December

by: Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living / in Datebook, Spokane CDA Living

ART

December 7, January 4: First Friday

Enjoy visual arts, musical presentations, sample local foods, get acquainted with local performing artists and more at this monthly event sponsored by the Downtown Spokane Partnership. On the first Friday of each month, participating galleries, museums, boutiques and more host a city-wide open house with refreshments and entertainment. First Friday is free and open to the public.Downtown Spokane. downtownspokane.org.

December 14, January 11: Second Friday Artwalk in Coeur d’Alene

5-8pm every second Friday of the month, April-December, stroll through beautiful Downtown Coeur d’Alene and enjoy local and nationally acclaimed artists. Visit supporting galleries, shops, restaurants and businesses. A free family-friendly event.

December 1, December 17, January 6, January 21 : Spokane Poetry Slam and BootSlam

Spokane Poetry Slam is competitive performance poetry at its Northwest finest. Every first and third week of the month spoken word warriors battle for Inland Empire supremacy, and a $50 Grand Prize. Each poem is judged by five members of the audience and, after two rounds of poetry, whichever poet has the highest cumulative score is declared the winner. Bootslam, at Boots Bakery, is held on the first Sunday of each month, while Spokane Poetry Slam, held at the Bartlett, is held on the third Monday of each month. Boots Bakery and Lounge, 24 W. Main Ave. The Bartlett, 228 W. Sprague Ave. spokanepoetryslam.org.

currently open: Modern Masters: Group f/64

Nearly fifty works from five of f/64’s members, now known as some of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. Founded in 1932, Group ƒ/64 was an informal association of photographers devoted to exhibiting and promoting a new direction in photography. Museum of Arts and Culture. 2316 W. First Ave. (509) 456-3931, northwestmuseum.org or themac@northwestmuseum.org

through December: As Grandmother Taught: Women, Tradition and Plateau Art

Celebrating the work of three contemporary female Plateau artists alongside historic objects from the museum’s collection, linking the past to the present. Museum of Arts and Culture. 2316 W. First Ave. (509) 456-3931, northwestmuseum.org or themac@northwestmuseum.org

Through January 20: Ryan Feddersen: Phantom Lands

Feddersen uses humor, play, and engagement to make connections between U.S. history, her Okanogan heritage, and current events to ignite conversations. Museum of Arts and Culture. 2316 W. First Ave. (509) 456-3931, northwestmuseum.org or themac@northwestmuseum.org

Through January 27: The Inland Northwest and the Great War

On the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day, which ended World War I, we remember and

celebrate the Spokanites who went to war. Museum of Arts and Culture. 2316 W. First Ave. (509) 456-3931, northwestmuseum.org or themac@northwestmuseum.org

MUSIC

December 8-9: Baroque 1: A Winter Baroque Celebration

The best-loved works of the Baroque period kick-off the Christmas spirit. A festive evening of Bach, Vivaldi and more set in the splendor of Spokane area churches. Saturday’s show will be held at Westminster Congregational United Church of Christ. 411 S Washington St. Sunday’s show will be held at Spokane Valley Church of the Nazarene. 15515 E 20th Ave, Spokane Valley. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 11, January 8: Northwest of New Orleans

Join Hot Club of Spokane for a monthly jazz variety show, performed every second Tuesday of the month, hosted by the Bartlett. The Bartlett. 228 W. Sprague Ave. For more information and tickets, please log on to: thebartlettspokane.com/

December 3: Gonzaga Symphony Orchestra: Lynn Harrell

World renowned cellist Lynn Harrell returns to Spokane to perform again with the Gonzaga Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Harrell’s presence is felt throughout the musical world. A consummate soloist, chamber musician, recitalist, conductor and teacher, his work throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia has placed him in the highest echelon of today’s performing artists. Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 14: Myles Kennedy & Co. The Year of the Tiger Tour

Myles Kennedy had finished his first solo album. Then he threw it away. “I had been working on a record for about seven years,” says the singer/songwriter known worldwide as the voice of Alter Bridge and of Slash’s band, Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators. What eventually emerged was Year of the Tiger, an album almost entirely focused on the loss of Kennedy’s father when the singer was just four years old. The Year of The Tiger, according to the Chinese Zodiac, was 1974, the same year he lost his father. Kennedy himself plays banjo, lap steel, bass, and mandolin in addition to guitar. Spokane native, Myles Kennedy & Co comes to Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox after a sold out acoustic concert in May. Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 31: Spokane Symphony Special: Beethoven’s Ninth on New Year’s Eve

Hail the new year in all its glory and end with triumph and jubilation. Beethoven’s Ninth is an exhilarating testament to the human spirit. This production will feature more than 150 performers on stage, including four guest vocalists and the Spokane Symphony Chorale, directed by Kristina Ploeger-Hekmatpanah. After the concert, walk down the street to The Historic Davenport Hotel for Puttin’ On The Ritz gala celebration. Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

January 11: Little River Band

The Eagles founding member, the late Glenn Frey, knew what he was saying when he dubbed Little River Band “the best singing band in the world.” Through the ‘70’s and ‘80’s, Little River Band enjoyed huge chart success with multi-platinum albums and chart topping hits like: “Reminiscing,” “Cool Change,” “Lonesome Loser,” “The Night Owls,” “Take It Easy On Me,” “Help Is on Its Way,” “Happy Anniversary,” “We Two,” “Man On Your Mind,” “The Other Guy,” and “It’s A Long Way There.” Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

January 19-20: Spokane Symphony Classics: Dvorak and Rachmaninoff

Spokane Symphony Concertmaster Mateusz Wolski will perform another great work from the violin repertoire: Dvorvák’s Violin Concerto. Rachmaninoff’s choral symphony, The Bells, loosely based on a poem by Edgar Allan Poe, is considered by many to be one of his great masterpieces. There is a pre-concert talk one hour before each performance. Come early to learn more about the music you will hear. This talk is free to all ticket holders. Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

January 26: The Spokane Symphony Presents the Music of Queen: A Rock Symphony

The Spokane Symphony “will rock you” with the classic music of Queen in this electric symphonic-rock tribute. Amped up with a fabulous rock band, glittering light show, and top-notch vocals, Queen’s distinct sound is captured in its entirety. With spot-on inflections and virtuosic playing, you’ll experience the wall of sound that made Freddie and Queen world famous. With killer Queen hits like “Somebody to Love,” “Under Pressure,” “We Are the Champions,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and more …There will never be another Freddie Mercury—but you’re going to get something very close. Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

EVENTS

December 9: So You Think You Can Dance Live!

So You Think You Can Dance Live! 2018 features the Top 10 contestants from Season 15 which include the following: Jensen Arnold, Hannahlei Cabanilla, Genessy Castillo, Evan DeBenedetto, Jay Jay Dixonbey, Magdalena Fialek, Darius Hickman, Chelsea Hough, Cole Mills, and Slavik Pustovoytov with more cast announcements to come. Fans can witness the hottest show-stopping routines from Season 15 as well as original pieces choreographed specifically for So You Think You Can Dance Live. 2018. First Interstate Center (previously INB Performing Arts Center). 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 16: Stage to Screen: The Madness of George III
Written by one of Britain’s best-loved playwrights Alan Bennett (The History Boys, The Lady in the Van),The Madness of George III was also adapted into a BAFTA Award-winning film following its premiere on stage in 1991. The cast of this new production includes Olivier Award-winners Mark Gatiss(Sherlock, Wolf Hall, NT Live Coriolanus) in the title role, and Adrian Scarborough (Gavin and Stacey, Upstairs Downstairs, After the Dance). It’s 1786 and King George III is the most powerful man in the world. But his behaviour is becoming increasingly erratic as he succumbs to fits of lunacy. With the King’s mind unravelling at a dramatic pace, ambitious politicians and the scheming Prince of Wales threaten to undermine the power of the Crown, and expose the fine line between a King and a man. Bing Crosby Theatre. 901 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 31: Puttin’ On the Ritz

Join Spokane Symphony Associates for an elegant and exciting New Year’s Eve to remember This is the perfect way to follow the Spokane Symphony’s Beethoven’s Ninth concert ending at 8:30pm. Walk the paparazzi-lined red carpet, escorted by gentlemen in tails. Enjoy a 3-course dinner, plus salad and dessert at 9 pm, while taking advantage of three no-host bars. Party to the highly entertaining music of MasterClass Big Band on two large dance floors — watch out… “Elvis” will be in the building for entertainment. Toast in the New Year at midnight with a glass of complimentary champagne and festive party favors. Black tie attire preferred, or dressy cocktail. Historic Davenport Hotel, 10 S. Post St. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

January 18: Mac and Cheese Festival
The 2nd Annual Mac & Cheese Festival celebrates your favorite childhood dish by featuring variations carefully prepared by local Coeur d’Alene chefs competing for the Golden Noodle Award. Attendees will enjoy a comfort-food-filled day tasting different cheesy dishes with select craft beer pairings. Vote for your favorite dish to award the People’s Choice Trophy. Coeur d’Alene Resort. 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d’Alene.

January 23-February 3: Disney’sThe Lion King

More than 90 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney’sThe Lion King, and now you can, too. Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. The Lion Kingalso features some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award®-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. First Interstate Center (previously INB Performing Arts Center). 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

THEATRE

December 12-16: Waitress

Inspired by Adrienne Shelly’s beloved film, Waitresstells the story of Jenna – a waitress and expert pie maker, Jenna dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life. First Interstate Center (previously INB Performing Arts Center). 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

January 4-6: Follies

InFollies, the time is 1971, and theatrical impresario, Dimitri Weissmann, hosts a reunion of ex-Follies performers in his crumbling theatre, setting the stage for a parade of brilliant pastiche numbers, including “Losing My Mind,” “I’m Still Here” and “Broadway Baby.” Amid the reminiscing, two middle-aged couples confront some unpleasant truths about their past and present, coming face-to-face with the future. Spokane Civic Theatre. 1020 N. Howard St. (509) 325-2507. For tickets: (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

January 11-27: The Controversy of Valladolid

Imagine a time when the Catholic Church had the right to determine whether or not you were human. In a sixteenth-century Spanish monastery, the fate of millions of American natives from an ocean away hangs precariously in the balance. The Controversy of Valladolid, an exciting new masterwork by French playwright and screenwriter Jean-Claude Carrière, brings to light the shocking real-life debates whose outcomes are still felt today. Stage Left Theatre. 108 West 3rd Ave. (509) 838-9727. spokanestageleft.org

January 18-February 10: The Memory of Water

Three sisters gather for their mother’s funeral. Each has her own memories of her childhood and this creates conflict, which is, by turns, angry, desperate, poignant, and wildly funny. The situation is deepened by the recurring presence of Vi, their mother, a ghostly vision in flowing taffeta. While visible only to one of the sisters, her influence and demand to be understood rather than buried and forgotten drives the other sisters as well. An evening both provocative and hilarious is promised. Spokane Civic Theatre. 1020 N. Howard St. (509) 325-2507. For tickets: (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

January 25-February 17: You Can’t Take It With You

This celebrated comedy revolves around the family of Martin Vanderhof who live “just around the corner from Columbia University – but don’t go looking for it.” Grandpa, as Martin is more commonly known, is the paterfamilias of a large and extended family: his daughter, Penny, who fancies herself a romance novelist; her husband, Paul, an amateur fireworks expert; their daughter, Alice, an attractive and loving girl who is still embarrassed by her family’s eccentricities. When Alice falls for her boss, Tony, a handsome scion of Wall Street, she fears that their two families – so unlike in manner, politics, and finances – will never come together. During a disastrous dinner party, Alice’s worst fears are confirmed. Frustrated and upset, Alice intends to run away, until Grandpa manages to not only bring the happy couple together, but to set Tony’s father straight about the true priorities in life. After all, why be obsessed by money? You can’t take it with you. Spokane Civic Theatre. 1020 N. Howard St. (509) 325-2507. For tickets: (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

HOLIDAY

Through December 23: Elf,The Musical

Based on the cherished 2003 New Line Cinema hit, ElfThe Musical is the story of Buddy, a young orphan, who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. After all, “The best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” Spokane Civic Theatre. 1020 N. Howard St. (509) 325-2507. For tickets: (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

Through January 1: Journey to the North Pole

Sail through the waters of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene, aglow in lights, as you make your way to the North Pole for a visit with Santa and his elves. Coeur d’Alene Resort. 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d’Alene.

December 5: The Oak Ridge Boys: Shine the Light on Christmas

Every year, a man with a white beard goes city to city giving the gift of Christmas joy, and his name is… William Lee Golden (were you expecting someone else?). For nearly 30 years now, Country Music Hall of Fame members The Oak Ridge Boys have been a part of their fans’ holiday seasons with their annual Christmas tour. This year, the award-winning group will make a stop in Spokane for a very special evening on the Shine the Light on Christmas Tour. First Interstate Center (previously INB Performing Arts Center). 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 8-9: Whitworth University Christmas Festival Concert

The Whitworth University Christmas Festival Concert has become a tradition in the greater Spokane area. The 33rd edition of this annual holiday performance, entitled “I Look from Afar…” focuses its attention on gazing beyond the present to find what is yet to come. The concert features music and inspirational readings that celebrate the joy and mystery of the Christmas season. Performing ensembles include all three of the University’s choral ensembles, The Whitworth Choir, Women’s Choir, and Men’s Chorus, along with a complement of student instrumentalists from the University’s Department of Music. The concert concludes in a candlelight setting and is complete with hymns and carols for all to sing. Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 9: Affiniti – A Celtic Christmas

Affiniti is a trio of Irish girls made up of Emer Barry (Soprano), Mary McCague (violinist) and Teresa O’Donnell (harpist). Be enthralled this December as three of Ireland’s finest musicians bring their Celtic style (in music and in glamour) to The Bing Theater for one night only. Expect to hear beloved Irish songs such as “Marble Halls” and “Danny Boy” as well as Affinití’s chart-topping version of “O Holy Night” and a very special duet of “White Christmas” with Mr. Crosby. Bing Crosby Theatre. 901 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 13-23: Long Christmas Ride Home

Follow a dysfunctional family during the Christmas holiday. This production contains the use of puppets. Stage Left Theatre. 108 West 3rd Ave. (509) 838-9727. spokanestageleft.org

December 13: A Christmas with CS Lewis

The year is 1962 and CS Lewis, the famous British author, is in the twilight years of his life and has agreed to give an informal talk to a group of American writers who are visiting England over the Christmas season. They have come to Lewis’ home, just outside of Oxford, and are eagerly anticipating hearing the man whose celebrity once landed him on the front cover of Timemagazine. Lewis is in great form and his audience is spellbound as, with intimate eloquence and infectious humor he recounts the significant events and people that shaped his life, his remarkable journey from atheism to Christianity and his reflections on the meaning of Christmas. Bing Crosby Theatre. 901 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 15: Mark O’Connor and Friends: An Appalachian Christmas

Grammy-winning violinist Mark O’Connor & Friends brings the An Appalachian Christmas tour featuring Brandy Clark to Spokane. The performance features elegant interpretations of Christmas classics found on O’Connor’s celebrated album of the same name, which reached the top 20 on three Billboard charts (Bluegrass Albums, Crossover Albums, and Classical Albums) and which American Songwriter called an absolute delight. The touring ensemble performs hits from the album, delivering stunning vocal harmonies and sophisticated instrumentals within classic Christmas music. Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 15: Spokane Jazz Orchestra: The Music of Michael Buble

Get in the holiday spirit with your Spokane Jazz Orchestra as they perform a Michael Buble Christmas, featuring holiday favorites from Buble’s album “Christmas”. Rising star Jace Fogelman will share his vocal talent, and favorite holiday tunes, as the featured guest artist. Experience the sound of joy with your loved ones during the SJO’s beloved holiday concert. Bing Crosby Theatre. 901 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

December 22-23: Spokane Symphony Pops: Holiday Pops

A season tradition for the whole family. Joining us for this holiday celebration will be critically acclaimed soprano, Lisa Vroman, whose versatility allows her to move effortlessly from Broadway to opera to concert hall. Enjoy your favorite songs and sing-along carols with the Spokane Symphony, Spokane Symphony Chorale, Spokane Area Youth Choirs… and our special out-of-town guest, Santa. Fox Theatre. 1001 W. Sprague Ave. (800) 325-SEAT or ticketswest.com.

SPORTS

December 7: Spokane Chiefs vs Lethbridge Hurricanes