If it's entertainment-related and it interests us, we post it -- then we sit back and hope it'll interest you.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Dashboard Confessional to join Bon Jovi
Dashboard Confessional last month released its sixth album, "Alter the Ending." The Florida alternative rock band is led by singer-songwriter Chris Carrabba.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Black Eyed Peas coming to Charlotte
From a Bobcats Sports & Entertainment press release that just popped into our inbox:
Three-time Grammy Award winning recording artist, The Black Eyed Peas announced that dates for their headline tour will include a stop at Time Warner Cable Arena on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010. Described as the ultimate Black Eyed Peas party experience, this tour marks the first time that the group – will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo and Fergie – is united for a North American headline tour since their 2006 Monkey Business world tour. On sale date will be announced soon.
In support of their multi-platinum #1 album, The E.N.D, featuring the chart record-breaking consecutive #1 singles, “Boom Boom Pow” and “I Gotta Feeling” – The Black Eyed Peas will replicate the party vibe of a hot dance club (complete with guest DJs including will.i.am ) in arenas across the country and around the world. “The E.N.D. World Tour” proves The Energy Never Dies with a feast for the senses for hundreds of thousands of fans. The tour will also be “green,” with a unique charitable component to be announced in the weeks ahead.
"AEG Live has always been a company that likes to execute out-of-the-box ideas. Our newest clients, The Black Eyed Peas, have defined that concept like no other group in contemporary music and culture," says Randy Phillips, President & CEO of AEG Live. "We expect our first hundred shows together to be a roller coaster ride that will redefine the live entertainment experience as only the Peas can."
2009 has been a monumental year for The Black Eyed Peas, starting with the March release of “Boom Boom Pow” – not only the group’s first #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 but one of the top dozen or so longest-charting singles in Hot 100 history, 12 weeks at the top. They bumped themselves out of #1 with their second single, “I Gotta Feeling” (released in June), surpassing their own success with a 14-week stay at #1 (only the fourth group in Hot 100 history to replace itself at #1). Their 26 consecutive week run at #1 has now become a new all-time benchmark in Hot 100 history (for groups or solo artists).
Meanwhile, flush with two massive hit singles, The E.N.D. (released June 2, 2009) debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart with the highest first-week sales of The Black Eyed Peas’ career.
The E.N.D., The Black Eyed Peas’ fifth studio album, is also their first original album since Monkey Business (released May 2005), certified RIAA triple platinum in the
To date, The Black Eyed Peas have sold over 27 million combined units worldwide, and have logged over 300 headline tour dates in 29 countries with over 2.2 million tickets sold.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Monster Jam returns to Charlotte
Feld Motor Sports announced today that Monster Jam®, the world’s premier monster truck series, will take over Time Warner Cable Arena for three shows February 12 (7:30 p.m.) & 13 (2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.), 2010, featuring freestyle and racing competition. Tickets go on sale Friday, Nov. 20 at 10 a.m. via Ticketmaster.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Discovery Place announces new exhibition
Cool Stuff kicks off the transformation of
“This is a major milestone for
Designed to demonstrate physical phenomenon in unique and eccentric ways, Cool Stuff allows visitors to launch objects into the air, lie on a bed of nails, crush a garbage can or use a laser to listen to secret messages.*
Featuring a gallery of interactive displays and contraptions, Cool Stuff allows guests to experience physics phenomena through hands-on participation and applications that demonstrate why things do the things they do.
Visitors become involved in their science lesson and achieve an understanding of scientific concepts through interaction and experimentation, mixed with an element of surprise. Secret features embedded within exhibit pieces provide an element of mystery to be solved by avid participants.
“With the renovation, we wanted to demonstrate that science is everywhere and the scientific process is always revealing new ideas,” said Mackay. “Cool Stuff shows guests what’s fun about science, what’s important about science and ultimately, what’s cool about science.”
The collection of multi-dimensional exhibits allows guests to uncover the extraordinary wonders of science, math, technology and more. Visitors can discover the beauty and strangeness of physics; look at the world in new ways; become aware of new scientific concepts and discover the science behind why things do the things they do.
Cool Stuff is highlighted by three, main areas:
LIFT
“What goes up, must come down” is a fundamental but fun principle of physics. Activities in this area focus on the physics of lifting - making things go up and the challenge of keeping them up against the inevitable force of gravity. Participants can launch objects by utilizing electromagnetic forces or by the explosive force of a chemical reaction. Guests also can experience “full body lift” with an all-new, vacuum-powered chairlift.
LOOK/MOVE
Focusing on the strange and beautiful feats of physics that involve motion, light and heat, exhibits featured in this section illuminate bizarre aspects of the physical world. Using basic tools of science – observation and manipulation – visitors will experience a zone of weird happenings that delight the mind and senses. Guests can explore the invisible light that the human body radiates all day long or bend light around a corner using fiber optics. Other features introduce the element of spin to a seemingly mundane object, only to produce bizarre forces and motion that are totally unexpected.
PUSH
Visitors can explore concepts of mechanical advantage, energy transfer and air pressure in PUSH. Examining how forces make objects move, visitors can perform amazing feats of strength such as crushing a garbage can, winning an impossible tug of war match and shooting a powerful basketball-sized pocket of air that can be felt 30 feet away.
To cool down from “lifting”, “looking” and “pushing”, guests can further investigate and view more applications of chemistry, physics and engineering at Explore More Stuff. Located across from Cool Stuff, Explore More Stuff presents a lab-like environment where matter and energy are explored and tested. Facilitated by experts, kids and adults can experiment with forces that are controlled only by the laws of physics and chemistry.
Participants can design, create and imp
real too
Cool Stuff marks the first of all-new exhibition areas to be showcased in a completely renovated and revitalized
Beginning, Friday, Nov. 27, admission to
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Garrison Keillor VIP Experience details
Charlotte, NC – Meet Garrison Keillor and help the Center’s Education Programs with an exclusive VIP experience when the author and host of "A Prairie Home Companion" comes to the Belk Theater Sunday, November 22 at 7 p.m.
Although the show is nearly sold out, a limited number of orchestra and grand tier seats are available as part of an exclusive VIP Package benefiting the Center’s Educational Programs. Guests will enjoy great seats plus a special post-show reception with Garrison Keillor. They can bring a favorite book and get it signed while enjoying drinks and hors d’oeuvres with this well-known artist.
The VIP ticket package is only $150 (which includes a $90 tax-deductable donation to the Center) and can be purchased by phone at 704-372-1000 or online at BlumenthalCenter.org/Keillor. The VIP experience includes special seating and admission to the reception.
For those who have already purchased a ticket to the show, this special VIP experience is available for a $90 tax-deductable donation to the Center. Call 704-372-1000 for more details.
If you’ve ever heard of A Prairie Home Companion, then there is no doubt that you are familiar with the brilliant storytelling of its host, Garrison Keillor. The American author, humorist, columnist, musician, satirist and radio personality is best known for creating the groundbreaking radio drama in 1974. Keillor captivated audiences during the two-hour variety show with his striking presence, tongue-in-cheek delivery and humorous tales of life in the
AT A GLANCE…
WHAT: AN EVENING WITH GARRISON KEILLOR VIP EXPERIENCE
WHEN: November 22, 2009
WHERE: Belk Theater (
COST: $150 (includes a $90 tax-deductable donation to the Center)
TIX/MORE INFO: BlumenthalCenter.org; 704-372-1000
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Catch 'New Moon' midnight showing at Mez
Mez will be partying Alice Cullen-style with creative cocktails on the exclusive second-story level of the lounge prior to the midnight showing of the movie on Thursday, Nov. 19. To purchase tickets, please visit www.epicentretheaters.com or call 704-688-2400.
New Moon stars Taylor Lautner, Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart and continues the supernatural vampire romance of the 2006 blockbuster hit Twilight. The movie is the second film based on the Twilight book series by Stephenie Meyer. Tickets are $12/VIP or $9/General Admission for evening show times and $9/VIP or $6/General Admission for matinees. Please note that the theater is for ages 21 and over after 7 p.m., and General Admission tickets do not include reserved seats.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
MLB coming to CLT ... for one day
For the first time in nine years, the Charlotte Knights will play host to a Major League Baseball exhibition game next spring. The Knights will play against their parent club, the Chicago White Sox, on April 1, 2010 at Knights Stadium in Fort Mill at 7 p.m.
“This is a great way to kick off the 2010 baseball season hosting the White Sox,” said Knights Vice-President/General Manager Dan Rajkowski. “Knights fans will be excited to see Chicago’s players and will enjoy seeing some former Knights players back here as well.”
“Every spring, we say it takes more than 25 players to win a championship,” said Ken Williams, White Sox senior vice president/general manager. “Each year, players from the Knights come to Chicago to play important roles in helping us win games. We are looking forward to returning to Charlotte to play this exhibition game in front of the city’s great fans. Players you see on both teams at this game will be difference makers in the Major Leagues in 2010. For us, this is one of our first steps in a season we believe will end with a postseason appearance for the White Sox next October.”
“This is just another great example of how Don Beaver and the entire Knights organization give back to their fans and to the Region as a whole,” said Jeff Beaver executive director of the Charlotte Sports Commission. “The tradition of bringing first-class events to our community continues with this game, providing everyone an opportunity to see the Knights and their parent club prepare for the opening of their seasons. It is also another example of our good fortune to have Triple-A baseball!”
The Knights and White Sox faced off in an exhibition in 1999 at Knights Stadium. The last MLB exhibition was held on March 31, 2001 and featured the White Sox playing host to Montreal Expos (now Washington Nationals). The game was held in front of 12,020 fans.
Tickets go on sale to the general public on December 1. Ticket prices will range from $7 – 19. The Knights are offering a special ticket package for the exhibition game and Knights opening day game. Fans can purchase a field box seat for the White Sox exhibition and opening day for $29 or $23 for a lower level reserve seat.
The Knights 2010 home opener is April 15 at 7:15 p.m. vs. the Gwinnett Braves.
The Charlotte Knights are the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. For ticket or event information, please contact the Knights front office at (704) 357-8071 or (803) 548-8050 or visit our website at www.charlotteknights.com for more information.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Opera Carolina to stage 'Porgy & Bess'
Opera Carolina, the leading professional opera company in the region, will bring George Gershwin's blockbuster American opera, Porgy & Bess, to Charlotte for four performances on May 14-16, 2010. The performances are part of the 75th Anniversary Tour, celebrating the 1935 premiere of Porgy & Bess. Single tickets will go on sale to the general public Tuesday, November 2, at 10:00 am.
Prices for single tickets start at $16.00 and may be purchased online at www.operacarolina.org or by calling the North Carolina Blumenthal Performing Arts Center at 704-372-1000.
Widely recognized as the greatest American Opera, Porgy & Bess, by George and Ira Gerswhin, returns to Charlotte after a sell-out performance five years ago. Set in Catfish Row, a Charleston Ghetto, Porgy & Bess is a passionate tale of life during the 1920s. It's a timeless love story between Porgy, a cripple, and Bess, a good but haunted woman. The star-crossed couple finds happiness that ultimately turns to tragedy as Bess is led astray by ghosts from her past - the drug-dealing Sportin' Life and her abusive boyfriend, Crown.
"This is a riveting and timeless story told through a jazz and blues-influenced score," said General Director James Meena. "The drama is captivating and the show-stopping music has entertained audiences for decades. We're fortunate to be able to share this special 75th Anniversary performance with the Charlotte region."
The opera features some of George Gerswhin's best known tunes, including "Summertime," "Ain't Necessarily So," "I Got Plenty O' Nuttin," and "Bess, You Is My Woman Now."
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Bon Jovi is Charlotte-bound in 2010
With New Jersey’s New Meadowlands Stadium as their backdrop, GRAMMY Award-winning hometown heroes Bon Jovi performed at a concert and media event today that announced “The Circle World Tour.” The band is preparing to spend nearly two years spanning the globe, including a stop at Time Warner Cable Arena on April 22.
On sale date for Time Warner Cable Arena show will be released in the upcoming weeks. Fans should continue to log on to www.timewarnercablearena.com for the most up to date concert and ticket on-sale information.
The band’s Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, David Bryan and Tico Torres performed an exclusive set for a select group of 5,000 lucky contest winners, fan club members, and on-site construction workers currently at work building the New Meadowlands Stadium. Bon Jovi was also joined by New York Jets Chairman & CEO Woody Johnson, New York Giants President & CEO, John Mara, as well as President & CEO of the New Meadowlands Stadium Company, Mark Lamping. New York’s powerhouse radio station WPLJ DJ, Race Taylor, served as emcee. Live footage of the event is available at www.BonJovi.com. An embeddable player is available at http://www.iclips.net/widgets/jbj/jbj_embed.html.
Beginning with the band’s North American tour launch on February 19th, 2010 in Seattle, WA, Bon Jovi will spend much of the next two years on the road, performing 135 shows in 30 countries. Following in the footsteps of their hugely successful “Lost Highway Tour, Bon Jovi will draw fans around the world into The Circle, with a residency at London’s O2 Arena in June 2010 before returning to America in the fall for an additional nationwide leg, and further dates well into 2011.
"It is often said that the third time is a charm, and in the case of the Bon Jovi/AEG Live relationship, this axiom certainly holds,” said Randy Phillips, President and CEO of AEG Live. “AEG Live has been honored to serve as the band's worldwide tour promoters, from the 2005 'Have A Nice Day' tour to the highest grossing tour of 2008, 'Lost Highway,' to the upcoming 'The Circle World Tour' in 2010. Bon Jovi is one of the most prolific and exciting live rock bands in the world."
Having sold more than 120 million albums and performed more than 2,600 concerts in over 50 countries for more than 34 million fans, Bon Jovi is at their best when they’re on the move, and that is truer now than ever before. The November 10th, 2009 release of Bon Jovi’s new album, The Circle, and the band’s subsequent world tour, provides a powerful reassertion of Bon Jovi’s commitment to the hard-hitting rock & roll that has been the band’s indelible signature since it began more than 26 years ago.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Kravitz cancels Charlotte concert
Lenny Kravitz has regretfully announced that he must cancel his upcoming concert at The Fillmore in Charlotte, NC due to a scheduling conflict resulting from a vocal injury the artist suffered while performing in New York City last week. The October 27th concert will not be rescheduled during the singer’s current US tour.
Said Lenny Kravitz "I'm very sorry and disappointed to not be able to pay my fans in North Carolina a visit. I was looking forward to returning to Charlotte and perform for everyone there. I look forward to coming back when I head back out on the road in the US next year.”
Refunds will be issued to fans at point of purchase starting Thursday October 22. Tickets purchased online or by phone will be refunded automatically.
Kravitz’s US tour dates are taking place to commemorate the 20th anniversary of his debut release Let Love Rule. The tour will culminate in a headlining performance at the Voodoo Experience Festival in New Orleans, LA on November 1st.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Children's Theatre adds more 'Beauty'
Due to enthusiastic demand, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is delighted to announce added performances to the run of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast”. Children’s Theatre’s original staging of this classic story brings the beloved characters and songs of Disney’s hit movie to life.
In 1991, “Beauty and the Beast” became the first animated film to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. Prompted by the film’s success, Disney developed a stage version with an eye toward Broadway. The resulting show was nominated for 9 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and has thrilled audiences around the world.
While true to the spirit of the movie and show, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s production of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” features all-new costume and scenic designs, conceived specifically for this production. “It was very important to us to bring our own perspectives and thoughts about ‘Beauty and the Beast’ to bear on the design process,” says Artistic Director Alan Poindexter, who directs the production. “We want to honor the magic of this beautiful story with a production that creates new magic for our audience.”
Tickets are available for the following performance times and dates:
Sunday, October 18 6:00 pm (ADDED PERFORMANCE)
Thursday, October 22 7:30 pm
Saturday, October 24 11:00 am (ADDED PERFORMANCE)
Sunday, October 25 6:00 pm (ADDED PERFORMANCE)
All other performances have been sold out.
Performances will be held in the McColl Family Theatre at ImaginOn, 300 East 7th Street. Front Orchestra tickets are $24.00; General Admission tickets are $18.00. For tickets to the productions, call the Children’s Theatre Box Office at 704-973-2828 (10 am-5 pm, Mon.-Fri.) or visit our website: www.ctcharlotte.org. For ages 5+/Grades K+.
Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is supported, in part, with an Operating Grant from the Arts & Science Council, Charlotte-Mecklenburg, Inc. and the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Springsteen to play 'Born to Run' here
Bruce Springsteen & The Legendary E Street Band has just announced that they will perform the “Born to Run” album in its entirety when they play Time Warner Cable Arena on Tuesday, November 3. In addition, hit songs from other albums will be played throughout the show. Tickets are still available through Ticketmaster.
Tickets for the show at Time Warner Cable Arena are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com, the Time Warner Cable Arena box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, or charge by phone by calling 800-745-3000.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
RenFest celebrates its 16th anniversary
To celebrate its 16th anniversary as the Carolinas’ biggest kingdom of outdoor entertainment, the Carolina Renaissance Festival has planned two months of non-stop entertainment, feasting and games, Saturdays & Sundays, October 10th through November 22nd .
At the Carolina Renaissance Festival, the entire 22-acre kingdom forms the set for comic adventures, in which you can be both audience and part of the fun. With a cast of over 500 costumed characters, the festival is like a Monty Python movie come to life.
Festival fans can leave their cares behind and enjoy the pleasures of a simpler time in a storybook town where you can choose from continuous music, dance and comedy shows, shop for wonderful arts and crafts; plus games, rides and a feast of exotic food and drink.
You can throw tomatoes at the insulting fools locked in the stocks at Vegetable Justice. Cheer for your favorite mounted knights (or pirate) at three jousting tournaments each day. Or test your skill at games like the Dragon Climbing Tower, the Archery Range and the Maze.
In the festival’s vast 16th century European village, an expected 160,000 revelers will find shows on 10 stages of continuous entertainment, including fan favorites back for the anniversary celebration:
The sharp wit of the Ded Bob Show.
The Juggling and Comedy antics of London Broil.
All three Tortuga Twins.
Zilch the Torysteller.
The dangerous balancing theatrics of Dextre Tripp.
The dashing swordsman Don Juan and his zany servant Miguel.
Birds of Prey demonstrations of majesty in flight.
Cast in Bronze, America’s Rare Traveling Carillon - Weighing over 13 tons, this unique musical instrument features 48 bronze bells.
And hundreds of minstrels, dancers, jugglers and jesters.
New entertainment this year includes:
Barely Balanced! Acrobatics & Comedy! - Enjoy this trio as they display high energy, dangerous acts of balancing antics accompanied by slapstick comedy.
Ye Olde Public Punishment! - Crooks and criminals beware! Thy fate be sealed whenst the Ye Olde Nottingham Players unleash an interactive public punishment spectacle like no other! Locks, stocks, songs, comedy, and humiliation unfold as you join in on the fun!
Families will enjoy the King, Queen, and there Court (where kids can be knighted by royalty), Mother and Father Goose and their costumed flock, rides on the people-powered Da Vinci’s Flying Machine, Christopher Columbus’ Voyage to the New World, the Slider Joust, and the Piccolo Pony (a rocking horse bigger than an elephant).
The food is as spectacular as the entertainment. Festival kitchens cook up an endless feast of bread bowl stews, steak-on-a-stake, gourmet sausages, and the festival’s famous giant roasted turkey legs.
For dessert, try the fresh crepes, the cakes and cookies from the Monks Bakery, candy delights from the Chocolate Shoppe, and a favorite of all renaissance wanderers: a bag of cinnamon-roasted almonds.
Festival pubs offer soft drinks, beer, wine, champagne, ale, and Medieval Margaritas.
You can also book the Village Haven for group parties and wedding ceremonies.
When the Carolina Renaissance Festival was introduced to the Charlotte area in 1994, the shows took place on three stages amid six acres of village attractions. Now 16 years later, the event has grown to become one of the largest renaissance festivals in the country.
The Village of Fairhaven is now spread over 22 acres with its 10 stages of non-stop entertainment, a tournament arena for jousting, an open-air market with 100 artisan shops, kitchens and pubs, games of skill and the people-powered rides.
Have more fun than you thought possible in a single day at the Carolina Renaissance Festival.
For visitor convenience, the Festival has embraced modern times. In addition to purchasing advanced discount tickets at Harris Teeter stores region-wide, Festival goers can now print their own tickets in advance online at RenFestInfo.com.
The 16th anniversary Carolina Renaissance Festival will be held weekends, Saturdays and Sundays from October 10th through November 22nd. For more event information, call, toll free; 877-896-5544, or on the web at RenFestInfo.com.
WHEN YOU GO:
What: The 16th annual Carolina Renaissance Festival.
Where: North of Charlotte between Concord and Huntersville. The Festival is located on Highway 73 at Poplar Tent Road (between I-77 and I-85).
When: Seven consecutive weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from October 10th through November 22nd. The Festival runs from 10:00 AM until 5:30 PM, rain or shine.
Advance Discount Tickets: $18 for adults, $7 for kids ages 5-12; print your own discount tickets on-line at RenFestInfo.com or available at Harris Teeter Stores region wide. Children under 5 are always free. Tickets purchased at the gate are $1 more. Senior discount tickets (60 and over) are $17 at the gate. Parking is free courtesy of Harris Teeter.
Event Sponsors: The Carolina Renaissance Festival is presented by Harris Teeter, Carolina Blonde, Pepsi, and the Charlotte Observer.
Additional sponsors include Jacob’s Creek, Diamond Springs, Miller, Guinness, Carolina Medical Center NorthEast, DoubleTree Hotel, Sunbelt Rentals, Valpak, Party City, Jersey Mike’s, Dunkin Donuts, Chick-Fil-A, AAA of the Carolinas, SmartBox USA, My School Rock’s Magazine, Parent Teacher Magazine, The Mommies Network, Charlotte Tech Support, and Autobell Carwash.
Information: On line at RenFestInfo.com, or call (704) 896-5544, toll free (877) 896-5544.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Disney train tour rolls into N.C.
CHRISTMAS ROLLS INTO NORTH CAROLINA EARLY THANKS TO THE MAGIC OF DISNEY
Disney offers a sneak peek into a classics’ past, present and future for TWO DAYS ONLY!
WHO/WHAT:
Jump aboard “Disney’s A Christmas Carol” Train Tour and experience a magical world of holiday cheer as Christmas arrives two months early at NC Transportation Museum for a special two day only viewing. Guests will feel like they’re in a winter wonderland complete with snow, carolers & Christmas decorations and will get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the reimagining of the classic Charles Dickens’ tale. In addition, guests will be able to morph themselves into one of the characters as seen in the movie and have the opportunity to see a sneak peek of actual footage in a state-of-the-art two story, inflatable 3D theater.
*This event is free and open to the public.
WHERE:
NC Transportation Museum
411 S. Salisbury Ave. – Spencer, NC
WHEN:
Friday, October 9, 2009
9AM: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the Mayor of Spencer Jody Everhart
9AM–7PM: Open to the Public
Saturday, October 10, 2009
9AM–7PM: Open to the Public
ABOUT THE TOUR:
Sponsored by HP and driven by Amtrak, the Train Tour will travel more than 16,000 miles and pass through 36 states. Visitors can also check out the cutting-edge technology behind the film, as well as artifacts from the Charles Dickens Museum and interactive games. The whole experience is free. A list of cities can be found at www.christmascaroltraintour.com.
ABOUT THE MOVIE:
“Disney’s A Christmas Carol,” a multi-sensory thrill ride re-envisioned by Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, captures the fantastical essence of the classic Dickens tale in a groundbreaking 3-D motion picture event. The film stars Jim Carrey as Ebenezer Scrooge.
“Disney’s A Christmas Carol” opens in theaters on November 6.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Bucky Covington giving FREE concert
“When I was on American Idol the whole town pulled together – all of the business, churches - everyone. They all went above and beyond to help out and show me their support,” remembers Bucky. “Now it’s my time to give back.”
For Covington this homecoming is a way of giving back to the community that has supported him over the years, and to show his deep appreciation he will be hosting an unprecedented party in the city’s Harrington Square featuring a free concert on September 26, 2009 at 7:00pm. In addition to the concert, Covington’s planned activities include taking part in the local BackPack Pals outreach program, which provides nutritional weekend meals and snacks to children whose primary source of food is the local school cafeteria. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a canned good or other non-perishable food item to help support the community’s BackPack Pals program and Our Daily Bread Christian Food Ministry.
“One of the best places to play is at home,” says Bucky. “We’ve had the incredible privilege of playing shows in Europe, Alaska and all across the States, but there’s nothing like going home and performing. Every time you look out at the crowd, you see people you know. And to be able to help out BackPack Pals, which is such a great organization and worthy cause, tops off this homecoming.”
Bucky Covington’s self-titled debut CD opened at #1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart in April 2007 with the biggest first week sales for any debut country artist that year. He's the best selling debut artist of the 2007 class and is one of only three male country artists since 2005 to have three consecutive top 10 singles from his debut album.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
New Blink-182 Charlotte concert date
After much thought and consideration, blink-182 has rescheduled their next two shows in order for Travis Barker to mourn the loss of his dear friend Adam Goldstein. [The show] in Charlotte, NC has moved to October 6th. All previously purchased tickets will be honored and the band will resume their current tour on September 4th in Kansas City, MO.
Travis, Mark and Tom would like to thank all their fans for their support during this difficult time.
For additional information, visit www.blink182.com. Tickets for the October 6 concert are available at LiveNation.com, the venue box office, select BLOCKBUSTER stores or charge by phone 877-598-8698 beginning Friday June 5 at 10am.
Monday, August 31, 2009
O.A.R. to return to Charlotte
O.A.R. returns to the Carolinas for one night only when they play the Uptown Amphitheatre at the Music Factory in Charlotte, NC on October 14th at 7:30pm with special guest Elmwood.
Tickets go on sale Wednesday September 2nd at 10am at LiveNation.com, the Hardee’s Thickburger box office at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, select BLOCKBUSTER stores or charge by phone 877-598-8698.
For more information, directions, or to purchase tickets go to www.livenation.com. For information about upcoming shows or directions call 704-916-8970.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Silversun Pickups coming to Charlotte
Tickets for the Charlotte show on sale 10 a.m. Friday at livenation.com, the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre box office, select Blockbuster stores, or charge by phone 877-598-8698. Special guests An Horse and TBD will open the show at 9 p.m.
Tickets for the Columbia show also go on sale 10 a.m. Friday at livenation.com. Special guests Cage the Elephant and An Horse will open the show at 7 p.m.
Tickets for the Myrtle Beach show on sale 10 a.m. Saturday at the House of Blues box office, houseofblues.com, livenation.com, Ticketmaster, or charge by phone 800-745-3000. Special guests Cage the Elephant and An Horse will open the show.
For more information go to www.livenation.com.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Honor Society to stop in at the EpiCentre
HONOR SOCIETY WILL MAKE A SPECIAL IN STORE APPEARANCE AT THE FUDGERY FUDGE & FUN AT THE EPICENTRE AT 1PM TODAY. The Fudgery is located at 210 East Trade Street in the Epicentre.
The band is opening for The Jonas Brothers tonight at the Time Warner Cable Arena and will be performing at The Fillmore Charlotte for the official after-show of the Jonas Brothers World tour.
To buy tickets or for more information go to www.livenation.com.
Charlotte Symphony rally set for uptown
The Charlotte Symphony will present a rally on the plaza at Independence Square, Trade and Tryon streets, at noon on Thursday, August 27. Ensembles of Charlotte Symphony musicians will perform, and Governor James G. Martin, Chair-elect of the Board of Directors, will speak.
“This has been a challenging and eventful summer for the Symphony,” said Executive Director Jonathan Martin. “Throughout these months, we have been encouraged by the tremendous show of community support, from the generous Summer Pops donations and increased annual fund giving to the strong subscription sales. The Symphony is working diligently to become a healthier institution both financially and artistically, and we will be sharing exciting news next Thursday of our progress so far.”
The Arts & Science Council has asked the Symphony to present a revised financial restructuring plan on September 2. Continued funding from the ASC for FY 2010 is dependent upon the approval of the plan by the ASC.
The Charlotte Symphony is the largest performing arts organization in the Charlotte region. The Symphony opens its 78th season on September 11 and 12. This season marks Christof Perick’s ninth and final season as Music Director. Music Director Designate Christopher Warren-Green will succeed Mr. Perick in the fall of 2010.
'Psycho Beach Party’ hits Charlotte screen
CHARLOTTE – Theatre 650, the twisted little sibling of Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte, is pleased to present its August 2009 Cult Movie Monday featuring the 2000 spoof “Psycho Beach Party”. The film will show Monday, August 31, 2009, at 8:00pm at Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte, located at 650 East Stonewall Street in Uptown.
August’s Cult Film ‘Psycho Beach Party’ is a hilarious spoof of 1950’s psychodrama, the 1960’s beach party/Gidget movies, and the 1970’s slasher films. Lauren Ambrose stars as Florence Forrest, a not-so-innocent girl who becomes “Chicklet”, the first girl surfer at Malibu Beach. Florence suffers from dissociative identity disorder, whose sexually aggressive alter ego occasionally and is suspected in a string of suspicious murders.
Patrons are encouraged to don their best beach attire (swimsuits and/or Hawaiian shirts especially). After the movie, stick around, limbo, and compete for fabulous prizes, like free tickets to upcoming Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte shows. Roxy Moorecox hosts this month’s events.
Cult Movie Mondays are an excellent networking opportunity, as well as a great alternative to the bar scene. Please visit our new website http://www.cultmoviemondays.com for more information. Admission is free to the public, and popcorn is provided for free. Seating is first come, first served and is limited to 220 people. Drink specials include $2 select beers and $3 select wines.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Zac Brown Band at Uptown Amphitheatre
Zac Brown Band will play the Uptown Amphitheatre at the Music Factory in Charlotte, NC on Saturday September 26th at 7pm.
Tickets go on sale Friday August 14th at 10 am at LiveNation.com, the Hardee’s Thickburger box office at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, select BLOCKBUSTER stores or charge by phone 877-598-8698. 4packs available for a limited time while supplies last.
For more information, directions, or to purchase tickets go to www.livenation.com. For information about upcoming shows or directions call 704-916-8970.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
'The Color Purple' returns this month
From a Blumenthal Performing Arts Center press release that just hit our inbox:
The
WHAT: Oprah Winfrey presents THE COLOR PURPLE, The Musical about Love,
WHEN: August 25-30, 2009
WHERE: Belk Theater (
COST: Tickets start at $35
TIX/MORE INFO: BlumenthalCenter.org; 704-372-1000 or at the performing arts center box office in the Belk Theater lobby
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Top chefs take center stage at show
If you are ready to explore the newest designs, colors and innovations in the world of kitchens and baths, you are in luck. The Southern Kitchen & Bath Show is Aug. 28-30 at The Park, formerly the Charlotte Merchandise Mart. And this is a two-fer, folks. The show is held in conjunction with the Southern Ideal Home Show and one ticket takes you into both events.
In fact, the same ticket also buys you cooking classes, conversations with top chefs and tempting tastes of gourmet goodies. And, it’s an $8 ticket if you buy in advance; or $9 if you wait until show time. Such a deal.
Who will be cooking for you? The line-up is impressive, and includes chefs Chris Coleman, McNinch House; Greg Thompson, Morton’s the Steakhouse; Luca Annunziata, Passion 8; Geoff Bragg, The Pewter Rose; Tulsi Pai, Soma Indian Grill and sous chef Luke DeBisschop from The Pewter Rose. Plus, don’t miss long time favorite culinary expert, and food and wine educator Heidi Billotto.
This all-star cast of chefs will be on the Cambria Cooking Stage throughout the show. Check www.SouthernKitchenAndBathShow.com for who’s on when.
Cooking, tasting, learning and listening at the Cooking stage will be fun and possibly filling, but guests will also have a major bonus. The show is filled with counter tops, cabinets, spas, tubs, hardware, and everything you’d visualize in a first class kitchen, as well as the ultimate bathroom.
Add to that mix all that the Southern Ideal Home Show offers, with nationally recognized home improvement and design speakers, plus hundreds of exhibitors with products, services and experts in building, remodeling, decorating, landscaping and more – and, you have the perfect recipe for a homeowner, food-lover’s, dream day.
Here are the details you’ll need to plan your visit.
What: Southern Kitchen & Bath Show
When: August 28-30
Hours: Friday Aug. 28 – Noon-9:00p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. and Sunday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Where: The Park, formerly Charlotte Merchandise Mart, 2500 E. Independence Blvd.
Admission: $9 (includes Southern Ideal Home Show); $8 in advance; Seniors (Friday only) $7. Under 15 free with paying adult.
Money-Saving Coupons, Schedules, and Details at: www.SouthernKitchenAndBathShow.com or call 800-849-0248.
Irish Summer Festival coming back to uptown
The third annual Charlotte Irish Summer Festival returns to Uptown on Saturday, August 15 at Third and Tryon streets. The event, celebrating all things Irish, will feature live entertainment, vendors, a Kids Corner and new attractions including Irish Dance Lessons, RiRa Dunk Tank, Dublin Dog Oasis, Tullamore Dew Putting Green and an onsite genealogist to help attendees trace their Irish roots.
“With such a thriving Irish community and support from the City, it’s our goal to continue to grow Charlotte's Irish Summer Festival into a destination event with visitors from all over the country,” said Ireland native and festival founder Kevin Devin, who is also co-owner of Connolly’s on Fifth. “In this economy, we couldn’t do it without community and sponsor support so we are particularly thankful to all of our partners.”
Official festival partners include: NewsTalk 1110 WBT: Official Radio Partner; Courtyard Charlotte City Center: Official Hotel Partner; Hawk Recycling: Official Green Partner; Guinness and Budweiser American Ale: Official Beers; Red Bull: Official Energy Drink; Zingo: Official Safe Ride Home.
Featuring authentic Irish dancers, music, food, drink, crafts and games, festivities kick off at noon and run until midnight. Admission is free from noon until 5pm with a $10 cover charge after that. Onsite donations will benefit the Festival's charity partners, Classroom Central and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Classroom Central will have bins at all entrances collecting school supplies and the first 100 attendees who donate will receive an official Charlotte Irish Summer Festival item.
With something for all ages, free daytime activities include: Kids Corner with moon bounce, face painting, games, Irish dance lessons, Corn Hole tournament and performances by the Rince na h’Eireann and Walsh Kelley Schools of Irish Dance.
New additions to this year’s festival include: an art exhibition, RiRa Dunk Tank, Tullamore Dew Putting Green, Dublin Dog Oasis, Gaelic Football Hurling challenge presented by the Charlotte Gaelic Football Club, Highland Games Exhibition and an attempt to break the world record for longest choreographed Irish Dance with the help of two local Irish dance schools.
The afternoon and evening entertainment lineup includes bands on the main stage with performances by Dublin City Ramblers, The Prodigals, Vertigo, Trad At Heart, McLean Avenue, The Fighting 86’s, My Three Kilts and Jimmy Brown and The Badly Loved.
"The Charlotte Irish Summer Festival is becoming an integral part of our summer calendar," said Moira Quinn, SVP of Communications for Charlotte Center City Partners. "Cultural events like this enrich our lives and bring energy to the urban core, helping to make our Uptown a memorable and inviting place to be."
Monday, August 3, 2009
School of Rock to play Woodstock tribute
On Saturday, August 15th, 2009, The Paul Green School of Rock Music Charlotte will be one of 40+ nationwide music schools to collectively participate in celebrating the 40th anniversary of Woodstock.
The nation’s premiere performance-based rock music school for ages 7-18 will be hosting their Woodstock concert event rain or shine from 1-8pm at the renowned Symphony Park at Southpark, located at 4400 Sharon Rd. Charlotte NC.
Officially sanctioned by Woodstock Ventures’ Michael Lang, Joel Rosenman and Jennifer Roberts, the Charlotte festival is amongst 40 concert events that will feature local kids from School of Rock branches around the country. The kids will serve to pass the torch to a new generation of rockers, spreading the message of peace, love and rock ‘n roll. The School of Rock kids in the northeast will also be featured in the upcoming 2-hour documentary Woodstock: Now & Then set for broadcast in August on VH1 and The History Channel.
“It’s really about bringing Woodstock to the next generation,” said Woodstock founder Michael Lang. “Roots are important, musical and cultural, and 40 years after the Festival, we’re thrilled to have kids from the Paul Green School of Rock join us as the youngest part of the Anniversary celebration.”
School of Rock founder Paul Green expressed his excitement as well, “At the School of Rock, we believe that music and its enjoyment should not be limited by when it was created. We are truly honored to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Woodstock, a monumental musical and cultural event.”
The Paul Green School of Rock Show Team (directed by Phil Black) will perform hits by classic Woodstock artists such as Santana, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix. Also featured will be local band icons performing tribute shows: Lenny Federal (Variety), Case Federal and the Agents (The Band), Crackers and Snackmeat (The Who) Duk Tan (Santana), Marcy Hernandez (Joan Baez), ES Guthrie (Joe Cocker) Chris English and the North Americans (Variety) and many more.
Over 15 vendors of local food and beer, handmade jewelry, crafts, clothing, henna artists, face painters and other sundry goods will be hosting booths throughout the day to round out the Woodstock experience.
Sponsored by Volkswagen, 95.7 The Ride and Highland Brewery, The Woodstock 40th Anniversary celebration is all-ages and open to the general public. Admission is FREE and more information can be found on http://www.SchoolofRockWoodstock.com.
Live Nation expands 'No Service Fee Wednesday'
Straight from a LiveNation.com press release that just moved into our inbox:
Live Nation announced that this Wednesday, in addition to extending the popular half-price ticket special in its amphitheaters, the company is for the first time expanding its No Service Fee program to include more than 1,500 shows in its theaters and clubs, including House of Blues and Fillmore venues, making hundreds of thousands of additional no-fee tickets available for the first time to concerts by new and developing artists across North America.
Both promotions, which together include shows at 86 venues across North America, will kick off at 12:01 a.m. local time on August 5, 2009 and run for 24 hours only at www.livenation.com.
“This summer, through our Wednesday ticket promotions, concert fans have saved nearly 10 million dollars on tickets to amphitheater shows by some of the biggest artists in the world,” said Michael Rapino, President and Chief Executive Officer of Live Nation. “As we near the end of a very successful summer season we want to bring the same value to music fans who enjoy shows at House of Blues and other theaters and clubs across North America. This Wednesday hundreds of thousands of additional tickets will be available with no service fee, making it easier for even more fans to discover and connect with the amazing artists playing in these smaller venues today, some of whom will be headlining amphitheaters and arenas tomorrow.”
Subject to availability at participating venues and select shows. Parking and other fees may apply. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. General admission or reserved seats where applicable. Half Price Tickets promotion: service fees will be charged, will execute via a 50% discount off the total price and fees of tickets in multiples of two.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Roller Girls to hold exhibition at speedway
What’s better on a summer night than roller derby? How about a roller derby exhibition bout combined with a night of racing. On August 4, the Charlotte Roller Girls will hold an exhibition bout at Lowe’s Motor Speedway during the track’s weekly Summer Shootout Series. It will mark the first time in history that the Charlotte Roller Girls will bout at the world famous speedway.
“Race cars have four wheels and roller girls skate with eight. I guess that means roller derby is double the excitement,” said league president Cress Barnes a.k.a Lucy Kwipment. “Racing and roller derby have a lot in common. Both turn left and the leaders try to lap the field. The fans are in for a real treat.”
In addition to the exhibition bout, a full night of Legends Cars, Bandolero Cars and CrashCARS racing is scheduled. Adult tickets are $7 and the gates open at 5:00 p.m. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. with the Charlotte Roller Girls scheduled for 8:30 p.m. For details visit www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.
“We will be skating on the banked frontstretch which is a bit different than the flat tracks we normally compete on,” said Barnes. “Also, the fans will be a lot farther away than we are used to. At our home bouts, fans can sit trackside and if they are lucky, might end up with a roller girl in their lap. No other sport lets you get closer to the action!”
The next home bout for the Charlotte Roller Girls is on August 9. Held at the Grady Cole Center (310 N. Kings Drive), it’s the second qualifying bout of the 2009 intra-league championship. Tickets are on sale now for $10 at www.charlotterollergirls.com or in person at any Common Market. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $14.
Organized in 2006, the Charlotte Roller Girls is an all-female flat track roller derby league formed with the purpose of promoting the sport of roller derby and enriching the Charlotte community. It is a not-for-profit organization that donates its time and a portion of bout proceeds to local charitable causes. It holds its home bouts at the Grady Cole Center in Charlotte and its 2009 season runs from February through October.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Brand New to play The Fillmore
Straight from a LiveNation.com press release that just moved into our inbox:
Brand New with special guest Thrice will play The Fillmore Charlotte on November 9th.Tickets go on sale MONDAY AUGUST 10th at 1pm at LiveNation.com, select BLOCKBUSTER stores, or charge by phone 877-598-8698. 4-packs are available for a limited time while supplies last.
Tickets for all events at both The Fillmore Charlotte and the Uptown Amphitheatre are also available at the Hardee’s Thickburger box office at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre.
Jason Mraz concert rescheduled
The Jason Mraz concert scheduled to play The Uptown Amphitheatre in Charlotte on Tuesday July 28 was postponed mid-concert due to a major storm and concern for safety of patrons. In order to try to take care of as many fans as possible, Jason Mraz, G.Love, and Live Nation agreed move the show to The Fillmore Charlotte for a special acoustic performance.
Jason Mraz has agreed to return to The Uptown Amphitheatre to play a rescheduled concert on September 10. Patrons who could not attend the acoustic performance are encouraged to hold on to their tickets as they will be valid night of show on the new date.
Patrons who opted not to attend the acoustic performance will be allowed a refund starting at 10am Wednesday July 29th at point of purchase. Patrons who purchased tickets online or via phones need to mail their tickets to Live Nation Ticketing, PO Box 1090, Crozet, VA 22932. If using any other delivery service, tickets should be shipped to Live Nation Ticketing, 5391 Three Notch’d Rd, Crozet, VA 22932.
Tickets for the rescheduled concert will be available at a later date to be announced soon.
For more information go to www.livenation.com.