The Hip Hop Nutcracker
7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.
Every year between early November and Dec. 25, the “Nutcracker” theme gets stuck in my head at least once. The classic ballet (and its accompanying score) is a Christmas staple for countless families, mine included — but regardless of how well you know it, I’m willing to bet you’ve never seen anything like the version coming to Mount Baker Theatre on Nov. 13.
“The Hip Hop Nutcracker” does exactly what you’d expect based on the name: It takes the classic “Nutcracker” show, replaces ballet with hip-hop and throws in some creative visuals for good measure. More than a dozen performers will show off their dance abilities to the tune of classic Tchaikovsky tunes, proving that even after a century of performances, “The Nutcracker” can still be surprising. Don’t be mistaken, though: Despite the creative liberties, this re-imagined version is just as heartwarming as the original. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.
Holiday Wine Walk
5–8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15, downtown Bellingham
Here’s a fun fact: Washington state is the second-largest wine-producing state in the US, second only to California. Washington is home to a staggering number of wineries — 1,050, to be exact — and with so many varietals and producers to choose from, selecting the right bottle can be daunting.
If you’re stuck on what to bring to Thanksgiving dinner, the Holiday Wine Walk is an opportunity to sample new wineries and get to know downtown Bellingham’s local business scene. Eighteen shops are acting as “pop-up tasting rooms” in this year’s event, and general admission alone gets you 10 tasting tickets. Note that this event is known to sell out, so buy tickets in advance. Info: downtownbellingham.com.
Mountainfilm On Tour
7:15–10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, Whatcom Community College Syre Theater, 237 West Kellogg Road
Mountainfilm Festival gives a platform to films that celebrate “adventure, activism, social justice, environment and indomitable spirit.” Subsequently, the Telluride, Colorado-based film festival appeals to a variety of demographics: activists, athletes, adrenaline junkies, environmentalists and folks who simply appreciate a well-made documentary.
The touring version brings the year’s most inspiring shorts to towns across the U.S. — Bellingham included. Its Nov. 16 screening also doubles as a fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Bellingham, a local organization whose values align with Mountainfilm’s social justice-oriented mission. And while the screening might not be happening at an actual movie theater, audiences can still purchase popcorn, snacks and drinks (including beer and wine). Info: bellinghamrotary.org.
Red Barn Holiday Market
Nov. 15–16, 6–9 p.m. (Friday) and 10–4 p.m. (Saturday), Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center, 1775 Front St., Lynden
If you had to choose just one Whatcom County Christmas market to attend this year, Red Barn would be a great pick. What began as a small craft fair has grown into a massive annual tradition, this year boasting more than 100 individual vendors. In other words: To get a headstart on holiday shopping, this is the place to go.
On Friday evening and all day Saturday, visitors to the Northwest Washington fairgrounds can buy everything from home decor to vintage items, clothing and plenty of items for kids and babies. Extra eager shoppers can gain early entry at 4 p.m. Friday by purchasing a VIP ticket. Tickets are available at the door ($5 on Saturday), and kids 12 and under enter free. Info: redbarnmarketevents.com.
‘Sacrum Mysterium’
Nov. 16–17, noon (Saturday) and 5 p.m. (Sunday), Church of the Assumption, 2116 Cornwall Ave.
The Bellingham Chamber Chorale organization aims to provide the community with “diverse, challenging and eclectic choral concerts” — and its upcoming show is no exception. “Sacrum Mysterium” uses renowned composers’ works to explore the “profound mysteries of human existence,” blending eras and traditions to create a one-of-a-kind musical experience.
Dr. Frederick B. Mabalot serves as the choir’s artistic director and conductor, and he also curated the evening’s program. Standout pieces include Gabriel Jackson’s “O Sacrum Convivium,” Eric Whitacre’s “Water Night” and even “The Lord’s Prayer” in a Filipino language by Fidel Calalang Jr. The evening even includes a piece by Mabalot himself, entitled “Ubi Caritas et Amor.” Ultimately, the performance should showcase for Bellingham’s rich — and sometimes surprising — tapestry of musical talent. Info: bellinghamchamberchorale.org.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
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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.
Cocoa Laney is CDN’s lifestyle editor; reach her at cocoalaney@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 128.
