I can’t be the only ex-Texan in Seattle who jumped for joy upon discovering that Linda’s Tavern now has Shiner Bock—the Lone Star State’s best brew—on tap. Take a friend, get a pitcher, then stroll to the nearby Egyptian cinema for a screening of Volver, Pedro Almodóvar‘s typically rich and wonderful rumination on mothers, daughters, ghosts, incest, and the vast lusciousness of Penélope Cruz. (Linda’s Tavern, 707 E Pine St, 206-325-1220; Egyptian Theatre, 801 E Pine St, 206-781-5755.)

David Schmader—former weed columnist and Stranger associate editor—is the author of the solo plays Straight and Letter to Axl, which he’s performed in Seattle and across the US. His latest...