The many facets of Robeson

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The many facets of Robeson

By Toni Baker-Tyson – August 26, 2011

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Toni Baker-Tyson

I'll try anything once. Last week I made it to Ikea’s crayfish buffet. I was excited to finally sample the small shellfish, which resembled small lobster treats. Although I was completely at a lost as to which end I should eat, my friend, Ty, gave me instructions. Before I knew it, I had almost eaten a whole bucket!

There was no shame to my game. I noticed folks around me eating several bucketsful. And yes, I did the ultimate no-no. I wrapped my dessert in a napkin and placed it in my purse. I was stuffed and had no room for sweets, and Ikea makes this darling little chocolate marshmallow cake, which I just love.

We had a great time, and I'll keep you posted for the surprise fall buffet.

We then headed over to the Park Road theater to see “Beats, Rhymes and Life: Travels of a Tribe Called Quest.” I hope you were able to see this superb documentary. Qtip, one of the best rapper/producers in the hip-hop industry, is a rare talent. Although my era ended with the Sugar Hill Gang and Curtis Blow (I'm old-school jazz), I found it to be a film worth seeing.

After the movie I found myself researching Qtip's work and listening to his music. I'm loving the old hit "Bonita Applebum."

I also checked out a private screening of the movie “50/50,” which deals with friendship and a cancer diagnosis. This film mixes comedy with a dramatic twist. Check it out when it opens September 30. Based on audience applause, I think you’ll like it.

Oh, yes, if you were at the Jill Scott concert the other night, I know you had a ball. Doug E. Fresh was great as the MC, and it was a party all night. Anthony Hamilton and his band were awesome, and Jill Scott fans packed the house and got just what they expected.

Although Hurricane Irene is in the forecast, I say let's get out and enjoy ourselves this weekend. Here are my picks:

FRIDAY
CD release party for The Ivan Hall Group. A new live recording will take place at the Sylvia Theater in York. For those new to Charlotte, The Ivan Hall Group was a jazz/R&B band that was hot here during the late 1990s and early 2000s. They have returned, and this is their opening event. If you would like to join me, feel free to come along and bring your friends. York is just west of Rock Hill, still in the Charlotte metro area .
Location: Sylvia Theater (27 N. Congress St., York, S.C., 29745)
Cost: $5.00
Time: Doors open at 8:30 p.m. Event begins at 9 p.m.
For more information: Call 803 684-5590 or http://sylviatheater.com/
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SATURDAY
Smooth jazz Saturday night with trumpeter Joey Sommerville. I keep getting text messages about jazz at Fanz. Folks are loving the venue. It's the ultimate place for the mature, and it's free! The crowd is nice, the food and drinks are reasonable, and the staff is accommodating. Get there early, because the mature crowd is huge. Hosted by Jazz Diva Tammy. (By the way, it's Tammy's birthday, so I know you will have a great time!) If you are new to the area, or if you don't know anyone, contact me. You are more than welcome to join me and make some new friends. You know the jazz crowd is a tight-knit group, and we welcome all.
Location: Fanz Sports Grill (Formerly Midtown Sundries) 3425 David Cox Blvd., off of Harris Boulevard.
Cost: Free
Time: 9 p.m. – 12 p.m
For more information: http://fanzsportsgrill.com/
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SUNDAY
Paul Robeson ~ This play is a powerful look at the many facets of Robeson the man, as well as Robeson the star. It chronicles his life from childhood in New Jersey to his adult life around the world. I don't know how many of you are familiar with the work of Quentin Talley, but I never miss an On Q Production.
Location: Duke Energy Theater, Spirit Square (345 N. College St)
Time: 3 p.m.
Cost: $17-$22
For more information: Call the box office at 704 336-4686, or visit CharlotteCultureGuide.com.

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Editor's Note: 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.

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