Since February is Black History Month, it’s only right that we note some of the BHM events not related to NBA All-Star Weekend or CIAA. Don’t worry, we’ll have you covered there too.
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August Wilson’s “Two Trains Running”
Jan. 31 – Feb. 9
Among playwright August Wilson’s great works are 10 plays chronicling the Black experience throughout each decade of the 20th century. These plays became collectively known as “The Pittsburgh Cycle.” Two Trains Running is set during the civil rights movement of the ‘60s and brings together characters in a Pittsburgh restaurant scheduled for demolition.
Nina Simone: “Four Women”
Now through Feb. 16
North Carolina native Nina Simone penned the song Four Women following the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. The play takes the song’s framework to highlight colorism, classism and other themes through the experience of four Black women. This powerful play is still relevant decades later.
“The Long March” – Herblock & The Civil Rights Era
Now through Feb. 28
Take a trip over to the Gaston County Public Library and check out “The Long March.” This traveling civil rights exhibit features the work of Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist Herbert Block, famously known as “Herblock.”
Beautiful Truth: An evening of poetry and conversation with National Book Award Winner Terrance Hayes
Feb. 1
Award-winning poet, author and educator Terrance Hayes visits Charlotte to read some of his works and facilitate conversations on social change.
“Black Panther” in theaters
Feb. 1-7
Yes, you can catch Black Panther on Netflix, but this one is for the culture. Following Chadwick Boseman’s ‘To Be Young, Gifted and Black’ speech at the recent Screen Actors Guild Awards, Disney announced that Black Panther would return to AMC theaters for a limited time. But this time, you can see it for free.
Participating Charlotte-area theaters include AMC Carolina Pavilion in south Charlotte and AMC Northlake 14 at Northlake Mall. You may want to hurry because tickets are going fast. Are we dressing up this time around? #WakandaForever
Ain’t Misbehavin’
Feb. 1-17
Relive the musicianship and flamboyance of the Harlem Renaissance at Theatre Charlotte’s production of the Tony Award-winning musical. Return to the golden age of the Cotton Club and swing music during the celebration of legendary jazz pianist and composer, Thomas Wright “Fats” Waller.
Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds”
Feb. 8 -24
For the Bob Marley lovers, this children’s musical introduces his work to the next generation.
Muddy Turtle Talks Gentrification and Conversation
Feb. 9
While Charlotte’s in the midst of a housing crisis, gentrification is eroding areas, particularly historically black neighborhoods. Muddy Turtle Talks is a live storytelling showcase that helps the community preserve its stories through its people.
Taste of the Mint | African-Print Fashion Now
Feb. 10
Check out stylish African print on a guided tour while enjoying small bites and wine.
Soul Food Scholar: Adrian Miller’s Tales of a White House Kitchen
Feb. 12
James Beard Award-winning author and culinary historian Adrian Miller also served as an attorney in the White House under the Clinton Administration. He fused his experiences together and penned books highlighting more than 150 Black men and women throughout history who cooked at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Nourish your cravings for stimulating conversations and delicious bites during this chat-and-chew.
ShapingCLT: K(NO)W Justice K(NO)W Peace
Feb. 20
Join this month’s #ShapingCLT community conversation: K(NO)W Justice K(NO)W Peace. The intimate discussion centers around the history of local law enforcement’s relationship with the members of the community.
African-American Heritage Festival
Feb. 23
Learn about Charlotte’s Black history through food, music, the Hezekiah Alexander Rock House and more during this celebration of more than 250 years of culture.
Chime in: What other February events are you attending?
Katrina Louis is managing editor of qcitymetro.com who can always find something to do in Charlotte. She’s an offline hustler (and has the shirt to prove it) but when online, find her on Instagram and Twitter.
