By Shawn D. Allison, II
Yo, what’s the word family? It’s been a hilariously wild week and thanks once again to Black ingenuity, we now can now barbecue in peace. But before we fire up the grill, take a gander at all the flyness going down in the QC this weekend! Yours truly, The Black Ferris Bueller, has been hitting the street and online pavement hard and I’ve found all sorts of goodies to get into! This is looking to be an extremely busy weekend for me, but if you want to tag along, feel free to check out all the choices on my “Hot List” just below.
- THURSDAY – Star Wars Trivia Night at NoDa Brewing Co.
- THURSDAY – SATURDAY – Three Bone Theatre presents “Every Little Thing” at Duke Energy Theater
- THURSDAY — Common Market LIVE! feat. Nige Hood & The Folk Rap Band
- FRIDAY – “Science On the Rocks: Don’t Try This At Home!” at The Discovery Place
- FRIDAY – Friday Nights/Culture Kick Back at Camp North End
- FRIDAY — This Is Art | This Is Public Health 2018 Spring Exhibition at Queens University
- FRIDAY – SUNDAY – Opera Carolina presents “I Dream: The Story of a Preacher From Atlanta” at The Knight Theater
- FRIDAY – Planet Funksville Radio’s “Friday Night House Party”
- SATURDAY – Heal Charlotte and NEWGEN Peace Builders presents the 2nd Annual Culture Day Celebration
- SATURDAY — Things Get Solved When You Get Involved Charity Benefit hosted by DJ Johnny “Juice” Rosado at Hickory Grove Recreational Center
- SATURDAY – Pop-Up Shop & Networking Brunch at Venue @ 1801
- SATURDAY – Funny Side Up Comedy Brunch at The Comedy Zone
- SATURDAY – RomareFest 2018 at Romare Bearden Park
- SATURDAY – “Blogging Meets Fashion” Social at The Imperial
- SATURDAY – AfroPop! – Vol. 21 at The Morehead Tavern
- SUNDAY — 4th Annual Queen City Naturals in the Park at Independence Park
- SUNDAY – Starving Artist Market at Charlotte Art League
If you would like your event to be listed in “The Rundown” please send a detailed e-mail to me at: sdallison85@yahoo.com
——-THURSDAY, MAY 17——-
Calling all film enthusiasts – The 100 Words Film Festival invites you out to Google Fiber CLT for a special Expert Filmmakers & Acting Seminar this evening. Get engaged and come network with other filmmakers and hear some words of wisdom from famed actor Rob Trevelier of “Sully”, “The Accountant” and the hit TV series “Ozark”, giving some insight into the world of production. Admission is FREE to attend and the restaurant Carpe Diem will be catering some complimentary food. 5:30 p.m. Google Fiber CLT is located at 301 E. 7th St. in Uptown.
This evening, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is pleased to present to you the May installment of their Modernism + Film Series. Today’s screening takes a look at the aptly-titled picturesque documentary, “Raw Beauty.” In 1906, Dr. Morgenthaler, a psychiatrist at Bern Psychiatric Hospital, started to collect and photograph the drawings, paintings and various objects designed by his patients. This collection of works by schizophrenic artists would later prove an important contribution to art history and the history of “Art Brut” or “Outsider Art”: work by artists who have been deemed obsessive, mentally or psychologically ill, or otherwise “abnormal.” Filmmaker Herve Nisic investigates the history of and ongoing fascination with “Art Brut” artists featuring footage and exclusive interviews from other notable artists. Tickets can be purchased here: https://30796a.blackbaudhosting.com/30796a/tickets?tab=2&txobjid=1f302839-5bb1-4c06-b362-d9b473528111. The film will begin at 6 p.m. The Bechtler is located at 420 S. Tryon St. in Uptown.
Attention all Jedi Knights, Sith Lords and Rebels – everyone hop in the Millennium Falcon, travel twelve parsecs over to NoDa Brewing Co. and get ready for Star Wars Trivia Night! Test your knowledge of The Force among other Stormtroopers across the entire Star Wars galaxy for a chance to win cool prizes and bragging rights! Grab your friends, some grub from The TIN Kitchen and grab a hold of something as you blast off to lightspeed at 6 p.m. sharp! 2921 N. Tryon St. in the NoDa District.
The Recharge Project is proud to present The Charlotte LinkedIn Local this evening. Come and tap into your local LinkedIn connections with a purpose to give you the opportunity to network with your local individuals in an upscale and classy environment. The event will be hosted by Arletha McClelland and Teresa Bryant-Parks. Hors d’oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/linkedin-local-clt-tickets-44817976775. The event will begin at 6 p.m. at Hampton Inn & Suites. 11935 N. Community House Rd. in Ballantyne.
Race Matters for Juvenile Justice invites you out for another installment of their 2018 Speakers Bureau Community Presentation Series this evening. For tonight’s topic, you will get a front seat dialogue as become engaged in the School to Prison Pipeline discussion. Admission is FREE and open to the public. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Hawthorne Academy of Health Sciences. 1411 Hawthorne Ln. in the Plaza-Midwood District.
Charlotte, get ready and welcome the multitalented and Grammy Award-winning PJ Morton to our city this evening! PJ Morton is an established keyboardist and vocalist who plays in the successful pop-rock band Maroon 5 with some rich vocals to summit his musicianship. Presenting a very vivid and colorful concert, you’ll be sure to remain in awe well after the curtain falls! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1667048?utm_medium=ampOfficialEvent&utm_source=fbTfly. Doors open at 7 and the show starts at 8 p.m. at The Neighborhood Theater. 511 E. 36th St. in the NoDa District.
Three Bone Theatre is back for a special and hilarious Spring production entitled, “Every Brilliant Thing.” The girl is seven. Mom’s in the hospital and finds it hard to be happy. The girl starts a list of everything that’s brilliant about the world. Everything that’s worth living for. The list takes on a life of its own as the girl grows up, facing her own challenges with mental illness. In this remarkable one-woman show, the audience is enlisted as co-conspirators in the plot to celebrate life. EVERY BRILLIANT THING is more than a play about depression, it’s a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience about the lengths we will go to for those we love. Robin Tynes directs the piece starring award-winning Charlotte comedienne, Tania Kelly. This production is recommended for ages 14+. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.carolinatix.org/events/detail/every-brilliant-thing-by-duncan-macmillan. There will be three performances this weekend: Thursday (5/17), Friday (5/18) and Saturday (5/19) all beginning promptly at 8 p.m. All shows will be held at the Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square. 345 N. College St. in Uptown.
Jazz N’ Soul Music is ready to start your weekend off at The Morehead Tavern presenting Uptown Thursday Night Soul Series! Take a load off tonight as The Shana Blake Band soothes you with her blue-eyed soulful vocals and a fire-hot instrumental section playing some Funk, Soul, R&B, The Blues, Reggae and some molasses-dripping Southern Rock. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/uptown-thursday-night-soul-series-the-shana-blake-band-tickets-46041277701. Showtime is at 8 p.m. 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown.
For some Thursday night alternative Hip Hop flavor, slide over to Plaza-Midwood’s most beloved hangout spots, Common Market and get ready for a special concert entitled Common Market LIVE! feat. Nige Hood & The Folk Rap Band! Nige Hood is one of Charlotte’s most innovative emcees fusing a cornucopia of sonic dexterity with lyrical wit packed into an unbelievably awe-inspiring showcase! Also, joining him this evening are local fire spitters Indigo Jo, Jah-Monte Ogbon and #Bleus. Admission is FREE to attend and the party gets rockin’ at 8 p.m. Common Market is located at 2007 Commonwealth Ave. in the Plaza-Midwood District.
——-FRIDAY, MAY 18——-
Ladies, join The Ebony Diaries this afternoon for a specially-designed forum for you entitled, BLACK GIRL VIBEZ | The Self-Love Series. BLACK GIRL VIBEZ is a series created to provide a safe space for Black women to discuss the ins and outs of self-love, share experiences, and to connect with other women of color within the community. You will learn fundamental ways to love yourself through life challenges, own your truth, and not allowing them to define you. Bring yourselves and your sisters for an intimate girl talk, as you support, encourage and inspire one another. Admission is FREE but please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-girl-vibez-the-self-love-series-tickets-44893788530. Also, please be sure to leave a donation. The event will begin at 4 p.m. at Hygge Coworking West. 2128 Remount Rd.
Ever wondered if you disregarded cautions and tried certain experiments and feats at home? Tonight, you get that chance! Bring all your mischievous friends down to The Discovery Place for another fun night of adult-themed experimentations at the wildly-popular, “Science On the Rocks: Don’t Try This At Home!” Come for an adults-only night to try things that combine fear with fun — licking a battery, touching a jellyfish, testing pop rocks with soda, getting electrified by Tesla coils and much more! Trust me, the risk will be worth the reward. Tickets can be purchased here: https://15106a.blackbaudhosting.com/15106a/tickets?tab=2&txobjid=bf5f7481-3708-44e3-8c67-d976c5693554&property=dps&property=dps&_ga=2.166847677.288585028.1526398579-1093272705.1526398579. The fun starts at 5 p.m. sharp and you must have proper I.D. to participate. 301 N. Tryon St. in Uptown.
Mecklenburg County Public Health has partnered with Behailu Academy, CMS Arts, Queens University along with local activist and artist Bree Stallings to proudly present the “This Is Art | This Is Public Health 2018 Spring Exhibition” this evening. This creative and colorful showcase will feature artwork and performances informed and inspired by the public health work in Mecklenburg County and the lived experiences of youth and their communities. Spotlighted artistic pieces include visual arts, dance, and spoken word to name a few. Admission is FREE and open to the public but please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/this-is-art-this-is-public-health-spring-2018-showcase-tickets-44202213009. The showcase will begin at 6 p.m. at Queens University. 1900 Selwyn Ave. in the Myers Park Neighborhood.
Give your taste buds some of that down home goodness at the Southern Soul Food & Cider Dinner this evening! The Gourmand Chef and Red Clay Ciderworks are at it again and this time they are going to bring the menu back home to NC with a hearty selection of foods that have created a culinary tapestry entrenched in rich American traditions. Tonight, a classically trained chef will be presenting this humble food in an upscale and elegant fashion giving your palates a glimpse into the past and present. Menu options and tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/southern-soul-food-cider-tickets-43933011821. The event will begin at 7:30 p.m. at Red Clay Ciderworks. 245 Clanton Rd. in Historic South End.
This weekend, enjoy a theatrical treat as Opera Carolina proudly presents the riveting stage production, “I Dream: The Story of a Preacher From Atlanta.” Set over the final 36 hours of Dr. King’s life, “I Dream” celebrates the man, his inner struggles and the movement he championed. This very human story looks back on the early days of the movement that would reshape America and transform the preacher from Atlanta into an American icon. “I Dream”, the rhythm & blues opera by Douglas Tappin, is being produced for the 50th commemoration of Dr. King’s assassination and coincides with the 55th anniversary of his historic March on Washington. Using opera, jazz and popular musical styles, composer/librettist Tappin honors the man and the legend who became almost mythical in his pursuit of a dream. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.carolinatix.org/events/detail/opera-carolina-i-dream. There will be three performances this weekend: Friday (5/18) and Saturday (5/19) at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday (5/20) at 2 p.m. All shows will be held at the Knight Theater. 430 S. Tryon St. in Uptown.
Bring all your friends out to Camp North End for two types of fun this evening! First up, get your souls stirred with a live performance from Quentin Talley & the Soul Providers! Next, sit back, relax and come out to the Culture Kick Back & Pop-Up Shop! Enjoy some delicious and authentic Afro-Caribbean foods, vendors, hookah, an oxygen bar and fly tunes from my brother DJ Steel Wheel! Admission to both events is FREE and everyone is welcome. 5 p.m. Camp North End is located at 1824 Statesville Ave.
Moxie Society is ready to kick your weekend off on a cool, relaxing note presenting Havana Nights this evening! Join one of Charlotte’s finest leisure firms as they turn the heat up with positive vibes, fresh-rolled Cuban cigars and delightful Mojito specials to put yourselves at ease. And for your audible amusement, Charlotte’s own DJ Shogun will blend some spicy, classic and contemporary Hip Hop and R&B jams to enhance your experience! Admission is FREE and the dress code is mature and classy. 8 p.m. at Secret Society Cigar Lounge. 2415 W. Morehead St. near Uptown.
Come and get down old school style as Planet Funksville Radio is proud to present the Friday Night House Party! It’s all things community as my brother DJ B-1 spins the night away with a fresh mix of classic Hip Hop, R&B, Soul, House, Pop and much more! And while the music is playing, get your play time in with your friends in a few rounds of Spades and Dominoes, enjoy some food, drinks and scoop up some merchandise from local vendors! Admission is $5 per person. The party starts at 9 p.m. 311 W. 24th St.
Jazz N’ Soul is back to add some fun to your Friday with the lovely songstress Jackie O’ & The Groove Masters Band! Searing and soulful vocals backed by a magnificent rhythm machine, it’s sure to bring quite a delight to your Friday night! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jackie-o-and-the-groovemasters-band-friday-may-18th-tickets-45884615119. The show starts promptly at 9 p.m. at The Morehead Tavern. 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown. #JazzNSoulMusic
Get a taste of some vibrant world music at Snug Harbor this evening as GLBL presents La Nueva Sensacion! Translated to The New Sensation, La Nueva Sensacion is a musical group that has been shaped by talented musicians, who through a cultural journey, have managed to add some Latin flavor from various countries in North and South America. They have also added a fresh spin of their Latin roots, remixing sounds such as the bachata and merengue from the Dominican Republic, the cumbia and boleros of Ecuador and Peru, the salsa, merengue and cumbia of Guatemala and many more! Joining them will be Charlotte-based Latin pop band MoFunGo and The Dynamic DJ Kato giving an Afrocentric spin on the 1s and 2s. Tickets can be purchased here: http://snugrock.tunestub.com/event.cfm?cart&id=280910. Showtime is at 10 p.m. Snug Harbor is located at 1228 Gordon St. in the Plaza-Midwood District.
——-SATURDAY, MAY 19——-
Young Brothers, gather up your friends and join the mighty men of T.I.M.E. (Taking Initiative Moving Efficiently) for the M.E.N. – Mentor Empowerment Network Summit this morning. This seminar is geared towards equipping young men with tools, resources and skills to be successful. Also, you will learn how to compete in life through dining sessions, life journals, physical team activities, hearing words of wisdom from guest speakers, giveaways and much more. Admission is FREE but please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/time-university-presents-men-mentor-empowerment-network-summit-saturday-may-19-charlotte-nc-tickets-44695119305. The event will begin at 9 a.m. at Independence High School. 1967 Patriot Dr.
Ladies, rise, shine and head down to First Ward Park and get ready for the #GETWAISTED Fitness Boot Camp! Hosted by The Olivia Yvette Collection, this one-hour intense fitness boot camp will feature cardio, Hip Hop dancing a live DJ and more! Also, on Sunday (5/20), come out for a light, early morning yoga session to stretch and refresh those muscles. There will be a complimentary outdoor healthy food brunch, raffle giveaway, vendors and free massages for all two-day participants. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-waisted-fitness-bootcamp-tickets-45528609296. Both sessions will begin at 9 a.m. First Ward Park is located at 301 E. 7th St. in Uptown.
Parents, take the youth on a short drive to nearby Gastonia and bring the out to the 2nd Annual Science in The Park Festival this morning! Presented by the eSTEAM Club, this outdoor science festival features activities for all ages. Come and get engaged with robotics, games, science experiments, tournaments and lots more! Admission is FREE but please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/science-in-the-park-tickets-39367063948. The event will begin at 10 a.m. at Bradley Community Center. 1200 Modena St. in Gastonia.
Join Moxie Society once again as they set your Saturday off with another installment of their “I Still Love the 90s Brunch & Day Party!” Before you get your day started, come and party with a host of Charlotte’s progressives, enjoy a truly delicious Southern-inspired brunch menu, cocktail specials, including $5 mimosas and a vivid landscape of sounds from my brother DJ Justice and the beautiful DJ Micki Blendz! And for your visual delight, come and scope out the fly artwork from the lovely Raven Brown giving her canvas some life! The party starts at 11 a.m. at Sports One Bar & Lounge. 521 N. College St. in Uptown. #MoxieSociety
Does your credit need some rejuvenation? Join the beautiful Jamila Freelain of Encouraging Words College Prep as she hosts a special Credit Empowerment Session this afternoon. This FREE workshop will feature Charles Hopgood, Credit Repair Specialist of Infinity Financial Consultants. Whether you are a parent planning to send your kids to college or you are a college student that wants great credit then, this session is for you. In this workshop, you will learn key tips that’ll help you save money, gain insight and expert advice on leading techniques. Please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/credit-empowerment-session-tickets-45178443942. The event will begin at 11:30 a.m. at John’s Family Restaurant. 2002 Westinghouse Blvd.
Heal Charlotte along with students from NEWGEN Peace Builders invites the entire community out for the 2nd Annual Culture Day this afternoon! Be part of this positive jamboree as citizens connect with law enforcement officers building relationships while participating in Olympic-style games. In addition to the fun competition, enjoy lots of food, fellowship from various community organizations and live entertainment representing a multitude of cultures. Admission is FREE and all are welcome. The event will begin at 11 a.m. at the Keith Family YMCA. 8100 Mallard Creek Rd.
This Saturday — a special treat is in store for you! Join Youth Based Strategies of Mecklenburg County and Jazz Undaground Interntational for the Things Get Solved When You Get Involved Charity Benefit this afternoon! Come and get engaged with the community with all sorts of live performances, refreshments a silent art auction and much more! Your host for the afternoon is the multitalented, legendary co-founder of one of Hip Hop’s most powerful groups, Public Enemy – the great DJ Johnny “Juice” Rosado! Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased here: http://www.paypal.me/darrellgregory. The event will be held at Hickory Grove Recreation Center beginning at 12 noon. 6709 Pence Rd.
Enjoy an afternoon of commerce and community as Sae Productions invites you out to a Pop-Up Shop & Networking Brunch! Come and get some Spring shopping done with a feature of over a dozen vendors with a variety of items, swag bags, raffles and a delicious brunch prepared by the beautiful Mrs. Sharelle Curinton of Tasty Plates Catering! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pop-up-shop-and-networking-brunch-tickets-43720085954. The event will begin at 12 noon at Venue @ 1801. 1801 N. Tryon St.
For some more theatrical treasure this Saturday, bring the family out to the Sugaw Creek Recreational Center as Brand New Sheriff Productions along with The Arts & Science Council’s Culture Blocks are proud to present excerpts from the upcoming stage production, “Purlie Victorious!” Purlie is set in an era when Jim Crow laws still were in effect in the American South. Its focus is on the dynamic, traveling preacher Purlie Victorious Judson, who returns to his small Georgia town hoping to save Big Bethel, the community’s church, and emancipate the cotton pickers who work on oppressive Ol’ Cap’n Cotchipee’s plantation. With the assistance of Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins, Purlie hopes to pry loose from Cotchipee an inheritance due his long-lost cousin and use the money to achieve his goals. Also playing a part in Purlie’s plans is Cotchipee’s son Charlie, who ultimately proves to be far more fair-minded than his Simon Legree-like father and who saves the church from destruction with an act of defiance that has dire consequences for the tyrannical Cap’n. Admission is FREE and open to the public. The performance will begin promptly at 1 p.m. Sugaw Creek Recreation Center is located at 943 W. Sugar Creek Rd.
Attention sneaker heads and ballers—head down to the Carole A. Hoefener Center this afternoon and get ready for the QC Sneaker Expo & 3-on-3 Tournament! Scoop up some Spring and Summertime kicks in this buy/sell/trade expo filled with a huge selection of sneakers featuring retro and classic favorites. There will be an awards ceremony, food trucks and live entertainment for the entire family! Also, there will be a 3-on-3 basketball tournament (three age divisions) for all those who desire to compete. Admission to the expo is FREE. For additional info and team registration please call, (704)-771-3522. The event begins at 2 p.m. The Carole A. Hoefener Center is located at 610 E. 7th St. in Uptown.
Get ready for a tasty brunch and a taste of laughter at The Comedy Zone and come experience Funny Side Up! Join your lovely host and comedienne Blayr Nias for a fun filled afternoon of comedy, cocktails and brunch guaranteed to leave you in stitches! While stomach is filled with some delicious food, fill your heart with the raucous humor from Jenn Snyder, Julie J, Kelly Ryan, Jiwan Kapp, Brett Williams and Coco Fresh. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased here: https://www.cltcomedyzone.com/buy-tickets/?Page=https%3a%2f%2fpublic.ticketbiscuit.com%2fComedyZoneCharlotte%2fEvents%2f343393. The event will begin at 2 p.m. The Comedy Zone is located at 900 NC Music Factory Blvd.
Come and boogie old school style at The Morehead Tavern as Jazz N’ Soul Music proudly presents “The Old School Concert & Day Party!” Gather all your friends and get ready to jam just like you did back in the day with Old School 105.3’s very own DJ Stacey Blackman rippin’ and rockin’ classic tunes from yesteryear and a special live performance from Joseph Priester & Co.! Your host is none other than the lovely Chirl Girl. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/old-school-concert-day-party-hosted-by-chirl-girl-with-dj-stacey-blackman-tickets-45968219181. The get down starts at 3 p.m. 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown.
Ladies, I found something else for you! Join JMC Publishing, LLC proudly presenting the Bringing Queens Back social! Come meet the best in writing and fashion that North Carolina has to offer and get to know the mastermind behind “Novels” by Cherry. Also, you will learn how to maximize your closet and get Hollywood glammed on a budget with Sheree Nicole, all while enjoying tasty treats! Admission is FREE but please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bringing-queens-back-tickets-45999198842. The event will begin at 3 p.m. at Amelie’s French Bakery & Café. 2424 N. Davidson St. in the NoDa District.
For some more cultural daytime action, head out to Firehouse Bar & Lounge for the Afro-Caribbean Day Party! Come and “whine” and “werk” it out this afternoon in this swanky Uptown joint as DJ Atomix lays out a fiery Afrobeat, Reggae, Hip Hop, Dancehall and House soundtrack for you groove to! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/afro-caribbean-day-party-tickets-45864178994. The party starts at 4 p.m. Firehouse Bar & Lounge is located at 320 W. Carson St. in Uptown.
It’s that time of year again—RomareFest is back for 2018! Spend the late afternoon at Romare Bearden Park for some fun, food and live music! Your entertainment for the evening is The Next Level Band and the acclaimed saxophonist and smooth jazz recording artist Marion Meadows! Admission is FREE to attend and the entire family is welcome! Be sure to being lawn chairs and blankets. The event begins at 5 p.m. Romare Bearden Park is located at 300 S. Church St. in Uptown.
For all my true art enthusiasts, one of Charlotte’s biggest annual culture jams is back for an evening of delight! Everyone head down to The McColl Center of Art + Innovation for Studio Party 2018! This extraordinary evening pairs renowned artists, both national and local, with you and Charlotte’s most passionate arts and culture lovers. You’ll get to engage in dialogue, dining drinks and dancing with acclaimed creatives Shaun Cassidy, Andrea Chung, Carlos Estévez, Dustin Farnsworth, Maja Godlewska, Marek Ranis, Hongsock Lee, Anne Lemanski, Rashaad Newsome and Fahamu Pecou. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.studioparty.org/buy-tickets/. All proceeds from Studio Party benefit McColl Center’s unparalleled and transformative residency experience for artists and our community. The party starts at 6 p.m. The McColl Center is located at 721 N. Tryon St. in Uptown.
This evening, join my fellow contemporary cultural correspondent, the beautiful Ms. Gellie Moore of PBNGellie.com and Savvy Elite for the first-ever “Blogging Meets Fashion” social! The BMF forum was designed to coalesce the keenness of fashion bloggers and the creativity of local fashion designers and boutique owners to build a communion of interpersonal collaborations which ultimately progresses towards forming unique partnerships. Writers and bloggers are able to use our influence as a means for advertising and advocacy to bring light to entities, causes and businesses who are striving for exposure to the masses. In return, the fashion designers offer their assistance by giving an exclusive look at up-and-coming fashions, garments and accessories giving them desired content for their platforms and websites. Ultimately, the goal of this event is to unify the Charlotte community. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blogging-meets-fashion-tickets-44902255856. The event will begin at 6 p.m. at The Imperial. 300 N. College St., Suite #101 in Uptown.
The Deltas of Charlotte are pulling out all the stops this evening as these dynamic divas proudly present “Good Fellas: The 14th Annual Charity Bachelor Auction!” In 2015 they taught you “How to Get Away with a Bachelor”, and in 2016 we brought you the “Man of the Hour” and had an incredible Mardi Gras party with 13 handsome bachelors. This year they are turning up the heat as we present Charlotte’s most tantalizing “GOOD FELLAS!” Each bachelor is carefully selected and paired with a basket of prizes in which the highest bidder will receive gifts, a date, access to the VIP area and most importantly- bragging rights! From strong and sexy blue collar workers to the leaders of the pack, there is a bachelor for every taste. So ladies, grab your sexy flapper dress, diamonds, feathery boa and top dollars to show the crowd who’s the real boss of the “Good Fellas!” Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.carolinatix.org/events/detail/the-14th-annual-charity-bachelor-auction. The event will begin promptly at 7 p.m. at Spirit Square. 345 N. College St. in Uptown.
Join Community Link at Mint Museum Randolph for a deliciously decadent evening entitled “Sweet Escapes!” In partnership with the Piedmont Culinary Guild they’re bringing you a night of over the top chocolate — over 500 pounds of the stuff! You’ll see amazing chocolate sculptures and taste amazing chocolate creations from some of the areas most talented chefs. Also, while your palates are being satisfied, enjoy some drinks, heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music and an incredible silent auction. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.501auctions.com/sweetescapes/tickets?type=14499. Proceeds from this event will support our homeless and destitute citizens and those are struggling to afford housing. The event will begin at 7 p.m. 2730 Randolph Rd.
This evening, join SociaLight at Hampton Inn & Suites – South Park for a book release of sensational author Marcus J. King’s latest work, “Love Under Fault Lines.” The new, sensational and steamy urban adult novel, explores the heart-wrenching struggle to find love and happiness consumes the trio as they face their fault lines within themselves and each other. Nobody and nothing will escape untouched. During this delightful affair, you’ll get the opportunity to meet the author, who’ll also read some selected excerpts, purchase a signed copy of the book, receive an exclusive bookmark and enjoy drinks and appetizers. The event will begin at 7 p.m. 6700 Phillips Place Ct. in the South Park Area.
Eustress, Inc. is proud to present the inaugural Let’s Talk About It Mental Health Awareness Gala this evening. This soiree will center around raising awareness to support people in our community living with mental disorders and encouraging everyone not to be afraid to discuss it. The evening will begin with a networking hour, followed by the main event and concluded with a night of fellowship and music with a guest live band and DJ Skillz spinning the hotness! The event will be emceed by Power98 personality Ya Girl Nikki. Heavy hors-d’oeuvres will be served throughout the evening with multiple cash bars. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eustress-inc-presents-the-lets-talk-about-it-mental-health-awareness-gala-tickets-43009062263. All proceeds will go to Eustress Inc.’s mission to break the stigma surrounding mental illness in the community. The event will begin at 8 p.m. at The Gantt Center. 551 S. Tryon St. in Uptown.
The spirit of the Motherland makes its way into Spring as The Bantu Fête Team proudly presents “AfroPop Charlotte Vol. 21!” Come represent your dancing spirits as my good brothers The Dynamic DJ Kato and DJ Steel Wheel bust out with the best of Afrobeat, AfroHouse, Soca, DanceHall, Afro-Trap, and so much more! Also, be sure to shop from a bevy of local vendors and get there early to learn some quick and easy Kizomba dance lessons provided by Kizomba Charlotte! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/afropop-charlotte-vol21-afrobeats-soca-fashion-vendors-tickets-45892638116. The party starts at 9 p.m. The Morehead Tavern is located at 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown. #AfricanaConnections #WelcomeToTheTribe
After the auction, slide out to Loft & Cellar for The QC Spring Fling & Bachelor Auction After-Party! Bring your friends out and come party with all the “Good Fellas” from the Delta’s Charity Bachelor Auction and more fly, young QC professionals and enjoy a bevy of cocktail specials and a mix of dope tunes from DJ 06’! This event is presented by Talk of the City, Digital Divas and LK Productions and is hosted by the Deltas of Charlotte. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-qc-spring-fling-bachelor-auction-afterparty-tickets-45607487222. The party starts at 10 p.m. Loft & Cellar is located at 305 W. 4th St. in Uptown.
——-SUNDAY, MAY 20——-
Get your creative shop on this afternoon at Charlotte Art League and come out to the Starving Artist Market. Need some cool and crafty ideas for your home to blend in the Spring atmosphere? This is the place for you! Over 30 local artists and vendors that will be pulling out all the stops to give you a five-hour, one-stop shopping experience. Skip the lines and come view this very talented group of local artisans. There will be pet supplies, pottery, soaps, jewelry, paintings, prints, fiber arts, wood workings, gemstones, candles, glass art, crystals and more! Admission is FREE to enter and the market opens at 12 noon. Charlotte Art League is located at 4100 Raleigh St.
Kings and queens, take a royal stride down to Independence Park this afternoon and come out for the 4th Annual Queen City Naturals in the Park! Bask in this glorious day to commemorate the allure that is uniquely you with a bevy of games, food, family activities, live music, local vendors, giveaways, fellowship and more! The event is hosted by The Alesia Thomas Foundation, Inc. Admission is FREE to attend and the event begins at 2 p.m. Independence Park is located at 300 Hawthorne Ln. in Uptown.
Join Couture Affairs this afternoon as they host “Wine & Dine” for your palatable pleasures. Come and be part of the ultimate wine tasting and dining experience featuring a host of wines to taste, vendors and a delicious pasta buffet! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine-dine-tickets-44808562617. The event will begin at 4:30 p.m. at Venue @ 1801. 1801 N. Tryon St.
This evening, get your clippers, scissors, hot combs and razors ready for The Hair Games 2018! The theme will focus on the various social movements of 2018 such as the #MeToo #TimesUp #NeverAgain movements. The political climate has awakened millions and galvanized people to creative and effective action and we would like to use the Hair Games platform to inspire people to rise up and take action. In addition to the barber and hairstylist battles, there will be music, dancing, vendors, a fashion show and lots more! Come out and enjoy a fun-filled evening at this family friendly event! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-hair-games-tickets-44812545530. The event will begin at 6 p.m. at the Oasis Shriners Clubhouse. 604 Doug Mayes Pl.
COMING SOON…
5/25 – Black Food Truck Friday
5/26 – Boutique It
5/26 – Lobster & Beer Fest
5/26 – Naturally Me Expo
5/26 – Su Casa: The May Edition
5/30 – 6/9 – Brand New Sheriff Productions presents Ossie Davis’ “Purlie Victorious”
5/31 – The Making of Black on Black Crime
5/31 – 6/24 – Charlotte Squawks Vol. 14 – “O, Fourteena!”
6/1 – From Garden to Glass: Summer Cocktail Series
6/2 – United Souls presents “GLOW”
6/3 – 2nd Annual “We’ve Got The Jazz” Festival
6/7 – Black Food Truck Thursday
6/7 — Purple Note 3: Celebrating the Life of Prince through Jazz
6/8 – AfroPop! CLT – The Block Party, Vol. 2
6/13 – Classic Black Cinema Series presents “Black Girl”
6/18 – 2018 MARS Kickball Classic
6/19 – 6/21 – On Q Productions presents James Weldon Johnsons’ “God’s Trombones: Seven Negro Sermons In Verse”
“Identity is a prison you can never escape, but the way to redeem your past is not to run from it, but to try to understand it, and use it as a foundation to grow.” – Jay Z
Everyone enjoy your weekend! Love and light to you!
Live. Laugh. Love. Learn. Listen. Give.
#WeekendWarrior #TheBlackFerrisBueller #EarsToDaSkreets #CommunityFirst