Arts & Entertainment
- Barlow Gallery Hosts “My Tacoma” Opening Reception for Artist Davis Freeman
- Barlow Gallery is proud to present “My Tacoma”, an evocative collection of environmental portraits by nationally renowned photographer Davis Freeman. This striking exhibition showcases the vibrant people of Tacoma, captured in the personal spaces that define them. We invite art enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the power of photography to join us for the opening reception on April 4, 2025 from 5-7pm. Connect with Davis, enjoy music by guitarist Tim Bertsch, and shop the gallery. This event is free and open to the public.
RSVP on Eventbrite
- Barlow Gallery is proud to present “My Tacoma”, an evocative collection of environmental portraits by nationally renowned photographer Davis Freeman. This striking exhibition showcases the vibrant people of Tacoma, captured in the personal spaces that define them. We invite art enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the power of photography to join us for the opening reception on April 4, 2025 from 5-7pm. Connect with Davis, enjoy music by guitarist Tim Bertsch, and shop the gallery. This event is free and open to the public.
- On and Off the Page Discussion to be Held by Art Director of the New Yorker Magazine
- On April 3rd, the art director for the New Yorker Magazine, Supriya Kalidas, will lead a conversation titled On and Off the Page – and discuss various aspects of smart and intentional storytelling and about how AI is transforming the field. What does smart and intentional storytelling look like both on the page and in rooms where stories are hatched? One of my favorite things about magazine journalism today is the open question of what a magazine is—or what a magazine could be. In an ever-changing media landscape, it is more important than ever to focus on creating experiences that are not only platform agnostic but also platform elastic. Daily, the question I try to answer is this: How can I create an emotional response by using the tools at my disposal? This discussion will be held at 5:30pm in Kittredge Gallery at UPS. This event is sponsored by Art+Science and the Art & Art History Departments.
- Bloomsday: A Time-Travel Love Story Review by Jennifer Schaal
- If you could give your younger self life-changing advice, what would you say? This tag line, for the Dukesbay Theater production of Stephen Dietz’s Bloomsday, says it all. A young man and woman meet at event in Dublin that celebrates the annual James Joyce “Ulysses” day, and–like the James Joyce character Molly Bloom–fall in love but take a path that separates them and leaves them alone in life. The play has younger couple’s adult selves come back through time to tell them what could have been if they had only taken a different path. Four wonderful actors bring Bloomsday to life. Katy Jones and Trevor Owens play the younger Caithleen and Robert, while Nicole Lockett and John Gonzalez play the older Cait and Robbie. They easily fill the theater space with the warmth and emotion of what was, what could have been, and the late-in-life wisdom of how fear and pride can keep you from following your heart to happiness. Producers Randy Clark and Aya Hashiguchi Clark saw the play’s 2015 world premier at ACT Theatre, loved its interplay between moments of memory and wishful fantasy, and realized the play would be a perfect fit for Dukesbay’s production space. Dukesbay Theatre is a cozy black box theater upstairs in the Merlino Center where guests are welcomed warmly with coffee and cookies and seated in rows that flank the play’s set. Most Dukesbay showings fill most of its seats or sell out completely. Bloomsday runs through April 6, with two more weekends of opportunity to see this lovely play. Friday and Saturday performances start at 7:30pm and Sunday performances at 2:00pm. Tickets at https://dukesbay.org
- Upcoming Community Ceramics Courses Coming to University of Puget Sound
- This introductory six-week course, taught by Puget Sound ceramics instructor Ronda Peck, will provide basic fundamentals on the spectacular possibilities of creating ceramic forms by both wheel and hand building methods. The course fee is $310, plus a $10 registration fee (materials included in course fee). Introduction to Ceramics: Section 1: Friday evenings from 6 – 8:30 p.m., April 18 – May 23, 2025. Section 2: Saturday mornings, 10:00 am – 12:30 pm, April 19 – May 24, 2025. For more information and registration, see here.
- Academy Award Winning Bollywood Composer from “Slumdog Millionaire” Brings Live Concert to Tacoma Dome
- Internationally acclaimed composer and artist A.R. Rahman is bringing his new immersive live concert, The Wonderment Tour, to North America. The 16-date tour includes a stop at the Tacoma Dome on July 20. Rahman, known for composing music for over 150 films and selling an estimated 200 million records, is renowned for revolutionizing Indian cinema’s music. His achievements include two Academy Awards for Slumdog Millionaire and numerous other prestigious honors. The Wonderment Tour blends classical Indian traditions with modern electronic sounds, offering a unique experience with cutting-edge visuals, orchestrations, and immersive storytelling. The concert will feature Rahman’s iconic hits, including “Jai Ho,” “Chaiyya Chaiyya,” and “Uyire,” in multiple languages, bridging cultures through music. For more details, visit www.arrahman.com. Tickets on sale March 28th, 2025.
- Want to Learn How to Sew? Tacoma Tool Library Can Make It So
- Make-it Sew is now held at Tacoma Public Library Main Branch on the 2nd floor in the Mixing Chamber. The hours are Tuesdays from 6pm – 7:30pm. The entrance is in the alley at 1100 Court F. Enter through the gated door. Starting Tuesday 3/18 Make-it Sew is EVERY Tuesday!! They teach participants how to use a sewing machine on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month (you can still do self-directed projects these days, too!) The 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesdays are 100% self-directed. Come use all our materials for free, including sewing machines, fabric, patterns, large cutting tables, ironing stations and all kinds of sewing notions. We welcome participants to use this time to be social finding others of like mind who enjoying sewing and fiber arts. Find more information here.
Neighborhood News
- I-705 Closures for Maintenance Also Removing Homeless Encampments From the Area
- The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has had some interstate ramps closed (through today) for maintenance including northbound I-705 and SR-509 on-ramps. During this time, WSDOT is also cooperating with the City of Tacoma to remove homeless encampments in the area. This includes graffiti removal, pavement repairs, vegetation management, and sign maintenance. WSDOT has previously removed encampments here, citing safety concerns, and plans to place boulders to prevent future camping. The city’s Homeless Engagement Alternatives Liaison (HEAL) team has been offering outreach services, and as of March 25, all six individuals in the area were contacted, with one successfully placed in housing. There were no unhoused individuals remaining in the work zone.
- Broadway Has No Leases Available, Development Company Aims to Improve Surrounding Blocks
- A development company is requesting a $1.8 million loan from the city of Tacoma to renovate 78 residential units and nine retail spaces in downtown Tacoma as part of the Rialto redevelopment project. Led by Seattle-based Urban Black and partner Great Expectations LLC, the project aims to revitalize three existing buildings on St. Helens Avenue and South 9th Street. The apartments will target residents earning 30%-50% of the area median income, including frontline workers, seniors, veterans, and students. The loan will cover costs like architectural fees, permits, renovations, and other associated expenses. The developers hope to have rental units available by September, with full completion expected by October. The project aims to breathe life into the area, which has had boarded-up buildings for years. A new convenience store is planned for the old Candy Mart location, and commercial spaces may attract small local businesses rather than franchises. Tacoma’s leaders support the project, seeing it as a way to further downtown revitalization. The city is reviewing the loan request, and Pierce County has pledged $1 million to the project. Urban Black, known for its mission-based approach to development, hopes to attract diverse small business owners and affordable housing tenants to the area. Full occupancy of retail spaces is expected by mid-2026.
Local Governance
- If You’re Looking to Renew a License, Go By March 30th or After April 1st
- The Tacoma Licensing Office is relocating to 2310 Mildred St W #119 in University Place on March 31st. They expect the relocation to only take one day resuming operations April 1st. Their regular hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5:30pm, and Saturday 9am to 12:00pm. License renewals and tab pickup will be unavailable during the closure. If you do need services during this time you can access the Pierce County Auditor’s Office or one of nine subagent locations.
- Pilot Programs Wants to Pay Jurors $100/day
- As part of a pilot program, jurors will receive $100 per day for their jury service instead of the usual $10 per day.
The increased pay is for all jurors who serve in Pierce County Superior Court, District Court, and Tacoma Municipal Court. Your jury participation is essential to our justice system!
- As part of a pilot program, jurors will receive $100 per day for their jury service instead of the usual $10 per day.
- Parks Tacoma is Recruiting Advisory Council Members
- Parks Tacoma would like you to bring your passion for sports, community health and wellness, fitness and aquatics to influence the park district’s programs and facility services for all ages. The active lifestyles and community wellness advisory council is made up of volunteers who serve in an advisory capacity, making recommendations to staff and the Board of Park Commissioners. You can apply here.
- Grab Coffee With Council Member John Hines Saturday March 29th
- Coffee with Council Member John Hines is This weekend! Join on Saturday, March 29, 2025, to share your perspectives about City programs and policies. The event will be held at the Swasey Library (7001 6th Avenue), from 10 – 11:30 AM. Attend to share your hopes for Tacoma’s future!
- E-Bike Rebate Pilot Programs Launching in April
- There are two e-bike rebate programs launching in April from Washington State & the City of Tacoma! You could receive a $300 or $1,200 instant rebate to purchase an e-bike, based on your household income. Apply once and you’ll be automatically entered into one or both programs based on your eligibility. Help spread the word about this exciting opportunity! Stay tuned for more details soon – and sign up for program updates at www.cityoftacoma.org/ebikes. Funding for this program comes from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act!
- There are two e-bike rebate programs launching in April from Washington State & the City of Tacoma! You could receive a $300 or $1,200 instant rebate to purchase an e-bike, based on your household income. Apply once and you’ll be automatically entered into one or both programs based on your eligibility. Help spread the word about this exciting opportunity! Stay tuned for more details soon – and sign up for program updates at www.cityoftacoma.org/ebikes. Funding for this program comes from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act!
Business & Opportunities
- Tahoma Unitarian Universalism Making Call for Artists of Art and Words
- The “Your Art Speaks” exhibit at the Mary Boze Gallery, Tahoma UU Congregation is making a call for artists. This will be an exhibit of art and words that you may combine as you wish. The show will be judged for space and appropriateness. They advise to look up Unitarian Universalism for more information. The tentative show dates are this fall from September 10th – November 12th. If you have questions you may reach out to Patty McPhee at [email protected].
A Word From Our Sponsors:
Recreation & Wellness
- Step Into Spring with the 2025 Walk Tacoma Series!
- Tacoma, WASH – Downtown On the Go is thrilled to launch another spectacular season of Walk Tacoma—the ultimate way to explore the city on foot! Get ready for an inspiring, energizing, and unforgettable series of guided walks that shine a spotlight on Tacoma’s rich cultural history, vibrant public spaces, and thriving neighborhood business districts. From fascinating stories of the past to exciting visions for the future, each walk will offer a fresh perspective on the places that make Tacoma truly special. The series kicks off on April 16 in the Stadium District, where participants will highlight how the T-Link has shaped local businesses along Division Avenue and 6th Avenue, with Wright Park serving as a central hub. Walk leaders include former Tacoma Mayor Bill Baarsma, along with speakers from Sound Transit and Parks Tacoma, who will share insights on the evolving landscape of this historic neighborhood and its connections to Tacoma’s expanding transit network. Lace up your most comfortable shoes and join us for an adventure through the city we call home! For more information on the full 2025 Walk Tacoma Series and how to register, visit www.downtownonthego.org or find us on Facebook and Instagram.
- 2025 – 2026 Hunting and Fishing Licenses are Available Now
- If you’re a hunter or angler daydreaming about your next big season, you can take that next step now since the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has made 2025 license year products available. Those products include hunting and fishing licenses, as well as special hunt and Multi-season applications for this upcoming season. Items for the 2025 license year are valid from April 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026.
- Movement Workshop to Explore Grief at Crescent Moon Gifts
- In collaboration with Crescent Moon Gifts, dancer and death doula V will be hosting a movement intensive workshop called Das Beist. The workshop will mix movement, journaling and discussion to explore the topic of grief. Participants will be encouraged to discuss difficult topics. Sharing is not mandatory, but it is encouraged to bring comfort items like snacks, blankets or the like. This workshop is March 29th 2-6pm at Crescent Moon Gifts. Learn more here.
- The Tacoma Rainiers are Back! Season Opener 3/28
- The Tacoma Rainiers Opening Day 2025 kicks off with an electric matchup against the Round Rock Express. Come for the baseball, stay for the fireworks, and celebrate the return of another season for our Hometown Team. Get tickets here.
Film & TV Reviews
- Quickie Film Review by Elizabeth Mulloy: Opus
- Opus has the foundations for a fascinating horror film about celebrity cults, but sadly falls woefully flat as it doesn’t do anything interesting with its foundations. By simply watching the trailer for Opus, you know exactly where the film is heading as it follows the predictable path that films such as Get Out, Midsommar, The Menu and Saltburn have forged. Yet, those films at least had some personality to them, while Opus is overwhelmingly basic. It has some interesting themes that it is juggling around, it just doesn’t do anything interesting with them as other films have tackled the same themes but in much more interesting execution. Not even the performances from Ayo Edebiri and John Malkovich could save how undercooked this film is. With that stated, the film is at least entertaining and there are some great moments of suspense, showing that director Mark Anthony Green does have some potential for greatness. Overall, Opus is an entertaining but shallow film about celebrity cults. My Rating: C+
- Quickie Film Review by Elizabeth Mulloy: Black Bag
- With a brisk runtime of just 93 minutes, Steven Soderbergh and his team maintain a relentless pace in their latest film, Black Bag. Drawing clear inspiration from high-stakes espionage thrillers like Mission: Impossible and The Hunt for Red October, Soderbergh crafts a tightly wound, meticulous spy drama that balances global stakes with an intensely personal conflict. At the heart of the film is the volatile marriage of two elite spies—both under suspicion—played with razor-sharp precision by Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett. As their characters navigate a perilous web of deception, the film becomes a captivating dance of intellect, observation, and seduction, where trust is a weapon and betrayal is inevitable. While Black Bag isn’t flawless, its sheer energy and stylish execution make for an effortlessly thrilling ride. My Rating: B
- Quickie Film Review by Elizabeth Mulloy: Novocain
- Action comedies often blur together, making them one of the most forgettable genres—but that’s not the case with Dan Berk and Robert Olsen’s Novocaine. This film is an absolute blast from start to finish, injecting fresh energy into the genre with its clever premise and sharp execution. At the center of the chaos is Nathan, played with effortless charm by Jack Quaid, whose inability to feel pain turns every injury into a grotesque yet hilariously over-the-top spectacle. Each fight scene is packed with witty banter, absurd booby traps, and expertly placed Chekhov’s guns, making for a wildly entertaining experience. That said, Novocaine isn’t without its flaws. The narrative is a bit thin, and the final act overstays its welcome by about 15 minutes. But despite these minor missteps, the film never loses sight of its fun, self-aware tone. With its mix of sharp humor and inventive action, Novocaine is a riotous ride that stands out in a crowded genre. My Rating: B+
Screenshots: We Scrolled So You Don’t Have To…
