Get Out December 6 2012

History Center hosts all-natural Christmas event, page 7

Framing Fido Quinlan Visual Arts Center opens 2012 Dog and Pony Show.

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Thursday December 6, 2012

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on the web www.dropbox.com/

Dropbox lets you sync selected folders between your computers. Any file you save to Dropbox also instantly saves to all of your computers, phones and the Dropbox website.

arts

The Holiday Showcase will fill the Center Gallery and Gallery Too at the Sautee Nacoochee Center with art specifically created by local artists for the gift-giving season.

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movies

“Hyde Park on Hudson” casts Bill Murray in an unusual role, but it’s Olivia Colman and Samuel West who steal the show.

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The Associated Press

family

“A Ride in the Mountains” by artist Janet Cornett

on the cover

The Humane Society of Northeast Georgia teams up with the Quinlan Visual Arts Center to present the 2012 Dog and Pony Show to benefit both organizations.

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Experience Christmas on the homefront of the Civil War at the McDaniel Farm.

PAGE 7 The annual Junior League Charity Ball set for Saturday at Chattahoochee Country Club.

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music

Acclaimed sister act von Grey will take the stage Friday night at the SNCA theater.

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Thursday, December 6, 2012

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Come Visit Santa!

December 8, 15 and 22

10am-3pm

Main Street Market Downtown Square

SHOP DOWNTOWN! Support your Local Businesses

$15 Photos with Santa CD Package

Find out the latest!

Facebook @ Downtown

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Thursday, December 6, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Get a taste of winter wine

outdoors events This week

From staff reports

HO HO Hustle 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run, Oakwood.

4:30 p.m. Dec. 8. Oakwood City Park, Railroad Avenue, Oakwood. 5K event under the lights to benefit the Disability Resource Center of Hall County. 5K $25. Active.com or aaaraceservices.com Family Hiking Club, Athens. 9-11 a.m. Dec. 8. Fountain in front of the Visitor’s Center, The State Botanical Garden of Georgia, 2450 South Milledge Ave., Athens. Learn about hibernation, bird migration, evergreen plants and more. In case of rain, meet on the following Sunday. $5, $15 for families. 706542-6156, botgarden.uga.edu

Upcoming

Fun at the Fort, Winder. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dec. 15. Fort Yargo State Park, Winder.

Experience a picturesque and fascinating historic site within the state park, while learning about life in the late 1700s. Tours includes various educational activities. $3 plus $5 parking. 770-867-3489.

Holi-Day Camp, Helen. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dec. 19-20. Smithgall Woods State Park, Helen. Kids ages 9-12 can enjoy a bit of fun and skill in orienteering. Advance registration required. $55 for both days.

706-878-3087.

etc events This week

Herbal Lotions, Salves & Lip Balms, Athens. Session 1: 9-11 a.m., Session 2: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 6.

Visitor Center, Classroom 2, The State Botanical Garden of Georgia, 2450 South Milledge Ave., Athens. $27. Discover a variety of recipes for using herbs and essential oils for health and beauty. 706-5426156, botgarden.uga.edu Greenery Wreaths, Athens. 5:307:30 p.m. Dec. 7. Visitor Center, Classroom 2, The State Botanical Garden of Georgia, 2450 South Milledge Ave., Athens. Wreaths are constructed on wire frames with greenery collected from the Garden. Materials are harvested just prior to the class to ensure they will last throughout the holiday season. Bring pruning shears. $27. 706-542-6156, botgarden.uga.edu Christmas is One Language, Gainesville. Dec. 8. Brenau University, Public Radio WBCX

The wineries of the Sautee and Nacoochee valleys will hold their first Winter Wine Weekend Dec. 8-9.

Habersham Winery, Sautee Nacoochee Vineyards and Yonah Mountain Vineyards will welcome visitors with special tastings, cellar tours, library wines, live music and hors d’oeuvres.

Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at any participating winery or lodging partner.

The Winter Wine Dinner is scheduled for Dec. 8 and offered at both Sylvan Valley Lodge and Bernie’s Nacoochee Valley Guesthouse. It will feature two wines from each winery and a six-course dinner.

Winter Wine Dinner tickets are $75, sold in advance at Sylvan Valley Lodge, Bernie’s Nacoochee Valley Guesthouse or Lucille’s Mountain Top Inn. The shops and Nacoochee Village and the Village of Sautee, as well as lodging partners, will be offering specials throughout the weekend.

For details, including links to all participants and the dinner menu, visit www.sauteenacoochee.com.

Winter Wine Weekend When: Dec. 8-9 Where: Habersham Winery, Sautee Nacoochee Vineyards, Yonah Mountain Vineyards How much: $15; dinner, $75 More info: www.sauteenacoochee.com.

FM 89.1. Celebrate the season with multi-cultural diversity and many musical styles. www.brenau. edu\wbcx Fifth Annual Civil War holiday program, Duluth. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 8. McDaniel Farm, 3251 McDaniel Road, Duluth. $5 Gwinnett County residents and members, $8 out of county residents, free for children ages two and younger. 770-814-4920, www.gwinnettEHC.org

Upcoming

Celtic Solstice, Gainesville. Dec. 15. Brenau University, Public Radio WBCX FM 89.1. Ancient music by Libana and Robert Glass; and the Celtic Fiddle Festival. www.brenau.edu\wbcx Derby Day, Gainesville. 8 a.m. to noon. Dec. 15. 924 Dawsonville Hwy., Gainesville. Help to design and cut out cars. Demonstrations of how to sand, paint and polish the axles. 770-532-7395, gmd62hd20@yahoo.com Technology Tutoring, Gainesville.

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 18. North

Hall Community Center, 4175 Nopone Road, Gainesville. Best Buy of Gainesville will be on site to answer technology questions.

Registration due by Dec. 11. Free.

770-535-8280.

Make Your Own Holiday Centerpiece, Athens. 9 a.m. to noon.

Dec. 20. Visitor Center, Classroom 2, The State Botanical Garden of Georgia, 2450 South Milledge Ave., Athens. 706-542-6156, botgarden.uga.edu Old Time Radio: Fibber McGee & Molly, Gainesville. Dec. 22. Brenau University, Public Radio WBCX FM 89.1. Listen to favorite holiday songs by Jennifer Ferrin and Dodi Pritchett. www.brenau.edu\wbcx Kwanzaa, Gainesville. Dec. 29.

Brenau University, Public Radio WBCX FM 89.1. Learn about the recent revival of an age old tradition from Africa, reinvented to help keep the faith. www.brenau. edu\wbcx Community Contra Dance, Sautee Nacoochee. 6:30-11 p.m. Dec. 29.

Historic Gym. Sautee Nacoochee Community Association, 283

get out Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

To have your event listed, we must have the following information: ■ The name, time and date of the event, and a short description ■ The location, street address ■ Admission and contact information ■ Send to getout@gainesvilletimes.com ONLY emails will be accepted. No faxes, flyers, mailers or phone calls. The deadline to have your event listed in Get Out is the FRIDAY before the next publication. Listings run at the discretion of the editor.

If you would like to purchase an ad, call Betty Thompson at 770-532-1234 or email bthompson@gainesvilletimes.com

Ga. 255 N., Sautee Nacoochee.

Potluck dinner, lessons, dancing. $8 adults, $7 members, $4 students. 706-878-3300, www. snca.org Square Dance, Gainesville.

8:30 to midnight. Dec. 31.

First Presbyterian Church, 800 South Enota Drive, Gainesville.

Lakeshore Squares will host New Year’s Eve Square Dance.

Snacks and Refreshments will be provided. Advanced purchase $10 or $12.50 at door. 404-808-8689, www.lakeshoresquares.com Square Dance Class, Flowery Branch. 6:30 p.m. Jan. 7. Mulberry Creek Community Center, 4491 JM Turk Road, Flowery Branch.

Singles and couples welcome, children 12 and older when accompanied by adult taking class. 404-808-8689, www. lakeshoresquares.com Forgotten Skills: Keeping Traditions Alive, Class 5, Gainesville. 10 a.m.

Jan. 19. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville. Cooking meals outdoors using the dutch oven

and bamboo. Class limited to 12. $65, $60 for members. Advance registration appreciated. Ages 10 and older; 770-297-5900, www. negahc.org or jcarson@brenau. edu

Ongoing

Dahlonega Old Fashioned Christmas, Dahlonega. December.

Downtown Dahlonega. Holiday lights, decorated shops, extended shopping hours, Santa, carolers, entertainment, wine sampling, live theater events.

706-864-3513 or 706-482-2707, dahlonega.org Card games, Flowery Branch.

8:30 a.m. to noon. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Mulberry Creek Community Center, Mulberry Creek Park, 4491 JM Turk Road, Flowery Branch. $1. 770-9657140 Tai Chi, Flowery Branch. 10:3011:30 a.m. Thursdays. Mulberry Creek Community Center, Mulberry Creek Park, 4491 JM Turk Road, Flowery Branch. $1.

770-965-7140.

goo the arts Picture perfect pets

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, December 6, 2012

Quinlan art exhibit to benefit Humane Society

BY CHRISTEN ROBINSON crobinson@ gainesvilletimes.com

North Georgians will get their first look at an art exhibit where the love of animals and the love of art becomes one.

The 2012 Dog and Pony Show opens Thursday, Dec. 6, and runs through Feb. 16 at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center in Gainesville.

“The idea was to cross promote an art show with the Humane Society,” said Amanda McClure, Quinlan executive director.

The animal-themed art show has been in the works between McClure and Julie Edwards, director of Development and Marketing for the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia, for almost two years, making this year the first year of the Dog and Pony Show.

“The assignment was to paint your pet,” McClure said.

Artists all over North Georgia could submit up to two paintings, sculptures or photographs of their animal companions. The artwork

The Holiday Showcase will fill the Center Gallery and Gallery Too at the Sautee Nacoochee Center with art specifically created by local artists for the gift-giving season.

The show continues through 3 p.m.

Dec. 24.

The showcase focuses on

The Six, Gainesville. Dec. 6 to Feb. 16. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Artists Douglas Fromm, Yasharel Manzy, Kelly Morgenstern, Alan Stecker, David Wendel and Marc West. 770-5362575, www.quinlanartscenter.org.

Another Blooming Art Show, Gainesville. Dec. 6 to Feb. 16. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Artists Cheri Buchard and Catherine Pichon. 770-536-2575, www.quinlanartscenter.org.

Dog and Pony Show, Gainesville. Reception opening Dec. 6, 5:30-7 p.m. Through Feb. 16. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville.

A portion of the proceeds will go to the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia. 770-536-2575, www. quinlanartscenter.org.

Juried Student Design Show, Gainesville. Nov. 6 to Dec. 6. Simmons Visual Arts Center, Sellars Gallery, Brenau University, Gainesville. Free. 770-534-6263, www.brenau.edu Chestatee Artists’ Holiday Arts & Crafts Show & Sale, Dahlonega. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 8, noon to 5 p.m.

Dec. 9. Lumpkin County Parks YMCA, Dahlonega.

Artists will provide handcrafted, unique door prizes for shoppers throughout the two day event www. chestateeartists.com

Upcoming

TOM REED | The Times

“Graze of Glory” by artist Amanda Carder Lovett is on display as part of the Quinlan Visual Arts Center’s 2012 Dog and Pony Show opening tonight.

includes floral paintings by artists Cheri Burchard and Catherine Pichon.

For more, visit the Quinlan’s website, www. quinlanartscenter.org.

Sautee artists produce Holiday Showcase From staff reports

This Week

go o the arts

When: Dec. 6 to Feb. 16; opening reception 5:30 p.m. Dec. 6.

Where: Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St., Gainesville How much: Free More info: quinlanartscenter.org

individual talents as a group.

“I-phone Fayum Portrait Recreations” are iPhone drawings from artist John Bavaro, and “Another Blooming Art Show”

affordable art ideal for holiday shopping, including paintings of various media, fine art photography, wooden art, clay and ceramics, glass items, fiber art, stained glass lamps and mosaic window art, and a huge array of jewelry.

All artists represented in the two main galleries reside within a 50 mile radius of the Sautee Center.

The galleries are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. Sundays.

There is never an admission charge to visit the galleries at the Sautee Nacoochee Center located at 283 Ga. 255 North in Sautee, one-quarter mile north of Ga. 17.

For more information, visit www. snca.org.

arts events

2012 Dog and Pony Show

would then be judged by Edwards, with the winners announced at the opening reception at 5:30 p.m. today.

For the opening reception, there will be a special performance by the Gala Winds Flute Ensemble, with the awards ceremony to follow.

Each artwork will be for sale. Proceeds will be shared among the Humane Society, the Quinlan and the artists.

The arts center will also feature three other shows, with “The Six” as the headline exhibit. The exhibit consists of six Georgia artists showcasing their

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Michael Crocker Christmas Kiln Opening, Lula. 1-3 p.m.

Dec. 15. Crocker Kiln, 6361 W. County Line Road, Lula. Meaders and other local pottery wares to choose from. Free to attend.

2013 Youth Art Competition and Pottery Studio Exhibit, Helen. March 3-16. Helen Arts and Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. Opening reception March 3. Free. 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org or info@ helenarts.org “Mountain Matters,” opening reception. 5-7 p.m.

March 21. Helen Arts and Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. 706-878-3933, www. helenarts.org or info@helenarts.org “Dreamwork” opening reception. 5-7 p.m. May 23.

Helen Arts and Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org or info@ helenarts.org

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Thursday, December 6, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

‘Christmas Carol’ held over From staff reports Lawrenceville — The popularity of Aurora Theatre’s newest holiday tradition cannot be contained in a mere 10 performances. The run of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” has been extended through Dec. 23.

Now in his sixth year, Anthony P. Rodriguez is delighting audiences with his compelling solo performance of the holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol.”

Similar to the way Charles Dickens performed his stories by the fireside in Victorian England, Rodriguez focuses on the classic art of storytelling.

Using his voice and mannerisms, Rodriguez brings life to Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Jacob Marley and the astonishing ghosts found in the greatest Christmas story of all time.

Nestled in the intimate Gwinnett Federal Credit Union Studio, the 90-seat theater is transformed into Dickens’ parlor. Although a few special theatrical effects have been added, this rendition captures the true spirit of Christmas—the joy of giving.

The story is adapted for the stage and directed by Tony Brown.

Aurora Theatre has developed a special touring version for schools that has proved to be popular as well. So much so, the theater is employing an additional actor to fill the demand for booking requests.

Anthony Rodriguez in Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

For Get Out

Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday Where: Gwinnett Federal Credit Union Studio, 128 Pike St., Lawrenceville Tickets: $15 More info: 678-226-6222, www. auroratheatre.com

Michael Jared Tarver is a member of Aurora Theatre’s Apprentice Company.

The Apprentice Company is a new training program which gives emerging professionals post-graduate training and real-world experience in a professional theater setting. A public performance at 8 p.m. Dec. 20, will feature Tarver in a slightly abbreviated touring version.

Tickets for this show are $10.

Rockwell art comes alive

theater events This week

“Over The River and Through The Woods,” Blue Ridge. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6-9. Blue Ridge Community Theater. $18 general admission, $9 students. 706-632-9223, www.BlueRidgeCommunityTheater.com The Coarse Acting Show, Dahlonega. 7 p.m. Dec. 6-8, 2 p.m. Dec. 9. Chestatee High School Theater, Dahlonega.

“Narnia,” Buford. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 7-9. Buford Community Center and Theater, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford.

Fifth Row Center. $15, $20 and $25.

770-945-6762, info@fifthrowcenter.com or www.fifthrowcenter.com “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Sundays. Dec. 7-9, 14-16, and 2123. The Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. $15. 706-864-3759, www.

HollyTheater.com Sing Along with Santa, Lawrenceville. 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Dec. 8. Aurora Theatre, 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. $7.

678-226-6222, www.auroratheatre.com “Madeline’s Christmas,” Atlanta. 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m. Dec. 8-30. Horizon Theatre Company. $15 adults, $12 children. 404584-7450, horizontheatre.com “Annie The Musical,” Cumming. 8 p.m., 3 p.m. Sunday matinee. Dec. 9. Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www. playhousecumming.com “Smokey Joe’s Cafe,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11-13. Gainesville High School, Gainesville. $5. ghstheatre@ bellsouth.com

Upcoming

“Twas the Night Before Christmas,” Lawrenceville. 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Dec. 15. Aurora Theatre, 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. $7. 678-226-6222, www. auroratheatre.com “There’s A Song in the Air,” Clarkesville.

6-8 p.m. Dec. 15. Downtown Clarkesville.

“Sanders Family Christmas,” Cumming.

8 p.m. Dec. 17-22. Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. $25. 770781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com “Trouble in Toyland,” Lawrenceville.

10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Dec. 22.

Aurora Theatre, 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. $7. 678-226-6222, www. auroratheatre.com “Branson on the Road,” Cumming. Dec. 28-31. Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. $25. 770-781-9178, www. playhousecumming.com.

New Year’s Eve Event featuring Elvis, Cornelia. 8-10 p.m. Dec. 31. Habersham Community Theater, Cornelia. $25 per person, includes dessert and champagne. 706-839-1315, www. habershamtheater.org “The Odd Couple, Female Version,” Auditions, Flowery Branch. 7 p.m. Jan. 7.

The cast consists of 6 females ages 1960 and two adult males. Cold readings from the script. Fifth Row Center’s Studio, 5509 Main St., Flowery Branch. info@fifthrowcenter.com.

7 Shot Symphony, Gainesville. 10 a.m.

Jan. 16-17, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18-19, 5 p.m. Jan. 20. Sylvia Beard Theatre, Gainesville. Gainesville Theatre Alliance Public performances. 678-717-3624, gainesvilleTHEATREalliance.org

Athens group breathes life into holiday painting From staff reports Cornerstone Productions, the producers of the Athens Singing Christmas Tree, presents “The Christmas Post” on Dec. 7, 8 and 9 at the Historic Morton Theatre in Athens.

A cast of 90 actors and a full orchestra will bring to life the story from a Norman Rockwell painting as a reminder of what Christmas is really all about. This Broadway

‘The Christmas Post’ When: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7-8; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 8-9 Where: Historic Morton Theatre, Athens Tickets: $8-$15, on sale through Morton Theatre Box Office at 706-613-3771, mortontheatre.com.

More info: cornerstoneproductionsonline.com

style musical is full of toe-tapping songs, original ballads and familiar Christmas carols.

Advance tickets $10 in advance, $15 at the door for adults; $8 advance,

$10 at the door for college students, seniors and children under 10. You can buy them through the Morton Theatre Box Office at 706-613-3771 or online at mortontheatre.com.

TOM REED | The Times

“Smokey Joe’s Cafe,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11-13. Gainesville High School, Gainesville. $5. ghstheatre@bellsouth.com

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, December 6, 2012

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Be naturally decorative A homefront holiday History Center event crafts ornaments from the outdoors

BY SAVANNAH KING

sking@gainesvilletimes.com Northeast Georgia in the fall and winter months has a way of reconnecting people with nature.

The cool air, the crunch of leaves and a few pine cones can all become inspiration for some beautiful Christmas decorations.

Children can learn how to bring the beauty of nature indoors from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, at the Northeast Georgia History Center’s Family Day. The theme this month is a “Christmas from Nature” and will provide families and children with an opportunity to make some unique Christmas crafts from items found in nature.

Children will be able to create one-of-a-kind Christmas decorations out of items like pine cones, seeds, twigs and even okra.

“The really neat thing I think about this is because the material is so varied, there is a lot more options for the children’s ornaments to be very uniquely their own,” said Julie Carson, education and volunteer

coordinator for the History Center.

Volunteers have been busy trying out crafts using natural items from the area.

Carson said the crafts are all fairly easy and frustration free for most elementary school-aged children.

Santa Claus will make a special appearance between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Kids will have the chance to make a few gift requests while parents take advantage of the free photo op.

Children will be able to remember their visit with Santa for years to come by making a nature-inspired photo frame.

Carson said the family day events are always educational; the crafts will help children learn about the history of the area and about the item they’re using to create with.

“It’s so much fun to do and it’s just a great, great day,” Carson said.

Refreshments will be served and the Enota Show

Northeast Georgia History Center Family Day When: 1-4 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 9 Where: Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville How much: Free Contact: 770-2975900, www.negahc. org

Choir will perform at 1:30 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, call 770-297-5900 or visit www. negahc.org.

Gold museum to hold open house From staff reports The Dahlonega Gold Museum’s annual open house will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 9. The museum’s admission fee will be waived for the day.

Visitors will enjoy cookies and apple cider as a special gift to the community for all the support given to the museum.

The museum, housed in Georgia’s oldest surviving courthouse at 1 Public Square,

offers exhibits about the gold rush history of Dahlonega and a short film.

The gift shop offers unique items including books by some of the area’s best authors. During the visit, consider becoming a “Friend of the Gold Museum” volunteer.

For more information, contact the Dahlonega Gold Museum at 706-864-2257 or visit www.gastateparks.org.

go o y famil

Heritage Center celebrates a wartime Christmas From staff reports

The Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center invites folks to step back in time and participate in the holiday traditions of Christmas during the Civil War. Join the Union and Confederate troops on the front lines and on the homefront at the fifth annual Civil War holiday program at McDaniel Farm from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 8.

“This is a great family event for those who desire to learn and experience how the Civil War impacted Atlanta area families, especially during the holiday season,” said Jason West, GEHC’s director of programming and development.

The program will take guests back in time to December 1862 at McDaniel Farm as E.W. and A.W. McDaniel are on furlough to spend Christmas with the family.

Participants will meet local Gwinnett citizens who “participated” in the war in nearby Atlanta and other locations, engage in a drill with Civil War soldiers, visit soldier camp sites and participate in bayonet practice.

Guests can also make traditional holiday ornaments for the soldiers’ tree

For Get Out

Period re-enactors welcome guests to McDaniel Farm as they prepare to step back to December 1862 and celebrate the Christmas season during the Civil War.

and their own, learn about the McDaniel family history, have their photo made with Father Christmas, listen and participate in the singing of carols and join in a festive hayride.

Admission is $5 per person for Gwinnett County residents and GEHC members, $8 per person for out-of-county residents.

Children age 2 and younger are free.

Guests can preregister online at www. gwinnettEHC.org or pay at the gate. Event parking is available on site. McDaniel Farm is located at 3251 McDaniel Road in Duluth.

get out Thursday, December 6, 2012

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family

movies

music

Holiday Jam, Helen. 5-7 p.m.

Dec. 6 and Dec. 13. Helen Arts and Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen.

All instruments and all ages are welcome. $8 per person, $12 for two. 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org or info@ helenarts.org

review, 10

“Hyde Park on Hudson” focuses on a period in 1939 when the world was on the brink of World War II, and the United States hadn’t yet committed to supporting its allies militarily. (It’s hard to imagine that in hindsight, isn’t it?) The film spends most of its time on one weekend when King George VI (Samuel West) and Queen Elizabeth (Olivia Colman) of the United Kingdom visited Hyde Park.

‘Hyde Park on Hudson’

Advent Lessons & Carols: An Anglican Tradition, Gainesville. 5 p.m. Dec. 9.

Grace Episcopal Church, Gainesville. Free. 770536-0126, dbrown@ gracechurchgainesville.org.

Pancakes with Santa, Flowery Branch. 10 a.m. Dec. 8.

Mulberry Creek Community Center, 4491 JM Turk Road, Flowery Branch. $6 per child (includes up

Dahlonega Gold Museum Christmas Open House. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 9. Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site,

Christmas in the Park, Cornelia. Dec. 7-9, 14-16. Community House & Cornelia City Park. Ice skating $10, crafts, visits with Santa, holiday market. www.explorecornelia.com

Diane Durrett’s Georgia Christmas, Dahlonega. 8-10:30 p.m. Dec. 8. The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $12 in advance, $14 day of show. 706-864-3982, www. thecrimsonmoon.com.

Community Christmas Concert, Suwanee. 7 p.m. Dec. 8-9 and 16. Dec. 8 and 9 concerts will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints’ Church, 4833 Suwanee Dam Road, Suwanee. Dec. 16 at the LDS multipurpose building, 1150 Cole Drive, Suwanee. 404-3757882, visit www.sugarhillldschoir.org.

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

weekeND plANNeR

Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

gainesvilletimes.com/getout

The Associated Press

Dec. 31:

Dec. 22:

Dec. 15:

“It’s a Wonderful Life,” Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. Dec. 79, 14-16, and 21-23. The Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. $15. 706-864-3759, www.HollyTheater.com

Chestatee Artists’ Holiday Arts & Crafts Show & Sale, Dahlonega. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 8, noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 9. Lumpkin County Parks YMCA, Dahlonega. Artists will provide handcrafted, unique door prizes for shoppers throughout the two day event www. chestateeartists.com

Dahlonega. Explore the magic of handmade folk toys and try your hand at churning butter. $5 parking. 706-344-1505.

Square Dance, Gainesville. 8:30 to midnight. Dec. 31. First Presbyterian Church, 800 South Enota Drive, Gainesville. Lakeshore Squares will host New Year’s Eve Square Dance. Snacks and Refreshments will be provided. Advanced purchase $10 or $12.50 at door. 404-808-8689, www. lakeshoresquares.com

Old Time Radio: Fibber McGee & Molly, Gainesville. Dec. 22. Brenau University, Public Radio WBCX FM 89.1. Listen to favorite holiday songs

by Jennifer Ferrin and Dodi Pritchett. www.brenau.edu\wbcx

Fun at the Fort, Winder. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 15. Fort Yargo State Park, Winder. Experience a picturesque and fascinating historic site within the state park, while learning about life in the late 1700s. $3 plus $5 parking.

770-867-3489.

“Smokey Joe’s Cafe,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11-13.

Gainesville High School, Gainesville. $5. ghstheatre@ bellsouth.com

7 Shot Symphony, Gainesville. 10 a.m. Jan. 16-17, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18-19, 5 p.m. Jan. 20. Sylvia Beard Theatre, Gainesville. Gainesville Theatre Alliance Public performances. gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.

JAN. 16:

lOOkING AHeAD

“Narnia,” Buford. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7-9. Buford Community Center and Theater, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford. Fifth Row Center. $15, $20 and $25. 770-9456762, info@fifthrowcenter.com or www.fifthrowcenter.com

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North Georgians will get their first look at an art exhibit where the love of animals and the love of art becomes one. The Dog and Pony Show opens Dec. 6 and runs through Feb. 16 at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center in Gainesville.

2012 Dog and Pony Show.

Dec. 11-13:

theater

arts

TOM reeD | The Times

to 2 adults), $4 for additional children from same family, $4 for additional adults.

770-965-7140.

For Get Out

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Thursday, December 6, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

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‘Hyde Park’ a royal ramble, but it works JEFF MARKER jmarker@gsc.edu

Film Review

Strong scenes, acting save historic tale of FDR and king “Hyde Park on Hudson” might be the strangest movie I recommend all year.

The film is based on the diary and various papers of Margaret Stuckley, who went by “Daisy” (Laura Linney) and was a distant cousin of Franklin Delano Focus Features Roosevelt (Bill Murray).

Throughout his presidency, From left, Laura Linney as Daisy, and Bill Murray as Franklin D. Roosevelt ride in a car in a scene from “Hyde Park FDR made extended, working on Hudson.” visits to his mother’s home, impending war. from the real Daisy’s letters, dubbed Hyde Park, in upstate mercy of their host country, Daisy was merely a fly on introduces the story and runs New York. Daisy lived nearby, and they are the guests of what the wall for this weekend, but throughout the film. and over the years she and is essentially a dysfunctional she — supposedly — provides However, she does not have FDR developed a close, unique family. West and Colman play our surrogate perspective on the most screen time or the relationship that went well their parts beautifully, and their this geopolitical turning point, most compelling story. beyond cousins. scenes are the best moments in and her love affair with FDR The scenes between FDR and “Hyde Park on Hudson” the film.

— supposedly — provides the King George are wonderfully focuses on a period in 1939 And that is the paradox of movie’s heart. written and acted. We watch when the world was on the brink “Hyde Park on Hudson.” The Anyone with a mild interest the king struggle to handle the of World War II, and the United Bertie and Elizabeth and Bertie in history knows a lot, relatively enormous responsibility of his States hadn’t yet committed to and FDR scenes couldn’t speaking, about this pivotal position, as FDR tries to mentor supporting its allies militarily. (It’s possibly have come from the period, yet the story of this his counterpart personally hard to imagine that in hindsight, real Daisy’s memoirs. They weekend is largely unknown. while maintaining a distance isn’t it?) violate the entire premise of the So, like in “Argo,” we get a new appropriate for the situation.

The film spends most of its film. It’s a glaring narrative flaw angle on an old story.

The most interesting storyline time on one weekend when King that will irritate anyone who The movie also offers in the film, however, belongs to George VI (Samuel West) and values quality storytelling. revelations about FDR, his wife the royal couple, though “Hyde Queen Elizabeth (Olivia Colman) Yet those are undeniably Eleanor (Olivia Williams) and the Park on Hudson” trods some of of the United Kingdom visited the best parts of the film. They king and queen. the same ground as “The King’s Hyde Park. are filled with more humanity, Ironically, the least interesting Speech.”

It was the first time a British tension and humor than any part of the movie is Daisy.

Bertie and Elizabeth, as they king and queen had made an scene in which Daisy appears.

The film is marketed as being call each other, are a husband official visit to the U.S., and The filmmakers seem to about her relationship with FDR. and wife who care deeply for the new, uncertain, stuttering recognize this, too. The story Daisy’s voice-over narration, one another, they are the leaders king desperately needed to win of FDR and Daisy developing which seems to come straight of an imperiled country at the the president’s support for the their rather icky little relationship

‘Hyde Park on Hudson’ Starring: Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Olivia Williams, Olivia Colman, Samuel West Rated: R, for brief sexuality Runtime: 1 hour, 34 minutes Bottom line: Hugely flawed but still worth it

is summarized in a couple of scenes and a montage that occupies less than 15 minutes.

“Hyde Park on Hudson” could just as easily have been titled “Bertie and Elizabeth.” It would be more logical — but certainly much less marketable — to put West and Colman on the movie posters rather than Murray and Linney.

With a few surprisingly clumsy exceptions, the individual scenes are well written and the acting is excellent throughout.

Like FDR himself, the positive qualities of “Hyde Park on Hudson” are strong enough to make us overlook its frailties.

Jeff Marker teaches film and literature at Gainesville State College. His reviews appear weekly in Get Out and on gainesvilletimes.com/getout.

goo movies Showtimes

Bargain shows denoted by parenthesis ( ).

Hollywood Stadium Cinemas 770-539-9200 120 Green Hill Circle NW, Gainesville

Argo (R) Thu. 4:45 The Collection (R) Thu. 5:00-7:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-3:00-5:00-7:30-10:00 End of Watch (R) Fri. 1:30-4:00-7:15-9:45 Sat. 7:15-9:45 Sun. 1:30-4:00-7:15-9:45 Flight (R) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:30 Fri. 12:453:45-6:45-9:30 Sat. 12:45-9:30 Sun. 12:45-3:45-6:45-9:30 Killing Them Softly (R) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-4:00-7:00-9:45 Life of Pi (PG) Thu. 4:15-7:15-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-4:15 Life of Pi 3D (PG) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:45 Fri.Sun. 7:00-9:45 Lincoln (PG-13) Thu. 3:45-7:00-9:15 Fri.Sun. 12:30-3:45-7:00-9:15 Lord of the Rings Trilogy Marathon (Not Rated) Sat. 11:00 The Metropolitan Opera: Un Ballo in Maschera Live (Not Rated) Sat. 12:55 Playing for Keeps (PG-13) Fri.-Sun. 1:304:00-7:00-9:45 Red Dawn (PG-13) Thu. 5:15-7:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:45-3:00-5:15-7:30-10:00 Rise of the Guardians (PG) Thu. 5:00-7:1510:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:30-2:45-5:00-7:1510:00 Rise of the Guardians 3D (PG) Thu. 4:156:45-9:15 Fri.-Sun. 1:45-4:15-6:45-9:15 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu. 3:45-6:45-8:00-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 12:45-3:45-6:45-9:30 Taken 2 (PG-13) Thu. 4:45-7:15-10:00 Fri. 2:15-4:45-7:15-10:00 Sat. 4:45-7:15 Sun. 2:15-4:45-7:15-10:00 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (PG13) Thu. 4:15-4:45-7:00-7:30-9:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-1:30-4:15-4:45-7:00-7:309:30-10:00 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu. 4:15-6:45-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:45-4:15-6:45-9:45

Regal Mall of Georgia Stadium 20 678-482-5858

3333 Buford Drive, Suite 3000, Buford

The Collection (R) Thu. 12:50-3:20-5:307:40-9:50 Fri. 10:30-12:50-3:05-5:15-7:409:50-12:01 Sat. 3:05-5:15-7:40-9:50-12:01 Sun. 10:30-12:50-3:05-5:15-7:40-9:50 End of Watch (R) Fri.-Sun. 11:50-2:20-4:507:30-10:10 Flight (R) Thu. 1:05-4:05-7:20-10:30 Fri.Sun. 1:00-4:05-7:20-10:30 Killing Them Softly (R) Thu. 12:40-3:055:25-7:50-10:20 Fri.-Sat. 10:50-1:30-4:157:00-9:25-11:50 Sun. 10:50-1:30-4:157:00-9:25

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, December 6, 2012

‘Twilight’ and ‘Skyfall’ remain top picks for fans LOS ANGELES— The “Twilight” finale and “Skyfall” continued to dominate the box office on a typically slow postThanksgiving weekend that brought big business for holdover films but a poor start for Brad Pitt’s new crime story.

Pitt’s “Killing Them Softly,” the weekend’s top new release, tanked with just $7 million domestically, coming in at No. 7 behind a big batch of holdovers.

The “Twilight” finale and “Skyfall” were close enough that domestic rankings could flip-flop when final numbers are released Monday.

Either way, the two movies have led a brisk start to the holiday season that could lift Hollywood to record domestic revenues for the year.

Adapted from George V. Higgins’ novel “Cogan’s Trade,” “Killing Them Softly” stars Pitt as a gang enforcer on the trail of two small-time crooks who held up a mob-protected card game.

The weekend’s other new wide release, LD Entertainment’s horror tale “The Collection,” also flopped at No. 10 Life of Pi (PG) Thu. 2:10-3:20-5:00-7:509:15-10:40 Fri.-Sun. 10:50-2:10-3:205:00-7:50-9:15-10:40 Life of Pi 3D (PG) Thu. 12:20-1:05-4:006:20-7:05-9:55 Fri.-Sat. 12:20-1:00-4:006:20-7:05-9:55-12:15 Sun. 12:20-1:004:00-6:20-7:05-9:55 Lincoln (PG-13) Thu. 12:45-2:50-4:00-6:107:15-9:25-10:30 Fri.-Sun. 12:45-2:504:00-6:10-7:15-9:30-10:30 Lord of the Rings Marathon (Not Rated) Sat. 11:15 Playing for Keeps (PG-13) Fri.-Sat. 10:2012:40-3:05-5:25-7:45-10:05-12:25 Sun. 10:20-12:40-3:05-5:25-7:45-10:05 Red Dawn (PG-13) Thu. 12:10-1:10-2:353:45-5:00-7:15-7:55-9:30-10:15 Fri.-Sat. 12:00-2:35-5:00-7:25-9:45-12:05 Sun. 12:00-2:35-5:00-7:25-9:45 Rise of the Guardians (PG) Thu. 11:5012:40-2:15-4:40-5:30-7:10-9:35-10:25 Fri.-Sat. 11:55-12:30-2:15-4:40-5:30-7:109:35-10:20-12:01 Sun. 11:55-12:30-2:154:40-5:30-7:10-9:35-10:20 Rise of the Guardians 3D (PG) Thu. 1:303:05-3:50-6:30-8:00-9:00 Fri.-Sat. 10:451:30-2:55-3:50-6:30-8:00-9:00-11:25 Sun. 10:45-1:30-2:55-3:50-6:30-8:00-9:00 Silver Linings Playbook (R) Thu. 1:50-4:407:30-10:15 Fri.-Sun. 11:00-1:50-4:407:35-10:15 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu. 1:15-2:10-4:20-5:207:30-8:30-10:40 Fri. 11:00-1:10-2:104:20-5:20-7:30-8:30-10:40-11:40 Sat.

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Playing for Keeps (PG-13) Fri.-Sun. (12:102:35-5:00) 7:25-9:50 Red Dawn (PG-13) Thu. (1:00-4:00) 7:1510:05 Fri.-Sun. (12:15-2:40-5:05) 7:3010:10 Rise of the Guardians (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:002:30-5:00) 7:40 Rise of the Guardians 3D (PG) Thu. (12:303:00-5:30) 8:10 Fri.-Sun. (12:30-3:00-5:30) 8:00 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (12:00-3:25) 6:45-10:00 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (PG13) Thu.-Sun. (12:30-3:20) 6:10-9:00 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu.-Sun. (2:45) 8:05 Wreck-It Ralph 3D (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:005:25)

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with $3.4 million, averaging $2,430 in 1,403 theaters.

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com.

Where available, latest international numbers are also included.

1. “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2,” $17.4 million ($48.4 million international) 2. “Skyfall,” $17 million ($34 million international).

3. “Lincoln,” $13.51 million.

4. “Rise of the Guardians,” $13.5 million ($40 million international).

5. “Life of Pi,” $12 million ($21.5 million international).

6. “Wreck-It Ralph,” $7.02 million ($1.5 million international).

7. “Killing Them Softly,” $7 million ($700,000 international).

8. “Red Dawn,” $6.6 million ($500,000 international).

9. “Flight,” $4.5 million.

10. “The Collection,” $3.4 million.

Associated Press

1:10-4:20-7:30-10:40 Sun. 11:00-1:102:10-4:20-5:20-7:30-8:30-10:40 Skyfall: The IMAX Experience (PG-13) Thu.Sun. 12:15-3:30-7:00-10:05 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (PG13) Thu. 12:00-1:00-1:55-3:10-4:10-4:456:10-7:00-7:45-9:00-9:45-10:30 Fri.-Sat. 10:20-11:50-1:05-2:30-3:45-5:10-6:257:50-9:10-10:35-11:55 Sun. 10:20-11:501:05-2:30-3:45-5:10-6:25-7:50-9:10-10:35 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu. 1:45-4:25-7:109:50 Fri.-Sat. 11:10-1:45-4:25-7:10-9:5012:20 Sun. 11:10-1:45-4:25-7:10-9:50 Wreck-It Ralph 3D (PG) Thu.-Sun. 12:10

Movies 400 678-513-4400

415 Atlanta Road, Cumming

The Collection (R) Thu. (12:45-3:00-5:15) 7:30-9:45 Fri.-Sun. (1:00-3:15-5:30) 7:4510:00 End of Watch (R) Fri.-Sun. 7:30-10:10 Flight (R) Thu. (12:15-3:25) 6:35-9:45 Killing Them Softly (R) Thu. (1:05-4:00) 7:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. (12:05-2:35-5:05) 7:35-10:05 Life of Pi (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:20-3:20) 6:209:20 Life of Pi 3D (PG) Thu. (12:50-3:50) 6:509:50 Fri.-Sun. (12:50-3:50) Lincoln (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (11:50-3:10) 6:30-9:50

Habersham Hills Cinemas 6 706-776-7469 2115 Cody Road, Mount Airy

Killing Them Softly (R) Thu.-Fri. 4:15-6:459:30 Sat.-Sun. 1:30-4:15-6:45-9:30 Life of Pi (PG) Thu.-Fri. 4:00-7:00-9:45 Sat.Sun. 1:00-4:00-7:00-9:45 Playing for Keeps (PG-13) Fri. 3:45-6:058:20 Sat.-Sun. 12:30-3:45-6:05-8:20 Red Dawn (PG-13) Thu.-Fri. 4:45-7:1510:00 Sat.-Sun. 12:15-2:30-4:45-7:1510:00 Rise of the Guardians (PG) Thu.-Fri. 4:307:15-9:45 Sat.-Sun. 1:15-4:30-7:15-9:45 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu. 3:45-7:00-10:15 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (PG13) Thu.-Fri. 5:00-7:30-10:00 Sat.-Sun. 12:00-2:30-5:00-7:30-10:00

Dawson 400 Stadium Cinemas 706-216-1622 189 North 400 Center Lane, Dawsonville

The Collection (R) Thu. 4:15-7:20-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:35-2:40-4:40-7:20-10:05 Flight (R) Thu. 7:05-9:20 Killing Them Softly (R) Thu. 4:40-7:30-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 12:30-2:45-5:00-7:15-10:00 Life of Pi (PG) Thu. 4:10 Fri.-Sun. 1:00 Life of Pi 3D (PG) Thu. 7:10-9:55 Fri.-Sun. 4:10-7:10-9:55 Lincoln (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-7:05-9:30 Fri.Sun. 12:50-4:00-7:00-9:20 Playing for Keeps (PG-13) Fri.-Sun. 1:204:15-7:15-9:40 Red Dawn (PG-13) Thu. 4:25-7:10-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:40-2:50-5:00-7:10-9:20 Rise of the Guardians (PG) Thu. 5:05-7:359:50 Fri.-Sun. 12:30-5:05-9:50 Rise of the Guardians 3D (PG) Thu. 4:35 Fri.Sun. 2:45-7:35 Skyfall (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:20 Fri.Sun. 12:30-4:00-7:00-9:30 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (PG-13) Thu. 4:05-7:05-9:35 Fri.-Sun. 1:304:05-7:05-9:35 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu. 4:00-7:00-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:30-4:00-7:00-9:25

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Thursday, December 6, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

now showing Movie reviews from Associated Press. Stars out of four.

opening

‘Hyde Park on Hudson’ ■ Review, 10 ‘Hitchcock’

HH½ (PG-13 for some violent images, sexual content and thematic material.) The man who made “Psycho” was no lightweight, though he kind of comes off that way in this portrait of Alfred Hitchcock. Starring Anthony Hopkins as Hitchcock and Helen Mirren as his wife and collaborator, Alma, the film puts a featherlight yet entertaining touch on the behind-the-scenes struggle to make the mother of all slasher films. Hitchcock’s very dark side gets superficial treatment as the film offers the cinematic equivalent of psychobabble to explore the director’s notorious gluttony, sexual repression and idolization of his leading ladies.

Though shallow, the film has a playful quality that often makes it good fun, its spirit of whimsy a wink that director Sacha Gervasi and his team know they’re riffing on Hitchcock’s merrily macabre persona and not examining the man with any great depth or insight. The film centers on Hitchcock’s professional and personal struggles while filming his great suspense thriller, with Scarlett Johansson and James D’Arcy offering eerie impersonations of “Psycho” co-stars Janet Leigh and Anthony Perkins. Hopkins’ prosthetic makeup looks a bit fake, but the spirit of Hitchcock comes through in his sly performance, and he captures the measured cadence of the filmmaker’s speech even

The Weinstein Company

Brad Pitt holds a gun in a scene from “Killing Them Softly.”

though he doesn’t sound much like Hitchcock. If the film ultimately feels inconsequential, it always aims to please, and for the most part, it does. As Alma says at one point, even “Psycho,” after all, was just a movie. With Jessica Biel, Danny Huston and Toni Collette.

continuing ‘Killing Them Softly’

HH(R for violence, sexual references, pervasive language and some drug use.) Writer-director Andrew Dominik’s film is an incredibly stylish genre exercise set in the world of mobsters, junkies and lowlifes, but it’s also trying incredibly hard to be About Something. Not content merely to be profane, abrasive and occasionally, darkly amusing, it also wants to be relevant. And so Dominik has taken the 1974 crime novel “Cogan’s Trade” by George V. Higgins and set it in the days before the 2008 presidential election, just as the U.S. economy is in the midst of catastrophic collapse. Every television and radio is tuned to thencandidate Barack Obama or President George W.

Bush addressing the nation — even in bars and thugs’ cars — with the volume cranked way up, commenting all too obviously on the film’s action. As if we couldn’t decipher for ourselves that organized crime functions as its own form of capitalism, “Killing Them Softly” turns on the mini-implosion that occurs when a couple of idiots rob a mob-protected card game. Scoot McNairy plays the jittery ex-con Frankie; his inept partner is a heroin addict played by Ben Mendelsohn. Both are aggressively grungy. The corporate types at the top of the syndicate want to restore order, so they ask Jackie Cogan, an enforcer played by Brad Pitt (star of Dominik’s haunting, poetic “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford”), to investigate the heist and punish the perpetrators.

This is one of those effortless Pitt performances that exemplify how beautifully he manages to be both a serious actor and a superstar. The film’s best scenes are the ones he shares with James Gandolfini as a brazen but insecure hit man.

Fox Searchlight

Anthony Hopkins, as Alfred Hitchcock, sits in a directors chair in a scene from “Hitchcock.”

‘Life of Pi’

HHH½ (PG for emotional thematic content throughout, and some scary action sequences and peril.)

Author Yann Martel’s tale of a shipwrecked youth cast adrift on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger is one of those lyrical, internalized novels that should have no business working on the screen. Quite possibly, it wouldn’t have worked if anyone but Ang Lee had adapted it. Lee (“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” “Brokeback Mountain”) has crafted one of the finest entries in his eclectic resume with this gorgeous, ruminative film that is soulfully, provocatively entertaining.

The filmmaker combines a lifetime of storytelling finesse with arguably the most artful use of digital 3-D technology yet seen to bring Martel’s story to life. It’s a delicate narrative with visceral impact, told

with an innovative style that’s beguiling to watch and a philosophical voice that compassionately explores how and why we tell stories. Newcomer Suraj Sharma stars as Pi, an Indian teen lost at sea with the ravenous big cat from his family’s menagerie. This could be a one-note story — please Mister Tiger, don’t eat me. Yet Lee finds rich and clever ways to translate even Pi’s stillest moments, the film unfolding through

intricate flashbacks, whimsical voice-overs, harrowing sea hazards and exquisite flashes of fantasy and hallucination.

The computer-animated tiger is remarkably lifelike, seamlessly blended into the live action. And as in Martin Scorsese’s “Hugo,” Lee’s 3-D images are tantalizing and immersive, pulling viewers deeper into Pi’s world so that the illusion of depth becomes essential to the story.

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, December 6, 2012

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‘Anna Karenina’

HH½ (R for some sexuality and violence.) All the world’s a stage, very literally, in Joe Wright’s wildly theatrical adaptation of “Anna Karenina.” Wright and screenwriter Tom Stoppard (“Shakespeare in Love”) have taken Leo Tolstoy’s literary behemoth about love, betrayal and death among the elite in imperial Russia and boldly set it almost entirely within a decaying theater. The inspiration comes from the notion that the members of high society conducted themselves as if they were performing on stage.

The result is technically dazzling, a marvel of timing and choreography.

“Anna Karenina” is at once cleverly contained and breathtakingly fluid.

But wondrous as all this artifice is, it’s also a huge distraction. The selfconsciousness of the structure keeps us at arm’s length emotionally. Rather than feeling the suffering of the adulterous Anna (Keira Knightley), we’re more likely to notice how beautiful the suffering looks — the flattering lighting, her wild mane of dark curls spread meticulously across her pillow case. And eventually the trickery actually becomes a bit predictable.

Still, it’s impossible not to have huge admiration for this ambitious, complicated risk. Jude Law co-stars as Anna’s cuckolded husband with Aaron Taylor-Johnson as the flirtatious cavalry officer who woos her away.

‘Silver Linings Playbook’

HHH½ (R for language and some sexual content/ nudity.) From mental illness and adultery to football obsession and competitive dance, David O. Russell’s comic drama follows a wily and winding path that consistently defies expectations. He’s pulled

go o movies The Weinstein Company Focus Features

Aaron Taylor-Johnson, left, holds Keira Knightley’s face in a scene from “Anna Karenina.”

off a tricky feat here, finding just the right tone in crafting a romantic comedy whose sweethearts suffer from bipolar disorder and depression. He never condescends to his characters; “Silver Linings Playbook” isn’t mawkish, nor is it wacky and crass in the opposite extreme.

Serving as both writer and director in adapting Matthew Quick’s novel, Russell has developed affectionately fleshed-out characters in a deeply steeped sense of place: working-class Philadelphia.

They feature personality quirks that vaguely recall his 2004 comedy “I (Heart) Huckabees,” but rather than seeming weird for weird’s sake, these are more complicated figures, which ultimately makes their journeys more meaningful.

The Russell film this actually resembles most is probably his recent Oscar-winner “The Fighter” in terms of its realism, but with an off-kilter

optimism that’s ultimately winning. Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence both give inspired performances that allow them to play against type as the unlikely couple at the center of this romance: a high-school teacher who just left a mental institution after a breakdown and a young woman recently widowed after the death of her police-officer husband.

‘Red Dawn’

H (PG-13 for sequences of intense war violence and action, and for language.)

The army invading the United States in this ill-advised remake of the campy 1984 original was changed in post-production from Chinese to North Korean. The filmmakers re-edited and reshot, fearful of offending China and its increasingly important moviegoing market. The original, of course, was made at the height of Cold War paranoia and imagined

Bradley Cooper in “Silver Linings Playbook.”

a parachuting Soviet Union on American soil, with the likes of Patrick Swayze and Charlie Sheen waging guerrilla warfare. Again, in director Dan Bradley’s remake, America turns to its high school football players in its darkest time of need.

Josh Peck, Josh Hutcherson and Adrianne Palicki are part of the gang who dub themselves the Wolverines.

With the help of a returning Iraq veteran played by Chris Hemsworth, they mount an insurrection on the controlling North Koreans.

The implausibility is dizzying all around. Real wars like those in Afghanistan and Iraq go hardly mentioned, replaced by a game of toy soldiers with make-believe foes.

‘The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2’

HHH (PG-13 for sequences of violence including disturbing images, some sensuality and partial nudity.) Finally — finally!

— the “Twilight” franchise embraces its own innate absurdity with this gleefully

over-the-top conclusion.

This is by far the best film in the series. This does not necessarily mean it’s good. But as it reaches its prolonged and wildly violent crescendo, it’s at least entertaining in a totally nutso way. The first four adaptations of Stephenie Meyer’s mega-best sellers about the girl-vampirewerewolf love triangle were, for the most part, laughably self-serious affairs full of mopey teen angst, stilted dialogue and cheesy special effects. Now, Bill Condon finally lets his freak flag fly.

Bella (Kristen Stewart) and Edward (Robert Pattinson) are now married vampires and parents to a newborn daughter, Renesmee (Mackenzie Foy). With the help of the bloodsucking Cullen clan and vampires gathered from around the globe, they must band together with Edward’s former romantic rival Jacob (Taylor Lautner) and his werewolf buddies to protect the half-human, half-vampire spawn from the evil and suspicious Volturi.

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Thursday, December 6, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Real Deals of Jefferson will host Vince Dooley from 2-5 p.m. at 21 Cobb St. The event is free and open to the public.

For Get Out

Dooley to visit Jefferson From staff reports Georgia’s legendary coach and athletic director Vince Dooley will visit with fans in Jefferson on Thursday, Dec. 6, as part of his book tour of Georgia.

Real Deals of Jefferson will host Dooley from 2-5 p.m. at 21 Cobb St. There is no admission, and the public is invited.

Since his retirement from the University of Georgia, Dooley has authored several books.

“Dooley: My Forty Years at Georgia” is his bestselling autobiography.

“Dooley’s Playbook: The

34 Most Memorable Plays in Georgia Football History” chronicles plays dating from 1919 and features vivid illustrations by artist Steve Penley.

“Vince Dooley’s Garden — the Horticultural Journey of a Football Coach” features fabulous and famous gardens, including his own.

The just-released “History and Reminiscences of the University of Georgia” features his own research and writing about the storied flagship university as the nation’s oldest land grant institution. It is

family events This week

Festival of Trees, Helen. 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8. Unicoi State Park and Lodge, Helen. View beautifully decorated trees throughout Unicoi Lodge. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Christmas Card Week crafts, Gainesville.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3-7. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. $1 with paid admission, members free. 770-536-1900.

Christmas in the Park, Cornelia. Dec. 7-9, 14-16. Community House & Cornelia City Park. Ice skating $10, crafts, visits with Santa, holiday market. www. explorecornelia.com Christmas at the Fairgrounds, Cumming. 4-

also illustrated by Penley.

Additionally, Dooley brings numbered artist prints (from original paintings in his home), game day memorabilia, DVDs and other items.

Copies of his books will be available for purchase to have autographed.

“These are fun events as we travel across Georgia,” Dooley said, “As it’s up close with fans of all ages, and we had a terrific turnout ... last fall, so they are kind enough to invite me again.”

For additional information, call 706367-8089.

Dust off the black tie Annual Charity Ball set for Saturday night

By Shannan Finke

sfinke@gainesvilletimes.com After 61 years, the Junior League of Gainesville-Hall County’s annual Charity Ball continues to make an impact on the community through local agencies around the holiday season.

The Charity Ball, which began in 1951 when the Junior League was founded, is the organization’s largest fundraiser to help supply its annual grant process for local organizations that help families in need.

Katie Dubnik, co-chairwoman of this year’s Charity Ball, explained that local agencies apply for the Junior League grants each year for specifically identified projects that meet the Junior League’s funding criteria.

A portion of the money is also reserved for internal funding of the Junior League and the specific initiatives that the League has identified during its Strengthening Our Families initiative, as well as a signature grant program.

“Not only is it a long-standing holiday tradition, but it allows the Junior League to carry out its vision of making Northeast Georgia a better place for children and families,” said Dubnik.

Each year, several rising junior and senior high school girls are chosen to be Belle of the Ball candidates by community civic organizations. The girls work on raising as much money as they can from Oct. 1 up

10 p.m. Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 8.

Cumming Fairgrounds, Cumming. Arts and crafts, free photos with Santa. $1, ages 12 and younger free. www.cummingfair.net or www.christmasincentralpark.com Christmas in the Park, Maysville. Dec. 8.

Pancakes with Santa, Flowery Branch. 10 a.m. Dec. 8. Mulberry Creek Community Center, 4491 JM Turk Road, Flowery Branch. $6 per child (includes up to 2 adults), $4 for additional children from same family, $4 for additional adults. 770965-7140.

Christmas for Travelers, Toccoa. 1-5 p.m. Dec. 8. Travelers Rest Historic Site, Toccoa. Visitors will enjoy live music and period dances by the 1860s Civilian Society. $2-$4. 706-356-4362.

Santa at Fun World, Young Harris. 2-4 p.m.

Dec. 8. Fun World, 1159 Jack Dayton Circle, Young Harris. Join Santa for milk

and cookies. Have your picture made with Santa.

Christmas Tree Lighting at Vogel, Blairsville. 4-6:45 p.m. Dec. 8. Vogel State Park, 405 Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville. Tree lighting, caroling, hayrides, Santa Claus visit, bonfires, hot chocolate and cider. Free. 706-745-2628, www.

GeorgiaStateParks.org Dahlonega Gold Museum Christmas Open House, Dahlonega. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 9. Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, Dahlonega. Explore the magic of handmade folk toys and try your hand at churning butter. $5 parking. 706-3441505.

Family Day, Gainesville. 1-4 p.m. Dec. 9. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. Sit on Santa’s lap for a free photo. Decorate a frame for your Santa photo. Make Christmas

to the night of the event. In turn, the Junior League uses the funds to help the “programs and agencies who make Gainesville-Hall County a better place for women and children.”

The candidate who raises the most money will be crowned Belle of the Ball by last year’s winning belle, Molly Gay. “The crowning of the Belle of the Ball is the highlight of the event,” said Elizabeth Latta, a co-chair for this year’s ball. “Miss Gay did an incredible job last year in her fundraising efforts and has been a great role model for this year’s belle candidates.”

The club that represents the Belle of the Ball is presented a check for a percentage of the total raised. The other sponsoring clubs will receive $500 in recognition of their participation during the February Junior League general membership meeting, according to Dubnik.

This year’s ball will take place at 8 p.m.

Saturday at Chattahoochee Country Club, 3000 Club Drive in Gainesville. Dress code will be black tie with an old Hollywood theme.

Tickets are $75 individually or $125 per couple and should be bought through the Junior League office at 770-5351951. Purchases may go to support any belle candidate. Supporters may also donate to candidates online at www. gainesvillehalljuniorleague.org or by calling the Junior League office. ornaments and decorations using natural materials. Free. 770-297-5900, jcarson@ brenau.edu or www.negahc.org

Upcoming

Holi-Day Camp for Juniors, Helen. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 18. Smithgall Woods State Park, Helen. Outdoor playtime is mixed with indoor craft time to keep noses warm and spirits high. Kids ages 6-8. $30 plus $5 parking. 706-878-3087.

Ongoing

Magical Nights of Lights, Buford. Nov. 17 to Dec. 31. Lake Lanier Islands Resort, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford.

More than seven miles of illuminated characters and scenes, Santa’s workshop. $40-$60, $90 vans, $250 buses. 770-9458787, www.lakelanierislands.com

CMYK

goo music

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, December 6, 2012

Von Grey comes to SNCA stage Sister act von Grey will perform live at the SNCA stage in Sautee Friday night. The show starts at 8 p.m.

From staff reports With soulful four-part harmonies, poetic lyrics and indelible melodies, it’s easy to see why some hail von Grey as “nothing short of stunning.”

They sound like they were born to play together — and, in fact, they were. The four sisters have been playing music nearly their entire lives.

Classically trained from an early age, the Atlanta-based quartet — Kathryn, Annika, Fiona and Petra von Grey — have built on that foundation by performing upward of 200 shows in the past two years, from recurring residency tours at intimate venues throughout the southeastern U.S. to supporting gigs with such artists as Sarah McLachlan.

Their forthcoming five-song EP, recorded with Grammy awardwinning producer/engineer Nick DiDia (Bruce Springsteen, Train, The Gaslight Anthem), captures the band’s essence and the raw intensity of their live performances.

“There are times when musical expression is more important than

For Get Out

perfect execution,” explains Fiona.

She and Annika are von Grey’s lead vocalists and chief songwriters.

“There are times I want to hear my fingers slide on the guitar string, when the breath I take before a phrase is as important as the lyric that follows.”

Working in a vein similar to that of such contemporaries as The Civil Wars and Mumford & Sons, von Grey masterfully melds folk, bluegrass and country influences, imbuing time-honored musical idioms with a

Piedmont Chorale to present service of ‘Lessons and Carols’ From staff reports The Piedmont College Chorale will present its 24th annual Service of Lessons and Carols at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 7-8 in the chapel on the Demorest campus.The performances are free and the public is invited.

Directed by Lauren Ringwall, the ensemble will be accompanied by organist Joy Hayner, with soloists Andrea Price (soprano) and Jonathan Pilkington (tenor), and the Piedmont Brass and Handbell Choir.

The Chorale will be joined by the South Forsyth High School Choir, directed by Kirk Grizzle.

The Chorale, which is comprised of singers from the college and across northeast Georgia, will perform works by Wilberg, Berg, Shaw and others, as well as traditional Christmas carols.

Lectors for the program will include Ashley Cleere, Timothy Lytle, Polly Astin, Julie Palmour, Don Gnecco, Barbara Brown Taylor, Jennifer Betz, Kathy Blandin, Robert Glass and Curtis Bradford.

distinctly modern sensibility.

Indeed, it’s their attunement to this rhythm that makes von Grey’s songs at once so personal and so universal.

Show time starts at 8 p.m. Friday Dec. 7, in the Sautee Nacoochee Center Theatre. Tickets are $22; $16 for members of SNCA. Tickets are $8 for children 12 and younger.

For tickets and more information, call 706-878-3300 or visit www.snca. org.

Ga. Children’s Chorus to perform holiday concert From staff reports Georgia Children’s Chorus of the Hugh Hodgson School of Music at the University of Georgia will present its 15th annual holiday concert “Shouting from the Mountain Top! Peace, Hope, Love, Joy!” on at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, at the Performing Arts Center in Athens.

Tickets are $10, available through the GCC office at 706542-8711 or the box office at 706-542-4400.

The 100-voice children’s chorus is in-residence at the Hodgson School. Its singers are ages 8 through 18 from across Northeast Georgia.

The diverse musical styles of the singers will be directed by Carol Reeves and accompanied by Erica McClellan.

Musical selections will include “Go, Tell it on the Mountain,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “Silent Night,” “We Will Sing For Joy” and an audience singalong of traditional carols.

For for more information about the Chorus, contact gcc@ uga.edu or visit georgiachildrenschorus.org.

Find more at gainesvilletimes.com/getout.

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concert calendar

go o music

This week

Holiday Jam, Helen. 5-7 p.m. Dec. 6 and Dec. 13.

Helen Arts and Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee St., Helen. All instruments and all ages are welcome. $8 per person, $12 for two. 706-878-3933, www. helenarts.org or info@helenarts.org Service of Lessons & Carols, Demorest. 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 7-8. Piedmont College Chapel, 165 Central Ave., Demorest. Piedmont Chorale, Brass, Sewell organ and guest performers. Free. www.piedmont. edu Judy Linn, Dahlonega. 8-10:30 p.m. Dec. 7. The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. Free.

706-864-3982, www.thecrimsonmoon.com.

Traditional Jam Session, Dahlonega. 1-4 p.m. Dec. 8.

The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega.

Free. 706-864-3982, www.thecrimsonmoon.com.

Community Christmas Concert, Suwanee. 7 p.m. Dec. 8-9 and 16. Dec. 8 and 9 concerts will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Church, 4833 Suwanee Dam Road, Suwanee. Dec. 16 at the LDS multipurpose building, 1150 Cole Drive, Suwanee. 404-375-7882, visit www.sugarhillldschoir. org.

Diane Durrett’s Georgia Christmas, Dahlonega. 8-10:30 p.m. Dec. 8. The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $12 in advance, $14 day of show. 706864-3982, www. thecrimsonmoon.com.

Ralph Roddenbery and Friends, Clarkesville. 8 p.m.

Dec. 8. 706-754-3541.

Advent Lessons & Carols: An Anglican Tradition, Gainesville. 5 p.m. Dec. 9. Grace Episcopal Church, Gainesville. Free. 770-536-0126, dbrown@ gracechurchgainesville.org.

North Georgia Barber Shop Singers, Cumming.

8 p.m. Dec. 11. Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. $15. 770-781-9178, www. playhousecumming.com

Upcoming

Amy Ray’s Project South Benefit, “Solstar” opens, Dahlonega. Dec. 13-14. Crimson Moon, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. 706-864-3982.

Sounds Of Sawnee Christmas Concert, Cumming.

8 p.m. Dec. 13. Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. $15. 770-781-9178, www. playhousecumming.com

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get out

• gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Thursday, December 6, 2012

On December 15, Brenau University officially begins its lease of the Georgia Mountains Center, which will continue to provide great facilities for community events, meetings and programs. And, Brenau offers other accommodations for a variety of activities on the historic campus, including Pearce Auditorium, Hosch Theatre, the Burd Center for Performing Arts and Brenau Galleries. www.brenau.edu

Call 770-531-3122 to book your event or get more information. www.georgiamountainscenter.com