‘The Knight of the Burning Pestle’

7:30 p.m. Feb. 15–18 and 22–25, Idiom Theater, 1417 Cornwall Ave.

You’re undoubtedly familiar with Shakespeare — but have you heard of Francis Beaumont? This fellow Renaissance-era English playwright is remembered for his collaborations with John Fletcher, but “The Knight of the Burning Pestle” is his most famous solo work. Now, centuries later, it’s been adapted for Idiom Theater’s stage by director Glenn Hergenhahn-Zhao.

Written in 1607, this seventh-century satire is a charming farce of a show. The plot goes ike this: During a scheduled performance of a play entitled “The London Merchant,” an acting troupe is ordered to write two disorderly audience members’ apprentice into the show. The results are as comedic (and chaotic) as you’d imagine them to be. 

“The Knight of the Burning Pestle” show is appropriate for all ages, and tickets can be purchased online. The show runs through Saturday, March 2. Info: idiomtheater.org. 

‘Hypnova’

6:30 and 9 p.m. Feb 23–24, New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.

Under the direction of owner and movement artist Cybele Leon, Cabaret Atelier consistently puts on some of the most creative burlesque shows in Bellingham. This adult dance studio hosts spring, fall and winter sessions for up-and-coming performers; each one ends in a showcase featuring students, teachers and even special guest artists. 

To be clear, you don’t have to be a dancer to appreciate these performances. I attended a spring 2023 showcase to support a friend and had no expectations — but was ultimately blown away by the choreography, costumes and energy (from the crowd and performers alike). Their winter installment, entitled “Hypnova,” promises to give “you permission to get lost in the fantasy,” so if you’re in need of some escapism, this is your chance. Info: cabaretatelier.com.

‘The Music Man’

7:30 p.m. Feb. 23–24, 2 p.m. Feb. 25, McIntyre Hall, 2501 E. College Way

As anyone who’s ever attended a musical theater showcase can tell you, “The Music Man” is a tried-and-true classic. This six-time Tony-winning musical has been charming audiences since 1957, and now the Skagit Valley College music department is bringing it to the stage in Mount Vernon. 

For those unfamiliar, “The Music Man” tells the story of Harold Hill, a conman who tricks the town of River City, Iowa, into investing in a boy’s band he promises to organize — despite being musically inept. (Why yes, “The Music Man” did inspire the iconic “Simpsons” monorail episode.)  But with the help of Marian, the town librarian, Hill turns his act around and becomes an honest man. Info: mcintyrehall.org. 

Fanny Alger, Static Water and the History of Skagit Punk

8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, Lincoln Theatre, 712 S. 1st St.

I can’t say that I’m familiar with the Skagit punk scene, but I can’t wait to learn more — especially from someone like Shane Gildnes, aka the “driving force” of the bands Stagnant Water and Fanny Alger. 

The benefits of this event are two-fold: Firstly, you’ll learn a thing or two about the history of Skagit County’s punk scene, as told by one of its key players. But most importantly, you’ll get to rock out to some very fun, very noisy local music. A forewarning to those with sensitive eardrums, however: The Lincoln’s website states, “If it’s too loud, you’re just not deaf enough yet.” Info: lincolntheatre.org.

Lager Fest

3–7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, Boundary Bay Brewery, 1105 Railroad Ave.

I love a good hazy as much as the next Bellinghamster, but let’s be honest: IPAs tend to steal the spotlight. If you’re also looking for something less bitter to sip on, join the good folks at Boundary Bay Brewery as they celebrate the first-ever Lagerfest. The event marks the release of their flagship Premium Lager, but there will also be five additional new lagers on tap to sample. 

But beer isn’t all there is to look forward to: There’s also games, food and live chainsaw carving with artist Leigh Woody. This event is free to folks 21-plus, but for a $12 VIP ticket, you gain early entrance, a meet-and-greet with the brewers and a flight of all six lagers. Who says beer festivals are limited to Oktoberfest? Info: bbaybrewery.com. 

‘Cupid’s Arrow’

9:30 p.m. Feb. 23–24, The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.

“Love Island” is great and all, but if you’re looking for entertainment value, nothing compares to The Upfront. Bellingham’s favorite improv troupe will be performing its signature dating game show for one final weekend, and if you haven’t caught it yet, don’t miss your final opportunity. 

For this performance, actors take audience suggestions to create outlandish characters who will “do anything for love,” then play matchmaker. You’ll even get a glimpse into the chosen (fictional) couple’s first date, which could end in true love — or, at the very least, make you feel better about your own worst Tinder dates. Info: theupfront.com.

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Events compiled by contributor Maya Heinselman.

All Events

Thursday, Feb. 15

Bellingham Backcountry Meetup: Discussion with Alyssa Young

6:45–9 p.m., Kulshan Brewing K2, 1538 Kentucky St.

In search of a group of people who share your interest in backcountry snow sports? Cascade Mountain Ascents guide Alyssa Young is hosting the next event at Kulshan’s K2 for backcountry enthusiasts to get together. People of all ages, goals and skill levels are welcome to join in and learn more about others in their community. Info: kulshanbrewing.com.

‘To Whom It May Concern’

7–8:30 p.m., New Prospect Theatre, 207 Prospect St.

This monthly show features individuals reading letters on stage. What type of letters, you ask? Anything from personal letters, historical letters, a communal letter written by the audience and even letters from the Whatcom Museum Archives will be featured. Musician Andy Bunn will also be in tow to share a bit of Bellingham history and stories to go along with these letters. Info: readyourletter.com.

Friday, Feb. 16

The Downtown Ghost Tour

6:30-7:45 p.m., Chuckanut Bay Distillery, 1311 Cornwall Ave.

Follow Charles Crook throughout downtown Bellingham as he guides you through the twists and turns of spooky tales hidden in history. During this short walk, learn all about ghosts — including ghost stories and ghost hunting. You can even sign up for a tarot reading from Crook himself after the tour. Info: bellinghamghosttours.com

Sound Therapy

5:30–6:30 p.m., Bloedel Donovan Park, 2214 Electric Ave.

This weekly sound therapy session is hosted by Kristi Moseley from Mystic Heart. Sit and relax as you feel the vibrations of soothing Himalayan singing bowls, gongs and bells. Remember to bring a yoga mat or blanket to keep comfortable as you find yourself getting lost in the sounds and the nature around you. Info: cob.com.

Shut Up & Write!

9:15 a.m., Village Books & Paper Dreams, 1200 11th St.

Do you write better when surrounded by other writers? Well, this weekly get-together in Village Books’ Writer’s Corner is just the place for you. Show up to write anything you desire with no pressure or unwelcome advice for a full hour or, if you’re so inclined, for even longer. Info: villagebooks.com.

Saturday, Feb. 17

Kokedama Make and Take

10 a.m., Garden Spot Nursery, 900 Alabama St.

The Japanese art of kokedama involves a ball of soil covered in moss in which a plant grows. For a $40 fee, you can discover how to plant your own kokedama and gather some tips on the best ways to help it thrive in your own home. Info: garden-spot.com.

Natasha Triplett, ‘The Blue Pickup’

4 p.m., Village Books & Paper Dreams in Lynden, 430 Front St.

Natasha Triplett is prepared to share her new picture book “The Blue Pickup” at this free children’s event. As the main character, Ju-Girl, and her Granddad fix his blue pickup, they reminisce on old memories while making new ones along the way in a heartwarming story with stunning illustrations. Info: villagebooks.com

Sunset Silent Dance

5-6:30 p.m., Taylor Dock, 900 10th St.

A silent disco is held every Friday for people looking to dance the night away. Bring your headphones or borrow a pair and tune in for this hourlong set list created just for you and your friends. People of all walks of life are welcome to come and dance as the sun sets over Bellingham Bay. Info: dancingdanacarr.com.

Monday, Feb. 19

Arts 360 ‘Elevations’ Art Show

8 a.m.–2 p.m., Cof&, 1209 Cornwall Ave.

Art 360 features the artwork of Taj Williams and Ivan Colin in their “Elevations” exhibit to celebrate Black History Month. These bold and dreamy paintings are on display at Cof& throughout the month of February and are available for purchase online if you find yourself wanting to take one home. Info: arts360.nativearts360.org.

Tuesday, Feb. 20

Bellingham Rationalish Monthly Meetup

6:30-8:30 p.m., Elizabeth Station, 1400 W. Holly St., Ste. 101

This topic for Bellingham Rationalish’s Monthly Meetup is AI, originality and creativity. Stop by to sip on your favorite drink and join some friendly, unstructured conversation about the art created by AI. Delve deeper into how AI-generated art is defined by creativity and what the authorship behind each piece is. Info: meetup.com/bellingham-rationalish-community.

Wednesday, Feb. 21

Mixed Media Whale Shark

12:30–2:30 p.m., Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St.

A workshop for all skill levels, Angela Wright will lead you to creating your own whale shark painting. With a combination of watercolor paint as the base of the figure and gouache paint as the details, Wright will take you through this step-by-step process to make a daunting task seem much easier to handle. Info: jansenartcenter.org.

Useless Information Trivia

6-8 p.m., Fringe Brewing, 5640 3rd Ave.

Visit Fringe Brewing for another week of their famed Useless Information Trivia. With just a $2 per person buy-in, test your random knowledge against other teams for the chance to win first place and take home the full pot. Grab a beer, take a seat and join in for some good old fashioned competition. Info: fringebrewing.com.

South Whatcom Storytime

10:30-11 a.m., South Whatcom Library, 10 Barn View Court

An interactive program is the perfect chance to entertain your 2- to 6-year-old for the morning. At the South Whatcom Library, your child will be able to listen and join in to various stories, songs and rhymes. Not only will they be able to vocally contribute to these activities, but they’ll also be able to join in with movements to make for some exciting ways to become involved. Info: swlfriends.org.

Thursday, Feb. 22

‘The Spirit of Harriet Tubman’

7:30 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial St.

Leslie McCurdy shares the entire life story of Harriet Tubman using Tubman’s own words in this one-woman play that she has performed all across the country. She depicts a mix of both prominent and lesser-known stories from Tubman’s life to show just how determined she was to follow her dreams. Info: mountbakertheatre.com.

Bellingham Vice City

9:30–11 p.m., The Upfront Theatre, 203 Prospect St.

If you like retro action scenes with fashionable detectives, then this “Miami Vice”-style improv show is just the production for you. Get ready to laugh until it hurts as you join in with your own suggestions to steer this hilarious group into some unique situations for them to navigate through. Info: theupfront.com.

Friday, Feb. 23

‘The Sound of Music’

7 p.m., Bellingham High School, 2020 Cornwall Ave.

Students from the Bellingham High School theatre department present the opening day for this pre-World War II classic. Join Maria and the Von Trapps as they navigate the difficulties they face after a loss in the family. Bring the whole family to watch this PG-13 rendering of this beloved musical. Info: bellingham.bellinghamschools.org.

Saturday, Feb. 24

Generations Bingo Night

5:30 p.m., The Majestic, 1027 N. Forest St.

This Luck of the Irish Bingo event serves as a fundraiser for Generations Early Learning & Family Center, a program combining an early childhood educational program with a residential care facility. Play bingo, eat dinner and get the chance to win a bonus raffle, while also helping to support the resources for this multigenerational community at the same time. Info: intergenchildcare.harnessgiving.org.

Salish Seed Swap 2024

12–3 p.m., Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship, 1207 Ellsworth St.

The Salish Seed Guild welcomes you to learn about its mission toward preserving the biodiversity of local seeds. Salish Sea gardeners will also bring their own unique seeds to share with others in the community. Don’t forget to bring your own envelopes, so you can bring your favorite seeds home. Info: salishseed.org.

Sunday, Feb. 25

Paint & Sip Fundraiser for ANT’s Rabbits

1–3:30 p.m., Downtime Taps, 1730 La Bounty Drive, Suite 11

Part of each ticket purchase for this Paint & Sip goes directly to the medical care, feed and a loving home for Animals as Natural Therapy. Specifically, four rabbits were just rescued by ANT from a hoarding situation and are looking for support. Paint your own rabbit portrait to take home while you contribute to the lives of these rabbits. Info: animalsasnaturaltherapy.org.

Before heading out to attend in-person happenings, check with individual venues to make sure the event is still taking place as scheduled.

The A-List appears weekly. To submit an event for consideration, email calendar@cascadiadaily.com.

Cocoa Laney is CDN’s lifestyle editor; reach her at cocoalaney@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 128.