360 January 22, 2015

‘ROMEO & JULIET: THE MUSICAL’ PLAYS THE LINCOLN IN MOUNT VERNON ON STAGE, PAGE 8

Skagit Valley Herald Thursday January 22, 2015

THIS WEEKEND Antiques Discovery event set for Saturday in Mount Vernon PAGE 3

TUNING UP The Troy Fair Band plays the Edison Inn on Saturday night

PAGE 9

MUSIC REVIEWS Meghan Trainor, Mark Ronson, The Decemberists PAGE 15

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, January 22, 2015

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Music Reviews................................... 15 ON THE COVER Dylan Kane is Romeo and Katherine Fisher is Juliet in “Romeo and Juliet: The Musical,” which opens Jan. 30 at the Lincoln Theatre. For details, see On Stage on Page 8. Lindsey Bowen photo

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SUBMISSIONS Email features@skagitpublishing.com Deadline: 5 p.m. Friday for the following Thursday edition Phone 360-416-2135 Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274 Mailing address P.O. Box 578 Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Online events calendar To list your event on our website, visit goskagit.com and look for the Events Calendar on the home page HAVE A STORY IDEA? Contact Features Editor Craig Parrish at 360-416-2135 or features@skagitpublishing.com TO ADVERTISE 360-424-3251

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015 - E3

THIS WEEKENDin the area CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH NATURE Codi Hamblin, Program Outreach coordinator at North Cascades Institute, along with Group Program coordinator Andriana Fletcher, will present “All About the North Cascades Institute” at 6:30 p.m. today, Jan. 22, at the Mount Vernon City Library, 315 Snoqualmie St., Mount Vernon. Learn about the organization’s work to connect people, nature and community in Skagit Valley, and how you can get involved. Free. 360-336-6209 or mountvernonwa.gov/library.

TIMEBANK SOCIAL Fidalgo and Friends TimeBank Social & Potluck will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. today, Jan. 22, at the Anacortes Center for Happiness: 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Bring a potluck dish to share and your own place settings. transitionfidalgo.org.

Winter film series Enjoy free film screenings at 7 p.m. Fridays at the Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Films will be introduced

by Movie Man Nick Alphin. Free. 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library. cityofanacortes.org. Next up: Jan 23: “The King of Masks” (drama): An aging street performer, master of Sichuan Change Art, yearns for an heir to inherit the secrets of his art. He finds a candidate that has a profound and unexpected effect upon his life.

TRAIL BUILDERS Mount Vernon Trail Builders seeks volunteers to help with trail building and maintenance at Little Mountain Park in Mount Vernon.

Planned projects include a new trail and bicycle skills park. Family-friendly work sessions are held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays, rain or shine. Lunch, snacks, tools and training provided.

360-336-6215 (Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation) or mountvernontrailbuilders. com.

ANTIQUES DISCOVERY The American Association of University Women will hold the eighth annual Antiques Discovery event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland St. Have your antique goods evaluated by certified appraisers. $15 per item; limit three items. Proceeds support scholarships for area students. Registration required: 360-422-5341.

E4 - Thursday, January 22, 2015

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

MOVIES

H

e knows that when he enters a room, his reputation precedes him. At age 74, with a long and legendary career behind him, he’s well aware that he can easily intimidate people.

They look at him and see Michael Corleone from “The Godfather,” Sonny Wortzik from “Dog Day Afternoon,” Tony Montana from “Scarface,” Ricky Roma from “Glengarry Glen Ross.” Eight Oscar nominations and one win.

Two Tonys. Two Emmys.

He’s Al Pacino!

He knows all of this. He feels it every day. And yet, even after all these years, it still somehow seems to surprise him.

“When I talk to people, no matter where I go, they want to talk about things I’ve done,” Pacino said on a recent afternoon. He paused. “That’s so interesting to me. People ask me about the ’70s — sometimes I just say, ‘I don’t remember the ’70s!’”

In person, Pacino goes out of his way to put others at ease, to shrink himself to human size. (That he’s only 5-foot-7 helps.)

Shy by nature, in his early years of superstardom he built a protective wall around himself and could come across as remote and inscrutable.

But over the years he’s become more at ease with being a public figure. Now he doesn’t mind doing interviews. He seems interested in reflecting on his own life and work and has even appeared on stage around the country in the past year in a one-man show, sharing stories and answering audience members’ questions. “It’s just talking,” he said.

He smiles frequently. He cracks jokes. He’s comfortable showing vulnerability, pulling himself out of his

the film is based, Axler’s descent into despair is unremittingly grim. But Pacino, who is a longtime fan of Roth’s and optioned the book, saw the potential for dark comedy in the aging actor’s plight and brought on director Barry Levinson and screenwriter Buck Henry to help draw it out.

“We thought it needed to be funnier,” he said.

“That would help buoy up this dirge, this tragic journey. Otherwise, who would want to watch that?” Loose and occasionally surreal, the film was made for just $2 million, with much of the filming done in Levinson’s Connecticut home.

“We felt like we had to do it on the run, so to speak,” Pacino said. “I like working that way.”

Al Pacino (center) is shown Pacino has certainly in a scene “The Humbling.” earned the right to parachute into a movie and just coast on his Pacino-ness — and, in fact, though he’s managed to hold on to a greater degree of dignity than some of his peers, he has been accused of occasionally doing that. (“Pacino looks half asleep throughout, no doubt concentrating solely on his cheque,” one British critic Story by JOSH ROTTENBERG / Los Angeles Times t Photo courtesy Alchemy via TNS wrote of his work in the 2008 thriller “88 Minutes.”)

But Levinson — who seat at one point with a am I going to do?’ There of time: the memory going, ics have praised Pacino’s first met the actor in 1979 wince and pacing around to are some times I just can’t the stamina going, the tools performance as one of when they worked together alleviate the pain of a long- put anything on that caneroding,” Pacino said. “The his best in years, on par on the courtroom drama standing rotator cuff injury. vas. I either get lucky or I panic sets in and the break- with his similarly nuanced “… And Justice for All,” (“When it flares up, I’m not just don’t do it well.” down comes when he real- turns on the small screen which Levinson co-wrote, too fun to be around.”)

In the new film “The izes, ‘What will I do with as Jack Kevorkian in the Where some may see Humbling,” which opens my life? How will I live?’ ” 2010 HBO film “You Don’t and later directed him in “You Don’t Know Jack” an icon, he says he sees Friday after a brief OscarAs an actor himself, Know Jack” and as Phil — said Pacino isn’t one to himself as just a working qualifying run last month, Pacino can certainly relate Spector in a 2013 HBO phone in a performance. actor who’s trying to get it Pacino plays an aging actor to Simon on some level, but movie on the notorious “He has such an appetite right — and not always suc- who finds himself unable he’s quick to put distance record producer, who was to learn, to try, to expericeeding. to put anything on the can- between himself and the convicted in 2009 of mur“When I do a part, it’s vas. Deep into a career as role. “That’s one of the dering actress Lana Clark- ment,” Levinson said.

“He’s not locked into his an empty canvas,” he said. an acclaimed stage actor, reasons I took my name off son. In The Times, Gary ways. He jumps in, and he’s “I don’t know anything Pacino’s Simon Axler sud- as a producer,” he said. “I Goldstein called Pacino’s willing to sink or swim. about acting. I’m not exag- denly feels his talents and thought, ‘Gee, they’re going turn in “The Humbling” There is no caution to gerating. I must know a lot his desires — and his grip to think it’s this biography “inventive, dizzying, proabout acting if I’ve done it on reality — starting to slip of me.’ ” found and often hilarious.” the work, and that’s what makes it so exciting to this much, but I don’t feel away.

Though the film has In the original 2009 like I know it. I go, ‘What “He’s feeling the ravages earned mixed reviews, crit- Philip Roth novel on which work with him.”

At 74, Al Pacino is still chasing that next great role

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015 - E5

OUT & ABOUT

SCULPTURE, PAINTINGS, AND PHOTOS

uses his background in construction as well as his life experiences to create his artwork. He endeavors to change his medium and materials every month, utilizing everything from garbage to scrap wood to children’s toys, to create work that forces viewers to see the world around them in new ways.

The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

360-766-6230 or smithand vallee.com.

“A FESTIVE COLLECTION”: Check out a collection of new paintings

by Anne Martin McCool, McCool Gallery artists and guests continuing through January, at 711 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Participating artists include Peter Belknap and Cathy Schoenberg, paintings; Tracy Powell, sculptures; Stephen Roxborough and Bryce Mann, photography; Patsy Chamberlain, Cathy Schoenberg, Marguerite Goff and Barbara Hathaway, ceramics; George Way and Art Learmonth, wood; Carole Cunningham and Debbie Aldrich, jewelry; Martha Tottenham, handwoven scarves; Jane Hyde, baskets; Vicki Hampel, gourd art; and other artists.

Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through A show of artwork by David Eisenhour, Todd J. Horton, Ed Kamuda and Norman E. Riley continues through Feb. 22 at Gallery Cygnus, 109 Commercial St., La Saturday. 360-293-3577 or Conner. Also on display are new paintings by Maggie Wilder and sculptures by annemartinmccool.com.

BILL BALL “FIREBALL”: A show of abstract expressionist and surrealist paintings by longtime Skagit County resident Bill Ball continues through January at the Rexville Grocery, 19271 Best Road, Mount Vernon. 360-466-5522 or rexvillegrocery.com.

ART PAINTINGS AT THE ART BAR: Original artwork

by La Conner artist Dee Doyle is on display through Jan. 31 at the Lincoln Theatre Art Bar, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. Doyle’s watercolor, mixed media, acrylic and encaustic paintings have been displayed at a number of regional art shows, including La Conner’s Annual Art’s Alive!

360-336-8955 or lincoln theatre.org.

tree stump, the artists invite the viewer to witness the elegance of a tiger lily or the husky texture of mosscovered bark.

“Adrianne Smits: Immersion Redux: Buiten (Outside)”: Smits’ painting style invokes similarities to artists of the “mystic painters” movement in the Northwest, such as Mark Tobey, Morris Graves and Guy Anderson. Smits says, “In larger compositions I interpret and emphasize visual details from my encounters with nature in order to communicate the complexity of natural systems beyond their cursory picturesque value.”

NEW QUILT SHOWS: Three new shows continue through March 29 at the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, 703 S. Second St., NORTHWEST ART: La Conner: Three new exhibits contin“Night Thoughts with ue through March 11 at the Larkin Van Horn”: A Museum of Northwest Art, couple years ago, Van Horn 121 S. First St., La Conner. started keeping a notebook Museum hours are 10 a.m. near her bed to jot down to 5 p.m. Tuesday through stray ideas in the night.

Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.

Sometimes she’d wake up Sunday and Monday. Free to find unintelligible scribadmission. 360-466-4446 or blings that made no sense, monamuseum.org. and some ideas were just “Still Life from the Per- plain weird. But what did manent Collection”: Exhi- emerge were some recurbitions director Lisa Young ring themes that turned examines interiors through into the short series prethe historically rich tradisented in this exhibit: Shattion of the still life. Recent tered Circles, Labyrinths acquisitions are featured, and Celtic Spirals, Gaia/ Clayton James. New to the gallery is Bellingham photographer Norman E. Riley, along with works by Mark Goddess Figures and Trees, who creates an aesthetic conundrum, requiring each assemblage he photographs Tobey, Walter Isaacs, as well as a collection of JENNIFER BOWMAN: to contain the same three qualities. Gallery hours are noon to 5 p.m. Friday Maxine Martell, Spencer nonseries works on a variACRYLICS: The show through Sunday, 360-708-4787 or gallerycygnus.com. Pictured: Todd J Horton, Moseley and contempoety of themes. Van Horn continues through Jan. 27 “Flight by Starlight” rary artists drawn from the sometimes dyes or paints at Scott Milo Gallery, 420 museum’s permanent colher own fabrics, but also Commercial Ave., Analection. uses commercial batiks.

Dana. The gallery is open Vallee Gallery, 5742 Gilkey ist in the late 1990s after cortes. The exhibition fea“A Tree is a Kind of Big Placing design elements submitting artwork to tures Bowman’s brilliantly from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ave., Edison. The show Monday through Saturday features artwork by local Thrasher Magazine and to Flower: Flora C. Mace and on top of the backgrounds colored floral, landscape — whole cloth or fused skateboarding legend Matt friends at Mervin Mfg. He Joey Kirkpatrick”: Mace and nautical paintings. Also or by appointment. 360and Kirkpatrick present collage — she adds stitch293-6938 or scottmilo.com. French and Smith & Vallee has been making art ever showing: acrylics by Cyning and embellishments, Woodworks’ own Pieter since as a contributing art- botanical sculptures and thia Richardson, oils and sensitive casein paintings often incorporating fibers NEW WORK: An exhiVanZanden. ist for Volcom, Vans, Gnu, pastels by Amanda Housthat pay homage to their or beadwork in the finished bition of new work by French grew up riding Lib Tech and more. ton, photo encaustics by deep reverence for the piece.

Matt French and Pieter skateboards and snowVanZanden, who was Kathy Hastings, and phooutside world. By capturing VanZanden continues boards in Lynden, and got born in Coupeville and tography by Lewis Jones, the essence of a flower or a Continued on Page E6 through Jan. 25 at Smith & his start as a working artgrew up in Oak Harbor, Dick Garvey and Randy

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, January 22, 2015

OUT & ABOUT “Freddy Moran’s Collage”: Artist and author Frederica “Freddy” Duffy Moran is known for her unbridled use of bold color and original designs.

Moran’s love for quiltmaking began later in life, at age 60, after she had excelled at other art forms. Her quilts have appeared in national and international publications, including magazines, art books, calendars, textbooks and quilt books. She is the author of “Freddy’s House: Brilliant Color in Quilts” and co-author of “Collaborative Quilting” with Gwen Marston.

“Antique Embroidered Quilts”: Crazy quilts, Redwork, Bluework and cross-stitch embroidered quilts are included in this exhibition. Crazy quilts were popular from 1880-1920s; the earlier quilts are often made of silk fabrics and embellished with a variety

Family Concert Skagit Symphony

January 25

Metales M5 Mexico’s leading Brass Quintet

February 3

Las Cafeteras Afro-Mexican rhythms & hip-hop beats from LA

February 6

360.416.7727 mcintyrehall.org

of embroidery stitches. Redwork embroidery became popular for linens and quilts by the end of the 19th century. Embroidery continued in the 1930s with a large variety of patterns made available through newspapers, magazines and by mail order. After World War II, cross-stitch kit quilts rose in popularity.

The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Admission: $7, $5 students and military with ID, free for members and ages 11 and younger.

360-466-4288 or laconner quilts.org.

Western Washington University’s Huxley College of the Environment Speaker Series, at 4 p.m. today, Jan. 22, in Communications Facility room 120 at Western Washington University in Bellingham. Loranger will discuss current challenges and successes in managing the needs of diverse groups that compete for Washington’s water resources, including our rapidly growing populace, the sustainable agriculture community, and the sport, commercial and tribal fishing communities.

Free. 360-650-2554.

omish Tribal senator and Health/Education/Social Services Committee chair from the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community; and Adam Lorio of the Samish Indian Nation. The public is invited. 360-232-6026.

Activity Center, 1701 22nd Ave., Anacortes. Suggested donation: $5 adult, $3 ages 10 and younger. Bring your own bowl, cup and place settings. transitionfidalgo.org.

of displays, demonstrations, vendors and door prizes.

Free admission. 360-2794580.

TULIP FEST AMBASSADOR EVENT: One boy ILLUMINIGHT WINTER and one girl will be selected WALK: Learn to create as the 2015 Tulip Festival a paper lantern and then Ambassadors at 5 p.m. TuesMORE FUN enjoy a 15-20 minute wellday, Feb. 10, at the Cascade GAME NIGHTS: The ness walk along the Skagit Mall center court, 201 CasUpper Skagit Library Riverwalk from 4 to 6 cade Mall Drive, Burlington.

District is holding a free p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, in The public is invited to weekly Board Game Night downtown Mount Vernon. watch as fourth- and fifthfor all ages from 5 to 8 p.m. Instructions and lantern grade boys and girls from Fridays, through Feb. 27, at creation begin at 4 p.m. at Skagit County compete for 5b’s Bakery, 45597 Main St., Tri-Dee Arts, 215 S. First the honor based on their Concrete. Team Trivia Night St., followed by the walk responses to questions from will take place Friday, Feb. 6. south along the Riverwalk the judges. The winners will Guests can enjoy hot drinks, at 5 p.m., ending at Ristretto represent the festival at MEET THE COMPOSER: baked goods and ice cream for hot chocolate and apple events around the county ART & DESIGN OPEN Take advantage of two for sale. 360-853-7939 or cider. The free community and beyond. Student appliHOUSE: The Gail Harker opportunities to hear comupperskagit.lib.wa.us. event is presented by the cations must be submitted Center for Creative Arts will poser Conrad Askland disMount Vernon Downtown by 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5. host an open house from 1 cuss his new musical adapHISTORIC EXHIBIT: Association in conjunction For information or an applito 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, tation of William Shake“Death Becomes Her: with Mayor Boudreau’s cation, contact the Tulip Fesat 12636 Chilberg Road, speare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Mourning Fashions” conWinter Wellness Week. For tival office at 360-428-5959 just outside La Conner. with performances set for tinues through March 15 at information, contact Cathy or tulipfestival.org.

Check out the multimedia Jan. 30-Feb. 15 at the LinStevens at 425-321-7433. artwork and sketchbooks of coln Theatre in Mount Ver- the Skagit County Historical Museum, 501 S. Fourth FREE MOVIE: The Skagit Certificate in Art & Design non. Askland is the music St., La Conner. The exhibit LOCAL MEDICAL HISValley Food Co-op will host students who have just director for “Rock of Ages” features mourning items TORY: “Doctor, Doctor: a free screening of “Fed Up” completed two and a half with Norwegian Cruise Line from the museum’s collecA History of Healing in at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. years of study with Harker. in New York, former music tion. Museum hours are Skagit County” will run Jan. 11, at 202 S. First St., Mount Visit with the students and director with Cirque Du 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday Vernon. “Upending the learn about their artistic Soleil, and composer of the through Sunday. Admission: 30-April 12 at the Skagit County Historical Museum, conventional wisdom of why journey and themes they’ve musicals “Witches!” and $5 adults, $4 seniors and 501 S. Fourth St., La Conner. we gain weight and how to explored. Free. 360-466-0110 “PAN.” ages 6-12, $10 families, free lose it, ‘Fed Up’ unearths a or gailcreativestudies.com. n 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, for members and ages 5 and The exhibit will showcase items from the museum’s dirty secret of the American Mount Vernon City Library, younger. 360-466-3365 or permanent collection relat- food industry — far more of JURIED ART EXHIBIT: 315 Snoqualmie St., Mount skagitcounty.net/museum. ing to dentistry, surgery, vin- us get sick from what we eat Meet the artists of the Vernon. 360-336-6209 or tage medications and even than anyone has previously Spring Juried Exhibit during mountvernonwa.gov/library.

SEATTLE BOAT SHOW: veterinary medicine.

Also realized. Filmmaker Stephaan opening reception from n 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, The 68th annual Seattle on display will be a variety nie Soechtig and TV jour6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. Anacortes Public Library, Boat Show will run Jan. of artifacts from Northern nalist Katie Couric lead us 5, at the Jansen Art Center, 1220 10th St., Anacortes.

23-Feb. 1 at CenturyLink State Hospital.

Museum through this potent expose 321 Front St., Lynden. The 360-293-1910, ext. 21, or Field and South Lake hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. that uncovers why generaexhibition will showcase the library.cityofanacortes.org.

Union, with free shuttle Tuesday through Sunday. tions of American children work of artists from around service between venues.

Admission: $5 adults, $4 will live shorter lives than the region. The show will For a complete schedule, seniors and ages 6-12, $10 their parents did,” according continue through May. 360- MUSIC DRUMBEATS: Indigenous admission costs and more families, free for members to a news release. 360-336354-3600 or jansenartcenter.

Voices of the Valley”: Skagit information, visit seattle and ages 5 and younger. 360- 9777 or skagitfoodcoop.com. org. boatshow.com.

Valley College will host a 466-3365 or skagitcounty. panel of Native American net/museum.

VALENTINE’S DAY LECTURES FOSSIL FUEL EXPORTS: tribal leaders for a discusDANCE: Dance to the big AND TALKS Matt Krogh will present sion of contemporary culGEM SHOW: The 50th band music of Camano “Fossil Fuel Exports and the annual Sweetheart of Gems Junction from 7 to 10 p.m.

WATER RESOURCES tural topics at 11:30 a.m.

MANAGEMENT: Tom Show will be held from 9 Saturday, Feb. 14, at Camano today, Jan. 22, at 2405 E. Col- Northwest: Why our thin green line of resistance is Loranger of the Washinga.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Center, 606 Arrowhead lege Way, Angst Hall room so important” at Transition ton State Department of Sunday, Feb. 7-8, at the Oak Road, Camano Island. $15, 129, Mount Vernon. Panel Harbor Senior Activity Cen- includes snacks. No-host bar Ecology will discuss water members will include Tracy Fidalgo’s next 7th Generater, 51 SE Jerome St., Oak available. 360-387-0222 or resources management James, Swinomish Education tion Supper at 6 p.m. TuesHarbor. Check out a variety camanocenter.org. director; Brian Wilbur, Swin- day, Jan. 27, at the Senior in Washington as part of

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015 - E7

TRAVEL FAMILY TRAVEL FIVE

Heed call of the wild or take a horse-drawn carriage from the historic inn. chicohotsprings.com; absaroTake time to learn about kadogsledtreks.com the animals and commands 2. McMillan, Michigan: that are part of a dog sled Meet seven-time Iditarod adventure. Here are five to finisher Ed Stielstra, his consider. wife, Tasha, and their team 1. Paradise Valley, Mon- of 135 Alaskan huskies. tana: Lead dogs Thunder Drive a dog team or relax in and Quila will pull your sled the sled through the pristine through the snowy wonwilderness of Michigan’s derland of the Absaroka Upper Peninsula. Spend a Mountain wilderness east of few hours or overnight with Montana’s scenic Paradise your team for a star-filled Valley. Layer up and choose adventure. Add to the winter a half- or full-day adventure. adventure with snow tubYour family will learn how ing, skiing or snowshoeing to encourage these Alaskan to the ice caves in nearby huskies along the trail. A Marquette. All-inclusive three-day mushing school packages are available. is also offered. Later, relax natureskennel.com in the steamy waters at 3. Quebec, Canada: Dog Chico Hot Springs Resort sledding is popular throughBy LYNN O’ROURKE HAYES The Dallas Morning News

Local travel TRAVEL TALKS: Anacortes

Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes, will host the following talks: “More Lesser-Known Parks”: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28. Explorer Roxanne Parish features more of the relatively unknown National Park treasures of the U.S. “Wild Encounters: The Sacred & Profane”: 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 4. Author, photographer and naturalist Christina Nealson shares tales and images of wildlife she encountered during a 10-year RV odyssey.

“Researching a Backcountry Book”: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11. Fishing author John E. Moore presents a slideshow of Washington, Idaho and Montana backcountry he visited while doing research for his fishing and hiking books.

All talks are free. 360-2931910, ext. 21, or library. cityofanacortes.org.

CRUISE SEMINAR: A free presentation highlighting Viking Cruises will be held

at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at AAA Travel and Cruise, 1600 E. College Way, Suite A, Mount Vernon.

RSVP: 360-848-2090.

Web buzz It’s as if your coolest cousin gave you the scoop on the hippest things to do in her city and put it in this app. Quick, give her a large tip before she thinks you’re not worthy of it.

Name: Sosh — City Guide Available: iOS Cost: Free What it does: Acts as a city guide to fun things to do and see (you choose your interests and neighborhood preferences) curated by real

out the snowy regions of Quebec. Choose a tour that lasts several hours or one that lasts several nights. A guided, seven-night adventure will give you the chance to sleep in a teepee, a rustic cabin or in more luxurious digs. For those ready to expend a little more energy, try ski pulka, a combination of dog sledding and crosscountry skiing. bonjourqueing the largest collection of body casts ever presented. $79. Register by Feb. 6.

SHORT TRIPS: Mount Vernon Parks and Recreation SENIOR CENTER TRIPS: offers travel opportunities Skagit County Senior Cenfor ages 8 and older (adult ters offer short escorted supervision required for trips departing from and ages 18 and younger). Trips returning to local senior depart from and return to centers. Call the Anacortes Hillcrest Park, 1717 S. 13th Senior Center at 360-293St., Mount Vernon. For infor7473 or sign up at your mation or to register, call local senior center. Next up: 360-336-6215. Next up: Northwest Flower & Gar Bakeries Galore Tour: den Show: 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

5:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13.

Saturday, Feb. 14. Visit Venture to Seattle to check award-winning bakeries and out the annual gardening gourmet specialty stores extravaganza, with show gar- in the greater Seattle area. dens, dozens of free hortiIncludes exploration of Pike cultural seminars, hundreds Place Market. $55-$57. of marketplace exhibitors Register by Feb. 6. and more. $59. Register by Chinese New Year CelFeb. 4. ebration: Year of the Ram: “Pompeii: The Exhibition” 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, at the Pacific Science Cen- Feb. 22. Check out the 42nd ter in Seattle: 8 a.m. to 5 annual Spring Festival Celp.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18. ebration in Vancouver, B.C. Experience Pompeii before Proof of citizenship (current and after the epic eruption passport, enhanced driver’s of Mount Vesuvius some license or NEXUS card) is 2,000 years ago. Witness required to cross the border. the final moments of those $68-$70. Register by Feb. entombed in ash, includ17.

people gathering info from local weekly magazines, newspapers and niche websites such as Thrillist, Eater, Zagat, 7x7, New York magazine and more. Currently available for Chicago, New York City, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, D.C. What’s hot: The app goes way beyond the usual guidebook recommendations to suggest unique things to do such as eat at a pop-up restaurant, discover the city’s best artisanal cocktails or speak-easies, shop

at a sample sale and more.

I found a sushi-making and sake-pairing workshop in San Francisco on Valentine’s Day under “Date Nights,” Stargazing with Astronomy Enthusiasts in Seattle, Culinary Fight Club: Top Chef Meets Pop-Up in Chicago, and Bespoke Cocktails & Jazz Underground in New York City. Also available: upcoming events by the week and social sharing.

What’s not: It asks you upfront if you’re living in one of its destinations. So I lied

bec.com 4. Fairbanks, Alaska: Journey aboard Alaska Railroad’s Aurora Winter Train to see the snow-covered Last Frontier and embark on a dog-sledding voyage.

Travel from Fairbanks to Coldfoot, near the Gates of the Arctic National Park, to learn about caring for a sled team above the Arctic Circle. In the summer, heli-

copter in to the majestic Chugach Mountains and onto Punch Bowl Glacier to enjoy a scenic ride powered by sled dogs. alaskarailroad. com; travelalaska.com 5. Troy, New Hampshire: Meet the sled dogs from the Muddy Paw Kennel while staying at the Inn at East Hill Farm, a working farm in southern New Hampshire.

With Mount Monadnock as

to get past this velvet rope and start exploring. After all, the chances of me traveling to visit family in either San Francisco or New York are high. When I started looking at other cities, I could say I’m “just browsing” or let them know “I’ve moved there.” Why do they care?

Seems a little nitpicky to me. How about an option instead to request or vote on a new city? n Jen Leo, Los Angeles Times

your backdrop, help harness the team ahead of a 30-minute ride into the woods.

Throughout your stay, hang out with the animals and collect eggs, groom the pony, and help milk the cow and goat. The all-inclusive experience includes three meals and an extensive list of family-friendly activities.

1-800-242-6495; east-hillfarm.com

E8 Thursday, January 22, 2015

Thursday, January 22, 2015 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area January 23-February 1

TUNING UP Playing at area venues January 22-28

Friday.23 THEATER

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

THURSDAY.24 TROY FAIR BAND 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

Saturday.24 THEATER

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: Whidbey Improv Team, 6:30 p.m., Best Western Plus Harbor Plaza & Conference Center, 33175 Highway 20, Oak Harbor. Dress as your favorite comic book hero; prizes for best individual and group costumes. $38, $65 couple. 360-6794567 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

THURSDAY.24 KNUT BELL AND THE BLUE COLLARS 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-755-3956.

Sunday.25 MUSIC

Family Concert: Skagit Symphony, 2 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $10 adults, free for ages 15 and younger. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

RJB photo

Lindsey Bowen photo

THEATER

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

FRIDAY-SATURDAY.30-31 “ROMEO & JULIET: THE MUSICAL” 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. Check individual listings for ticket prices. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Thursday.29 THEATER

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Friday.30

Saturday.31

Sunday.1

DESSERT THEATER

DESSERT THEATER

THEATER

“The Rainmaker” (romantic comedy): Alger Lookout Thespian Association (ALTA), 7 p.m., Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Alger. $12-$14. 360-424-5144 or altatheatre.com.

“The Rainmaker” (romantic comedy): Alger Lookout Thespian Association (ALTA), 7 p.m., Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Alger. $12-$14. 360-424-5144 or altatheatre.com.

THEATER

THEATER

“Romeo & Juliet: The Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $10-$22. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Romeo & Juliet: The Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. Festival seating; all tickets $10, available at the door two hours before curtain. 360-336-8955 or lincoln theatre.org.

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

FRIDAY.23

THURSDAY.22 Slim Fat Lips (roots, blues, classic rock): 5 to 8 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley.

360-982-2649.

I Will Fight With Lions, Cellars and Attics, Cadence: 9:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $3.

360-778-1067.

Conway West, The Dovetails: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway.

360-445-3000.

Expertease (’80s, ’90s, current top 40 rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448.

Marcia Kester: 6:30 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

360-848-8882.

Jimmy Wright: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon.

360-422-6411.

Gentri Watson (Americana, country): 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner.

360-399-1805.

Andrew Norsworthy: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Expertease (’80s, ’90s, current top 40 rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448.

Tayla Lynn (country): 6:30 p.m., Eagles Lodge ballroom, 901 Seventh St., Anacortes. $20 advance, $25 day of show. 425-303-1848.

Jimmy Wright: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon.

360-422-6411.

John Delorme: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-3991805.

Knut Bell and the Blue Collars: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-755-3956.

Troy Fair Band: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

Deadly D, Cruel As Kidz, Double B & Laces: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6. 360-778-1067.

SATURDAY.24 El Norte: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $7. 360-4453000.

SUNDAY.25 Country Dave: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, Gary B’s Church of Blues: 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-766-6266.

360-445-4733.

WEDNESDAY.28 Fidalgo Swing: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720.

E8 Thursday, January 22, 2015

Thursday, January 22, 2015 E9

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area January 23-February 1

TUNING UP Playing at area venues January 22-28

Friday.23 THEATER

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

THURSDAY.24 TROY FAIR BAND 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

Saturday.24 THEATER

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: Whidbey Improv Team, 6:30 p.m., Best Western Plus Harbor Plaza & Conference Center, 33175 Highway 20, Oak Harbor. Dress as your favorite comic book hero; prizes for best individual and group costumes. $38, $65 couple. 360-6794567 or whidbeyplayhouse.com.

THURSDAY.24 KNUT BELL AND THE BLUE COLLARS 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-755-3956.

Sunday.25 MUSIC

Family Concert: Skagit Symphony, 2 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $10 adults, free for ages 15 and younger. 360-416-7727, ext. 2, or mcintyrehall.org.

RJB photo

Lindsey Bowen photo

THEATER

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

FRIDAY-SATURDAY.30-31 “ROMEO & JULIET: THE MUSICAL” 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. Check individual listings for ticket prices. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Thursday.29 THEATER

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Friday.30

Saturday.31

Sunday.1

DESSERT THEATER

DESSERT THEATER

THEATER

“The Rainmaker” (romantic comedy): Alger Lookout Thespian Association (ALTA), 7 p.m., Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Alger. $12-$14. 360-424-5144 or altatheatre.com.

“The Rainmaker” (romantic comedy): Alger Lookout Thespian Association (ALTA), 7 p.m., Alger Community Church, 1475 Silver Run Lane, Alger. $12-$14. 360-424-5144 or altatheatre.com.

THEATER

THEATER

“Romeo & Juliet: The Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $10-$22. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

“Romeo & Juliet: The Musical”: 7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. Festival seating; all tickets $10, available at the door two hours before curtain. 360-336-8955 or lincoln theatre.org.

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

Neil Simon’s “Rumors” (comedy): 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or acttheatre.com.

FRIDAY.23

THURSDAY.22 Slim Fat Lips (roots, blues, classic rock): 5 to 8 p.m., The Woolley Market, 829 Metcalf St., Sedro-Woolley.

360-982-2649.

I Will Fight With Lions, Cellars and Attics, Cadence: 9:30 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $3.

360-778-1067.

Conway West, The Dovetails: 7:30 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway.

360-445-3000.

Expertease (’80s, ’90s, current top 40 rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448.

Marcia Kester: 6:30 p.m., Mount Vernon Elks, 2120 Market St., Mount Vernon.

360-848-8882.

Jimmy Wright: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon.

360-422-6411.

Gentri Watson (Americana, country): 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner.

360-399-1805.

Andrew Norsworthy: 8 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-588-1720.

Expertease (’80s, ’90s, current top 40 rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort, Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. 877-275-2448.

Tayla Lynn (country): 6:30 p.m., Eagles Lodge ballroom, 901 Seventh St., Anacortes. $20 advance, $25 day of show. 425-303-1848.

Jimmy Wright: 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Big Lake Bar & Grill, 18247 Highway 9, Mount Vernon.

360-422-6411.

John Delorme: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Anelia’s Kitchen & Stage, 513 S. First St., La Conner. 360-3991805.

Knut Bell and the Blue Collars: 7:30 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes.

360-755-3956.

Troy Fair Band: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover.

360-766-6266.

Deadly D, Cruel As Kidz, Double B & Laces: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $6. 360-778-1067.

SATURDAY.24 El Norte: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $7. 360-4453000.

SUNDAY.25 Country Dave: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, Gary B’s Church of Blues: 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. Jam night, 6 to 10 p.m., Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway.

360-766-6266.

360-445-4733.

WEDNESDAY.28 Fidalgo Swing: 6 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-588-1720.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E10 - Thursday, January 22, 2015

GET INVOLVED AUDITIONS

CLOG DANCING FOR BEGINNERS: Free lesson TULIP FEST AMBASSA- from 10 to 11 a.m., folDORS: Fourth- and fifthlowed by regular clog dancgrade boys and girls from ing from 11 a.m. to noon Skagit County can compete Thursdays, Mount Vernon to be selected as the 2015 Senior Center, 1401 CleveTulip Festival ambassadors land St., Mount Vernon. at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, No fee, no partner needed. at the Cascade Mall center First three lessons are free. court, 201 Cascade Mall Wear comfortable shoes.

Drive, Burlington. Based For information, call Rosie on their responses to ques- at 360-424-4608. tions from the judges, one boy and one girl will be chosen to represent the fes- MUSIC CALL FOR MUSICIANS: tival at events around the county and beyond. Appli- 5b’s Bakery, 45597 Main cations must be submitted St., Concrete, is looking for musicians to perform easyby 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. listening acoustic music 5. For information or an from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. application: 360-428-5959 during Sunday Brunch. In or tulipfestival.org. exchange, musicians will receive audience contribuDANCE tions and a meal. 360-853FOLK DANCING: Skagit- 8700 or info@5bsbakery.

Anacortes Folkdancers com. meet at 7 p.m. most Tuesdays at the Bayview Civic TIME FOR FIDDLERS: Hall, 12615 C St., Bay The Washington Old Time View. Learn to folkdance Fiddlers play acoustic old to a variety of international time music at 6:30 p.m. music. Instruction begins at the second and fourth 7 p.m. followed by review Fridays of each month at and request dances until the Mount Vernon Senior 9:30. The first session is free, Center, 1401 Cleveland. St. $3 thereafter. All welcome. Free; donations accepted.

No partners needed. For 360-630-9494. information, contact Gary or Ginny at 360-766-6866.

SKAGIT VALLEY MUSIC CLUB: The club welcomes SCOTTISH DANCING: performers (intermediate Bellingham Scottish Coun- and above), listeners and try Dancers meet from 7 guests to join the fun at to 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays at 1:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, the Fairhaven Library audi- at Vasa Hall, 1805 Clevetorium (upstairs), 1117 12th land St., Mount Vernon.

St., Bellingham. Wear com- Come and sing, play the fortable clothes and softclub’s piano or organ, play soled shoes without heels. your own instrument or just $8 per class. For informaenjoy a variety of music — tion, call Mary Anderson at ’20s to ’70s classical, popu360-933-1779 or visit bell lar, western and gospel. inghamscd.org.

Free. For information, call Elaine at 360-428-4228.

THURSDAY DANCE: Dance to The Skippers SHELTER BAY CHORUS: from 1 to 3:30 p.m. ThursPractices are held from 2:45 days at Hillcrest Lodge, to 4:45 p.m. every Thursday 1717 S. 13th St., Mount at the Shelter Bay ClubVernon. For information, house in La Conner. New contact Gisela at 360-424members welcome. No 5696. need to be a Shelter Bay

resident. 360-466-3805.

LOVE TO SING? Join the women of Harmony Northwest Chorus from 6:30 to 9 p.m. every Monday at the Mount Vernon Senior Center, 1401 Cleveland Ave. Seeking women who like to sing a cappella music. All skill levels welcome.

ANACORTES OPEN MIC: 9:30 p.m. Thursdays, Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-293-2544.

OPEN MIC: Jam Night: 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursdays, Conway Pub & Eatery, 18611 Main St., Conway. 360-445-4733.

RECREATION KIDDIE CAMP: Mount Vernon High School cheerleaders will host the annual Kiddie Camp for K-5 students from 6 to 7 p.m. today, Jan. 22, in the MVHS cafeteria, 314 N. Ninth St., Mount Vernon. Participants will perform during halftime of the boys’ varsity basketball home game on Friday, Jan. 23. Registration: $35. For information, contact coach Khalie Whitman at 360-438-6100, ext. 41252, or kwhitman@ mvsd320.org.

GUIDED INTERPRETIVE WALKS: n Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center, Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52809 Rockport Park Road, Rockport. Join the Forest Service and trained naturalists for a guided eagle ecology walk near the Skagit River at 11 a.m.

Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 31. The center also offers guest speakers each weekend and a gift shop. Free. n Rockport State Park, 51095 Highway 20, Rockport. Join trained naturalists for a guided hike to

learn about old growth forests, eagle habitat and more from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fridays through Sundays through Feb. 15. Visit the Discovery Center for crafts activities. Refreshments provided. Discover Pass required. n Marblemount Fish Hatchery, 8319 Fish Hatchery Road, Marblemount.

Tour the fish hatchery with Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group volunteers from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays, through Feb. 1. Learn about the salmon life cycle, hatchery operations, habitat needs of salmon and other local wildlife, including bald eagles. Self-guided tours are available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Free.

independent, so you don’t have to commit to every session. 360-840-0089 or acttheatre.com.

WORKSHOPS “WRITING FOR CHILDREN: Narrative Nonfiction: Creating the Story from Facts”: with Lois Harris, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 29 and Feb. 5, Skagit Valley College, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon.

Participants will look at back matter, characterization, dialogue, organization/ plot, point of view, voice and setting in biographies, picture books, and middle and young-adult nonfiction. $49. Call 360-416-7638 to register for 6085 CENGL.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES: Skagit Valley professional photographer Andy Porter will present a series of digital photography classes at the Burlington Parks and Recreation Center, 900 E. Fairhaven Ave., Burlington. Porter’s photos have appeared in many national magazines and travel guides. Classes will include lots of hands-on experience and answers to your photo questions. For ages 12 and older. Bring your digital SLR camera and instruction manual. Preregister at least one week before class date: 360-755-9649 or burlington wa.gov.

“Take Better Pictures with Your Digital DSLR Camera”: In this one-day class, you’ll learn how to THEATER shoot in manual mode, FREE ADULT ACTING and how to set aperture, CLASSES: Anacortes Com- shutter speed and ISO to munity Theatre offers free get the best possible shots. acting classes for adults Class will also cover how from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the to bracket your exposure, third Saturday each month use of polarizers, benefits at 918 M Ave., Anacortes. of capturing images in the Hosted by Nello Bottari, RAW format and more. $40. classes include theme Next up: monologues, scripted n Saturday, Jan 31: 10 scenes, improv games and a.m. to 12:30 p.m. more, with a different topic n Tuesday, Feb. 10: 6 to each month. Each class is 8:30 p.m.

BOATING COURSE: Skagit Bay Sail & Power Squadron will offer its Boat Engine Maintenance Course from 7 to 9 p.m.

Mondays, Feb. 23-April 27, at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon. The course includes inboards, outboards and diesel engines, and covers the basics of engine layout and operation, drive systems, steering systems and engine controls, as well as problem diagnosis and do-it-yourself repairs. $150, $175 for two sharing a book. Space is limited. Register by Feb. 5.

Contact George Johnson at 360-420-0795 or georgeand sandy@comcast.net.

“Photography Composition and Basic Editing”: In this two-day class you’ll first learn about image composition, including subject placement, use of the horizon, reflections, leading lines, the Rule of Thirds, framing and more. You’ll then receive a photo assignment to complete before the second session, where you’ll learn how to edit your images on the computer, including cropping, color adjustment, filters and amazing ways to make your images pop. Participants must have basic knowledge of how to use their DSLR camera. $80.

Next up: n Wednesday, Jan. 28: 6 to 9 p.m. n Saturdays, Feb. 21 and 28: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

PHOTO WORKSHOPS: Alternative Focus will offer two workshops on processing digital photographs using Adobe Lightroom software. Classes will meet in the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce boardroom, 819 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. Participants are invited to bring a laptop computer with Lightroom installed and images already in the library.

Handouts will be provided.

“Take Control in Lightroom: Organizing and Workflow for a New Year”: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27. Learn how to do a little Lightroom housekeeping and reset your copyright metadata.

“Take Control in Lightroom: Get Creative With Lightroom Presets”: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28. Learn how to use Lightroom presets to add a touch of creative flair to your images and take them to the next level. $30 each class or $50 for both. To register: 360-5886968 or kklocke1@mac. com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015 - E11

HOT TICKETS TOWER OF POWER: Jan. 22-25, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

WALE: Jan. 23, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

LYNN ARIELLE WITH GRACE KELLY AND CARLA COOK: Jan. 27-28, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

PIERCE THE VEIL, SLEEPING WITH SIRENS: Jan. 28, Showbox SoDo, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

RUSS FREEMAN AND THE RIPPINGTONS: Jan. 29-Feb. 1, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

G. LOVE & SPECIAL SAUCE: with Matt Costa: Jan. 30, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

“THE RAINMAKER”: Jan. 30-Feb. 15, Alger Community Church, Alger. 360-4245144 or www.altatheatre.com.

“ROMEO & JULIET, THE MUSICAL”: through Feb. 15, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre. org.

BILL FRISELL: Jan. 31, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

KIP MOORE: Jan. 31, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

MELISSA ALDANA AND CRASH TRIO: Feb. 2, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206441-9729 or jazzalley.com.

2015 SASQUATCH! MUSIC FESTIVAL LAUNCH PARTY: Hosted by Chris Gethard, with Ty Segall, Tacocat, The Young Evils: Feb. 3, The Neptune, Seattle. Free tickets available at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Paramount Theatre box office.

MARCIA BALL: Feb. 3-4, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

LOGIC: Feb. 5, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

“RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S CAROUSEL”: Feb. 5-March 1, 2015, The 5th Avenue Theatre, 1308 Fifth Ave., Seattle.

888-584-4849 or 5thavenue.org.

JEFFREY OSBORNE: Feb. 5-8, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazz alley.com.

DR. DOG: Feb. 10, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

JIMMY WEBB: Feb. 10-11, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazz alley.com.

RU PAUL’S DRAG RACE: Feb. 11, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or show boxonline.com.

“J’ADORE: A BURLESQUE VALENTINE”: The Atomic Bombshells: Feb. 11-14, The Triple Door, Seattle. 206-838-4333 or thetripledoor.net.

BILLY IDOL: Feb. 13, Paramount Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation.com.

MIRANDA LAMBERT: Feb. 13, Tacoma Dome. 800-745-3000 or livenation.com.

“WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?”: with Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff Davis and Joel Murray: Feb. 13-14, Swinomish Casino &

EXPLORE it all AT SWINOMISH CASINO & LODGE

SWINOMISH SUPER SUNDAY GALACTIC Feb. 27, The Showbox, Seattle. 800745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

Lodge, Anacortes. 888-288-8883 or swinomishcasinoandlodge.com.

USC LOVES YOU: Ummet Ozcan, Jack Beats and more: Feb. 14, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

AUGUST BURNS RED: Feb. 16, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

MOTION CITY SOUNDTRACK: Feb. 17, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

KARL DENSON’S TINY UNIVERSE: RUN DMC REMIXD: featuring Vockab Kompany: Feb. 19, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-7453000 or showboxonline.com.

NETTWORK: Feb. 19-22, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-441-9729 or jazzalley. com.

COLD WAR KIDS: Feb. 20, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

IRATION: Feb. 20, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

BORGORE: Feb. 21, Showbox SoDo, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

3 REDNECK TENORS: “From Rags to Rednecks”: Feb. 21, Mt. Baker Theatre, Bellingham. 360-734-6080 or mountbaker theatre.com.

THE ROBERT CRAY BAND: Feb. 22, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360-336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

LOTUS: Feb. 22, The Showbox, Seattle.

800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

ANDY GRAMMER, ALEX & SIERRA: Feb. 24, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE TRIO: Feb. 24-25, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle. 206-4419729 or jazzalley.com.

BO BURNHAM: Feb. 25, Moore Theatre, Seattle. 877-784-4849 or livenation.com.

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT: Feb. 28, Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon. 360336-8955 or lincolntheatre.org.

JOSHUA RADIN: March 1, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline. com.

CARIBOU: March 4, The Showbox, Seattle. 800-745-3000 or showboxonline.com.

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO: March 5, 2015, Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham.

360-734-6080 or mountbakertheatre.com.

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E12 - Thursday, January 22, 2015

Skagit Eagle Festival SATURDAY, JAN. 24

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP: “How to Compose Stunning Images”: 10 a.m. to noon, Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete. Outdoor photographer Andy Porter will offer tips and tricks to improve your photo composition skills.

Free. 360-941-0403 or concrete-theatre. com.

LITTLE EAGLET STORY TIME: 11 to 11:45 a.m., Upper Skagit Library, 45770B Main St., Concrete. Families with young children are invited to learn about eagles and other wildlife through stories, songs and a simple craft. Free.

360-853-7939 or upperskagit.lib.wa.us.

EAGLE INTERPRETIVE CENTER: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center, Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52809 Rockport Park Road, Rockport. Learn about eagles, watershed issues and local natural and WINE & MORE: Noon to 5 p.m., Chal- cultural history through guided walks lenger Ridge Vineyard & Cellars, 43095 and presentations. Free admission.

Donations appreciated. 360-853-7626 or Challenger Road, Concrete. Enjoy a skagiteagle.org. raptor presentation by Sarvey Wildlife Care Center at 2 p.m., along with wine EAGLE WATCHER STATIONS: Staffed tasting and more in the family- and dog-friendly venue. Free admission and by volunteers from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at free Saturday camping. $5 wine tasting. Howard Miller Steelhead Park in RockSnacks and soft drinks available for pur- port, Sutter Creek at milepost 100 and chase. 425-422-6988 or challengerridge. at the Marblemount Fish Hatchery, 8319 Fish Hatchery Road. Scopes and bincom. oculars available. Free. 360-854-2631.

PHOTO WORKSHOP: “Focusing on SALMON HATCHERY TOURS: Free Birds”: 1 to 2:30 p.m., Concrete Theatre, tours of the Marblemount Fish Hatch45920 Main St., Concrete. Learn how to locate and photograph the migratory ery are offered by Skagit Fisheries birds of the Skagit Valley with instructor Enhancement Group from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 8319 Fish Hatchery Road, Karen Ulvestad. Free admission. ConMarblemount. Learn how eagles relate cessions will be available for purchase. to the life cycle of salmon and other 360-941-0403 or concrete-theatre.com. wildlife through guided and self-guided tours. 360-336-0172, ext. 304 or skagit WINTER JAZZ: 2 to 4 p.m., 5b’s Bakery, 45597 Main St., Concrete. Free fisheries.org. admission. 360-853-8700 or 5bsbakery.

DEEP FOREST TOURS: 10 a.m. to com.

2 p.m., Rockport State Park, 51095 Highway 20, Rockport. Enjoy a 30- to COUNTRY HAYRIDE AND BON60-minute tour deep into some of the FIRE: 3 p.m., Ovenell’s Ranch, 46276 670 acres of old-growth forest at RockConcrete-Sauk Valley Road, Concrete.

Take a hayride through 250 acres of tim- port State Park at the foot of Sauk Mountain. Free. Discover Pass or $10 ber and see eagles, deer, elk and more. day-use fee required to access the park.

Then enjoy cookies and hot drinks at the bonfire, children’s games and ranch 360-853-8461 or rockport@parks.wa.gov. history display. Activities are weatherDRIFTBOAT EAGLE EXCURSIONS: dependent. Free. No pets. 360-853-8494 Skagit River Guide Service offers a or ovenells-inn.com. three-hour tour in heated driftboats at SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, JAN. 24-25 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52921 Rockport Park EAGLE FESTIVAL INFORMATION: Road, Rockport. $75, $55 ages 5 and Get free maps and visitor information younger. 888-675-2448, skagiteagles.com. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Concrete Chamber of Commerce, Concrete Cen- n For the latest information, contact the ter, 45821 Railroad St., Concrete. 360Concrete Chamber of Commerce at 360853-8784.

853-8784 or visit skagiteaglefestival.com

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “On Golden Pond”: “Lucy”: Scarlett Johansson plays a drug Film that earned Henry Upcoming mule who is injected Fonda his first Oscar is movie releases with a drug that now on Blu-ray.

Following is a partial enhances her abilities.

“Lost Legion”: Battle schedule of coming movDirector Luc Besfor power wags in ies on DVD. Release son seamlessly takes ancient Rome. dates are subject to a standard action film “Coherence”: Eight change: and ramps it up with friends experience a JAN 27 the deeper meanings of chain of reality-bending Fury Lucy’s transformation. events.

Book of Life The action parts are the “Swamp People: The Judge weakest part, with BesSeason 5”: Team conMy Old Lady son ignoring large bits tinues its quest for the Before I Go to Sleep of logic to keep the film biggest and baddest alliThe Remaining moving ahead. gators they can find.

FEB. 3 There’s also an “A Little Game”: The Lucky One immediate acceptance Young girl is mentored Dracula Untold by cops and professors by chess master. F. MurOuija that seems expedited ray Abraham stars.

John Wick just to keep the pace The Best of Me “Little House on the high. With a major assist Whiplash Prairie: Season 4”: Hector and the Search from Johansson, Besson Includes 22 restored for Happiness delivers plenty of action episodes of the family The Disappearance of in a smart package.

TV drama. Melissa GilEleanor Rigby “The Boxtrolls”: bert stars.

Industrious underFEB. 10 “A Bet’s a Bet”: ground dwellers are Alexander and the Competition leads to an Terrible, Horrible, No threatened by a man unlikely romance.

Good, Very Bad Day looking to wipe them “The African AmeriNightcrawler out. An outlandishly cans & Black in Latin Addicted funny tale brought to America with Henry Rosewater life through beautiful Kill the Messenger Louis Gates, Jr.”: Two stop-animation photogThe Song documentaries that raphy. The film comexamine the evolution FEB. 17 bines Monty Pythonof the African AmeriDumb and Dumber To style humor with the can people are hosted St. Vincent sense and sensibilities

by Gates.

The Theory of Everything of Oliver Twist and is Birdman “The Green Prince”: presented in a wonderThe Interview Son of Hamas leader fully creepy animated emerges as one of Isran Tribune News Service style. el’s prized informants.

“May in the Sum“The Atticus Instimer”: Politics and relitute”: Woman’s clairgion are such heavy topics that, left voyance has an evil side. unchecked, they can crush the life out “Welcome Back, Kotter: Season of a feature film. Cherien Dabis not 2”: John Travlota’s career-starting only manages to deftly handle these work can be seen in 23 episodes of the hot-button topics in her film, “May in 1975-79 comedy. the Summer,” she does it while also “Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Tough handling the starring role. This is a film Love”: Animated film featuring that pulls us in with a sweet and powMadea and her family. erful story where major tent poles of “The Scorpion King 4: Quest for religion and politics are presented in a Power”: Mathayus (Victor Webster) strong but subtle way. embarks on his most dangerous “The Drop”: Man finds himself at assignment yet. the center of a robbery gone awry.

“Life’s a Breeze”: Close-knit Irish “Wolfblood: Season 3”: Includes family comes together after a calamity. episodes of the supernatural series “Nature: Invasion of the Killer plus seven webisodes of “Jana Bites.”

Whales”: Melting Arctic ice is making “The Mule”: Man faces deadly poskiller whales more of a threat. sibilities after hiding narcotics in his body. n Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015 - E13

AT THE LINCOLN 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon www.lincolntheatre.org

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7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Jan. 23-24 “Awake: The Life of Yogananda” is a biography about an Indian Swami who brought yoga and meditation to the West in the 1920s. The film explores the life and teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda.

Rated PG. $10 general; $9 seniors, students and active military; $8 members; $7 children 12 and under.

Bargain matinee prices (all shows before 6 p.m.): $8 general, $6 members, $5 children 12 and under.

NT Live: ‘Treasure Island’ 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22

Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money and mutiny is brought to life in a new stage adaptation

by Bryony Lavery, broadcast live from the National Theatre. $16 general, $14 seniors, $12 students, with $2 off for Lincoln members.

The Met Live in HD: ‘The Merry Widow’ 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25

Renée Fleming stars as the beguiling femme fatale who captivates all Paris in Lehár’s operetta, seen in a new staging by Broadway director and choreographer Susan Stroman. $23 adults; $19 seniors; $16 students with $2 off for Lincoln members.

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E14 - Thursday, January 22, 2015

MOVIES NEW THIS WEEK “SONG ONE” starring Anne Hathaway is a lowbudget New York romance set against the backdrop of the city’s small-clubs/singer-songwriters scene.

Hathaway stars as Franny, an anthropologist whose estranged brother Henry (Ben Rosenfield) has become obsessed with songwriting, filling notebooks with tunes, performing them as a guitar-playing busker. But a car accident has left Henry in a coma, and a guilt-ridden Franny comes home to an irate, self-involved writer-mom (Mary Steenburgen) and a brother who won’t wake up.

The novelty in writer-director Kate Barker-Froyland’s debut feature is Franny’s way of coping with this tragedy. A scientist in training, she immerses herself in Henry’s notebooks, listens to the mix tapes he had been sending her and, traipsing through Brooklyn’s busker underground, discovers Henry’s world. Henry’s unconventional songs are Franny’s soundtrack as she visits Henry’s haunts.

She starts making natural sound recordings, hoping for audio cues that will wake her sibling up. She’s trying to help.

It’s on this odyssey that she meets Henry’s absolute favorite artist, a British singer-songwriter of one-time repute named James Forester, played by British singer-songwriter Johnny Flynn.

Hathaway and Flynn have minimal chemistry, but she makes Franny beguiling enough to persuade the near-has James been to visit the comatose Henry. That means he’ll be close to Franny, and that sets us up for a little romance.

The magical thing that Hathaway accomplishes here is in getting this film made and this look at the New York music scene out there. Barker-Froyland’s script makes knowing observations about “stardom” in age of pirated downloads, when most musicians have to make most of their money off live performance, and “fandom” in the age of selfies.

Tunes by everyone from Nina Simone to America — whose “I Need You,” Hathaway sings — turn up on the soundtrack, with Jenny Lewis of Rilo Kiley providing much of the music Flynn’s James Forester sings in the film. Sharon Van Etten, The Felice Brothers and Cass Dillon are among those seen in the various indie music clubs captured for the film.

It never rises to the level of say, a “Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist,” a romantic comedy that wandered through a different corner of New York music subculture. But Hathaway and a legion of musicians make this musical time capsule a pleasant enough time-killer, a film that seems to get what it is that turns people who play as a hobby into obsessed creatives looking to start a long shot career with “Song One.” 1:26. Rating: PG-13 for a scene of sexuality, and brief language. HH n Roger Moore, Tribune News Service

Warner Bros. Pictures via AP

Kyle Gallner (left) and Bradley Cooper star in “American Sniper.”

MINI-REVIEWS Compiled from news services.

Ratings are one to four stars.

“American Sniper” — Clint Eastwood directs a powerful, intense portrayal of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, hardly the blueprint candidate to become the most prolific sniper in American military history. And yet that’s what happened. In maybe the best performance of his career, Bradley Cooper infuses Chris with humanity and dignity. And vulnerability.

War drama, R, 132 minutes.

HHH1⁄2 “Big Eyes” — As he did with “Ed Wood,” director Tim Burton takes a kitschy slice of 20th-century pop culture -the woman who painted children with huge eyes and the husband who took credit for them — and turns it into a special film. This is the kind of movie that has you smiling nearly all the way throughout at the sheer inspired madness of it all. Biography, PG-13, 105 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Big Hero 6” — Disney’s animated story about a teenager befriending a healthcare robot is a big, gorgeous adventure with wonderful voice performances, some

dark undertones that give the story more depth, an uplifting message and more than a few laugh-out-loud moments.

Animation action comedy, PG, 108 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Cake” — Jennifer Aniston delivers a strong, vanity-free performance as a woman physically and emotionally scarred from a horrific tragedy. But as “Cake” swerves from dark comedy to cringeinducing unpleasantness to heavy melodrama, her efforts can’t elevate the work anywhere near the level of something special. Drama, R, 98 minutes. HH “Foxcatcher” — Disturbing and memorable, “Foxcatcher” is based on a bizarre true story, and even if you know exactly what happens, when it does happen, it’s shocking.

Steve Carell nails the role of a rich eccentric, with Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo revelatory as the wrestlers he mentors. Sports drama, R, 134 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “Interstellar” — What a beautiful and epic film is “Interstellar,” filled with great performances, tingling our senses with masterful special effects, daring to be openly sentimental, asking gigantic questions about the meaning of life and leaving

us drained and grateful for the experience. Adventure/ mystery/sci-fi, PG-13, 169 minutes. HHHH “Nightcrawler” — As a freelance vulture who records video of crime and crash scenes for TV news, Jake Gyllenhaal plays one of the most disturbing movie characters of the year. But the film veers from dark satire to tense crime thriller before the tires come off near the end, leaving the entire vehicle just short of worth recommending. Crime thriller, R, 117 minutes. HH1⁄2 “Into the Woods” — Adapted from the sensational musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt head an A-list cast. “Into the Woods” rumbles on for too long and has some dry patches here and there, but just when we’re growing fidgety, we get another rousing musical number or another dark plot twist, and we’re back in business. Musical fantasy, PG, 124 minutes. HHH “Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb” — Sitting through the thoroughly tiresome final chapter in this trilogy, I wondered: Did anybody involved in the making of this movie actually believe

it was a quality effort? Ben Stiller, Robin Williams and Owen Wilson are among the terrific actors sinking in the cinematic quicksand.

Comedy adventure, PG, 97 minutes. H1⁄2 “Taken 3” — This tired, gratuitously violent, ridiculous and laughably stupid entry in a franchise that started out with at least an intriguing idea and a few solid moments now should be put out of its misery. Liam Neeson reprises and Forest Whitaker adds some panache as the obligatory top cop, but what got “Taken” was 112 minutes of my life. Action, PG-13, 112 minutes. H1⁄2 “The Babadook” — This Australian horror movie is about a single mom haunted by a monstrous creature from a pop-up book. This is the scariest movie of the year. Horror, not rated, 94 minutes. HHH1⁄2 “The Gambler” — This remake gives the James Caan self-destructive gambler role to Mark Wahlberg, as a narcissistic brat, and not the complex kind. Supporting characters played by John Goodman, Brie Larson and others are more interesting. Drama thriller, R, 101 minutes. HH1⁄2

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, January 22, 2015 - E15

MOVIES

MUSIC

AT AREA THEATERS

OAK HARBOR CINEMAS Jan. 23-29 Strange Magic (PG): Friday: 1:20, 3:35, ANACORTES CINEMAS 6:50, 9:00; Saturday: 10:40, 1:20, 3:35, Jan. 23-29 Paddington (PG): Friday-Saturday: 1:45, 6:50, 9:00; Sunday: 10:40, 1:20, 3:35, 6:50; Monday4:30, 6:35, 8:45; Sunday: 4:45, 6:35; Thursday: 1:20, 3:35, 6:50 Monday-Thursday: 1:45, 4:30, 6:35 American Sniper (R): Friday: 1:00, 3:45, American Sniper (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:15, 4:00, 6:45, 9:30; Sunday-Thursday: 6:30, 9:15; Saturday: 10:20, 1:00, 3:45, 6:30, 9:15; Sunday: 10:20, 1:00, 3:45, 1:15, 4:00, 6:45 The Theory of Everything (PG-13): Friday- 6:30; Monday-Thursday: 1:00, 3:45, 6:30 Saturday: 1:30, 4:15, 6:55, 9:40; Sunday- Into the Woods (PG): Friday-Saturday: 3:55, 9:20; Sunday-Thursday: 3:55 Thursday: 1:30, 4:15, 6:55 Bolshoi Ballet: Swan Lake (NR): Sunday: The Theory of Everything (PG-13): Friday: 1:10, 6:40; Saturday-Sunday: 10:30, 12:55 p.m.

1:10, 6:40; Monday-Thursday: 1:10, 6:40 360-293-6620 360-279-2226 CASCADE MALL THEATRES STANWOOD CINEMAS Burlington Jan. 23-29 For listings: 888-AMC-4FUN (888-262Mortdecai (R): 1:10, 3:30, 6:40, 9:00 4386).

Strange Magic (PG): 1:20, 3:45, 6:45, 9:00 BLUE FOX DRIVE-IN Blackhat (R): Friday-Saturday: 1:00, Oak Harbor 9:10; Sunday: 9:10 p.m.; Monday-ThursJan. 23-25 day: 1:00, 9:10 Strange Magic (PG) and Paddington Paddington (PG): Friday-Saturday: 1:30, (PG). First movie starts at 6 p.m.

3:50, 6:50, 8:55; Sunday: 1:30, 6:50, 360-675-5667 8:55; Monday-Thursday: 1:30, 3:50, 6:50, 8:55 CONCRETE THEATRE American Sniper (R): 12:50, 3:40, 6:30, Jan. 23-25 9:20 Unbroken (PG-13): Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: 5 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 4 and The Theory of Everything (PG-13): 3:35, 6:35 6:30 p.m.

Bolshoi Ballet: Swan Lake (NR): Sunday: 360-941-0403 12:55 p.m.

360-629-0514 “The Humbling” — Al Pacino is all over the place playing a famous actor who goes to rehab after falling off the stage. As madcap characters keep entering and exiting his life, yelling at him and kissing him and berating him and making strange requests of him, fantasy and reality intertwine in a manner I found more maddening than intriguing. Comedy, R, 113 minutes.

HH “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay -- Part 1” — The latest Katniss Everdeen adventure is a rousing yet often bleak and downbeat film that focuses a lot more on tragedies and setbacks than applausegenerating heroics. Ultimately it serves as a solid if unspectacular first lap around the track of a two-lap race. Fantasy adventure, PG-13, 123 minutes. HHH “The Interview” — For any cyber-terrorist to be threatened by something as ridiculously over-the-top, as cartoonishly goofy as “The Interview” is just plain stupid. At times laugh-out-loud funny, it stars Seth Rogen and James

Franco in an endless parade of scatological humor and homosexual double-entendre jokes with a smattering of political commentary. Comedy, R, 112 minutes. HHH “The Theory of Everything” — Playing the young Stephen Hawking from reckless Cambridge student to brilliant physicist, Eddie Redmayne undergoes a remarkable transformation.

But it’s a memorable performance in a rather ordinary love story about his romance with future wife, Jane (Felicity Jones). Biography, PG-13, 123 minutes. HH1⁄2 “The Wedding Ringer” — Despite the considerable charisma of Josh Gad as a friendless groom and Kevin Hart as the ringer he hires as his best man, this crude circus has only one or two genuinely inspired bits of comedy, and its premise is insanely ridiculous.1 Comedy, R, 101 minutes. H ⁄2 “Top Five” — Chris Rock writes, directs and stars in a seriously funny, semi-autobiographical film that might be the most accomplished work

he’s ever done for the big screen. Even when the dialogue and the visual humor are hardcore vulgar, even when his character hits rock bottom, there’s a real sense of joy about this film. Com- 1 edy, R, 101 minutes. HHH ⁄2 “Unbroken” — Angelina Jolie directs the well-known story of Louis Zamperini, a former Olympic track star who spent more than two years as a POW in World War II. It’s an ambitious, sometimes moving film that suffers from a little too much self-conscious nobility, and far too many scenes of sadistic brutality. War biography, PG-13, 137 minutes.

HH1⁄2 “Wild” — The more time we spend with former heroin addict Cheryl Strayed, the more we feel the change in this young woman’s heart and spirit as she hikes 1,100 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail by herself. It’s a raw, beautiful performance

by Reese Witherspoon, and Laura Dern is warm and wonderful as her mother. Drama, R, 115 minutes. HHH1⁄2

Mark Ronson

competition, and the sound works on second single “Lips Are Movin’” and “Dear “Uptown Special” Future Husband.” But too much of that good thing turns out to be bad for the Mark Ronson’s singer’s mainstream debut. new album, “Uptown “Title” is still worth a listen, though Special,” opens with doing so in one sitting is ill-advised. such promising notes Trainor is the funny girl-next-door on — Stevie Wonder’s “Walkashame”; she’s an example of selfharmonica, playing so soulful and slow that acceptance on “Close Your Eyes”; and the listener can’t help but settle in, ready she’s admirable — refusing to be friendand waiting for what’s sure to be an exhilazoned — on the relatable title track. rating musical story.

When Trainor reaches, however, the Sadly, you’ll be kept waiting. That’s results are painful. “Had him brushing his not to say there isn’t some good music on teeth, even flossin’/ got him looking like Ronson’s fourth effort, because there is.

Ryan Gosling,” she raps on “Credit.” The But “Uptown Special” feels chaotic, movcringe-worthy lyrics are rivaled only by ing from sound to sound in a way that feels that on the horn-heavy “Bang Dem Sticks.” haphazard.

Perhaps the most refreshing song from The songs don’t hit the listener in a “Title” is the subdued “Like I’m Gonna connected way, but as if Ronson just put Lose You,” featuring John Legend. Not together a bunch of tracks that sounded only is it a nice change of pace sonically, cool to him. That’s fine, but with a little but in a rare moment, the track gives Trainmore curation, the music might have been or’s vocals the main stage, without a catchy transcendent. hook or quirky production yanking away There are undoubtedly songs the listhe spotlight. tener will want to hear again. The lead n Melanie J. Sims, Associated Press single, “Uptown Funk” with Bruno Mars, has taken over the charts with its catchy beat that almost dares you to stay still. “I The Can’t Lose” is another one that gets your toes tapping, and “Leaving Los Feliz” has a Decemberists “What a Terrible sweet sway to it.

Grammy-winning Ronson, who has pro- World, What a duced for top-notch acts from Amy Wine- Beautiful World” house to Adele to Paul McCartney, has an “We know we obvious affinity for old-school sounds. It’s just not enough to make this album special. belong to you, we know you built your lives around us,” Colin n Deepti Hajela, Associated Press Meloy sings at the start of the Decemberists’ seventh album, somewhat cheekily addressing the codependent artist-fan relaMeghan Trainor tionship on the fittingly titled “The Singer “Title” Addresses His Audience.”

Meloy has put the allegiance of the There’s plenty to band’s followers to the test by taking a like about Meghan four-year break — during which time the Trainor’s first fullsinger wrote three YA novels with his length album, “Title.” wife, illustrator Carson Ellis — since the The set, which includes music from a previously released folk-rock group’s tightly constructed 2010 album “The King Is Dead.”

EP of the same name, serves up all the The new one, “Terrible/Beautiful,” takes doo-wop sass that hooked fans on the its name from “12-17-12,” a grieving ballad singer-songwriter’s Grammy-nominated written after the school shooting in Newhit, “All About That Bass.”

Jump to almost any track on “Title” and town, Connecticut, on that date. It’s more you’ll find a similar juxtaposition of cheeky musically varied and not as concise as “The King Is Dead.” But the 12-song set, which lyrics stamped over malt shop-inspired production. Unfortunately, therein lies the features backup vocals by Kelly Hogan problem: by album’s end, it seems Trainor and Rachel Flotard on its two catchiest numbers, “Make You Better” and “Cavalry and “Title” producer Kevin Kadish have beaten their brand of shooby-doo flavor to Captain,” is a melodically strong, inwardlooking effort that broadens the band’s death. tart, country-leaning sound in subtle ways.

Sure, the throwback vibe has worked to set Trainor, 21, apart from her radio n Dan DeLuca, Philadelphia Inquirer

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