Locally made horror film to premiere at Empire

Fresh off its Best Horror Feature win at the New York International Film Festival, "Exscind," which was shot outside McVille, N.D., will have its local premiere Saturday night in the Empire Arts Center.

The horror film, produced by Grand Forks-based Fat Cat Productions, follows a group of paranormal investigators as they turn their attention to a house made notorious for the violent murders committed there 50 years prior. Things turn south for the investigators as day turns into night. As the film's tagline says, "Some things are better left alone."

"Exscind," which clocks in with a running time of one hour and 20 minutes, does not have an MPAA rating, but the poster says it "has not been rated R yet," due to the film's strong language and violence.

Grand Forks native Les Sholes, who co-owns Fat Cat Productions with his wife, Donna Wolfe-Sholes, wrote and directed "Exscind." The film stars Dave Andrews, Amy Byzewski, Mark Diers, Louie Babcock and Eric Goodrie, among others.

The filmmakers are turning the premiere into a one-of-a-kind event for Grand Forks. It will include a red carpet, pictures in front of an "Exscind" backdrop, a meet-and-greet with the cast, free concessions (popcorn, candy and beverages) and an opportunity to win door prizes.

After the screening of the film, the event continues for ticket holders with an after party, which will include live music, free food and a cash bar.

There are two showtimes for the premiere, 6 and 9 p.m. Saturday; the doors will open 30 minutes before both showtimes, and the after party will happen after both showings.

Tickets are $57. They will be sold at the door and also can be purchased in advance online through Ticketmaster or at the Chester Fritz Auditorium box office.

• What: "Exscind" premiere.

• When: 6 and 9 p.m. Saturday.

• Where: Empire Arts Center, 415 DeMers Ave.

• Cost: $57.

• Info: exscindmovie.com.

Pirates and princesses parties

The East Grand Forks Campbell Library will host two "pirates and princesses" parties for kids Saturday, complete with themed activities, storytime and a light snack. Pre-registration is required.

• What: Pirates and princesses parties.

• When: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday.

• Where: East Grand Forks Campbell Library, 422 Fourth Street N.W.

• Cost: Free.

• Info: (218) 773-9121.

Truyu open house

Truyu Aesthetic Center will host a summer open house featuring demonstrations, refreshments, door prizes and vouchers for nonsurgical services.

• What: Truyu open house.

• When: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday.

• Where: Truyu Aesthetic Center, 3165 DeMers Ave.

• Cost: Free to attend; services and products available to purchase.

• Info: truyu.net.

Quick Feet

Team Kofstad will host its annual Quick Feet 5K, a fun run/walk with all proceeds going to the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Saturday.

• What: Quick Feet 5K.

• When: 10 a.m. Saturday.

• Where: East Grand Forks VFW Arena, 711 Third Street S.E.

• Cost: $29.92 for adults, $25.92 for children 12 and younger.

• Info: Find Team Kofstad on Facebook.

'Arsenic and Old Lace'

The Greater Grand Forks Community Theatre is staging a production of the classic play "Arsenic and Old Lace," which tells the story of the Brewster sisters, who have a unique method of getting rid of their suitors once interest wains.

• What: "Arsenic and Old Lace."

• When: 7:30 p.m. today and Saturday.

• Where: Fire Hall Theatre, 412 Second Ave. N.

• Cost: $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, students, military and visiting Canadians.

• Info: (701) 777-4090.

1/3: Cast and crew shoot a scene for "Exscind." (Submitted photo)

2/3: "Exscind" actors and crew members block a shot for scene two of the film. (Submitted photo)

3/3: A clapperboard is set for a scene in "Exscind." (Submitted photo)