Greensboro Daily Photo

Carolina Theatre Romeo & Juliet

Last night was a very special night. Artistic Motion School of Arts and Triad International Ballet presented Romeo and Juliet at the Carolina Theatre. The choreography was staged and adapted by Natalya Davidson and Heather Prokhnitski, both accomplished teachers who bring a wealth of expertise to the dance community in Greensboro. The above photo features the lobby of the Carolina Theatre after the final performance of the ballet. A mix of dancers, their families, and fans can be seen in the photo.

Husband and wife team Karina (Juliet) and Grigor Zakyan (Romeo) were perfect in the leading roles. Both have strong connections to Artistic Motion in Greensboro and the Armenian Theatre of Opera and Ballet in Yerevan. This organization dates to the early 20th century and has a long tradition of quality performing arts with links to the Soviet Armenian heritage and the Republic of Armenia- an independent country since 1991. Greensboro can be proud of having such high caliber ballet in the community. In Romeo and Juliet, there were guest artists from the National Ballet of Armenia, Richmond Ballet, the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and Artistic Motion. Not going unnoticed were all of the village kids, children who are growing up with a strong foundation in the performing arts. Indeed, the hashtag Together we can #BeExtraordinary was achieved.

Happy Friday!

Westerwood String Band

Yesterday, we featured the Westerwood Chili Cook-off on Greensboro Daily Photo. The annual event was held in Lake Daniel Park near Benjamin Parkway. Today's photo is of the Westerwood String Band that played at the event. Carol Thompson, who is dancing in the above photo, has been coordinating music for the chili cook off  for years. The group  sometimes practices at a member's house and at other times at open jams. One place you are likely to see these band members is the jam organized by the Piedmont Old-Time Society, currently meeting the first and third Thursday evening at the Continental Club.

The band's genre is old-time, or string band, music which has been played in North Carolina since the Scots-Irish settled here. True to old-time music, there are fiddles, banjos, guitars, and an upright (double) bass, all acoustic instruments. You may recognize Carol as she is frequently seen dancing, down front and off to the side, at events like the North Carolina Folk Festival- when old-time musicians are performing. The boards with cornmeal help with movement and obtaining a percussive sound. Sunday was a lovely day for the event and the music added a yet another layer of liveliness to the already upbeat, community-building event. We're wondering where the Westerwood String Band will play next.

Happy Wednesday! 

Saturday Night 1: Music Pop Up

This week on GDP, all photos feature a scene from Downtown Greensboro on Saturday night. This will give you an idea of the fun that can be had downtown on the weekends. We'll start with the music pop up outside the Greensboro Project Space at 111 East February 1 Place. It is a UNCG Student exhibition Center. Many art shows and events are held inside this small (almost) underground area consisting of three rooms. The music was happening while Reconsidered Goods was holding an event inside the project space. We'll feature that event tomorrow.

For now, it is noteworthy how diverse the group is. From rappers to a young woman training her Corgi, young and old alike were enjoying the music. The event space was standing room only and the project maker members needed to be able to hear themselves. The cooler, dry fall weather (around 60ºF),  made standing around outside enjoyable. The location of the music seem like an anteroom or prelude to all of the dynamic making going on inside. Keep watching for more fun on Elm Street on Saturday night!

Happy Monday!

Ballet Folklorico at Art in the Arboretum

The Art in the Arboretum this past Sunday was nothing short of spectacular. It was the perfect combination of arts and crafts, music, and dancing. Also adding to the event was the fact that some of the flowers and foliage were very showy in their beauty, and the weather was spectacular. Fifty artists were selected to sell their crafts and there were three stages of entertainment, and entertainment was free. Greensboro Beautiful partners with the City of Greensboro to enhance the beauty of our community. Mebane Ham coordinated the event. A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill, Mebane Ham is an independent public relations and communications professional. Fiddle and Bow, founded in 1981, sponsored and staffed one of the stages. 

The above photo features one group of performers from the Ballet Folklorico Mexican Tradition of Julio Ruiz. Their goal is to bring greater awareness and understanding of the Latino culture, especially in Greensboro. The audience, young and old alike, was mesmerized by their dancing. The clothing was beautiful and the way they moved skirts and bandanas in sync. This stage, for international music and dance, is a permanent structure in the arboretum- just waiting to be used for other special events.  Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 6, 2024 if you want to be part of this event next year

Happy Tuesday!

North Carolina Folk Festival 2023

Today is the day. Folks, the North Carolina Folk Festival is a really big deal. We wanted to advertise it one more day so that you get out and celebrate these musicians in town. The above photo is of City Stage, which is located between Davie and Church Street. Here is a map of the entire venue footprint: LeBauer Park, Lawn Stage, Center City Jams, Van Dyke Stage, and Old Courthouse Stage- with food trucks and craft vendors in between. That is a very reasonable distance between stages to get from one event to the other.

The music will be great whether you are attending during the day or at night. The last events start at 9:30 tonight. Saturday proves to be fun. Mark Dillon will lead the Honky Tonk Jam and María Gonzales will lead the Latin Dance Social. We love seeing how Greensboro comes together to support this monumental undertaking. Look at the above crowd. Indeed, they were having fun.

Happy Friday!

Randy Condor Williams

Randy Condor Williams is a talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist currently living in Greensboro. On his website, he shares with fans that he was raised "near one of the world's largest military installations during the height of the drug war", but doesn't tell us where.  His writing is soulful, intellectual and a bit subversive. He has a solo album entitled "Bonnie Doone."

We first heard Randy at the Corner Farmers Market this past Saturday morning. We hope to have an opportunity to hear him again at upcoming markets. If you notice, he is wearing a Folk Festival t-shirt. We're pretty sure he will be around the NC Folk Festival 2023, which starts tomorrow. Greensboro has a lot of talented musicians and it is important to show them support. Attending and clapping go a long way in inspiring  musicians to keep going. We will have plenty of great musicians to support this weekend. The NC Folk Festival, downtown, is free; leaving some extra funds to toss in buckets of performers. See the lineup of performers HERE.

Happy Thursday.

North Carolina Folk Festival 2023

Once Labor Day is over, mentally we transition to fall, a lovely season in Greensboro. We also know it is time for the North Carolina Folk Festival. The festival kicks off on Wednesday evening with a special concert, "Songs of Hope and Justice"  at 7:30 pm at The Carolina Theatre. Singer-songwriter Laurelyn Dossett will host an accomplished group of folk musicians. The next events will be on Friday evening, beginning at 5:00 pm (see complete schedule HERE). The music is as varied and diverse as the people of Greensboro; indeed, there is something for all tastes of fold music. It is a good opportunity to listen to and learn about new genres of music. 

The above photo features Larry Bellorín. He will perform this year with Joe Troop. They describe their music as Venezuelan Appalachian Fusion.  Larry is a legend of llanera music. Joe is a Grammy-nominated bluegrass and old-time musician. Together, the sound of these singer-songwriting multi-instrumentalists is unique and incredible. They are performing twice, on Friday at 9:00 pm and Sunday at 3:30 pm. Larry and Joe both live in North Carolina; so, when you fall in love with their music, you will have opportunities to hear them again. Our North Carolina Folk Festival is so special, the event is well organized, the footprint from stages to food trucks to arts and crafts exhibits (to port-a-potties)  is always well planned.

From 2015-2017, the National Folk Festival was in Greensboro, giving our community the chance to learn from the best how to put on a music festival. When the National Folk Festival transitioned to the next city to help learn the ropes, Greensboro's event converted to the North Carolina Folk Festival We owe it to the performers to show them that our city supports the performing arts. Please encourage your folk music loving friends far and wide to come to Greensboro from the 8th-10th. Hope to see you there, too. The Friday-Sunday performances are FREE. People are encouraged to donate if they are able. Bring your change and bills. There will also be ways to donate through cash apps.

Happy Tuesday!

Jayne Butler, Librarian and Actor

Today, we're featuring library assistant extraordinaire, Jayne Butler, who works at the Kathleen Clay Edwards Family Branch of the Greensboro City Library. Yesterday, we were having technical difficulties with an online library account and Jayne took about an hour helping us get everything sorted out. She has to be the most patient person on earth. Jayne, originally from New Jersey, moved to North Carolina to attend North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NCAT). She graduated  in 1998 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Professional Theatre (Acting). Among her many roles, she performed in the Lion King for the National Broadway Tour.  Also, she performed in Florida in Walt Disney Resort's Festival of the Lion King. In 2022, she was invited by NCAT to be the featured lead in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom.

Jayne, whose stage name is Jayne Trinette, sings, acts, dances, and does it all.*  She is the kind of person who can have that booming stage presence and three octave  voice,  like she needed as Ma Rainey, yet she can be soft spoken and gentle when helping someone in the library. We asked Jayne how she developed so much patience and she said, "Rejection. In acting, you have to be patient and know your day will come."   While COVID created a bump in the road, let's hope Jayne's next big role is around the corner, and that every librarian brings to the job Jayne's patience and enthusiasm.

Happy Wednesday!

 

*Follow Jayne on Instagram @ jaynesings

Banjo Earth

Last night Banjo Earth was the featured act at MUSEP. The MUSEP concert was held in Keeley Park off of Rankin Mill Road in East Greensboro. It is a lovely venue and the musicianship  was tremendous. Unfortunately, the concert wasn't very well attended. It was such a great opportunity and excuse to explore Keeley Park. See here where we featured Keeley Park in July. It is conveniently located just off the I-840 and 785 bypass.

According to the website of lead singer Andy Eversole, Banjo Earth is a music and video project. Andy travels the earth sharing his music and learning the past and present music of the cultures in which he is immersed. Andy is an Americana, bluegrass, experimental, folk artist from Greensboro. As a band, Banjo Earth is committed to peacemaking. Next up is a journey to Mexico. Hopefully, post-Mexico,  when the group regroups in Greensboro, they will perform for us again. In the meantime, see their past adventures here. We are so lucky to have access to an array of great live music in Greensboro. Next week's free MUSEP concert will be in Barber Park.

Happy Monday!

MUSEP Concert- Orquesta Internacional La Clave

The Music on Sunday Evening in the Park (MUSEP) concert last night was supposed to have been at Lindley Park, but rain intervened. Fortunately, the program was moved inside to the Van Dyke Performance Space at the Cultural Arts Center on Davie Street. The group that performed was the Orquesta Internacional La Clave and, as you can see from the above photo, people were having a great time dancing. Orquesta Internacional La Clave played lovely salsa music and people were dancing up a storm. Unfortunately, the change in venue impacted attendance significantly.

This is the 44th year for MUSEP. Three concerts remain in this season. Hopefully, you will be able to attend them. We learned last night that, on average, the concerts cost $3,500 each. While entrance is free, contributions are always greatly appreciated.

Happy Monday!

Madelyn Greco

The above photo is of local body painting artist Madelyn Greco. She and Scott Fray are Living Brush Bodypainting. They are world champion body painting artists. Madelyn is so talented, people seek her services far and wide. While she lives in Reidsville, NC, she is frequently in Greensboro and can always be counted on to help with the Summer Solstice event. When we caught up with her at Summer Solstice 2023, she had been busily painting the faces of volunteers. She also marched in one of the parades. Her Facebook quote states:  "Art is the joy of my life, Joy is the life of my art, Life is the art of my joy." She is Co-owner of Chameleon Colors USA and Competition Director at Jan Tana Bodypainting Revolution. 

No matter where you are in the world, if you see a body painting event and you ask if they know Madelyn Greco, rest assured, they will. Madelyn is another fine example of the many talented people we have in the Greensboro area.

Triad Stage, Gone But Not Forgotten

By now, you likely know that Triad Stage at 232 South Elm Street has closed. For twenty seasons they brought amazing plays to Greensboro, including some world premieres. The official closing date was June 20, 2023.  It was often said that this was one of the best theaters in North Carolina. They had staged over 140 productions. They brought live, professional theatre to town and helped with the regentrification of downtown Greensboro. Originally, the building was a Montgomery Ward store and it remained vacant for nearly 40 years before renovations began for Triad Stage. 

Greensboro now has the wonderful Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. However, that venue seats 3,000 and books Broadway Plays and national shows. Triad Stage seated 300. That makes Tanger ten times larger. And while this is a wonderful resource for Greensboro, where can the smaller, local shows be performed? This niche venue is irreplaceable. Hopefully another group can come in and open a theatre in this space.

For more details, see this Fox 8 article here.

Happy Friday! While it isn't First Friday, weekends are always a great time to head downtown.

Bryan Bielanski, Played at Common Grounds Last Night.

Last night, acoustic-rock, singer-songwriter Bryan Bielanski performed at Common Grounds Coffee Shop in Lindley Park. Bryan is from Charlotte, North Carolina, but has been on tour for the last nine years;  so, chances are you are more likely to find him elsewhere than at at home. His list of places where he has performed can just about fill a page. He has performed all over the world, on several continents and throughout the United States. Bryan's music is upbeat and many of his original songs have references to pop culture. Three of his original songs, early in last night's set, were "I'm your Super Mario,"  "Star Wars Marathon," and "Elf Girlfriend."  As we sat there watching and listening to Bryan, we couldn't help but notice that he resembles Leonardo DiCaprio who is in the painting behind Bryan, sipping and listening.

After playing at Common Grounds at 7:00 pm, Bryan was headed to Chapel Hill to perform. Today, he will be in Wilmington, DE. We're so glad the we serendipitously happened to be at Common Grounds when Bryan  arrived. Summers are like that is Greensboro. You just never know when you are going to get to hear some really great, live music- and often for free.

If you are headed out somewhere tonight, tip your musicians, your baristas, and anyone else who serves and entertains. Can you believe Common Grounds at 602 South Elam Avenue has been open for ten years now? Something about a coffee shop makes a neighborhood feel like home. Something a about live music makes an evening memorable.

Happy Thursday!

Dunleath Porchfest 2023

Today is porchfest in the Dunleath neighborhood of Greensboro. Located just north of the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market and Yanceyville Street, Dunleath is a cohesive neighborhood. They have activities and events that evoke that feeling of the neighborhoods of yesteryear. Big front porches and generous sidewalks help bring people together. This is the kind of neighborhood where everyone knows each other's names, interests, and needs. Recently, on May 6th, they held a neighborhood yard sale. On August 1st, neighbors will come together to celebrate national night out.

Today, from 11:00 am - 6:00 pm, you will hear performances with a festival-like feel. And, best of all, the event is free and open to the public. Music in Sternberger Park  will conclude the event. Neighbors open their porches to musicians, who offer their talent for the event. Every street becomes a venue. Organizers try to space the bands out so that they don't ending interfering with the music of other groups. Also, hosting houses only have one concert, giving guests the opportunity to roam the neighbors and see more of the architecture and landscaping. Performances last 45 minutes. Porch hosts will have maps to distribute to guests. While the event is free, musicians appreciate tips in their tip jar. There is a lot of expense that comes with performing.

This photo was from last year, on Cypress Street just as a performance had finished, we seem to recall. Hope to see you there!

Happy Saturday!

Bruce Molsky performs Presbyterian Church of the Covenant

The Presbyterian Church of the Covenant is located at 501 South Mendenhall Street. Designed by Greensboro Architect. Harry Barton, the Church of the Covenant was built in 1914 to replace a church that was built in 1906. Have you ever noticed that it has symmetrical facades on Walker Avenue and Mendenhall Street? The above photo features the sanctuary. It is built on the corner of the lot and the shape actually adds to the acoustics of the space. The above photo was taken from the balcony this past Friday when Bruce Molsky was performing.

Bruce teaches in the American Roots Program at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and he is one talented musician. He plays guitar, banjo, and fiddle. His playing style is influenced by Tommy Jarrell. When Bruce plays the fiddle and sings at the same time, it is hard to distinguish sometimes if he is singing or if the violin is playing a drone note. Bruce is very personable and had just the right amount of telling the back story to a tune or song and playing. Bruce also held a fiddle and banjo workshop on Saturday, in the above photo. If you ever get a chance to pray, meditate, or hear a concert in the Church of the Covenant, you should take advantage of it. You would be in for a treat.

Happy Sunday!

Better Together!

Last night, Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley, Guilford County Schools,  launched the "Better Together" initiative.The eventt was held at the Tanger Center for the Performing Arts from 5:30- 6:30. Dr. Whitney shared the district's journey starting in the mid 1980s when decisions were being made about merging the three local school systems into one. This change happened in 1991, making Guilford County Schools the third largest in North Carolina. No longer were there three different pay scales or competition for funding.

The "Better Together" theme permeated the evening-  from ushers chosen from the Middle College at UNCG and the A&T Four Middle College, to two emcees (Leah Carper, Northern High Teacher and Paul Travers Washington Montessori Principal) to combined groups performing. In the above photo, the Bluford-Peeler choir is performing. Remember in 2018, a tornado destroyed the Peeler Performing Arts School and those students began attending Bluford, a STEM school. Now both schools are enjoying both themes, as a STEAM school. The above Bluford-Peeler choir sang "Better in Unity" receiving a standing ovation.

Dr. Oakley is working very hard to involve the community in the Better Together Strategic Direction, holding over 200 meetings to involve as many stakeholders as possible. And that involvement doesn't end with the initiative. If you are interested in volunteering or have ideas, the district would love to hear from you.

Happy Wednesday!

O. Henry Live Jazz Tomorrow Night

Tomorrow night is Live Jazz Night at O. Henry Hotel from 6-9pm.  Since 2015, this event has been a weekly occurrence on Thursday nights. You can listen to music while having a drink and small tea-time style foods to nibble. The core musicians for O. Henry Live Jazz  are Dave Fox, Neill Clegg, and Matt Kendrick.*  Their repertoire includes sounds from the 1950s and 1960s- especially swing, and Brazilian jazz. Now that it is getting warmer and staying light longer, the mood is really lively.

Every week the trio of jazz instrumentalists invites a singer to join them. This past week the audience was fortunate to get to listen to Jessica Mashburn. Jessica works full time as a musician. You will see her everywhere from Furniture Market in High Point to community events in downtown Greensboro. If your organization needs a musician who can work in just about any genre, encourage them to hire Jessica. Jessica is very good at entertaining along with singing. And, as you can tell from the above photo, she always dresses the part from head to toe. And, she makes hats if you ever need one. The above yellow hat is amazing, as is Jessica and the jazz trio. Head to the social lobby tomorrow night from 6-9pm. Jazz vocalist Lori Williams will be there to delight audiences.

 

*More HERE.

Temptations "Ain't Too Proud" Show at Tanger Center for the Performing Arts

Today's photo features a truck at the Tanger Center this past weekend, one of two used for loading in the "Ain't Too Proud" show about the Temptations and the Four Tops. Just as we stepped back to take a photo, a group of theatre-goers walked by. We took several more photos, but this one was the best; an action shot, showing movement in front of the "Classic 5" lineup of the Temptations:  Eddie Kendricks, Paul Williams, David Ruffin, Melvin Franklin, and Otis Williams. The people in the foreground are a little Abbey Road-esque. The music and show about the Temptations were fabulous. The Tanger is a fabulous venue, too. 

The weather in Greensboro has been sunny, but cold over the last few days. The lows have been in the 20s and the highs somewhere in the 50s. It is officially spring now. We hope you have a happy Tuesday and, if you haven't been to the Tanger yet, we hope you have an opportunity to get there soon.

 

The Mavericks

Greensboro is becoming quite a town of live performances. Between the Tanger Center, White Oak Amphitheatre, the Coliseum, Community Theatre of Greensboro, Triad Stage, The Carolina Theatre, the local universities, and the smaller venues, Greensboro is becoming quite a town of live performances.

The above photo features The Mavericks, playing at The Carolina Theatre this past weekend. They are an American country music band from Miami, Florida, playing together since 1989. In the center is Raul Malo, lead vocalist and guitar player. The night they played in Greensboro, there were 9 musicians on stage. During the concert, audience members were actually invited into the orchestra pit to dance. That added an upbeat energy that permeated the whole show. You can see part of that crowd at the front of the stage.

The Carolina Theatre has been in the news lately, as the exterior is getting work done to help restore and preserve it. When built in 1927, it was the crown jewel of the south. It has had ups and downs over the years, with the interior now restored beautifully. The night The Mavericks played, we sat next a couple that had driven from Bristol, TN (about 3 hours) to see the show and commented on its beauty. Ever at the helm of helping with the renovation of The Carolina Theatre, Betty Cone,Honorary Chairman of the Board, is again working hard to secure funding for the exterior of the building. If you haven't been to a movie or show there recently, you should purchase a ticket to something. Both the Betty and Ben Cone, Jr. Auditorium (to named in 2018) or the Crown upstairs, The Carolina Theatre is a very special venue. If you want to donate and be part of the restoration effort, see HERE.

Happy Thursday!

 

Seth Walker: Singer-songwriter and Visual Artist

Seth Walker opened for the Mavericks this past Saturday night (2/18/23) at The Carolina Theatre. Seth, who attended New Garden Friends School in Greensboro, grew up in a musical family. His dad, Scott Walker was the orchestra teacher at Greensboro Day School.  Summers, his dad hosts a fiddle camp, aptly named the "Walker Family Band Fiddle Camp. Growing up in a musical family, he comes by his musical talent honestly.

Seth is a guitarist, and blues and jazz singer, within the Americana genre. Also a prolific singer-songwriter,  Seth has released 10 albums, and tours extensively. In addition to being an accomplished performance artist, he is also a visual artist (see his CDs and visual art  HERE). While he now calls nearby Asheville home, it was nice seeing him back in Greensboro playing. Since Seth has co-written songs with members of  The Mavericks, his music fit perfectly with theirs. The above photo was taken in the lobby of The Carolina Theatre, where we caught up with Seth spending time with old friends and fans. Our visit to The Carolina Theatre was timely as Nancy McLaughlin's article about renovation efforts at the theatre is just out in the News & Record.

 

Happy President's Day, always the third Monday of February!

This CommUnity Sings

Yesterday afternoon the "This CommUnity Sings" event was held at The Carolina Theatre. It was a free event of singing with planned audience participation. Everything about the event was perfect from the venue , to the musical team, to the songs chosen for Music Director Brittany Kaehler to teach the audience- "Under the Sea", "Bridge Over Troubled Water", and "Mamma Mia".  

The above photo is of Red Kalyna, a Ukrainian group singing "Chervona Ruta" at the beginning of the program. "Chervona Ruta" is a popular Ukrainian folk song, widely sung in Eastern Europe. The lyrics tell of a mythical flower that brings happiness in love to a young girl who happens to find one of the flowers blooming red- something that, according to legend, only happens on the eve of summer solstice . Featured from left to right, members of the group, Peggy Boswell, Iryna Tkachenko, David Thompson, and Larry Vellani. We hope more community singing events are scheduled. "CommUnity Sings" was a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all who participated, making this event possible- especially the sponsors!

Happy Monday!

Vanity Tag: 1VIOLIN

Today, we have a little fun with a vanity tag. In the state of North Carolina, a vanity tag, or personalized plate, costs $30 above the other fees. It is really fun to see what people put on their vehicle tags. They say if people can't figure out the message in a few seconds, it just might not be a good investment. You have up to a combination of eight letters, numbers, spaces, and special characters to get your message across. We're betting the above person plays the violin, and plays it well. Likely, they tote it in their hatchback and, with a four-wheel drive, may do some mountain driving. We're betting they are passionate about music.

Here is a link to the DMV.  You should be able to search and see if the name or saying you want is available. Be careful though. If it is not an official site (and it may LOOK official),  you will be taken to an outside site that is probably not secure. Do you have a vanity tag? What does it say? Would you consider one? What would it say? Honk if you like violin music!

Happy Tuesday!

Piedmont Old Time Society Thursday Jam at The Continental Club

The Continental Club, located at 816 South Elm Street bills itself as "a cool, international social club, for disruptors and innovators." It is located in the building that years ago housed The Farmers' Exchange Store, a precursor to Southern States, where farmers would go to get grain, fertilizer, and other needs for farming. It is the white building on the southwest corner of Elm Street and Gate City Boulevard, the one with DAILY BREAD FLOUR on the back. 

Last night, The Continental Club hosted the open jam of the Piedmont Old Time Society (POTS), where acoustic fiddle and banjo music reigns supreme. POTS had previously held their jams at the Green Bean, but once that venue was no longer available, the group was on hiatus. When they learned the Continental Club would host the jam, they had eighteen people on the first night, playing well into the night. The lighting is absolutely beautiful at the Continental Club once your eyes adjust. However, it is a challenge to get crisp, color-balanced photos. The music sounded great last night. Hopefully, the Continental Club/Piedmont Old Time Society relationship will continue for a very long time and they will have all of their first and third Thursday jams there. The club is currently hosting an art exhibit by Trina Olson; the owner seems very supportive of visual and performing arts.

Happy Friday! May you find lots of great things to do in Greensboro this weekend.

Cats at Tanger Center for the Performing Arts

The Broadway musical Cats has come and gone from Greensboro, where it was performed at the Tanger Center this past week. The above photo shows the junkyard set where the cats gathered at night. The singing, dancing, and performing were superb. The performance was especially fun to watch if you knew the cats' personalities or if you were sitting next to someone who was a Cats fanatic. It also helps with appreciating the play to have read T.S. Elliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats"  In his poem "Three Different Names", you learn that cats have familial names, particular names, and secretive names.* It helps to have some of those names and personalities memorized when seeing the play.

The London production of Cats ran for 21 years and the New York production for 18. When a play is that popular, wins many awards, and keeps attracting crowds for nearly two decades it becomes part of our cultural lore. If you missed Cats in Greensboro, its next stop is DPAC in Durham; so, you still have a chance to see it locally. The next play up at Tanger Center is The Book of Mormon on 2/21-26. If you want ticket to that play, they are going fast. Head to the box-office at 300 North Elm Street and treat yourself to one.

Happy Monday!

 

* reference and read more HERE.

Jazz Music at the O. Henry Hotel

Thursday, Jazz Night at the O. Henry Hotel is something we should all experience- regularly. If you like jazz music in an Old World, European atmosphere, this event is perfect. You can order tapas, specialty drinks, wine, and beer- or not. The music is so transporting and the staff does a great job of getting people served. This is the way hotel lobbies are meant to be; full of people out to see, and maybe be seen. O. Henry would have approves. In the above photo, Dave Fox is featured on piano, Neill Clegg on flute and saxophone, and Matt Kendrick on double bass. They are regulars at this event, which has been a Greensboro staple since 2015. The singer last night was Holly Hopkins. Holly has performed from Hickory, NC to NYC. We were glad to see her back at Jazz Night..

Last night was cold outside, but warm and cozy inside. Adding to the charm, men were wearing jackets and sweaters, mostly without ties. Women were in long sweaters and slacks; casual and sleek. While the crowd had many older patrons, some younger jazz aficionados were there, too. There were three birthdays; Holly and the band sang and played for them. Jazz night is a lovely way to spend a Thursday evening. Perhaps there is some truth to the saying, Thursday is the new Friday.

Happy Friday!

Gary Woodard: One Man Band

Gary Woodard is such a great entertainer. He has a soothing, perfect-pitch voice and plays guitar and keyboards flawlessly. He bills himself as "one man band", and it is easy to understand why. .  He is known for creating atmosphere when he sings and plays; having that right balance between being heard, but not overpowering. On Sunday, when he played "My Girl" by The Temptations at the Antique Market Place, women approached his mini-stage with their shopping carts full of treasures. He sang  "Can't Help Falling in Love with You",  so well, you would have thought it was Elvis himself singing. Mr. Woodard's  playlist is of songs that aren't too fast, but don't drag on; the perfect tempo for eating or shopping. And you can be sure, when he performs, he is dressed elegantly. He looks fabulous surrounded by the Christmas decorations at Antique Market Place.

Mr. Woodard is from Wilson, North Carolina and he started playing guitar when he was six.* You can find him on Facebook, Youtube, and Instagram. Frequently, he plays at Simply Sonya's in Winston Salem on Friday nights.  We hope to hear him again in Greensboro soon!

Happy Wednesday!

* Read more in this Yes! Weekly Article.

Christmas Tree Time

This past weekend, the Christmas tree lots in and around Greensboro were busy, busy, busy. The Christmas tree lot at Sunnyside Farms in Summerfield is so photogenic. The tree lot to the left is on the property of the Greensboro Performing Arts at 7200 Summerfield Road. The building was formerly a church, but has been repurposed as a performing arts center. There is the main building in front and a second building directly behind it. They offer classes for children, teens, and adults. 

In the parking lot is a coffee shop. Families can dance and after class, get coffee and hot chocolate from the Jumping Bean coffee trailer,  and finally walk over to select a tree. According to their Facebook page, Sunnyside Farms is owned by the Woyahn family. They bring in their fraizers from Ashe County. This is year 20 for their family business. Many families have annual traditions centered around getting Christmas trees. With those sunny skies and no sign of snow, it is hard to believe Christmas will be here in three Saturdays. 

Happy Monday!

Roseanne Cash, Daniel Levitin, Ph.D., and Ernest Thompson

Singer-songwriter Roseanne Cash, daughter of country music legend Johnny Cash, teamed up with the accomplished neuroscientist Dr. Daniel Levitin to discuss the relationship between music and the brain. They spoke at the Tanger Center for the Performing Arts as part of the 2022-2033 Bryan Series. As promised, during the evening, Levitin and Cash discussed music, creativity, inspiration, and the brain science behind them. They also performed a few songs. Recently, Cash had hand surgery and was unable to play the guitar. Dr. Levitin filled in for her for the songs they sang. However, the crux of the presentation was discussing music and the brain and how and why those connections are so deep. Dr. Levitin reminded us of the complexity of the chemicals of the brain and the fact that we don't know about many of them. He indicated that dopamine is overrated! Both Levitin and Cash are tremendously accomplished in their respective fields and equally passionate about music. Together, they made a great team and were noticeably down to earth. 

The above photo was taken at the book signing that took place after their talk.Dr. Levtin is handing Roseanne Cash a copy of her memoir sign as he prepares to sign a copy of his own book, "This is your Brain on Music." Meanwhile, Roseanne is holding a copy of Ernest Thompson's CD, "The Words I Heard." Ernest, a singer-songwriter from Greensboro, just released his CD a week ago. Here's hoping she has a listen and loves Ernest's music as much as we do.

Happy Saturday!

Ernest Thompson, Singer-songwriter

Ernest Thompson is a singer songwriter with long ties to the Greensboro Community. He attended school at Jones Elementary, Aycock (now Swann) Middle, and graduated from the Early College at Guilford. During his childhood in Greensboro, he had many local music mentors, including Jane Vanmiddlesworth (trumpet), José Melitón (piano), and Scott Manring (banjo). Though he's been playing music since elementary school, Ernest has only been writing songs the last few years. 

He performs frequently in Charleston, SC, but had his first homecoming performing on Tuesday, as part of his southeast tour. He played at Matty Sheets' open mike at the Green Bean Coffee Shop. Ernest's debut album of original songs is finished and will be released to the public soon.  Ernest is most active on Instagram. Follow him at Instagram.com/ErnestThompson91. Ernest was so happy to see many friends come out to support him- some of whom he has known since elementary school. Let's hope we can get Ernest back to town to play again soon! 

Let Her Entertain You: Jessica Mashburn

Last Sunday, we were downtown and, as we walked past Lewis and Elm, we saw the ever-talented Jessica Mashburn inside, getting ready to perform. Lewis and Elm, at the southwest corner of Lewis and Elm,  is a place to get small plates, lite fare food, something to drink, and is a place to socialize. Jessica is a performer who has been entertaining audiences in Greensboro and beyond for most of her adult life. Nobody works harder than Jessica to make music a full time job. Jessica stays current on every music opportunity in town. Over the past few months, she opened for Rita Moreno at Tanger Center, performed at furniture market, private events, at Live Jazz at O. Henry Hotel, and she sang the national anthem at the Grasshoppers baseball game. These are just a few of her gigs. When nor performing, she is attending music events herself and, most recently, was seen working as a musician's buddy for Sam Bush at the North Carolina Folk Festival. 

When performing, Jessica not only goes all out with her sultry, singing voice, she dresses to match the theme or feel of the event. Seeing her perform is a many-layered experience. Jessica can perform covers with the best of them. This brief pose, above, was a quick hello to us through a the side window of Lewis and Elm. Her fascinator, red hair, and big smile make her readily identifiable. How wonderful that Jessica has been able to turn music into a full time profession. If we are lucky, we'll see her at another event soon. Have a great weekend Jessica. Have a great weekend dear readers!

Doug Baker

As the summer of 2022 comes to a close, so do many opportunities to listen to live music. However, there will still be plenty of music indoors. One such opportunity happened a couple of weeks ago when Doug Baker played at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market on Yanceyville Street. Doug has been a performing musician in Greensboro since graduating UNCG in 1978.  He says, “For the most part, I’ve been a lead guitar player in rock bands, but I’ve also done some big band jazz, a lot of free improvisation, and a little bit of musical theatre pit work.” However, songwriting is Doug's true passion and something he has focused on for the last seven years. He is very involved in the local songwriting community. As one example, he hosts a monthly songwriter's round at Scuppernong Books. The next event in the series will be on October 9th at 4pm, and Doug will perform. 

Doug also gives guitar, bass, ukulele, and songwriting lessons.   If you want to hear some of his music or contact him about lessons, performing engagements, or facilitating a singer-songwriting event, go to his website dougbakermusic.com. Doug has expertise in many areas. Also, last year (2021), Doug released his first album of original songs "Navigating Life."  In March, he had a concert in The Crown at the Carolina Theatre. Doug is committed not only to sharing his own talent, but also helping other singer songwriters showcase theirs.

May we all find a little live music to enrich out lives. 

Happy Wednesday! 

 

West Market Street UMC

Please allow us to post one more photo of the North Carolina Folk Festival from last weekend. The above photo features the West Market Street UMC, located at the corner of West Market Street and John Wesley Way. This church is over 175 years old and has about 2,000 members. When many congregants of various church are opting for suburban mega-sites, West Market Street is holding steady as a dynamic, well-attended church downtown. The Old Courthouse Stage is placed in front of the church and the Lawn Stage is just down the street. We're wondering if the church has considered doing something like a Sunday sing on the stage outside their front door. They do sell parking spaces for the day at the festival, as a fundraiser. However, it seems like they would be ripe to be involved in other ways. The building is just so beautiful and the congregation is so inviting. Maybe we'll try to attend next year during the festival. It looks so beautiful at night. This would be a perfect opportunity to turn on some of the lights to let those stained glass windows glow with all of their glory. 

If you are interested in West Market UMC, HERE is a link to their website. They offer something for everybody from young to old and for those who like traditional services to those who like something more contemporary. Have a great Sunday and please stop back by tomorrow... and every day!

CTG

Have you ever been to the little alley at 520 South Elm Street to the side entrance to the Community Theatre of Greensboro? The wall of donors looks like the Yellow Brick Road in the Wizard of Oz, the play CTG produces annually and is actually casting for at the moment. Who will be the next Dorothy? Wicked Witch? Glinda? We'll soon find out. Slowly, some of the alleys of Greensboro are being revived and this is one such example. Ever since they purchased the 160 seat Broach Theatre in 2013, this has been home to one of the performing arts treasures of Greensboro. Mitchell Sommers had been at the helm of CTG for more than 27 years and oversaw this transition from the Cultural Arts Center to the above location. In 2017, he stepped down and earlier this summer retired - only to take on the interim executive directorship of Triad Stage (but that is another post for another GDP day). Rosalyn Fulton, whom many know from her many years at the Children's Theatre program in Greensboro, is the current director. Indeed, Greensboro is lucky to have these dedicated professionals to help keep the performing arts thriving in our community. 

We hope you have a chance to get out and downtown this weekend. Our town, any town, does best with community support. We get a smile on our face every time we walk down this alley, not only for the goodness we know is happening inside the theatre, but because of the scent of incense that is floating down from Terra Blue just around the corner. We always try to figure out what is burning (lavender, patchouli, Egyptian sage?).  Standing here, we just noticed "CONE" in the stars above. We're betting it is in honor of the late Robert (Bob) Cone who was a lifelong supporter of Community Theatre of Greensboro.

Have a great weekend, dear readers!

Great Folk Enjoying Great Music at the NC Folk Festival

Carol Thompson (right) loves Old-Time music. She has been featured in the News & Record at least twice for her flat-foot dancing at the North Carolina Folk Festival. Carol not only dances, she also calls square dances and probably contra dances, too. Her energy and footwork on her portable, wooden dance board are impressive. She preps the board with a little corn meal to create just the right balance between glide and traction. On Saturday, Carol was dancing to the Zinc Kings and the young person on the left, a fiddler from Charleston, SC, came up to dance, but didn't have a board. Without missing a beat, Carol turned her board from portrait to landscape orientation, and the two danced away. The North Carolina Folk Festival is like that: Two complete strangers, united by music and dance, arm in arm, smiling and dancing. 

Other people eventually joined them and Carol even gave an impromptu dance lesson to a child- perhaps about ten years old- explaining that the movements are akin to skipping. He worked at the steps, left with a smile on his face, and then returned to thank Carol. Dancing, music, fellowship, and smiles are the hallmark of a great festival. Thank you to everyone involved in the North Carolina Folk Festival 2022, including Lynn Donovan who was checking her photos before stepping back into action , capturing more photos of a very great day. Not even rain dampened the attendees' spirits!

CTG Wizard of Oz

It is that time of year again, audition time for the Wizard of Oz. This year will be the 27th annual production. It is getting close to three generations of children having been raised acting and attending the play. As you can see from the above poster, on the South Elm Street side of the CTG building,  today is the day for 12 year olds and younger to audition. There are so many roles and always opportunities to learn to be crew and to help with the production. It is always fun to see which adults in our community will be cast. Who will be the Wicked Witch? Audiitons are actually held at the Carolina Theatre at 310 South Greene Street. You have to come prepared with a song and bring your music for the accompanist (see here for more details). Also, you must register in advance. Hopefully, if interested, you have already done so. 

Please see the video (HERE) to view the amazing transformation of Miss Gulch into the Wicked Witch. This play is such a fun tradition for the Greensboro community. Happy Monday!

NC Folk Festival 2022: Greensboro Proud

Greensboro can be so proud of the job we are doing hosting the 2022 NC Folk Festival. And, it is so wonderful that we get to host the event. Last night, as the sun set and the full-to-the-eye moon rose over the City Stage tent at the festival, Greensboro came alive. By 9:00 pm, when Sam Bush came on stage, City Stage was standing room only. People congregated to hear this American mandolinist play his instrument at breakneck speed, without missing a beat. Even if progressive bluegrass music isn't your genre, the energy of the Sam Bush Band would have captivated you. To the right of the stage, the ASL professionals signing the concert brought the event alive for the deaf and hard of hearing. How was it possible for them to be so accurate with their interpreting?! Surrounded by good music, food trucks, the merchandise tent, the bar tent, and port-a-potties galore, the festival-going crowd had all of their needs met. That was just one of FIVE places you could go to hear great music. Today and tonight at the festival will be equally engaging. And, even if it is raining, there are plenty of places at the stages to listen under the comfort of a tent. 

You may remember in April, we featured Lynn Witherspoon. She is working operations behind the scene to make sure that the festival is running smoothly; and it is. We have been so impressed with the footprint of the festival this year. Getting from one venue to the next is very manageable and the.food trucks and craft vendors are conveniently located all along the way. And there is such variety in the food trucks. Well worth the wait in line. The Jamaican-jerk salmon was getting rave reviews. We're not sure how many people are attending the festival from out of town and out of state. But, we're hoping the NC Folk Festival is here to stay in Greensboro and we can all do our share to promote it, attend it, and to help those around us have a good time. We have seen so many old friends and made some new ones. For the rest of today and tomorrow, great memories are only a ride-to-town away!

Happy Saturday!

 

Folk Festival 2022

The North Carolina State Folk Festival is upon us. How wonderful that Greensboro has earned the honor of having the festival here. Let's all head downtown and support these musicians. So many different genres of music and ethnicities of people will be represented. There is something for everybody. Tonight is the 7th annual pre-festival concert,  Songs of Hope and Justice, in the Van Dyke Performances Space at 200 North Davie Street. HERE is a link to learn more about the concert and to purchase tickets. You can also access the festival lineup, performance schedule, and festival map from that same link.

Much consideration has gone into ensure the pedestrian footprint is safe and walkable. The northernmost street is Bellemeade, extending south to Market and Washington Streets. Church and Eugene Streets are the east/west boundaries. You might want to bring a water bottle and a lightweight folding chair. The North Carolina makers marketplace will be at the crossroads of Elm Street and Friendly Avenue. The above photo was taken last year at the Old Courthouse Stage on Market Street and it will be in about the same position this year.

We sure hope to see you downtown. Donate and make purchases if you are able. And remember, clapping and other signs of appreciation bring performers and volunteers so much joy. 

Happy Thursday! Happy weekend of music!

 

Carolina Theatre

The Carolina Theatre, at 310 South Greene Street downtown, is once again active with booking events lately. This theatre has been Greensboro's crowned jewel since 1927, almost 100 years since it opened. Thanks to restoration, repairs, and maintenance over the years, this theatre is as beautiful on the inside is as it is on the outside. As you see on the marquee, donors are an important part of sustaining the theatre. In the 2018-2019 season, just before the pandemic, they had over 100,000 people attend events. With other performing arts venues in Greensboro, especially the Tanger Center, The Carolina Theatre has a lot of competition. The management knows its audience and the type of events that will be popular here. We enjoy the old movies they feature on the big screen!

The Carolina Theatre has seen a lot of growth in the neighborhood around it. The new Hampton Inn is just down the street. And then, there is the bodega across the street where you grab a quick snack before heading in to see a performance. We took this photo from the entrance to The Bodega as the afternoon sun was backlighting the theatre. Tonight is Jokez and Jam at 8:00 pm. If you need a good laugh, this might be the event for you! Regardless, you will find something great to do downtown.

Happy Saturday!

Here is a link to the Carolina Theatre's upcoming events.

Sunday Afternoon at Double Oaks

The Double Oaks B&B at 204 North Mendenhall Street dates to 1909. It was built for Harden Thomas Martin who was a native of Rockingham County,  the next county north of Guilford. The home was first opened as a bead and breakfast in 1998 by Win and Ann Milan. In 2016, James and Amanda Keith purchased the property and they have been working very hard to not only have it be a bed and breakfast, but to also be a venue for activities that bring in the community. The Keiths host events and also make it possible for community members to host events. The above photo features the Sunday afternoon old-time music group during String Band Sunday (from 4-7 pm). On Wednesday evenings they have jazz- Wine Wednesday.

If you know old-time music, you know that the fiddler calls the tunes and pretty much sets the pace for the jam. The above fiddler, Christen Blanton Mack is part of the Zinc Kings. They will be one of the featured bands at the North Carolina Folk Festival in Greensboro (September 9-11). Head to the folk festival to hear Christen fiddle. Or, stop by Double Oaks on Sunday afternoons to hear her fiddling and, maybe even play a tune with her. Savory tacos with homemade tortilla shells are available on Sunday afternoons. We are so lucky that in Greensboro, so many of these local venues offer special events- music, arts and crafts events, food trucks, and more. They say Thursday is the new Friday. Head out and find some fun! A new adventure is only a google search away!

Center Creative Leadership

Last night was the opening reception for an art exhibit at the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) on 220 North near Owls Roost and Bur-Mil Park. Six artists have their work in a show, entitled, Unexpected Treasures (Kathy Brusnighan, Laura Clisset, Vicki Johnson, Susan Lange, Jean Smith, and Ashley Walters). The opening reception was very well attended with the parking lot full on a Friday night. There were nice snacks and the atmosphere was conducive to relaxing, admiring art, and even strolling the lovely grounds of the Center for Creative Leadership.

Founded in 1970, CCL is committed to advancing the understanding of leadership what it entails to be an effective leader.   When on the CCL campus, you can see the video and artifacts about the Richardson Family. The family's lucrative business began with Lunsford Richardson, American Pharmacist and founder of Vick Chemical Company. It would be H. Smith Richardson, Jr., who would turn the concept of leadership and training leaders into a business. Today CCL is a global enterprise with its roots and home base right here in Greensboro North Carolina. 

One of the big surprises was that during the opening reception, lovely piano playing could be heard throughout the building. The pianist was Lisa Sinclair, a CCL employee for 34 years. While you won't be treated to Linda's piano playing, it is possible to stop by and see the artwork, by appointment, until November 18th. 

Happy Saturday!

Alina Herrera & Dulce Melodrama

The above photo features the Greensboro band Dulce Melodrama during band practice on Sunday evening. The musicians have been playing together for about three years and, if you like energetic, Latin alternative music, you will love this band. They have quite a versatile range and can take classic ballads in Spanish and add a modern twist. With Dulce Melodrama, the old is new! They are getting close to heading into the studio to record, but for now, you can hear them on Instagram (dmdmusic) and on Facebook (Dulce Melodrama). Even better, tomorrow night, they are playing at Ramkat in Winston Salem, as the opening act for Monsieur Periné. Mark your calendar for Tuesday, August 9th. Doors open at 7pm, Dulce Melodrama plays at 8 pm, and Monsieur Periné is on at 9pm. This Ramkat concert will be fabulous.

The above photo features from left to right, José Ponce, who plays lead guitar, Leo Vega, on drums, Daniel Solís, bassist, and Alina Herrera, sings lead vocals and plays rhythm guitar. Ethnically, with heritage from Mexico, Guatemala, and Puerto Rico, these talented musicians come together to bring a sound that can range from folk and traditional to pop, rock, and alternative. We plan to head to the Ramkat to enjoy their concert tomorrow night.  However, even better will be getting to hear them in Greensboro. Maybe we can get Monsieur Periné to Greensboro, too. The Latinx community in Greensboro is growing, providing more opportunities to hear Latin music. We'll let you know about upcoming tour dates for Dulce Melodrama. 

Happy Monday and until tomorrow! ¡Feliz lunes y hasta mañana!