SGN November 20, 2015 - Section 3

Seattle Gay News

Issue 47, Volume 43, November 20, 2015

Holiday Special Section Pacific Northwest Ballet presents Seattle premiere of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker ™

Pacific Northwest Ballet company dancers in the snow scene from George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™, choreography by George Balanchine © The George Balanchine Trust. PNB’s new production of The Nutcracker, featuring sets and costumes designed by Ian Falconer (Olivia the Pig) runs November 27 – December 28, 2015. More information at PNB.org – Photo © Angela Sterling.

Pike Place Market decked out for the holidays

Pike Place Market – Photo by Art Kuniyuki

Magic in the Market

Celebrate the holiday season at Magic in the Market on Saturday, November 28, 1-5pm.

Meet and take FREE photos with Santa. Decorate gingerbread cookies with your family in the Market Atrium Kitchen.

Delight in performances by the Figgy Pudding Caroling Teams, right under the Public Market Center clock and sign.

Enjoy Tiny’s Organic apple cider, indi chocolate’s hot chocolate and MarketSpice tea while you shop for locally made gifts.

At 5:00 pm, Santa will lead a countdown to the lighting of the 20-foot holiday tree and lights throughout the Market.

Join in the fun and the kick off to the holiday season! This event is free. No tickets required.

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Celebrating 41 Years!

Compiled by Justin Craig & Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writers ARTS/CRAFTS/GIFTS Pratt Fine Arts Center Holiday Art Sale. Nov. 20-29, 11am-7pm daily, except closed Thanksgiving Day. 1905 S. Main St. Pratt Fine Arts Center’s annual Holiday Art Sale showcases an exceptional selection of art and unique gifts made by our extended community of artists working in glass, jewelry, wood, textiles, sculpture, photography, painting, printmaking, and more. Free and open to the public, proceeds from this 10-day sale support Pratt Fine Arts Center, the most dynamic, year-round, multi-disciplinary arts center in the Pacific Northwest, as well as our incredible roster of local artists! FREE admission. www.pratt.org.

26th Anniversary Seattle Area Support Groups & Community Center Holiday Tree (& Greenery) Sale. Nov. 27-Dec. 23, 9am-9pm. SASGCC, 303 17th Ave. E. www.sasgcc.org; 206-322-2437.

Seattle Sampling Artists Studio Tour.

Dec. 4-6, 12 & 19. Don’t miss the Seattle Sampling Artists Studio Tour – celebrating its 26th year. Nearly 50 of Seattle’s awardwinning and professional crafts people will be showing at nine locations throughout the greater Seattle area. This free, self-guided tour offers holiday shoppers a relaxed and intimate opportunity to meet the artists in their own environments. First Choice Friday: Dec. 4, 4-9pm; and Sat-Sun, Dec. 5 & 6, 10am-5pm. Second Chance Saturdays: Dec. 12 & 19, 10am-5pm. Times and locations vary. A map and a complete listing of all the artists and their locations are available for download at www.seattlesampling. com. Shop local this holiday season and support Seattle’s vibrant artist community.

Seward Park Clay Studio Winter Holiday Show & Sale. Dec. 4-24. 5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S. Preview Night PARTY Dec. 4th, 6:30-9:30pm, is a great

chance to get the pick of the best ceramics in town, with over 40 artists represented in the sale. $10 suggested donation at the door: light food, drink and fun. From Dec. 5-24 the sale is FREE and open to the public: Mon-Fri 11am-7pm; Sat-Sun 10am-6pm.

Shop for amazing holiday presents while supporting one of the Northwest’s cultural gems. What is on view and available for purchase includes an impressive range of work: including sculpture, majolica, functional stoneware, delicate porcelains, raku, wood-fire, wall hangings. Even if you aren’t in the market for purchasing (and prices are remarkably affordable!), just surveying the range of expression in clay is worth a trip to this event. www.sewardparkart.org.

Arboretum Foundation’s “Gifts Galore” Holiday Sale. Dec. 5, 10am-2pm.

Washington Park Arboretum Graham Visitors Center, 2300 Arboretum Dr. E. Don’t miss this popular annual holiday sale. It features an expanded selection of natureinspired gifts from the Arboretum Shop, including local, seasonal specialty items.

You’ll also find a fabulous selection of handmade wreaths and centerpieces, and unique fresh-cut greens donated by local gardeners and the Arboretum staff. Free hot drinks: Shoppers can also warm up with complimentary beverages, including ZOKA Arboretum Blend coffee, hot chocolate, and cider. All sales benefit the Washington Park Arboretum. 206-325-4510; www.arboretumfoundation.org.

PLEASE DONATE YOUR GREENS: The staff will be accepting donations of fresh-cut greens at the Graham Visitors Center any time of day from Monday, November 30 through Thursday, December 3. Drop-off will be at the west side of the building, alongside Arboretum Drive.

Look for the drop-off sign posts. We’ll be posting a wish list for donated greens soon.

Thank you!

INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING? If you’d like to help out at this event, please contact Volunteer Resources Manager Megan Meyer at mmeyer@arboretumfoundation.org; 206-325-4510.

Visit us online www.sgn.org

South Park Arts 11th Annual Art Under $100 Holiday Sale. Dec. 12, 2-8pm.

Seattle Design Center, 5701 6th Ave. S. Artists from South Park and beyond will knock your stockings off with original work not seen at a typical holiday sale.

This year, over 70 amazing artists will showcase a diverse array of art, including painting, sculpture, neon, jewelry, clothing, photography, glass, letterpress, and more.

See website for details. And everything’s affordable with nothing priced over $100.

FREE entry, except $20 VIP entry 1-2pm.

Enjoy food trucks. Free covered parking.

All proceeds go to South Park Arts. www. southparkarts.org.

2015 Native Art Mart. Dec. 12 & 13, 10am-4pm. Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center in Discover Park, 5011 Bernie Whitebear Way. Over 30 authentic Native arts and crafts vendors. Beautiful work by Native American artists. Clothing, jewelry, woodworking, drums, art prints, and so much more. Many styles and tribes represented. Affordable, unique and fun! Enjoy salmon lunch, Indian tacos. Native dance groups at 1pm. Find great holiday gifts at the United Indians Art Mart. Funding received from vendor and food sales go to the United Indians Elder Meals and Community Program.

The Vera Project and Hollow Earth Radio Host 8th Annual DIY Holiday Fair. Dec. 13, 11am-4pm. Vera Project, Seattle Center grounds north of Key Arena near Warren Ave. & Republican St. The 8th Annual DIY Holiday Fair will be a marketplace for independent music and crafts, along with vinyl DJs and interactive screenprinting with independent Northwest record, CD, and cassette labels, screenprinted art, local artists, crafts-makers, and designers selling their wares throughout Vera’s space along with the return of the Vera Vintage Corner. Over 35 vendors will be participating. Audio ambiance will be provided by Hollow Earth Radio DJs and folks are encouraged to come with empty stom-

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achs to enjoy baked goods and food truck offerings. Bring a blank shirt, sweatshirt, or tote bag and pick from an array of Vera’s in-house designs for the Vera Screenprinters’ annual Bring-It Screen-It! This is the perfect opportunity to find a one-of-a-kind gift just in time for the holidays. www. theveraproject.org; https://www.facebook. com/events/1480868822222438/ The Handmade Showroom Pop-Up at Pacific Place, 600 E Pine St., 3rd floor, is a (currently) temporary pop-up shop featuring finely made work by over 70 local artists, makers, and designers from the Pacific Northwest. The showroom is open Mon.Sat., 10am-8pm & Sun., 11am-7pm through December 2015. For more information, visit http://TheHandmadeShowroom.com HOLIDAY EVENTS Festival of Trees. Nov. 21-Dec. 2. Fairmont Olympic Hotel, 411 University St. An annual holiday favorite – come gaze at a display of beautifully decorated trees during the 38th Festival of Trees. Each tree is accompanied by a photo and story of a courageous Seattle Children’s patient. The dinner and auction on Nov. 21 works with the Autism Guild to raise money for the Seattle Children’s Autism Center and Uncompensated Care at Seattle Children’s. Trees will be on display for about two weeks. www. seattlefestivaloftrees.com.

Sheraton Seattle Hotel’s 23rd Annual Gingerbread Village – “May the Holidays Be With You.” Nov. 24-Jan. 3.

1400 6th Ave. at Pike St. Inspired by scenes from Star Wars movies, Jedi of all ages will marvel at this year’s larger-than-life gingerbread creations. Since 1992, the Sheraton’s expert culinary team has partnered with top local architecture firms to design, build and delight the crowds with intricate, holiday-themed gingerbread displays. This unforgettable event keeps more than 150,000 visitors coming back year after year and is see Holiday events page 8

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by Albert Rodriguez SGN A&E Writer As it begins to look a lot like Christmas, the time to shop and partake of this celebratory season lands upon us. To avoid the long department store cashier lines and massive mall crowds, and to truly savor the wintry festivities beyond gift buying, allow me to recommend something that offers a bit more comfort and joy; a weekend escape to Victoria. The British Columbian city, just a few hours from Seattle by ferry or even quicker by seaplane, goes all out for the holidays. In addition to colorful light displays and snowy decorations along the waterfront and downtown, there’s a lengthy list of events, activities, and live performances in or around Victoria that will put you in the holiday mood, plus the surrounding beauty of mountains, pine tree forests, and the Inner Harbour mixed with crisp, cool Northwest air makes for a great spot to spend a couple of days between now and New Year’s, whether you want to shop or just relax.

Here’s a sampling of things to experience in Victoria in November, December and early January, and travel tips should you decide to head up for a weekend. Go to tourismvictoria.com for further trip planning information.

TRAVELING BY FERRY OR SEAPLANE Santa may have a sleigh and reindeer, but we have the Victoria Clipper. Seattle travelers can enjoy year-round ferry service between the two cities, getting you to each destination in under 3 hours. From the Seattle Waterfront on Pier 69, through the winter season, the Clipper departs daily at 8 a.m. (10:45 a.m. arrival) and returns from Victoria’s Inner Harbour at 5 p.m. (7:45 p.m. arrival), allowing travelers to stay overnight or go for a daytrip. If the day is clear, you’ll be treated to lush scenery on the short voyage, as many of the seats on the ferry are window-side; if weather permits, the open-air upper deck will be accessible for unobstructed viewing. Snacks and light meals are available for purchase, and Caffe Vita coffee is usually offered complimentary. Passengers should plan on arriving to either terminal at least 1 hour before their departure time; boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure. To book reservations, visit www.clippervacations.com. For a speedier trek to Victoria, Kenmore Air flies directly into Inner Harbour from Lake Union by seaplane, or to nearby Nanaimo from Boeing Field by wheeled aircraft; each flight clocks in under an hour. Upon landing in Victoria, the airline extends passengers complimentary shuttle service to hotels in the downtown area. For inquiries, or to book flights, go to kenmoreair.com.

ACCOMMODATIONS On my most recent trip to Victoria, last December, I fulfilled a bucket list item to stay at the famed Fairmont Empress, and it didn’t disappoint. Opened in 1908, this gorgeous hotel has hosted everyone from world royalty to political dignitaries to major entertainers. The 477 guest rooms, including one or two bedroom suites and junior suites, are all elegantly furnished with top of the line amenities, such as flatscreen TVs with cable programming and Sony Playstation, high quality linens and duvets, Keurig coffeemakers and tea kettle with re-

Fairmont Empress – Photo by Brandon Godfrey/ Wikimedia Commons

gional gourmet coffee and Fairmont’s signature teas, terry robes, and Le Labo bath essentials. On-site fitness center, indoor heated pool, whirlpool, and free WiFi are also available for guests to use at their leisure. The Indian-themed Bengal Lounge is a cocktail destination for both visitors and locals, an elegant bar with classy decor, high ceilings, and daily curry buffet.

For the holidays, the exterior of the Fairmont Empress’ main entrance is illuminated in greens and reds with icicle lights laced around its ivy-covered windows with a popup ice-skating rink on its front lawn. Inside, a giant Christmas tree is decorated in the grand lobby, and throughout the hotel ­– mainly its ground floor, where you’ll find a selection of restaurants and retail boutiques – visitors are welcomed with the sights of wreaths, holly, and other seasonal items.

If choosing the Fairmont Empress for your stay, consider a bit of indulgence by reserving a Fairmont Gold room, which provides guests with a hotel within a hotel experience that includes personal concierge, exclusive lounge with complimentary daily breakfast, evening canapes, snacks, and refreshments, and signature rooms.

packages are available at laurelpoint.com.

HOLIDAY MUST SEES AND DOS, IN OR AROUND VICTORIA Believe me, the list of holiday offerings in Victoria, or nearby, is long. But here are five that I recommend.

Santa Claus Parade / Truck Light Parade / Lighted Ship Parade November 28, 2015 and December 5, 2015 in Downtown Victoria Do you love a parade? Well, there are three of them happening in Victoria to celebrate the holiday season, beginning with the Island Farms 2015 Santa Claus Parade on November 28 (5:45 p.m.) that includes appearances by Santa, the Grinch, and other known characters, plus customized floats that wind their way through town. Starting point is Government and Belleville, ending point is at Capitol Iron. On December 5 (5:45 p.m.), the IEOA Truck Light Parade begins at Ogden Point and weaves through Oak Bay and downtown Victoria, before passing through View Royal and Langford with a convoy of decorated trucks. Immediately following, around 7 p.m., is the Light Ship Parade that features a series of boats festooned with colorful lights that will glide through Inner Harbour. Afterwards, you can stop by the Christmas Market with local artisan vendors, food trucks, and beverage stands selling both non-alcoholic

Christmas in Old Victoria / Ghosts of Christmas Past walking tours December 6-26, 2015 at select meeting locations John Adams is a Victoria-based historian who organizes and leads walking tours around the city year-round. This time of year, he switches hats – literally – and guides people of all ages on a Christmasthemed tour through the streets of Old Town, sharing intriguing stories and pointing out landmarks, merchants, and places that have a special connection with the holidays. Dressed in a vintage cloak, festive scarf, and top hat, Adams looks the part of a master storyteller, and luckily for everyone, he is. Those wanting something a tad spookier might consider his seasonal ghostly tour that includes tales of the legend of Christmas Hill, the ghosts of Helmcken Alley, Victoria’s first documented ghost sighting – Adelaide Griffin at Christmas, in 1861 – and the Christmas Eve assassination on the steps of the Roman Catholic Cathedral back in 1890. For additional information, or to reserve a tour, go to discoverthepast.com.

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Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase Now thru January 3, 2016 at Inn at Laurel Point These aren’t your ordinary gingerbread houses, slapped together with graham crackers and cake frosting. Nope, these are hand-crafted pieces of art designed by professional and amateur chefs, carefully assembled and displayed collectively at the Inn at Laurel Point, a waterfront hotel within walking distance of the Inner Harbour and Victoria’s city center. Not only is this a sweet treat for adults and children alike – to view these remarkable and not-so-traditional gingerbread houses up close – but it also raises money for a great cause, Habitat for Humanity. Since its inception, the event has raised $87,000 for the charitable organization. You don’t have to be a guest of the Inn to see the gingerbread exhibit and admission is free; directions and room rates/

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Magic of Christmas Now thru January 6, 2016 at Butchart Gardens A half-hour drive from downtown Victoria is the world famous Butchart Gardens, a designated National Historical Site of Canada. These immaculate gardens cover 55 acres of land with hundreds upon hundreds of plants, flowers and trees in a multitude of varieties, in addition to fountains, statues, creeks, ornamental birds, and an indoor carousel, all cared for and owned by the Butchart-Ross family for more than 100 years. To celebrate the holidays, the gardens are magically transformed into a winter wonderland with an open-air ice skating rink, live carolers, illuminated trees, and a 12 Days of Christmas interactive display.

Complete the visit with a cup of cocoa at the Coffee Shop, or sit down to a meal at The Blue Poppy Restaurant, or a lovely and cozy dinner inside The Dining Room; each restaurant is currently featuring seasonal favorites on their menus. For directions, hours, and admission prices go to butchartgardens.com.

beverages and boozy drinks. For more information on each of the parades, visit tourismvictoria.com.

British Columbia Parliament Buildings all lit up December 3, 2015 thru January 1, 2016 at the British Columbia Parliament Buildings The iconic parliament buildings in Victoria are a beautiful sight year-round, but during the holiday season they lend themselves to perfect photo ops. The facade, dome, and arched windows are brightly lit with thousands of energy-efficient LED lights, as are the fences at the front of the provincial government quarters, noticeable from far away and stunning up close.

Located across the street from the Fairmont Empress and a quick stroll from the ferry terminal, a viewing of the parliament buildings will cost you absolutely nothing.

Guided or self-guided tours of the buildings are free and allow visitors to explore the interior of these structures. Log onto leg.bc.ca for hours and meeting locations for the guided tours.

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FREE to the public, although donations to the Northwest Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation are accepted and appreciated. Over the past two decades, the Gingerbread Village has raised more than $756,000 for the JDRF. The Sheraton Seattle’s staff donates more than 1,000 volunteer hours for this event and the displays use an estimated 1,200 lbs. of dough, 800 lbs. of icing, 200 lbs. of white chocolate, 250 lbs. of almond paste and hundreds of pounds of candy.

Macy’s Holiday Parade. Nov. 27, 9am.

Lead by Santa on his magical sleigh and followed by festive floats, costumed characters, and local community groups, the parade steps off at 7th Ave. & Pine St., and travels west on Pine St. to 5th Ave., south on 5th Ave. to University St., west on University St. to 4th Ave., north on 4th Ave. to Macy’s at 4th Ave. & Pine St. Macy’s Holiday Star Lighting Ceremony and Westlake Center Christmas Tree Lighting – followed by a fireworks display (weather permitting). Nov. 27, 5pm. 4th Ave. & Pine St. With live entertainment leading up to the events, including singer Kimberley Nichole (from NBC’s “The Voice”), The 5th Avenue Theatre, Seahawks tight end Luke Willson and more.

Argosy Cruise Christmas Ship. Nov. 27-Dec. 23. Holiday traditions in the Northwest start on the water with Argosy Cruises. The Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship festival is a holiday celebration that has been a Pacific Northwest tradition since 1949. Every year, the Argosy Christmas Ship sails to different Puget Sound waterfront communities, over 45 in total. Choirs onboard

sing 20-minute performances to these communities, all broadcast via state-of-the-art speaker system. On shore, thousands of people gather around roaring bonfires anticipating the arrival of the Christmas Ship.

For schedule, visit www.argosycruises. com.

Seattle Center Winterfest. Nov. 27Dec. 31. Seattle Center Armory, Fisher Pavilion and Seattle Center grounds. A wonderland of sparkling lights, child-sized diversions and spirited entertainment brightens Seattle Center through the twilight of the year. Stroll the grounds and you’ll discover Seattle Center Winterfest. Winterfest Ice Rink returns, along with Saturday ice sculpting and lively weekend performances at Seattle Center Armory.

Visit Seattle Center Armory, all dressed for the season, and you’ll find the enchanting Winter Train & Village, fresh food and drink offered at Seattle Center Armory merchants, and inspiring student showcases. The festival opens with The Dickens Carolers and rings in the New Year with spectacular fireworks and live music by premiere dance band The Machine. For a complete schedule of events and activities, visit http://www.seattlecenter.com/winterfest/ FREE admission.

Woodland Park Zoo Wildlights. Nov. 27-Jan. 3 (except 12/24 & 25), 5:30-8:30pm nightly. Enter through the Woodland Park Zoo West Entrance on Phinney Ave. N. between N. 55th & N. 56th Sts. Over 600,000 energy-efficient LED lights illustrate the paths of Woodland Park Zoo with dazzling displays of wild animals and exotic destinations, including “African Water Hole,” “Jungle Lights,” and “Northern Lights.”

Ride the Historic Carousel (additional fee) and enjoy the Holiday Beer and Wine Garden at the Rain Forest Food Pavilion (21+).

Keep an eye out for the man in red!

Santa will be stopping by WildLights Fridays through Sundays prior to Christmas as well as December 21-23. Guests can visit the Reindeer Shelter at 5:45pm to see Santa greet his reindeer and their keeper and then head over to Santa’s Camp to meet jolly old Saint Nick and take a commemorative Santa photo.

While most of the zoo’s animals will be nestled in for the night, a few creatures will still be stirring at the Day Exhibit, which showcases reptiles, amphibians and a tree kangaroo, and in the Adaptions Building, which houses sloths, Indian flying foxes, Komodo dragons and meerkats. In addition, the zoo’s birds of prey, porcupine, and other animals will make scheduled appearances at the Raptor Center Fridays through Sundays.

Admission: Adults (13+) $9.95; Children (3-12) $6.95; Toddlers (2 & under) free. Available online at zoo.org/wildlights or at zoo gates during regular hours. Nightof-event tickets will be sold at the zoo’s West Entrance, if not sold out. WildLights is a rain-or-shine event – there will be no ticket refunds. www.

Magic in the Market. Nov. 28, 1-5pm.

Pike Place Market. Celebrate the holiday season at Magic in the Market! Meet and take FREE photos with Santa. Decorate gingerbread cookies with your family in the Market Atrium Kitchen. Get a belly full of laughs from performances by the Figgy Pudding Caroling Teams, right under the Public Market Center clock and sign. Enjoy Tiny’s Organic apple cider, indi chocolate’s hot chocolate and MarketSpice tea while you shop for locally made gifts. At 5pm, Santa will lead a countdown to the lighting of the 20-foot holiday tree and lights throughout the Market. Join in the fun and the kick off to the holiday season! This event is free. No tickets required.

Providence O’Christmas Trees. Nov. 30, 4-8pm. Westin Hotel, Grand Ballroom, 1900 5th Ave. Enjoy a display of artfully decorated Christmas trees by various designers in the Pacific Northwest. All will be auctioned off for charity and everyone is welcome to enjoy the beautiful trees.

Fremont Festivus. Dec. 4, 5 & 6. 12/4: Lenin Lighting at 5pm with Santa, traditional Festivus games, hot beverages and treats and live music from Ricky Gene Powell & Acoustic Laboratory; First Friday Art Walk & Holiday Bazaar, 6-9pm.

12/5: Pop-Up Entertainment from 11am5pm. Rocket Re-Launch at 5pm with Santa, games, give-aways and live music by Blackjack Kerouac. 12/6: Fremont Holiday Market on N 34th St. west of PCC, 11am4pm. Fremocentrist.com/Festivus.php Great Figgy Pudding Street Corner Caroling Competition. Dec. 4, 6-8:30pm.

Westlake Park neighborhood on Pine St. between 3rd and 7th Aves. Join us for one of Seattle’s most magical and festive nights!

This heart-warming tradition attracts nearly 10,000 people every year to enjoy holiday music and raise funds for a great organization. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as dozens of caroling teams sing their hearts out along Pine St. The top teams then compete in a sing-off on the Figgy Main Stage. Every year the competition draws thousands of people to the Westlake Center to raise money for the Pike Market Senior Center and Downtown Food Bank. www.pikemarketseniorcenter.org.

Saint Nick’s Holiday Open House.

Dec. 5 & 6. The wineries of Woodinville Wine Country will open their doors from 12-5pm for the annual Saint Nicholas Day Open House. Guests will have the opportunity to taste wines from exclusive boutique wineries as well as special selections from a few of Woodinville’s more well-known

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participants. This is a unique and festive holiday event where you can discover new wineries, meet the winemakers and learn about present offerings and future releases.

If you plan to visit many of the wineries, for your safety and the safety of others, please bring a designated driver along. Designated drivers will be allowed entry to the wineries without a booklet. Sat & Sun check-in location: Armstrong Family Winery. General admission: $65 Saturday and Sunday; $55 Sunday only.

Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets. com/event/2245823; 1-800-838-3006.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle. Dec. 31 at midnight. Watch FREE from the ground or in the heated comfort of the observation deck. Tickets are available now and can be purchased at www.spaceneedle.com.

LGBT COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS “Light the Night: An LGBTQ Hanukkah.” Dec. 9, 6:45-8:45pm. Calamus Auditorium at Gay City, 517 E. Pike St. Join Kolenu, Seattle’s Jewish LGBTQ group, for their seventh annual Hanukkah celebration! Enjoy tasty latkes, colorful dreidels, music, and a beautiful candle lighting symbolizing both the miracle of Hanukkah and our affirmation that great leadership and community action will prevail against oppression. FREE and open to the community. Allies, friends, and family welcome!

RSVP to brooke@hilleluw.org. This is an all-ages event.

Auntie Mame. Dec. 10, 7:30pm. AMC Pacific Place Cinema, 600 Pine St. Celebrate the season with Three Dollar Bill Cinema when Auntie Mame, the beloved 1958 film starring the incomparable Rosalind Russell, returns for one night only, a “Homo for the Holidays” tradition! Always armed with a colorful dress and an acerbic quip, the flamboyant, vibrant Mame Dennis (Russell) is an unconventional socialite from the Roaring Twenties. When her young orphan nephew comes to live in her madcap party pad, Mame takes him under her wing for an adventure in living life to its fullest. Tickets: $13 general; $9 for Three Dollar Bill Cinema members. This is an all-ages event. Join us early for a pre-film soirée from 6:30-7:15pm ... film starts at 7:30pm sharp! www.threedollarbillcinema. org.

“Snowball! – Express Yourself.” Dec. 12, 7pm. Bertha Knight Landes Room, City Hall, 5th Ave. at Cherry St. Ingersoll Gender Center’s annual holiday party and fundraiser. Enjoy music, food, drink and friends! It’s a celebration! Tickets: $25 individual in advance and at the door; $185 table of 8 by advance registration only. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/2461694.

“Pictures With Santa. Dec. 12, 8pmmidnight. The Cuff Complex, 1533 13th Ave. Seattle Men in Leather’s annual holiday event allows members of the community to get an individual or family portrait with a hunky Santa and his elves and reindeer. The portraits are professionally printed and distributed immediately following the photo shoot. The suggested donation is $10 per print. All proceeds from the event will go to SML’s current beneficiary, Seattle Area Support Groups (SASG). www. seattlemeninleather.org.

“First Annual WEA-LGBTQ Caucus and Community Calendar Holiday Party.” Dec. 15, 6-8pm. Washington Education Association, 32032 Weyerhauser Way, Federal Way. When your students (or chilsee Holiday events page 18

Celebrating 41 Years!

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by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Whether or not you like to shop in a store for holiday gift buying or go through an online retailer, time is ticking and the holiday season is fast approaching. We all know a friend or family member – maybe it’s you – who are master gift givers. They always seem to get it right. However, for many people hunting for the perfect gift can be stressful. Seattle Gay News is here to help! Here is a list of items that will make great gifts this Christmas: Cardboard iPad TV Stand: If you’re like me then most of your friends watch TV on their iPad. Still, there is just something

nostalgic and comforting for a great many over 35-years-old crowd when it comes to remembering cranking that old school TV dial in search for your favorite show. Now you can have both! The Cardboard iPad

TV Stand is a recycled cardboard stand that gives your iPad the look of a retro TV, recreating the golden days of tuning in with family. This product, designed by Luis Rodrigalvarez could be yours to give for just $30 online.

Mixed-Tape Glasses (Set of 6): We’ve found the perfect gift for a friend who throws the majority of house or holiday parties you will attend this year! For $50 you can gift said friend a set of six MixedTape glasses that are designed to be personalized by house guests who simply write their name on the memo line of the old cassette tape design that appears on each glass.

Toaster Grilled Cheese Bags: Look-

ing for the perfect White Elephant gift?

Need to send your college friend of nephew who just moved into his first apartment a practical yet affordable present for Christmas? Then the $10 Toaster Grilled Cheese

Bags are for you. These pouches let you pop a cheese sandwich into the toaster for perfect grilling – no pre-heating the pan, waiting to flip the sandwich, or laborious clean up afterward. Simply lift the pouch from the toaster using the integrated handles and slide your sandwich out onto your plate. It also works for grilling pitas, heating leftover pizza and more. The bags are coated with Teflon™, which is heat resistant and non-stick, so your cheese won’t burn or be stuck to the bag.

the walk, and makes it easy for anyone to paint their own canvas or leather shoes, no matter how old or new they are. The waterproof paint has been lab tested and exceeds 100,000 dry flex repetitions without chipping, cracking, or losing color.

DIY Smartphone Projector: This is the perfect gift for people who always seem to say, “Hey, watch this!” and show you a video of someone making a fool of themselves in a video uploaded to social media.

This projector, which costs around $32, accommodates any phone up to 3 x 5.5 inches and displays your videos, photos, or text on the wall for all to see by simply sliding the back compartment in and out to focus the image, then let the glass lens do its magnifying work – without the need to connect to a power source. The easy-to-assemble corrugated cardboard structure offers two slots for speakers or a phone charger, so you won’t run out of juice halfway through a YouTube marathon.

Footwelt Mini Self-Balancing 2 Wheel Scooter with LED Light: Okay, so we’ll be the first to admit that $365 is a lot for a gift, but this gift will totally blow away anyone who you buy it for – or makes a great gift to yourself if you’ve been less naughty and more nice this year. Footwelt T1, two-wheel auto balancing electric scooter, giving a much more stable ride and a faster response, making it safer and easier to control. The turning radius can be zero, which means that it can be operated in a very narrow space, reaching almost every possible place where people can go.

You can also stand still on it and even turn 360 degree in a spot. Just step on, you will be able to ride it. Two wheels, two motors, with double balancing systems keeping you in balance. It accelerates by simply applying pressure with the front your feet. It carries two driver motors within the wheels that can be controlled with both feet individually for easy turns, rotation, acceleration and smooth breaking.

Sneaker Customization Kit: Sometimes you find that shoe that is the perfect fit, perfect price – but not the perfect color or look. The Sneaker Customization Kit is a great gift for the artist in your life and the shoe lover too! For just $35 this freestyle kit packs everything you need to walk

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The Ultimate Beard Haircare Pack: In the year of the Lumbersexual comes the $39.95 Ultimate Beard Haircare Pack. All natural facial haircare set, featuring beard oil, whisker wash and mustache wax.

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From RuPaul to Kylie, these holiday albums will put you in a festive mood “O Holy Night,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” More on the modern side are “Tinsel and Lights,” “Happy Xmas (War is Over),” and “Shake Up Christmas.”

You need something to jam to while you’re decorating that tree, right?

of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” “The Christmas Song,” and a popular standard, as evidenced by its many appearances this year on holiday records, “O Holy Night.” If traveling somewhere in the weeks ahead, this will be a treat to listen to on the way.

Today is Christmas – LeAnn Rimes Country star LeAnn Rimes dazzles on her second holiday-themed record with a set of seasonal favorites and original entries. Those powerful pipes of hers go to work on “Little Drummer Boy,” “We Need a Little Christmas,” and “Auld Lang Syne,” and they blend wonderfully on duets with Gavin DeGraw (“Celebrate Me Home”) and Aloe Blacc (“That Spirit of Christmas”). When it’s time to make your Christmas tree run, listen to this on the drive.

Braxton Family Christmas – The Braxtons Oh, yes they did! The Braxton sisters – Toni, Tamar, Trina, Tracy, Towanda – have teamed up to release a Christmas album that sounds more sultry than it oughta be, but I wouldn’t expect anything different from these R&B divas. The girls re-touch a few classics, including an a cappella version of “O Holy Night” and “Last Christmas,” and a suave take on “Under My Christmas Tree” featuring their brother Michael Braxton. Wine, candlelight, and this album = stay-in night on Christmas Eve.

Kylie Christmas – Kylie Minogue Pop singer Kylie Minogue finally puts out a seasonal album, nearly 30 years into

by Albert Rodriguez SGN A&E Writer Rain or snow, the holiday season is here!

And with each year comes a slew of seasonal music ranging from amazing to pitiful, and everything in between. Here are eight newly released holiday albums that might give your tree decorating party, shopping trip, or cozy night by the fire a little boost.

Slay Belles – RuPaul Singing isn’t one of RuPaul’s strong suits, but sassiness is. And she infuses much of it into a 20-track collection of playful, non-traditional holiday tunes, from “Merry Christmas, Mary” to “Christmas Cookies” to an interlude titled “Do It For-

ever, Daddy.” The reality TV show hostess surprises nicely on two numbers, “Brand New Year” featuring Siedah Garrett and a collaboration with LGBT performer Big Freedia and Ellis Miah called “Jingle Dem Bells.” If you’re planning to throw a boozy holiday bash, preferably a kitschy affair (i.e. ugly sweater party), I suggest this musical accompaniment.

Christmas in Tahoe – Train Available exclusively on Amazon, this 15-song set by Grammy-winning group Train is sprinkled with lots of good cheer.

Rarely is the Hawaiian classic “Mele Kalikimaka” included on seasonal recordings, though it fits perfectly into this collection of yuletide tunes, including “This Christmas,”

her career. The result is a fun, good sounding two-disc set that mixes classics – “Let It Snow,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” – with newer material, from “Cried Out Christmas” to “White December.” Minogue shines best on a trio of duets: “Christmas Wrapping” with Iggy Pop, “Only You” with James Corsden, and “1000 Degrees” with sister Dannii Minogue. If not for a gift, Kylie Christmas makes a great stocking stuffer for a true fan.

Magnolias & Mistletoe – Marc Broussard Singer-songwriter Marc Broussard pours his heart and soul into 10 songs on his first holiday album. His version of “The First Noel” is solid, as are his interpretations of “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Hark the Herald Angel Sings,” and “Angels We Have Heard on High.” The Lousiana native, whose music is often described as “Bayou Soul,” further satisfies with great renditions

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It’s a Holiday Soul Party – Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings

November 20, 2015

Want some funk with that fruitcake?

Well, leave it to Grammy-nominated soul ensemble Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings to give the holidays a good kick in the pants.

The group includes a few usual suspects on the 11-track record, such as “White Christmas,” “Silver Bells,” and “Silent Night,” but do their own thing on “Funky Little Drummer Boy,” “Ain’t No Chimneys in the Projects,” and “Big Bulbs.” This album should put a little swing in your par-tay!

MercyMe, It’s Christmas – MercyMe A delightful new holiday album comes from Adult Contemporary Christian band MercyMe, who impress on 11 songs, most notably on an uplifting, Coldplay-esque rendition of “Joy” and a delicate arrangement of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”

Well-executed interpretations of “Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas,” “Go Tell It On the Mountain.” and “Do You Hear What I Hear?” are also featured on the recording, which is worth a listen.

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Celebrating 41 Years!

Best holiday travel destinations

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Sometimes the best gift you can give yourself – and those you love – is quick getaway during the holiday season. While some might dream of going south to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico or Palm Springs, California for some fun in the sun, many of us don’t have the coins or the paid vacation time to getaway, getaway – so quick holiday trips around the Pacific Northwest will have to do! Luckily for us all there are plenty of amazing destinations during the holidays to relax, rest, and recharge. Here’s a list of a few places you can go that will keep you coming back for more: Leavenworth, WA: A short (2 hours 16 minutes) drive away from Seattle towards the middle of the state through the Cascades (voted as one of the most scenic drives in the states) will land you in Washington state’s very own German Town: Leavenworth. In the winter, the roads are kept clear, though you will want to check the road reports before heading out (www. wsdot.com/traffic/passes). The annual Christmas Lighting Festival is a wonderful introduction or reintroduction to little Bavaria in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

“The first three full weekends in December are filled to the brim with holiday cheer and over half a million Christmas lights,” say officials at www.Leavenworth. org.

“On Friday evenings, live musical performances of your favorite Christmas songs

fill the streets, interrupted briefly at 4:30 p.m. for the arrival of St. Nickolaus at the Front Street Gazebo. On Saturdays and Sundays the festivities kick into full gear at 12:00 p,m. with the arrival of Santa and costumed holiday characters in a march from the Festhalle to the Gazebo!”

Great food can be found in any one of the many restaurants situated in the village and lodging that ranges from less than $100 a night up to more than $400 a night can be found at www.Hotel.com.

Victoria, BC: Many Seattleites know that Victoria is a unique blend of old world charm and new world experiences. As an island destination, Victoria offers visitors an escape from the hurried world. But what some may not know is that Victoria, BC has long been a Christmas holiday destination.

Boasting the mildest climate in Canada, Victoria is green and beautiful year-round (that certainly helps!). But come Christmas time, Victoria transforms into what one might imagine Santa’s North Pole would look like. According to www.TourismVictoria.com/Christmas, the island is your go-to place for fine dining, exquisite hotel stays, and Christmas shopping.

Getting to Victoria, BC isn’t the easiest from Seattle, but it is no doubt one of the most scenic and relaxing. If you want to take your car, you can take the Black Ball from Port Angeles to Victoria or from Tsawwassen BC to Swartz Bay. But the easiest way is to book your seat on a Clipper Ferry at www.ClipperVacations.com (be sure to check out their package Ferry and

Christmas drink recipes

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor

Christmas and cocktails go hand in hand – or double-fist depending on how annoyed you are with relatives, ha! Aside from the regular unwritten laws of not drinking too much to embarrass yourself at the holiday Christmas Party for work and remembering that when you’re tipsy it is not the appropriate time to tell a family member or fair-weather friend “what I really think of you is” the occasional holiday alcohol beverage is a gift unto us all, aged 21 and older.

But not everyone is of legal drinking age and our friends in recovery should be able to enjoy Christmas drink recipes as well, so here’s a list of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic recipes that, if made correctly, will send your guests home with a warm tummy and fond memories of a holiday party that didn’t include terrible wine, opposite of festive cocktails, and sideways glances when a guest asks, “Do you have anything nonalcoholic to drink?”

piece of cheesecloth, and add to pot. Stir in brown sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce heat, and keep warm. Serve hot.

(This can be served with or without alcohol).

Holiday Mulled Wine: Combine red wine, orange slices, honey, brandy, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ginger in a slow cooker. Cook on Low until wine is steam-

Hotel deals to make scheduling the perfect getaway even easier) and you’ll be on your way to Christmas paradise in no time!

Port Ludlow, WA: With its peaceful bay, pristine views and sandy beach, Port Ludlow attracts vacationers year-round with promises of relaxation and wonder.

And Port Ludlow delivers every time. A totem pole overlooks the deep waters of the protected bay and surrounding forest, creating stunning scenery and the marina offers rugged majestic views of the Olympic Mountains from boat and land.

Located next to the marina, The Resort at Port Ludlow (www.PortLudlowResort. com) offers award winning, local farmfresh fare and luxury accommodations.

Port Ludlow is just a short ferry ride from the Seattle Ferry Terminal to the Bainbridge Ferry Terminal. From there, by bus or car, cross over the Hood Canal Bridge on Highway 104 and you’ll soon be there. Travel time is estimated at about three (worth every minute) hours.

Woodinville, WA: Woodinville, otherwise known as wine country, hosts travelers and wine tasters in cozy hotels and spas that dot the country roads year-round. It’s beautiful and so is the travel time – less than 60 minutes from downtown Seattle and you’re there.

Every December, for the past 11 years, Mark Zembruski’s Woodinville Wonderland is a sight to behold. His entire yard is covered in lighted trees, Santa’s elves, jolly snowmen, candy canes and even a

Christmas train. Music fills the air and as one might imagine, Christmas lights cover everything. It’s a popular destination, especially for families. People travel from all over the area to see it – Zembruski estimates between 50,000 and 75,000 visitors a year.

For more information (including directions) go to www.WoodinvilleWonderland. com.

Christmas Ship Festival, Seattle, WA: Looking for a holiday activity just for the night? Look no further than the Christmas Ship Festival.

“Holiday traditions in the Northwest start on the water with Argosy Cruises. Argosy Cruises’ Christmas Ship Festival is a holiday celebration that has been a Pacific Northwest tradition since 1949,” say Argosy Cruise officials on the festival website www.ArgosyCruises.com/theme-cruises/ christmas-ship-festival. “Every year, the Argosy Christmas Ship sails to different Puget Sound waterfront communities, over 45 in total. Choirs onboard sing 20-minute performances to these communities, all broadcast via state-of-the-art speaker system. On shore, thousands of people gather around roaring bonfires anticipating the arrival of the Christmas Ship.”

Opening night is November 28 and the Christmas Ship Festival Finale happens December 23. Visit www.ArgosyCruises. com for the schedule and to purchase a ticket to ride.

with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg to serve. (This is an alcoholic beverage).

with the cinnamon sticks to look like antlers, and the cherry on the rim to look like a nose. (This is an alcoholic beverage).

Apple Pie Shot: In a 2 ounce shot glass, combine vodka and apple cider. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon. (This can be served with or without alcohol).

Christmas Whiskey Slush: Stir pineapple juice, whiskey, and maraschino cherries with their juice in a large freezer-safe container with a lid. Cover container tightly and freeze slush overnight. Scoop the whiskey slush into old-fashioned glasses, mak-

Peppermint Punch: Place ice cream in a punch bowl, and allow to soften slightly.

Blend in milk and ginger ale. Stir until frothy. Serve at once, or keep chilled until ready to serve. Garnish the side of the punch bowl with candy canes that dangle.

(This can be served with or without alcohol).

Christmas Cocoa: In a large holiday mug pour 6 to 8 ounces of hot water over instant cocoa; mix well until dissolved.

Spoon whipped cream onto cocoa; top with candy sprinkles and a cherry. (This can be served with or without alcohol).

Easy Christmas Cider: In a slow cooker, combine apple cider and cinnamon sticks. Wrap allspice and cloves in a small

Christmas Drinks – Pinterest

ing, 20 to 25 minutes. Serve hot. (This is an alcoholic beverage).

Pumpkin Spice Martini: Pour vanilla flavored vodka, Irish cream liqueur, and pumpkin flavored liqueur into a cocktail shaker over ice. Cover, and shake until the outside of the shaker has frosted. Strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish

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Poinsettias: Pour champagne into a champagne flute, and top with cranberry juice. (This is an alcoholic beverage).

ing sure each glass contains a cherry or two. Top with lemon-lime soda. (This is an alcoholic beverage).

Rudolph-Tini: Pour vodka, hazelnut liqueur, rum, and half-and-half into a cocktail shaker over ice. Cover and shake until the outside of the shaker has frosted.

Strain into a chilled martini glass; garnish

Dirty Snowball: In a shot glass, combine the coffee liqueur, crème de menthe, and Irish cream liqueur. Drink all at once.

(This is an alcoholic beverage).

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holiday events continued from page 8

dren) ask questions about gender or sexual orientation, do you have the curriculum or resources to quickly and comfortably answer them? Are you a caring community member interested in being part of schools that are welcoming for all? Are you a student interested in creating change? The educators of the WEA-LGBTQ Caucus invite you and your unique voice to a conversation about diverse and authentically inclusive public schools. It’s 2015 and sexual orientation, gender identity, race, age, ability and socioeconomic status do not exist separately – they exist simultaneously. That’s what makes life beautiful, so let’s talk about it!

We’ll enjoy fun holiday treats and activities, plus we’ll all leave with free resources, tools and information about upcoming opportunities. Students are super-welcome – their opinions and experiences are key!

Light refreshments and activities begin at 6pm. Community organizations including The Safe Schools Coalition, GLSEN, Equal Rights Washington, the WEA-LGBTQ Caucus and more will be engaging us with important updates from their work.

RSVP to www.facebook.com/waglbtc/ or email smccann@washingtonea.org LGBT CABARET & MUSIC Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales “Unwrapped.” Nov. 25-Dec. 13. Seattle Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. The stars of 2014’s hit musical revue “The Vaudevillians” are back with more tunes and more laughs, this time with mistletoe!

Drag performers Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales return to the Leo K. Stage for a special engagement that is perfect for those looking for an off-kilter, off-color holiday show. So drag yourself to the theatre for big cheer! Tickets: $42-$62. www.seattlerep.

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org; 206-443-2222.

“The Dina Martina Christmas Show 2015 – ALL NEW!” Nov. 27 & 28 & Dec. 4-31. Re-bar, 1114 Howell St. “The Second Lady of Entertainment,” the most surreal and hilarious chanteuse you’ll ever find - Dina Martina! - returns to Seattle’s Re-bar with an ALL-NEW holiday show.

Accompanied on the ivories by Stranger Genius Award winner Mr. Chris Jeffries and armed with truly legendary songs, stories, costumes and audience gifts, Dina Martina will give you one of the most festive, invigorating and ingeniously funny evenings you’ve ever had! See why she’s a favorite of John Waters, Matt Stone, Margaret Cho, Jennifer Coolidge, Graham Norton and many, many more! Get your tickets now, because pretty soon they’ll be goin’ like hotcakes! Tickets: $22 advance; $25 at the door. www.brownpapertickets/com/ event/2226867. www.dinamartina.com Seattle Men’s Chorus – “Home for the Holidays.” Nov. 28 at 8pm & Nov. 29 at 2pm with special guest Tituss Burgess; then Dec. 4, 8pm; Dec. 6, 7:30pm; Dec. 13, 7:30pm; Dec. 20, 7:30pm; Dec. 21, 7:30pm.

S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St. For his final yuletide concert, Dennis Coleman is wrapping up his naughty and nice audience favorites, just for you! Come home for the holidays to Seattle’s most welcoming celebration of the season. The proud voices of Seattle Men’s Chorus will envelop you in harmony for an evening of heartfelt holiday magic – sprinkled with a festive pinch of fairy dust. We have presents under our tree for everyone: beloved carols, soaring holiday classics, and the cheeky antics you expect from SMC. Bring your friends and family and share in the tradition. Tickets: $25-$78. 206-388-1400; www.SeattleMensChorus.org

November 20, 2015

Also, IN TACOMA: Dec. 3, 8pm.

Pantages Theater, 901 Broadway, Tacoma.

Tickets: $19-$69; 253-591-5894 or 1-800291-7593; BroadwayCenter.org and IN EVERETT: Dec. 19, 8pm. Civic Auditorium, 2415 Colby Ave., Everett. Tickets: $25-45; 206-388-1400; www.SeattleMensChorus. org

Dec. 5, 7:30pm. Third Place Commons, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park.

Purple Passion Swing Band puts a little jazz in the holidays with this all-ages, FREE admission concert on the Third Place Commons stage. Put on your dancing shoes and join us in Lake Forest Park! www.rainbowcityband.com.

Russian Chamber Music Foundation of Seattle presents piano legend Craig Sheppard in concert. Dec. 4, 7pm. Frye Art Museum, 704 Terry Ave. Performing “24 Preludes and Fugues, Op. 87, Nos. 1-12” by Dmitri Shostakovich. Don’t miss this concert! Find out more at www.craigsheppard.net. Tickets: $20-adults; $10-seniors/students; kids free. Tickets: 425-8291345 www.russianchambermusic.org.

“Homo for the Holidays.” Dec. 11-14, Dec. 17-24, Dec. 26-27. West Hall, Odd Fellows Building, 2nd Floor, 915 E. Pine St. “Homo For The Holidays” is a seasonal spectacle guaranteed to make even the most stubborn yuletides Gay! An unforgettable all-star cast of burlesque, cabaret, dance, drag, and musical local luminaries come together in a display of glittering grandeur that’s been called “F*CKING GREAT....F*CKING HILARIOUS!” by Dan Savage of The Stranger.

“Homo For The Holidays” is a hearty holiday fruitcake packed with rollicksome reindeer, enticing elves, ghostly guests, sexy snowstorms, agile angels, musical Maccabees, and new ways to define coming home. It’s not Christmas in July, it’s Pride in December! Light your menorah, stuff your stockings, and join your chosen family in celebrating our favorite wintry holiday of all, “Homo For The Holidays!” Tickets: $25-$30 advance; $30-$35 at the door; RESERVE A SPECIAL FRONT ROW VIP TABLE! $175/table (seats up to 4). Only six tables available per show! Includes exclusive reserved seating in the front row, and a special “Homo For The Holidays” gift bag from BenDeLaCreme and the cast! www. strangertickets.com.

“Ham for the Holidays: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Ham?” Dec. 3-20. (ASL interpreter date Dec. 10.) ACT Theatre, Falls Theatre, 700 Union St. Merry. Mirthful.

Mad. Seattle comedians Lisa Koch and Peggy Platt (aka Dos Fallopia) return to ACT with their wackadoodle, gender-bending holiday sketch series. Platt and Koch take you on a holiday outing packed with devilish social satire, cockeyed musical parodies, and more wigs than Lady Gaga: “The Colonel and Shenille” play lounge hits on a sightseeing river barge tour; “Three’s Custody,” a ‘70s sitcom set in prison; “Presidential Family Feud,” features relatives of political candidates; the tiny Sequim Gay Men’s Chorus sing with glee; Country duo The Spudds merge Dr. Seuss with Dynasty, for How the Bitch Stole Christmas. “Ham for the Holidays” contains adult humor and themes recommended for ages 14+. Tickets: $20-$40. 206-292-7676; www.acttheatre.org.

Rainbow City Band’s Purple Passion Swing Band – “Holiday Jazz Concert.”

“KPC’s “Campy Christmas.” Dec. 12, 8pm. Kirkland Performance Center, 350 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland. Fierce. Fabulous. Festive! A night of drag and holiday see Holiday events page 21

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traditions turned on their heads. KPC’s “Campy Christmas” features the fabulous Seattle Men’s Chorus group Captain Smartypants, and the Seattle Women’s Chorus group Sensible Shoes. Captain Smartypants, Sensible Shoes, Steve Thoreson dressed in drag as Divine and special guests will bring the hilarious campy fun with satirical versions of your favorite holiday songs. Hosted by David Hunter Koch.

At “Campy Christmas,” we don’t limit stage time to the performers. Enjoy three different contests: Ugly Sweaters, Lip Synching, and Dancing! Wear your ugliest sweater or most Christmasy outfit and get your voice and dance moves ready to dazzle your friends and win fun prizes. 18+ show.

Tickets: $25. www.kpcenter.org; 425-8939900.

Rainbow City Band – “Once Upon A Time.” Dec. 12, 7pm. Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway. Rainbow City Band celebrates the season by bringing the music of our favorite stories to life. Tickets: $15 advance; $20 at the door; $12 seniors and students; $5 kids 12 and under. www. rainbowcityband.com.

Social Outreach Seattle (SOSea) – “Holiday Cheer: Vol. 3 CD Release Party & Benefit Concert.” Dec. 13, 4pm doors; 5-7pm show. Neighbours Nightclub, 1509 Broadway – entrance in alley between Broadway and Harvard Ave off E. Pike St. A benefit for “From the Heart,” SOSea’s LGBTQ Homeless Teen Outreach Program. Featuring some of Seattle’s best live vocal performers. Tickets: $10 – includes 1 copy of “Holiday Cheer: Vol. 3.”

MUSIC Byrd Ensemble – “Tudor Christmas.” Nov. 28, 7:30pm. St. Mark’s Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E. Join the Byrd Ensemble for their annual Christmas program

Thanksgiving weekend. Thomas Tallis’ Missa Puer natus est nobis frames this program of English carols and motets. Carols are accompanied by harpsichordist Byron Schenkman and the readings by actor Nurmi Husa. Tickets: $25-general admission; $20-seniors (65+); $15-students. 206-3973627; www.ByrdEnsemble.com Seattle Men’s Chorus – “Home for the Holidays.” Nov. 28-Dec. 21. (See details above under LGBT Cabaret & Music.)

Roosevelt High School Jazz Band – Duke Ellington’s and Billy Strayhorn’s “Jazz Nutcracker.” Dec. 5, 7:30pm & Dec. 6, 2pm. Roosevelt High School Performing Arts Theatre, 1410 NE 66th St. Roosevelt High School Jazz Band’s phenomenal annual performance of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s “Jazz Nutcracker.” Tickets: $15-adults, $12-students and seniors.

206-201-1650; www.rooseveltjazz.org.

The Washingtonians – “Songs We Know.” Dec. 5, 8pm & Dec. 6, 2pm. Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & Union St. The Washingtonians – The Choir with a Sense of Humor – reunites after a 12-year hiatus! Founded and directed by local composer Scott Warrender (Das Barbecu! Texas Chainsaw Manicurist), “Songs We Know” will feature his uniquely original compositions and arrangements. This beloved 60-member choir is comprised largely of musical theater performers, and has a history of soldout shows. Tickets: $21-$46; 215-4747; www.showtunestheatre.org.

Candlelight Concerts – “Pleasures of Pan.” Dec. 6, 7pm. University Christian Church, 4731 15th Ave. NE. Special guest Mary Lynch, Seattle Symphony’s phenomenal new principal oboist, joins us for an exploration of intimate chamber music for winds, viola and keyboard from 18thcentury composers W.F. Bach and Janitsch through the early 20th-century preoccupation with Pan and figures from antiquity.

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(“Pleasures of Pan” presented six volumes of flute music from three centuries in 1917.)

Suggested donation: $25, $20 or $15, with series passes available for $50. www.candlelightseattle.org; 206-522-0169. Also on Bainbridge, Whidbey and Orcas Islands and in Stanwood in 2015!

Kirkland Choral Society – Bach at Bastyr: Bach “Magnificat” with other Songs of the Season. Dec. 6, 3pm. Bastyr University Chapel, 14500 Juanita Dr. NE, Kenmore. Experience the power and beauty of 100 voices lifted in song as Kirkland Choral Society takes the stage for their annual holiday concert! Bach at Bastyr features one of the greatest choral masterworks of all time: Johann Sebastian Bach’s glorious “Magnificat,” plus an array of modern-day choral gems – including works

by Gjeilo, Chilcott, and Lauridsen – and a sprinkling of favorite holiday carols. First performed by KCS fourteen years ago at their premiere Bastyr concert, the “Magnificat” this time will be accompanied by their outstanding partner orchestra, Philharmonia Northwest. Expertly blended in Bastyr’s world-famous acoustics, this is a performance you won’t want to miss. Tickets: $20-adult; $15-youth and senior. 1-800838-3006; http://www.brownpapertickets. com/event/2405414.

Northwest Chamber Chorus – “Our Dancing Day – with String Quartet, Flute, and Percussion.” Dec. 6, 3pm & Dec. 12, 7:30pm. Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, 7500 Greenwood Ave. “Tomorrow shall be my dancing day” tells the story of the season, with Jesus claiming Christmas as his own Dancing Day. We celebrate the season with music inspired by the idea of dance – from Nigeria, colonial America, Great Britain, France, and Spain. The concert will feature Estampie Natalis by Czech-American composer Vaclav Nelhybel, accompanied by strings, flute and percussion. The instruments will join the chorus for additional selections, including our traditional sing-along.. Tickets: $23

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general, Senior (62+) $18, Singer $18, Student ages 6-18 free. www.northwestchamberchorus.org; 206-523-1196.

Pacific Lutheran University – “A Christmas Invitation.” Dec. 7, 7:30pm, S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St. Ring in the season with a Christmas celebration that is sure to warm the heart and lift your holiday spirit! This year’s program will feature the world premiere of critically acclaimed composer JAC Redford’s “A Christmas Invitation,” a three-movement work composed for Choir of the West, University Chorale and our University Symphony Orchestra. The program will also include traditional Christmas favorites along with festive carols sung by the audience.

Tickets: $17-32. www.BenaroyaHall.org; 206-215-4747; 1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall Box Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St. Northwest University Concert Choir – “Christmas Traditions.” Dec. 8, 7:30pm, S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St. The Northwest University Concert Choir and Chamber Choir, joined by Coro Amici and the Kirkland Civic Orchestra, present Christmas Traditions! Now in its seventh season, this established Christmas concert celebrates the traditions of Christmas, featuring new carol arrangements and traditional selections by Anton Bruckner, Jan Sweelinck, Dan Forrest, John Rutter, Craig Courtney and more, including a few traditional sing-a-longs. Come and celebrate the true meaning of the season with us! Tickets: $14-38. www.BenaroyaHall. org; 206-215-4747; 1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall Box Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St. Blind Boys of Alabama – “Talkin’ Christmas.” Dec. 9, 7:30pm, S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St. The Blind see Holiday events page 22

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Boys of Alabama are an American treasure.

This holiday season, the Blind Boys are touring in support of their album, Talkin’ Christmas! (Sony Masterworks), their second-ever Christmas album. This special concert will feature songs from Talkin’ Christmas! and the band’s previous Grammy-winning Christmas recording, Go Tell It on the Mountain, along with other gems from their 70-plus-year career. Celebrate the holidays with living legends of gospel!

The Blind Boys of Alabama bring their special Grammy-winning Christmas show back to Benaroya Hall. Tickets: $30-102. www.BenaroyaHall.org; 206-215-4747; 1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall Box Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St. Under the Streetlamp – “Holiday Show.” Dec. 9, 7:30pm, Edmonds Center for the Arts, 410 4th Ave. N, Edmonds. Under the Street Lamplamp, America’s hottest new vocal group comprised of a former cast of Jersey Boys, has an electrifying holiday show featuring an evening of classic hits from the American radio songbook along with all the great holiday standards. This modern-day Rat Pack with two top-rated PBS specials still airing, will have the audience on their feet and saying it is the best concert they have ever seen! Tickets: $44, $39 & 34. 425-275-9595; www.ec4arts.org.

Pacific MusicWorks – Handel’s “Messiah.” Dec. 10, 8pm. Edmonds United Methodist Church, 828 Caspers St., Edmonds. (See Dec. 12 & 13 listing below for details.) Tickets: $45-general; $40-seniors; $20-student; $10 UW student; youth (5-17) free with accompanying ticketed adult.

708-6003; http://www.pacificmusicworks. org/performances/handel-messiah/

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David Templeton Christmas Concert.

Dec. 11, 7:30pm, Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St. David Templeton returns for a third time to Benaroya to celebrate Christmas with his passionate piano music and the release of a new holiday album entitled First Snow. David brings to the stage a level of performance that is vibrant, rich and satisfying. The New Yorker calls him “One of the most accomplished and original new talents to hit the keyboards ... thoroughly enjoyable.” Mr. Templeton debuted at Carnegie Hall in 2011 where he performed compositions from his sixth CD, Under the Willow Tree. He is now releasing his seventh album entitled First Snow at the beautiful Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall this December.

He will perform a full range of traditional Christmas songs as well as some of his own compositions on piano and guitar. Join David on Dec. 11 for what promises to be a magical night filled with Christmas songs and traditional holiday cheer. This event is presented by Mason Ridge. Tickets: $52192. www.BenaroyaHall.org; 206-2154747; 1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall Box Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St. Pacific MusicWorks – Handel’s “Messiah.” Dec. 11, 8pm. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 4400 86th Ave., Mercer Island.

(See Dec. 12 & 13 listing below for details.)

Tickets: $45-general; $40-seniors; $20-student; $10 UW student; youth (5-17) free with accompanying ticketed adult. 7086003; http://www.pacificmusicworks.org/ performances/handel-messiah/ The Esoterics – Sviridov: Celebrating the Centennial of Composer Georgy Sviridov. Dec. 11 & 12, 8pm. 12/11 at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 4805 NE

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45th St. 12/12 at West Seattle Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 4210 SW Genessee St. In the final program of their 22nd concert season, The Esoterics will celebrate the life and music of the neo-Romantic Russion composer Georgy Svirdov with an unprecedented series of concerts in both Seattle and Tacoma. Founding Director Eric Banks has researched and published his own editions of Sviridov’s collected choral works, with complete transliterations of every text in the program. The Esoterics has expanded to 50 singers to present this concert of luxurious and majestic music inspired by folksong, poetry of the Silver Age, and the Russian Orthodox liturgy.

See The Esoterics website for complete details on their remarkable program. Tickets: $25 at the door ($22 in advance); $18 for students, seniors, the un(der)employed, and the differently-abled ($15 in advance). http://www.theesoterics.org/ (Also Dec. 13, 7:30pm at Christ Episcopal Church, 310 N “K” St., Tacoma.)

Seattle Choral Company – “Peace on Earth.” Dec. 11 & 12, 8pm. Saint Mark’s Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E. “Peace on Earth” will take you to the realm of inner peace at Christmastime. Come with family and friends and enjoy holiday music for choir, strings, harp, and guest soloists.

Non-reserved single tickets: $25. Youth 6 and over and students with valid ID are admitted FREE at the door. 206-3631100; http://www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/2080998; www.seattlechoralcompany.org;.

Northwest Boy Choir – “A Festival of Lessons & Carols.” Dec. 11-22. (See complete schedule below.)

The Northwest Boychoir proudly presents its 37-year annual concert series featuring eight regional performances in De-

cember. These holiday concerts showcase the 90-member combined chorus of the Northwest Boychoir and Vocalpoint! Seattle.

Patterned after the Christmas Eve observance at King’s College in Cambridge, England, A Festival of Lessons & Carols has become a holiday tradition for thousands of families in the Puget Sound region. This classical performance consists of nine holiday readings, each followed by a traditional carol performed by the choir, and another carol sung by the choir and audience.

A Festival of Lessons & Carols concerts are open to the public at various venues throughout the Puget Sound Region and all seating is reserved. Advance tickets are available through the Northwest Choirs at 206-524-3234 or online at www.nwboychoir.org. These concerts often draw soldout audiences. Advance ticket purchases are encouraged.

COMPLETE SCHEDULE: Fri. 12/11, 7:30pm @ Plymouth Church, 1217 Sixth Ave. | Sat. 12/12, 7:30pm @ Trinity Lutheran Church, Lynnwood | Sun. 12/13, 7pm @ St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church | Fri. Dec. 18, 7:30pm @ Holy Rosary Church, 4210 SW Genessee St. | Sat. 12/19, 7:30pm @ St. Mark’s Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E. | Sun. 12/20, 7pm @ St. Alphonsus Church, 5816 15th Ave. NW | Mon. 12/21, 7:30pm @ St. Mark’s Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E. | Tue. 12/23, 7:30pm @ S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St.

Bellevue Chamber Chorus – “Season of Wonder.” Dec. 12, 7:30pm @ Bothell United Methodist Church, 18515 92nd Ave NE, Bothell. (See Dec. 20 listing below for details.) Tickets: $20-adults, $15-seniors, $10-students, and $5-children 12 and under. 425-881-0445; www.BellevueCham-

Celebrating 41 Years!

berChorus Northwest Associated Arts – “Joy!” Dec. 12, 7:30pm & Dec. 13, 2pm. Highline Performing Arts Center, 401 S. 152nd St., Burien. The entire Burien community will come together to celebrate as the NWAA musical family presents its fun-filled Christmas Concert extravaganza, featuring all seven of our ensembles and nearly 200 singers. ChoralSounds, SilverSounds, and our youth choruses will put joy into your family’s season as we bring you cherished holiday song traditions from around the world. Songs from Spain, South Africa, France, Latvia, and England combine with your festive and familiar favorites! Tickets: $25 reserved; $20 festival seating; 17 & under FREE with adult ticket holder. www. nwassociatedarts.org; 206-246-6040.

Northwest Chamber Chorus – “Our Dancing Day – with String Quartet, Flute, and Percussion.” Dec. 12, 7:30pm.

Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, 7500 Greenwood Ave. (See Dec. 6 listing above for details.) Tickets: $23 general, Senior (62+) $18, Singer $18, Student ages 6-18 free. www.northwestchamberchorus.org; 206-523-1196.

Pacific MusicWorks – Handel’s “Messiah.” Dec. 12 & 13, 8pm. Meany Theater, UW Campus. Pacific MusicWorks will be performing this piece for the first time in Seattle in various venues. We will take a revolutionary approach, as practiced by Handel, with four of our favorite vocal soloists “embedded” in the University of Washington Chamber Singers on the Meany stage. Handel always listed his vocal soloists as the first voice of each part, with the strong implication that they led the choral singing as well as the solos. Just as Handel has learned the techinique of opposing solo

strings with the full orchestra from Corelli’s Concerti Grossi, so the solist/choir combination offers a vastly increased palette of textures. The artists: Stephen Stubbs, conductor; Teresa Wakim, soprano; Reginald Mobley, counter-tenor; Zachary Wilder, tenor; Kevin Deas, bass-baritone. With the University of Washington Chamber Singers and Pacific MusicWorks Orchestra. Tickets: $45-general; $40-seniors; $20-student; $10 UW student; youth (5-17) free with accompanying ticketed adult.

Rainbow City Band – “Once Upon A Time.” Dec. 12, 7pm. Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway. Rainbow City Band celebrates the season by bringing the music of our favorite stories to life. Tickets: $15 advance; $20 at the door; $12 seniors and students; $5 kids 12 and under. www. rainbowcityband.com.

Seattle Pro Musica – “Christmas with Seattle Pro Musica – a Family Holiday Concert.” Dec. 12, 3pm, Seattle First Baptist Church, 1111 Harvard Ave. Bring the whole family for a joyful concert of traditional carols, holiday stories, and an audience sing-along. Students from area schools will join us in this one-hour concert that’s perfect for children and their families! Tickets: $25 prime, $15 general, $10 senior & student, $5 child (under 13). Call Brown Paper Tickets’ 24-hour hotline at 1-800-838-3006, or call Seattle Pro Musica directly at 206-781-2766.

Seattle Pro Musica – “Northern Lights – Music of the Baltics and Scandinavia.” Dec. 12, 7:30pm. Seattle First Baptist Church, 1111 Harvard Ave. Northern Lights showcases music that evokes the shimmering beauty of the aurora borealis.

The program spans a thousand years of Baltic and Nordic choral music, from medi-

Visit us online www.sgn.org

eval chant and traditional carols to contemporary works by Einojuhani Rautavaara, Jaakko Mäntyjärvi, Cyrillus Kreek, and Veljo Tormis. The centerpiece is “Northern Lights” by Ēriks Ešenvalds, one of today’s most sought-after young composers. With voices, chimes, and tuned water goblets, Ešenvalds recreates the wonder of the Northern Lights in sound. Tickets: $35 prime, $25 general, $18 senior, $12 student.

Call Brown Paper Tickets’ 24-hour hotline at 1-800-838-3006, or call Seattle Pro Musica directly at 206-781-2766.

Candlelight Concerts – “Festive Baroque with the Sans Souci Ensemble.”

Dec. 13, 7pm. University Christian Church, 4731 15th Ave. NE. The “Fifth Brandenburg Concerto,” other festive baroque concerti and a quartet for flute and strings by W.A. Mozart, with the Sans Souci Ensemble including flutist Jeffrey Cohan, violinists Sarah Hall and Stephen Creswell, violist Roxanna Patterson, and harpsichordist Michael Refvem. Suggested donation: $25, $20 or $15, with series passes available for $50. www.candlelightseattle.org; 206-5220169.

Cascade Symphony Orchestra – “Holiday Pops.” Dec. 13, 7:30pm. Edmonds Center for the Arts, 410 Fourth Ave. N., Edmonds. (See Dec. 13 & 14 listing below for details.) Tickets: $27-adults, $22-senior, $15-student w/ID, $10-youth 12 & under. 425-275-9595; http://www.edmondscenterforthearts.org/; http://cascadesymphony.org/ The Esoterics – Sviridov: Celebrating the Centennial of Composer Georgy Sviridov. Dec. 13, 7:30pm at Christ Episcopal Church, 310 N “K” St., Tacoma. (See Dec. 11 & 12 listing above for details.)

Tickets: $25 at the door ($22 in advance);

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$18 for students, seniors, the un(der)employed, and the differently-abled ($15 in advance). http://www.theesoterics.org/ Northwest Associated Arts – “Joy!” Dec. 13, 2pm. Highline Performing Arts Center, 401 S. 152nd St., Burien. (See Dec. 12 & 13 listing above for details.) Tickets: $25 reserved; $20 festival seating; 17 & under FREE with adult ticket holder. www. nwassociatedarts.org; 206-246-6040.

Pacific MusicWorks – Handel’s “Messiah.” Dec. 13, 8pm. Meany Theater, UW Campus. (See Dec. 12 & 13 listing above for details.) Tickets: $45-general; $40-seniors; $20-student; $10 UW student; youth (5-17) free with accompanying ticketed adult.

Strawberry Theatre Workshop – Jose Gonzalez Trio plays “Charlie Brown Christmas.” Dec. 13, 6pm. Cornish Playhouse Studio (formerly Intiman Theatre), 201 Mercer St. “Linus and Juicy” is back!

The Jose “Juicy” Gonzales Trio returns to Strawberry Theatre Workshop for the jazziest Christmas party in Seattle. Groove to the fresh sounds of Vince Guaraldi’s holiday classic, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” played in its entirety. Now in its fifth year, Charlie has jammed its way onto the list of the region’s most hip holiday traditions. Sip your cocktails at the Cornish Playhouse.

Dress in your favorite jazz threads and step back into 1965, when the music was fly, and Snoopy was still just a drawing on the comics page. Featuring a silent auction of holiday gifts, and the uniquely fine chocolates of Margaret Savas. All proceeds to benefit Strawberry Theatre Workshop programs for 2016. Tickets: $36, but 25% off between now and Thanksgiving at http://www. brownpapertickets.com/event/2412843. see Holiday events page 26

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Celebrating 41 Years!

snowshoeing minutes from town.

Get Your Shopping Done and Relax: The town’s unique shops make Christmas shopping a breeze, and cozy restaurants warm guests from the inside out. Don’t forget numerous opportunities to taste local and regional wines in downtown tasting rooms.

The Details: Each Friday the first 3 weekends of December: The Bavarian village is illuminated. Catch live music in the Front Street Gazebo from 4-9pm, with the exciting arrival of Saint Nikolas at 4:30pm.

Each Saturday and Sunday the first 3 weekends of December: Live music be-

Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival – Photo by Brian Munoz

Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival December 4-6, 11-13, 18-20 Bavarian wonderland is the ultimate holiday destination

Glühwein are on hand. At 4:30pm the Lighting Ceremony begins, with countdown to illumination!

But Wait.... Yes there is more – so much we can’t include it all here. Dog sleds, the National Guard Band, and a Living Nativity just to name a few! You will just have to visit! Or, you can contact us for all the glorious details. If festival crowds leave you weak in the knees, come over midweek or weekends thru February.

We are the village of lights all days of the week, and we’re the ultimate destination for Christmas Lighting!

For more information about the Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival or the Leavenworth area call 509-548-5807 or

Over half a million lights and ttons of holiday cheer sparkle in Washington’s Bavarian Village the first three weekends of December. With all there is to see, do, taste and experience, it’s no wonder Leavenworth is described as “America’s Ultimate Holiday Town” drawing over 25,000 visitors each Christmas Lighting Festival weekend!

Get in the Mood: The voices of carolers mingle with the laughter of children sledding as Christmas characters like Santa, Mrs. Claus and Father Christmas greet festival-goers. Little ones can follow the “cookie-crawl” while grown-ups enjoy a glass of Glühwein after finding the perfect holiday gift. Hail a horse drawn carriage and enjoy the smell of roasting chestnuts while brass bands and carolers ring out the sounds of the season.

This year “The Voice” contestants Brenna Yaeger, George Horga Jr., and Siahna Im will be joining us during our Christmas Lighting ceremony to sing Silent Night and Joy to the World!

Get Tickets and Passes: Fabulous arts and culture abound this holiday season with plays, harp concerts, choir performances, hand bell ringers, concerts and musicals.

Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival – Photo courtesy of Icicle TV

The surrounding mountains beckon with downhill skiing and snowboarding at Mission Ridge and Stevens Pass: amazing Ski and Stay packages are available. There’s a tubing park, sleigh rides, and Nordic trails/

gins at 11:00am and plays all day. Santa, Mrs. Claus and Father Christmas arrive at the Gazebo at noon in a horse-drawn carriage surrounded by a cast of Christmas characters! Food booths and traditional

Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival – Photo by Brian Munoz

Visit us online www.sgn.org

November 20, 2015

visit www.leavenworth.org.

Courtesy of the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce

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Holiday events continued from page 23

Cascade Symphony Orchestra – “Holiday Pops.” Dec. 13 & 14, 7:30pm.

(Pre-concert lecture at 6:30pm.) Edmonds Center for the Arts, 410 Fourth Ave. N., Edmonds. Featuring “Euphonium” by Adam Frey, “March from Babes in Toyland” by Victor Herbert, “Christmas Festival Anderson,” “Jazz Legato,” and “Bugler’s Holiday” by Anderson, “Chanukah Medley” by Marcus and R. Seletsky (arr.), Hallelujah Chorus from “Messiah” by Handel. Tickets: $27-adults, $22-senior, $15-student w/ ID, $10-youth 12 & under. 425-275-9595; http://www.edmondscenterforthearts.org/; http://cascadesymphony.org/ Ensign Symphony & Chorus “Alleluia.” Dec. 14 &15, 7:30pm, S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St. Looking for a beautiful Christmas concert that celebrates the reason for the season? Look no further!

“Alleluia,” presented by Ensign Symphony & Chorus with guest pianist and recording artist Jennifer Thomas, promises to both entertain and inspire. You’ll hear traditional favorites like “Joy to the World,” “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “The First Noel.” You’ll also hear brand new tunes from Jennifer Thomas’s upcoming album Winter Symphony, recently recorded together with Ensign Chorus at Bastyr University. Audience members regularly comment that the annual Ensign Symphony & Chorus concert is their favorite way to start the season. Make it your tradition too!

The new Ensign Symphony & Chorus fills a unique space in the panoramic performing arts scene of the Puget Sound region. Some 150 Ensign singers and instrumentalists, led by Rob Archibald and Fabio Pirola, perform a broad repertoire of joyous music in the tradition of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, BBC Symphony Chorus and Westminster Symphonic Choir, infusing life-long university, church and community ensemble training with a passion that is profoundly moving. Tickets: $16-$36. www.BenaroyaHall.org; 206-215-4747; 1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall Box Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St. Northwest Baroque Masterworks – “Praetorius Christmas Vespers.” Dec. 16, 7:30pm at Bastyr University Chapel, 14500 Juanita Dr. NE, Kenmore; Dec. 18, 8pm at St. James Cathedral, 804 9th Ave. David Fallis, artistic director of the Toronto Consort, leads the Northwest Baroque Masterworks ensemble of thirteen vocal soloists, strings, winds, brass, lutes, organ, and full choir in festive cantatas to fill the Bastyr University Chapel and St. James Cathedral with sounds of the holiday season.

The performance recreates the joyful celebration of Christmas Vespers as it might have been heard under the direction of Michael Praetorius in a 17th-century North German Lutheran church. “Praetorius Christmas Vespers,” a Northwest Baroque Masterworks performance, is presented in collaboration with Early Music Vancouver, Portland Baroque Orchestra, and Victoria’s Early Music Society of the Islands. Tickets: $39, $25 for students/ under 25. www.earlymusicguild.org; 206325-7066.

Nora Michaels & Victor Janusz sing “CHARISMA NOEL!” with the Victor Janusz Quartet (Bassist Dave Solonen, Accordion/Percussionist Rob Witmer, Saxman MD Dixon, with Mr. Janusz at the piano). Dec. 16, 9pm show (8:30pm door). Egan’s Ballard Jam House, 1707 NW Market St. Singers Nora Michaels and Victor Janusz – “together again for the very second time!” – will offer an intimate concert “Singing Only the Holiday Songs They LOVE.” Fans of the two Northwest-

26 Seattle Gay News

based vocalists know this event will mean an eclectic journey from standards, jazz, the blues, and Janusz’ perennial favorite holiday near-classics (“FRUITCAKE BLUES,” “C3 Queens” and “Christmas in the Bahamas,” to name a few) served with a hearty dose of story-telling (Childhood Tales of Xmas-Trauma are NOT included).

Tickets: $15 cover. Seating is limited. Advance tickets strongly recommended. www. brownpapertickets.com/event/2465994.

The Coats Annual Holiday Show.

Dec. 18 & 19, 7:30pm, Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & Union St. Nationally acclaimed vocal band The Coats present their annual holiday show with special guests, making it an evening never to forget! Tickets: $39.50. www.BenaroyaHall.org; 206-215-4747; 1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall Box Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St. Bellevue Chamber Chorus – “Season of Wonder.” Dec. 19, 7:30pm. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 3030 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue. (See Dec. 20 listing below for details.) Tickets: $20-adults, $15-seniors, $10-students, and $5-children 12 and under. 425-881-0445; www.BellevueChamberChorus Orchestra Seattle/Seattle Chamber Singers (OSSCS) – Handel’s “Messiah.”

Dec. 19, 7:30pm. Seattle First Free Methodist Church, 3200 3rd Ave. W; Dec. 20, 3pm. Everett First Presbyterian Church, 2936 Rockefeller Ave, Everett. No other work has become more closely associated with OSSCS than Georg Frideric Handel’s most celebrated oratorio, “Messiah.” For four decades, audiences have delighted in our complete and uncut performances. This season we offer two performances: one in Seattle and a second in Everett. Tickets: $25 general, $20 senior, $10 full-time student, FREE youth 7-17. www.osscs.org/ concerts; www.brownpapertickets.com; 1-800-838-3006.

Bellevue Chamber Chorus – “Season of Wonder.” Dec. 12, 7:30pm @ Bothell United Methodist Church, 18515 92nd Ave NE, Bothell; Dec. 19, 7:30pm @ St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 3030 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue; Dec. 20, 3pm @ Prospect Congregational UCC, 1919 E. Prospect. BCC kicks off its 32nd season with the 2015 holiday program “Season of Wonder.” Brighten your seasonal celebrations with wondrous sacred and secular music for winter and the holidays, as we bring you a sumptuous setting of “The Holly and the Ivy” by the popular Norwegian choral composer Ola Gjeilo, the haunting “’Tis Winter Now”

by Paul Hailey, and “Winter Sun” by Canadian composer Don Macdonald, sure to inspire visions of glittering snowscapes and the aurora borealis. We’re also excited to perfom an exquiste setting of “There Is No Rose” by composer and former Seattle Times classical music critic, Melinda Bargreen. Plus, you’ll hear beautiful works for chorus and classical guitar by Alf Houkum (“The Rune of Hospitality”) and Jeffrey Van (“O Be Joyful”), featuring critically acclaimed and nationally-known guitarist Michael Nicolella (www.nicolella.com), also on the faculty at Cornish College of the Arts. Tickets: $20-adults, $15-seniors, $10-students, and $5-children 12 and under. 425-881-0445; www.BellevueChamberChorus Candlelight Concerts – “Jazzin’ with the Classics by Candlelight for Christmas 2015.” Dec. 20, 7pm. University Christian Church, 4731 15th Ave. NE. Three artists and friends from classical and jazz realms meld their musical perspectives in this unusual collaboration and festive celebration of the Yuletide season – in a brand new program for 2015! Artists in-

November 20, 2015

clude: flutist Jeffrey Cohan; multi-talented Martin Lund on piano, clarinet and flute; and soprano Linda Tsatsanis. Suggested donation: $25, $20 or $15, with series passes available for $50. www.candlelightseattle.org; 206-522-0169. Also on Bainbridge, Whidbey and Orcas Islands and in Stanwood in 2015!

Earshot Jazz – 26th Annual “Concert of Sacred Music” by Duke Ellington.

Dec. 26, 7:30pm. Town Hall Seattle, 1119 Eighth Ave. at Seneca St. Ellington’s wonderful “Sacred Music” is both serious and swinging. It is a reverent and hip body of jazz composition, written late in his career, for jazz big band, vocal and instrumental soloists, gospel choir, and tap dancers.

For the past 25 years Earshot Jazz has presented an annual concert of Ellington’s Sacred Music. The concert features the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra, co-directed

by Michael Brockman and Clarence Acox, guest vocalists Stephen Newby, Nichol Veneé Eskridge, and the NW Chamber Chorus, and special guest tap dancer Alex Dugdale. Tickets: $38-$19 preferred; $28$14 general. https://earshot.secure.force. com/ticket/#sections_a0F1a0000023pHWEAY; 206-547-6763 Byron Schenkman & Friends – “Anna Madgalena Bach Notebook.” Dec. 27, 7pm. Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & Union St. 2015-2016 marks the third season of exciting programming for Byron Schenkman & Friends. Schenkman again collaborates with friends to bring an exciting new baroque and classical chamber music series to Benaroya Hall. At the darkest time of year we offer an intimate glimpse into the private musical world of the Bach family, including works copied out by Anna Magdalena Bach as well as compositions presented to her by her husband, Johann Sebastian Bach. This program features Linda Tsatsanis (soprano), Nathan Whittaker (cello) and Byron Schenkman (harpsichord). Tickets: $42 general, $38 senior, $10 student. www.byronschenkman.com; 206-215-4747.

Cappella Romana – “Epiphany: Medieval Byzantine & Old-Roman Chant.”

Jan. 9, 8pm. Blessed Sacrament Church, 5050 8th Ave NE. This program features Cappella Romana’s specialist ensemble of Byzantine cantors singing a program of Medieval hymns and psalms for the feast of Epiphany. This performance includes examples of Byzantine chant in Greek from Hagia Sophia and from Palestine, and selections in Latin of Old Roman Chant sung directly from 11th-century manuscripts.

Tickets: $44-$22 with student/senior discount. www.cappellaromana.org; 503-2368202.

THEATRE & DANCE A Charlie Brown Christmas. Dec. 3-26. Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St. A Christmas Tradition Reinvented – Charlie Brown is depressed by the never-ending commercialism surrounding the holidays.

Thankfully, Linus is there to help him find the true meaning of Christmas in this musical adaptation of the cartoon classic. Tickets: www.taproottheatre.org; 206-781-9707.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Gregory A. Falls. Nov. 27-Dec. 30. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St. Join us for a Seattle tradition: a ripping good telling of the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge, the curmudgeonly businessman who requires the intervention of a few spectral guides to understand the true meaning of Christmas and life. Well over a century after its writing, Dickens’ classic tale of hope and redemption continues to remind us what’s really worth celebrating – at the

holidays, or any time! Enhance your experience with Inside A Christmas Carol: an exclusive backstage tour. Tickets: www.acttheatre.org; 206-292-7676.

A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play.

Fri/Sat: Dec. 4-5 & 11-12, 7:30pm & Sun: Dec. 6 & 13, 3pm. Twelfth Night Productions, Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th Ave. SW. Twelfth Night Productions (TNP) is proud to present A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play this holiday season. TNP’s Holiday Radio plays have become an annual tradition for community members seeking to revel in holiday cheer with their friends and family.

This holiday season, join us for a retelling of the classic A Christmas Carol, brought to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. Experience the magic of season as the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future visit our hero Ebenezer Scrooge to teach him about generosity, love and the power of giving. As always, our radio program will begin with an original short featuring Dick Doubleheart and the Twelfth Night Comedy Mystery Playhouse, written by John Ruoff. Our cast of talented Radio players also includes our incredible Foley (sound effects) actors, the wonderful 1929 Wurlitzer Pipe Organ, and our Fabulous Mistletones sharing traditional carols before the show. Tickets: $18-general; $15-students/seniors. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2412281 and at the door.

A Christmas Twist. Nov. 27-Dec. 20.

Fri.-Sat., 8pm; Sun.-2pm. Burien Actors Theatre, 14501 4th Ave SW, Seattle. Looking for a little cheekiness in your holiday theater-going? Seven actors bring 18 characters to life in A Christmas Twist, an irreverent mash-up of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist. A Christmas Twist tosses Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist into a highspirited blender with plenty of pop culture and an absurd cast of characters that includes Little Orphan Annie. The result is a humorous parody of Christmas stories about the poor versus the rich that still spreads the spirit of the season. Combining the energy and spontaneous humor of improv with clever satire, this show brings to mind a Mel Brooks creation. Tickets: $20 general admission, $17 seniors and $10 students. 206-242-5180; http://burienlittletheatre.org/ A Holiday of Errors. Dec. 4-20. Sound Theatre Company, 12th Ave Arts, 1620 12th Ave. Christmas Eve, 1593. Marlowe was dead to begin with. Between writer’s block, a plague-ridden London and the theatre-hating Puritans, William Shakespeare faces the end of his career. Then a ghostly visit from the late Christopher Marlowe and a last minute invitation to perform for Queen Elizabeth give the Bard a flicker of hope. But the not-so-virgin queen has some saucy plans of her own. A dash of Richard III, a dose of A Christmas Carol and a dollop of Twelfth Night add up to a real Holiday of Errors! General admission: $25, Student (with ID): $15. Tickets: http://www. brownpapertickets.com/event/2412806 “A(n Improvised) Christmas Carol.”

Nov. 17-Dec. 13. Unexpected Productions, 1428 Post Alley (down the cobblestone alley or down the stairs next to Rachel the Pig at the Pike Place Market). We all know the story of Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Or do we? Unexpected Productions brings back its holiday favorite, “A(n Improvised) Christmas Carol”. Based on audience suggestions, our improvisers bend and twist Charles Dickens’ tale of Ebenezer Scrooge in all sorts of hilarious directions – and each show is different. Where does see Holiday events page 31

Celebrating 41 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

November 20, 2015

Seattle Gay News 27

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November 20, 2015

Celebrating 41 Years!

Baby, it’s hot outside: For a sunny and adventurous holiday, head to Key West

Danger Charters – Albert Rodriguez

by Albert Rodriguez SGN A&E Writer Looking for a way to not freeze this holiday season? Go somewhere warm.

That somewhere could be Key West, a literal hotspot for many snowbirds and vacationers, including a substantial number of LGBT visitors who visit the Floridian island city regularly. A dark blue dot in a red state, this tropical destination has long been accepting of Gays and Lesbians, those who come and go, and those who stay. There are many festivals and unique events that take place in Key West throughout the calendar year, but I recommend just going for the sun and adventure, and also to escape the holiday madness. On my second trip to Key West this summer, I spent many hours relaxing at my resort, though I also did some exploring and went out into the water; it was a laid back, stress-free vacation with a very loose agenda, and that was exactly what I needed.

Here’s information that might come in handy if traveling to Key West. For trip planning assistance, visit fla-keys.com.

GETTING TO KEY WEST Key West and Seattle are on opposite corners of the nation, so if you’ve ever wanted to embark on a cross- country trip, this is it. The city is at the southernmost point of the continental United States and requires at least 2 flights from Western Washington. The simplest itinerary would be a non-stop flight to either Miami (American Airlines) or Ft. Lauderdale (Alaska Airlines) from Sea-Tac – both about 5.5 to 6 hours long – and then a quick 45 minute to an hour flight to Key West. You can also connect through Houston (United Airlines) and Atlanta (Delta Air Lines), if you’re wanting to accrue or redeem miles on those airlines. The short trek between mainland Florida and The Keys can also be made by rental car, or bus; I found a great last-minute deal by charter bus for $30 (one way). Greyhound and other bus service is available directly to Key West from Miami International Airport as well; expect a 3 to 4-hour road trip with beautiful scenery

on both sides – Atlantic and Gulf – of the Overseas Highway, where you’ll cross over 42 bridges before arriving at Key West.

STAY I’d never stayed at a Gay resort before, or an exclusive male hotel, which is exactly what the Equator Resort is. Located on Fleming Street in the Old Town district, amongst a collective of residential homes, lovely B&Bs, small businesses, central library, and a 5-minute walk from bars, restaurants, and the main tourist center, this 34-room resort was ever so convenient. Rooms are tastefully decorated with comfortable beds and fresh linens, wicker chests and drawers, reading lamps, flatscreen TVs, mini fridges, microwaves, and h2o+ bath essentials. Accommodations include daily continental breakfast with Starbucks Coffee, complimentary daily Happy Hour, unlimited filtered water and ice, and use of the property’s two swimming pools. The club music playing nearly all day on the outside speakers coupled with Happy Hour gatherings at the bar by one of the pools, which my room overlooked, made it a tad noisy at times, though overall it was pleasant and calm from morning until night. Aside from the local television stations and cable offerings, the TV programming also included about 4 or 5 Gay porn channels. Staff was helpful and fellow guests varied in age. The Equator Resort is a clothing optional place to stay, so don’t be surprised to see others lounging around the pool completely naked. For further information, or to make reservations go to equatorresort.com.

LGBT RESOURCES AND EVENTS A stroll to the Gay Key West Visitor Center, operated by the Key West Business Guild, is an excellent place to start your vacation, if nothing else to know where it is and pick up a scattering of publications, brochures, and information catered to LGBT travelers. The staff is more than happy to assist with any questions regarding the area, or to recommend where to go, what to see, and if interested, provide a brief history of the city. A bonus to dropping by the visitor center is free admission

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to the Tennessee Williams Exhibit, situated at the back of the building, that includes personal photographs of the playwright with his partner, original posters from local productions of his works, playbills, and a typewriter he used at his Key West home.

The center is open to everyone, especially the LGBT community, and is easy to locate on Truman Avenue, just off busy Duval Street. For additional information, including a listing of local Gay or Gay-friendly businesses and activities, log onto kwbgonline.org.

Key West Pride happens yearly in the summertime, already scheduled for June 8-12, 2016. A featured slate of events coinciding with Pride, such as the parade and festival, are expected to be announced in the coming months. Look for information at keywestpride.org. “Tropical Heat” is billed as the “hottest” event for men, taking place every August in Key West; dates for next year’s festivities are August 11-14, 2016. All-male themed parties and adultoriented entertainment, plus the attendance by the hottest guys from Southern Florida and beyond, create a very steamy affair. Get further details at tropicalheatkw. com. There’s something for the ladies, too.

“Womenfest” is a female-specific event that welcomes women from around the globe to Key West for four days offering everything from a flag football tournament to booze cruises to pool parties. Dates for the 2016 event have not yet been revealed, but visit womenfest.com for updates. “Fantasty Fest” is a 10-day party in late October that includes a street fair, costume nights, parades, and wild parties to satisfy every fetish; in a nutshell, it’s fun and safe debauchery in paradise. The fest is city-wide with most, if not all, events open to everyone, straight or LGBT. Go to fantasyfest.com to read more about it.

Of the Gay bars in town, the most popular are Bourbon Street Pub, 801 Bourbon

ing Competition takes place on November 25-29 at Casa Marina Resort, and the Old Stone Concert Series Presents: “Messiah” on November 29 at Key West United Methodist Church.

For adventure, I strongly recommend booking a tour with Danger Charters.

From sunset sails to snorkeling and cocktail cruises, this tour company specializes in water adventures for groups or private parties. The tour guides are knowledgeable and fun, as well as young and attractive (which doesn’t hurt), and the excursions last between a couple of hours to half day.

I ventured on the “Sail, Snorkel & Kayak Trip” that included equipment rental, light snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. We spent equal time doing all three activities, however, participating in snorkeling or kayaking is optional; you can just sit on the boat and hang out, if you so choose.

As a novice kayaker, I was delighted that our guide offered to take me in his boat and do all the paddling; we kayaked in 1 to 2 feet of water, which is perfect for those worried about tipping over. I also booked myself on the “Wind & Wine Sunset Sail” that sailed near and around Key West for 2 hours with generous pours of red and white wine, champagne, import and domestic beers, and soft drinks, plus various appetizers. I really enjoyed sailing with these guys; it would be the first thing I do – book another tour with them – upon returning to Key West. To book your adventure, go to dangercharters.com.

The Old Time Trolley Tours’ “Hop on Hop Off” tour is a great way to see much of Key West without having to break a sweat.

You’ll swerve through city streets, beachside communities, and busy thoroughfares in the comfort of window-less trolleys, stopping at various points to let people on or off. For museums, I suggest the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, Ernest Heming-

An aerial photo of Key West, Fla., the Southernmost City in the Continental United States and last of the islands in the Florida Keys island chain connected to the South Florida mainland by the Keys Overseas Highway – Photo by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau

Bar, Aqua Nightclub, and La Te Da, all between the 700 and 1100 blocks on Duval Street.

HOLIDAY EVENTS, ADVENTURES AND SIGHTSEEING If traveling to Key West during the holidays, take note of these special events. The Key West Holiday Fest runs between November 20 and December 25 throughout the city with the lighting of the Harbour Walk of Lights, parade, and tours of decorated inns, the International Sand Sculpt-

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way Home and Museum, and the Harry S. Truman Little White House. For something spooky, the Ghosts and Gravestones Frightseeing Tour is interesting and somewhat chilling. And, for live entertainment, take in a show at either the Red Barn Theatre or Waterfront Playhouse.

For information on all of these, or to get a VIP Pass that includes admisson to each for one price, visit fla-keys.com.

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holiday events continued from page 26

Scrooge work? What ails Tiny Tim? Does Scrooge even get reformed? It’s all up to you in this wild, hilarious, holiday ride. A holiday tradition for countless locals since 1985, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the holidays with friends or family. Tickets: www.unexpectedproductions.org; 206-587-2414.

“Antiques Improv Show.” Dec. 3-18, Thu & Fri @ 8pm. Jet City Improv, Historic University Theatre, 5510 University Way NE. Jet City Improv invites audiences of all ages to learn the hidden and hilarious histories behind their family heirlooms and thrift store discoveries at the world premier of “Antiques Improv Show.” Every performance of this improvised comedy features amusing appraisals for real antiques and curiosities brought on stage by members of the audience, as well as an uproarious reenactment of each item’s journey through history. Audiences are invited to bring objects of any shape, size, age, and origin, even if they are not obviously valuable or antique.

Guests are also encouraged to bring items that they are able to hold in their lap during the entirety of the performance and discouraged from bringing anything truly irreplaceable, as there is always a small risk of an accident when the performers handle the selected objects. The appraised value of each object will be completely fictitious, but every appraisal will put its owner in the running for a real prize at the end of the performance. “Antiques Improv Show” is appropriate for all ages. Special Opening Night Gala on Dec. 3 features a Q&A with the actors followed by complimentary cake and champagne. Tickets: $15 advance ($18 at the door); $12 advance ($15 at the door) for students, seniors, military personnel, and TPS members. http://www.jetcityimprov.org/ CLICK ON BUY TICKETS above main menu.

Beauty and the Beast. Dec. 11-13.

Paramount Theatre, 911 Pine St. The most beautiful love story every told comes to life! The romantic Broadway musical for all generations, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the smash hit Broadway musical, is

coming to Seattle! Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song. Experience the romance and enchantment of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at The Paramount! Tickets: www.tickets. com; 877-STG-4TIX; and in person at the Paramount Box Office.

Holiday investigates some un-holiday-like shenanigans taking place in Christmastown. Add a glamorous elf, a used-Christmas-tree salesman, a muckraking reporter, and a quick-thinking cab driver, and you’ve got the “best new holiday romp of the year!”

(Seattle Times). Tickets: www.seattlepublictheater.org; 206-524-1300.

Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales “Unwrapped.” Nov. 25-Dec. 13. Seattle Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. The stars of 2014’s hit musical revue “The Vaudevillians” are back with more tunes and more laughs, this time with mistletoe! Drag performers Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales return to the Leo K. Stage for a special engagement that is perfect for those looking for an off-kilter, off-color holiday show. So drag yourself to the theatre for big cheer!

Tickets: $42-$62. www.seattlerep.org; 206443-2222.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.

Dec. 12-24. Seattle Public Theater, 7312 W. Greenlake Dr. N. The delightfully horrible Herdman clan descends on the Bathhouse for their 15th consecutive year, turning a pedestrian pageant into sidesplitting chaos and bringing new life to an old tradition. Featuring a cast of young actors alongside adult professionals, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is the not-to-be-missed holiday favorMary Poppins. Dec. 4-20. Bainbridge ite for families and kids of all ages. Tickets: Performing Arts, 200 Madison Ave. N, $5-$32. www.seattlepublictheater.org; 206- Bainbridge Island. Everyone’s favorite prac524-1300. tically-perfect nanny takes the stage in this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Nov. 5 -Dec. adventure. Disney & Cameron Mackin27. Seattle Children’s Theatre, 201 Thomas tosh’s Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixSt. A new musical version of the beloved ture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs English story. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, (“A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Supercalifragiliswe love you! Just in time for the holidays, ticexpialidocious,” “Chim Chim Cher-Ee,” SCT presents this sparkling musical, based and more), breathtaking dance numbers, on the MGM motion picture version of Ian and astonishing stagecrafYt. Fleming’s book. Come see this imaginative One of the most popular Disney movtale filled with memorable, quirky charac- ies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole ters, and, of course, Chitty the “fantasmago- new way: as a positively perfect musical! rical” car. Cheer on the devoted father and Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts, and his classic Walt Disney film, Disney & Camchildren, Jemima and Jeremy, as they plot eron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins delighted to rescue Grandpa Potts and the children of Broadway audiences for over 2,500 perforVulgaria from the dastardly Baron and Bar- mances and received nominations for nine oness Bomburst. Join us for a marvelous, Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including musical holiday event! If you enjoyed James Best Musical. Tickets: $19-27. www.bainand the Giant Peach and The Wizard of Oz, bridgeperformingarts.org; 206-842-8569 you will love this fantastic adventure. Tickets: www.sct.org; 206-441-3322.

My Fair Lady. Nov. 5-Jan. 3. Village Theatre, 303 Front St. N., Issaquah. One of Christmastown: A Holiday Noire. the greatest Broadway musicals of all time, Dec. 3-24. Seattle Public Theater, 7312 W. revel in the story of a lowly Cockney flower Greenlake Dr. N. In this film noir-inspired girl as she transforms into a sophisticated holiday thriller by Seattle playwright lady – with the help of a linguistics teacher Wayne Rawley, hard-boiled detective Nick who will get a bit more than he bargained for. Based on George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion, this beloved musical for the whole family boasts a score of hummable classics such as “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?”

“I Could Have Danced All Night,” and “On The Street Where You Live.” Directed by Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winning writer and Village Theatre regular Brian Yorkey, My Fair Lady will be full of all the glamour and style you expect to see at Village Theatre over the holidays. Tickets: www.villagetheatre.org; 425-392-2202.

(Run continues Jan. 8-31 at Everett Performing Arts Center, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. www.villagetheatre.org; 425-2578600.)

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Nov. 28-Dec. 28. Pacific Northwest Ballet, Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer St. A new/old holiday tradition comes to Seattle! Pacific Northwest Ballet is excited to premiere the centerpiece of its 2015-2016 season, a sparkling new production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker featuring eye-popping colorful sets and costumes designed by author/ illustrator Ian Falconer. PNB’s new production still features Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed live by the mighty PNB Orchestra, and the beloved story of Clara, her Nutcracker prince, and a magical journey to delight audiences both young and old. “As a ten-year-old boy, I stepped onto the stage for the first time as a member of the cast of George Balanchine’s Nutcracker,” said PNB Artistic Director Peter Boal.

“The magic of this production was evident from that moment on, and now to have the

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November 20, 2015

opportunity to bring it to Seattle audiences wrapped in the brilliance of Ian Falconer’s designs is a dream come true.” Tickets: $25$156. 206-441-2424; www.pnb.org She Loves Me. Dec. 4-20. Seattle Musical Theatre, Magnuson Park Building 47, 7120 62nd Ave. NE. As a parfumerie store readies itself for the Christmas rush, a store clerk and a salesgirl are constantly at odds, but are unaware that they are conducting an anonymous romantic correspondence. This charming musical is adapted from the Jimmy Stewart film The Shop Around the Corner and the basis for the 1998 movie You’ve Got Mail. Musical gems include “Twelve Days ‘Til Christmas,” “Dear Friend” and “Ice Cream.” Tickets: $30-$35. www.seattlemusicaltheatre. org; 206-363-2809.

Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol. Dec. 4-19, Thurs., 7:30pm; Fri. & Sat., 8pm; Sun., 2pm. Renton Civic Theatre, 507 S 3rd St., Renton.

Tickets: 425-226-5529 or visit rentoncivictheatre.org.

Rogers & Hammerstein’s Sound of Music: Live on Stage. Nov. 24-Jan. 3. 5th Avenue Theatre, 1308 5th Avenue. Long before Julie Andrews sang from the mountaintops in the legendary 1965 film, The Sound of Music captured the imagination of theatergoers world-wide. This story of the young governess Maria, who brings muchneeded tenderness and joy to the von Trapp family, has everything – romance, danger, bravery, and love. Tickets: www.5thavenue. org; 206-625-1900.

This Christmas. Nov. 20-Dec. 26. Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St. Leah plans the perfect Christmas, but her husband is preoccupied, an inept waitress could spoil everything, and Christmas Eve rapidly spins out of control as uninvited guests show up. Will this be the worst Christmas ever, or will Leah open her heart to new ways of celebrating the moments that make life beautiful? Please note: If you would like to purchase a Dinner and Show Package on Dec. 2 please call the Box Office at 206781-9707. Dinner and Show Package tickets are not available online. Please notify the Box Office of any dietary restrictions when purchasing tickets. Tickets: www.taproottheatre.org; 206-781-9707.

Wonderful Life. Dec. 3-27. ArtsWest, 4711 California Ave. SW. George Bailey’s struggle to grasp why life is worth living finds a fresh voice in this enchanting oneperson retelling of Frank Capra’s classic film It’s a Wonderful Life. Penned by Helen Pafumi and Jason Lott, this memory play introduces audiences to the residents of Bedford Falls, New York on a fateful Christmas Eve in 1945. Wonderful Life – 2012’s Helen Hayes Award Nominee for Outstanding New Play or Musical – is a heart-warming story about the effect one hardworking man’s life has on the people around him. Tickets: $17-$37.50. www.artswest.org; 206-938-0339.

Can Can presents: “Wonderland – A Carnival of Winter Wonder.” Nov. 13Jan. 31. Can Can in the Historic Pike Place Market, 94 Pike St. Celebrate the holidays as our cast of A-list performers swing from the chandeliers into a new show full of classic beauty and flirtatious artistry. It’ll be a glittering parade of nostalgia, exploding with dance, laughter, and all the cheer of yesteryear. Tickets: $30-$85. 206-6520832; www.thecancan.com.

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