This past weekend I got a jump start on events and checked out Color & Jazz for adults, which featured vocalist Jay Smith, pianist Phillip Howe and coloring instructor Kenya Templeton. If you missed this free event, no worries; Dapper Street Productions will host another on Jan. 19 at the Bette Rae Rec Center in west Charlotte.
I also managed to see “Hidden Figures,” which is based on three magnificent African American women who took NASA by storm in the 1960s, using superior mathematical skills to help launch the U.S. space program. I cried, laughed out loud, and appreciated the education that was never taught in my classroom. This film definitely should be viewed by the entire family.
The winter storm kept me prisoner in my home. Eight DVDs and three novels from the public library prepared me for my bout with cabin fever. I’m one of those folks who gets antsy when snow falls in Charlotte, especially on the weekend. I bought way more food than necessary — homemade chili from Showmars, brownies, and other comfort foods to help me ride out the storm of 2017.
I kept my fingers crossed, hoping that the events I planned to attend would not be canceled. It’s safe to say I was in denial. Sipping a hot toddy and watching my neighbors struggle to get up the hill from our development was the highlight of my morning. Thank goodness that’s behind us as we move forward to enjoying this weekend.
Check out my weekend picks.
FRIDAY
The 14th Annual Legacy of Black Women Film Showcase ~ Presented by the Deltas of Charlotte Foundation, this is by far one of my favorite events in January. Featured are short films from local and national independent African American filmmakers. Enjoy a light reception at 6 p.m.; film time, 7 pm. $25 in advance, $30 on Jan. 13. Location: McGlohon Theatre at Spirit Square (345 N. College St). More info
SATURDAY
Brothers Hypnotic ~ Free documentary screening rescheduled from Jan. 6. Reuben Atlas’ award-winning documentary explores the music, work ethics, life and experiences of being raised by their jazz legend father Phil Cohran. Location: Spirit Square. Time: 8pm. The Hypnotic Brass Band Ensemble will perform live on Jan. 26 at Spirit Square.
More info
SUNDAY
Verbal Expressions ~ Enjoy spoken word poetry from various artists from the Carolinas at Sydney’s Martini & Wine Bar (401 N. Tryon St). Cost: $10. Time: 7 p.m. -10 p.m.
More info
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.
