By Shawn D. Allison, II
What’s up everyone? The week is complete and now it’s time to make a few weekend rounds with “The Rundown!” There’s TONS to get into this weekend and with Cinco De Mayo in the lineup, things are sure to turn into a fiesta! I’ve got quite a bit of things lined up on my agenda and if you desire to tag along with me, check out what I got lined up on my “Hot List!”
- THURSDAY — K(NO)W Justice K(NO)W Peace Author Talks w/ Dr. Ibram X. Kendi at The Levine Museum of the New South
- THURSDAY — DeNeer Davis Graffiti Workshop at Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
- FRIDAY – Blow Your Head at Salud Cerveceria
- FRIDAY – That 70s Art Show at Oso Skate Park
- FRIDAY — Lagos Bugalú: Afrobeats, Afro-house + Afrofunk at Crown Station
- SATURDAY – Global Peace International Festival
- SATURDAY – Excerpts of “Purlie Victorious” at West Charlotte Rec Center
- SATURDAY – Get On Up!: A Musical Tribute to James Brown at Booth Playhouse
- SATURDAY — Off The Wall: Best of the 80s V.14 + Slow Wine Edition at Petra’s
- SUNDAY — 4th Annual Culture Kissed Fashion Extravaganza
- SUNDAY – WEPA! at Petra’s
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 3——-
This evening, head out to The Levine Museum of the New South for a special segment of its K(NO)W Justice K(NO)W Peace Author Talks featuring Ibram X. Kendi. Dr. Ibram X. Kendi is the National Book Award-winning author of “Stamped From The Beginning: A Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America.” His relentless and passionate research puts into question the notion of a post-racial society and opens readers’ and audiences’ eyes to the reality of racism in America today. Dr. Kendi’s lectures are sharp, informative, and hopeful, serving as a strong platform for any institution’s discussions on racial discrimination. Dr. Kendi is Professor of History and International Relations and the Founding Director of the Antiracist Research and Policy Center at American University. He is a frequent public speaker who speaks with great expertise and compassion about the findings of his book and how they can fit into the national conversation surrounding movements such as #BlackLivesMatter and social justice. Tickets can be purchased here: https://38686.blackbaudhosting.com/38686/Stamped-From-The-Beginning-Ibram-X-Kendi. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. The museum is located at 200 E. 7th St. in Uptown.
Join the Bechtler Young Visionaries at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art for a very special DeNeer Davis Graffiti Workshop this evening! The acclaimed artist will explain graffiti methods as she guides the group in designing a pair of custom wearable art. Bring your own pair of white sneakers, canvas bag, shirt, or whatever you’d like to paint. And while you’re creating, DJ Jason Herring will be in the background spinning all sorts of fly sounds. Tickets can be purchased here: https://30796a.blackbaudhosting.com/30796a/tickets?tab=2&txobjid=88fb51a1-39e9-4fa8-9c7b-cf085dc72d8c. Registration includes art materials, instruction, beer, wine and light bites. Only persons 21+ will be admitted. The class starts at 6 p.m. The Bechtler is located at 420 S. Tryon St. in Uptown.
Get ready to lose yourself in laughter at The Morehead Tavern this evening as they present to you, “Laff It Up Thursdays!” This first-Thursday-of-every-month comedy jam is full of nonstop humor with a list of comedians and comediennes ready to clear your heart’s cholesterol with laughter. Tonight’s headliner is the riotous Rion Evans with a sultry R&B set by the beautiful Ms. Jessica Macks. Your evening will be hosted by none other than homegrown and legendary funnyman Tone-X. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/laff-it-up-thursdays-with-tone-x-tickets-45144538530. The event will begin at 7 p.m. The Morehead Tavern is located at 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown.
Calling all ballers – Got some skills for the court? Join my friends at Play MARSports as they host an Open Practice for the upcoming Spring 2018 Co-Ed 3-On-3 Basketball! Lace up those sneakers, get stretched out and drive it to the hole in this evening of fun with other ballers from across the area. The season starts Wednesday, May 16th and if you’re interested in joining, please be sure to register at: http://www.playmarsports.com. Practice will begin at 7 p.m. at Charlotte Athletic Club. 101 S. Tryon St. in Uptown. #MARS #Funletics
——-FRIDAY, MAY 4——-
This weekend, take a short ride up to Kannapolis and locate the billowing clouds of smoke because it’s time for Jiggy With the Piggy 2018! This local festival is back and bigger featuring over 70 barbeque competition squads, arts & crafts, carnival rides, live bands, a farmers’ market, kids’ activities, vendors and a special awards ceremony for the best BBQ! Admission is FREE and the event will commence at 5 p.m. on Friday (5/4). The festival will be held at Kannapolis City Hall located at 401 Laureate Way in Downtown Kannapolis.
It’s time to experience a classic evening of jazz as The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art proudly presents the May installment of Jazz at the Bechtler! For tonight’s entertainment, step back into the early 1970s as incumbent soundmasters, The Ziad Jazz Quartet channels the late, great McCoy Tyner by playing selections from two of his signature albums, “Atlantis” and “Fly With the Wind.” Recorded live at San Francisco’s legendary Keystone Korner, McCoy Tyner’s “Atlantis” has four of Tyner’s modal originals played by the full group, a rendition of “My One and Only Love” performed by the leader, Lawrence and Franco as a trio, and a solo piano version of “In a Sentimental Mood.” This 1974 album is essential music that still sounds fresh and adventurous. Tickets can be purchased here: https://30796a.blackbaudhosting.com/30796a/tickets?tab=2&txobjid=c1fccf4e-f46e-4007-b8e1-73acc3a7c8d2. There will be two shows this evening at 6 and 8:15 p.m. The Bechtler is located at 420 S. Tryon St. in Uptown.
Slide out to C3 Lab this evening for a very special creative showcase titled, “Resist: An Activist Art Show.” Come and get engaged in a night of visual art, poetry readings and more exploring how resistance speaks to the creative spark. As a nation and individually, we are confronted with issues such as immigration, healthcare, discrimination, climate change, white supremacy, gender inequality, and countless other issues. How do you make your voice heard? What do you resist? Come see artists explore the theme of ”resistance” in their own way. Admission is FREE to attend. The showcase will begin at 6 p.m. C3 Lab is located at 2525 Distribution St. in Historic South End.
Ladies, get ready to “werk” your way to a healthier lifestyle at the “Trap Out: The Werk Out” exercise session this evening! Now I bet you’re wondering what in the world is Trap Out – The Werk Out? It’s an interactive workout party fully stocked with Hip Hop, Soca, twerking and majorette-style dancing routines that’ll set your course to a healthier size-sexy fit lifestyle. What’s unique about this class is that you will be taught by four instructors at once who specialize in their designated field of dance. If you want to be healthy and have fun at the same time, this is the class for you! Please feel free to encourage your friends to join! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/trap-out-the-werk-out-tickets-42767928024. The session will begin at 7 p.m. and will be held at Noda@28th Creative Arts Studios. 2424 N. Davidson St. in the NoDa District.
For some different sonic flavor in the QC this weekend, come out to Salud Cerveceria for the May session of “Blow Your Head!” Join local musicians and cultural activists DJs Flock of Slagles and Jah Freedom spinning an entire vinyl set of Funk, Soul, Boogie, Garage, House and Rare Grooves for your listening pleasures! Also, be sure to be camera ready as renowned photographer Jonathan Cooper with be abroad snapping fun still shots throughout the night! Admission is FREE to attend and be ready to dance! The event starts at 8 p.m. Salud Cerveceria is located at 3306 N. Davidson St., Suite “C” in the NoDa District. #BlowYourHead
Attention skater heads – something cool for you all tonight! Everyone grab your friends and kick push yourselves over to Oso Skate Park for “That 70s Art Show!” Come and experience art inspired by multiple subculture movements of the 1970’s such as the rise in skateboarding, the birth of Hip Hop, Punk Rock, graffiti and street art. Showcased artists include: Phoebe Alicia, CHD:WCK!, Lana Rubright, Jeff Beck and my brothers Brian “BT” Twitty and John Hairston, Jr. Sounds will be provided by DJ Trife. Admission to the art show is FREE and $10 if you choose to skate. The jump off is at 8 p.m. Oso Skate Park is located at 933 Louise Ave. in the Plaza-Midwood District.
Light a candle and enjoy a glass of wine as Jazz N’ Soul Music aspires to make your Friday night just fine as they welcome Angelique & Musical Explosions to the stage! Angelique Burris is quite the delight with vocals as rich as precious jewels, she’s able to weave her melodies in and out of multiple genres with an impressive ease. Don’t miss this show! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/angelique-and-musical-explosions-a-dynamic-night-of-rb-and-jazz-tickets-44980366487. Doors open at 8 and the show starts promptly at 9 p.m. at The Morehead Tavern. 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown. #JazzNSoulMusic
The weekend has arrived and now it’s time to relax as Buck Long & Friends proudly presents Feel Good Fridays featuring Willie Walker & Conversation Piece! Come experience one of Charlotte’s finest instrumental collectives filled with rousing melodies and pulsating grooves guaranteed to make you feel good! There will be drink and meal specials available to enhance your experience. Admission is $10 per person. Doors open at 8 and the band strikes at 9 p.m. The show will be held at ROC’s Jazz Bar. 1000 NC Music Factory Blvd. near Uptown.
For your Friday night Hip Hop fix, get into the mix at Pangaea Tapas Bar & Grill and get ready to experience “The Classics!” Stroll down memory lane and reminisce on the days hangin’ with your crew as my brothers DJ Chance and DJ FoundACEtion give you that lush flavor of that good ol’ Golden Era Hip Hop from the 80s, 90s and early 2000s! Also, be sure to grab some tasty treats from the kitchen and bar. FREE admission. 9 p.m. 13016 Eastfield Rd. in Huntersville.
The Sol Kitchen is back to provide some electric relaxation this evening at ‘Stache House with the May installment of #ThankGawdits1stFriday! Sound provider and Charlotte staple DJ Loui Vee will spin the best of today’s and yesterday’s Hip Hop and R&B grooves. Admission is FREE. 10 p.m. ‘Stache House is located at 1520 South Blvd. in Historic South End. #TheSolKitchen
Africana Connections is ready to douse your Friday night with a new element of Afro-dopeness as they proudly present Lagos Bugalú: Afrobeats, Afro-house + Afrofunk! Step into a funky realm of the “Afrosphere” as The Dynamic DJ Kato draws you into a world where the music, vibes and energy is all blended with the beauty of The Motherland! Also, while you’re working up a sweat on the dance floor, refuel your temple with the deliciousness of Jamaican Jerk Food Truck and add some razzle to your dazzle with Akua Ghana Gifts & Glamour. Admission is $1 but also please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lagos-bugalu-afrobeats-afro-house-afrofunk-tickets-45613551360. The party starts at 10 p.m. at Crown Station. 3629 N. Davidson St. in the NoDa District.
——-SATURDAY, MAY 5——-
Are you an advocate for Black women and girls? Are you ready to make a difference? Join the Queen City Metropolitan Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. as they host “You Okay, Sis?: A Symposium on the Status of Black Women & Girls.” Come out and network with community stakeholders and learn more about the status of Black women and girls in the areas of health, education, economic empowerment and civic engagement. Admission is FREE but please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/you-okay-sis-a-symposium-on-the-status-of-black-women-girls-tickets-44938282613. Breakfast will be served at 8 and the event will begin at 9 p.m. at Crown Plaza Charlotte Executive Park. 5700 Westpark Dr.
This morning, take a two-wheeled tour with ASC Culture Blocks and QC Family Tree as they proudly present “What Happened Here?: An Urban Bike Tour & History Talk.” Join other community cyclists on a 5.5-mile journey as you weave, wander and wade through Historic West End, Old Third Ward and the neighborhood formerly known as Brooklyn learning about the history of these three Charlotte neighborhoods and how they drastically changed over the course of time. All ages are welcome. Please be sure to RSVP here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSci9DUjJsFM6a_IcHbMF_APGtyMgZsODaSbHg3XuaG1wGvK7A/viewform. The ride will begin and end at 5 Points Plaza starting at 9:30 a.m. 1601 W. Trade St. near JCSU.
Ladies, join my friend, the beautiful Resha K. Washington of Little Brown Girl Publishing as she presents Brown Girls Breaking Glass Ceilings: A Women’s Empowerment Event this morning! This is a half-day event designed to motivate, inspire and empower women while allowing opportunities for networking and connecting with other women in the community. The esteemed Ms. Janine Davis of Girl Talk Foundation and V101.9 will be on hand as part of a panel discussion to share some insightful words of wisdom and encouragement for the audience. This event will also have a diverse array of vendors, multiple raffles and door prizes. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brown-girls-breaking-glass-ceilings-a-womens-empower-evnt-wjanine-davis-tickets-43358576670. The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Courtyard Marriott. 333 WT Harris Blvd.
Moxie Society is about to add some spice to your Saturday as they invite you out to the I Still Love the 90s Brunch & Day Party – Cinco De Mayo Edition! “Issa Fiesta” at Sports One Bar & Lounge as one of the hottest event promotion firms get things jumpin’ with Charlotte staples DJ 06’ and DJ Tramare rock out with the hottest mix of 90s Hip Hop, R&B, House, Go-Go and more! While the music is jumpin’, get your taste buds thumpin’ with a delicious Southern-inspired brunch menu featuring $5 mimosas and a variety of cocktail specials. Also, for your visual delight, check out the canvassing finesse of my brother Dammit Wesley making those colors blend just right. Admission is FREE and the party starts at 11 a.m. 521 N. College St. in Uptown.
Calling all Chocolate techies – head out to BlkTechCLT for the May workshop entitled “Learn UI/UX: Prototyping and Testing Your Next Idea.” Whether you are building an app or a website it’s important to get feedback from the right audience at the start. In this workshop hosted by Feleesha Sterling, founder of Quick Usability, will focus on two important parts of building your MVP. Creating your prototype and then testing it with users. Building a prototype can save time and money by reducing development costs. While testing your idea with actual users will provide impactful feedback that you can use to iterate immediately and cheaply. In this workshop you will be guided through tools and techniques to create an interactive mock-up of your product. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/learn-uiux-prototyping-and-testing-your-next-idea-presented-by-blktechclt-tickets-44646313325. The session starts at 11 a.m. BlkTechCLT is located at Camp North End. 1824 Statesville Ave.
The C.N. Jenkins Memorial Presbyterian Church invites the entire family out for the Global Peace International Festival this afternoon! Join the community for some cultural excitement, music, dances, stories, drumming and poetry all in the name of world peace. There will also be an international marketplace and a tasting party featuring food from various cultures around the world. Admission is FREE and open to the public. 12:30 p.m. 1421 Statesville Ave.
Spend the afternoon in one of Charlotte’s best-known neighborhoods and come out for NoDa Day in May! This FREE family-friendly street festival will feature a multitude of local artists, vendors, food trucks, guest DJs, fresh-brewed keg beer and lots more! A portion of the proceeds will go towards Crisis Assistance Ministry and they will have representatives taking donations of gently used articles of clothing. The festival kicks off at 1 p.m. The festival will be held at E. 35th St and N. McDowell St. in the NoDa District.
Head down to the Carole A. Hoefener Center for the 2018 Queen City Cinco De Mayo Festival this afternoon! Enjoy crafts, culture, food, art, vendors, giveaways, discounts and coupons that’ll make the vendor shopping experience like no other and even a bounce house for kids. There will also be 100 FREE swag bags given away to the first 100 attendees. FREE admission. 1 p.m. 615 E. 6th St. in Uptown.
Family, join local activist, the lovely Nekie Boyd as she hosts the Black Owned Business Vendor Fair this afternoon! Come and scope out a variety of products and services provided by some positive and progressive Brothers and Sisters in our community. There will be food, music and lots of opportunities to knock out some networking! Admission is FREE to attend and the fair will open at 1 p.m. 311 W. 24th St.
It’s time to lose yourselves in the beauty of nature at the 2018 Euphoria in the Park House Music Fest! Bring your family and friends out for a day full of hard-hittin’ House, Deep House, R&B, Downtempo, Soul and Funk tunes piloted by a slew of renowned DJs and a few live performances from guest artists. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2018-euphoria-in-the-park-charlotte-tickets-42230665056. This event is presented by Charlotte House Movement. Coolers, chairs, tents and food is permissible to bring with you. The event starts at 1 p.m. at Hornets Nest Park. 6301 Beatties Ford Rd.
For some true theatrical treasure this Saturday, bring the family out to the West Charlotte Rec Center as Brand New Sheriff Productions along with The Arts & Science Council 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. West Charlotte Rec Center is located at 2401 Kendall Dr.
Everyone head out to The Gantt Center for the May installment of the Family First Workshop Series! For today’s segment, get ready for your special class entitled, “Crafting Mosaics – An Art-Making Workshop” with Lillian Blades. Mosaic is the art of crafting images with an assemblage of small pieces of colored glass, stone, and other materials. Inspired by her exhibition, “Lillian Blades: Mirrors of Life”, the artist will lead participants through the process of constructing paper mosaics by first creating collages and then painting their own abstract compositions. Considering color, texture, pattern and movement, guests will combine their original works of art with found objects – supplied by the artist – to fashion a 3D masterpiece! Tickets can be purchased here: https://61686.blackbaudhosting.com/61686/Session-Two-Family-First-Presented-by-Novant-Health-Crafting-Mosaics?_ga=2.5639219.1886877354.1524761531-261956886.1524761531. The session will begin at 1:30 p.m. The Gantt Center is located at 551 S. Tryon St. in Uptown.
Kentucky Derby fever has hit the QC and the Charlotte Kappas invites you out to their 4th Annual Kappa Derby Day Party! Ladies, grab your sundresses and pastel hats — gentleman, break out your seersucker suits and bowties! Come and enjoy an afternoon of southern-inspired cocktails, featuring Tito’s Handmade Vodka, hor d’oeuvres, music, games, and multiple viewing screens to allow you to indulge the excitement live from Churchill Downs, dubbed “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports!” Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/charlotte-kappa-derby-day-tickets-44148692929. The event begins at 2 p.m. The Charlotte Kappa House is located at 5409 Beatties Ford Rd.
It’s Cinco De Mayo and OutenLove Events along with Urban Professionals Group invites you to be festive and celebrate at the Cinco De Mayo Margaritathon Day Party! That’s right – these two firms are turning Sydney’s Martini & Wine Bar into a fiesta complete with a variety of margarita specials while DJ Heartless turns up the heat with a dope mix of today’s and yesteryear’s hits! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cinco-de-mayo-margaritathon-day-party-tickets-45139570671. The party starts at 3 p.m. Sydney’s is located at 401 N. Tryon St. in Uptown. #OutenLoveEvents
GOODfellas, Inc. and D. Autry invites you out to Firehouse Bar & Lounge for the Under the Influence – Cinco De Mayo Party this afternoon! Enjoy this fly fiesta featuring a bevy of festive R&B, Hip Hop and Latin grooves provided by DJ Cuttz! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sat-55-under-the-influence-cinco-de-mayo-day-party-fire-house-bar-lounge-tickets-45574709182. The party starts at 4 p.m. Firehouse Bar & Lounge is located at 320 W. Carson Blvd. in Uptown.
Join Bishop Randy Borders at Advent Coworking and celebrate the launch of his new book, “More Than A Mentor: Understanding & Growing in Your Relationship With Your Spiritual Father.” Enjoy some delicious food and music and hear about a little about the journey from concept to creation. This book will be a powerful tool for anyone seeking maximize their potential and enter another dimension in their journey with The Lord. Admission is FREE to attend but please be sure to RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-official-book-release-event-for-more-than-a-mentor-tickets-45611103037. The event will begin at 6 p.m. Advent Coworking is located at 933 Louise Ave. in the Plaza-Midwood District.
The Carolinas’ Latin Dance Company is proud to present their 16th annual Dancing Through Latin America showcase. This year, the show will focus on demonstrating multi-cultural unity through music and dance, as this is their mission statement. Our show will represent folkloric dances from ten countries in Latin America, two from Spain, one from India and one from the USA. It will show the similarities between Hispanic and non-Hispanic cultures by inviting guest performers representing India. Also, the dancers will pay homage to the United States as it is the melting pot where all these beautiful cultures meet, and to Puerto Rico and Mexico due to all the recent devastation they have endured. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.carolinatix.org/events/detail/dancing-through-latin-america-4. The show starts at 7 p.m. at The McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square. 345 N. College St. in Uptown.
The powers of Jazz Around Town and The Sol Kitchen combine once again to give you a strong and powerful dose of funk this Saturday night as they present “Get On Up! — A Musical Tribute to James Brown!” Give it up, turn it loose and get on the good foot as The X-Men along with the lovely Ahji Love set the stage on fire performing a colorful variety of The Godfather of Soul’s biggest hits! Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.carolinatix.org/events/detail/get-on-up-a-musical-tribute-to-james-brown. The soul power starts at 8 p.m, sharp at the Booth Playhouse located at 130 N. Tryon St. in Uptown. #JazzAroundTown #TheSolKitchen
This evening, journey into the previous, pre-colonized mind of one of Hip Hop’s most enigmatic figures as TheLivePlayList.com hosts “I Miss The Old Kanye — Charlotte’s Kanye West Tribute!” This night will be dedicated to art heads and lovers of Hip Hop Culture and GOOD Music celebrating the “Good Life” and times of the “Father of Backpack Rap”. Reminisce on the days of his early career successes as a few guest DJs spin out some Hip Hop, Trap, Soul, R&B and Deep House cuts with a special Kanye-inspired mix! Also, there will be art displays and live performances from local indie artists paying homage to our tortured genius. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/i-miss-the-old-kanye-cinco-deymo-kanye-playlist-tickets-45215787638. The celebration starts at 8 p.m. at Studio 1212. 1212 E. 10th St. near Uptown.
Need a jolt of sonic juice to spring your body into action tonight? Head out to The Morehead Tavern this evening for RELEASE! Classic & Soulful House Party! Join the Deep House Providers (DJs Marcus, Gary “Jackmaster” Wallace, Badala B and DJ Tony Cutlass) and special guests Kelly Kel and Father Abraham as they provide nothing but the best of House, Downtempo, Soul and Funk grooves all night long! Admission is $10. The party starts at 9 p.m. The Morehead Tavern is located at 300 E. Morehead St. in Uptown. #HouseMusicLives #DeepHouseProviders
The mighty JETA Team is ready to take you back in time at Petra’s with another funky and retro round o’ sound with “Off The Wall: Best of the 80s V.14 + Slow Wine Edition!” Join soul brothers DJ Aking Allah and DJ Justice as they take you on a ride with all the fly jams between 1980 through 1989! From Public Enemy to Billy Joel, Run-DMC to Whitney Houston, Prince, The Jacksons, Eric B. & Rakim, Duran Duran, S.O.S. Band, Beastie Boys, Kraftwerk and much, much, more flyness! Then, be sure to stick around as the tempo slows down as your two sound craftsmen provide a delightful arsenal of slow jams for you and your partner to groove to! Trust me, you don’t want to miss this! 9 p.m. Admission is $5 before 11 p.m. and $10 after. 1919 Commonwealth Ave. in the Plaza-Midwood District. #TheJETATeam
For some extra island flavor this Saturday night, slide out to Bakadi Lounge for the All-White Affair featuring Wayne Wonder! Come be dapper and dazzling in your best all-white threads and “whine” it out on the dance floor with the hottest Reggae, Dancehall, Soca and R&B jams – then stick around as Reggae legend Wayne Wonder performs all of his biggest hits! This event is presented by Bakadi Nation at Alter Ego Body Studio. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/all-white-affair-with-wayne-wonder-tickets-44657190860. The party starts at 10 p.m. Bakadi Lounge is located at 4205 Monroe Rd.
——-SUNDAY, MAY 6——-
Slide out to Cuzzo’s Cuisine brick & mortar location for the Soul Food Sunday Buffet! Whether you’re leaving church or just out enjoying this gorgeous Charlotte weather, put your stomach in the mix as Chef Andarrio Johnson and crew creates a delicious fix of your favorite soul food menu items — Cajun fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni & cheese, greens beans, rice pilaf, fish, green beans, World Famous Lobster Mac & Cheese and lots more! Admission is $15 per person and the buffet will run from 12 noon – 5 p.m. 3418 Tuckaseegee Rd.
Moxie Society invites you out to Firehouse Bar & Lounge on this cool Sunday afternoon as they host, “Sippin’ On Sundays – The One Year Anniversary Party!” Relax in this fly Uptown QC venue with delicious food, drink specials, hookah, fresh-rolled stogies, music from DJ Louie Vee and celebrate the success of one of Charlotte’s most esteemed leisure firms. Admission is FREE but if you’re interested in VIP seating, please register and pay here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sippin-on-sundays-one-year-anniversary-tickets-45259007911. The event begins at 3 p.m. Firehouse Bar & Lounge is located at 320 W. Carson St. in Uptown.
Get ready for an afternoon of splendiferous color and energy as the gorgeous EmpressMesh invites you to the 4th Annual Culture Kissed Fashion Extravaganza! Charlotte, come and experience a wide variety of radiant threads for men, women and youth in this festive affair guaranteed to capture all of your senses. There will also be vendors available and live entertainment to accompany the afternoon’s aura. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/culture-kissed-fashion-extravaganza-4-tickets-42169269420. The event will begin at 4 p.m. The address of the venue is 931 Wilann Dr. in the Eastway Neighborhood.
This Sunday night, the creative wonder Jasiatic is back with some new Afrofuturistic flavor as she proudly presents the inaugural session of WEPA! Fashioned as the Su Casa remix, join resident turntablists DJ Justice and DJ Steel Wheel for a gumbo pot-flavored soundscape featuring the frequencies of Dancehall, Soca, Bachata, Afro-Swing, Afro-Trap, Gqom and more! Admission is $5 all night long. The party starts at 9 p.m. at Petra’s. 1919 Commonwealth Ave. in the Plaza-Midwood District.
COMING SOON…
5/12 – Bowties & Pearls: A Mother & Son Dance Gala
5/17 – Modernism + Film Series: Raw Beauty
5/18 — Science on the Rocks: Don’t Try This at Home
5/19 – RomareFest 2018
5/19 – 7th Annual Sweet Escapes Benefit
5/20 – 4th Annual Queen City Natural In the Park Festival
5/25 – Black Food Truck Friday
5/26 – Boutique It
5/30 – 6/9 – Brand New Sheriff Productions presents Ossie Davis’ “Purlie Victorious”
6/7 — Purple Note 3: Celebrating the Life of Prince through Jazz
6/19 – 6/21 – On Q Productions presents James Weldon Johnsons’ “God’s Trombones: Seven Negro Sermons In Verse”
May your weekend be filled with endless joy and splendor! Peace.
“Don’t worry, be happy.” –Bobby McFerrin
Live. Laugh. Love. Learn. Listen. Give.
#WeekendWarrior #TheBlackFerrisBueller #EarsToDaSkreets #CommunityFirst