AMY’S PICKS
‘Harvesting Joy’ at Ben Mann Studios
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fridays through Sundays through Dec. 31, 1000 Harris Ave.
Even if you don’t know who Ben Mann is, you’ve likely seen his paintings — whether on the wall at Avenue Bread, on a poster for an upcoming event being put on by Day-to-Day Dance, on the cover of books, or in group exhibits.
Mann’s colorful and playful paintings are everywhere, including at his own studio in the Morgan Block Building in historic Fairhaven. With a “hot cider meets cool art” theme, Mann will be holding court every weekend through New Year’s Eve.
He may be painting during your visit, but that’s part of the allure of visiting a working artist. Trust me, he’ll put down his brushes in order to talk to you about whatever piece you’re interested in, grab one of his “Mann-made” calendars, or pour a cup of cider. He’s that kind of guy. Warning: The studio is up 55 steep stairs, so you may need to stop and take a breath at the top. Info: ben-mann.com.
‘Himalaya to Cascadia/Transcending Boundaries’
Through Dec. 9, Western Gallery, WWU
Bellingham-based artist Jyoti Duwadi was born in Nepal, but the pieces he makes — from sculptures to paintings, drawings, installations and digital art — also reflect his many explorations of the Pacific Northwest landscape.
The artworks currently on display on the Western Washington University campus cover 50 years of creation, from 1973–2023, and often address social and environmental issues. Additionally, his experimentation with natural materials such as bamboo, beeswax and even dirt makes its way into the works, as do discarded objects such as egg cartons and sanding belts.
The expansive, thought-provoking exhibit was curated by retired Whatcom Museum curator Barbara Matilsky, who previously worked with Duwadi in a “Vanishing Ice” exhibition in 2013. Matilsky is a pro, and has helped put together a show that shouldn’t be missed. Entry is free and open to the public. Info: westerngallery.wwu.edu.
Holiday Caroling
6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, Sunnyland Elementary, 2800 James St.
For many years, friends would gather at my York neighborhood abode in advance of Christmas caroling outings, which would invariably begin with knocking on the doors of nearby neighbors and end with us belting out songs like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Silent Night” to unsuspecting bar patrons in downtown Bellingham. Musical talent was not required.
That will also be the case at this annual event being hosted by the Sunnyland Neighborhood Association. Attendees can meet at the covered playground area, enjoy holiday treats and warm beverages and raise their voices to sing holiday favorites. Those in festive attire will be entered into a contest to win prizes.
Additionally, organizers will be collecting donations for Hope House, a Sunnyland-based organization that helps meet the basic needs of neighbors. Check their Facebook page to view a list of donations most useful to their outreach work. Info: Facebook.com/bellinghamhopehouse/.
‘The Man Who Saved Christmas’
Dec. 8–17, Black Box Theater, Blaine High School
When longtime actor Sandy Brewer reached out to me recently to draw attention to this play being produced by the Blaine Community Theater, I listened. Brewer has been a staple of the local theater scene for many years, and it’s worth paying attention to what he says.
Brewer said the newish musical by Ron Lytle, loosely based on the true story of A.C. Gilbert — the inventor of the Erector Set — has many interesting aspects to it.
“We have kids, we have the newspaper reporter/executive secretary romance, the sneering factory foreman, and even the War Department trying to discourage buying toys at Christmas,” he said. “You really ought to come see it, just for something different — and it’s really family fare.”
With a stellar cast (including Brewer in a couple “juicy” chorus parts), direction by Robb Deines, choreography by Renee Scheib and musical direction by Rebecca Wright, it sounds as if “The Man Who Saved Christmas” is well worth driving to Blaine for. Tell ‘em Sandy sent you. Tickets are $12.50–$17.70. Info: blainecommunitytheater.com.
Children’s Holiday Market
11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, Bloedel Donovan Community Center, 2214 Electric Ave.
I know there are a plethora of artisan/holiday/craft/bazaar events happening during this time of the year that deserve attention, but this one hosted by the City of Bellingham is a little different.
For one thing, all of the many gifts and goodies that will be on display and for sale will have been created by area youth who are learning that what they are creating has value — a lesson which will serve them well both in the long run and also immediately upon leaving the venue with money in hand.
Speaking of which, all sales are cash only, no item will be priced at more than $10, and small bills are encouraged. Entry is free to browse and shop, so lend your support to young artisans and entrepreneurs and find cool gifts. Info: cob.org.
Holiday Home Tour
5–9 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, throughout Sedro-Woolley
When I see a house that’s been festooned for the holidays, I often wonder if the inside is as decked out as the outside. (No, I don’t peek through the windows to see if that’s actually the case.)
When this event hosted by the Sedro-Woolley Museum returns after a four-year hiatus, it will give curious visitors and residents a legitimate chance to get sneak peeks at both the exteriors and interiors of a number of historic houses in the city.
The fun kicks off at the museum’s headquarters at 727 Murdock St., where refreshments will be served and booklets with a map and details of each of the seven historic houses on this year’s tour will be provided. From there, visit them at your leisure. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. In-person sales will end at 8 p.m. so the tour can wrap up on time. Info: sedro-woolleymuseum.org.
‘Wizard People, Dear Bellingham’
7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
Raise your hand if you’ve got a wizard costume hanging out in your closet. If so, you’ll want to don it in advance of this wacky-but-wonderful event returning to town, because there will be a costume contest at intermission.
I’m going to attempt to describe the show, but I have a feeling you’ll need to attend to get the full spectrum of what it’s all about.
Basically, a guy named Professor Brett Niley will perform a one-man reinterpretation of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” A live band will provide the score, and sound effects will be provided by a foley team while a mutated version of the film is projected behind the action.
The show sold out for years in Portland, Oregon, and organizers say it’s “hellbent on clawing its way into the wintertime heart of Bellingham.” Rated PG-13+, it’s not for the faint of heart. Tickets are $15–$20. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
ALL LISTINGS
Thursday, Nov. 30
Holiday Festival of the Arts
Daily through Christmas Eve, 1331 Commercial St.
Offerings by more than 100 vendors can be perused and purchased through the holidays, with live music, crafts and demos taking place on Saturdays and Sundays. Info: alliedarts.org.
‘The Good, the Bad, and The Ugly’
7:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
Bellingham’s longest-running improv show takes place every Thursday, featuring a rotating performance format as well as special guest players. Tickets are $10–$14. Info: theupfront.com.
Friday, Dec. 1
Pacific Arts Market
10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Bellis Fair Mall
This 27th annual event continues Fridays through Sundays through Dec. 17 inside the mall, between JCPenney and the food court. Come out and meet the artists in their element. Info: pacificartsmarket.com.
Holiday Artwalk
6–9 p.m., downtown Anacortes
Check out everything from paintings to sculptures, jewelry, photography, music, treats and other creations at this free event. Info: anacortesart.com.
First Friday
6–10 p.m., throughout downtown Bellingham
Check out local artists and galleries, places to eat and drink, late-night shopping, events, live music and more. The monthly event hosted by Downtown Bellingham Partnership changes its lineup every month, so check their website near the date to find out where to go and what to see. Info: downtownbellingham.com.
Make.Sale Holiday Market
6–10 p.m., Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Make.Shift Art Space, 306 Flora St.
More than 16 local vendors will be selling their arts and crafts during this annual two-day event. The longtime market is known for its reasonable prices and celebration of creativity. Info: makeshiftartspace.org.
Puppet Slam
7 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
Attend an evening of experimental short puppet shows presented by a wide array of local and regional artists including River’s Teeth, West of Roan, Sarah Schermer, Amy Connolly and more. Tickets are $10–$15. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
‘The Snow Queen’
7 p.m., BAAY Theatre, 1059 N. State St.
Over the course of four weeks, Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth will feature four different casts of students ages 9–12 performing this “playful remix” of the classic fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. Showings happen Fridays through Sundays through Jan. 7. Tickets are $12. Info: baay.org.
‘Seussical the Musical’
7:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre, Mount Vernon
Presented by NITE Theater, this play is described as a “whimsical romp through some of the classic Dr. Seuss stories from our youth.” Expect to see characters such as the Grinch, Cindy Lou-Who, the Cat in the Hat, and Horton the Elephant (among others). Tickets are $16–$34; performances take place through Dec. 16. Info: lincolntheatre.org.
‘A Christmas Carol’
7:30 p.m., The Claire Theatre, 655 Front St., Lynden
Show up for the second weekend of this oft-produced play focused on a grumpy old man who can’t find the holiday spirit without the help of a trio of ghosts who point him in the right direction. Tickets are $13–$18. Limited tickets remain. Info: theclaire.org.
‘The Skin of Our Teeth’
7:30 p.m., Old Main Theater, WWU
Student Theatre Productions (STP) presents this Thornton Wilder play about family and perseverance tonight through Sunday. Matthew Balam directs. Tickets are $7–$10. Info: tickets.wwu.edu.
Saturday, Dec. 2
Holiday Harbor Lights
9 a.m. to 7 p.m., throughout Blaine
This daylong event kicks off with a breakfast at the Senior/Community Center. Highlights of the day include a Christmas play, two holiday craft bazaars, live music, a Holiday Lights Dash, beer garden, visits with Santa, free carriage and train rides, and a tree lighting at G Street Plaza. Info: blainebythesea.com.
Bellingham Farmers Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Ave.
Approximately 90 vendors from Whatcom and Skagit counties are on site at this weekly market, which continues every Saturday through Dec. 16. Info: bellnghamfarmers.org.
Dockside Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fishermen’s Pavilion, Squalicum Harbor
Local fisherfolk will be selling their fresh and frozen wares at this twice-monthly market. Visit the pavilion early to find the best selection of seafood options. Details and participating vendors and products are posted 24 hours ahead of sale days. Info: bellinghamseafeast.org.
Guemes Island Art Studio Tour
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., throughout Guemes Island
Take a short ferry ride from Anacortes to check out this free, self-guided event, which gives more than 50 island artists an opportunity to feature their work at 16 studio locations. Info: guemesislandart.org.
Holiday Port Festival
11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bellingham Cruise Terminal, 355 Harris Ave.
Today and Sunday, this annual event will feature a popular gingerbread house contest and display, photos and visits with Santa, performances by local music and dance groups, and food options. Entry is free. Info: portofbellingham.com.
Holiday Stories on Ice
Noon, Bellingham Sportsplex, 1225 Civic Field Way
Bellingham Figure Skating Club hosts this annual performance, which will tell three well-known Christmas stories with a few fun twists. A range of skating skills will be included, and there will be hot cocoa, homemade cookies and raffle baskets. Tickets are $10. Info: Facebook.com/bellinghamfsc/.
Lend Us Your Ears
2 p.m., Bellingham Theatre Guild, 1600 H St.
This play reading series continues with David Lindsay-Abaire’s esoteric comedy “Kimberly Akimbo,” which spawned the Tony-winning Broadway musical. The pay-what-you-will performance follows a teen who suffers from a disease that ages her rapidly; her dysfunctional parents who hide their denial in bad choices, self-harm or drinking; her larcenous aunt; and the boy she likes (who likes her back). Info: bellinghamtheatreguild.com.
‘Pet Store Santa’ reading
2 p.m., Village Books, 1200 11th St.
Children’s book author and Blaine resident Jo Hudson will present her third book at a free event in the bookstore’s Reading Gallery. Hudson will read the tome; talk about writing, illustrating and pets (naturally); and engage children in a game of Pet Store Santa Bingo. Info: villagebooks.com.
‘Saving ChristmasTown’
2 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
Three showings of this annual production by The Dance Studio will take place through Sunday. The show features elves who must defend ChristmasTown from the residents of Oogie Boogie Land. Tickets are $16–$24. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
Clearbrook Dixie Band
2–5 p.m., VFW Hall, 625 N. State St.
Bellingham Traditional Jazz Society presents this monthly concert and swing dance. Trumpeter and band leader Dale Steele will be joined by fellow musicians Millie Johnson, Rob Queisser, Mark Lindenbaum, Lou Lipmann and more. Entry is $5–$20. Info: bellinghamjazz.com.
‘Year in Review’ opening reception
3–5 p.m., Smith & Vallee Gallery, Edison
Through Dec. 23, this exhibition will feature a curated selection of artworks which have been displayed in the gallery on a month-to-month basis throughout 2023. From paintings to sculptures and multimedia works, find a diverse range of works. Info: Info: smithandvalleegallery.com.
Arts & Ales Holiday Market
3–8 p.m, Aslan Depot, 1322 N. State St.
At this fourth annual event, purchase works by more than 20 local artists, craftspeople and small businesses. Mulled wine, brews and more will also be available to purchase. There will also be live music. Info: aslanbrewing.com.
Firelight Stroll
5–8 p.m., Padden Creek Trail, Fairhaven
As part of Winterfest, hundreds of luminaries will be lighting the trail beginning at its entrance on Harris Avenue. Stroll along the trail and end at Stones Throw Brewery for a Winterfest Bonfire taking place until 9 p.m. Info: enjoyfairhaven.com.
A Holiday Evening of Belly Dance
6:30 p.m., FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.
Raqs sharqi (oriental dance), fusion and middle eastern folk dance can be seen at this event, which includes bits of the history and culture of the music and the dance. Drummer David Metz will be traveling from Seattle to join the retinue of belly dancers. Tickets are $15–$20. Info: firehouse-aec.com.
Sunday, Dec. 3
Documenting Grace Film Series
3 p.m., FireHouse Arts and Events Center, 1314 Harris Ave.
The documentary “Moving Stories” will kick off the first in a four-part dance film series by Kuntz and Company. It focuses on the Battery Dance Company, whose members travel the world, working with youth who’ve experienced everything from war to poverty, sexual violence and trauma as refugees. Additional films show monthly through March. Tickets are $6–$12. Info: kuntzandco.org.
First Anniversary Birthday Bash
5:30 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.
Celebrate the successes of this performing arts space since they opened in the former Sylvia Center for the Arts space last December. With numerous upgrades to the theater and a roster of performers running the gamut from actors to dancers, contortionists, puppeteers, filmmakers and many more, they’re inviting the public to come see performances by Andy Bunn and Friends, The Hot Tomatoes, puppeteers and others. Tickets are $25 (free for members, $10 for performers). Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
Depot Comedy Night
8 p.m. Aslan Depot, 1322 N. State St.
Portland-based stand-up comedian Adam Pasi will headline this monthly event featuring top-tier talent from around the region. Tonight’s featured comedian will be Timmy Booth, and show-runner and national headliner Travis Nelson will host. Tickets are $20. Info: aslanbrewing.com.
Monday, Dec. 4
Guffawingham
8:30 p.m., Boots Bar and Lounge, 1263 Barkley Blvd.
This weekly stand-up comedy show has returned from the ashes, and can be attended every Monday. Each show will feature a host, and people can show up early to sign up for a slot on the roster. Info: Facebook.com/guffawingham.
Wednesday, Dec. 6
Storm Music Extravaganza
6 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
Squalicum High School’s music department will be on full display for this concert. From jazz band to treble choir to chamber orchestra, you will hear from every ensemble in the choir, band and orchestra programs, including a full symphony and choir piece to close the concert. Tickets are $5–$10. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
Student Soloists, Chamber Ensemble
7:30 p.m., Heiner Theater, Whatcom Community College
On Wednesday, students from the associate in music degree program will perform selections from classical and modern repertoire, to popular songs and musical theater. At 7:30 p.m. Thursday, the WCC Chamber Music Ensemble will present a concert of works by Mozart, Astor Piazzola, Bert Ligon, Leonard Cohen and Richard Rodgers, as well as original student compositions. Both events are free and open to the public. Info: 360-383-3548.
Thursday, Dec. 7
Tales of the Season
6 p.m., Village Books, 1200 11th St.
As part of Fairhaven Winterfest, attend a live group reading of short stories on the theme of “A Mid-Winter Night’s Dream.” Printed copies of each selected story will be available for guests to take home. Entry is $6 (fees will be applied to Winterfest activities). Info: villagebooks.com.
Friday, Dec. 8
Winter Wonderland Walk
5–8 p.m., Washington Park, Anacortes
The campground will be decorated with holiday cheer by local groups and organizations, and there will be live music, campfires and hot chocolate. This event takes place outdoors, so dress accordingly and bring a flashlight. Info: anacortes.org.
Jazz Ensembles
7:30 p.m., Performing Arts Center Concert Hall, WWU
Show up for Big Band Night featuring two different bands — Big Band I and Big Band II. The event is free and open to the public. Info: cfpa.wwu.edu.
‘Bellingham Buddies Save Xmas’
9:30 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.
If you’ve never seen an improvised puppet show, now is your chance. The action happens in Bellingham’s Lettered Street on Christmas Eve, where Christmas is in danger and only the Bellingham Buddies can help save the season. The shows are suitable for ages 12 and older. Tickets are $10–$16. Info: theupfront.com.
Saturday, Dec. 9
‘Christmas in Our Hearts’
2 p.m., Lairmont Manor, 405 Fieldston Road
The Bellingham Chamber Chorale presents its winter holiday concert and fundraiser. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. with wine and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $100. Proceeds will help fund the hiring of professional soloists and musicians for the chorale’s “Messiah” concert — a unique musical experience happening in June. Info: bellinghamchamberchorale.org.
‘Once Upon a Time’
7:30 p.m., McIntyre Hall, Mount Vernon
Skagit Symphony will feature seasonal works with guest artist Marcel Helland and Debussy’s seldom-heard “Rhapsody for Saxophone and Orchestra.” The show will end with Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” Tickets are $10–$50. Info: mcintyrehall.org.
Sunday, Dec. 10
A Very Merry Holiday Market
11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Eagle Haven Winery, Sedro-Woolley
Explore the creations of local small businesses, artists and crafters, visit with Santa and sip on wine and other beverages during this daylong event. Donations for the eaglehavenwinery.com.
Second Sunday Jazz
2 p.m., Anacortes Public Library, 1220 10th St.
Guitarist and composer Jack Radsliff will be the featured performer at this free monthly concert. Radsliff has developed a reputation as a sideman, which has led him to work with some of the Pacific Northwest’s biggest names. Info: jazzatthelibrary.com.
Holiday Magic!
3 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
Guest conductor James Ray will helm this Bellingham Symphony Orchestra concert featuring holiday classics programmed for both youth and adults, with a selection of seasonal classics such as “Sleigh Ride,” “Polar Express” and “Silent Night.” Hot cocoa will be served during intermission. Tickets are $15–$39. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
‘Josephine’
7 p.m., New Prospect Theater, 204 Prospect St.
This award-winning, one-woman biographical musical combines cabaret, theater and dance to tell the story of the iconic Josephine Baker, the first African-American international superstar and one of the most remarkable figures of the 20th century. Tickets are $20. Info: newprospecttheatre.org.
Before heading out to attend in-person happenings, check with individual venues to make sure the event is still taking place as scheduled.
The A-List appears weekly. To submit an event for consideration, email calendar@cascadiadaily.com.
