Good food, good music, good film

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Good food, good music, good film

By Toni Baker-Tyson – September 8, 2011

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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.

It's nice to be back after some much-needed rest.

Let me extend a special thank-you to Glenn for doing such a wonderful job in my absence, although I'm hoping he's able to leave the couch just a tad bit more in the future.

Last week I attended a private screening of actor Nick Nolte's new movie, “The Warrior.” This movie looks into the world behind the sport of kicking-boxing. What I loved was how it showed an intense family relationship move from being severely broken to reparation. I was extremely emotional and vocal during the movie, along with many in the audience. Trust me; this should be movie of the year. Check it out this opening weekend and give me your feedback.

Although I had tickets to see Frankie Beverly and friends, I decided to give them away. Yes, I gave them away! One of Charlotte's well-known jazz musicians, Shableek, was appearing at the venue known as the Wine Up. I'm passionate about supporting our local artists, and Shableek, as usual, gave us a wonderful show. If you missed out, he will be appearing the weekend of Sept. 16 at Fanz.

I did try something different this past week. I went to a shooting range on Monroe Rd. Rumor has it Annie Oakley had nothing on me. I was an excellent student, and my instructor, Frank, called me a "natural." Tuesday is 1/2 price for ladies. I plan to host a meet-up there for ladies and will keep you posted.

Finally, I was able to squeeze in the play “Paul Robeson,” directed by Quentin Talley. During intermission I had a discussion with two friends, Lena and Sharlata, about all the things we didn't know about Robeson's story. His struggles and heartache moved us deeply. Actor Jason S. McKiney did a wonderful job as Robeson, as did Ron Taylor as Lawrence Brown. Folks, if you don't do anything else these next few days, you ought to see this play.

Another weekend is here. The kids are settled back in school, and it's time for you to relax. So if you haven't made plans, check out my weekend picks:

FRIDAY
Yiasou 2011 Greek Festival ~ The 34th year! This is one of my favorite fall events. Can you say Baklava? Music, live performances and great food. Bring an empty stomach and expect a large crowd. Also, expect some traffic congestion.
Location: 300 East Blvd
Cost: $2; children under 12 free
Time: Friday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Festival runs Thursday through Sunday)
For more information: http://www.yiasoufestival.org/files/pressrelease.pdf
***

SATURDAY
Smooth jazz with Adrian Crutchfield and Innertwyned. I have been boasting to friends about this young dynamo. Adrian will leave you spinning in your seat. Although he is usually on the road with the big dogs, I saw him play at the Jill Scott concert and again last week at Bull and Barrister. I'm hoping they perform my favorite song, "You Can't Hide Love" (wink, wink). Get there early. This is jazz for the mature crowd.
Location: Fanz Sports Grill (Formerly Midtown Sundries, 3425 David Cox Blvd.)
Cost: Free
Time: 9 p.m. – 12 p.m.
http://fanzsportsgrill.com/
***

SUNDAY
Princess Tam Tam ~ The final movie in the summer film series featuring the legendary Josephine Baker. A French novelist, disgusted by his wife's society friends, goes to North Africa for a respite. There he encounters a vivacious and talented Bedouin girl living in poverty. To spite his wife who is romancing a Maharajah, he decides to train and educate the girl and present her to Parisian society as the Princes Tam Tam. The last three films were standing room only. Special thanks to Mr. Felix for providing us with this series.
Location: Harvey B. Gantt Center (551 S. Tryon St)
Time: 2 p.m.
Cost: Free with museum admission. Recommended for ages 18 and over.
For more information, visit CharlotteCultueGuide.com.

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