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Tuesday, 18 February 2025
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Written by Amber Little
The success of a business is marked by its longevity and loyal customer base. After closing its previous Hay Street location in 2017 and hitting some roadblocks that delayed the new location opening by a staggering seven years, A Taste of West Africa is back, much to the delight of city residents and those afar.
In honor of being back in business for a year and succeeding even after the hiatus, A Taste of West Africa is hosting a formal on Saturday, Feb. 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the new location, 116 Person Street. Guests will enjoy a night filled with music, including a special Motown Tribute, specialty cocktails, a variety of wines and beers from the newly opened bar and lounge area in the restaurant, and of course, a bite of the delicious and aromatic foods that have made this restaurant a downtown favorite and cultural hub.
Of the brick buildings that line the historic downtown area, one in particular stands out, in all the best ways. Yellow marks the spot, with its brightly painted brick exterior and exquisite window murals celebrating the pride of the Motherland, A Taste of West Africa’s new location is everything that owner Dr. Isabella Effon has dreamed of when she first brought the rich and savory foods of her homeland, Ghana.
The vision was not to just be a restaurant to grab fufu or fried plantains, but a place to be immersed in the diverse cultures that make up Africa. From the newly hung paintings and statues to the framed history of the vast African nations, every part of A Taste of West Africa is a piece of history and tells the story of the people of the land.
Dr. Effon has made a conscious effort to provide a space that teaches and unifies, saying “Culture is my biggest [passion]. I’m an advocate for the African culture and we have a lot of information to give out. I see my space as a place of that infamy, not only that but sharing the arts, the beautiful pieces. So [you] don’t have to go to a museum all the time to read and see some [African culture]. Each country is unique, South, Northeast, West and Central. I tell people all the time, Ghana is a country, but you still have south, east, and west [Ghanaian culture].”
She also hopes to be a hub for other cultures here in Cumberland County. The restaurant plays host to a local Latin dance group and AfroBeats yoga class in the event space, Volta, located in the back. Even this space is dripped in culture and meaning, as Dr. Effon is from Lake Volta, Ghana. There is no detail spared in this space, even down to the food.
For those who have never tried African food, there is no better introduction than at the capable hands of Dr. Effon and her beautiful mother, saying, “I don’t cook anything spicy (you can request it on the side). I know I’ve always had family, little children, the parents say they don’t eat at home, but they eat my food. I take that dearly to my heart. [It's] well-seasoned. It’s delicious. [I] put a little spin on it to make it pleasing to all of us, [I] add vegetables to all my soups, which a lot of Africans don’t do… My food is made to order. I don’t have soups sitting in the back here or anything. I cook for each and every individual.”
For more information on menu items, cultural events, classes, and all things A Taste of West Africa, visit the website at https://www.tasteofwestafrica.net/ and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TasteOfWestAfrica. Tickets for the formal on Saturday, Feb. 22 can be purchased at https://bit.ly/4hSExo7
Group and individual tickets are available.
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Tuesday, 18 February 2025
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Written by Lisa Stevens
This is going to be a show worth remembering! From March 7 to 9, Ringling Bros Circus will perform six performances at the Crown Coliseum, at 1960 Coliseum Dr.
Ringling Bros Circus is not just a show; it's an unforgettable experience designed to delight children of all ages with incredible acts, dazzling lights and heart-pounding performances. In a world saturated with screens and digital distractions, Ringling offers a refreshing break from the routine—an opportunity for families to unplug, be present, and immerse themselves in live entertainment that thrives without Wi-Fi.
Prepare to witness acts unique only to Ringling, such as the never-before-seen triangular highwire and crisscross flying trapeze, which add layers of complexity to traditional circus performances. You will see more action and more performers simultaneously than ever before. The high-energy BMX stunt scene will have you on the edge of your seat as bikes and riders flip high above the arena on ramps and trampolines.
Adding vibrancy are live music performances to encourage audience participation, creating an electric atmosphere. The Double Wheel of Destiny pushes limits with four daredevils executing daring leaps and somersaults on two spinning apparatuses, soaring 30 feet above ground at incredible speeds. And don’t forget Wesley, the One Wheel Wonder—a Guinness World Record-setting performer riding the world’s tallest unicycle at an astonishing 34.6 feet!
Imagine the thrill of watching gravity-defying stunts and breathtaking acrobatics unfold before your eyes. Each performance has jaw-dropping acts that keep everyone on the edge of their seats. The live nature of these shows creates an electrifying atmosphere filled with real-time reactions that deliver a “wow factor,” making memories that linger long after the final bow. There’s something magical about witnessing your child’s eyes light up in wonder—a feeling that fosters countless “Did you see that?!” moments for families to share.
What makes Ringling so special is its multi-generational appeal; there’s something for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. This inclusivity makes it easy to bring the entire family together for a day filled with joy and laughter. The creativity, artistry, and sheer spectacle ignite inspiration in young minds—encouraging kids to dream big and imagine new possibilities while inviting them to play circus at home. As vibrant costumes swirl around the ring and set designs come alive in larger-than-life fashion, families are treated to a feast for their eyes. The bright colors and intricate details stimulate creativity and curiosity in children while providing endless fodder for imaginative play long after they leave the tent.
Moreover, Ringling offers one-of-a-kind souvenirs that allow kids (and parents) to treasure their experiences forever. From glow wands to themed snow cone cups, these keepsakes let everyone take home a piece of magic they can relive. Families can even create a free digital souvenir keepsake video from The Greatest Show On Earth.
Skyler Miser, known as the Human Rocket, has been performing with Ringling Bro Circus since she was 13 years old. Skyler has been dazzling audiences with her incredible performances at Ringling Bros. Circus, a dream ignited by her parents’ legacy as human cannonballs.
"My parents were both human cannonballs on Ringling my whole childhood, and I remember watching them on stage, knowing that was what I wanted to do,” Miser fondly recalls.
Miser’s journey is a testament to the power of trusting oneself - trusting your gut and your heart in pursuit of your dreams. Performing is not merely a job for her; it is a gift that allows her to spread joy and inspiration to countless spectators. She understands that each performance is an opportunity to connect with others on an emotional level, creating unforgettable memories.
Miser emphasizes the deep sense of community within Ringling Bros., stating, "One thing I love about Ringling is that we truly are a family."
With Miser leading the charge as the Human Rocket, it's clear that this vibrant tradition will continue to inspire future generations of performers and audiences alike.
Lauren Irving, playing the role of Aria, joined Ringling Bros Circus in 2023. From an early age, her love for music was nurtured by her parents, who introduced her to a diverse range of genres and styles. This foundational support propelled her into a vibrant journey through music—from being a chorus kid participating in the All-State Chorus to honing her craft at Shorter University under Dr. Martha Shaw.
Her impressive career has taken Irving from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando to performing internationally at Universal Studios Japan for three years. Each experience has enriched her artistry and deepened her connection with audiences worldwide.
Now, as she takes center stage as Aria in The Greatest Show on Earth, Irving finds herself at the intersection of her two greatest passions: music and people. This role is not just another job; it’s a fulfillment of dreams where she can share joy with audiences while celebrating the very essence that makes Ringling Bros so special. Though this iteration may be reimagined, it retains the heart and soul that have defined Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey for generations. Irving assures that this legacy is alive and stronger than ever—an invitation for everyone to experience the magic anew.
Wesley Williams, the one-wheel wonder, embodies the spirit of performance and passion that defines The Greatest Show On Earth. Since the re-launch of Ringling in September 2023, Williams has been captivating audiences with his extraordinary talent, having started rehearsals just a few months prior. His journey began at an early age when a visit to Ringling ignited his love for circus arts. At six years old, he received a unicycle from Santa Claus and quickly transitioned from neighborhood shows to national and international stages.
Williams’ dedication to his craft is palpable; he recognizes that performing is not merely about showcasing incredible feats but also about sharing joy with others. Each performance offers him unique gratification as he aims to inspire audience members to dream big and pursue their goals. He emphasizes that mastery in performing arts requires unwavering passion and commitment—qualities that shine through every time he takes the stage.
The return of The Greatest Show On Earth is not just a revival; it’s an opportunity for families across the country to create new traditions together. Williams understands this deeply, reflecting on how significant Ringling was for his family growing up. With new energy and innovative acts that honor over 150 years of tradition, Williams stands as a testament to resilience in showbiz. His performances remind us that while it may take hard work and dedication behind the scenes, nothing compares to witnessing the smiles on children’s faces—a reward worth every effort put into perfecting his art.
For many parents who fondly remember attending Ringling Bros. as children, sharing this experience with their own kids creates beautiful nostalgia intertwined with new adventures. With updated shows featuring modern twists and fresh performances, every visit promises both familiarity and excitement for audiences of all ages.
So, gather your loved ones! Experience the thrill of Ringling Bros Circus together, it’s more than just entertainment; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories filled with laughter, awe, and inspiration!
Tickets and show times are available at www.Ringling.com and Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue box office.
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