Artfully Edmonds: Summer in Edmonds offers art possibilities for young people

Caption: Back row, standing: Kyle Sparks, Glen Hodges, Phillip Solheim, Ben Broughton, Cindy Nguyen, Bekka Lorant, Harrison Gordon (as Cliff Bradshaw), Lillybeth Held, Max Boone, Brendan Bibby (top), Emma VanderWeyst, Marc Valle Front row, seated: Camille Cano, Erich Schlec, Erin Hyatt (Sally Bowles), Samantha Paley, Annika Prichard. Photo by Gabriel Corey
Ballyhoo Theatre performs “Cabaret” this weekend at Edmonds Heights K-12. Young actors pictured here include: Back row, standing: Kyle Sparks, Glen Hodges, Phillip Solheim, Ben Broughton, Cindy Nguyen, Bekka Lorant, Harrison Gordon (as Cliff Bradshaw), Lillybeth Held, Max Boone, Brendan Bibby (top), Emma VanderWeyst, Marc Valle
Front row, seated: Camille Cano, Erich Schlec, Erin Hyatt (Sally Bowles), Samantha Paley, Annika Prichard. (Photo by Gabriel Corey)

Although the regular seasons of almost all performance halls come to an end by July, Edmonds continues to enjoy “Edmonds-Kind-Of” art expression through the summer months from our galleries, music venues and stage-performance halls.

Artfully Edmonds admits that everyone pulls closer to home when school starts; but maybe the summer is the perfect time to discover what Edmonds has to offer, particularly in the arts. Visit Edmonds!

What My Edmonds News loves about this city is the enthusiasm of our mentor-educators who end their academic obligations and turn their teaching skills to summer stock, steel drum classes and art displays that will appeal to young people.

Visit Edmonds! Bookmark My Edmonds News and when you and your family find yourselves in our neighborhoods, checking out new housing, parks and exciting, fun restaurant options, you’ll also know what we offer our residents – artfully.

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This weekend!
Friday/Saturday/Sunday
July 8 ~ 7 p.m. and
July 9/ 10 ~ 2 p.m. and also 7 p.m.

“Cabaret” by the
Ballyhoo Theatre Troupe at
Edmonds Heights K-12
23200 100th Ave W.

Local youth theatre mentor Shileah Corey directs this weekend’s production of “Cabaret” set on the Edmonds Heights K-12 stage. Produced by Ballyhoo Theatre, this production features the choreography of Emma Ruhl, with Michael Corey conducting the orchestra.

Noteworthy: The 17 cast members of “Cabaret,” ages 15-19, represent 14 different Edmonds-area schools.

Says director Corey of the production: “Cabaret, the 1966 groundbreaking masterpiece with music by John Kander and Fred Ebb and book by Joe Masteroff, has been adored by generations of theatregoers around the globe.

“Set in the shadows of 1931 Berlin during the rise of the Nazi regime, “Cabaret” explores the relationship between 19-year-old nightlife club performer Sally Bowles and young American novelist Cliff Bradshaw.”

As the political mood of the 1930s darken and Bradshaw tries to compel Miss Bowles to flee impending doom, the cabaret’s mysterious master of ceremonies adds an element of danger-tinged intrigue to the Kit Kat Club’s social backdrop.

“Cabaret” has gained notoriety over the past 50 years as a classic work that serves as commentary on social trends; specifically examining how tragic events can turn for those seen as “different” when we keep our eyes closed to the world around us.

Box office note: Cabaret is intended for mature audiences. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased at the Edmonds Heights K-12 theatre lobby.

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Don't be caught without 'shorts', the Driftwood Players warn. Driftwood's "The 7th Annual Festival of Shorts" beings on Friday.
Don’t be caught without ‘shorts’, the Driftwood Players warn. Driftwood’s “The 7th Annual Festival of Shorts” beings on Friday.

Friday/Saturday
July 8/9 ~ 8 p.m. and
Sunday
July 10 ~ 2 p.m.

7th Annual Festival of Shorts
a TIPS production (Theatre of Intriguing Possibilities)

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Driftwood Players at
Wade James Theatre
950 Main St.

It’s this weekend (only) for the Driftwood Players crowd pleasing “Festival of Shorts.

“Shorts” – which takes place in both the film industry and theatre districts around the world, give audiences an opportunity to experience the work of emerging screenwriters and playwrights – short bursts of their inspiration – for your enjoyment.

The theme of this year’s Driftwood festival is “Paradox.” The selected playwrights will exhibit their most innovative, hilarious or profound 15 minutes of stage-time, with actors and directors chosen through the Driftwood audition process.

Driftwood received over 200 entries from around the globe and chose the work of eight playwrights; pairing them up with eight directors and eight cast line-ups. Artfully Edmonds always looks for actors who have been cast in multiple Shorts productions – imagine keeping one’s lines straight!

The eight playwright finalists were chosen through blind readings of the Driftwood Players selection committee. These “never before produced” Shorts will make their debut on the stage at The Wade James Theater.

Festival producer and executive producer of the TIPs Series, Diane Jamieson, tells My Edmonds News, “we are thrilled with this year’s submissions and can’t wait for our audiences to see – and vote on – these production!”

Yes readers, after experiencing eight 15-minute productions, set changes; stage lights up and stage lights down, you will note on your tally sheet your selection for the “People’s Choice” award. Will your choice match that of your companion?

Each night the audience selects their favorite and on Sunday, the community of judges will select an overall festival winner.

Remember: This weekend only so grab a set of tickets right now at this link.

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Summer Stock: Driftwood Troupe

Catering to young actors – ages 3-19

After the Shorts festival leaves “the boards” of the Wade James Theatre, get ready for more drama as “Driftwood Troupe” rolls out its summer stock.

“Driftwood Troupe” camps focus on student-centered experiences that encourage working together to hone basic acting skills, create characters and cultivate creativity.

Says acting instructor and innovator Marianni Groves, “These high energy camps act as a springboard for students who know they love the theater! Students will focus on becoming an ensemble through dynamic and challenging games and exercises that will culminate in 20-minute performance at the end of each week.”

Information about the exciting line-up of summer productions which includes – in part – Peter and the Wolf, is available at the “Driftwood Troupe” official website.

But, there are many components to Driftwood Player’s productions; like “Troupe Mainstage” and summer’s annual visits by the Missoula Children’s Theatre.

July productions on the stages of Driftwood Players will include, “Into the Woods” being performed by Driftwood Teen Troupe July 21-24; and “Thoroughly Modern Millie” being staged July 29-31 by Troupe Mainstage. Watch for updates on Driftwood’s August performances by bookmarking My Edmonds News and typing "Driftwood Players" into the search bar.
July productions on the stages of Driftwood Players will include, “Into the Woods” being performed by Driftwood Teen Troupe July 21-24; and “Thoroughly Modern Millie” being staged July 29-31 by Troupe Mainstage. Watch for updates on Driftwood’s August performances by bookmarking My Edmonds News and typing “Driftwood Players” into the search bar.

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The Phoenix Theatre (Phoenix)
9673 Firdale Ave.

Laughter! That’s one ingredient that makes a summer most memorable. And laughter is precisely what The Phoenix Theatre has in mind for us. And some of “us” drive into Edmonds to enjoy productions by Phoenix from as far away as Olympia and Everett.

Laugh your summer away -- at The Phoenix Theatre, located in Edmonds' Firdale neighborhood.
Laugh your summer away — at The Phoenix Theatre, located in Edmonds’ Firdale neighborhood.

A string of comedies all in one night-all on one stage is what The Phoenix Theatre has in mind for its loyal patrons beginning July 22-30 and again Aug. 19-28.

“I’m Herbert, Here We Are, and The Overtones” described by Edmonds’ masters of comedy as, “Three stories about love at different ages: Young newlywed honeymooners, middle age dating, and an elderly couple who have been married several times, but can’t remember each other’s names.”

Tickets for this hilarious series by the theatre company that specializes in comedy are available at The Phoenix Theatre’s online box office

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Be Funny! Starting on July 19!

So, you think you’re funny? . . . or want to be?

Maybe you’ve imagined a theatre set; or the sweep of the floodlights over a stage, as the audience holds its breath in anticipation?

If so, you might want to try out your chops in The Phoenix Theatre’s classroom. The curriculum is lots of fun, lots of laughter! More information on theatre technique classes at this link.

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"Joie de Vivre" the work of local artist and sculptor, David Varnau, has been chosen by the City of Olympia and is now sited at Parcival Landing Park along the waterfront.
“Joie de Vivre” the work of local artist and sculptor, David Varnau, has been chosen by the City of Olympia and is now sited at Parcival Landing Park along the waterfront.

David Varnau serves as an art ambassador to Olympia

Edmonds has a new influence in Olympia. But, “the who” might surprise you – not someone in politics; although our fair city is very capably represented in the halls of the state capitol.

Artist and sculptor David Varnau, whose bronze sculptures have been installed at a number of private business/public viewing locations in downtown Edmonds, now has an installation at Percival Landing Park on Olympia’s waterfront.

News of the installation – a duplicate of ‘Joie de Vivre’ in exhibition at Cole Gallery – went out Wednesday morning via the City of Olympia’s YouTube channel. You can view the video of Varnau explaining the sculpture and the process at this link.

Varnau explains that Joie de Vivre was inspired by his 4-year old granddaughter. . . “who is a very beguiling little girl. . . full of energy and good spirit”.

Varnau describes this piece thusly, “Joie de Vivre depicts a young girl standing with her arms outstretched, her smiling face gazing up into the sunshine.  A breeze blows her clothing and hair, creating a dynamic image and capturing a joyful moment in time.  It reflects the moments of our lives when all is well, our senses are heightened and we feel the grace of being alive.”

Varnau exhibits a number of his pieces at Cole Gallery (107 5th Ave. S).

Artfully Edmonds congratulates Varnau on being such an inspiring ambassador for the City of Edmonds.

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Saturday Afternoon Gallery Stroll

"mmm. . .Mudbath" will capture the imagination of children. Photo courtesy of Gallery North artist Lonnie Flowers whose own imagine inspired this delightful work of art.
“mmm. . .Mudbath” will capture the imagination of children. Photo courtesy of Gallery North artist Lonnie Flowers whose own imagination inspired this delightful work of art.

 

Art for kids!
Gallery North
401 Main St.

Lonni Flowers of Gallery North is the artist who painted the whimsical child-friendly, “mmm. . . Mudbath”.

If you are strolling downtown with your children, or grandchildren, you will want to stop by the cooperative gallery and let them see this charming art.

Gallery North also invites you to enjoy their gift counters and refreshments during the artist’s reception on Saturday, July 9 from 1 to 4 p.m.

There will be a drawing at Gallery North for a uniquely created gift of art at 3:45 p.m.

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"Nocturne" An exhibit of sophistication and intrigue will be unveiled at Cole Gallery this Saturday evening at 6:30 p.m.
“Nocturne” An exhibit of sophistication and intrigue will be unveiled at Cole Gallery this Saturday evening at 6:30 p.m.

Cole Gallery
107 5th Ave. S.

Nocturne: Paintings of the Night
July 9 – Aug. 15

Saturday Night, July 9
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Gallery owner Denise Cole invites Edmonds’ area art lovers to a reception this Saturday, July 9 beginning at 6:30 p.m. to celebrate the work of guest artists Ron Stocke and Angela Bandurka, in addition to gallery artists Willow Bader, and Terrence Gasca.

This intriguing collection will be on exhibit at Cole Gallery through this month’s Art Walk Edmonds.

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Experience the thrill of Polynesian dance this weekend at Edmonds Center for the Arts.
Experience the thrill of Polynesian dance this weekend at Edmonds Center for the Arts.

Sunday, July 10
4 p.m. 
For the Family!
Hula O Lehualani – 9th Annual Ho’ike

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Polynesian Dance at
Edmonds Center for the Arts
410 4th Ave. N.

Dance troupe “Hula O Lehualani” presents their Ho’ike 2016-The 9th Annual Recital this Sunday afternoon at the ECA.

All of the Hula O Lehualani dancers participate in the traditional hula kahiko and ‘auana which they have studied throughout the year.

What better way to relive your memories of the Islands than through the drums, lyrics, and swaying dance steps of this culturally authentic group.

Hula O Lehualani is an Edmonds based, inclusive halau with emphasis put on aloha/love, respect/ho’ihi and humility/ha’a ha’a towards the practice of hula and Polynesian dance.

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Unclad 2017 will be held, once again, at the Edmonds Yacht Club.
Unclad 2017 returns to the Edmonds Yacht Club for a 2nd annual showing.

Save the Date!
UNCLAD 2017
March 16 – 19, 2017
Edmonds Yacht Club, Edmonds, WA

Remember UNCLAD 2016 and how much fun it was bumping into and chatting up your artfully Edmonds friends last spring? Well, My Edmonds News has heard this week from Gayle Picken, director of UNCLAD, that Edmonds Yacht Club has once again been chosen as the site of this splashy soiree.

Picken is looking for sponsors to join Edmonds Yacht Club in their support of art celebrating the nude figure in art.

Says Picken, “Sponsoring UNCLAD 2017 is a great way to support the arts and do some win-win marketing for your business or organization!

“We have several levels of sponsorship to meet your business needs and also a patron option for individuals who want to support the show.

Gayle Picken may be reached at 425-359-7974.

— By Emily Hill

Emily-2015-Bio-jPeg-for-News-150x150

Emily Hill is the author of two novels and a short story collection. Emily is retired from a career in public information and news media relations. If you would like your event listed, or featured, in Artfully Edmonds, Emily invites you to contact her here.

 

  1. Hi Emily,
    I just ran across the bit you did on my sculpture being installed in Olympia. Thank you for the coverage. It has been great to be involved in the art loan program there in Olympia. I soon will be installing a sculpture in Auburn for a similar art loan program. Recently, I spoke with Beth Sanger, who is on the Edmonds ArtWalk board and I was saying to her that it’s time that Edmonds should have a city sanctioned outdoor sculpture loan program. She intimated that she would encourage such a notion. Once I case out Auburn’s program, I intend to begin doing some nudging of “the powers that be” to consider pursuing a similar program in Edmonds. Thanks again for your support and coverage of the arts in Edmonds.

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