VH1 casts 'spoiled' Gastonia woman

Fans of trashy reality TV shows: Get ready to root for (or against, maybe?) a bunch of spoiled brats.

The new VH1 series "You're Cut Off!" will feature Courtnee Mason of Gastonia among a cast of nine spoiled young women who "are turned loose by their fed-up benefactors, stripped of all cash and convenience and forced to live like 'normal people' -- right in the middle of a recession." The series premieres at 9 p.m. Wednesday, June 9.

According to a VH1 press release, the 25-year-old Mason and her showmates "must complete daily chores and learn hard lessons from life coach Laura Baron. More than just getting the hang of buying groceries and vacuuming, their transformation is about finding the confidence and independence to grow up and to realize there's more to this world than material wealth."

Sneak-peek episodes of "You're Cut Off!" will launch at VH1.com the week prior to each on-air premiere. Full episodes will be available on the site the morning after they premiere.

Charlotte to host Playboy Bunny bash

Mez, a restaurant and lounge in the EpiCentre, has partnered with Playboy to host a party on June 10 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Playboy Clubs and Playboy Bunny.

Beginning at 10 p.m. on that Thursday, Mez will turn one of its theatres into a "Playboy Club," "illuminated with historic images and video footage from the famed Clubs." The featured guest is Playboy Playmate/N.C. native Amanda Paige (Miss October 2005, pictured). DJ Fashen will spin music.

This event is one of 50 parties Playboy will throw around the world in June to celebrate the milestone.

Tickets are available for $10 through www.bandtastic.com/playboyclub50, or for $20 at the door. Details: www.mezcharlotte.com or www.playboyclub50.com.

Santana's Charlotte show canceled

The Santana concert scheduled to play Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre in Charlotte on July 28 has been canceled due to scheduling. Refunds will be available at point of purchase starting Monday. Tickets purchased by phone or online will be refunded automatically.

For more information, go to www.livenation.com.

Theory of a Deadman concert moved

Due to the potential for inclement weather, tonight's concert featuring Theory of a Deadman and White Tie Affair, which was scheduled for Pavilion at EpiCentre, has been moved indoors to Whisky River.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with White Tie Affair slated to take the stage at 7 p.m. Those with VIP tickets can enter at Whisky River's front door, on the second floor of EpiCentre.

Another 'Sex' party, this one at Birkdale

Looking for an alternative to the EpiCentre's "Sex and the City 2" parties? Here are details from a press release about a similar bash taking place next week at Birkdale Village in Huntersville:

HUNTERSVILLE, NC -- Grab your girlfriends and get ready for more Sex.

That’s right -- Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda are back for “Sex and the City 2” and you can see it before anyone else on May 26 at Birkdale Village while helping out a very deserving charity.

Organizer Bruna Oliveira and her team raised more than $30,000 at a premiere party in 2008 for the first film. This year’s event is expected to best that fundraising total while living up to the theme of Bigger than Big, with proceeds benefitting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Wednesday’s sneak peek event will be extravagant and decadent, packed with food, fun, fashion, cocktails, swag bags and of course “Sex and the City 2,” which attendees will see before everyone else (the film opens nationally on Thursday, May 27).

Each $100 ticket includes admission to the event that begins at 5:30 p.m. with a pre-show cocktail party at Dressler’s Restaurant, 8630-1A Lindholm Drive, Huntersville, complete with cocktails and delicious food, followed by a private screening of the film at Regal Birkdale Stadium 16.

Along the way, there will be belly dancing lessons, camels (or is it a mirage?) and a best shoe contest, in which the winner will take home a pair of Carrie’s favorite kicks. And don’t miss the fantastic silent auction jammed with prizes from local spas, restaurants and boutiques.

The simply fabulous night wraps up with a post-screening champagne and dessert party at Dressler’s Restaurant. The 2008 event sold out quickly, and this event is expected to as well. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Attendees must be 21 or older.

Tickets are on sale at Fresh Boutique, 813 Providence Road, Charlotte, 704.343.9071, shopfreshboutique.com; Monkee’s of Lake Norman, 624 Jetton St., Davidson, 704.896.7779, monkeesoflakenorman.com; and Poppies, 16926 Birkdale Commons Parkway, Huntersville, poppiesgifts.com, 704.896.3433.

Uptown's EpiCentre is primed for 'Sex'

Are you excited about "Sex and the City 2"? So is the EpiCentre.

Two hotspots at the dining/entertainment/shopping complex are celebrating this month's release of the anticipated movie sequel in their own special ways.

At StrikeCity: Four lucky women will win VIP passes to a special "Sex and the City 2" prescreening; they'll be given away Thursday night at StrikeCity’s weekly ladies extravaganza, "Strike and the City."

To be eligible to win, simply arrive at StrikeCity at 8 p.m. and begin bowling. Details of the contest will be announced during the course of the evening.

The special "Sex and the City 2" prescreening will take place on Wednesday, May 26, at EpiCentre Theaters. Additional information about the prescreening is available at www.officialprescreening.com. More information about "Strike and the City" is available at www.StrikeAndTheCity.com.

At Mez: On Thursday, May 27, the restaurant/lounge/movie theater welcomes Carrie and the gang back to the big screen by hosting a viewing party for the premiere of "Sex and the City 2."

DJ Mia from MTV’s "America’s Best Dance Crew" will be on hand, and prizes will be given away before and after the screening. A portion of all proceeds will be used to support breast health awareness. The party begins at 8 p.m. and the movie starts at 9:25 p.m.

Tickets to the event are $25 each and include champagne, dessert, giveaways and swag bags. For reservations or details, call 704-688-2400 or visit www.mezcharlotte.com or www.epicentretheaters.com.

Both StrikeCity and Mez are located at 210 E. Trade St. in Charlotte.

Concert news: Zac Brown Band, Gov't Mule

Several more recent announcements:

Zac Brown Band will play Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Saturday, Aug. 21. The Wood Brothers and Casey Driessen will open the show. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday.

Gov’t Mule will play Uptown Amphitheatre at the Music Factory on Sunday, July 18. Jackie Greene will open the show at 6:30 pm. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Monday.

ZZ Top will open for Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers during a concert set for Sunday, Sept. 19, at Verizon.

Those three shows are all being promoted by Live Nation, so tickets will be available at LiveNation.com, the venue box office, Ticketmaster, or by calling 800-745-3000.

'The A-Team' cast is coming to speedway

The stars of surefire summer blockbuster "The A-Team" will make an appearance at this year's Coca-Cola 600 on May 30 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord.

According to a CMS press release, Bradley Cooper ("The Hangover"), Jessica Biel ("I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry"), Sharlto Copley ("District 9") and Quinton "Rampage" Jackson (of Ultimate Fighting Championship fame) "will deploy on a secret mission" during the pre-race festivities for the 51st running of the Memorial Day Weekend race.

In addition, the movie stars will serve as honorary race officials for the Coca-Cola 600 and take part in various activities around the speedway prior to the main event.

"The A-Team" is a reboot of the popular 1980s TV series about a colorful team of former Special Forces soldiers who were set up for a crime they did not commit and have gone "rogue" in an effort to clear their names. Cooper is Lt. Templeton 'Faceman' Peck, Jackson is Sgt. Bosco 'B.A.' Baracus, Copley is Capt. 'Howling Mad' Murdock, and Biel plays an officer pursuing the team. The film -- which also stars Liam Neeson -- opens nationwide June 11. Click here for more details on it.

Tickets for the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway can be purchased online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-455-FANS. Friends and family four-pack tickets start at just $39.75 per person. The race also will be televised live on FOX at 5 p.m., and can be heard on the radio through the Performance Racing Network beginning at 4:45 p.m.

Cavalia adds more dates to uptown run

Cavalia, the equestrian and performing arts show, has extended its stay in Charlotte through Friday, May 28. Originally, the show had announced that it would close on May 14 -- although adding weeks is typical for Cavalia, which generally stays in a city until ticket sales indicate demand is slowing down.

Tickets can be purchased here, or at the box office at Morehead and Clarkson streets, just west of Bank of America Stadium.

To celebrate its 1,500th performance, a Buy-3-Get-1-Free deal is going on now if you purchase in person at the box office or by phone at 1-866-999-8111. You just need to mention the promotion code, which is "horse."

One other note: Cavalia is due in New Jersey for a run that starts June 9, so it's almost certainly not going to be extended in Charlotte beyond the 28th.

Brooklyn Decker, Glamour girl

Brooklyn Decker has landed another magazine cover.

The 5-foot-9, 23-year-old swimsuit model is striking (as usual) in a yellow bikini on the cover of the June issue of Glamour, which also features models Crystal Renn and Alessandra Ambrosio.

The magazine's cover spread features its "Kind of Swimsuit Issue, which spotlights the three beauties but also includes swimsuit ideas for women of various shapes and sizes -- including "athletic," "big-bottomed," "short-torsoed," "pear-shaped" ladies, and more.

In Decker's two-page spread, the blonde wears a black and white striped bikini and a revealing black and blue one-piece. She's asked whether it was hard to find her place in modeling because she doesn't have a rail-thin build. Her reply: "I got successful once I accepted I'm athletic, I have boobs. I set my own standard."

Mrs. Andy Roddick -- who appeared earlier this year on the cover of Sports Illustrated's swimsuit issue -- also reveals that she lives in Brooklyn and was named after a horse called Brook.

Decker is currently working on a movie with Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston titled "Just Go For It," which is being shot in Hawaii.

Jonas Brothers returning to Charlotte

Jonas Brothers recently announced that their three-continent summer concert tour with special guest Demi Lovato will stop at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Sunday, Oct. 17.

According to a press release, "the tour will combine spectacular production with unrivaled performances of Jonas Brothers' and Demi Lovato's hits as well as music from Disney Channel Original Movies, 'Camp Rock' and 'Camp Rock 2.'"

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 22 at LiveNation.com, the Hardee’s Thickburger Box office at the venues, Ticketmaster or charge by phone 800-745-3000.

'Wicked' announces lottery for $25 seats

From a Blumenthal Performing Arts Center press release that just popped into my inbox:

A day-of-performance lottery for a limited number of orchestra seats will be held daily for WICKED, which will be performing from May 19 to June 13 at Ovens Auditorium. Each day, 2½ hours prior to show time, people who present themselves at the Ovens Auditorium box office will have their names placed in a lottery drum and then, thirty minutes later, names will be drawn for a limited number of orchestra seats at $25 each, cash only. This lottery is available only in-person at the box office, with a limit of two tickets per person. The Ovens parking lot will be open for lottery participants starting three hours before curtain and there will be no charge for parking. Please identify yourself as a lottery participant to the lot attendant.

Called “a cultural phenomenon” by Variety and just named “the defining musical of the decade” by The New York Times, WICKED continues to thrill audiences around the world. There are currently eight productions of WICKED worldwide, including two North American tours, a Broadway production, San Francisco production, London production, a Japanese-language production, a German-language production and Australian production. A Dutch-language production of WICKED will open in 2011.

WICKED begins performances on Wednesday, May 19. Tickets can be purchased online at www.blumenthalcenter.org, by phone at 704.372.1000, or in person at the Belk Theater box office. For best seat locations, please check weeknight performances and the special Thursday matinee on May 20.

Concert news: Maxwell, Styx, Danzig

Three notable concerts were announced late Monday afternoon:

R&B star Maxwell returns to Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte on June 29. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 15.

Rock legends Styx and Foreigner will headline the United in Rock Tour, which is coming to the Uptown Amphitheatre on June 8. Kansas will open. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 15.

Danzig will play The Fillmore Charlotte on June 16 as part of a special nine-city concert trek that will usher in the release of the hardcore/dark metal band's first new studio album in six years. Openers are Gorgeous Frankenstein and Seventh Void. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, May 14.

These are all Live Nation shows, so tickets can be purchased at LiveNation.com, the venue box offices, all Ticketmaster outlets, or by phone at 800-745-3000.

Concert news: Bizkit, Crowes, Maroon 5

Four notable concerts were announced over the weekend:

Metalheads Limp Bizkit will play Uptown Amphitheatre at the Music Factory in Charlotte on July 8. Hip-hop duo Method Man & Redman will open the show. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 15.

Rock band The Black Crowes will bring their Say Goodnight to the Bad Guys Tour to the Uptown Amphitheatre at the Music Factory on Saturday, Sept. 18. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, May 14.

Pop-rockers Maroon 5 will headline a concert at Davidson College's John Belk Arena on Aug. 24, with support from opening acts Kris Allen (winner of "American Idol" Season 8) and UK soul diva V V Brown. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. June 4.

Country artist Trent Tomlinson will play a FREE show Thursday night, May 13, at Whisky River in the EpiCentre uptown.

American Idol Live! tour coming to Verizon

From a Live Nation press release that just popped into my inbox:

Los Angeles, CA (April 28, 2010) – As announced on last night’s top-rated American Idol performance show, tickets for this year’s hotly anticipated American Idol Live! Tour will go on sale in select markets beginning May 14^th at LiveNation.com. The American Idol Live! Tour 2010 will feature the American Idol Season 9 top 10 contestants Didi Benami, Crystal Bowersox, Lee DeWyze, Andrew Garcia, Casey James, Aaron Kelly, Michael Lynche, Siobhan Magnus, Katie Stevens, and Tim Urban.

THE AMERICAN IDOL LIVE! TOUR will play Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre in Charlotte on Sunday July 25. Tickets go on sale Saturday May 15 at 10am at LiveNation.com, the Hardee’s Thickburger Box office at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Ticketmaster or charge by phone 800-745-3000.

America’s #1 show will make 49 stops this summer at a mix of top arenas and amphitheaters across North America giving fans a chance once again to catch their favorite “Idols” performing live in a town near them. The Live Nation promoted tour begins on July 1^st at the Palace of Auburn Hills in Detroit and runs through September 14^th in Pittsburgh at the Consol Energy Center.

Simon Fuller, creator and executive producer of American Idol stated, “We are all looking forward to this year’s American Idol Live! Tour. This is always one of the highlights of the year. Each of the Idols have the chance to meet the people that voted for them and perform at incredible venues all over America, another special moment in their developing careers.”

A limited number of 4-Pack ticket packages will be offered for $79* plus service charges and fees, while supplies last.

To purchase tickets and for complete tour information, fans can visit AmericanIdol.com and LiveNation.com. Event times and dates are subject to change.

Pat Benatar to perform at Speed Street

From a ASPIRE Communications press release that just popped into my inbox:

HARRISBURG, N.C. (May 7, 2010) – Four-time Grammy-winning female rock vocalist Pat Benatar will light up the Coca-Cola stage at Food Lion Speed Street on Saturday, May 29 accompanied by husband Neil Giraldo, accomplished guitarist, songwriter and producer. As a founding partner of Food Lion Speed Street, Coca-Cola will present this duo for free beginning at 9:15 p.m. ET.

As one of music’s top-selling female artists, Benatar is known for hits like “Love is a Battlefield,” “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” “We Belong” and “Heartbreaker.” As designated by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), she was one of the 1980’s Top Platinum Album Recipients based on receiving two RIAA-certified multi-platinum albums, five RIAA-certified platinum albums, three RIAA-certified gold albums and 19 Top 40 singles.

“Pat Benatar is a rock icon and to have her performing at Food Lion Speed Street is a great honor for us and the fans,” said Jay Howard, president of JHE Production Group Inc. and event promoter and producer. “The young at heart and today’s youth know her songs and can relate. This will be a powerhouse concert for the city of Charlotte to enjoy.”

By Benatar’s side for many years, both on stage and personally, Giraldo has been the consistent musical leader of the band for more than three decades. He joined forces with Benatar in 1978 prior to making In The Heat of the Night and assumed a position as lead guitarist and musical arranger. Since that time, Giraldo has written numerous songs and helped produce the Crimes of Passion album in 1980. He has produced all of Benatar’s alums since Crimes of Passion and assisted several artists’ with album production as well.

Located in the heart of Charlotte, Food Lion Speed Street delivers an unprecedented experience to an estimated 400,000 fans by means of live entertainment, access to NASCAR’s brightest stars, and vendor displays from sponsors Food Lion, Coca-Cola, Miller Lite, Chevrolet and many more.

Musical performances for the three-day festival begin Thursday, May 27 at one of two stages – the Miller Lite stage located in the parking lot at the corner of Third Street and Poplar Street and the Coca-Cola stage which intersects with East Trade Street and Tryon Street.

Admission to Food Lion Speed Street is free. Gates open each day at 12 p.m. ET. For a complete schedule of events, visit www.600festival.com, Food Lion Speed Street’s Facebook page or follow on Twitter @flspeedstreet.

Uptown Charlotte gets a jazz festival

From a Live Nation press release that just popped into my inbox:

Charlotte, NC – On June 26, 2010, Uptown Charlotte will reverberate with the sounds and rhythms of some of the world’s greatest jazz performers at the inaugural Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest. The event will be held at the Uptown Amphitheatre at The Music Factory in Charlotte, North Carolina. The show will start at 6:00 p.m. The Uptown Amphitheatre is located at 823 Hamilton Street, Charlotte, North Carolina.

The Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest will bring together local and international artists to North Carolina. Confirmed artists include legendary contemporary jazz band The Rippingtons featuring Russ Freeman, guitarist Norman Brown, saxophonist Mike Phillips featuring Maysa, and contemporary jazz guitarist Ken Navarro.

The Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest will quickly becoming a highly anticipated event in the Carolinas attracting festival attendees from the Southeast region. Many will come just for the music, while others enjoy the shopping and fine dining Uptown Charlotte has to offer. As we move ahead, the strategy is to expand The Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest and position it as a “destination event”, attracting thousands of “out-of-towners” to Charlotte, North Carolina.

Tickets are ON SALE NOW and are available through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com, www.livenation.com, www.uptowncharlottejazzfest.com or the Fillmore/Uptown Box Office. To charge by phone call 800-745-3000.

For information about the 1^st Annual Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest, visit www.uptowncharlottejazzfest.com or call the event hotline at 704-365-4587. For directions to the Uptown Amphitheatre visit www.livenation.com or call 704-916-8970. All media inquiries should be directed to Tonya Ellison, The Event Authority, LLC at 704-365-4587. Sponsorship requests should be directed to Tammy Greene at 704-534-4228 or Charles Whitfield at 310-489-3122.

Get up close with James Taylor, Carole King

From a Shore Fire Media press release that just popped into my inbox:

Carole King and James Taylor are offering fans the opportunity-of-a-lifetime, to see two musical icons up-close-and-personal with 'intimate and in the round' Stage Seats on their Troubadour Reunion Tour. The VIP Stage Seats were designed as tables for two surrounding the center stage performance. The innovative design recreates the intimacy of a vintage nightclub within the high-energy atmosphere of a modern arena performance--paying tribute to Carole King and James Taylor's legendary 1970 performances at L.A.'s famed Troubadour club.

All VIP Stage Seat Packages benefit established charities, including the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Alliance for the Wild Rockies, which Ms. King and Mr. Taylor have long championed--plus more than 90 additional national and local charitable organizations. The VIP Stage Seat Packages are estimated to raise over $1 million for charity and are available for 37 of the Troubadour Reunion North American concerts.

VIP Stage Seat Packages are available exclusively at www.ticketsforcharity.com

VIP Stage Seat Packages include:

* One Stage Seat (arranged in tables for two)
* Special access to Carole King and James Taylor's sound check session
* Pre-performance private reception with complimentary wine, beer and hors d'oeuvres
* Special Event Tour Laminate
* Commemorative Troubadour Reunion Tour Book

"When we first talked about reuniting, we knew we wanted to bring the Troubadour to life," said Mr. Taylor. "These Stage Seats are one small way to pay homage. We also saw a national reunion tour as an opportunity to support the great work that charities are doing all across the U.S."

"Creating this unique stage seating for charity was very exciting for me-- and I felt, a very natural extension of my collaboration with James. We are both as passionate about the importance of giving back as we are about our music. And we're thrilled to have the opportunity to positively impact so many outstanding social and environmental causes with this tour," said Ms. King.

While the VIP Stage Seating packages are just now going on public sale, limited fan club pre-sales--in just a matter of days--raised over $600,000 for some of the nation's most admired non-profits, including Autism Speaks, Habitat for Humanity and many more. These one-of-a-kind Stage Seat Charity Packages are now available for sale to the general public, and can be purchased by visiting www.ticketsforcharity.com or calling Tickets-for-Charity at 1-866-567-4576. A complete listing of all charities supported by Tickets for Charity can also be found at www.ticketsforcharity.com

StrikeCity is looking out for the ladies

From a Full House Productions e-mail that just popped into my inbox:

The legendary Tammy Wynette opens her hit song Stand by Your Man with the lyrics, Sometimes its hard to be a woman. StrikeCity knows these words are true and they are standing by the lovely ladies of the Queen City with a new, weekly ladies night sure to please Strike and the City!

Every Thursday night, StrikeCity caters to the fairer sex with half-price martinis, free shoe rental, plus an increased level of attention and pampering. In addition, StrikeCity will roll out specialty skinny menu items including seared tuna, salmon bruschetta, veggie spring rolls, lettuce wraps, chicken skewers and more all prepared to order by Librettos Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen.

The Strike and the City premiere is Thursday night, May 6, at 8 p.m. with a designer bag and shoes give-a-way! Plus, the first 50 ladies to RSVP online will receive an exclusive Strike Swag Bag, filled with extra surprises and goodies! To RSVP for the Strike and the City premiere, log on to StrikeAndTheCity.com.

StrikeCity is proud to partner with the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society for Strike and the City. According to its website, the National MS Society is a collective of passionate individuals who want to do something about MS nowto move together toward a world free of multiple sclerosis. A portion of the proceeds from Strike and the City will benefit the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. For more information about the society, log on to www.nationalmssociety.org.

At StrikeCity you get more than just strikes, spares and 7-10 splits. StrikeCity is the next generation of bowling, taking traditional elements of the sport and kicking it up a notch with modern lanes, sleek amenities and state-of-the-art scoring. In addition to world-class bowling, StrikeCity offers dozens of flat screen televisions throughout the venue, a delicious menu from Librettos Authentic NYC Pizza and Italian Kitchen that goes beyond traditional bowling alley food standards, and a fully-stocked bar with an extensive beer list all in a stylish and comfortable setting. Located at the EpiCentre in uptown Charlotte, StrikeCity is the perfect place to challenge your friends to a ten pin showdown, host your next group outing, have a few drinks or catch the big game. StrikeCity is more than a bowling alley its an experience.

Additional information is available online at StrikeCityCharlotte.com; track the happenings at StrikeCity on Twitter at twitter.com/StrikeCityCLT or connecting with StrikeCity on Facebook.

Concert news: Jordin Sparks, Counting Crows

Three major tours announced Charlotte dates over the weekend:

Season 6 "American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks will bring her Batttlefield Tour to the Fillmore Charlotte on Sunday, June 20. Pop singer Kate Voegele is the opening act. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, May 7 ...

Counting Crows return to Charlotte’s Uptown Amphitheatre on Wednesday, July 14, with their Traveling Circus and Medicine Show. Rockers Augustana will open the show. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, May 7 ...

Widespread Panic returns to Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre in Charlotte for back-to-back shows on Friday, July 30, and Saturday, July 31. Food drives will be held both nights to benefit local food banks. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 8.

Children's Theatre announces 2010-11 season

From a Children's Theatre of Charlotte press release that just popped into our inbox:

A strong lineup of productions for the 2010-11 season continues Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s commitment to providing theatre that entertains, challenges and inspires young people and families. In its 63^rd year, the Theatre presents a wide range of shows, including musical spectacular Disney’s Aladdin, the return of popular holiday production Scrooge! and several storybook adaptations that are new to area audiences.

A diverse roster of guest artists, including returning favorites Djembe Fire! and Billy Jonas, rounds out this year’s offerings. Although the season begins at the end of September with Disney’s Aladdin, the Theatre has expanded its calendar by offering special event programming in August 2010 and a Tarradiddle Players production in June 2011.

Building on the success of past production Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the season opens with an original staging of Disney’s Aladdin, a theatrical magic carpet ride for the whole family. The beloved characters and Academy Award-winning songs from the hit animated film make this musical a dazzling journey of discovery and adventure.

For the holidays, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is delighted to bring back Scrooge!, Leslie Bricusse’s musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol. Last performed by the Theatre in 2003, this upbeat, richly detailed production tells a heart-warming story of redemption and forgiveness. The Tarradiddle Players celebrate the season of giving with The Littlest Angel, a charming family favorite.

The new year brings two fresh page-to-stage adaptations of popular picture books. Based on the award-winning book by South Carolina native Melinda Long, How I Became a Pirate is a fun family musical that offers high seas adventure for ages 5 and up. The Tarradiddle Players’ production of If You Take a Mouse to School is sure to please fans of Laura Numeroff’s wildly popular series.

And Then They Came for Me: Remembering the World of Anne Frank is a heart-wrenching look at the Holocaust through the eyes of young people who grew up during this period of history. The play weaves videotaped interviews with live acting to tell the stories of Anne Frank and Holocaust survivors Ed Silverberg and Eva Schloss.

Kevin Kling’s toe-tapping, finger-snapping adaptation of Lyle the Crocodile brings the world’s most loveable reptile to vibrant, joyful life onstage. Tomás and the Library Lady, performed by the Tarradiddle Players, tells the true story of Tomás Rivera, the child of migrant farm workers who became an award-winning novelist and nationally-recognized educator. This touching play celebrates the power of learning and the difference one person can make in the lives of others.

Children’s Theatre’s high school Ensemble Company presents a bold adaptation of modern classic Lord of the Flies in the Wachovia Playhouse, an offering especially for teen audiences. And the Tarradiddle Players finish their season in the Wachovia Playhouse with June performances of The Commedia Princess and the Pea, part of their repertoire of Commedia dell’arte favorites.

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte will not raise ticket prices for the 2010-11 season, and offers several ways for families to save on tickets. In addition to the Early Bird Discount (order by September 1 and save $1 per ticket), the Theatre offers a season-long program through which families can save $2 per ticket by ordering tickets for three or more productions at one time. In addition, tickets to select Friday night performances throughout the year will be half-price as part of the Target Family Time Series sponsored by Target. Tickets for the season will go on sale May 17.

Performances will be in the McColl Family Theatre or Wachovia Playhouse at ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center, 300 E. 7^th Street. For more information call the Box Office at 704-973-2828 (10 am to 5 pm, Mon.-Fri.). Details on all productions follow.

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 2010-2011 Season

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte presents

Disney’s Aladdin

Music by Alan Menken

Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice

Music Adapted, Arranged and Orchestrated by Bryan Louiselle

Book by Jim Luigs

Based on the 1992 Disney film “Aladdin”

Sept. 24-Oct. 24, 2010 • McColl Family Theatre

Front Orchestra $24 / General Section $18

Crown Experience

Join us for a theatrical magic carpet ride, as we kick off our 63^rd season with this exuberant family musical. In the heart of an enchanted city, poor but charming Aladdin meets free-spirited Princess Jasmine, whose royal status places her beyond his reach. His whole life changes with one rub of a lamp, as a fun-loving, fast-talking Genie appears and grants him three wishes. Beloved characters and Academy Award-winning songs like “A Whole New World” and “Friend Like Me” make Disney’s Aladdin an incredible journey of discovery and adventure.

For Ages 6+/Grades 1+ Best enjoyed by Elementary, Middle and High School ages

Scrooge!

By Leslie Bricusse

Based on “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens

Dec. 3-23, 2010 • McColl Family Theatre

Front Orchestra $24 / General Section $18

Crown Experience

With upbeat songs and unforgettable characters, this musical version of Dickens’ classic is a holiday treat for young and old alike. Miserly Ebenezer Scrooge’s “Bah!, Humbug!” opinion of Christmas grates on everyone around him. But when Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his former partner and three Christmas spirits, he realizes that he needs to change his curmudgeonly ways – just in time for Christmas Day!

For Ages 7+/Grades 2+ Best enjoyed by Elementary, Middle and High School ages

The Littlest Angel

Dramatized by Patricia Gray

Based on the story by Charles Tazewell

Dec. 3-23, 2010 • Wachovia Playhouse

Front Orchestra $18 / General Section $14

Tarradiddle Experience

“No swinging on the pearly gates.” “Don’t be late for the rehearsal of the Heavenly Choir.” The Littlest Angel has just arrived in Heaven and simply cannot adjust to all the new rules. When the Understanding Angel brings him a wooden box full of childhood treasures from his life on earth, he finally begins to feel a bit more at home. As the Littlest Angel gets used to life in Heaven, he changes his irresponsible ways, but it isn’t until he gives a heartfelt gift to the newborn child that he becomes truly angelic. This simple, charming story is a holiday favorite for families. Performed by the Tarradiddle Players.

For ages 3+/ Grades PreK+ Best enjoyed by Preschool and Early Elementary ages

How I Became a Pirate

A Musical by Alyn Cardarelli and Steve Goers

Based on the book by Melinda Long

Illustrated by David Shannon

Jan. 21-Feb. 6, 2011 • McColl Family Theatre

Front Orchestra $24 / General Section $18

Crown Experience

ARRR! Jump on board for a swashbuckling musical based on the hilarious and award-winning book by Carolina native Melinda Long. Young Jeremy Jacob joins Captain Braid Beard’s scurvy crew for some high seas adventure, but soon learns that the truly important things in life are worth much more than buried treasure. This fun family show is sure to leave you and your mateys singing and dancing in the aisles!

For Ages 5+/Grades K+ Best enjoyed by Elementary ages

If You Take a Mouse to School

Based on the book by Laura Numeroff

Illustrated by Felicia Bond

Adapted by Ernie Nolan

Feb. 4-20, 2011 • Wachovia Playhouse

Front Orchestra $18 / General Section $14

Tarradiddle Experience

In this rollicking romp, Laura Numeroff’s beloved Mouse protagonist heads into the classroom for a day of school like no other! Because if you take a Mouse to school, first he’ll ask you for your lunchbox - and then he’ll want to get his paws on everything, from spelling and math to a messy science experiment. Adapted from the wildly popular picture book, and full of physical comedy and visual delights, this production is a hilarious treat for young audiences. Performed by the Tarradiddle Players.

For ages 3+/ Grades PreK+ Best enjoyed by Preschool and Early Elementary ages

And Then They Came For Me: Remembering the World of Anne Frank

By James Still

Mar. 4-13, 2011 • Wachovia Playhouse

Front Orchestra $18 / General Section $14

Crown Experience

And Then They Came for Me is a unique theatrical experience that tells the real stories of Anne Frank and Holocaust survivors Ed Silverberg and Eva Schloss. The intersecting family histories of these three young people paint a vivid picture of life before and during World War II. Ed appears in Anne’s famous diary as her first boyfriend, while Eva and Anne were the same age and grew up in the same apartment building. Like the Franks, Eva and her family went into hiding and were eventually betrayed to the Nazis. Weaving videotaped interviews of Ed and Eva with scenes in which actors recreate their lives, And Then They Came for Me has been acclaimed by audiences and critics in productions across the United States.

For ages 10+/ Grades 6+ Best enjoyed by Middle and High School ages

Lyle the Crocodile

Based on the books by Bernard Waber

Adapted by Kevin Kling

Apr. 1-17, 2011 • McColl Family Theatre

Front Orchestra $24 / General Section $18

Crown Experience

When the Primm family moves into their new apartment, they are very surprised to find Lyle the Crocodile living in the bathtub. Lyle, however, is no ordinary crocodile. He eats only Turkish caviar, can play the saxophone and has impeccable manners. Mr. and Mrs. Primm and their son Joshua quickly learn to love Lyle, but will crotchety next-door neighbor Mr. Grumps insist on sending this new member of their family off to the zoo? With toe-tapping, finger-snapping tunes, this adaptation of the picture book classic brings the world’s most loveable reptile to vibrant, joyful life onstage.

For Ages 5+/Grades K+ Best enjoyed by Elementary ages

Tomás and the Library Lady

Based on the book by Pat Mora

Adapted for the stage by José Cruz González

Apr. 29-May 8, 2011 • Wachovia Playhouse

Front Orchestra $18 / General Section $14

Tarradiddle Experience

Tomás and his family travel north from their home in Texas for a summer of farm work. Tomás loves being with his parents and listening to his Papá Grande’s stories, but traveling around so much makes it hard to learn English and do well in school. He finds refuge at the local library, where a friendly librarian introduces him to the exciting world of books, and fosters a lifelong love of reading and learning. Adapted from Pat Mora’s book about Tomás Rivera, the child of migrant farm workers who became an award-winning novelist and nationally-recognized educator, this warm and touching play reminds us of the difference one person can make in the lives of others. Performed by the Tarradiddle Players.

For Ages 7+/Grades 2+ Best enjoyed by Elementary and Middle School ages

Lord of the Flies

Adapted for the stage by Nigel Williams

Based on the novel by William Golding

May 11-14, 2011 • Wachovia Playhouse

All seats $10

Young Adult Experience

A plane crashes on a deserted island, leaving a group of schoolboys behind as the only survivors. At first the stranded boys cooperate, selecting a leader and organizing food, shelter and a signal fire, but many find that they would rather swim, play and hunt the island’s population of wild pigs. Before long, the well-behaved group has turned into a bloodthirsty tribe. Exploring the boundary between human reason and animal instinct, William Golding’s classic is just as chilling and relevant today as when it was first published in 1954. Performed by our high school Ensemble Company.

For Ages 12+/Grades 7+ Best enjoyed by Middle and High School ages

The Commedia Princess and the Pea

By Lane Riosley and Rebecca L. Byars

June 17-26, 2011 • Wachovia Playhouse

Front Orchestra $18 / General Section $14

Tarradiddle Experience

How can you tell if someone is really, truly a princess? In this funny, fast-paced show, the Tarradiddle Players put a slapstick spin on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale. The lonely Prince wants to find someone to marry, but potential princesses must first get past his mother the Queen and her long list of tests. Will any of them be royal enough to turn a cartwheel, sing “Happy Birthday” while hopping up and down on one leg, and feel a teeny, tiny pea under a big stack of mattresses? With its roots in the humorous, physical acting style of Italian Commedia dell’arte, this production is pure fun.

For Ages 5+/Grades K+ Best enjoyed by Elementary School ages

2010-2011 Special Events

Salsa Cinderella
Written and performed by the Grey Seal Puppets

Aug. 21-22, 2010 • Wachovia Playhouse

Front Orchestra $14 • General Section $12

Visiting Artist Experience

Grey Seal Puppets brings their whimsical approach to storytelling and exquisite puppet design to Salsa Cinderella. This production takes a fresh look at the story of Cinderella, a classic tale of love and footwear retold with a spicy twist. With an original musical score by Charlotte composer John Alexander, Salsa Cinderella will have you fighting the urge to mambo in the aisles!

For ages 3+/ Grades PreK+ Best enjoyed by Preschool and Early Elementary ages

Teeny Tiny Tales

Tarradiddle Players Preschool Show

Compiled and performed by the Tarradiddle Players

Nov. 6-7, 2010 • Wachovia Playhouse

Front Orchestra $12 / General Section $10

Preschool Experience

Designed especially for preschoolers, Teeny Tiny Tales introduces children to the world of live theatre with an engaging, interactive experience. Young audiences will love watching nursery rhyme favorites, like “Little Miss Muffett” and “Hey Diddle Diddle” come to life, and will sing and dance along to songs like “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and “The Hokey Pokey.”

For Ages 3-5 Best enjoyed by Preschool ages

Billy Jonas

Nov. 20-21, 2010 • McColl Family Theatre

Front Orchestra $14 • General Section $12

Visiting Artist Experience

Back for his 11^th visit to the CTC stage is composer, songsmith, and multi-instrumentalist Billy Jonas. Billy performs his original songs, stories, and improvisations with voice, guitar, and “Industrial Re-percussion” – a collection of instruments he made from found, foraged, and recycled objects. The audience joins in with singing, dancing, and banging-a-long! Don’t miss a show that makes the body move, the heart open, and community spirit fill every corner of the theatre! Order early – this one will sell-out.

For Ages 5+/Grades K+ Best enjoyed by Elementary School ages

Djembe Fire! African Drum and Dance Ensemble

Feb. 25-26, 2011 • McColl Family Theatre

Front Orchestra $14 • General Section $12

Visiting Artist Experience

Feel your body move and your spirit soar as the master drummers and dancers of Djembe Fire! take you on a rhythmic journey across Africa. Authentic instruments, costumes, stories and songs come together in this unique performance that will delight young and old alike. Audiences join in the show, adding their energy to that of the talented performers and making each Djembe Fire! performance a truly unique experience.

For ages 3+/ Grades PreK+ Best enjoyed by Preschool, Elementary and Middle School ages

Under the Rainbow

Tarradiddle Players Preschool Show

Compiled and performed by the Tarradiddle Players

Mar. 26-27, 2011 • Wachovia Playhouse

Front Orchestra $12 / General Section $10

Preschool Experience

Under the Rainbow weaves together simple folktales, including “The Fisherman and His Wife,” “There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly” and “Bear Hunt,” into a fun and colorful performance. This introduction to live theatre for our youngest audiences emphasizes storytelling and audience participation.

For Ages 3-5 Best enjoyed by Preschool ages

Adam Lambert books Charlotte concert

"American Idol’s" Season 8 runner-up Adam Lambert will bring "The Glam Nation Tour" to The Fillmore Charlotte at uptown's N.C. Music Factory on Friday, July 2.

A Live Nation press release promises that his show will be "an audio and visual spectacular, both theatrical and atmospheric," with Lambert adding: "I hope the audience will be able to escape for a few hours and fall into a world full of glam, drama and excitement. And I would love everyone to come away with a new appreciation for the music on my album."

Lambert's debut album, "For Your Entertainment," has sold more than 600,000 copies since making bowing at No. 3 on the Billboard Top 200 chart in November. He is the first openly gay mainstream pop singer to release a CD on a major label in U.S.

Australian pop-rocker Orianthi and Allison Iraheta (who finished fourth during the same season of "Idol") will open the show.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 8, at LiveNation.com, the Fillmore/Uptown Box office, Ticketmaster, or by calling 800-745-3000.