closed-toe shoes) to be ready for outdoor fun! This is an extension of

our current Little Explorers classed for those who would still like to sign up for these popular programs. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Ages: 2-5. $3/person.

Day-use area right of Picnic Shelter # 2. Time for Thanksgiving! 11/23. 10-10:30am. Halyburton Park, 4099 S 17th St.

DISCOVER NEW MUSIC AT 98.3 THE PENGUIN

ART EXPLORER THURSDAYS

Bring your little ones to CAM for story reading and art making! Enjoy open studio time with your family. Such as reading stories, creating art with a variety of supplies, and having fun with friends! No pre-registration necessary.

Parental Supervision required at all times.

Auggested donation: $5/family. 3201 S. 17th St. cameronartmuseum.org

CAMPGROUND SCAVENGER HUNT

Nov. 16, 9am-1pm, $5: Ages 5 & under; $5 per child ( included with general admission).

No pre-registration required. Over the river and through the woods, to Fit For Fun we go!

Get ready for an “in-tents” adventure as you search for camping supplies! Fit For Fun Center, 302 S. 10th St. wilmingtonnc.gov/departments/parks-recreation/fit-for-fun-center

recreational

PLAYLIST SAMPLE PATTY GRIFFIN - TIME WILL DO THE TALKING HISS GOLDEN MESSENGER SATURDAY'S SONG ALEXI MURDOCH - ORANGE SKY PRETTY LIGHTS - FINALLY MOVING ST. GERMAIN W/ JOHN LEE HOOKER SURE THING

RAY LAMONTAGNE - JOLENE THE HIGHWOMEN - THE HIGHWOMEN THE BEATLES - LET IT BE BEN HARPER - BURN ONE DOWN JACK JOHNSON - BETTER TOGETHER

UPCOMING PENGUIN SHOWS

EARLY FLIGHT EXCURSION

Start your day on the water in search of wildlife and many of our feathered friends, while listening to interesting commentary about the rich history of this area. 2 hour cruise; full bar, serving coffee and the best Bloody Mary on the river. Photographers, birders, and nature buffs love the variety of wildlife and native plants that adorn the river banks. We may see osprey, alligators, sea turtles, and river otters, just to name a few. Bring your camera so you won’t forget the untouched beauty of this early morning adventure. Cruise through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation. $10-$20. ILM Water Tours, 212 S Water St.

FIRST FRIDAY BIRD HIKES

Join park staff for a leisurely bird-watching stroll around Halyburton Park the first Friday of each month. We’ll search for migrants and point out year-round bird species too. These walks are for beginner birders and all are welcome. Free. Ages: 5 and up. Halyburton Park, 4099 S 17th St. wilmingtonnc.gov/departments/parks-recreation/halyburton-park

GREAT PEACOCK

11/16

BOURGIE NIGHTS

VIKING DASH TRAIL RUN

Nov. 17, 9am: Are you ready for the Viking Challenge? Are you ready to be a part of the fastest growing trail run series in the Nation?

Are you ready to tackle 5K, 10K, or 13.1 miles of trails ? Are you ready to party like a Viking at the after party? If so, join us in Wilmington, NC on November 17 for the Viking Dash. Your registration includes a Thor’s Hammer Finisher Medal, Long Sleeve Race Shirt and BBQ lunch. Marina Village, 4410 River Rd. renee. griffin@setupevents.com

BEFORE THE CIVIL WAR CRUISE

Nov. 17, 10am-1pm, $50—This cruise will take you back in time & make history come alive. Join us for a 3 hour cruise full with the history of this area. Dr. Chris Fonvielle, our local history expert will be on board to bring you

GREAT PEACOCK (BOURGIE NIGHTS 11/16) THE 8TH ANNUAL L SHAPE LOT TOYS 4 TOTS CONCERT (BAC 12/14)

HISS GOLDEN MESSENGER (BAC 1/9/20)

SPECIALTY SHOWS:

THE EVENING EXPERIMENT WITH ERIC MILLER, WEDNESDAYS 7-9PM THE FRIDAY NIGHT PANIC JAM FRIDAYS AT 8PM ACOUSTIC CAFE SATURDAYS FROM 7-9AM ETOWN SATURDAYS AT 9AM PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC HOUR SUNDAYS AT 8AM

WWW.983THEPENGUIN.COM

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back in time. Starting with the early explorers, Giovanni de Verrazano being the first known European explorer to arrive in the area. Then we will go to the Revolutionary War in the late 1700’s and finishing with the Civil War & the Battle of Wilmington in 1865. This is a cruise that we do not do often, so do not hesitate to book. wilmingtonwatertours.net. Wilmington Water Tours, 212 S Water St.

classes/seminars

WILMINGTON OM BREW FALL SERIES

MEDITATE AND CHILL

Join Jesse Stockton + Jenny Yarborough every Tuesday, 7:30-8:30pm, Terra Sol Sanctuary. We’ll guide you through a 20-30 minute meditation to help you take a deep breath.

Relax. Let go. $10; no need to register in advance. 507 Castle St. terrasolsanctuary.com.

ELEMENTS OF SONGWRITING CLASS

In Elements of Songwriting we will examine the major elements of what goes into writing original music. We will study lyrics, melody, harmony, form, rhythm, and survey techniques used to enhance your songwriting. We will look at examples of music and lyrics, and discuss creative strategies for finding ideas and completing songs. The class will meet Mondays from 12-2 p.m. in Southport. Contact Barbara McFall, for details on how to sign up. They are also doing in person registration at 704 N. Lord Street, Southport. mcfallb@ brunswickcc.edu. 910-755-7300.

THE ART OF NONDOING

Nov. 16, 6-7:15pm, $40: Learn deep relaxation while remaining awake. Connect to yourself to find peace and clarity. Offered by Shannon Miller. Relax in our comfortable chairs while you are guided to a safe and calm space.

Combined with dry salt therapy which helps us to expand the lung capacity bringing more nourishing oxygen to the body and cells! Book online or call us 910-679-8066; register in advance. Prana Salt Cave, 7110 Wrightsville Ave., unit B-8 Tuesdays from 6-7pm join us and Yoga Village at the brewery for donation-based yoga.

Suggested donation is $15 but you may paywhat-you-can, if needed. Donations support Yoga Village community programming. Wilmington Brewing Company, 824 South Kerr Ave. facebook.com/events/2538362336408659.

lectures/readings ART LEAGUE OF LELAND

Nov. 14, 4pm: Art League of Leland (ALL) invites artists and art enthusiasts to its meeting with artist Janette K. Hopper. As the featured guest speaker, Hopper will discuss her artwork, as a painter, printmaker, performance artist and mask maker. Hopper’s work has been shown and collected extensively in museums, public venues, universities and private galleries nationally and internationally. ALL’s mission is to encourage, guide, support, inform, and provide learning opportunities for area artists and advocates of the arts. ALL

ed?

Car Flood

Call for Canvas & Awning Repair Don’t Throw That Old Funiture Away!

Go Green & Re-Upholster!

Fast Turn-around Time Let our experts turn your old, drab furniture into exciting new decor.

6609 Windmill Way

58 encore | november 13-19, 2019 | www.encorepub.com

KATHRYN DEMARCO

Nov. 14, 6pm: Meet guest exhibition artist, Kathryn DeMarco of Durham, her CAM exhibition Finding A Way (on view Nov. 14 – 24, Studio 1) tells the intimate story of diabetic night seizures through collage. DeMarco reveals her work process and raises awareness of daily living challenges of type-1 diabetes.

Featuring special guest speaker, Ginna Purrington, Diabetes Educator. Students registered in Kathryrn DeMarco’s two-day workshop, Nov 15-16, are encouraged to attend.

Limited seating, preregistration is encouraged. Cameron Art Museum, Studio 1, 3201 S. 17th St. Free and open to the public. cameronartmuseum.org

1949 ORTON HOTEL FIRE

Nov. 18, 8am-5pm, free: Travis Souther, local history librarian at the New Hanover County Public Library, will talk on the 1949 Orton Hotel Fire in downtown Wilmington and how historians and researchers interpret historical events from different points of view. federal-point-history.org

clubs/notices BIKE NIGHT

Bike Night at Mac’s Speed Shop, beer, bikes, BBQ. Featuring in concert: South Starr band playing great classic-southern R&R music!

Mac’s Speed Shop, 4126 Oleander Dr.

PCYP

n a C e W Help!!!

Full Service Shop ~ Insured Award Winning Custom Interiors 910.799.8746 (TRIM)

welcome artists and art lovers not only from Leland but also from neighboring communities. To learn more, go to www.artleagueofleland.org. Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way

Ask about our “re-purposed” furniture Do not despair, we can make the repair... let us fix separation anxiety

No membership required; all ages and professions welcome. Look for PCYP Ambassadors with silver name tags to get acquainted. Free food, networking, raffles, business-casual attire. Dates: Nov. 20 hosted by Poe’s Tavern—Wrightsville Beach; Dec. 4 at Homewood Suites by Hilton Wilmington/Mayfaire; Dec. 13 members only Christmas party, sponsored

by River Landing, hosted by St Thomas Preservation Hall/City Club. Memberships: $25$35. pcyp.thrivecart.com/annual-membership. RiverLights, 109 Pier Master Point #100

UNRAVELED

First Thurs. every month, 10am, a morning of knitting or crochet and conversation. This is a self-guided drop-in program. All skill levels welcome. Bring your own materials and projects to work on; supplies not provided. Northeast Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

CAPE FEAR ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE

Nov. 11, 1-3pm, free: Cape Fear Academy is a PK3-12th grade college preparatory school committed to discovering and developing individual potential, preparing each student for success in college and life. Please join us for an Open House Event where you will learn more about the academic and extracurricular opportunities available to the students at Cape Fear Academy. 3900 S College Rd. www. capefearacademy.org

IVICTUS MARTIAL ARTS GRAND OPENING

Nov. 16, 10am-2pm, free: We will be offering

tours, refreshments, martial arts demonstrations, and great specials including our Grand opening deal: Buy one membership, get one free! Check out all of our awesome martial arts training programs including Taekwondo and Krav Maga on our website, then come in and see us in our brand new facility at our Grand Opening! This event is for all ages so bring the whole family. Must be ages 3 and up and potty trained to enroll! We are located at 7122 Market Street, Suite #100 right next to Publix.

MUSEUM SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE

Nov. 17, 11am: Be first in line to register for Winter/Spring 2020 Adult and Youth Classes and Workshops and receive 10% discount (in person at event). Plus! Meet and visit with Museum School teaching. Free and open to the public. CAM Weyerhaeuser Reception Hall, 3201 S. 17th St. cameronartmuseum.org

CF SIERRA CLUB

Nov. 18, 6pm: Join us for an update on environmental legislation in North Carolina, presented by Cassie Gavin, Senior Director of Government Relations for the Sierra Club – NC Chapter. Key laws this past year include Duke Energy’s ratemaking bill and the Farm Act, with hemp provisions and protections for hog farms. Ms. Gavin will also address the status of the budget; the state legislative districts after the gerrymander ruling; and any progress on GenX, wood pellets, offshore drilling, and coal ash. Halyburton Park, 4099 S 17th St. Mix and mingle with pizza at 6 pm; presentation starts at 6:30 pm.

culinary FERMENTAL

Free tasting every Friday, 6pm. Third Wednesday of each month feat. musical and brewing talents alongside an open mic night, as well as the opportunity for homebrewers to share, sample, and trade their creations: an evening of beer and an open stage. PA and equipment provided. All genres and beer. fermental.net 910-821-0362. 7250 Market St.

FREE BREWERY TOURS AND TASTINGS

3pm, 3:45pm, 4:30pm, everyday at Front Street Brewery, 9 N. Front St. Learn how we brew our beer, meet brewers and get two free samples.

RIVERFRONT FARMERS’ MARKET

Sat., 8am-1pm: Local farmers, growers, producers and artisans to sell their goods directly to consumers, to encourage and promote the use of locally-grown farm products and artisan offerings. Vegetables, herbs, plants, annuals, perennials, native plants, fresh-cut flowers, baked goods, NC wines, dog treats, eggs, honey, goat cheeses, seafood, kombucha, meats, marina & fra diavolo sauce, smoothies and more. Artisan works of handmade jewelry, woodwork, silkscreen t-shirts & totes, photography, bath and body products, pet accessories, pottery, drawings and more.

N. Water St., historic downtown, along the beautiful Cape Fear River. riverfrontfarmersmarket.org.

SWEET N SAVORY WINE TASTING

FREE 25 PROMO CARD $

When you Buy $100 in Gift Cards.* OR

FREE 40 PROMO CARD $

When you Buy $150 in Gift Cards.*

MAYFAIRE TOWN CENTER

6863 Main Street Off Military Cutoff Road (910) 256-1211 MASSAGE | FACIALS | STRETCH

M–F 9a–10p | S 9a–9p | Su 9a–7p

MONKEY JUNCTION

5541 Carolina Beach Road Home Depot Shopping Center (910) 794-5252 MassageEnvy.com

*Promotional offer ends December 31, 2019. Gift cards must be purchased at a Massage Envy franchised location. Offer is not valid online, from a third-party retailer, or for previous purchases. Minimum $100 per transaction for a $25 Promotional Card or $150 per transaction for a $40 Promotional Card. Gift cards are not redeemable or refundable for cash or credit except where required by law. Promotional Cards expire on March 31, 2020, and are subject to restrictions on use (See Promotional Card for details). Rates and services may vary by franchised location and session. For a specific list of services, check with specific franchised location or see MassageEnvy.com. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2019 ME SPE Franchising, LLC.

BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR THESE UPCOMING

DEALS OF THE WEEK

COMING SOON

November 20 Marina Grill November 27 Edward Teach Brewery

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Wed, 5-8pm: Sample some of the most delicious wines you can try for free with optional $25 food pairing, designed specifically to go with each wine. Benny Hill Jazz always starts at 7 pm with his cool jazz styles. Sweet n Savory Cafe, 1611 Pavilion Pl.

Nov. 17, 2pm: Enjoy Sunday Funday by grabbing some friends, bar crawling around downtown and sampling Bloody Marys. Stop by the Husk our designated starting bar to pick up a voting card and head out on a Sunday Funday to try a Bloody Mary at all the participating bars. Once you are done, drop your voting card back where you began. Votes will be tallied up the next day and a winner declared. Entry gets you on the crawl, specials, giveaways, fun & a chance to win prizes. Participating bars are: Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, Cape Fear Wine & Beer, Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar, Tavern Law 1832, Hell’s Kitchen, Pour House, Varnish Ale & Spirits, Growler’s Tavern, Bar Local Pub & Pizzeria, The Husk, Duck and Dive, and Barbary Coast. They will have small and large versions available. Don’t forget to Sunday Funday responsibly. Cost: $5. Tickets at eventbrite.com.

PORT CITY GREAT BURGER CHALLENGE

In 30 mins, eat 48 ounces of burger meat with three toppings and fries! Beat it and we take care of the bill and put your face on the Wall of Glory! Fail, and straight to The Wall of Shame you go. Bring your stretchy pants and good luck! Offer is daily. 11am-11pm, Port City Burgers & Brews, 11 Market St.

JOHNNY’S CRAB SHACK AT SOUR BARN

Nov. 16, 6-9pm: Lil’ Johnny’s Crab Shack is BACK at The Sour Barn! Serving only the best seafood (and chicken) platters, tacos & sandwiches! Live music by Stray Local @ 7pm. The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

FALL DESSERT MARKET

Nov. 17 , noon-4pm: Shop desserts from local bakeries and dessert trucks at the Wilmington Fall Dessert Market. Waterline Brewing Company, 721 Surry St.

tours LITERARY HISTORY WALKING TOUR

Explore the rich culture of our talented Southern town with a 90-minute walking tour of the literary history of downtown Wilmington, NC. Visit “The Two Libraries.” Walk the streets of your favorite novels, and stand where Oscar Wilde did when he lectured here. Saturdays, 1:30pm, Old Books on Front. 249 N. Front St. brownpapertickets.com/event/1282390

BILLS’ BREW FOOD AT THE SOUR BARN

Nov. 17, 1:30-4:30pm: Sunday Funday with Bill’s Brew Food! Parked in the back lot, through our beer garden! Grab a tasty meal, a cold beer & watch the game! $4 slushies, NFL Sunday Ticket, Mimosa Bar! The Sour Barn, 7211 Market St.

GHOST WALK

DOWNTOWN BLOODY MARY BAR CRAWL

6:30-8:30pm. Costumed guides lead visitors through alleyways with tales of haunted

Join The n Rebellio Today ALLEY PATIO BAR IS OPEN! Live music every Thursday 7pm-10 pm and Saturday 6pm-9pm

• American comfort food, with a Southern twist • Handpicked bourbons and whiskeys • House-made barrel-aged cocktails • Excellent wine selection • 34 beers on draft Mon. 4pm-12am • Tues.-Thurs. 11:30am-12am Fri. & Sat. 11:30am-1am • Sun. 11:30am-12am

15 S. Front St. 910-399-1162 www.rebellionnc.com

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Wilmington. Nightly tours, 6:30pm/8:30pm.

Water and Market sts. RSVP rqd: 910-7941866. www.hauntedwilmington.com

BELLAMY MANSION

Guided tours start on the hour; self-guided tours start at any time. Mon. is only self-guided tours. Follow curved oyster-shell paths through lush Victorian garden, shaded by 150-yr.-old magnolia trees. See elegant main entrance surrounded by soaring columns and gleaming windows. Hear stories of Bellamies, as well as free and enslaved black artisans who built the home and crafted intricate details throughout the house. Adults $12; senior and military discount, $10; students, $6; children under 5, free. 503 Market St.

MASONBORO SHELLING TOUR

Explore Masonboro Island and discover the wonder of the Carolina coast. This tour option is ideal for families, birders, and nature enthusiasts. Masonboro Island is an 8.4-mile marine sanctuary island, renowned for its plant and wildlife diversity. Topics will include shell biology, native plant species, shorebirds, and barrier island ecology. Adult $45, child $25 RSVP: 910-200-4002. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours, 275 Waynick Blvd

OFF THE RECORD TOURS

Thurs., 6:30pm: CAM Gallery tours, led by museum staff, are sometimes irreverent and silly, but always provide a charming and engaging behind-the-scenes perspective on current exhibitions. But what if I’m really thirsty before the tour? Join us for happy hour

beforehand to loosen up your brain and chat about art. Brown Wing. CAM Members: Free, non-members. Museum admission. Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S. 17th St.

WALKING TOUR OF CAROLINA BEACH

Walking Tour of the Historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk meets at the Visitors Bureau Kiosk just south of the new Hampton Inn and features members of the Federal Point Historic Preservation Society leading a 50-minute tour into the past, answering questions like: Where did the “birth of the Shag” take place? Did you know there was a movie theater called The Wave on the Boardwalk? How long has Britt’s Donuts been on the Boardwalk, and has it always been in the same place? Why was the Red Apple so popular? Where was the largest dance floor south of Washington DC located?

Society asks for a $10 donation. Children under 12 tour free. Carolina Beach Board Walk, Cape Fear Blvd.

WEEKLY EXHIBITION TOURS

Cameron Art Museum: Explore, discuss and learn more about the artwork currently on view at CAM. Members: free. Museum admission all others. CAM, 3201 S. 17th St. www. cameronartmuseum.org

BEHIND THE SCENES GALLERY TALKS

Hear the stories behind the acquisition and selection of the artworks included in Stories in Print (on view Oct. 22, 2019 – Apr. 25, 2020), with CAM’s Chief Curator, Holly Tripman Fitzgerald. CAM Members: Free, Non-Members: Museum Admission. Brown Wing, CAM, 3201

S. 17th St. cameronartmuseum.org

support groups WILMINGTON PRIDE YOUTH GROUP

Grades 7-12: Wilmington Pride Youth Group is a safe space for youth who identify as LGBTQIA+ and their straight allies. An adult supervised, safe space for kids to talk about orientation, gender, racial equality, political consequences, religion, self care. A great opportunity to meet and socialize with peers from the greater Wilmington area. Meets Thurs., 7pm. Needed: youth facilitators, especially those who are trained to work with kids, and speakers to talk about important topics. wpyg2016@gmail.com.

ANXIETY/OCD SUPPORT GROUP

Group meets 1st & 3rd Thurs. of each month.

Pine Valley United Methodist Church, 3788 Shipyard Blvd. Bldg B. Christopher Savard, Ph.D., with Cape Fear Psychological Services, gives a presentation the 1st Thursday of each month. 3rd Thursday meeting is member led.

18+ welcome. 910-763-8134

LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP

Meets third Sat. ea. month. Free; drop-ins are welcome. Group provides participants an opportunity to receive introductory info about lupus, encourage the expression of concerns, provide an opportunity to share experiences, encourage and support positive coping strategies, and emphasize the importance of medical treatment. Guest speakers, DVD presentations and open group discussion. info@ lupusnc.org (877) 849-8271, x1. lupusnc.org.

NE Library, 1241 Military Cutoff Rd.

PFLAG

First Mon/mo. at UNCW, in the Masonboro Island Room #2010, 7pm.

MS SUPPORT GROUP

Those with Multiple Sclerosis, families and friends welcome. Meets 2nd Thursday each month, 7 p.m., at the New Hanover Rehabilitation Hospital, 1st floor conference room, 2131 S. 17th St. (behind the Betty Cameron Women’s Hospital). Sponsored by Greater Carolinas Chapter, National MS Society. Details: Anne (910) 232-2033 or Burt (910) 3831368. New Hanover Regional Medical Hospital, 2131 S. 17th St.

ARIES (Mar. 21–April 19)

If there are any potential Aries heroes or leaders or saviors out there, the coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to fully bloom and assert your practical magnificence. The lessons you have learned while improvising workable solutions for yourself are ripe to be applied to the riddles that are puzzling your tribe or group or gang. I want to let you know, however, that to achieve maximum effectiveness, you should be willing to do good deeds for people who may not be able to pay you back.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Every now and then I authorize you Libras to shed your polite, tactful personas and express the angst you sometimes feel but usually hide. That’s now! To egg you on, read this mischievous rant by Libran blogger Clary Gay (claryfightwood.tumblr.com): “We Libras are constantly thinking about how to make everyone else comfortable and happy. There’s not a minute going by when we’re not worrying about radiating a soothing and comforting aura so everyone can have a good time. If a Libra is cranky, it’s because they snapped! Because of some non-Libra who doesn’t appreciate them! If a Libra is mean to people, it’s their own damn fault!”

You’re entering a phase of your astrological cycle when it’s crucial that your receptivity be as robust as possible. To guide you in this delightful but perhaps challenging work, here are good questions for you to pose. 1. Do you know what help and support you need most, and are you brave and forthright enough to ask for it? 2. Is there any part of you, perhaps unconscious, that believes you don’t deserve gifts and blessings? 3. Do you diligently cultivate your capacity to be refreshed and restored? 4. Are you eagerly responsive when life surprises you with learning experiences and inspirations?

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Poet Robert Bly tells us that the door to the soul is unlocked. You don’t have to struggle through any special machinations to open it or go through it. Furthermore, the realm of the soul is always ready for you. Always! It harbors the precise treasure you need in order to be replenished and empowered. I bring this to your attention, Scorpio, because I think that during the next two weeks, you should abide as much as possible in the soul’s realm—the cornucopia of holy truths and ever-fresh riches.

“Many people will not be honest because they fear loss of intimacy and togetherness,” writes self-help author Henry Cloud. But the truth, he adds, is that “honesty brings people closer together,” because it “strengthens their identities.” Therein lies the tender paradox: “The more you realize your separate identities, the closer you can become.” Living according to this principle may not be as easy or convenient as being deceptive and covert, but it’s ultimately more gratifying. Henry Cloud concludes, “Telling loved ones what is really on your mind and telling others what you really think is the foundation of love.”

In my estimation, what you’ve experienced lately has been akin to a fermentation process. It’s as if you’re undergoing a transformation with resemblances to the way that grapes turn into wine or milk becomes yogurt or dough rises before being baked into bread. You may have had to endure some discomfort, which is the case for anything in the midst of substantial change. But I think you’ll ultimately be quite pleased with the results, which I expect will be ready no later than ten days after your birthday—and quite possibly sooner.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

Many books have been written about Joan of Arc, a 15th-century teenage peasant girl whose improbable ascent to military leadership, under the guidance of her divine visions, was crucial in France’s victory over the English. Among the many miraculous elements of her story was the fact that less than a year before she led troops into battle on horseback, she didn’t know how to ride a horse. She learned by riding around her father’s farm astride his cows. I foresee an equivalent marvel in your future, Capricorn. By this time next year, you will have developed an aptitude that might seem unimaginable now. (P.S. There’s evidence Joan was a Capricorn.)

“Maturity is having the ability to escape categorization,” said poet Kenneth Rexroth. That’s the opposite of the conventional wisdom. For many people, the process of growing up and becoming a seasoned adult means trying to fit in, to find one’s category, to be serious and steady and stable. Rexroth, on the other hand, suggested that when you fully ripen into your potentials, you transcend standard definitions; you don’t adhere to others’ expectations; you are uniquely yourself, outside and beyond all pigeonholes and classifications. The coming weeks will be an excellent time for you to practice and cultivate this sacred art.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

Is there an event from your past that would be empowering for you to remember in detail? Is there a neglected but still viable dream you could resurrect, thereby energizing your enthusiasm for the future? Are there old allies you’ve lost touch with but who, if you called on them, could provide you with just the boost you need? Is there a familiar pleasure you’ve grown numb to but could reinvigorate by visualizing the original reasons you loved it? The coming weeks will be a favorable time to meditate on these questions.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Catholic saint St. Francis (1181–1226) loved animals and the natural world.

According to one folkloric tale, he was once traveling on foot with several companions when they came upon a place where the trees were filled with birds.

Francis said, “Wait for me while I go preach to my sisters the birds.” He proceeded to do just that. The birds were an attentive audience for the duration of his sermon, apparently captivated by his tender tones. Seven centuries later, author Rebecca West offered a critique of the bird-whisperer. “Did St. Francis preach to the birds?” she asked. “Whatever for? If he really liked birds he would have done better to preach to the cats.” In the coming weeks, Virgo, I encourage you to do the metaphorical equivalent of preaching to both the birds and the cats.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

The “Divine Comedy” is one of history’s greatest literary works. Its author, Dante Alighieri, was 43 when he began writing the “Inferno,” the first part of his three-part masterpiece. Up until that time, he had published just one book and a few poems, and had also abandoned work on two unfinished books. Early on in the “Inferno”, the not-yet-renowned author presents a fictional scene in which he meets with the spirits of antiquity’s most famous authors: Virgil, Homer, Horace, Ovid, and Lucan. Those illustrious five tell Dante he is such an important writer that he ranks sixth, after them, in his excellence. I’m going to encourage you to dare indulging in behavior like Dante’s: to visualize and extol—and yes, even brag about—the virtues and skills that will ultimately be your signature contribution to this world.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

The Latin word for sea is “mare”. “Flustra” is the calm sea. “Undisonus” means “resounding with waves.” “Caeruleus” is the sea’s deep shade of blue, “aestus” is the tide, and “aequoreus” means “connected with the sea.” My hope is that as you meditate on these lyrical terms, you’ll be moved to remember the first lakes, rivers, and oceans you ever swam in. You’ll recall your time floating in your mother’s womb and your most joyous immersions in warm baths and hotsprings. Why? It’s a favorable time to seek the healing and rejuvenating powers of primal waters—both metaphorically and literally.

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Sam Bush 11/21

Mipso 1/17

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TICKETS ON SALE NOW! FOR TICKETS, VISIT BROOKLYNARTSNC.COM

CROSSWORD

Now booking Holiday partii

721 Surry Street Wilmington, NC 28401

910-557-BREW

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