Toni Baker-Tyson describes herself as a social butterfly and writes about the Qcity's grown-folks nightlife. Her entertainment picks are published each Thursday. Opinions expressed are solely her own. Email her at toni@qcitymetro.com.

If you haven't heard by now, CNN anchor and special correspondent Soledad O'Brien appeared at UNC Charlotte last week. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to attend this divine event. The room was completely quiet as O'Brien captivated the audience with stories about her family and life as a journalist. The black, Cuban, Australian and Irish mother of four (who said she reads to her daughter every night no matter what her assignment) spoke candidly about having a passion for what you do. She also spoke on the importance of having a supportive spouse, who has your same passion and wants nothing but the best for you. Her vibrant, pulsating personality kept me engaged for the entire evening. Kudos to UNC Charlotte for hosting such a memorable evening. By the way, if you were not able to attend, you can catch O'Brien for more conversations in early 2012 as she returns to American Morning.

Check out my weekend picks:

FRIDAY

An evening with flutist Alexander Zonjic and special guest keyboardist Jeff Lorber. Like many of you, I'm a huge jazz fan. This is a special evening you don't want to miss. There is a lot taking place this Friday in uptown, so get there early. The CPCC box office still has tickets available. FYI: Pease Auditorium is a small venue, so there isn't a bad seat in the house.

Location: CPCC Main Campus Pease Auditorium, 1201 Elizabeth Ave.
Cost: General admission $30
Time: 8 p.m. 
Additional information: http://tix.cpcc.edu/events/zonjic_lorber or call 704-330-6534

SATURDAY

North Carolina Dance Theatre — Patricia McBride & Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux Center for Dance presents Innovative Works. Come out and experience an up-close-and-personal viewing of choreographed works by Mark Diamond, David Ingram, Sasha Janes, and Dwight Rhoden in the NC Dance Theatre’s new intimate venue. Tickets are still available for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

Location: NC Dance Theatre, 701 N. Tryon Street
Cost: $25-$45
Time: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening
Additional information: http://www.ncdance.org/InnovativeWorks.asp or call 704-372-1000

SUNDAY

2011 Charlotte International Auto Show. Come out and see the latest high-tech automobiles. More than 400 vehicles will be on display. It’s weekend fun for the whole family from Thursday until Sunday.

Location: Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St.
Time: Thursday-Friday, noon-9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Cost: $8; children 12 and under free
For additional information: http://www.charlotteautoshow.com

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