Where are the black women in Sci-Fi? They were definitely in Charlotte this past weekend for a Black Speculative Fiction Panel at Park Road Books.
This free event was hosted by author Nicole Givens Kurtz and included authors Michele Tracy Berger, Marcia Colette and Alledria Hurt. Yes, I enjoy reading science – fiction by African American women, and I definitely enjoyed meeting the authors. Because after all, meeting the author is so much a part of the experience. You truly missed a treat if you were not there for this Black History Month event.
I also managed to view the special screening of “The Final Year,” which was hosted by Charlotte Film Society. The documentary follows President Barack Obama’s administration as it worked to establish a legacy before leaving power. What an incredible film, which left many in the audience chatting about our current state of affairs.
Lastly, I knew that no matter what was on my to-do list, I was going to see “In This Corner: Cassius Clay” by Idris Goodwin at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. What a phenomenal performance by the entire cast. Deon Releford-Lee will make you believe he was actually the young Cassius Clay. This is a spectacular performance, and I certainly hope you have an opportunity to see this production, which runs through Feb 18.
I hope you enjoy my weekend picks.
FRIDAY
An Evening with Down to the Bone ~ Down to the Bone is an acid jazz group known for club jazz, which combines elements of jazz, soul, funk and disco. Led by British DJ Stuart Wade, the group is popular in the UK, where they are hailed as the kings of UK jazz groove. Don’t miss this performance, presented by the Carolina Jazz Concert Series. Cost: $47.75 – $72.75. Location: McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square (345 N. College St). Time: 8 p.m. More info.
SATURDAY
‘Bad Manners at the Dinner Table’ ~ Ride along with Denise as she pleads with the audience to help her solve the age-old tale of “who done it” as she searches to find the sin who waged her death. Listen to the pleas from Greed, Envy, Lust, Sloth, Wrath, Pride and Gluttony as they try to convince the audience that they are innocent. This is an interactive stage play that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats and brings some of their very own truths to light when they find out what happens when you invite your sins to dinner. Location: Meeting Place Church (600 Peachtree Road). Cost: $20.Time: 5 p.m. More info.
SUNDAY
Peace and Love Band ~ Football season has ended, and you need something to pick you back up. R&B group Peace and Love Band will be performing at STATS Restaurant and Bar (3425 David Cox Rd). If you like the sounds of Marvin Gaye, EWF, Lionel Ritchie, Bruno Mars and many more, you will love Peace and Love Band. Grown folk event, so bring comfortable dancing shoes. Time: 7 p.m.-11 p.m. Admission: $10. More info.
