That’s the nautically themed cake that Junction-based Vertu Cakes has created for the informal open-house-style party under way right now – till 6:45 – at the Admiral Theater, on the first night of the first-ever West Seattle screenings for the Seattle International Film Festival. Film #1 is getting out in about 20 minutes, and #2, “The Admiral,” starts at 7, but even if you’re not going to the movies, the doors are open and there are appetizers, sweet treats (in addition to the cake), and general festivity here at West Seattle’s historic moviehouse. SIFF director Carl Spence (a West Seattleite) has just arrived and is talking with Admiral operator Jeff Brein and entertainment director Dinah Brein-McClellan, and we’ve heard there’s been a sighting of the Seafair Pirates (who we spotted preparing their invasion plans over in one of the old Huling lots). More to come. 5:56 PM UPDATE: The pirates are invaded and are promoting the “Seafair Pirates Film Festival.” Mysteriously absent an actual date, time and venue, however.

ADDED 6:17 PM: Oh dear, the Pirates have just absconded with Carl Spence. Video/photos shortly. But at least the ceremonial ribbon-cutting happened first. Here’s a shot of their arrival:

So if you hear or see the Pirates plundering some other area of West Seattle, you know where they came from. Party continues till 6:45.

ADDED 6:39 PM: Before we make our getaway (headed next for the Skylark third-anniversary party), video of the Pirates making their getaway — last seen westbound on Admiral toward Alki.