Spoleto fun in Charleston? Yes indeed!
Last weekend I attended the Spoleto festival for the first time. For years I’d heard great things about this annual, two-week festival, which offers opera, theater, music, art, and many other special events in the historic Charleston area. Long story short, I stumbled upon a bus ride hosted by Johnson C. Smith University alumni members Karen Watson and Fred Tatum. I was told this was an event that “On the town with Toni” would enjoy, and I most certainly did.
I ran into Jonathan Green, a well-known national artist from the Charleston area; I attended the opera “Porgy and Bess,” which was absolutely amazing; and I visited Mother Emmanuel Church and dined at the famous Hyman’s Seafood Restaurant.
If you’ve never been to Charleston, I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to experience rich culture just a few hours south of here.
Now for my weekend picks. I hope to see you on the town.
FRIDAY
Stonecrest Summer Concert Series ~ The amazing jazz group the Brubakers are in town Friday and Saturday for this outdoor concert series. This contemporary jazz group is one of my favorites. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy a glass of wine, ice cream, or a bite to eat from one of the nearby establishments. This event is free and open to the public. (7900 Rea Rd.) Showtime 7-10 p.m. More info. http://www.thebrubakers.net/calendar.php
SATURDAY
Queen City Jazz Fest ~ If you attended last year’s festival featuring Will Downing, Mike Phillips, Karen Briggs and many others, then you know what to expect this year with featured artists Gerald Albright, Brian Culbertson and the incredible, sultry voice of Lalah Hathaway. An amazing evening. I’m front row ready!!! Tickets are still available but going fast. You don’t want to miss this grown-folk show. Charlotte Metro Credit Union Amphitheater (Formerly known as Uptown Amphitheater). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and show starts at 6:30 p.m. More info. Or call 1-800 745- 3000.
SUNDAY
Father’s Day Brunch ~ How about letting Dad step away from the grill this weekend and enjoy a delightful brunch at Terrace Cafe? This is definitely one of my favorite spots for brunch, and Dad is sure to love it. The red velvet waffles and fried chicken dish is to die for. Make your reservation early. Terrace Cafe is at 4625 Piedmont Drive. Brunch begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m. More info. http://terracerestaurants.com
To see a larger listing of local events, visit the Qcitymetro events page at www.qcity2021.flywheelstaging.com/events.
Toni Baker-Tyson is a social butterfly. Her entertainment picks are published each Thursday on Qcitymetro.com. Email Toni at toni@qcity2021.flywheelstaging.com, or join her Chocolate Social Network, a group for the mature (40-plus) but young at heart.
