Holiday Special Section

Transcription

Seattle Gay News
Issue 47, Volume 43, November 20, 2015
Holiday Special Section
Pacific Northwest Ballet presents
Seattle premiere of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker ™
Pacific Northwest Ballet company dancers in the snow scene from George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™, choreography by George Balanchine © The
George Balanchine Trust. PNB’s new production of The Nutcracker, featuring sets and costumes designed by Ian Falconer (Olivia the Pig) runs November
27 – December 28, 2015. More information at PNB.org – Photo © Angela Sterling.
Pike Place Market decked out for the holidays
Pike Place Market – Photo by Art Kuniyuki
Magic in the Market
Celebrate the holiday season at Magic in the Market on Saturday, November 28, 1-5pm.
Meet and take FREE photos with Santa. Decorate gingerbread cookies with your family in the Market Atrium Kitchen.
Delight in performances by the Figgy Pudding Caroling Teams, right under the Public Market Center clock and sign.
Enjoy Tiny’s Organic apple cider, indi chocolate’s hot chocolate and MarketSpice tea while you shop for locally made gifts.
At 5:00 pm, Santa will lead a countdown to the lighting of the 20-foot holiday tree and lights throughout the Market.
Join in the fun and the kick off to the holiday season! This event is free. No tickets required.
2 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
Celebrating 41 Years!
Visit us online www.sgn.org
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Seattle Gay News 3
4 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
Compiled by Justin Craig
& Rick McKinnon
SGN Staff Writers
ARTS/CRAFTS/GIFTS
Pratt Fine Arts Center Holiday Art
Sale. Nov. 20-29, 11am-7pm daily, except
closed Thanksgiving Day. 1905 S. Main St.
Pratt Fine Arts Center’s annual Holiday Art
Sale showcases an exceptional selection of
art and unique gifts made by our extended
community of artists working in glass, jewelry, wood, textiles, sculpture, photography, painting, printmaking, and more. Free
and open to the public, proceeds from this
10-day sale support Pratt Fine Arts Center,
the most dynamic, year-round, multi-disciplinary arts center in the Pacific Northwest,
as well as our incredible roster of local artists! FREE admission. www.pratt.org.
26th Anniversary Seattle Area Support Groups & Community Center Holiday Tree (& Greenery) Sale. Nov. 27-Dec.
23, 9am-9pm. SASGCC, 303 17th Ave. E.
www.sasgcc.org; 206-322-2437.
Seattle Sampling Artists Studio Tour.
Dec. 4-6, 12 & 19. Don’t miss the Seattle
Sampling Artists Studio Tour – celebrating
its 26th year. Nearly 50 of Seattle’s awardwinning and professional crafts people will
be showing at nine locations throughout the
greater Seattle area. This free, self-guided
tour offers holiday shoppers a relaxed and
intimate opportunity to meet the artists in
their own environments. First Choice Friday: Dec. 4, 4-9pm; and Sat-Sun, Dec. 5 &
6, 10am-5pm. Second Chance Saturdays:
Dec. 12 & 19, 10am-5pm. Times and locations vary. A map and a complete listing of
all the artists and their locations are available for download at www.seattlesampling.
com. Shop local this holiday season and
support Seattle’s vibrant artist community.
Seward Park Clay Studio Winter
Holiday Show & Sale. Dec. 4-24. 5900
Lake Washington Blvd. S. Preview Night
PARTY Dec. 4th, 6:30-9:30pm, is a great
chance to get the pick of the best ceramics
in town, with over 40 artists represented in
the sale. $10 suggested donation at the door:
light food, drink and fun. From Dec. 5-24
the sale is FREE and open to the public:
Mon-Fri 11am-7pm; Sat-Sun 10am-6pm.
Shop for amazing holiday presents while
supporting one of the Northwest’s cultural
gems. What is on view and available for
purchase includes an impressive range of
work: including sculpture, majolica, functional stoneware, delicate porcelains, raku,
wood-fire, wall hangings. Even if you aren’t
in the market for purchasing (and prices are
remarkably affordable!), just surveying the
range of expression in clay is worth a trip to
this event. www.sewardparkart.org.
Arboretum Foundation’s “Gifts Galore” Holiday Sale. Dec. 5, 10am-2pm.
Washington Park Arboretum Graham Visitors Center, 2300 Arboretum Dr. E. Don’t
miss this popular annual holiday sale. It
features an expanded selection of natureinspired gifts from the Arboretum Shop,
including local, seasonal specialty items.
You’ll also find a fabulous selection of
handmade wreaths and centerpieces, and
unique fresh-cut greens donated by local
gardeners and the Arboretum staff. Free
hot drinks: Shoppers can also warm up
with complimentary beverages, including
ZOKA Arboretum Blend coffee, hot chocolate, and cider. All sales benefit the Washington Park Arboretum. 206-325-4510;
www.arboretumfoundation.org.
PLEASE DONATE YOUR GREENS:
The staff will be accepting donations of
fresh-cut greens at the Graham Visitors
Center any time of day from Monday, November 30 through Thursday, December
3. Drop-off will be at the west side of the
building, alongside Arboretum Drive.
Look for the drop-off sign posts. We’ll be
posting a wish list for donated greens soon.
Thank you!
INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING?
If you’d like to help out at this event, please
contact Volunteer Resources Manager Megan Meyer at [email protected]; 206-325-4510.
South Park Arts 11th Annual Art Under $100 Holiday Sale. Dec. 12, 2-8pm.
Seattle Design Center, 5701 6th Ave. S.
Artists from South Park and beyond will
knock your stockings off with original
work not seen at a typical holiday sale.
This year, over 70 amazing artists will
showcase a diverse array of art, including
painting, sculpture, neon, jewelry, clothing,
photography, glass, letterpress, and more.
See website for details. And everything’s
affordable with nothing priced over $100.
FREE entry, except $20 VIP entry 1-2pm.
Enjoy food trucks. Free covered parking.
All proceeds go to South Park Arts. www.
southparkarts.org.
2015 Native Art Mart. Dec. 12 & 13,
10am-4pm. Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center in Discover Park, 5011 Bernie
Whitebear Way. Over 30 authentic Native
arts and crafts vendors. Beautiful work by
Native American artists. Clothing, jewelry,
woodworking, drums, art prints, and so
much more. Many styles and tribes represented. Affordable, unique and fun! Enjoy
salmon lunch, Indian tacos. Native dance
groups at 1pm. Find great holiday gifts at
the United Indians Art Mart. Funding received from vendor and food sales go to the
United Indians Elder Meals and Community Program.
The Vera Project and Hollow Earth
Radio Host 8th Annual DIY Holiday
Fair. Dec. 13, 11am-4pm. Vera Project,
Seattle Center grounds north of Key Arena
near Warren Ave. & Republican St. The 8th
Annual DIY Holiday Fair will be a marketplace for independent music and crafts,
along with vinyl DJs and interactive screenprinting with independent Northwest record, CD, and cassette labels, screenprinted
art, local artists, crafts-makers, and designers selling their wares throughout Vera’s
space along with the return of the Vera
Vintage Corner. Over 35 vendors will be
participating. Audio ambiance will be provided by Hollow Earth Radio DJs and folks
are encouraged to come with empty stom-
November 20, 2015
achs to enjoy baked goods and food truck
offerings. Bring a blank shirt, sweatshirt,
or tote bag and pick from an array of Vera’s
in-house designs for the Vera Screenprinters’ annual Bring-It Screen-It! This is the
perfect opportunity to find a one-of-a-kind
gift just in time for the holidays. www.
theveraproject.org; https://www.facebook.
com/events/1480868822222438/
The Handmade Showroom Pop-Up at
Pacific Place, 600 E Pine St., 3rd floor, is a
(currently) temporary pop-up shop featuring finely made work by over 70 local artists, makers, and designers from the Pacific
Northwest. The showroom is open Mon.Sat., 10am-8pm & Sun., 11am-7pm through
December 2015. For more information,
visit http://TheHandmadeShowroom.com
HOLIDAY EVENTS
Festival of Trees. Nov. 21-Dec. 2. Fairmont Olympic Hotel, 411 University St. An
annual holiday favorite – come gaze at a
display of beautifully decorated trees during the 38th Festival of Trees. Each tree is
accompanied by a photo and story of a courageous Seattle Children’s patient. The dinner and auction on Nov. 21 works with the
Autism Guild to raise money for the Seattle
Children’s Autism Center and Uncompensated Care at Seattle Children’s. Trees will
be on display for about two weeks. www.
seattlefestivaloftrees.com.
Sheraton Seattle Hotel’s 23rd Annual Gingerbread Village – “May the
Holidays Be With You.” Nov. 24-Jan. 3.
1400 6th Ave. at Pike St. Inspired by scenes
from Star Wars movies, Jedi of all ages will
marvel at this year’s larger-than-life gingerbread creations. Since 1992, the Sheraton’s
expert culinary team has partnered with
top local architecture firms to design, build
and delight the crowds with intricate, holiday-themed gingerbread displays. This unforgettable event keeps more than 150,000
visitors coming back year after year and is
see Holiday events page 8
Seattle Gay News 5
6 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
by Albert Rodriguez
SGN A&E Writer
As it begins to look a lot like Christmas, the time to shop and partake of this
celebratory season lands upon us. To avoid
the long department store cashier lines and
massive mall crowds, and to truly savor the
wintry festivities beyond gift buying, allow me to recommend something that offers a bit more comfort and joy; a weekend
escape to Victoria. The British Columbian
city, just a few hours from Seattle by ferry
or even quicker by seaplane, goes all out for
the holidays. In addition to colorful light
displays and snowy decorations along the
waterfront and downtown, there’s a lengthy
list of events, activities, and live performances in or around Victoria that will put
you in the holiday mood, plus the surrounding beauty of mountains, pine tree forests,
and the Inner Harbour mixed with crisp,
cool Northwest air makes for a great spot
to spend a couple of days between now and
New Year’s, whether you want to shop or
just relax.
Here’s a sampling of things to experience in Victoria in November, December
and early January, and travel tips should
you decide to head up for a weekend. Go to
tourismvictoria.com for further trip planning information.
TRAVELING BY FERRY OR
SEAPLANE
Santa may have a sleigh and reindeer,
but we have the Victoria Clipper. Seattle
travelers can enjoy year-round ferry service between the two cities, getting you to
each destination in under 3 hours. From the
Seattle Waterfront on Pier 69, through the
winter season, the Clipper departs daily at
8 a.m. (10:45 a.m. arrival) and returns from
Victoria’s Inner Harbour at 5 p.m. (7:45
p.m. arrival), allowing travelers to stay
overnight or go for a daytrip. If the day is
clear, you’ll be treated to lush scenery on
the short voyage, as many of the seats on
the ferry are window-side; if weather permits, the open-air upper deck will be accessible for unobstructed viewing. Snacks and
light meals are available for purchase, and
Caffe Vita coffee is usually offered complimentary. Passengers should plan on arriving to either terminal at least 1 hour before
their departure time; boarding begins 45
minutes prior to departure. To book reservations, visit
www.clippervacations.com. For a speedier trek to Victoria, Kenmore Air flies directly into Inner Harbour from Lake Union
by seaplane, or to nearby Nanaimo from
Boeing Field by wheeled aircraft; each
flight clocks in under an hour. Upon landing in Victoria, the airline extends passengers complimentary shuttle service to hotels in the downtown area. For inquiries, or
to book flights, go to kenmoreair.com.
ACCOMMODATIONS
On my most recent trip to Victoria, last
December, I fulfilled a bucket list item to
stay at the famed Fairmont Empress, and
it didn’t disappoint. Opened in 1908, this
gorgeous hotel has hosted everyone from
world royalty to political dignitaries to major entertainers. The 477 guest rooms, including one or two bedroom suites and junior suites, are all elegantly furnished with
top of the line amenities, such as flatscreen
TVs with cable programming and Sony
Playstation, high quality linens and duvets,
Keurig coffeemakers and tea kettle with re-
Fairmont Empress – Photo by Brandon Godfrey/ Wikimedia Commons
gional gourmet coffee and Fairmont’s signature teas, terry robes, and Le Labo bath
essentials. On-site fitness center, indoor
heated pool, whirlpool, and free WiFi are
also available for guests to use at their leisure. The Indian-themed Bengal Lounge is
a cocktail destination for both visitors and
locals, an elegant bar with classy decor,
high ceilings, and daily curry buffet.
For the holidays, the exterior of the Fairmont Empress’ main entrance is illuminated in greens and reds with icicle lights laced
around its ivy-covered windows with a popup ice-skating rink on its front lawn. Inside,
a giant Christmas tree is decorated in the
grand lobby, and throughout the hotel –
mainly its ground floor, where you’ll find a
selection of restaurants and retail boutiques
– visitors are welcomed with the sights of
wreaths, holly, and other seasonal items.
If choosing the Fairmont Empress for your
stay, consider a bit of indulgence by reserving a Fairmont Gold room, which provides
guests with a hotel within a hotel experience
that includes personal concierge, exclusive
lounge with complimentary daily breakfast,
evening canapes, snacks, and refreshments,
and signature rooms.
packages are available at laurelpoint.com.
HOLIDAY MUST SEES AND DOS,
IN OR AROUND VICTORIA
Believe me, the list of holiday offerings
in Victoria, or nearby, is long. But here are
five that I recommend.
Santa Claus Parade /
Truck Light Parade /
Lighted Ship Parade
November 28, 2015 and
December 5, 2015 in
Downtown Victoria
Do you love a parade? Well, there are
three of them happening in Victoria to celebrate the holiday season, beginning with
the Island Farms 2015 Santa Claus Parade
on November 28 (5:45 p.m.) that includes
appearances by Santa, the Grinch, and other known characters, plus customized floats
that wind their way through town. Starting
point is Government and Belleville, ending point is at Capitol Iron. On December
5 (5:45 p.m.), the IEOA Truck Light Parade
begins at Ogden Point and weaves through
Oak Bay and downtown Victoria, before
passing through View Royal and Langford
with a convoy of decorated trucks. Immediately following, around 7 p.m., is the Light
Ship Parade that features a series of boats
festooned with colorful lights that will
glide through Inner Harbour. Afterwards,
you can stop by the Christmas Market with
local artisan vendors, food trucks, and beverage stands selling both non-alcoholic
Christmas in Old Victoria /
Ghosts of Christmas Past
walking tours
December 6-26, 2015
at select meeting locations
John Adams is a Victoria-based historian who organizes and leads walking
tours around the city year-round. This time
of year, he switches hats – literally – and
guides people of all ages on a Christmasthemed tour through the streets of Old
Town, sharing intriguing stories and pointing out landmarks, merchants, and places
that have a special connection with the
holidays. Dressed in a vintage cloak, festive scarf, and top hat, Adams looks the
part of a master storyteller, and luckily for
everyone, he is. Those wanting something
a tad spookier might consider his seasonal
ghostly tour that includes tales of the legend
of Christmas Hill, the ghosts of Helmcken
Alley, Victoria’s first documented ghost
sighting – Adelaide Griffin at Christmas,
in 1861 – and the Christmas Eve assassination on the steps of the Roman Catholic
Cathedral back in 1890. For additional information, or to reserve a tour, go to discoverthepast.com.
November 20, 2015
Seattle Gay News 7
Canada’s National
Gingerbread Showcase
Now thru January 3, 2016
at Inn at Laurel Point
These aren’t your ordinary gingerbread
houses, slapped together with graham
crackers and cake frosting. Nope, these
are hand-crafted pieces of art designed by
professional and amateur chefs, carefully
assembled and displayed collectively at the
Inn at Laurel Point, a waterfront hotel within walking distance of the Inner Harbour
and Victoria’s city center. Not only is this
a sweet treat for adults and children alike
– to view these remarkable and not-so-traditional gingerbread houses up close – but it
also raises money for a great cause, Habitat
for Humanity. Since its inception, the event
has raised $87,000 for the charitable organization. You don’t have to be a guest of the
Inn to see the gingerbread exhibit and admission is free; directions and room rates/
Magic of Christmas
Now thru January 6, 2016
at Butchart Gardens
A half-hour drive from downtown Victoria is the world famous Butchart Gardens,
a designated National Historical Site of
Canada. These immaculate gardens cover
55 acres of land with hundreds upon hundreds of plants, flowers and trees in a multitude of varieties, in addition to fountains,
statues, creeks, ornamental birds, and an
indoor carousel, all cared for and owned by
the Butchart-Ross family for more than 100
years. To celebrate the holidays, the gardens are magically transformed into a winter wonderland with an open-air ice skating
rink, live carolers, illuminated trees, and a
12 Days of Christmas interactive display.
Complete the visit with a cup of cocoa at
the Coffee Shop, or sit down to a meal at
The Blue Poppy Restaurant, or a lovely and
cozy dinner inside The Dining Room; each
restaurant is currently featuring seasonal
favorites on their menus. For directions,
hours, and admission prices go to butchartgardens.com.
beverages and boozy drinks. For more information on each of the parades, visit tourismvictoria.com.
British Columbia
Parliament Buildings all lit up
December 3, 2015 thru
January 1, 2016 at the
British Columbia
Parliament Buildings
The iconic parliament buildings in Victoria are a beautiful sight year-round, but
during the holiday season they lend themselves to perfect photo ops. The facade,
dome, and arched windows are brightly
lit with thousands of energy-efficient LED
lights, as are the fences at the front of the
provincial government quarters, noticeable from far away and stunning up close.
Located across the street from the Fairmont Empress and a quick stroll from the
ferry terminal, a viewing of the parliament
buildings will cost you absolutely nothing.
Guided or self-guided tours of the buildings are free and allow visitors to explore
the interior of these structures. Log onto
leg.bc.ca for hours and meeting locations
for the guided tours.
holiday events
continued from page 5
FREE to the public, although donations to
the Northwest Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation are accepted
and appreciated. Over the past two decades,
the Gingerbread Village has raised more
than $756,000 for the JDRF. The Sheraton
Seattle’s staff donates more than 1,000 volunteer hours for this event and the displays
use an estimated 1,200 lbs. of dough, 800
lbs. of icing, 200 lbs. of white chocolate,
250 lbs. of almond paste and hundreds of
pounds of candy.
Macy’s Holiday Parade. Nov. 27, 9am.
Lead by Santa on his magical sleigh and
followed by festive floats, costumed characters, and local community groups, the
parade steps off at 7th Ave. & Pine St., and
travels west on Pine St. to 5th Ave., south
on 5th Ave. to University St., west on University St. to 4th Ave., north on 4th Ave. to
Macy’s at 4th Ave. & Pine St.
Macy’s Holiday Star Lighting Ceremony and Westlake Center Christmas
Tree Lighting – followed by a fireworks
display (weather permitting). Nov. 27,
5pm. 4th Ave. & Pine St. With live entertainment leading up to the events, including singer Kimberley Nichole (from NBC’s
“The Voice”), The 5th Avenue Theatre, Seahawks tight end Luke Willson and more.
Argosy Cruise Christmas Ship. Nov.
27-Dec. 23. Holiday traditions in the Northwest start on the water with Argosy Cruises. The Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship festival is a holiday celebration that has been a
Pacific Northwest tradition since 1949. Every year, the Argosy Christmas Ship sails
to different Puget Sound waterfront communities, over 45 in total. Choirs onboard
sing 20-minute performances to these communities, all broadcast via state-of-the-art
speaker system. On shore, thousands of
people gather around roaring bonfires anticipating the arrival of the Christmas Ship.
For schedule, visit www.argosycruises.
com.
Seattle Center Winterfest. Nov. 27Dec. 31. Seattle Center Armory, Fisher Pavilion and Seattle Center grounds. A wonderland of sparkling lights, child-sized diversions and spirited entertainment brightens Seattle Center through the twilight of
the year. Stroll the grounds and you’ll discover Seattle Center Winterfest. Winterfest
Ice Rink returns, along with Saturday ice
sculpting and lively weekend performances
at Seattle Center Armory.
Visit Seattle Center Armory, all dressed
for the season, and you’ll find the enchanting Winter Train & Village, fresh food and
drink offered at Seattle Center Armory
merchants, and inspiring student showcases. The festival opens with The Dickens
Carolers and rings in the New Year with
spectacular fireworks and live music by
premiere dance band The Machine. For a
complete schedule of events and activities,
visit http://www.seattlecenter.com/winterfest/ FREE admission.
Woodland Park Zoo Wildlights. Nov.
27-Jan. 3 (except 12/24 & 25), 5:30-8:30pm
nightly. Enter through the Woodland Park
Zoo West Entrance on Phinney Ave. N. between N. 55th & N. 56th Sts. Over 600,000
energy-efficient LED lights illustrate the
paths of Woodland Park Zoo with dazzling
displays of wild animals and exotic destinations, including “African Water Hole,”
“Jungle Lights,” and “Northern Lights.”
Ride the Historic Carousel (additional fee)
and enjoy the Holiday Beer and Wine Garden at the Rain Forest Food Pavilion (21+).
Keep an eye out for the man in red!
Santa will be stopping by WildLights Fridays through Sundays prior to Christmas
as well as December 21-23. Guests can visit
the Reindeer Shelter at 5:45pm to see Santa
greet his reindeer and their keeper and then
head over to Santa’s Camp to meet jolly old
Saint Nick and take a commemorative Santa photo.
While most of the zoo’s animals will be
nestled in for the night, a few creatures will
still be stirring at the Day Exhibit, which
showcases reptiles, amphibians and a tree
kangaroo, and in the Adaptions Building,
which houses sloths, Indian flying foxes,
Komodo dragons and meerkats. In addition, the zoo’s birds of prey, porcupine, and
other animals will make scheduled appearances at the Raptor Center Fridays through
Sundays.
Admission: Adults (13+) $9.95; Children (3-12) $6.95; Toddlers (2 & under)
free. Available online at zoo.org/wildlights
or at zoo gates during regular hours. Nightof-event tickets will be sold at the zoo’s
West Entrance, if not sold out. WildLights
is a rain-or-shine event – there will be no
ticket refunds. www.
Magic in the Market. Nov. 28, 1-5pm.
Pike Place Market. Celebrate the holiday
season at Magic in the Market! Meet and
take FREE photos with Santa. Decorate
gingerbread cookies with your family in
the Market Atrium Kitchen. Get a belly full
of laughs from performances by the Figgy
Pudding Caroling Teams, right under the
Public Market Center clock and sign. Enjoy
Tiny’s Organic apple cider, indi chocolate’s
hot chocolate and MarketSpice tea while
you shop for locally made gifts. At 5pm,
Santa will lead a countdown to the lighting of the 20-foot holiday tree and lights
throughout the Market. Join in the fun and
the kick off to the holiday season! This
event is free. No tickets required.
Providence O’Christmas Trees. Nov.
30, 4-8pm. Westin Hotel, Grand Ballroom,
1900 5th Ave. Enjoy a display of artfully
decorated Christmas trees by various designers in the Pacific Northwest. All will
be auctioned off for charity and everyone is
welcome to enjoy the beautiful trees.
Fremont Festivus. Dec. 4, 5 & 6. 12/4:
Lenin Lighting at 5pm with Santa, traditional Festivus games, hot beverages and
treats and live music from Ricky Gene
Powell & Acoustic Laboratory; First Friday Art Walk & Holiday Bazaar, 6-9pm.
12/5: Pop-Up Entertainment from 11am5pm. Rocket Re-Launch at 5pm with Santa, games, give-aways and live music by
Blackjack Kerouac. 12/6: Fremont Holiday
Market on N 34th St. west of PCC, 11am4pm. Fremocentrist.com/Festivus.php
Great Figgy Pudding Street Corner
Caroling Competition. Dec. 4, 6-8:30pm.
Westlake Park neighborhood on Pine St.
between 3rd and 7th Aves. Join us for one
of Seattle’s most magical and festive nights!
This heart-warming tradition attracts nearly 10,000 people every year to enjoy holiday music and raise funds for a great organization. Immerse yourself in the holiday
spirit as dozens of caroling teams sing their
hearts out along Pine St. The top teams
then compete in a sing-off on the Figgy
Main Stage. Every year the competition
draws thousands of people to the Westlake
Center to raise money for the Pike Market
Senior Center and Downtown Food Bank.
www.pikemarketseniorcenter.org.
Saint Nick’s Holiday Open House.
Dec. 5 & 6. The wineries of Woodinville
Wine Country will open their doors from
12-5pm for the annual Saint Nicholas Day
Open House. Guests will have the opportunity to taste wines from exclusive boutique
wineries as well as special selections from
a few of Woodinville’s more well-known
8 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
participants. This is a unique and festive
holiday event where you can discover new
wineries, meet the winemakers and learn
about present offerings and future releases.
If you plan to visit many of the wineries, for
your safety and the safety of others, please
bring a designated driver along. Designated
drivers will be allowed entry to the wineries without a booklet. Sat & Sun check-in
location: Armstrong Family Winery. General admission: $65 Saturday and Sunday;
$55 Sunday only.
Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.
com/event/2245823; 1-800-838-3006.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the
Space Needle. Dec. 31 at midnight. Watch
FREE from the ground or in the heated
comfort of the observation deck. Tickets
are available now and can be purchased at
www.spaceneedle.com.
LGBT
COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS
“Light the Night: An LGBTQ Hanukkah.” Dec. 9, 6:45-8:45pm. Calamus
Auditorium at Gay City, 517 E. Pike St. Join
Kolenu, Seattle’s Jewish LGBTQ group, for
their seventh annual Hanukkah celebration! Enjoy tasty latkes, colorful dreidels,
music, and a beautiful candle lighting symbolizing both the miracle of Hanukkah and
our affirmation that great leadership and
community action will prevail against oppression. FREE and open to the community. Allies, friends, and family welcome!
RSVP to [email protected]. This is an
all-ages event.
Auntie Mame. Dec. 10, 7:30pm. AMC
Pacific Place Cinema, 600 Pine St. Celebrate the season with Three Dollar Bill
Cinema when Auntie Mame, the beloved
1958 film starring the incomparable Rosalind Russell, returns for one night only, a
“Homo for the Holidays” tradition! Always
armed with a colorful dress and an acerbic
quip, the flamboyant, vibrant Mame Dennis (Russell) is an unconventional socialite from the Roaring Twenties. When her
young orphan nephew comes to live in her
madcap party pad, Mame takes him under
her wing for an adventure in living life to its
fullest. Tickets: $13 general; $9 for Three
Dollar Bill Cinema members. This is an
all-ages event. Join us early for a pre-film
soirée from 6:30-7:15pm ... film starts at
7:30pm sharp! www.threedollarbillcinema.
org.
“Snowball! – Express Yourself.” Dec.
12, 7pm. Bertha Knight Landes Room,
City Hall, 5th Ave. at Cherry St. Ingersoll Gender Center’s annual holiday party
and fundraiser. Enjoy music, food, drink
and friends! It’s a celebration! Tickets:
$25 individual in advance and at the door;
$185 table of 8 by advance registration
only. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/
event/2461694.
“Pictures With Santa. Dec. 12, 8pmmidnight. The Cuff Complex, 1533 13th
Ave. Seattle Men in Leather’s annual holiday event allows members of the community to get an individual or family portrait
with a hunky Santa and his elves and reindeer. The portraits are professionally printed and distributed immediately following
the photo shoot. The suggested donation is
$10 per print. All proceeds from the event
will go to SML’s current beneficiary, Seattle Area Support Groups (SASG). www.
seattlemeninleather.org.
“First Annual WEA-LGBTQ Caucus
and Community Calendar Holiday Party.” Dec. 15, 6-8pm. Washington Education Association, 32032 Weyerhauser Way,
Federal Way. When your students (or chilsee Holiday events page 18
November 20, 2015
Seattle Gay News 9
10 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
by Shaun Knittel
SGN Associate Editor
Whether or not you like to shop in a
store for holiday gift buying or go through
an online retailer, time is ticking and the
holiday season is fast approaching. We all
know a friend or family member – maybe
it’s you – who are master gift givers. They
always seem to get it right. However, for
many people hunting for the perfect gift
can be stressful. Seattle Gay News is here
to help! Here is a list of items that will make
great gifts this Christmas:
Cardboard iPad TV Stand: If you’re
like me then most of your friends watch TV
on their iPad. Still, there is just something
nostalgic and comforting for a great many
over 35-years-old crowd when it comes to
remembering cranking that old school TV
dial in search for your favorite show. Now
you can have both! The Cardboard iPad
TV Stand is a recycled cardboard stand
that gives your iPad the look of a retro TV,
recreating the golden days of tuning in with
family. This product, designed by Luis Rodrigalvarez could be yours to give for just
$30 online.
Mixed-Tape Glasses (Set of 6): We’ve
found the perfect gift for a friend who
throws the majority of house or holiday
parties you will attend this year! For $50
you can gift said friend a set of six MixedTape glasses that are designed to be personalized by house guests who simply write
their name on the memo line of the old cassette tape design that appears on each glass.
Toaster Grilled Cheese Bags: Look-
ing for the perfect White Elephant gift?
Need to send your college friend of nephew
who just moved into his first apartment a
practical yet affordable present for Christmas? Then the $10 Toaster Grilled Cheese
Bags are for you. These pouches let you
pop a cheese sandwich into the toaster for
perfect grilling – no pre-heating the pan,
waiting to flip the sandwich, or laborious
clean up afterward. Simply lift the pouch
from the toaster using the integrated handles and slide your sandwich out onto your
plate. It also works for grilling pitas, heating leftover pizza and more. The bags are
coated with Teflon™, which is heat resistant
and non-stick, so your cheese won’t burn or
be stuck to the bag.
the walk, and makes it easy for anyone to
paint their own canvas or leather shoes, no
matter how old or new they are. The waterproof paint has been lab tested and exceeds
100,000 dry flex repetitions without chipping, cracking, or losing color.
DIY Smartphone Projector: This is
the perfect gift for people who always seem
to say, “Hey, watch this!” and show you a
video of someone making a fool of themselves in a video uploaded to social media.
This projector, which costs around $32, accommodates any phone up to 3 x 5.5 inches
and displays your videos, photos, or text on
the wall for all to see by simply sliding the
back compartment in and out to focus the
image, then let the glass lens do its magnifying work – without the need to connect
to a power source. The easy-to-assemble
corrugated cardboard structure offers two
slots for speakers or a phone charger, so you
won’t run out of juice halfway through a
YouTube marathon.
Footwelt Mini Self-Balancing 2
Wheel Scooter with LED Light: Okay,
so we’ll be the first to admit that $365 is a
lot for a gift, but this gift will totally blow
away anyone who you buy it for – or makes
a great gift to yourself if you’ve been less
naughty and more nice this year. Footwelt T1, two-wheel auto balancing electric
scooter, giving a much more stable ride
and a faster response, making it safer and
easier to control. The turning radius can be
zero, which means that it can be operated
in a very narrow space, reaching almost
every possible place where people can go.
You can also stand still on it and even turn
360 degree in a spot. Just step on, you will
be able to ride it. Two wheels, two motors,
with double balancing systems keeping you
in balance. It accelerates by simply applying pressure with the front your feet. It carries two driver motors within the wheels
that can be controlled with both feet individually for easy turns, rotation, acceleration and smooth breaking.
Sneaker Customization Kit: Sometimes you find that shoe that is the perfect
fit, perfect price – but not the perfect color
or look. The Sneaker Customization Kit
is a great gift for the artist in your life and
the shoe lover too! For just $35 this freestyle kit packs everything you need to walk
November 20, 2015
The Ultimate Beard Haircare Pack:
In the year of the Lumbersexual comes the
$39.95 Ultimate Beard Haircare Pack. All
natural facial haircare set, featuring beard
oil, whisker wash and mustache wax.
Seattle Gay News 11
From RuPaul to Kylie, these holiday albums will
put you in a festive mood
“O Holy Night,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” More on the modern
side are “Tinsel and Lights,” “Happy Xmas
(War is Over),” and “Shake Up Christmas.”
You need something to jam to while you’re
decorating that tree, right?
of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” “The
Christmas Song,” and a popular standard,
as evidenced by its many appearances this
year on holiday records, “O Holy Night.” If
traveling somewhere in the weeks ahead,
this will be a treat to listen to on the way.
Today is Christmas – LeAnn Rimes
Country star LeAnn Rimes dazzles on
her second holiday-themed record with a
set of seasonal favorites and
original entries. Those powerful pipes of
hers go to work on “Little Drummer Boy,”
“We Need a Little Christmas,” and “Auld
Lang Syne,” and they blend wonderfully on
duets with Gavin DeGraw (“Celebrate Me
Home”) and Aloe Blacc (“That Spirit of
Christmas”). When it’s time to make your
Christmas tree run, listen to this on the
drive.
Braxton Family Christmas – The
Braxtons
Oh, yes they did! The Braxton sisters –
Toni, Tamar, Trina, Tracy, Towanda – have
teamed up to release a Christmas album
that sounds more sultry than it oughta be,
but I wouldn’t expect anything different
from these R&B divas. The girls re-touch a
few classics, including an a cappella version
of “O Holy Night” and “Last Christmas,”
and a suave take on “Under My Christmas
Tree” featuring their brother Michael Braxton. Wine, candlelight, and this album =
stay-in night on Christmas Eve.
Kylie Christmas – Kylie Minogue
Pop singer Kylie Minogue finally puts
out a seasonal album, nearly 30 years into
by Albert Rodriguez
SGN A&E Writer
Rain or snow, the holiday season is here!
And with each year comes a slew of seasonal music ranging from amazing to pitiful,
and everything in between. Here are eight
newly released holiday albums that might
give your tree decorating party, shopping
trip, or cozy night by the fire a little boost.
Slay Belles – RuPaul
Singing isn’t one of RuPaul’s strong
suits, but sassiness is. And she infuses
much of it into a 20-track collection of
playful, non-traditional holiday tunes, from
“Merry Christmas, Mary” to “Christmas
Cookies” to an interlude titled “Do It For-
ever, Daddy.” The reality TV show hostess
surprises nicely on two numbers, “Brand
New Year” featuring Siedah Garrett and
a collaboration with LGBT performer Big
Freedia and Ellis Miah called “Jingle Dem
Bells.” If you’re planning to throw a boozy
holiday bash, preferably a kitschy affair
(i.e. ugly sweater party), I suggest this musical accompaniment.
Christmas in Tahoe – Train
Available exclusively on Amazon, this
15-song set by Grammy-winning group
Train is sprinkled with lots of good cheer.
Rarely is the Hawaiian classic “Mele Kalikimaka” included on seasonal recordings,
though it fits perfectly into this collection of
yuletide tunes, including “This Christmas,”
her career. The result is a fun, good sounding two-disc set that mixes classics – “Let
It Snow,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little
Christmas,” “It’s the Most Wonderful
Time of the Year” – with newer material,
from “Cried Out Christmas” to “White December.” Minogue shines best on a trio of
duets: “Christmas Wrapping” with Iggy
Pop, “Only You” with James Corsden, and
“1000 Degrees” with sister Dannii Minogue. If not for a gift, Kylie Christmas
makes a great stocking stuffer for a true
fan.
Magnolias & Mistletoe – Marc Broussard
Singer-songwriter Marc Broussard
pours his heart and soul into 10 songs on
his first holiday album. His version of “The
First Noel” is solid, as are his interpretations of “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Hark
the Herald Angel Sings,” and “Angels We
Have Heard on High.” The Lousiana native,
whose music is often described as “Bayou
Soul,” further satisfies with great renditions
12 Seattle Gay News
It’s a Holiday Soul Party – Sharon
Jones & the Dap Kings
November 20, 2015
Want some funk with that fruitcake?
Well, leave it to Grammy-nominated soul
ensemble Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings to
give the holidays a good kick in the pants.
The group includes a few usual suspects on
the 11-track record, such as “White Christmas,” “Silver Bells,” and “Silent Night,” but
do their own thing on “Funky Little Drummer Boy,” “Ain’t No Chimneys in the Projects,” and “Big Bulbs.” This album should
put a little swing in your par-tay!
MercyMe, It’s Christmas – MercyMe
A delightful new holiday album comes
from Adult Contemporary Christian band
MercyMe, who impress on 11 songs, most
notably on an uplifting, Coldplay-esque
rendition of “Joy” and a delicate arrangement of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”
Well-executed interpretations of “Have
a Holly, Jolly Christmas,” “Go Tell It On
the Mountain.” and “Do You Hear What I
Hear?” are also featured on the recording,
which is worth a listen.
November 20, 2015
Seattle Gay News 13
14 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
Best holiday travel destinations
by Shaun Knittel
Sometimes the best gift you can give
yourself – and those you love – is quick
getaway during the holiday season. While
some might dream of going south to Puerto
Vallarta, Mexico or Palm Springs, California for some fun in the sun, many of
us don’t have the coins or the paid vacation time to getaway, getaway – so quick
holiday trips around the Pacific Northwest
will have to do! Luckily for us all there are
plenty of amazing destinations during the
holidays to relax, rest, and recharge. Here’s
a list of a few places you can go that will
keep you coming back for more:
Leavenworth, WA: A short (2 hours
16 minutes) drive away from Seattle towards the middle of the state through the
Cascades (voted as one of the most scenic
drives in the states) will land you in Washington state’s very own German Town:
Leavenworth. In the winter, the roads are
kept clear, though you will want to check
the road reports before heading out (www.
wsdot.com/traffic/passes). The annual
Christmas Lighting Festival is a wonderful
introduction or reintroduction to little Bavaria in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
“The first three full weekends in December are filled to the brim with holiday
cheer and over half a million Christmas
lights,” say officials at www.Leavenworth.
org.
“On Friday evenings, live musical performances of your favorite Christmas songs
fill the streets, interrupted briefly at 4:30
p.m. for the arrival of St. Nickolaus at the
Front Street Gazebo. On Saturdays and
Sundays the festivities kick into full gear
at 12:00 p,m. with the arrival of Santa and
costumed holiday characters in a march
from the Festhalle to the Gazebo!”
Great food can be found in any one of
the many restaurants situated in the village
and lodging that ranges from less than $100
a night up to more than $400 a night can be
found at www.Hotel.com.
Victoria, BC: Many Seattleites know
that Victoria is a unique blend of old world
charm and new world experiences. As an
island destination, Victoria offers visitors
an escape from the hurried world. But what
some may not know is that Victoria, BC has
long been a Christmas holiday destination.
Boasting the mildest climate in Canada,
Victoria is green and beautiful year-round
(that certainly helps!). But come Christmas
time, Victoria transforms into what one
might imagine Santa’s North Pole would
look like. According to www.TourismVictoria.com/Christmas, the island is your
go-to place for fine dining, exquisite hotel
stays, and Christmas shopping.
Getting to Victoria, BC isn’t the easiest from Seattle, but it is no doubt one of
the most scenic and relaxing. If you want
to take your car, you can take the Black
Ball from Port Angeles to Victoria or from
Tsawwassen BC to Swartz Bay. But the easiest way is to book your seat on a Clipper
Ferry at www.ClipperVacations.com (be
sure to check out their package Ferry and
Christmas drink recipes
by Shaun Knittel
Christmas and cocktails go hand in
hand – or double-fist depending on how
annoyed you are with relatives, ha! Aside
from the regular unwritten laws of not
drinking too much to embarrass yourself
at the holiday Christmas Party for work
and remembering that when you’re tipsy it
is not the appropriate time to tell a family
member or fair-weather friend “what I really think of you is” the occasional holiday
alcohol beverage is a gift unto us all, aged
21 and older.
But not everyone is of legal drinking age
and our friends in recovery should be able
to enjoy Christmas drink recipes as well, so
here’s a list of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic recipes that, if made correctly, will
send your guests home with a warm tummy
and fond memories of a holiday party that
didn’t include terrible wine, opposite of festive cocktails, and sideways glances when
a guest asks, “Do you have anything nonalcoholic to drink?”
piece of cheesecloth, and add to pot. Stir in
brown sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Reduce heat, and keep warm. Serve hot.
(This can be served with or without alcohol).
Holiday Mulled Wine: Combine red
wine, orange slices, honey, brandy, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ginger in a slow
cooker. Cook on Low until wine is steam-
Hotel deals to make scheduling the perfect
getaway even easier) and you’ll be on your
way to Christmas paradise in no time!
Port Ludlow, WA: With its peaceful
bay, pristine views and sandy beach, Port
Ludlow attracts vacationers year-round
with promises of relaxation and wonder.
And Port Ludlow delivers every time. A totem pole overlooks the deep waters of the
protected bay and surrounding forest, creating stunning scenery and the marina offers rugged majestic views of the Olympic
Mountains from boat and land.
Located next to the marina, The Resort
at Port Ludlow (www.PortLudlowResort.
com) offers award winning, local farmfresh fare and luxury accommodations.
Port Ludlow is just a short ferry ride
from the Seattle Ferry Terminal to the
Bainbridge Ferry Terminal. From there,
by bus or car, cross over the Hood Canal
Bridge on Highway 104 and you’ll soon
be there. Travel time is estimated at about
three (worth every minute) hours.
Woodinville, WA: Woodinville, otherwise known as wine country, hosts travelers and wine tasters in cozy hotels and spas
that dot the country roads year-round. It’s
beautiful and so is the travel time – less
than 60 minutes from downtown Seattle
and you’re there.
Every December, for the past 11 years,
Mark Zembruski’s Woodinville Wonderland is a sight to behold. His entire yard
is covered in lighted trees, Santa’s elves,
jolly snowmen, candy canes and even a
Christmas train. Music fills the air and as
one might imagine, Christmas lights cover
everything. It’s a popular destination, especially for families. People travel from
all over the area to see it – Zembruski estimates between 50,000 and 75,000 visitors a
year.
For more information (including directions) go to www.WoodinvilleWonderland.
com.
Christmas Ship Festival, Seattle, WA:
Looking for a holiday activity just for the
night? Look no further than the Christmas
Ship Festival.
“Holiday traditions in the Northwest
start on the water with Argosy Cruises. Argosy Cruises’ Christmas Ship Festival is a
holiday celebration that has been a Pacific
Northwest tradition since 1949,” say Argosy Cruise officials on the festival website
www.ArgosyCruises.com/theme-cruises/
christmas-ship-festival. “Every year, the
Argosy Christmas Ship sails to different
Puget Sound waterfront communities, over
45 in total. Choirs onboard sing 20-minute
performances to these communities, all
broadcast via state-of-the-art speaker system. On shore, thousands of people gather
around roaring bonfires anticipating the arrival of the Christmas Ship.”
Opening night is November 28 and the
Christmas Ship Festival Finale happens
December 23. Visit www.ArgosyCruises.
com for the schedule and to purchase a ticket to ride.
with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and
ground nutmeg to serve. (This is an alcoholic beverage).
with the cinnamon sticks to look like antlers, and the cherry on the rim to look like a
nose. (This is an alcoholic beverage).
Apple Pie Shot: In a 2 ounce shot glass,
combine vodka and apple cider. Top with
a dollop of whipped cream and a pinch
of cinnamon. (This can be served with or
without alcohol).
Christmas Whiskey Slush: Stir pineapple juice, whiskey, and maraschino cherries with their juice in a large freezer-safe
container with a lid. Cover container tightly
and freeze slush overnight. Scoop the whiskey slush into old-fashioned glasses, mak-
Peppermint Punch: Place ice cream in
a punch bowl, and allow to soften slightly.
Blend in milk and ginger ale. Stir until
frothy. Serve at once, or keep chilled until ready to serve. Garnish the side of the
punch bowl with candy canes that dangle.
(This can be served with or without alcohol).
Christmas Cocoa: In a large holiday
mug pour 6 to 8 ounces of hot water over
instant cocoa; mix well until dissolved.
Spoon whipped cream onto cocoa; top with
candy sprinkles and a cherry. (This can be
served with or without alcohol).
Easy Christmas Cider: In a slow
cooker, combine apple cider and cinnamon
sticks. Wrap allspice and cloves in a small
Christmas Drinks – Pinterest
ing, 20 to 25 minutes. Serve hot. (This is an
alcoholic beverage).
Pumpkin Spice Martini: Pour vanilla
flavored vodka, Irish cream liqueur, and
pumpkin flavored liqueur into a cocktail
shaker over ice. Cover, and shake until the
outside of the shaker has frosted. Strain
into a chilled martini glass, and garnish
Poinsettias: Pour champagne into a
champagne flute, and top with cranberry
juice. (This is an alcoholic beverage).
ing sure each glass contains a cherry or
two. Top with lemon-lime soda. (This is an
alcoholic beverage).
Rudolph-Tini: Pour vodka, hazelnut liqueur, rum, and half-and-half into a
cocktail shaker over ice. Cover and shake
until the outside of the shaker has frosted.
Strain into a chilled martini glass; garnish
Dirty Snowball: In a shot glass, combine the coffee liqueur, crème de menthe,
and Irish cream liqueur. Drink all at once.
(This is an alcoholic beverage).
November 20, 2015
Seattle Gay News 15
16 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
November 20, 2015
Seattle Gay News 17
holiday events
dren) ask questions about gender or sexual
orientation, do you have the curriculum or
resources to quickly and comfortably answer them? Are you a caring community
member interested in being part of schools
that are welcoming for all? Are you a student interested in creating change? The educators of the WEA-LGBTQ Caucus invite
you and your unique voice to a conversation
about diverse and authentically inclusive
public schools. It’s 2015 and sexual orientation, gender identity, race, age, ability and
socioeconomic status do not exist separately – they exist simultaneously. That’s what
makes life beautiful, so let’s talk about it!
We’ll enjoy fun holiday treats and activities, plus we’ll all leave with free resources,
tools and information about upcoming opportunities. Students are super-welcome
– their opinions and experiences are key!
Light refreshments and activities begin at
6pm. Community organizations including The Safe Schools Coalition, GLSEN,
Equal Rights Washington, the WEA-LGBTQ Caucus and more will be engaging
us with important updates from their work.
RSVP to www.facebook.com/waglbtc/ or
email [email protected]
LGBT CABARET & MUSIC
Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales
“Unwrapped.” Nov. 25-Dec. 13. Seattle
Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. The
stars of 2014’s hit musical revue “The
Vaudevillians” are back with more tunes
and more laughs, this time with mistletoe!
Drag performers Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales return to the Leo K. Stage for a
special engagement that is perfect for those
looking for an off-kilter, off-color holiday
show. So drag yourself to the theatre for big
cheer! Tickets: $42-$62. www.seattlerep.
18 Seattle Gay News
org; 206-443-2222.
“The Dina Martina Christmas Show
2015 – ALL NEW!” Nov. 27 & 28 &
Dec. 4-31. Re-bar, 1114 Howell St. “The
Second Lady of Entertainment,” the most
surreal and hilarious chanteuse you’ll ever
find - Dina Martina! - returns to Seattle’s
Re-bar with an ALL-NEW holiday show.
Accompanied on the ivories by Stranger
Genius Award winner Mr. Chris Jeffries
and armed with truly legendary songs,
stories, costumes and audience gifts, Dina
Martina will give you one of the most festive, invigorating and ingeniously funny
evenings you’ve ever had! See why she’s a
favorite of John Waters, Matt Stone, Margaret Cho, Jennifer Coolidge, Graham Norton and many, many more! Get your tickets
now, because pretty soon they’ll be goin’
like hotcakes! Tickets: $22 advance; $25
at the door. www.brownpapertickets/com/
event/2226867. www.dinamartina.com
Seattle Men’s Chorus – “Home for
the Holidays.” Nov. 28 at 8pm & Nov. 29
at 2pm with special guest Tituss Burgess;
then Dec. 4, 8pm; Dec. 6, 7:30pm; Dec. 13,
7:30pm; Dec. 20, 7:30pm; Dec. 21, 7:30pm.
S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium,
Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St.
For his final yuletide concert, Dennis Coleman is wrapping up his naughty and nice
audience favorites, just for you! Come
home for the holidays to Seattle’s most
welcoming celebration of the season. The
proud voices of Seattle Men’s Chorus will
envelop you in harmony for an evening of
heartfelt holiday magic – sprinkled with a
festive pinch of fairy dust. We have presents under our tree for everyone: beloved
carols, soaring holiday classics, and the
cheeky antics you expect from SMC. Bring
your friends and family and share in the
tradition. Tickets: $25-$78. 206-388-1400;
www.SeattleMensChorus.org
November 20, 2015
Also, IN TACOMA: Dec. 3, 8pm.
Pantages Theater, 901 Broadway, Tacoma.
Tickets: $19-$69; 253-591-5894 or 1-800291-7593; BroadwayCenter.org and IN EVERETT: Dec. 19, 8pm. Civic Auditorium,
2415 Colby Ave., Everett. Tickets: $25-45;
206-388-1400; www.SeattleMensChorus.
org
Dec. 5, 7:30pm. Third Place Commons,
17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park.
Purple Passion Swing Band puts a little jazz
in the holidays with this all-ages, FREE admission concert on the Third Place Commons stage. Put on your dancing shoes and
join us in Lake Forest Park! www.rainbowcityband.com.
Russian Chamber Music Foundation
of Seattle presents piano legend Craig
Sheppard in concert. Dec. 4, 7pm. Frye
Art Museum, 704 Terry Ave. Performing “24 Preludes and Fugues, Op. 87, Nos.
1-12” by Dmitri Shostakovich. Don’t miss
this concert! Find out more at www.craigsheppard.net. Tickets: $20-adults; $10-seniors/students; kids free. Tickets: 425-8291345 www.russianchambermusic.org.
“Ham for the Holidays: Who’s Afraid
of Virginia Ham?” Dec. 3-20. (ASL interpreter date Dec. 10.) ACT Theatre, Falls
Theatre, 700 Union St. Merry. Mirthful.
Mad. Seattle comedians Lisa Koch and
Peggy Platt (aka Dos Fallopia) return to
ACT with their wackadoodle, gender-bending holiday sketch series. Platt and Koch
take you on a holiday outing packed with
devilish social satire, cockeyed musical
parodies, and more wigs than Lady Gaga:
“The Colonel and Shenille” play lounge hits
on a sightseeing river barge tour; “Three’s
Custody,” a ‘70s sitcom set in prison; “Presidential Family Feud,” features relatives of
political candidates; the tiny Sequim Gay
Men’s Chorus sing with glee; Country duo
The Spudds merge Dr. Seuss with Dynasty,
for How the Bitch Stole Christmas. “Ham
for the Holidays” contains adult humor and
themes recommended for ages 14+. Tickets: $20-$40. 206-292-7676; www.acttheatre.org.
“Homo for the Holidays.” Dec. 11-14,
Dec. 17-24, Dec. 26-27. West Hall, Odd
Fellows Building, 2nd Floor, 915 E. Pine
St. “Homo For The Holidays” is a seasonal spectacle guaranteed to make even the
most stubborn yuletides Gay! An unforgettable all-star cast of burlesque, cabaret,
dance, drag, and musical local luminaries
come together in a display of glittering
grandeur that’s been called “F*CKING
GREAT....F*CKING HILARIOUS!” by
Dan Savage of The Stranger.
“Homo For The Holidays” is a hearty
holiday fruitcake packed with rollicksome
reindeer, enticing elves, ghostly guests,
sexy snowstorms, agile angels, musical
Maccabees, and new ways to define coming
home. It’s not Christmas in July, it’s Pride
in December! Light your menorah, stuff
your stockings, and join your chosen family
in celebrating our favorite wintry holiday
of all, “Homo For The Holidays!” Tickets:
$25-$30 advance; $30-$35 at the door; RESERVE A SPECIAL FRONT ROW VIP
TABLE! $175/table (seats up to 4). Only six
tables available per show! Includes exclusive reserved seating in the front row, and a
special “Homo For The Holidays” gift bag
from BenDeLaCreme and the cast! www.
strangertickets.com.
Rainbow City Band’s Purple Passion
Swing Band – “Holiday Jazz Concert.”
“KPC’s “Campy Christmas.” Dec.
12, 8pm. Kirkland Performance Center,
350 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland. Fierce. Fabulous. Festive! A night of drag and holiday
November 20, 2015
Seattle Gay News 19
20 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
holiday events
traditions turned on their heads. KPC’s
“Campy Christmas” features the fabulous Seattle Men’s Chorus group Captain
Smartypants, and the Seattle Women’s
Chorus group Sensible Shoes. Captain
Smartypants, Sensible Shoes, Steve Thoreson dressed in drag as Divine and special
guests will bring the hilarious campy fun
with satirical versions of your favorite holiday songs. Hosted by David Hunter Koch.
At “Campy Christmas,” we don’t limit
stage time to the performers. Enjoy three
different contests: Ugly Sweaters, Lip Synching, and Dancing! Wear your ugliest
sweater or most Christmasy outfit and get
your voice and dance moves ready to dazzle
your friends and win fun prizes. 18+ show.
Tickets: $25. www.kpcenter.org; 425-8939900.
Rainbow City Band – “Once Upon A
Time.” Dec. 12, 7pm. Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway. Rainbow City
Band celebrates the season by bringing the
music of our favorite stories to life. Tickets:
$15 advance; $20 at the door; $12 seniors
and students; $5 kids 12 and under. www.
rainbowcityband.com.
Social Outreach Seattle (SOSea)
– “Holiday Cheer: Vol. 3 CD Release
Party & Benefit Concert.” Dec. 13, 4pm
doors; 5-7pm show. Neighbours Nightclub,
1509 Broadway – entrance in alley between
Broadway and Harvard Ave off E. Pike St.
A benefit for “From the Heart,” SOSea’s
LGBTQ Homeless Teen Outreach Program. Featuring some of Seattle’s best live
vocal performers. Tickets: $10 – includes 1
copy of “Holiday Cheer: Vol. 3.”
MUSIC
Byrd Ensemble – “Tudor Christmas.” Nov. 28, 7:30pm. St. Mark’s Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E. Join the Byrd Ensemble for their annual Christmas program
Thanksgiving weekend. Thomas Tallis’
Missa Puer natus est nobis frames this program of English carols and motets. Carols
are accompanied by harpsichordist Byron
Schenkman and the readings by actor Nurmi Husa. Tickets: $25-general admission;
$20-seniors (65+); $15-students. 206-3973627; www.ByrdEnsemble.com
Seattle Men’s Chorus – “Home for
the Holidays.” Nov. 28-Dec. 21. (See details above under LGBT Cabaret & Music.)
Roosevelt High School Jazz Band –
Duke Ellington’s and Billy Strayhorn’s
“Jazz Nutcracker.” Dec. 5, 7:30pm & Dec.
6, 2pm. Roosevelt High School Performing
Arts Theatre, 1410 NE 66th St. Roosevelt
High School Jazz Band’s phenomenal annual performance of Duke Ellington and
Billy Strayhorn’s “Jazz Nutcracker.” Tickets: $15-adults, $12-students and seniors.
206-201-1650; www.rooseveltjazz.org.
The Washingtonians – “Songs We
Know.” Dec. 5, 8pm & Dec. 6, 2pm. Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, Benaroya
Hall, 3rd Ave. & Union St. The Washingtonians – The Choir with a Sense of Humor
– reunites after a 12-year hiatus! Founded
and directed by local composer Scott
Warrender (Das Barbecu! Texas Chainsaw
Manicurist), “Songs We Know” will feature his uniquely original compositions and
arrangements. This beloved 60-member
choir is comprised largely of musical theater performers, and has a history of soldout shows. Tickets: $21-$46; 215-4747;
www.showtunestheatre.org.
Candlelight Concerts – “Pleasures of
Pan.” Dec. 6, 7pm. University Christian
Church, 4731 15th Ave. NE. Special guest
Mary Lynch, Seattle Symphony’s phenomenal new principal oboist, joins us for
an exploration of intimate chamber music
for winds, viola and keyboard from 18thcentury composers W.F. Bach and Janitsch
through the early 20th-century preoccupation with Pan and figures from antiquity.
(“Pleasures of Pan” presented six volumes
of flute music from three centuries in 1917.)
Suggested donation: $25, $20 or $15, with
series passes available for $50. www.candlelightseattle.org; 206-522-0169. Also on
Bainbridge, Whidbey and Orcas Islands
and in Stanwood in 2015!
Kirkland Choral Society – Bach at
Bastyr: Bach “Magnificat” with other
Songs of the Season. Dec. 6, 3pm. Bastyr University Chapel, 14500 Juanita Dr.
NE, Kenmore. Experience the power and
beauty of 100 voices lifted in song as Kirkland Choral Society takes the stage for their
annual holiday concert! Bach at Bastyr
features one of the greatest choral masterworks of all time: Johann Sebastian Bach’s
glorious “Magnificat,” plus an array of
modern-day choral gems – including works
by Gjeilo, Chilcott, and Lauridsen – and a
sprinkling of favorite holiday carols. First
performed by KCS fourteen years ago at
their premiere Bastyr concert, the “Magnificat” this time will be accompanied by
their outstanding partner orchestra, Philharmonia Northwest. Expertly blended in
Bastyr’s world-famous acoustics, this is a
performance you won’t want to miss. Tickets: $20-adult; $15-youth and senior. 1-800838-3006; http://www.brownpapertickets.
com/event/2405414.
Northwest Chamber Chorus – “Our
Dancing Day – with String Quartet,
Flute, and Percussion.” Dec. 6, 3pm &
Dec. 12, 7:30pm. Phinney Ridge Lutheran
Church, 7500 Greenwood Ave. “Tomorrow
shall be my dancing day” tells the story of
the season, with Jesus claiming Christmas
as his own Dancing Day. We celebrate the
season with music inspired by the idea of
dance – from Nigeria, colonial America,
Great Britain, France, and Spain. The
concert will feature Estampie Natalis by
Czech-American composer Vaclav Nelhybel, accompanied by strings, flute and
percussion. The instruments will join the
chorus for additional selections, including
our traditional sing-along.. Tickets: $23
November 20, 2015
general, Senior (62+) $18, Singer $18, Student ages 6-18 free. www.northwestchamberchorus.org; 206-523-1196.
Pacific Lutheran University – “A
Christmas Invitation.” Dec. 7, 7:30pm,
S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium,
Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St.
Ring in the season with a Christmas celebration that is sure to warm the heart and
lift your holiday spirit! This year’s program
will feature the world premiere of critically acclaimed composer JAC Redford’s “A
Christmas Invitation,” a three-movement
work composed for Choir of the West, University Chorale and our University Symphony Orchestra. The program will also include traditional Christmas favorites along
with festive carols sung by the audience.
Tickets: $17-32. www.BenaroyaHall.org;
206-215-4747; 1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall Box Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St.
Northwest University Concert Choir
– “Christmas Traditions.” Dec. 8,
7:30pm, S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St. The Northwest University Concert
Choir and Chamber Choir, joined by Coro
Amici and the Kirkland Civic Orchestra,
present Christmas Traditions! Now in its
seventh season, this established Christmas
concert celebrates the traditions of Christmas, featuring new carol arrangements and
traditional selections by Anton Bruckner,
Jan Sweelinck, Dan Forrest, John Rutter,
Craig Courtney and more, including a few
traditional sing-a-longs. Come and celebrate the true meaning of the season with
us! Tickets: $14-38. www.BenaroyaHall.
org; 206-215-4747; 1-866-833-4747; or
at Benaroya Hall Box Office, 3rd Ave. &
Union St.
Blind Boys of Alabama – “Talkin’
Christmas.” Dec. 9, 7:30pm, S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya
Hall, 3rd Ave. & University St. The Blind
Seattle Gay News 21
holiday events
Boys of Alabama are an American treasure.
This holiday season, the Blind Boys are
touring in support of their album, Talkin’
Christmas! (Sony Masterworks), their
second-ever Christmas album. This special concert will feature songs from Talkin’
Christmas! and the band’s previous Grammy-winning Christmas recording, Go Tell
It on the Mountain, along with other gems
from their 70-plus-year career. Celebrate
the holidays with living legends of gospel!
The Blind Boys of Alabama bring their
special Grammy-winning Christmas show
back to Benaroya Hall. Tickets: $30-102.
www.BenaroyaHall.org; 206-215-4747;
1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall Box
Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St.
Under the Streetlamp – “Holiday
Show.” Dec. 9, 7:30pm, Edmonds Center
for the Arts, 410 4th Ave. N, Edmonds. Under the Street Lamplamp, America’s hottest
new vocal group comprised of a former cast
of Jersey Boys, has an electrifying holiday
show featuring an evening of classic hits
from the American radio songbook along
with all the great holiday standards. This
modern-day Rat Pack with two top-rated
PBS specials still airing, will have the audience on their feet and saying it is the best
concert they have ever seen! Tickets: $44,
$39 & 34. 425-275-9595; www.ec4arts.org.
Pacific MusicWorks – Handel’s “Messiah.” Dec. 10, 8pm. Edmonds United
Methodist Church, 828 Caspers St., Edmonds. (See Dec. 12 & 13 listing below for
details.) Tickets: $45-general; $40-seniors;
$20-student; $10 UW student; youth (5-17)
free with accompanying ticketed adult.
708-6003; http://www.pacificmusicworks.
org/performances/handel-messiah/
22 Seattle Gay News
David Templeton Christmas Concert.
Dec. 11, 7:30pm, Illsley Ball Nordstrom
Recital Hall, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. &
University St. David Templeton returns
for a third time to Benaroya to celebrate
Christmas with his passionate piano music and the release of a new holiday album
entitled First Snow. David brings to the
stage a level of performance that is vibrant,
rich and satisfying. The New Yorker calls
him “One of the most accomplished and
original new talents to hit the keyboards
... thoroughly enjoyable.” Mr. Templeton
debuted at Carnegie Hall in 2011 where he
performed compositions from his sixth CD,
Under the Willow Tree. He is now releasing his seventh album entitled First Snow
at the beautiful Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall this December.
He will perform a full range of traditional
Christmas songs as well as some of his own
compositions on piano and guitar. Join David on Dec. 11 for what promises to be a
magical night filled with Christmas songs
and traditional holiday cheer. This event is
presented by Mason Ridge. Tickets: $52192. www.BenaroyaHall.org; 206-2154747; 1-866-833-4747; or at Benaroya Hall
Box Office, 3rd Ave. & Union St.
Pacific MusicWorks – Handel’s “Messiah.” Dec. 11, 8pm. Emmanuel Episcopal
Church, 4400 86th Ave., Mercer Island.
(See Dec. 12 & 13 listing below for details.)
Tickets: $45-general; $40-seniors; $20-student; $10 UW student; youth (5-17) free
with accompanying ticketed adult. 7086003; http://www.pacificmusicworks.org/
performances/handel-messiah/
The Esoterics – Sviridov: Celebrating the Centennial of Composer Georgy
Sviridov. Dec. 11 & 12, 8pm. 12/11 at St.
Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 4805 NE
November 20, 2015
45th St. 12/12 at West Seattle Holy Rosary
Catholic Church, 4210 SW Genessee St.
In the final program of their 22nd concert
season, The Esoterics will celebrate the
life and music of the neo-Romantic Russion composer Georgy Svirdov with an unprecedented series of concerts in both Seattle and Tacoma. Founding Director Eric
Banks has researched and published his
own editions of Sviridov’s collected choral works, with complete transliterations
of every text in the program. The Esoterics
has expanded to 50 singers to present this
concert of luxurious and majestic music
inspired by folksong, poetry of the Silver
Age, and the Russian Orthodox liturgy.
See The Esoterics website for complete
details on their remarkable program. Tickets: $25 at the door ($22 in advance); $18
for students, seniors, the un(der)employed,
and the differently-abled ($15 in advance).
http://www.theesoterics.org/ (Also Dec. 13,
7:30pm at Christ Episcopal Church, 310 N
“K” St., Tacoma.)
Seattle Choral Company – “Peace on
Earth.” Dec. 11 & 12, 8pm. Saint Mark’s
Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E. “Peace on
Earth” will take you to the realm of inner
peace at Christmastime. Come with family and friends and enjoy holiday music
for choir, strings, harp, and guest soloists.
Non-reserved single tickets: $25. Youth
6 and over and students with valid ID are
admitted FREE at the door. 206-3631100; http://www.brownpapertickets.com/
event/2080998; www.seattlechoralcompany.org;.
Northwest Boy Choir – “A Festival of
Lessons & Carols.” Dec. 11-22. (See complete schedule below.)
The Northwest Boychoir proudly presents its 37-year annual concert series featuring eight regional performances in De-
cember. These holiday concerts showcase
the 90-member combined chorus of the
Northwest Boychoir and Vocalpoint! Seattle.
Patterned after the Christmas Eve observance at King’s College in Cambridge,
England, A Festival of Lessons & Carols
has become a holiday tradition for thousands of families in the Puget Sound region. This classical performance consists
of nine holiday readings, each followed by
a traditional carol performed by the choir,
and another carol sung by the choir and audience.
A Festival of Lessons & Carols concerts
are open to the public at various venues
throughout the Puget Sound Region and
all seating is reserved. Advance tickets are
available through the Northwest Choirs at
206-524-3234 or online at www.nwboychoir.org. These concerts often draw soldout audiences. Advance ticket purchases
are encouraged.
COMPLETE SCHEDULE: Fri. 12/11,
7:30pm @ Plymouth Church, 1217 Sixth
Ave. | Sat. 12/12, 7:30pm @ Trinity Lutheran Church, Lynnwood | Sun. 12/13, 7pm @
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church | Fri. Dec.
18, 7:30pm @ Holy Rosary Church, 4210
SW Genessee St. | Sat. 12/19, 7:30pm @ St.
Mark’s Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E. | Sun.
12/20, 7pm @ St. Alphonsus Church, 5816
15th Ave. NW | Mon. 12/21, 7:30pm @ St.
Mark’s Cathedral, 1245 10th Ave. E. | Tue.
12/23, 7:30pm @ S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave.
& University St.
Bellevue Chamber Chorus – “Season
of Wonder.” Dec. 12, 7:30pm @ Bothell
United Methodist Church, 18515 92nd Ave
NE, Bothell. (See Dec. 20 listing below for
details.) Tickets: $20-adults, $15-seniors,
$10-students, and $5-children 12 and under. 425-881-0445; www.BellevueCham-
berChorus
Northwest Associated Arts – “Joy!”
Dec. 12, 7:30pm & Dec. 13, 2pm. Highline
Performing Arts Center, 401 S. 152nd St.,
Burien. The entire Burien community will
come together to celebrate as the NWAA
musical family presents its fun-filled
Christmas Concert extravaganza, featuring all seven of our ensembles and nearly
200 singers. ChoralSounds, SilverSounds,
and our youth choruses will put joy into
your family’s season as we bring you cherished holiday song traditions from around
the world. Songs from Spain, South Africa,
France, Latvia, and England combine with
your festive and familiar favorites! Tickets:
$25 reserved; $20 festival seating; 17 & under FREE with adult ticket holder. www.
nwassociatedarts.org; 206-246-6040.
Northwest Chamber Chorus – “Our
Dancing Day – with String Quartet,
Flute, and Percussion.” Dec. 12, 7:30pm.
Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, 7500
Greenwood Ave. (See Dec. 6 listing above
for details.) Tickets: $23 general, Senior
(62+) $18, Singer $18, Student ages 6-18
free. www.northwestchamberchorus.org;
206-523-1196.
Pacific MusicWorks – Handel’s “Messiah.” Dec. 12 & 13, 8pm. Meany Theater,
UW Campus. Pacific MusicWorks will be
performing this piece for the first time in
Seattle in various venues. We will take a
revolutionary approach, as practiced by
Handel, with four of our favorite vocal
soloists “embedded” in the University of
Washington Chamber Singers on the Meany stage. Handel always listed his vocal soloists as the first voice of each part, with the
strong implication that they led the choral
singing as well as the solos. Just as Handel
has learned the techinique of opposing solo
strings with the full orchestra from Corelli’s Concerti Grossi, so the solist/choir combination offers a vastly increased palette of
textures. The artists: Stephen Stubbs, conductor; Teresa Wakim, soprano; Reginald
Mobley, counter-tenor; Zachary Wilder,
tenor; Kevin Deas, bass-baritone. With the
University of Washington Chamber Singers
and Pacific MusicWorks Orchestra. Tickets: $45-general; $40-seniors; $20-student;
$10 UW student; youth (5-17) free with accompanying ticketed adult.
Rainbow City Band – “Once Upon A
Time.” Dec. 12, 7pm. Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway. Rainbow City
Band celebrates the season by bringing the
music of our favorite stories to life. Tickets:
$15 advance; $20 at the door; $12 seniors
and students; $5 kids 12 and under. www.
rainbowcityband.com.
Seattle Pro Musica – “Christmas
with Seattle Pro Musica – a Family Holiday Concert.” Dec. 12, 3pm, Seattle First
Baptist Church, 1111 Harvard Ave. Bring
the whole family for a joyful concert of
traditional carols, holiday stories, and an
audience sing-along. Students from area
schools will join us in this one-hour concert
that’s perfect for children and their families! Tickets: $25 prime, $15 general, $10
senior & student, $5 child (under 13). Call
Brown Paper Tickets’ 24-hour hotline at
1-800-838-3006, or call Seattle Pro Musica
directly at 206-781-2766.
Seattle Pro Musica – “Northern
Lights – Music of the Baltics and Scandinavia.” Dec. 12, 7:30pm. Seattle First
Baptist Church, 1111 Harvard Ave. Northern Lights showcases music that evokes the
shimmering beauty of the aurora borealis.
The program spans a thousand years of
Baltic and Nordic choral music, from medi-
eval chant and traditional carols to contemporary works by Einojuhani Rautavaara,
Jaakko Mäntyjärvi, Cyrillus Kreek, and
Veljo Tormis. The centerpiece is “Northern Lights” by Ēriks Ešenvalds, one of
today’s most sought-after young composers. With voices, chimes, and tuned water
goblets, Ešenvalds recreates the wonder of
the Northern Lights in sound. Tickets: $35
prime, $25 general, $18 senior, $12 student.
Call Brown Paper Tickets’ 24-hour hotline
at 1-800-838-3006, or call Seattle Pro Musica directly at 206-781-2766.
Candlelight Concerts – “Festive Baroque with the Sans Souci Ensemble.”
Dec. 13, 7pm. University Christian Church,
4731 15th Ave. NE. The “Fifth Brandenburg Concerto,” other festive baroque concerti and a quartet for flute and strings by
W.A. Mozart, with the Sans Souci Ensemble including flutist Jeffrey Cohan, violinists Sarah Hall and Stephen Creswell, violist Roxanna Patterson, and harpsichordist
Michael Refvem. Suggested donation: $25,
$20 or $15, with series passes available for
$50. www.candlelightseattle.org; 206-5220169.
Cascade Symphony Orchestra –
“Holiday Pops.” Dec. 13, 7:30pm. Edmonds Center for the Arts, 410 Fourth
Ave. N., Edmonds. (See Dec. 13 & 14 listing below for details.) Tickets: $27-adults,
$22-senior, $15-student w/ID, $10-youth
12 & under. 425-275-9595; http://www.edmondscenterforthearts.org/; http://cascadesymphony.org/
The Esoterics – Sviridov: Celebrating the Centennial of Composer Georgy
Sviridov. Dec. 13, 7:30pm at Christ Episcopal Church, 310 N “K” St., Tacoma. (See
Dec. 11 & 12 listing above for details.)
Tickets: $25 at the door ($22 in advance);
November 20, 2015
$18 for students, seniors, the un(der)employed, and the differently-abled ($15 in
advance). http://www.theesoterics.org/
Northwest Associated Arts – “Joy!”
Dec. 13, 2pm. Highline Performing Arts
Center, 401 S. 152nd St., Burien. (See Dec.
12 & 13 listing above for details.) Tickets:
$25 reserved; $20 festival seating; 17 & under FREE with adult ticket holder. www.
nwassociatedarts.org; 206-246-6040.
Pacific MusicWorks – Handel’s “Messiah.” Dec. 13, 8pm. Meany Theater, UW
Campus. (See Dec. 12 & 13 listing above
for details.) Tickets: $45-general; $40-seniors; $20-student; $10 UW student; youth
(5-17) free with accompanying ticketed
adult.
Strawberry Theatre Workshop – Jose
Gonzalez Trio plays “Charlie Brown
Christmas.” Dec. 13, 6pm. Cornish Playhouse Studio (formerly Intiman Theatre),
201 Mercer St. “Linus and Juicy” is back!
The Jose “Juicy” Gonzales Trio returns to
Strawberry Theatre Workshop for the jazziest Christmas party in Seattle. Groove to
the fresh sounds of Vince Guaraldi’s holiday classic, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,”
played in its entirety. Now in its fifth year,
Charlie has jammed its way onto the list of
the region’s most hip holiday traditions. Sip
your cocktails at the Cornish Playhouse.
Dress in your favorite jazz threads and step
back into 1965, when the music was fly, and
Snoopy was still just a drawing on the comics page. Featuring a silent auction of holiday gifts, and the uniquely fine chocolates
of Margaret Savas. All proceeds to benefit
Strawberry Theatre Workshop programs
for 2016. Tickets: $36, but 25% off between
now and Thanksgiving at http://www.
brownpapertickets.com/event/2412843.
Seattle Gay News 23
24 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
snowshoeing minutes from town.
Get Your Shopping Done and Relax:
The town’s unique shops make Christmas
shopping a breeze, and cozy restaurants
warm guests from the inside out. Don’t
forget numerous opportunities to taste local and regional wines in downtown tasting
rooms.
The Details:
Each Friday the first 3 weekends of
December: The Bavarian village is illuminated. Catch live music in the Front Street
Gazebo from 4-9pm, with the exciting arrival of Saint Nikolas at 4:30pm.
Each Saturday and Sunday the first
3 weekends of December: Live music be-
Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival – Photo by Brian Munoz
Leavenworth Christmas
Lighting Festival
December 4-6, 11-13, 18-20
Bavarian wonderland is the ultimate
holiday destination
Over half a million lights and ttons of
holiday cheer sparkle in Washington’s Bavarian Village the first three weekends
of December. With all there is to see, do,
taste and experience, it’s no wonder Leavenworth is described as “America’s Ultimate Holiday Town” drawing over 25,000
visitors each Christmas Lighting Festival
weekend!
Get in the Mood: The voices of carolers mingle with the laughter of children
sledding as Christmas characters like Santa, Mrs. Claus and Father Christmas greet
festival-goers. Little ones can follow the
“cookie-crawl” while grown-ups enjoy a
glass of Glühwein after finding the perfect
holiday gift. Hail a horse drawn carriage
and enjoy the smell of roasting chestnuts
while brass bands and carolers ring out the
sounds of the season.
This year “The Voice” contestants
Brenna Yaeger, George Horga Jr., and Siahna Im will be joining us during our
Christmas Lighting ceremony to sing Silent
Night and Joy to the World!
Get Tickets and Passes: Fabulous arts
and culture abound this holiday season with
plays, harp concerts, choir performances,
hand bell ringers, concerts and musicals.
But Wait.... Yes there is more – so
much we can’t include it all here. Dog
sleds, the National Guard Band, and a
Living Nativity just to name a few! You
will just have to visit! Or, you can contact
us for all the glorious details. If festival
crowds leave you weak in the knees, come
over midweek or weekends thru February.
We are the village of lights all days of the
week, and we’re the ultimate destination for
Christmas Lighting!
For more information about the Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival or
the Leavenworth area call 509-548-5807 or
Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival – Photo courtesy of Icicle TV
The surrounding mountains beckon with
downhill skiing and snowboarding at Mission Ridge and Stevens Pass: amazing Ski
and Stay packages are available. There’s a
tubing park, sleigh rides, and Nordic trails/
gins at 11:00am and plays all day. Santa,
Mrs. Claus and Father Christmas arrive at
the Gazebo at noon in a horse-drawn carriage surrounded by a cast of Christmas
characters! Food booths and traditional
Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival – Photo by Brian Munoz
Glühwein are on hand. At 4:30pm the
Lighting Ceremony begins, with countdown to illumination!
November 20, 2015
visit www.leavenworth.org.
Courtesy of the Leavenworth Chamber
of Commerce
Seattle Gay News 25
Holiday events
Cascade Symphony Orchestra –
“Holiday Pops.” Dec. 13 & 14, 7:30pm.
(Pre-concert lecture at 6:30pm.) Edmonds
Center for the Arts, 410 Fourth Ave. N., Edmonds. Featuring “Euphonium” by Adam
Frey, “March from Babes in Toyland” by
Victor Herbert, “Christmas Festival Anderson,” “Jazz Legato,” and “Bugler’s Holiday” by Anderson, “Chanukah Medley” by
Marcus and R. Seletsky (arr.), Hallelujah
Chorus from “Messiah” by Handel. Tickets: $27-adults, $22-senior, $15-student w/
ID, $10-youth 12 & under. 425-275-9595;
http://www.edmondscenterforthearts.org/;
http://cascadesymphony.org/
Ensign Symphony & Chorus “Alleluia.” Dec. 14 &15, 7:30pm, S. Mark Taper
Foundation Auditorium, Benaroya Hall,
3rd Ave. & University St. Looking for a
beautiful Christmas concert that celebrates
the reason for the season? Look no further!
“Alleluia,” presented by Ensign Symphony
& Chorus with guest pianist and recording artist Jennifer Thomas, promises to
both entertain and inspire. You’ll hear traditional favorites like “Joy to the World,”
“O Come All Ye Faithful” and “The First
Noel.” You’ll also hear brand new tunes
from Jennifer Thomas’s upcoming album
Winter Symphony, recently recorded together with Ensign Chorus at Bastyr University. Audience members regularly comment that the annual Ensign Symphony &
Chorus concert is their favorite way to start
the season. Make it your tradition too!
The new Ensign Symphony & Chorus
fills a unique space in the panoramic performing arts scene of the Puget Sound region. Some 150 Ensign singers and instrumentalists, led by Rob Archibald and Fabio
Pirola, perform a broad repertoire of joyous
music in the tradition of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, BBC Symphony Chorus and
Westminster Symphonic Choir, infusing
life-long university, church and community ensemble training with a passion that
is profoundly moving. Tickets: $16-$36.
Northwest Baroque Masterworks –
“Praetorius Christmas Vespers.” Dec.
16, 7:30pm at Bastyr University Chapel,
14500 Juanita Dr. NE, Kenmore; Dec. 18,
8pm at St. James Cathedral, 804 9th Ave.
David Fallis, artistic director of the Toronto Consort, leads the Northwest Baroque
Masterworks ensemble of thirteen vocal
soloists, strings, winds, brass, lutes, organ,
and full choir in festive cantatas to fill the
Bastyr University Chapel and St. James Cathedral with sounds of the holiday season.
The performance recreates the joyful celebration of Christmas Vespers as it
might have been heard under the direction
of Michael Praetorius in a 17th-century
North German Lutheran church. “Praetorius Christmas Vespers,” a Northwest
Baroque Masterworks performance, is
presented in collaboration with Early Music Vancouver, Portland Baroque Orchestra, and Victoria’s Early Music Society of
the Islands. Tickets: $39, $25 for students/
under 25. www.earlymusicguild.org; 206325-7066.
Nora Michaels & Victor Janusz sing
“CHARISMA NOEL!” with the Victor Janusz Quartet (Bassist Dave Solonen,
Accordion/Percussionist Rob Witmer,
Saxman MD Dixon, with Mr. Janusz at
the piano). Dec. 16, 9pm show (8:30pm
door). Egan’s Ballard Jam House, 1707
NW Market St. Singers Nora Michaels
and Victor Janusz – “together again for the
very second time!” – will offer an intimate
concert “Singing Only the Holiday Songs
They LOVE.” Fans of the two Northwest-
26 Seattle Gay News
based vocalists know this event will mean
an eclectic journey from standards, jazz,
the blues, and Janusz’ perennial favorite holiday near-classics (“FRUITCAKE
BLUES,” “C3 Queens” and “Christmas in
the Bahamas,” to name a few) served with
a hearty dose of story-telling (Childhood
Tales of Xmas-Trauma are NOT included).
Tickets: $15 cover. Seating is limited. Advance tickets strongly recommended. www.
brownpapertickets.com/event/2465994.
The Coats Annual Holiday Show.
Dec. 18 & 19, 7:30pm, Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave.
& Union St. Nationally acclaimed vocal
band The Coats present their annual holiday show with special guests, making it an
evening never to forget! Tickets: $39.50.
of Wonder.” Dec. 19, 7:30pm. St. Luke’s
Lutheran Church, 3030 Bellevue Way NE,
Bellevue. (See Dec. 20 listing below for
details.) Tickets: $20-adults, $15-seniors,
$10-students, and $5-children 12 and under. 425-881-0445; www.BellevueChamberChorus
Orchestra Seattle/Seattle Chamber
Singers (OSSCS) – Handel’s “Messiah.”
Dec. 19, 7:30pm. Seattle First Free Methodist Church, 3200 3rd Ave. W; Dec. 20,
3pm. Everett First Presbyterian Church,
2936 Rockefeller Ave, Everett. No other
work has become more closely associated
with OSSCS than Georg Frideric Handel’s
most celebrated oratorio, “Messiah.” For
four decades, audiences have delighted in
our complete and uncut performances. This
season we offer two performances: one in
Seattle and a second in Everett. Tickets:
$25 general, $20 senior, $10 full-time student, FREE youth 7-17. www.osscs.org/
concerts; www.brownpapertickets.com;
1-800-838-3006.
of Wonder.” Dec. 12, 7:30pm @ Bothell
United Methodist Church, 18515 92nd Ave
NE, Bothell; Dec. 19, 7:30pm @ St. Luke’s
Lutheran Church, 3030 Bellevue Way NE,
Bellevue; Dec. 20, 3pm @ Prospect Congregational UCC, 1919 E. Prospect. BCC
kicks off its 32nd season with the 2015 holiday program “Season of Wonder.” Brighten
your seasonal celebrations with wondrous
sacred and secular music for winter and
the holidays, as we bring you a sumptuous
setting of “The Holly and the Ivy” by the
popular Norwegian choral composer Ola
Gjeilo, the haunting “’Tis Winter Now”
by Paul Hailey, and “Winter Sun” by Canadian composer Don Macdonald, sure to
inspire visions of glittering snowscapes
and the aurora borealis. We’re also excited
to perfom an exquiste setting of “There Is
No Rose” by composer and former Seattle
Times classical music critic, Melinda Bargreen. Plus, you’ll hear beautiful works for
chorus and classical guitar by Alf Houkum
(“The Rune of Hospitality”) and Jeffrey
Van (“O Be Joyful”), featuring critically
acclaimed and nationally-known guitarist
Michael Nicolella (www.nicolella.com),
also on the faculty at Cornish College of
the Arts. Tickets: $20-adults, $15-seniors,
$10-students, and $5-children 12 and under. 425-881-0445; www.BellevueChamberChorus
Candlelight Concerts – “Jazzin’
with the Classics by Candlelight for
Christmas 2015.” Dec. 20, 7pm. University Christian Church, 4731 15th Ave. NE.
Three artists and friends from classical and
jazz realms meld their musical perspectives in this unusual collaboration and festive celebration of the Yuletide season – in
a brand new program for 2015! Artists in-
November 20, 2015
clude: flutist Jeffrey Cohan; multi-talented
Martin Lund on piano, clarinet and flute;
and soprano Linda Tsatsanis. Suggested
donation: $25, $20 or $15, with series passes available for $50. www.candlelightseattle.org; 206-522-0169. Also on Bainbridge,
Whidbey and Orcas Islands and in Stanwood in 2015!
Earshot Jazz – 26th Annual “Concert
of Sacred Music” by Duke Ellington.
Dec. 26, 7:30pm. Town Hall Seattle, 1119
Eighth Ave. at Seneca St. Ellington’s wonderful “Sacred Music” is both serious and
swinging. It is a reverent and hip body of
jazz composition, written late in his career,
for jazz big band, vocal and instrumental
soloists, gospel choir, and tap dancers.
For the past 25 years Earshot Jazz has
presented an annual concert of Ellington’s
Sacred Music. The concert features the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra, co-directed
by Michael Brockman and Clarence Acox,
guest vocalists Stephen Newby, Nichol
Veneé Eskridge, and the NW Chamber
Chorus, and special guest tap dancer Alex
Dugdale. Tickets: $38-$19 preferred; $28$14 general. https://earshot.secure.force.
com/ticket/#sections_a0F1a0000023pHWEAY; 206-547-6763
Byron Schenkman & Friends –
“Anna Madgalena Bach Notebook.” Dec.
27, 7pm. Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital
Hall, Benaroya Hall, 3rd Ave. & Union St.
2015-2016 marks the third season of exciting programming for Byron Schenkman
& Friends. Schenkman again collaborates
with friends to bring an exciting new baroque and classical chamber music series
to Benaroya Hall. At the darkest time of
year we offer an intimate glimpse into the
private musical world of the Bach family, including works copied out by Anna
Magdalena Bach as well as compositions
presented to her by her husband, Johann
Sebastian Bach. This program features
Linda Tsatsanis (soprano), Nathan Whittaker (cello) and Byron Schenkman (harpsichord). Tickets: $42 general, $38 senior,
$10 student. www.byronschenkman.com;
206-215-4747.
Cappella Romana – “Epiphany: Medieval Byzantine & Old-Roman Chant.”
Jan. 9, 8pm. Blessed Sacrament Church,
5050 8th Ave NE. This program features
Cappella Romana’s specialist ensemble
of Byzantine cantors singing a program of
Medieval hymns and psalms for the feast of
Epiphany. This performance includes examples of Byzantine chant in Greek from
Hagia Sophia and from Palestine, and selections in Latin of Old Roman Chant sung
directly from 11th-century manuscripts.
Tickets: $44-$22 with student/senior discount. www.cappellaromana.org; 503-2368202.
THEATRE & DANCE
A Charlie Brown Christmas. Dec.
3-26. Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St. A
Christmas Tradition Reinvented – Charlie
Brown is depressed by the never-ending
commercialism surrounding the holidays.
Thankfully, Linus is there to help him find
the true meaning of Christmas in this musical adaptation of the cartoon classic. Tickets: www.taproottheatre.org; 206-781-9707.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Gregory A. Falls. Nov.
27-Dec. 30. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St.
Join us for a Seattle tradition: a ripping
good telling of the classic story of Ebenezer
Scrooge, the curmudgeonly businessman
who requires the intervention of a few spectral guides to understand the true meaning
of Christmas and life. Well over a century
after its writing, Dickens’ classic tale of
hope and redemption continues to remind
us what’s really worth celebrating – at the
holidays, or any time! Enhance your experience with Inside A Christmas Carol: an
exclusive backstage tour. Tickets: www.acttheatre.org; 206-292-7676.
A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play.
Fri/Sat: Dec. 4-5 & 11-12, 7:30pm & Sun:
Dec. 6 & 13, 3pm. Twelfth Night Productions, Kenyon Hall, 7904 35th Ave. SW.
Twelfth Night Productions (TNP) is proud
to present A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio
Play this holiday season. TNP’s Holiday
Radio plays have become an annual tradition for community members seeking to
revel in holiday cheer with their friends and
family.
This holiday season, join us for a retelling of the classic A Christmas Carol,
brought to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. Experience the magic of season as
the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and
Future visit our hero Ebenezer Scrooge to
teach him about generosity, love and the
power of giving. As always, our radio program will begin with an original short featuring Dick Doubleheart and the Twelfth
Night Comedy Mystery Playhouse, written by John Ruoff. Our cast of talented
Radio players also includes our incredible
Foley (sound effects) actors, the wonderful
1929 Wurlitzer Pipe Organ, and our Fabulous Mistletones sharing traditional carols before the show. Tickets: $18-general;
$15-students/seniors. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2412281 and at the
door.
A Christmas Twist. Nov. 27-Dec. 20.
Fri.-Sat., 8pm; Sun.-2pm. Burien Actors
Theatre, 14501 4th Ave SW, Seattle. Looking for a little cheekiness in your holiday
theater-going? Seven actors bring 18 characters to life in A Christmas Twist, an irreverent mash-up of Charles Dickens’
A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist. A
Christmas Twist tosses Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist into a highspirited blender with plenty of pop culture and an absurd cast of characters that
includes Little Orphan Annie. The result
is a humorous parody of Christmas stories about the poor versus the rich that still
spreads the spirit of the season. Combining
the energy and spontaneous humor of improv with clever satire, this show brings to
mind a Mel Brooks creation. Tickets: $20
general admission, $17 seniors and $10 students. 206-242-5180; http://burienlittletheatre.org/
A Holiday of Errors. Dec. 4-20. Sound
Theatre Company, 12th Ave Arts, 1620
12th Ave. Christmas Eve, 1593. Marlowe
was dead to begin with. Between writer’s
block, a plague-ridden London and the theatre-hating Puritans, William Shakespeare
faces the end of his career. Then a ghostly
visit from the late Christopher Marlowe
and a last minute invitation to perform for
Queen Elizabeth give the Bard a flicker of
hope. But the not-so-virgin queen has some
saucy plans of her own. A dash of Richard III, a dose of A Christmas Carol and
a dollop of Twelfth Night add up to a real
Holiday of Errors! General admission: $25,
Student (with ID): $15. Tickets: http://www.
brownpapertickets.com/event/2412806
“A(n Improvised) Christmas Carol.”
Nov. 17-Dec. 13. Unexpected Productions,
1428 Post Alley (down the cobblestone alley or down the stairs next to Rachel the Pig
at the Pike Place Market). We all know the
story of Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. Or do we? Unexpected Productions brings back its holiday favorite, “A(n
Improvised) Christmas Carol”. Based on
audience suggestions, our improvisers bend
and twist Charles Dickens’ tale of Ebenezer
Scrooge in all sorts of hilarious directions
– and each show is different. Where does
November 20, 2015
Seattle Gay News 27
28 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
Baby, it’s hot outside:
For a sunny and adventurous holiday, head to
Key West
Danger Charters – Albert Rodriguez
by Albert Rodriguez
SGN A&E Writer
Looking for a way to not freeze this
holiday season? Go somewhere warm.
That somewhere could be Key West, a literal hotspot for many snowbirds and vacationers, including a substantial number of
LGBT visitors who visit the Floridian island city regularly. A dark blue dot in a red
state, this tropical destination has long been
accepting of Gays and Lesbians, those who
come and go, and those who stay. There are
many festivals and unique events that take
place in Key West throughout the calendar
year, but I recommend just going for the
sun and adventure, and also to escape the
holiday madness. On my second trip to Key
West this summer, I spent many hours relaxing at my resort, though I also did some
exploring and went out into the water; it
was a laid back, stress-free vacation with
a very loose agenda, and that was exactly
what I needed.
Here’s information that might come in
handy if traveling to Key West. For trip
planning assistance, visit fla-keys.com.
GETTING TO KEY WEST
Key West and Seattle are on opposite
corners of the nation, so if you’ve ever
wanted to embark on a cross- country trip,
this is it. The city is at the southernmost
point of the continental United States and
requires at least 2 flights from Western
Washington. The simplest itinerary would
be a non-stop flight to either Miami (American Airlines) or Ft. Lauderdale (Alaska
Airlines) from Sea-Tac – both about 5.5
to 6 hours long – and then a quick 45 minute to an hour flight to Key West. You can
also connect through Houston (United
Airlines) and Atlanta (Delta Air Lines), if
you’re wanting to accrue or redeem miles
on those airlines. The short trek between
mainland Florida and The Keys can also be
made by rental car, or bus; I found a great
last-minute deal by charter bus for $30 (one
way). Greyhound and other bus service is
available directly to Key West from Miami
International Airport as well; expect a 3
to 4-hour road trip with beautiful scenery
on both sides – Atlantic and Gulf – of the
Overseas Highway, where you’ll cross over
42 bridges before arriving at Key West.
STAY
I’d never stayed at a Gay resort before,
or an exclusive male hotel, which is exactly what the Equator Resort is. Located
on Fleming Street in the Old Town district, amongst a collective of residential
homes, lovely B&Bs, small businesses,
central library, and a 5-minute walk from
bars, restaurants, and the main tourist center, this 34-room resort was ever so convenient. Rooms are tastefully decorated
with comfortable beds and fresh linens,
wicker chests and drawers, reading lamps,
flatscreen TVs, mini fridges, microwaves,
and h2o+ bath essentials. Accommodations include daily continental breakfast
with Starbucks Coffee, complimentary
daily Happy Hour, unlimited filtered water and ice, and use of the property’s two
swimming pools. The club music playing
nearly all day on the outside speakers coupled with Happy Hour gatherings at the bar
by one of the pools, which my room overlooked, made it a tad noisy at times, though
overall it was pleasant and calm from
morning until night. Aside from the local
television stations and cable offerings, the
TV programming also included about 4 or
5 Gay porn channels. Staff was helpful and
fellow guests varied in age. The Equator
Resort is a clothing optional place to stay,
so don’t be surprised to see others lounging
around the pool completely naked. For further information, or to make reservations
go to equatorresort.com.
LGBT RESOURCES AND EVENTS
A stroll to the Gay Key West Visitor
Center, operated by the Key West Business
Guild, is an excellent place to start your
vacation, if nothing else to know where
it is and pick up a scattering of publications, brochures, and information catered
to LGBT travelers. The staff is more than
happy to assist with any questions regarding the area, or to recommend where to
go, what to see, and if interested, provide
a brief history of the city. A bonus to dropping by the visitor center is free admission
to the Tennessee Williams Exhibit, situated
at the back of the building, that includes
personal photographs of the playwright
with his partner, original posters from local productions of his works, playbills, and
a typewriter he used at his Key West home.
The center is open to everyone, especially
the LGBT community, and is easy to locate
on Truman Avenue, just off busy Duval
Street. For additional information, including a listing of local Gay or Gay-friendly
businesses and activities, log onto kwbgonline.org.
Key West Pride happens yearly in the
summertime, already scheduled for June
8-12, 2016. A featured slate of events coinciding with Pride, such as the parade and
festival, are expected to be announced in
the coming months. Look for information
at keywestpride.org. “Tropical Heat” is
billed as the “hottest” event for men, taking place every August in Key West; dates
for next year’s festivities are August 11-14,
2016. All-male themed parties and adultoriented entertainment, plus the attendance by the hottest guys from Southern
Florida and beyond, create a very steamy
affair. Get further details at tropicalheatkw.
com. There’s something for the ladies, too.
“Womenfest” is a female-specific event
that welcomes women from around the
globe to Key West for four days offering everything from a flag football tournament to
booze cruises to pool parties. Dates for the
2016 event have not yet been revealed, but
visit womenfest.com for updates. “Fantasty
Fest” is a 10-day party in late October that
includes a street fair, costume nights, parades, and wild parties to satisfy every fetish; in a nutshell, it’s fun and safe debauchery in paradise. The fest is city-wide with
most, if not all, events open to everyone,
straight or LGBT. Go to fantasyfest.com to
read more about it.
Of the Gay bars in town, the most popular are Bourbon Street Pub, 801 Bourbon
ing Competition takes place on November
25-29 at Casa Marina Resort, and the Old
Stone Concert Series Presents: “Messiah”
on November 29 at Key West United Methodist Church.
For adventure, I strongly recommend
booking a tour with Danger Charters.
From sunset sails to snorkeling and cocktail cruises, this tour company specializes
in water adventures for groups or private
parties. The tour guides are knowledgeable
and fun, as well as young and attractive
(which doesn’t hurt), and the excursions
last between a couple of hours to half day.
I ventured on the “Sail, Snorkel & Kayak
Trip” that included equipment rental, light
snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. We spent equal time doing all three activities, however, participating in snorkeling or kayaking is optional; you can just sit
on the boat and hang out, if you so choose.
As a novice kayaker, I was delighted that
our guide offered to take me in his boat
and do all the paddling; we kayaked in 1 to
2 feet of water, which is perfect for those
worried about tipping over. I also booked
myself on the “Wind & Wine Sunset Sail”
that sailed near and around Key West for 2
hours with generous pours of red and white
wine, champagne, import and domestic
beers, and soft drinks, plus various appetizers. I really enjoyed sailing with these
guys; it would be the first thing I do – book
another tour with them – upon returning to
Key West. To book your adventure, go to
dangercharters.com.
The Old Time Trolley Tours’ “Hop on
Hop Off” tour is a great way to see much of
Key West without having to break a sweat.
You’ll swerve through city streets, beachside communities, and busy thoroughfares
in the comfort of window-less trolleys,
stopping at various points to let people
on or off. For museums, I suggest the Mel
Fisher Maritime Museum, Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, Ernest Heming-
An aerial photo of Key West, Fla., the Southernmost City in the Continental United States and
last of the islands in the Florida Keys island chain connected to the South Florida mainland
by the Keys Overseas Highway – Photo by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau
Bar, Aqua Nightclub, and La Te Da, all
between the 700 and 1100 blocks on Duval
Street.
HOLIDAY EVENTS, ADVENTURES AND SIGHTSEEING
If traveling to Key West during the holidays, take note of these special events. The
Key West Holiday Fest runs between November 20 and December 25 throughout
the city with the lighting of the Harbour
Walk of Lights, parade, and tours of decorated inns, the International Sand Sculpt-
November 20, 2015
way Home and Museum, and the Harry S.
Truman Little White House. For something
spooky, the Ghosts and Gravestones Frightseeing Tour is interesting and somewhat
chilling. And, for live entertainment, take
in a show at either the Red Barn Theatre or
Waterfront Playhouse.
For information on all of these, or to get
a VIP Pass that includes admisson to each
for one price, visit fla-keys.com.
Seattle Gay News 29
30 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015
holiday events
Scrooge work? What ails Tiny Tim? Does
Scrooge even get reformed? It’s all up to you
in this wild, hilarious, holiday ride. A holiday tradition for countless locals since 1985,
it’s the perfect way to celebrate the holidays
with friends or family. Tickets: www.unexpectedproductions.org; 206-587-2414.
“Antiques Improv Show.” Dec. 3-18,
Thu & Fri @ 8pm. Jet City Improv, Historic University Theatre, 5510 University
Way NE. Jet City Improv invites audiences
of all ages to learn the hidden and hilarious
histories behind their family heirlooms and
thrift store discoveries at the world premier
of “Antiques Improv Show.” Every performance of this improvised comedy features
amusing appraisals for real antiques and
curiosities brought on stage by members of
the audience, as well as an uproarious reenactment of each item’s journey through history. Audiences are invited to bring objects
of any shape, size, age, and origin, even if
they are not obviously valuable or antique.
Guests are also encouraged to bring items
that they are able to hold in their lap during the entirety of the performance and
discouraged from bringing anything truly
irreplaceable, as there is always a small risk
of an accident when the performers handle
the selected objects. The appraised value of
each object will be completely fictitious, but
every appraisal will put its owner in the running for a real prize at the end of the performance. “Antiques Improv Show” is appropriate for all ages. Special Opening Night
Gala on Dec. 3 features a Q&A with the
actors followed by complimentary cake and
champagne. Tickets: $15 advance ($18 at the
door); $12 advance ($15 at the door) for students, seniors, military personnel, and TPS
members. http://www.jetcityimprov.org/
CLICK ON BUY TICKETS above main
menu.
Beauty and the Beast. Dec. 11-13.
Paramount Theatre, 911 Pine St. The most
beautiful love story every told comes to
life! The romantic Broadway musical for
all generations, Disney’s Beauty and the
Beast, the smash hit Broadway musical, is
coming to Seattle! Based on the Academy
Award-winning animated feature film, this
eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts
of over 35 million people worldwide. This
classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers
including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved
title song. Experience the romance and enchantment of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
at The Paramount! Tickets: www.tickets.
com; 877-STG-4TIX; and in person at the
Paramount Box Office.
Holiday investigates some un-holiday-like
shenanigans taking place in Christmastown. Add a glamorous elf, a used-Christmas-tree salesman, a muckraking reporter,
and a quick-thinking cab driver, and you’ve
got the “best new holiday romp of the year!”
(Seattle Times). Tickets: www.seattlepublictheater.org; 206-524-1300.
Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales
“Unwrapped.” Nov. 25-Dec. 13. Seattle
Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. The stars
of 2014’s hit musical revue “The Vaudevillians” are back with more tunes and more
laughs, this time with mistletoe! Drag performers Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales
return to the Leo K. Stage for a special engagement that is perfect for those looking
for an off-kilter, off-color holiday show. So
drag yourself to the theatre for big cheer!
Tickets: $42-$62. www.seattlerep.org; 206443-2222.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.
Dec. 12-24. Seattle Public Theater, 7312 W.
Greenlake Dr. N. The delightfully horrible
Herdman clan descends on the Bathhouse
for their 15th consecutive year, turning a pedestrian pageant into sidesplitting chaos and
bringing new life to an old tradition. Featuring a cast of young actors alongside adult
professionals, The Best Christmas Pageant
Ever is the not-to-be-missed holiday favor Mary Poppins. Dec. 4-20. Bainbridge
ite for families and kids of all ages. Tickets: Performing Arts, 200 Madison Ave. N,
$5-$32. www.seattlepublictheater.org; 206- Bainbridge Island. Everyone’s favorite prac524-1300.
tically-perfect nanny takes the stage in this
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Nov. 5 -Dec. adventure. Disney & Cameron Mackin27. Seattle Children’s Theatre, 201 Thomas tosh’s Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixSt. A new musical version of the beloved ture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs
English story. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, (“A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Supercalifragiliswe love you! Just in time for the holidays, ticexpialidocious,” “Chim Chim Cher-Ee,”
SCT presents this sparkling musical, based and more), breathtaking dance numbers,
on the MGM motion picture version of Ian and astonishing stagecrafYt.
Fleming’s book. Come see this imaginative
One of the most popular Disney movtale filled with memorable, quirky charac- ies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole
ters, and, of course, Chitty the “fantasmago- new way: as a positively perfect musical!
rical” car. Cheer on the devoted father and Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the
eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts, and his classic Walt Disney film, Disney & Camchildren, Jemima and Jeremy, as they plot eron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins delighted
to rescue Grandpa Potts and the children of Broadway audiences for over 2,500 perforVulgaria from the dastardly Baron and Bar- mances and received nominations for nine
oness Bomburst. Join us for a marvelous, Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including
musical holiday event! If you enjoyed James Best Musical. Tickets: $19-27. www.bainand the Giant Peach and The Wizard of Oz, bridgeperformingarts.org; 206-842-8569
you will love this fantastic adventure. Tickets: www.sct.org; 206-441-3322.
My Fair Lady. Nov. 5-Jan. 3. Village
Theatre, 303 Front St. N., Issaquah. One of
Christmastown: A Holiday Noire. the greatest Broadway musicals of all time,
Dec. 3-24. Seattle Public Theater, 7312 W. revel in the story of a lowly Cockney flower
Greenlake Dr. N. In this film noir-inspired girl as she transforms into a sophisticated
holiday thriller by Seattle playwright lady – with the help of a linguistics teacher
Wayne Rawley, hard-boiled detective Nick who will get a bit more than he bargained
for. Based on George Bernard Shaw’s play
Pygmalion, this beloved musical for the
whole family boasts a score of hummable
classics such as “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?”
“I Could Have Danced All Night,” and “On
The Street Where You Live.” Directed by
Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winning
writer and Village Theatre regular Brian
Yorkey, My Fair Lady will be full of all
the glamour and style you expect to see at
Village Theatre over the holidays. Tickets:
www.villagetheatre.org; 425-392-2202.
(Run continues Jan. 8-31 at Everett Performing Arts Center, 2710 Wetmore Ave.,
Everett. www.villagetheatre.org; 425-2578600.)
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Nov. 28-Dec. 28. Pacific Northwest
Ballet, Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, 321
Mercer St. A new/old holiday tradition
comes to Seattle! Pacific Northwest Ballet is excited to premiere the centerpiece
of its 2015-2016 season, a sparkling new
production of George Balanchine’s The
Nutcracker featuring eye-popping colorful sets and costumes designed by author/
illustrator Ian Falconer. PNB’s new production still features Tchaikovsky’s timeless
score performed live by the mighty PNB
Orchestra, and the beloved story of Clara,
her Nutcracker prince, and a magical journey to delight audiences both young and
old. “As a ten-year-old boy, I stepped onto
the stage for the first time as a member of
the cast of George Balanchine’s Nutcracker,” said PNB Artistic Director Peter Boal.
“The magic of this production was evident
from that moment on, and now to have the
November 20, 2015
opportunity to bring it to Seattle audiences
wrapped in the brilliance of Ian Falconer’s
designs is a dream come true.” Tickets: $25$156. 206-441-2424; www.pnb.org
She Loves Me. Dec. 4-20. Seattle Musical Theatre, Magnuson Park Building 47,
7120 62nd Ave. NE.
As a parfumerie store readies itself for the
Christmas rush, a store clerk and a salesgirl
are constantly at odds, but are unaware that
they are conducting an anonymous romantic correspondence. This charming musical is adapted from the Jimmy Stewart film
The Shop Around the Corner and the basis
for the 1998 movie You’ve Got Mail. Musical gems include “Twelve Days ‘Til Christmas,” “Dear Friend” and “Ice Cream.” Tickets: $30-$35. www.seattlemusicaltheatre.
org; 206-363-2809.
Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the
Christmas Carol. Dec. 4-19, Thurs.,
7:30pm; Fri. & Sat., 8pm; Sun., 2pm. Renton Civic Theatre, 507 S 3rd St., Renton.
Tickets: 425-226-5529 or visit rentoncivictheatre.org.
Rogers & Hammerstein’s Sound of
Music: Live on Stage. Nov. 24-Jan. 3. 5th
Avenue Theatre, 1308 5th Avenue. Long
before Julie Andrews sang from the mountaintops in the legendary 1965 film, The
Sound of Music captured the imagination of
theatergoers world-wide. This story of the
young governess Maria, who brings muchneeded tenderness and joy to the von Trapp
family, has everything – romance, danger,
bravery, and love. Tickets: www.5thavenue.
org; 206-625-1900.
This Christmas. Nov. 20-Dec. 26. Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St. Leah plans the
perfect Christmas, but her husband is preoccupied, an inept waitress could spoil everything, and Christmas Eve rapidly spins
out of control as uninvited guests show
up. Will this be the worst Christmas ever,
or will Leah open her heart to new ways
of celebrating the moments that make life
beautiful? Please note: If you would like to
purchase a Dinner and Show Package on
Dec. 2 please call the Box Office at 206781-9707. Dinner and Show Package tickets
are not available online. Please notify the
Box Office of any dietary restrictions when
purchasing tickets. Tickets: www.taproottheatre.org; 206-781-9707.
Wonderful Life. Dec. 3-27. ArtsWest,
4711 California Ave. SW. George Bailey’s
struggle to grasp why life is worth living
finds a fresh voice in this enchanting oneperson retelling of Frank Capra’s classic film It’s a Wonderful Life. Penned by
Helen Pafumi and Jason Lott, this memory
play introduces audiences to the residents
of Bedford Falls, New York on a fateful
Christmas Eve in 1945. Wonderful Life –
2012’s Helen Hayes Award Nominee for
Outstanding New Play or Musical – is a
heart-warming story about the effect one
hardworking man’s life has on the people
around him. Tickets: $17-$37.50. www.artswest.org; 206-938-0339.
Can Can presents: “Wonderland – A
Carnival of Winter Wonder.” Nov. 13Jan. 31. Can Can in the Historic Pike Place
Market, 94 Pike St. Celebrate the holidays
as our cast of A-list performers swing from
the chandeliers into a new show full of
classic beauty and flirtatious artistry. It’ll
be a glittering parade of nostalgia, exploding with dance, laughter, and all the cheer
of yesteryear. Tickets: $30-$85. 206-6520832; www.thecancan.com.
Seattle Gay News 31
32 Seattle Gay News
November 20, 2015

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