From Punk to Pop local venues will rock... music, dancing, movies and more this weekend
This Week in Gorge Entertainment
By Jim Drake
Still Learning about Star Wars
I can definitely say that The Force Was Not With Me last week at Star Wars Trivia Night. But what I lacked in correct answers I gained back in having a fun and interactive learning experience that demonstrated just how deep into the Star Wars Universe trivia questions go.
What I Learned: “Just Watching the Movies” is not enough to be in the Top Tier of Winners. You’ve got to “Study Like You Have A Final Exam Tomorrow, And You Haven’t Started Chapter One Yet.” Be prepared to answer questions on actors, directors, producers, famous quote lines and soundtracks. And when I say “actors,” I mean the actual names, not just the movie character names, even if that character appeared in the film for all of 30 seconds. Also: Be able to Summarize the Number of Times Luke Skywalker has encountered Aliens that Want to Eat Him.
Don’t rest on your laurels just because you saw the first 11 films. I was in a pickle because I hadn’t seen anything on The Mandolorian or the new Bobba Fet series, or a majority of the animated series. I did, however, recently acquire a 1983 Laserdisc version of the original movie, and I’m excited to carve out some time to watch it. It’s supposed to be the closest experience to watching the original theatrical release, with no extra scenes and no modifications to the opening title screens.
Also, if you wind up going to these Trivia Events, and I’m talking to some of the older fans who actually saw the movie back in 1977, be prepared to
1) Use your phone as a technology device and
2) Bring your glasses to:
a) See the blackboard and
b) See the phone.
There is also something called a “time limit” in choosing an answer to a question. (I think it’s 15 seconds. This too played a part in keeping me constantly in 6th place.)
Trivia Nights are led by Hood River County Teen Librarian Racheal Timmons and future themes will focus on other pop culture franchises. Don’t quote me, but a Star Trek night may be making an appearance this year. So, if you’re still stuck inside due to our April Snowstorm, it might be a good idea to start studying now.
Gigs Here and There
Saturday, April 16, The Celebrators at Double Mountain in Hood River, 7-9 p.m.
Sunday, April 17, Reddy Black Trio at Bargeway Pub, The Dalles, 6-9 p.m.
Friday, April 15, F*ckn T*x D*y show with Vitamin D cover band at River City Saloon in Hood River, 9 p.m.
War of Worlds at Granada Theater
This week the 1953 movie based on H.G. Wells’ novel “War of the Worlds,” hits the Granada Theater in The Dalles on Saturday, April 16 (one showing only). When was H.G. Wells’ book published, you ask? 1898!
Big ‘Post Punk’ Show at River City April 16
A triple bill featuring Portland’s Post Punk Indie band The Prids, with Sick Wish and Ekko the Strange descends on the River City Saloon in Hood River on Saturday, April 16. Music starts at 9 p.m., $10 cover at the door. 21+ only.
Kris Deelane & The Hurt at The Ruins
It’s a Motown and Soul Revue with Kris Deelane & The Hurt coming to The Ruins in Hood River on Saturday, April 30. Expect a 10-piece band - full horn section and backup singers - bringing the dance hits. 6-9 p.m. Tickets available at https://www.tickettomato.com/event/7497
Lisa Lynne & Aryeh Frankfurter at TD Library
It’s an afternoon of Celtic Harps, Rare Instruments and Wondrous Stories from musicians Lisa Lynne and Aryeh Frankfurter on Saturday, April 23, at The Dalles Library. There’s a hands-on Harp Workshop at 1 p.m. (sign-up required) and the show starts at 4 p.m. Super interesting that one of the instruments that will possibly be on hand is the Ukrainian Bandura (mentioned a few columns back) as well as Celtic Harp, Swedish Nyckelharpa, Bouzouki and Cittern.
2021 Cemetery Tales on YouTube
The Hood River County History Museum announces that the 2021 video production of Cemetery Tales is now on YouTube. “Join a diverse cast of storytellers as they portray notable community members of the past, from the first White and Black families to settle in Hood River to the owners of the much-beloved restaurant, Jose's Taco House.” Now at 260 views, the 1 hour 16 min video is introduced by Executive Director Anna Goodwin, with video help from Big Britches Productions. Watch it at:https://youtu.be/IgZ2EGFoJsA)
Cruise-In Wednesdays
The Mid-Columbia Car Club brings back Cruise-In Wednesday Nights to Burgerville, Downtown The Dalles, from 6-9 p.m. Cool cars, Oldies Music, 50/50 Raffle and more. For more info call 541-993-3540. The above video gem was pointed out by Steve Hudson of the Car Club. It was just for the good of the order to share it. Camping will never be the same.
Author Richard Etulain at Discovery Center
The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center welcomes Oregon-based author Richard Etulain for a book signing and conversation about Etulain’s 2021 book, “Mark O. Hatfield: Oregon Statesman.” Tuesday, April 12, from 6-7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for museum members and $15 for non-members. Tickets at: gorgediscovery.org/events/mark-o-hatfield-book-signing/
On Stage
Reports are coming in that Country Star Marty Stuart graced the stage at the Granada Theater last weekend. Theater owners reported a packed house and attendees said the setlist included Merle Haggard and Bob Wills material, all with great sound from the 4-piece band. Stuart was featured in Ken Burn’s recent Country Music documentary and has played with bluegrass legend Bill Monroe and many more. Next up for the Granada Theater is the return of Billy Bob Thorton on May 8.
Flamenco show at Rockford Grange April 19
Flamenco dancer Savannah Fuentes and singer/multi-instrumentalist, Diego Amador Jr., direct from Seville, will present “Eterno, el Flamenco vive,” at the Rockford Grange Hall in Hood River on Tuesday, April 19, at 7:30 p.m. “Savannah and Diego have forged a unique artistic partnership after a successful summer tour as a duo. Eterno promises to be a dynamic and emotionally charged presentation of authentic Spanish Flamenco music and dance.”
Tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/271814413227
About the Artist
Savannah Fuentes, flamenco dancer, and producer, is the only touring artist in the Pacific Northwest region with deep connections to flamenco culture, presenting “…Real flamenco, straight and stunning,” (Regina Hackett, Seattle Post Intelligencer.) She has independently produced and danced in over 400 performances and workshops featuring internationally recognized Spanish flamenco artists, including Diego Amador Jr., Saray Munoz, and Jesus Montoya.
Savannah Fuentes was born in Seattle to parents of Puerto Rican and Irish ancestry. Her fascination with Flamenco dance (baile) and singing (cante) came to her in early childhood, fueled by watching a Flamenco performance on television “…and, although I was just a child, I felt an immediate connection to the art form.”
Ms. Fuentes considers Flamenco a lifelong study, an artistic journey she began in her late teens that continues to this day. She has studied with many notable Flamenco artists including Guadiana, Joaquin Grilo, Eva Yerbabuena, El Farru, and Isabel Bayon. Ms. Fuentes attributes her formation as an artist to her most significant mentor, Maestra Sara de Luis.
Accompanied by her notable guest artists, Savannah Fuentes tours the West Coast regularly bringing delighted audiences authentic, passionate Flamenco performance art, often performing for communities that would otherwise be unable to enjoy this unique art form.
Diego Amador Jr.
From Seville, Diego was born into flamenco royalty. His father is the celebrated flamenco pianist/composer Diego Amador and his uncles are Rafael and Raimundo Amador (Pata Negra). the 27-year-old Amador is an extraordinary multi-instrumentalist who recently released his first full-length album, Presente en el Tiempo.
From a very young age, he began performing and touring with some of Spain’s top flamenco artists, including Remedios Amaya, La Susi, Lole Montoya, Farruquito, and Joaquín Cortés. He has also worked alongside jazz greats such as Pat Metheny, Bireli Lagrene, and Charlie Haden. Known mainly as a Flamenco singer, he also plays guitar, piano, and percussion.
Paint Night in TD April 18
Imma Royal (pictured) of Nana I Ke Kumu Gallery in The Dalles hosts Paint Night on Monday, April 18, from 7-8 p.m. “Let your creativity flow and have fun in this vibrant studio.” $5 cover. More information at www.indigotravellers.net
Cider Fest returns April 30
The Hood River Hard-Pressed Cider Fest is coming to the Hood River County Fairgrounds on April 30, featuring 20 cideries, more than 40 different ciders, local music and kids activities. The Entertainment Lineup includes:
11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Quattlebaum (Southern Gent Banjo Slinger)
1:15 – 2:15 p.m. Five Letter Word feat. Megan Alder (Female Folk Americana Trio)
3 – 4:30 p.m. Lost Ox (Jam Rock)
5 – 6:30 p.m. The Night Farmers (Country/Americana)
Gorge Artist Open Studio Tour coming
The Gorge Artists Open Studios Tour returns April 22, 23, 24. The self-guided tour allows visitors access to more than 32 artists in their creative spaces. Studios will be open in Hood River, Mosier, The Dalles, Klickitat, White Salmon, Carson, and Stabler. For more information, including a map of locations visit:
https://www.gorgeartists.org/?fbclid=IwAR3LGiyuFXJAZ9ftgMq35ed7W4K5zIGQVNBQWny-eN-AWowoMpZ8CYMIYf8
Blü Egyptian Band at River City
The Blü Egyptian Band is a Jam Band from Chico, CA, combining Rock and Roll with World music to “ create an unforgettable experience.” The band’s High 5 Tour brings them to the River City Saloon in Hood River on Friday, April 22. Music starts at 8 p.m. with a $10 cover charge. 21+ only.
Easter Bunny visits The Dalles
Media Reports indicate The Easter Bunny will be hopping into The Dalles soon, with treats and photo opportunities for kids and adults:
Friday, April 15:
3-4 p.m. at Cascade Square Mall
4 p.m. at McDonald’s (West 6th St. location)
Saturday, April 16:
Easter Egg Scramble at Lewis and Clark Festival Park, 11 a.m. (Separate Scramble times for kids ages 1 to 10)
Live Music Mondays return to Everybody’s Brewing
Live Music Mondays at Everybody’s Brewing in White Salmon showcases the best in local and regional bands. Music is 6-8 p.m.
April 18: Hwy 14 (Honky Tonk Trio from Lyle)
April 25: People We Know (Jazz and Blues)
Live music at Grateful Vineyard
Live music continues at Hood River’s Grateful Vineyard. Music is from 4-6 p.m.
Sunday, April 24: Chic Preston and Kerry Williams (Jazz and Countrygrass)
Sense of Place lecture April 13
Join the Columbia Center for the Arts in Hood River for a group panel discussion on “Forests, Wildfire, Timber Wars and Finding Common Ground” on Wednesday, April 13, at 7 p.m. Guests include Jay McLaughlin, Susan Jane Brown, Les Perkins, Erin Black, and moderator Sarah Fox. Details at: https://mtadamsinstitute.org/senseofplace/
Live Music at Zim’s
Catch Live Music at Zim’s in The Dalles:
Saturday, April 16, Reddy Black Trio, 7-9 p.m.
Live music at Bargeway Pub
Bargeway Pub in The Dalles is bringing the best in local and regional music to the stage:
Wednesday, April 13, Jessie Leigh (Pop Country)
Friday, April 15, The Mutineers (Rock, Country and Punk)
Saturday, April 23, Joseph Hunter Duncan (Pop Folk)
Live Music at The Pines
Live music returns Fridays, from 6-9 p.m. at The Pines Tasting Room in Hood River.
April 15 Willie & Nelson
April 22 County Line
Live music at Working Hands Beer
Working Hands Beer in Hood River presents live music, trivia nights and more.
Open Mic: Sundays 6-8 p.m.
Wednesday, April 13, Music Bingo Trivia (70s Classic Rock Edition)
Wednesday, April 20, Music Bingo Trivia (80s Pop Edition)
Stephanie Trick & Paolo Alderighi at Civic April 25
Tickets are on sale now for “the most engaging piano duo” featuring Stephanie Trick and Paolo Alderighi at The Dalles Civic Auditorium on Monday, April 25, at 7 p.m. Critics say “this husband-and-wife team blends impeccable technique and mature musicality with humor and showmanship. As pioneers in the use of four-hands piano, they have earned widespread success with their unique arrangements of Broadway and Hollywood classics.”