Entertainment

Hardcore Jack Reacher fans, those who have devoured all 17 books by Lee Child, are already skeptical, even disappointed, to find Tom Cruise cast as their favorite protagonist. The Reacher of Child’s books is 6’5”, 250 pounds, with sandy blond hair. So, why was Cruise cast as the ex-military hero in this movie based on Child’s 2005 novel, One Shot? He bought the rights and produced the film.

“Picasso at the Lapin Agile” plays February 7-10 Imagine Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso sitting at a bar debating the value of genius and talent. Now think of what they’d say if actor/comedian Steve Martin was feeding them lines. That’s what an audience will enjoy as Kirkwood Community College opens its first spring theatrical performance, “Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” in February.

Loyal Middle-earth dwellers and ring lovers return to the fantasy world created by J.R.R. Tolkien, and now Peter Jackson, in “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.”  Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf the Grey, and Gollum play the Palace Friday, January 25 through Thursday, February 1 at 7 pm, and Monday, January 28 at 2 pm.  “The Hobbit,” in glorious RealD 3D, is rated PG-13 runs a staggering two hours and 50 minutes.

Congratulations to Alisabeth von Presley (formerly Alisabeth Caraway) of Cedar Rapids, who played the major role of Snookie Updagraff in our 2006 production of 110 in the Shade and who was also a choreographer for that show on her selection as on of the competitors on the upcoming season of American Idol! A news release from Kirkwood Community College adds this information: On day two of the hit TV show American Idol’s 12th season, Kirkwood Community College presented one of its top voices to the world, albeit for just a brief moment.

We’re expecting large crowds this week at the Palace when “Lincoln” opens Friday, January 18 through Thursday, January 24, with shows every evening at 7 pm, and Monday at 2 pm. Daniel Day Lewis, who has twice won an Academy Award for Best Actor in “My Left Foot” (1989) and “There Will Be Blood” (2007), is again nominated for his performance as Abraham Lincoln.

  Oh, so very patient Twilight fans, and those catching it for the second, third, or fourth time – “Breaking Dawn, part 2” has arrived!  Playing Friday, January 11 through Thursday, January 17 at 7 pm nightly, and Monday, January 14 at 2 pm, Bella, Edward, and Jacob, joined by Renesmee and the whole Cullen clan, battle the Volturi in this fifth and final Twilight film.

This is a brand-new Bond with love and respect for the old Bond. ~ Roger Ebert  Bond is back!  Daniel Craig and Judi Dench take the screen this week in “Skyfall,” running Friday, January 4 through Thursday, January 10 at 7 pm every evening, and Monday, January 7 at 2 pm at the Vinton Palace.  Bond 23 is smart and sexy, filled with exhilarating action scenes.

  ACT I is holding auditions for the musical, “Drowsy Chaperone”.  It will be directed by Steve Arnold. Musical Director:  Dave Gates Rehearsal pianist:  Mary Ann Whelchel Audition dates: Saturday, January 5 – 2:00 p.m.  Sunday, January 6 – 2:00 p.m. ACT I’s new West Building site – enter by 905 E Ave door 9 to 13 male roles – must be able to play 20 years old or older – 2 are non-singing 5 to 9 female roles – must be able to play 20 years old or older Rehearsals will be held at the ACT I West Building location – rehearsal dates and times will be available at auditions Performance dates:  March 1, 2 and 3                                   March 8, 9 and 10 Location:  Palace Theatre “Drowsy Chaperone” is a musical comedy.

Kids – time to spend those stocking-stuffer Palace Bucks!  “Rise of the Guardians” opens Friday, December 28 and runs through Thursday, January 3.  The Palace also has three special matinees scheduled – Saturday, December 29 and Monday, December 31 at 2 pm, and Wednesday, January 2 at 4 pm.   Santa, Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, Jack Frost, and several more guardians of childhood are featured in this fast-paced, hilarious, 3D adventure.

“Cloud Atlas” plays the Palace Friday through Sunday, December 21-23, and Wednesday and Thursday, December 26 and 27 at 7 p.m. There are no shows on Christmas Eve or Christmas. I’ve been reading about this film for several weeks, and still have no real handle on the storyline.  Recently, Palace projectionist Will Hancock and I stood in the back of the auditorium together as the trailer played, collecting seat savers, and agreed – the multiple character-time traveling premise is intriguing.