“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.

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.

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.

  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.

  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.

Kids – time to spend those stocking-stuffer Palace Bucks!  “Rise of the Guardians” opens Friday, December 28 and runs through Thursday, January 3.

“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.

  True Story:  Several years ago Gerald and I boarded a small prop plane and were then told by the flight attendant over the loud speaker that take off would be temporarily delayed because there was an issue with the plane.