360 10-4-12 by Adams MultiMedia

The perfectly written musical

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Skagit Valley Herald Thursday October 4, 2012

James Bond at 50

This Weekend

Reviews

Agent 007 has come a long way since his debut in “Dr. No” in 1962

Enjoy German beer, music and food? Anacortes should be your destination

Music: Diana Krall, Ricky Skaggs Video Games: “FIFA Soccer 13”

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Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E2 - Thursday, October 4, 2012

NEW ON DVD THIS WEEK “People Like Us”: Chris Pine plays a man who must deal with a relative he didn’t know existed. The film is an emotional roller coaster that stays on track through a tangle of huge highs and dramatic lows because of standout performances from Pine and Elizabeth Banks. Had either actor’s work wobbled in the least, the ride would have come to a crashing halt. But their nearly flawless work is moving and powerful. This is by far the best work Banks has done, and it establishes her credentials for tough dramatic roles. It takes an accomplished actor to show toughness and weakness without making the character seem wishy-washy. Banks does this with power. “Dark Shadows”: A vampire (Johnny Depp) wakes up to the weird world of the 1970s. Tim Burton’s big-screen adaptation of the 1960s TV daytime drama has a vampire, witch and werewolf, but the film feels more like a Jekyll and Hyde production. Burton’s created an odd structure. It’s the patch of silliness in the middle that takes such a sharp turn that it makes the movie feel like two different stories sharing the same cinematic body. The film’s not a total loss. The huge Gothic sets are amazing and Michelle Pfeiffer turns in a solid performance as the matriarch Elizabeth Collins Stoddard. Depp’s found another quirky character to embrace. And the film features some great music from the ’70s, including “Nights in White Satin” by The Moody Blues. “Hart of Dixie: The Complete First Season”: Rachel Bilson plays a doctor who ends up in a small community. “90210: The Fourth Season”: Lives and loves of those who live in the famous ZIP code continue. “General Education”: Coming-of-age comedy about a senior forced to attend summer school. “Transformers Rescue Bots: Roll to the Rescue”: Includes five episodes, bonus content and coloring sheets. “How I Met Your Mother: Season Seven”: CBS comedy starring Neil Patrick Harris. “Nikita: The Complete Second Season”: Maggie Q stars. “Breast Cancer: The Path of Wellness & Healing”: Look at diagnosis and treatment options. “Cinderella”: The animated classic is being released on Blu-ray. “Funkytown”: Patrick Huard stars in this look back to 1976. “The Hole”: Director Joe Dante

YOUR ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION GUIDE TO WHAT’S GOING ON IN SKAGIT COUNTY AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

Upcoming movie releases Following is a partial schedule of

coming movies on DVD. Release dates are subject to change: OCT. 9 The Raven - Fox

This Weekend / Page 5

OCT. 16 Moonrise Kingdom - Universal That’s My Boy - Sony OCT. 23 Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter - Fox Seeking a Friend for the End - Universal OCT. 30 The Campaign - Warner NOV. 6 Arthur Christmas - Sony Javier Bardem 3-Film Collection Lionsgate NOV. 13 Brave - Disney Savages - Universal The Watch - Fox NOV. 30 Men in Black 3 - Sony

Enjoy Oktoberfest this weekend in Anacortes

Inside

SUBMISSIONS E-mail features@skagitpublishing.com vrichardson@skagitpublishing. com (recreation items)

n McClatchy-Tribune News Service

explores fears and secrets buried deep within the human mind. “Iron Sky”: Nazis build secret fortress on the dark side of the moon. “The Six Million Dollar Man: Season Two”: Lee Majors stars. “Orangutan Diaries”: Team of veterinarians rescue orangutans. “Kingdom: Season One”: Stephen Fry stars. “Note to Self”: A look at one young man’s coming into adulthood. “Happy Endings: The Complete Second Season”: Elisha Cuthbert stars in the buddy comedy. “Tom & Jerry: Robin Hood & His Merry Mouse”: Animated cat, mouse battle in this new feature film. “Bonanza: The Official Fourth Season”: Dan Blocker stars. “Whittle — The Jet Pioneer”: Chronicles Sir Frank Whittle’s efforts to invent the turbojet engine. “Vexed, Series 1”: Two mismatched detectives bicker through London’s toughest cases. “Drinking Made Easy: Season Two”: Zane Lamprey visits 23 cities in search of the most unique beers, wines and cocktails. n Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee

Phone 360-416-2135 Hand-deliver 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274

Music, Game Reviews..................6-7 Get Involved.................................8-9 On Stage........................................ 10 Tuning Up..................................... 11 Travel........................................12-13 Hot Tickets.................................... 14 Roger Ebert.................................... 16 At the Lincoln Theatre.................. 17 Movie Listings............................... 17 Out & About.............................18-19 ON THE COVER Greg Stone plays Henry Higgins and Marza Warzinksi is Eliza Doolittle in Lyric Light Opera’s production of “My Fair Lady,” which opens Saturday at McIntyre Hall. Craig Parrish / Skagit Valley Herald

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? w For arts and entertainment, contact Features Editor Craig Parrish at 360-416-2135 or features@skagitpublishing.com w For recreation, contact staff writer Vince Richardson at 360-416-2181 or vrichardson@ skagitpublishing.com TO ADVERTISE 360-424-3251

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, October 4, 2012 - E3

ON STAGE

Craig Parrish / Skagit Valley Herald

The Lyric Light Opera cast of “My Fair Lady,” which opens Saturday at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon.

‘Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?’ LYRIC LIGHT OPERA STAGES ‘MY FAIR LADY’

‘My Fair Lady’ When: 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 6, 13, 20; 2 p.m. Sundays, Oct. 7, 14, 21 Where: McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. Tickets: $19$45, discounts available for ages 62 and older or 12 and younger. 360-416-7727 or www.mcintyrehall. org. More information: www.lyriclight opera.org

of George Bernard Shaw’s play “Pygmalion,” in which a Cockney English flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, is interested MOUNT VERNON — One of in becoming a proper English lady. the many challenges facing a local or Toward that end, Eliza takes speech regional theater company is taking an lessons from Henry Higgins, a phonetiiconic production and putting its own cist who believes society separates its stamp on it. social classes based on a person’s abilLyric Light Opera intends to do just ity — or inability — to speak properly. that. Eliza and Henry make progress, but The play is “My Fair Lady,” which they’re not exactly each other’s biggest will begin a six-show run Saturday at admirer. McIntyre Hall on the Skagit Valley “My Fair Lady” is rife with musicalCollege campus. It’s safe to say it’s as theater classics: “Wouldn’t It Be Lovfamiliar to audiences as any musical in erly?”, “I’ve Grown Accustomed to American theater history. Her Face,” “Get Me to the Church on Much of that familiarity is due to the Time” and “The Rain In Spain.” immediate success of the original proThe role of Henry Higgins earned duction, which opened in New York in Rex Harrison numerous awards, 1956. “My Fair Lady” is an adaptation including a Tony Award for Best PerBy CRAIG PARRISH Entertainment/Lifestyles editor

formance by a Leading Actor in a Musical and an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1964. Playing Eliza Doolittle propelled Julie Andrews to stardom, as she won a Tony for her work in 1957 as well. In the 1964 film version (for which Harrison won his Oscar), Audrey Hepburn was cast as Eliza, but Andrews won the Academy Award that year for “Mary Poppins” while “My Fair Lady” won the Best Picture Oscar. Why take on a play so potentially daunting? Several reasons, said director Brenda Mueller. “‘My Fair Lady’ is such a perfectly written musical, that in some ways is easy to put on the stage,” Mueller said. “It’s very succinctly, compactly and well written, the music is so well writ-

ten. And, because I had Greg Stone — a Broadway actor — coming into it, that I knew would be perfect for Henry Higgins.” Mueller noted that Lyric Light Opera received a big boost from Utah Festival Opera, which just finished its own run of “My Fair Lady,” using the company’s sets, hats, costumes and more. “So the ‘spectacle’ factor was there, and I knew we would have that,” Mueller said. “I knew we would have the actors, which we do. This is our strongest cast ever, from top to bottom. So ‘My Fair Lady’ was perfect for this time.” n Craig Parrish can be reached at 360-416-2135 or cparrish@skagit publishing.com.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E4 - Thursday, October 4, 2012

MOVIES

t was a meeting of the two most famous British people on the planet: Queen Elizabeth II turned to her tuxedo-wearing guest and said, “Good evening, Mr. Bond.” The pairing of these icons, the English monarch and the king of spies — in a film for the opening ceremony of the London Olympics — was a thrilling moment. It scarcely mattered that one of them was fictional. Agent 007 is real to millions of moviegoers, and once again they will flock to see Bond battle for queen and country when his 23rd official screen adventure, “Skyfall,” opens this fall. He’s come a long way in the 50 years since the release — on Oct. 5, 1962 — of a modestly budgeted spy movie called “Dr. No.” It introduced a dapper but deadly secret agent who wore Savile Row suits, drove an Aston Martin, liked his martinis shaken, not stirred, and announced himself as “Bond, James Bond.” What’s the secret of his survival? Familiarity, says Roger Moore, who played Bond in seven films, more than any other actor. “It’s sort of like a bedtime story: As long as you don’t go too far away from the original, the child is happy,” Moore said. “The audience gets what it’s expecting: beautiful girls, actions, gadgets — there’s a formula.” That fiendishly successful formula had modest beginnings. Two upstart producers, Canadian Harry Saltzman and American Albert “Cubby” Broccoli, acquired the rights to a series of novels by Ian Fleming, a former World War II intelligence officer who had created 007 as sort of a fantasy alter-ego. Saltzman and Broccoli had a budget of just $1 million, but through a blend of luck and design assembled an amazing team of on- and offscreen talent.

United Artists and Danjaq, LLC via AP

Roger Moore battles Richard Kiel in 1977’s “The Spy Who Loved Me.”

Columbia Pictures via AP

Daniel Craig in “Skyfall,” out this fall.

United Artists and Danjaq, LLC via AP

Sean Connery and Daniela Bianchi in 1963’s “From Russia With Love.”

No midlife crisis for 007 as Bond films turn 50 Story by JILL LAWLESS / Associated Press

Sean Connery, a relatively unknown Scottish actor and former bodybuilder, was cast as Bond against the wishes of studio United Artists, which wanted an established star such as Cary Grant. “Everything or Nothing,” a new documentary about the Bond films, says the final seal of approval came from Cubby Broccoli’s wife. “Is he sexy?” Broccoli asked her. Connery got the part. Behind the scenes were artists like John Barry, composer of Bond’s pulsequickening theme music; Maurice Binder, who created the famous gun-barrel title sequence; and designer Ken Adam, a German-born former RAF fighter pilot whose futuristic sets gave the films their look of modernist cool. In the documentary, Adam recalls feeling “crazy with courage” in those early days. Others remember the same devil-may-care atmosphere. “It was barnstorming

days,” said David M. Kay, whose company provided aircraft for filming and stunts on the early Bond films. “We didn’t have health and safety as we have now. Broccoli was an absolute cavalier and demanded things that were well-nigh impossible,” Kay recalled. It was also enormous fun, he said — “Men playing with boys’ toys.” That sense of playfulness spilled over to the screen. “Dr. No” arrived in movie theaters with perfect timing, as Britain swapped postwar austerity for growing prosperity. Bond’s world of cars, casinos and caviar was sexy, luxurious and colorful. Instead of a gray, shadowy figure, here was spy as glamorous jetsetter. The films turned Cold War anxiety into a thrill-ride from which the good guy always emerged triumphant. “There had been nothing like it before,” said Graham Rye, editor of 007 maga-

zine, who remembers being blown away by the film as an 11-year-old. “A lot of British films at the time were austere, black-and-white, kitchen-sink dramas. When ‘Dr. No’ exploded onto the screen, it had a pretty visceral effect on everybody.” Since then, Bond has survived showdowns with enemies from uber-villain Ernst Blofeld to steel-toothed assassin Jaws. Even more impressively, he has weathered the social revolution of the 1960s, financial woes and lawsuits, multiple changes of lead actor, the end of the Cold War and the dawn of the War on Terror. His survival is the result of chemistry, tenacity and luck. “Dr. No” received mixed reviews — some positive, others dismissive. “Pure, escapist bunk,” sniffed Bosley Crowther of the New York Times. But audiences responded, and “From Russia With Love,” released the next

year, was also a hit. By 1964’s “Goldfinger,” Bond was a phenomenon. From the start, success was enhanced by clever marketing. We may think of product placement and merchandising as recent strategies — Daniel Craig’s Bond diverges from his martini habit to drink Heineken — but it was part of the package starting with the books, in which Bond’s watch is a Rolex, his shampoo Pinaud Elixir. In the ’60s, Bond fans could wear 007 deodorant and aftershave or sport James Bond swimming trunks, complete with logo. Connery’s Bond drank Smirnoff vodka, while the villain in “Goldfinger” played golf with Slazenger balls. More than movies, these were experiences in which key elements were established, expected and anticipated. The locations that spanned the globe and headed into outer space; the grav-

ity-defying stunt sequences; the rocket belts, car-submarines and other gadgets; the megalomaniacal villains and their sadistic henchmen — all quickly became part of the Bond brand. So did the “Bond girls,” characters who are victims or villains but always fatefully — and often fatally — attracted to 007. Bond’s scantily clad female companions have long provided ammunition for critics, who accuse the films of sexism, though others argue that the films offer eye-candy for everyone. Anticipating new tweaks on the familiar elements became part of the films’ appeal, rendering them both instantly recognizable and eminently spoofable, as Mike Myers’ pitch-perfect Austin Powers movies proved. The films’ producers at EON Productions — today run by Cubby Broccoli’s daughter and stepson, Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson — have become expert at honing the formula. Like its hero, the series has had many near-death experiences. Connery quit acrimoniously after six films. There was a long-running legal battle with screenwriter Kevin McClory over rights to the “Thunderball” script. The result was the unofficial Bond film “Never Say Never Again,” which saw 52-yearold Connery return after a decade away from the role. Former model George Lazenby lasted just a single film — “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” from 1969, a dark-hued tale that ranks among many fans’ favorites. Moore took Bond in a lighter direction during the 1970s. Audiences didn’t warm to Timothy Dalton’s tougher, meaner 1980s Bond, but Pierce Brosnan’s suave superagent — circling the globe in ever more futuristic vehicles, including an invisible car— fit with the optimistic post-Cold War era.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, October 4, 2012 - E5

THIS WEEKENDin the area ANACORTES OKTOBERFEST: BIER ON THE PIER

ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR, BAZAAR Vasa Lodge will present its Fall Arts & Crafts Fair and Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at 1805 Cleveland St., Mount Vernon. Choose from a variety of Scandinavian crafts and gift items and enjoy pea soup, Swedish rye bread and Scandinavian goodies in the Kaffe Stugan (coffee house). Free admission. 360-336-3056

HISTORY OF JAZZ, PART 2: 1960S & ’70S 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St., Anacortes. Enjoy a discussion of the period, including the stylistic transitions and a live jazz performance with the Savage Jazz Trio, Vince Fejeran and Deanne Savage. Free.

“A NIGHT OF STARS AND DREAMS” Celebrate the RiverBelle Dinner Theatre’s fifth anniversary with a special musical variety show at 7 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 5, 12 and 19, at the Old Town Grainery, 100 E. Montgomery, Mount Vernon. Up to 50 of the theater’s most popular “stars” from the last five years will present an evening of magic, dance, music, cabaret and more. $40 dinner and show; $30 dessert buffet and show, $20 show only.

360-293-1910, ext. 21, or library. cityofanacortes.org

FESTIVAL OF FAMILY FARMS

Reservations required: 360-3363012 or www.riverbelledinner theatre.com.

Enjoy German food, music, beer and more from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday and noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5-6, at the old Port of Anacortes Warehouse building, First and Commercial in downtown Anacortes. The event will feature 30 breweries, a costume contest, live music, German food and more. For ages 21 and older. $20 in advance, $25 at the door, includes six tasting tickets and festival glass. Two-day pass: $35 advance, $45 at the door, includes 12 tasting tickets and festival glass. Free admission for designated drivers. 360-293-7911 or www.anacortes.org/oktoberfest

The 14th annual event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 6-7, at more than a dozen locations around Skagit Valley. Enjoy farm and garden tours, fresh produce, educational exhibits and demonstrations, harvest markets, kids’ activities, corn and hay mazes, farm animals, pumpkin patches, a photo contest and more. Free admission and parking. 360-421-4729 or www.farmtour. com

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E6 - Thursday, October 4, 2012

REVIEWS MUSIC CDS Compiled from news services

Diana Krall

“Glad Rag Doll”

pop songs and complex singer-songwriter themes. On individual albums, he has concentrated on a specific premise. However, on “Music To My Ears,” he and his skilled Kentucky Thunder band have decided to incorporate all of his interests at once. It makes for an album of surprises, with the variety of styles connected by Skaggs’ expressive tenor and forceful mandolin playing. There’s hard-charging, old-school bluegrass (a cover of the Stanley Brothers’ “Loving You Too Well”); tributes to Bill Monroe (a fantastic update of “Blue Night”) and Doc Watson (a romping band version of “Tennessee Stud”); contemporary gospel (“Music To My Ears”); singersongwriter musings (a cover of the Bee Gees’ wholly relevant “Soldier’s Son”); and harmony-rich pop (“You Are Something Else”). All together it shows that Skaggs, at age 58, continues to create powerful music that doesn’t rest on laurels or reputation. CHECK OUT THIS TRACK: While Skaggs has often flashed joy and humor over his career, he has never recorded a novelty song quite as goofy — or fun — as “You Can’t Hurt Ham.” In a string-band context, he sets up various scenarios where folks, especially musicians, have relied on the durable quality of cured pork.

timed to commemorate what would have been the folk legend’s 100th birthday. The more esoteric release of the two, “Pete Remembers Woody” is still fascinating and engaging as Seeger offers recollections of Guthrie, interspersed with new versions of his songs performed by Seeger and others. On “A More Perfect Union,” Seeger collaborates with longtime friend and fellow singer-songwriter Lorre Wyatt. But Seeger is the star of the disc, even when a children’s choir and the celebrity guest stars step to the mic. While the disc could have used some tasteful editing, maybe cutting down to 12 tracks instead of 16, it’s a minor quibble for someone of Seeger’s stature. At this point, let the guy release what he wants. CHECK OUT THIS TRACK: The opening track of “A More Perfect Union” called “God’s Counting on Me … God’s Counting on You” is just the latest in an unmatchable career of socially conscious songs that Seeger delivers with unparalleled conviction.

Diana Krall’s “Glad Rag Doll” instantly grabs your attention, and not just because of the provocative cover art featuring the lovely singer decked out in, well, not much. It’s the songs, and T Bone Burnett’s usual excellent production, that are the real draw here. There are no lilting orchestras or dreamy string quartets followers of Krall have come to expect. Sure, her signature piano is there, along with her smoky vocals, but it’s Marc Ribot’s guitar that establishes a ghostly, vaudevillian feel to the mostly jazz songs Krall covers. Everything comes together to serve the Prohibition-era theme of the record perfectly. Even a song written in the 1950s — Doc Pomus’ “Lonely Avenue” — seems right at home. n Scott Bauer, Associated Press Throw in a tasteful amount of Mellotron, ukulele, banjo and bass and “Glad Rag Doll” rocks. It rolls. It swings. It shuffles. It’s Yoko Ono, sexy, sly, intimate and exhilarating. Kim Gordon CHECK OUT THIS TRACK: “Let it Rain,” and Thurston a modern take on the 1925 Gene Austin song, sounds both utterly modern and time- n Michael McCall, for The Associated Press Moore less. That’s something that’s not easy to pull “YOKOKIM off, but Krall does it in a way that seems THURSTON” effortless. n Scott Bauer, Associated Press

Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder “Music To My Ears”

Ricky Skaggs has barreled down an eclectic path since going independent at the turn of the century — after two decades as an award-winning contemporary country singer. In the last dozen years, he has shown off his skills as one of the most revered bluegrass and gospel artists of his generation, he’s honored influences with tributes and collaborative works, and he has challenged himself with projects that explore adult

Pete Seeger

“A More Perfect Union” “Pete Remembers Woody” At 93, no one expects anything new from Pete Seeger, but that’s not stopping the folk music icon from putting out two new releases simultaneously. Seeger gets some help on “A More Perfect Union” from the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Tom Morello, Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris and Dar Williams. And on the aptly titled “Pete Remembers Woody,” Seeger offers his own memories in spoken word of Woody Guthrie,

“YOKOKIMTHURSTON” is avantgarde by a trio who’s carved a career out of making avant-garde palatable to mainstream tastes. But this is art-show fare without melody. n Paul J. Weber, Associated Press

DJ Drama

“Quality Street Music”

DJ Drama has earned respect in the music industry for boosting numerous careers of rappers such as Lil Wayne, T.I. and Young Jeezy through his popular mixtape series, “Gangsta Grillz.” The success of the mixtapes helped ignite Drama’s popularity too: He is one of the few DJs in hip-hop to land a record deal, releasing his debut album, “Gangsta Grillz: The Album” in 2007. Now, Drama returns with his fourth offering “Quality Street Music,” a 15-track album filled mostly with hard-thumping, high-energy street anthem songs. The album features a cast of rappers and singers that includes Drake, Common, Wiz Khalifa, T-Pain and Llyod. Drama makes it all work with his uniquely assembled combination of artists meshed alongside solid production work. This is clear on “My Moment” featuring 2 There are Chainz, Meek Mill and Jeremih. no songs on One of the album’s highlights is the “YOKOKIMTHURSTON.” This is a Cardiak-produced “Never Die,” featuring practical heads-up before firing up this Jadakiss, Cee Lo Green, Nipsey Hussle mess of a collaboration between Yoko and Young Jeezy. With Cee Lo singing Ono and Sonic Youth’s Kim Gordon and chorus, each of the rappers talks about Thurston Moore. how they were able to survive their own There are tracks — six of them, and gritty streets. none shorter than seven minutes. There Other standout songs are the V12: The are chants and groans and poetry and Hitman-produced tracks “Clouds” feaOno making witchy moans that are about turing Rick Ross, Miguel, Pusha T and as spooky as one of those $5 haunted Curren$y, and “Same ‘Ol Story,” with Kid houses that spring up every Halloween. Ink, Schoolboy Q, Corey Gunz and ChildUnderneath that is familiar Sonic Youth ish Gambino. territory: scraping and scratchy guitars, There are some downfalls here, but tinny plinks and plucks, pleasing noise. overall Drama delivers another respectBut there’s never a satisfying end waitable album. He continues to show he’s ing around the corner as Gordon and one of hip-hop’s top curators, creating a Moore mostly stay in the backseat, having musical platform for artists so they can all recorded this project a few months before flourish together. announcing their split last year that’s put n Jonathan Landrum Jr., Associated Press the future of Sonic Youth in doubt.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, October 4, 2012 - E7

REVIEWS VIDEO GAMES Chris Campbell, Scripps Howard News Service

‘FIFA Soccer 13’ Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC, Wii, 3DS and Vita Genre: Sports Publisher: EA Sports ESRB Rating: E, for Everyone Grade: 4 stars (out of 5)

‘Resident Evil 6’

Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC Genre: Action Publisher: Capcom ESRB Rating: M, for Mature Grade: 2 stars

Since the dawn of this column, I’ve talked about how my buddy Luke welcomes the arrival of another “Resident Evil” You can pick from whichever La Liga, game like some people celebrate a child’s English Premier League or Major League birth. I was a hard-core Nintendo guy until Soccer squad you fancy, but the Tottenhe showed me the famous “dogs jumping ham Hotspurs will always be my pride and through the window” scene. I knew then joy in both real life and in “FIFA Soccer that gaming was way more awesome than 13,” the latest entry in EA Sports’ long just Mario collecting coins. domination of soccer video games. In this release, all the pieces of the puzBeyond some updates to the menu sys- zle are present to create a thrilling “Resitem and few gameplay tweaks, not much dent Evil” adventure, but instead of nicely appears different from last year’s edition, interlocking, they are jammed together, but when you are killing it on a yearly creating a game that lacks cohesion. Simply basis like EA is, I guess the mark of sucput, everything takes too long in this game. cess becomes how close to perfection one I’ve never complained about a game crecan get. ating a cinematic atmosphere, and “RE6” Most of the game’s modes return does this amazingly well, but the action unchanged from last year, which is accept- gets interrupted by cutscenes way too able but a tad disappointing, seeing that often. I’m not a huge fan of quick-time butnot one of them was 100 percent. Gamton sequences, and I can’t recall a recent ers will see a different pitch, where the game that more times than not rips the improved physics engine from “FIFA Soc- outcome from your hands and places it in cer 12” creates the most natural-flowing the controls of a quick-time sequence. game of soccer you’ll likely ever play “RE6” strings together long stretches of (that is, until next year’s release, I supcutscenes, quick-time events and passive pose). Granted, this makes scoring lots of action that leaves you rarely feeling like amazing-looking goals rather easy, which you are playing the game so much as just is fine when playing against friends, but watching it all pass by. And the game, sadly, in serious online leagues creates havoc doesn’t invoke the moments of true “fight and veers awfully close to arcade gaming or flight” terror that previous editions did. instead of simulation. Longtime fans will have reason to dive “Pro Evolution Soccer” continues to headfirst into the gory muck to see how it push forward and challenge for the top unfolds, but this marks the second straight place in soccer gaming, but for another “RE” title (“Operation Raccoon City” year “FIFA” remains the titleholder and a being the other) that tests fans’ patience must-own for soccer fans. with the franchise.

Video game releases The following games are among those scheduled for release this week, according to Gamestop.com: n Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone (3DS, rated E10+) n Crosswords PLUS (3DS, rated E) n Resident Evil 6 (Xbox 360 and PS3, rated M)

n Resident Evil 6 Archives (Xbox 360, rated M) n Resident Evil 6 Anthology (PS3, rated M) n NBA 2K13 (Xbox 360, PS3, Wii and PSP, rated E) n Carrier Command: Gaea Mission (Xbox 360, rated M) n Command & Conquer: The Ultimate Collection (PC, rated T) n Chipmunks Play & Watch (DS, rated E) n Transformers Play & Watch (DS, rated T)

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

E8 - Thursday, October 4, 2012

GET INVOLVED ART

ART CLASSES

8700 271st St. NW, Stanwood. To register, stop by FAMILY ART DAYS RESOURCES FOR ARTthe Stanwood Camano Art AT MoNA: Skagit Artists ISTS: Artist Jean Behnke Guild’s cooperative galwill discuss grants, training Together and the Museum lery from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. of Northwest Art offer and other resources availTuesday through Saturday. Family Art Days each able to Washington artists 360-629-2787 or www.stanthrough Artist Trust at 3:30 month at MoNA, 121 S. woodcamanoarts.com. First St., La Conner. Sesp.m. Thursday, Oct. 11, at Life Drawing: 11 a.m. to sions are open to all ages Earthbox Inn & Spa, 410 2 p.m. Mondays. Draw from and skill levels and include Spring St., Friday Harbor. a live model. Poses are A reception will follow the guided walk-throughs of mixed, gesture, short and MoNA exhibitions. Limited presentation. RSVP: jbehnlong poses. Sessions are to 15 participants per seske@rockisland.com. facilitated by experienced sion. To register: 360-466professional artists. No 4446, ext. 108, or FAD@ HELP CREATE PUBLIC instruction provided. $12 ART: Allied Arts of What- museumofnwart.org. Infor- per drop-in session or $10 a mation: www.museumofcom County will host the week when you sign up for nwart.org. Workshops are Alley Arts — “Elements” a month at a time. Mural Project prior to and free with museum admisIntroductory Glassblowsion. Admission: $8 adults, during the Downtown Art ing Session: Choose a day $5 seniors, $3 students, free Walk from 6 to 9 p.m. Friand time, weekdays from 4 for members and ages 11 day, Oct. 5, in the Federal to 6 p.m. or 6 to 8 p.m., at Building parking lot, across and younger. Glass Quest Studio near Next up: the street from Allied Arts, Stanwood. Create your Exploring the Circle: 11 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bella.m. to 1 p.m. or 2 to 4 p.m. own blown glass float or ingham. Four artists will ornament. $60. lead the community in the Saturday, Oct. 20. Discover Fused Glass Jewelry: the possibilities of the creation of four murals to 2 to 4 p.m. or 6 to 8 p.m circular form using waterbe installed in the newly Thursday, Oct. 18. Learn color, collage and pastel. repaved alley behind Allied glassworking techniques, Make a Star Book and Arts, between Rail Road including designing, cutting Ornament: 11 a.m. to 1 and Cornwall Ave. Free. and grinding glass, as you p.m. or 2 to 4 p.m. SaturAnyone can participate. make a fused glass penday, Nov. 17. Use collage 360-676-8548 or www. techniques to create unique dant. No experience necesalliedarts.org. sary. $35 plus $10 materials papers, then turn them into a one-of-a-kind book, fee. SCRAPBOOKING SWAP Seasonal Folk Art Paintwhich doubles as a holiday MEET & SALE: Get great ing: 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Satdecoration. prices on scrapbooking urday, Oct. 20. This “make supplies, tools, albums, and take” class will feature PASTELS: Award-winstickers and more from 9 rotating seasonal projects. ning artist Steve Hill will a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. present a four-day work$30-$50 depending on proj6, at the Burlington Parks ect selected. Preregistration shop from noon to 5 p.m. and Recreation Center, 900 Saturdays and Sundays, required. E. Fairhaven Ave., Burling- Oct. 20-21 and 27-28, at ton. Have extra supplies to Dakota Art Center, 17873 PAPER PLAYSHOPS: sell? Register by today to Join Kari Bishay to get creHighway 536, Mount Verrent a space for $25. Free non. Beginning to interme- ative and “play with stuff” admission. 360-755-9649 diate students will learn to at the Anacortes Center for or visit http://recreation. Happiness, 619 Commeruse pastels on a variety of ci.burlington.wa.us. cial Ave., Anacortes. Workpaper surfaces. The class shops are held from 2 to 4 will also include an introDRAWING THE FIGURE: duction to outdoor painting p.m. Sundays. All materials Faye Castle will offer a are provided. $15 each, $40 on location or “plein air” charcoal drawing demonfor all three. Preregistrapainting. $200. 888-345stration at the Artists of tion required: 360-464-2229 0067, ext. 5, or www.dakoSouth Whidbey meeting at taartcenter.com. or www.anacortescenterfor happiness.org. 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, Next up: in the Brookhaven meetART CLASSES: Sign up Inspirational prayer ing room in Langley. ASW for a variety of art classes welcomes painters in all at A Guilded Gallery (for- flags: Oct. 14. Combine mediums. 360-221-2353. merly Gallery by the Bay), beautiful papers, ribbons

and heartfelt words of gratitude to create unique prayer flag garlands to adorn your home. Little Books: Nov. 18. Create and embellish three little books: a perfect little photo album, a notebook made with recycled papers and a third one that opens up to form a star.

each entry, $6 for WIWA members. Membership: $50, $10 students. For information, call 360-331-2038, email spiritofwriting@whidbey.com or visit www.nila. edu/wiwa_contests.htm.

RECREATION

SALMON DERBY: The Ray Reep Salmon Derby will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Edgewater Park, 600 Behrens Millet Road, Mount Vernon. First-, second- and third-place DANCE prizes for silver salmon SCOTTISH DANCING: will be awarded, along with Bellingham Scottish Coun- opportunities to win raffle try Dancers meet from 7 items. Tickets: $15, at the ART AT THE Y: CARto 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Mount Vernon Parks and TOONING: 9 to 10:30 a.m. the Fairhaven Library audiSaturdays, Oct. 6-27, Skagit torium (upstairs), 1117 12th Recreation office, 1717 S. Valley Family YMCA, 215 St., Bellingham. Wear com- 13th St., Mount Vernon, and Holiday Sports, 895 Nevitt E. Fulton St., Mount Verfortable clothes and leathnon. Cartoonist Max Elam er-soled shoes. For informa- Road, Burlington. 360-3366215. will offer step-by-step tion, call Mary Anderson at instruction on how to draw 360-933-1779 or visit www. LITTLE MOUNTAIN: popular characters from bellinghamscd.org. Mount Vernon Parks and video games, cartoons and Recreation is offering comic books. $35 members, RHYTHM/DANCE Exploration Little Moun$50 program members. 360- CLASSES: Mount Vernon tain for ages 8 to 12 from 336-9622 or www.skagit Parks and Recreation will 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, ymca.org. offer Creative Rhythm Oct. 13, at Little Mountain and Movement for ages Park, 300 Little Mountain 4 to 6 from 4 to 4:50 p.m. CONTESTS Road, Mount Vernon. CreMondays, Oct. 22-Nov. 12, SPIRIT OF WRITING ate your own letterboxing and Beginning Ballet and CONTEST: The Whidbey stamp, decorate a notebook Tap for ages 7 to 9 from Island Writers Associaand get out on the trails tion and Sno-Isle Libraries 5 to 6 p.m. Mondays, Oct. to find hidden letterboxes. 22-Nov. 12. Tap shoes are are sponsoring a writing Play Nature Bingo on the not required. $40-$42. Pre- way and enjoy beautiful contest open to residents registration required: 360of Whidbey Island and to trails and viewpoints. Bring 336-6215. WIWA members. Writa sack lunch and wear ers ages 18 and older can weather-appropriate clothCONTRA DANCE: 7 to submit entries in several ing. $14-16. Preregistration 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, required. 360-336-6215. categories: poetry, short Depot Arts Center, 611 R fiction, nonfiction/essay, Ave., Anacortes. Learn the memoir, and children’s/ BUDDY WALK: Registrafundamentals of contra young adult literature. All tion is due by Friday, Oct. 5, winners will receive a copy dance and practice dancing for the sixth annual Skagit of “Spirit of Writing 2012,” to live music. No partner County Buddy Walk, set for a literary magazine of win- needed. $8 at the door. 360- 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, ning works, and are invited 755-3969 or www.skagit Oct. 13, at Bakerview Park, contra.org. to participate in programs 3101 E. Fir St., Mount Verof readings in the Sno-Isle non. Walk begins at noon. MUSIC Libraries. The 1.25-mile annual walk The grand-prize winFREE MUSIC JAMS: promotes awareness and ner will receive tuition to Come and play or just acceptance for people with the 2013 Whidbey Island watch the fun at Cyndy’s Down syndrome. Enjoy a Writers Conference and Broiler, 27021 102nd Ave. barbecue lunch, live enterpublication in “SoundNW, Stanwood. Free for tainment, family-friendly ings Review,” the literary participants and spectators. activities and more. Registrajournal of the Northwest Teen Jam: 7 p.m. second tion: $8-$10 adult, $5 youth. Institute of Literary Arts. and fourth Tuesday each Advance registration includes All manuscripts will be month. T-shirt, lunch. Day of event: returned with judges’ comJam Night: 8 p.m. Thurs- first come, first served. For ments. Entry deadline: Oct. days. more information, call 360360-629-4800 or www. 13. Limit one entry per cat416-7570, ext. 401, or visit cyndysbroiler.com. egory. $12 reading fee for www.skagitp2p.org.

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Thursday, October 4, 2012 - E9

GET INVOLVED THEATER IMPROV CLASSES: Awaken the spontaneity within with free improv classes taught by Sheila Goldsmith of Improv Playworks. Registration required: 360-756-0756 or www.improvplayworks. com. Adults and teens: 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, Improv Playworks Studio, 302 W. Illinois St., Bellingham. Adults and teens: 7 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 30, Improv Playworks Studio, 302 W. Illinois St., Bellingham. THEATER CLASSES: Anacortes Community Theatre’s Class Act School for the Performing Arts is enrolling kids from preschool through 12th grade for fall classes on acting and theater arts. Classes are held at ACT, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. 360-2936829 or www.acttheatre. com/classact. The Magic Box: preschool-age children, 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays through Oct. 30. Students will take part in a variety of creative dramatic games designed to use their imagination, improve self-confidence and provide social interaction in an organized class setting. $50. Fun With Improv: sev-

HALLOWEEN IN THE AREA enth through 12th grade, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays, through Oct. 31. Students will learn some 15 improvisational games, helping them become more comfortable on stage, learn to think on their feet and improve their acting skills. The class will culminate in an improv performance for the public Nov. 2-3 on ACT’s Second Stage. $50.

WORKSHOPS KIDDIE CHEER CAMP: The Mount Vernon High School cheerleaders will host their annual Fall Cheer Camp for youths in grades K-8 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Oct. 9-11, in the high school cafeteria, 314 N. Ninth St. Campers will perform during halftime of the Bulldogs’ football game Friday, Oct. 12. $35, includes camp T-shirt. Proceeds support the MVHS cheer program. For information, contact Khalie Whitman, 360-428-6109, ext. 41252. LEGO CAMP: Sessions are offered from 4:30 to 6 p.m. or 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Oct. 2-25, at the Skagit Valley Family YMCA, 215 E. Fulton St., Mount Vernon. Using specialized LEGO® kits, YMCA staff

will teach lessons guaranteed to provide a creative, positive and fun learning experience. $50 members, $60 program members. 360-336-9622 or www. skagitymca.org. COMMUNITY QUILTING BEE: Join members of the Moonlight Quilters Guild from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at the Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher Studio, 250 Flora St., Bellingham. Get involved or just watch as quilters collaborate on a nature-themed quilt to hang in the Lightcatcher Studio. Learn about design and color as well as the process of drawing and cutting shapes from fabric. For ages 16 and older. Free with museum admission. $10, $8 student/senior/ military, $4.50 ages 5 and younger, free for members. 360-778-8930 or www. whatcommuseum.org. QUILTING FOR BEGINNERS: Learn how to hand quilt from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays at the Concrete Center, 45821 Railroad Ave., Concrete. Bring a flat edge thimble, roundneedle puller, small scissors and No. 9 go-betweens quilting needles. Tips and technique how-tos on the last Monday each month. 360-853-8400.

CONCRETE GHOST WALK: The sixth annual Concrete Ghost Walk starts at 6 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 6, 13, 20 and 27, at the Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St. You’ll hear about — and maybe even meet — some of the colorful characters from Concrete’s past, visit a number of “haunted” buildings and talk to the locals who’ll share their stories. For ages 13 and older only; minors must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight if desired. $10. Reservations required: 360-853-8784, 360-853-8767 or chamber@ concrete-wa.com.

ton. Kids can enjoy a hay bale maze, kiddie slide, skeleton graveyard picnic and more. Pumpkins, gourds, corn stalks, cider and apples available for purchase. Corn maze admission: $8 before 6 p.m., $9 after 6 p.m. Free for kids under 46 inches tall, day or night. 360-435-5616 or www.face book.com/biringers.black.crow.

PUMPKIN PATCH & CORN MAZE: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Oct. 31, Foster’s Produce & Corn Maze, 5818 Highway 530 NE, Arlington. Enjoy u-pick pumpkins, “Hidden Gnome” corn maze, animal barn, kids’ activities and more. Wagon rides and additional activiCORN MAZE, PUMPKIN PATCH: Birties available for additional fees. Bring inger’s Black Crow Pumpkins & Corn a flashlight and explore the corn maze Maze Farm is open from noon to 6 p.m. from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturdays. Free admisMondays through Thursdays, noon to 9 sion to the farm. Corn maze: $5.50, free p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays for ages 3 and younger. Night maze: and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays, through $8.50. 360-435-6516 or www.fosterscorn Oct. 31, at 2431 Highway 530 NE, Arling- maze.com.

Please recycle this newspaper Savour the golden autumn hues of October. Stroll the streets of Sidney, shop & save at the variety of boutiques and check out our seaside town’s collection of unique bookshops. Then unwind with an oceanfront dinner in Haro’s Restaurant + Bar.

BOOK NOW FROM:

169

* based on Single/Double Valid October 1-31, 2012. Subject to availability

Package includes: a discount card from participating Sidney shops, free parking and a $25 Haro’s dining credit.

For information call toll free 1 866 659 9445 9805 Seaport Place, Sidney BC www.sidneypier.com

Our 12th Annual Auction in support of compassion and dignity at the end of life. Saturday, October 13, 2012 - 5:00pm – 9:30pm Corporate Air Center, Skagit Regional Airport Tickets on sale now! Please call 360.814.5702 or visit our website at www.hospicenw.org

E10 Thursday, October 4, 2012

ON STAGE in the Skagit Valley and surrounding area October 4-11

TUNING UP Playing at area venues October 4-11

Thursday.4

THURSDAY.4

COMEDY

Montana Skies: 7 p.m., Blue Horse Gallery, 301 W. Holly St., Bellingham. 360-671-2305 or www.bluehorse gallery.com.

Comedy Night with Marc Price (Skippy from “Family Ties”): 7 p.m., Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete. $10. 360-941-0403 or www.concrete-theatre. com.

THEATER

“Legally Blonde: The Musical”: Seattle Musical Theatre, 7:30 p.m., Magnuson Park, 7120 62nd Ave. NE, Seattle. $35$40. 206-363-2809 or www.seattle musicaltheatre.org. “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or www.acttheatre.com. “Glorious”: Bellingham Theatre Guild, comedy, 7:30 p.m., 1600 H St., Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-733-1811 or www.belling hamtheatreguild.com.

Friday.5 DANCE/THEATER

“The Family Project”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $15. 360-510-4711 or www.kuntzandco.org.

THEATER

“Legally Blonde: The Musical”: Seattle Musical Theatre, 7:30 p.m., Magnuson Park, 7120 62nd Ave. NE, Seattle. $35-$40. 206-363-2809 or www.seattle musicaltheatre.org. “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest”: 8 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or www.acttheatre.com. “Glorious”: Bellingham Theatre Guild, comedy, 7:30 p.m., 1600 H St., Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-733-1811 or www.belling hamtheatreguild.com.

Thursday, October 4, 2012 E11

Skagit Valley Herald / goskagit.com

Swil Kanim (Native American storyteller, violin): 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

THURSDAY.11 COMEDY NIGHT 8 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. $10. 360-755-3956 or www.anacortes H2O.com.

DUANE GOAD

Saturday.6

Sunday.7

Tuesday.9

COMEDY

DANCE/THEATER

MUSIC

Skagit-Mount Vernon Kiwanis “Original Comedy Night”: Rodney Sherwood, Spanky the Laff Guru (aka Steven Kent McFarlin) and Susan Jones, 8 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. First St., Mount Vernon. $16. 360-336-8955 or www. lincolntheatre.org.

DANCE/THEATER

“The Family Project”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $15. 360-510-4711 or www.kuntzandco.org.

THEATER

“Legally Blonde: The Musical”: Seattle Musical Theatre, 7:30 p.m., Magnuson Park, 7120 62nd Ave. NE, Seattle. $35-$40. 206-363-2809 or www.seattle musicaltheatre.org. “My Fair Lady”: Lyric Light Opera, musical, 7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $19-$45, discounts available for ages 62 and older or 12 and younger. 360-416-7727 or www.mcintyrehall.org. “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest”: 8 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or www.acttheatre.com. “Glorious”: Bellingham Theatre Guild, comedy, 7:30 p.m., 1600 H St., Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-733-1811 or www.belling hamtheatreguild.com.

MICHELLE WESTFORD

“The Family Project”: Kuntz and Company, 5 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $15. 360-510-4711 or www.kuntz andco.org.

THEATER

“Legally Blonde: The Musical”: Seattle Musical Theatre, 2 p.m., Magnuson Park, 7120 62nd Ave. NE, Seattle. $35$40. 206-363-2809 or www.seattlemusical theatre.org. “My Fair Lady”: Lyric Light Opera, musical, 2 p.m., McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way, Mount Vernon. $19-$45, discounts available for ages 62 and older or 12 and younger. 360-416-7727 or www.mcintyrehall.org. “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest”: 2 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or www.acttheatre.com. “Glorious”: Bellingham Theatre Guild, comedy, 2 p.m., 1600 H St., Bellingham. $8-$12. 360-733-1811 or www.bellingham theatreguild.com.

VARIETY

Whatever’s Clever Variety Show: Music, comedy, hula-hooping, belly dancing and more, 8 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N State St., Bellingham. $7. 360-7781067.

Monday.8 No events submitted

JOE VESPAZIANI

Pajama Concert for Families with Young Children: Pam Sinnett and Helen and Richard Scholtz, 6:30 p.m., Roeder Home, 2600 Sunset Drive, Bellingham. $4-$10 suggested donation. Proceeds benefit the Roeder Home. 360-676-8915.

Wednesday.10

Brer Rabbit (blues, folk, roots): 7 p.m., Washington Sips, 608 First St., La Conner. No cover. 360-399-1037.

SATURDAY.6

THURSDAY.4

THE MARK DUFRESNE BAND 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/ Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000.

BRER RABBIT 7 p.m., Washington Sips, 608 First St., La Conner. No cover. 360-399-1037.

FRIDAY.5 Rock DeVille: 9 p.m. to midnight, Cyndy’s Broiler, 27021 102nd Ave NW, Stanwood. No cover. 360-629-4800 or www. cyndysbroiler.com.

5 Dollar Fine (contemporary country, classic rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. www.theskagit.com.

Nathaniel Talbot: 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Nick Vigarino (blues): 8 p.m., Big Rock Café & Grocery, 14779 Highway 9, Mount Vernon. 360-424-7872.

Youngblood Hawke: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $5-$7. 360-778-1067.

Tweety and the Tomcats (rock): 9 p.m., Portage Bay Bar & Lounge, Silver Reef Casino, 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale. No cover. 866-383-0777.

Black River Blues: 9 p.m. to midnight, Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-588-1720.

MUSIC

“About Families”: Flip Breskin, Kat Bula, Marie Eaton, Geof Morgan, Richard Scholtz and Laura Smith, 7:30 p.m., Roeder Home, 2600 Sunset Drive, Bellingham. $8-$15 suggested donation. 360676-8915.

Thursday.11 COMEDY

Comedy Night with Michelle Westford, Duane Goad and Joe Vespaziani: 8 p.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. $10. 360-755-3956 or www.anacortesH2O.com.

DANCE/THEATER

“The Family Project”: Kuntz and Company, 7:30 p.m., Firehouse Performing Arts Center, 1314 Harris Ave., Bellingham. $15. 360-510-4711 or www.kuntzandco.org.

THEATER

“One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest”: 7:30 p.m., Anacortes Community Theatre, 918 M Ave., Anacortes. $18. 360-293-6829 or www.acttheatre.com.

SATURDAY.6 Little Bill and the Blue Notes: 9 p.m. to midnight, Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-588-1720.

Jon Mutchler (piano): 6 to 9 p.m., Stars Restaurant at Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine. www.semiahmoo.com.

5 Dollar Fine (contemporary country, classic rock): 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Skagit Valley Casino Resort Winners Lounge, 5984 N. Darrk Lane, Bow. No cover. www.the skagit.com.

The Replayzmentz: 9 p.m., Packers Lounge at Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine. www.semiahmoo.com.

The Mark Dufresne Band (blues): 8 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. $10. 360-445-3000. Kultur Schock: 10 p.m., The Shakedown, 1212 N. State St., Bellingham. $7. 360-7781067.

SUNDAY.7 Joyful Noise, Barefeet (bluegrass): 1:30 p.m., Concrete Theatre, 45920 Main St., Concrete. $10. 360941-0403 or www. concrete-theatre. com.

Ken Pickard and Zydeco Explosion: 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., H2O, 314 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. 360-7553956 or www.anacortesH2O. com. Tweety and the Tomcats (rock): 9 p.m., Portage Bay Bar & Lounge, Silver Reef Casino, 4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale. No cover. 866-3830777.

TUESDAY.9 Gary B’s Church of the Blues (blues, classic rock): 6 to 10 p.m., Castle Tavern, 708 Metcalf St., SedroWoolley. 360-8552263.

Bluegrass and Country Jam: 1 to 5 p.m., Cascade Middle School, 201 N. Township St., Sedro-Woolley. Free. 360-856-1058 or 360-855-1564.

Ron Bailey, Al Kaatz: 5:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

“Jazz At The Center”: Western Washington University Faculty Jazz Collective, 7 p.m., Camano Center, 606 Arrowhead Road, Camano Island. $20. 360-387-0222 or www.camano center.org.

David Lee Howard (12-string guitar): 7 p.m., Washington Sips, 608 First St., La Conner. No cover. 360-399-1037.

Laura Overstreet: 7 p.m., Skagit River Brewery, 404 S. Third St., Mount Vernon. 360-336-2884.

Salvadore Dali Llama: 9:30 p.m., Brown Lantern Ale House, 412 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-293-2544.

Jim Basnight Band: 8:30 p.m., Edison Inn, 5829 Cains Court, Edison. No cover. 360-766-6266.

WEDNESDAY.10 Jean Man (alt-folk, Americana): 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

THURSDAY.11 Stilly River Boys: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-5881720.

Amara & Phil: 7 p.m., Conway Muse, 18444 Spruce/Main, Conway. 360-445-3000.

Trish Hatley: 6 to 9 p.m., Rockfish Grill, 320 Commercial Ave., Anacortes. No cover. 360-588-1720.