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.

Fortunately for us, the weather has been cooperating for the month of January. I'm hoping you were able to get out on the town and enjoy some of my picks last weekend. 

Last Friday I made my way over to the Carriage House for the soulful vocals of Miss Beverly Moore — who by the way tore the house down! If you haven't experienced an evening at the Carriage House, you definitely want to check it out. As a matter of fact, mark your calendar for Friday, Jan. 20, for an exciting evening of Women Who Rock! 

If you haven't heard, Saturday evening, the Destiny Brother's Calvin Napper and Vincent Crenshaw made their first appearance at Fanz, the hot spot for the mature jazz lovers. This Winston-Salem-based band kept the crowd engaged during their warm-up session. Once they went live, it was standing room only. In case you missed out, I'll make sure to keep you posted when they are back in town. Oh, by the way, saxophonist Shableek will be at Fanz this Saturday evening — and you know ’Bleek will hold it down. Be sure to get there early for seating.

Tuesday night I had the opportunity to attend a private screening of the movie “Contraband”; you may want to check out the action-packed film this weekend. And don't forget “Joyful Noise,” starring Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton.

This coming Monday, Jan. 16, is "Give Back" day in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. If you are looking for ways to give back to the community, the Harvey B. Gantt Center always welcomes volunteers. Visit the Gantt Center's website for a listing of events being held throughout the day. The Levine Museum is also hosting a variety of events. Or you may want to celebrate with the McCrorey YMCA as they host the 18th Annual MLK Prayer Breakfast along with the many other events around town in remembrance of Dr. King's legacy. 

This weekend I'm planning to spend lots of time uptown, so check out my weekend picks:

FRIDAY
The Deltas of Charlotte Foundation presents the 2012 Legacy Film Showcase: The fundraising partner of the Charlotte Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. is rolling out its 9th annual short film extravaganza, featuring films written and directed by African American women. The event starts with a 6:30 p.m. reception followed by the 7:30 p.m. film showcase. This is a wonderful event that you don't want to miss! For tickets call 704-372-1000 or visit www.carolinatix.org. 

Location: Spirit Square (345 N. College St.)
Cost: $20

Time: Reception at 6:30 p.m. Film showcase starts at 7:30 pm 

SATURDAY
The Classic International Black Cinema Series presents "Anna Lucasta": The 1958 film, starring Eartha Kitt and Sammy Davis Jr., is based on a hit Broadway play. It tells the story of Anna (Kitt), a lascivious lady of the night, who is banished from the family home by her self-righteous father and then falls into a life of prostitution — and into the arms of streetwise sailor Danny Johnson (Davis). But after Anna shocks them all by finally finding true love with a well-heeled young suitor, her unforgiving father sets a vengeful plan in motion to remind his daughter of her sordid past and destroy her future forever. The event is hosted by founder and film curator Felix Curtis.

Location: Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture (551 S. Tryon)
Cost: Free with museum admission (must be 18 and up to attend)
Time: 2 p.m. 
More info: www.ganttcenter.org

SATURDAY EVENING
“The Amen Corner”: Written in 1961 by the incomparable James Baldwin, this play deals with a self-anointed Harlem store front preacher, Margaret Alexander, who is the leader of her flock and about to see her world crumble. Son David, her church organist, is set on following in the footsteps of his father, jazz musician Luke. When the errant husband and father comes home to die, Sister Margaret finds herself losing everything but coming to terms with her own true sense of faith. This three-act play will connect you to the soul of gospel music. It runs from Jan. 13-28.

Location: Duke Energy Theater at Spirit Square (345 N. College St.)
Cost:$17-$22
Time: 8 p.m.
More info: 704-372-1000 or www.carolinatix.org

SUNDAY
Legacy Concert with special guest Micah Stampley: This moving tribute of narration, music, and dance reflects on Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, which sparked a nationwide spirit of reflection and change. The evening's guests include Stellar Award-winning singer, songwriter and producer Micah Stampley, Blanche McAllister-Dykes and others. The Legacy Concert Choir will be conducted by William Cummings II, Cedric Meekins and Marcus Graham. All proceeds from the concert benefit the Elwood-Edna Foundation for Youth Health.

Location: Knight Theater (430 S. Tryon St.)
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $15-$45. VIP seats include a pre-concert reception.
For info: 704-372-1000 or www.carolinatix.org

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