Entertainment

Join the fun at the Fayetteville Ukulele Jamboree

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Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Written by Sheila D. Barker

The Fayetteville Ukulele Club is excited to celebrate five years of spreading joy and music throughout the community. This milestone marks five years of bringing people together through the enchanting sounds of the ukulele.
Help them celebrate at the Fayetteville Ukulele Jamboree and be a part of this joyous occasion. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Exciting Workshops for All Skill Levels
The Jamboree on Oct. 12 offers a variety of workshops tailored to different skill levels, including beginner adults, beginner youth, and advanced beginners. For just $20, participants can choose to attend a 10 a.m. workshop, a 2 p.m. workshop, or both, and will receive an event t-shirt.
Don't have a ukulele? No problem! Sign up to borrow one when you register online. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the world of ukulele playing, guided by experienced instructors. The deadline to sign up for the workshops is September 20th.
Catch the North Carolina Ukulele Collective Live in Concert
At 1 p.m., the North Carolina Ukulele Collective will take the stage for a free concert open to the public. This talented group of musicians, hailing from Fayetteville, Wilson, Raleigh, New Bern, Oriental, Wilmington, and the surrounding areas, has performed together for three years.
Don't miss this chance to enjoy their lively performance, sing along to your favorite tunes, and soak in the infectious energy of the ukulele.
Event Details and How to Register
The Fayetteville Ukulele Jamboree will be held at Arran Lake Baptist Church at 1130 Bingham Drive in Fayetteville on Oct. 12.
To secure your spot in the workshops, and to borrow an ukulele if needed, be sure to register online at Fayetteville Ukulele Jamboree Registration.
This event promises to be a fun-filled day for ukulele enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn, play, and connect with fellow ukulele lovers.
For more information about the workshops, instructors, times, location, and clubs visit: https://linktr.ee/fayettevilleukulelejamboree
The success of the Fayetteville Ukulele Jamboree is made possible through the generous support of the Arts Council of Fayetteville|Cumberland County, the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and other community partners.

(Graphic Courtesy of Fayetteville Ukulele Jamboree's Facebook Page)

FSO opens season with music of three British songwriters

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Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Written by Sheila D. Barker

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra is ready to kick off its 2024-2025 season with a spectacular opening night on Saturday, Sept. 21, at the Seabrook Auditorium at Fayetteville State University. The evening promises to be a celebration of iconic masterpieces from three of Britain's finest songwriters: Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John, and Sir Paul McCartney.
Audiences are in for an extraordinary treat as the orchestra, joined by a lineup of world-class vocalists, takes the stage to perform an unforgettable selection of some of the greatest hits from these legendary artists.
This grand opening event is not merely a tribute to their remarkable musical genius but also a heartfelt celebration of their prestigious knighthood honors. With such a rich blend of talent and recognition, this promises to be a night filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories that will resonate long after the final note is played.
Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, a prominent figure in the world of musical theater, was the first among the distinguished trio to receive the honor of knighthood in 1992.
His remarkable achievements and significant contributions to the arts were further recognized when he was elevated to the esteemed status of life peerage in 1997. Over the years, he has garnered numerous accolades for his work, culminating in his recent appointment as a Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, an honor bestowed upon him by King Charles III, highlighting his lasting impact on the cultural landscape.
Sir Elton John received the honor of knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to the world of music as well as his significant charitable efforts. Over the course of his illustrious career, which has lasted for many decades, he has established himself as a true global icon.
Sir Paul McCartney, a legendary figure, was knighted on March 11, 1997, by Queen Elizabeth II for his extraordinary and unmatched contributions to the world of music. His timeless and iconic hits continue to resonate deeply with audiences of all ages, bridging gaps between generations and cultures.
Concertgoers can look forward to an incredible repertoire that is filled with timeless classics that have stood the test of time. From the legendary Sir Paul McCartney, fans will be treated to unforgettable hits like "Let It Be," "Yesterday," and "Hey Jude."
These songs are not just melodies; they are emotional journeys that will surely stir deep feelings and evoke cherished memories for many listeners. Each note and lyric resonate with the audience, creating a shared experience that transcends generations.
In addition, Sir Elton John's fan favorites will also take center stage. Songs such as "Candle in the Wind," "Daniel," and "Don't Go Breakin' My Heart" promise to bring the house down with their powerful melodies and profound lyrical depth. These tracks are known for their ability to connect with listeners on a personal level, making them a highlight of the concert experience.
Moreover, the masterpieces of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber will enchant the audience. Iconic songs like "Music of the Night," "Memory," and "I Don't Know How to Love Him," all from his blockbuster musicals, will transport audiences to the magical world of theater.
Each performance will be a celebration of storytelling through music, captivating everyone in attendance and leaving them with lasting impressions of the beauty of live performance. This concert is sure to be a memorable event for all who attend.
Seabrook Auditorium, located on the Fayetteville State University campus at 1200 Murchison Road, is the ideal venue for this musical extravaganza. With a seating capacity of 1,132, the auditorium offers an intimate setting that enhances the live music experience.
Known for its extraordinary acoustics, Seabrook Auditorium ensures that every note played and sung resonates beautifully, providing audiences an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Responding to popular demand, the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra is excited to announce that concessions will now be available during performances at Seabrook Auditorium. This new addition aims to enhance the concert experience by offering refreshments that attendees can enjoy during the show.
Concertgoers can look forward to a variety of snacks and beverages, making their evening even more enjoyable as they relish the musical performances.
Tickets for “Music of the Knights” can be purchased at the FSO website at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/ or by calling the box office at 910-443-4690.
Next up is an event that you absolutely cannot afford to miss! Join the FSO on Oct. 12 for an exciting and free Symphony Movie Night at Dirtbag Ales. This special evening will feature the screening of the hauntingly beautiful 1922 German silent film, Nosferatu, which is considered a classic in the horror genre.
The eerie atmosphere of the film will be further intensified by live music that has been thoughtfully arranged by the talented Peter B. Kay. This combination of visuals and live sound is sure to create a captivating experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
No need to book ahead for this exciting event—just show up ready for a night of unforgettable scares and thrills!
Remember to bring seating like chairs or blankets. Rain or shine, the show will go on, so be prepared for an evening of chills and entertainment you won't soon forget.
Don't pass up this chance to watch movies in a totally new and spine-tingling way!

(Photo: Musicians in the horn section of the FSO play a piece of music during a performance. Photo Credit: Raul Ruberia)

'80s Unleashed: Rock'n On the River's season closer

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Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Written by Alyson Hansen

Rock'n on the River's final concert of the season will take place at Campbellton Landing at Deep Creek Outfitters, Sept. 20, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.
Two bands will perform to bring back some classic songs to the crowd. '80s Unleashed takes the stage at 6 p.m., and Beggar's Banquet performs at 8 p.m.
'80s Unleashed is a full '80s cover band, bringing back all of the favorites.
"If you are like us, we love the '80s! It was such a cool time to grow up. Who remembers the Rubix Cube or Swatch Watches or Members Only Jackets? We do. How about Skinny Ties, Vans Checkerboard Shoes, Guys with Mullets or Girls with Camaro Hair? We do! Most of all, the music! It was such a simpler time. In the 80's POP Radio played all genres, Rock, Rap, Pop etc. 80's Unplugged was the original idea I [Bryan Shaw] had years ago. I happened to see a Dueling Piano Show and was intrigued by all the requests they were able to play. I thought why not combine 80's music AND requests??? BOOM! Fast forward a decade later and thousands of shows/requests later, we decided to plug back in and 80's UNLEASHED was born!" boasts the '80s Unleashed website, https://bit.ly/3z2otPU
The band has played all over the area and was awarded with the Best Cover Band in Fayetteville in 2013 by a community poll. Get ready for a fabulous '80s experience.
The second band of the evening, Beggar's Banquet, will begin playing around 8 p.m. Beggar's Banquet is a Rolling Stones tribute band, and is the premier Rolling Stones Tribute Band of the Carolinas. Nine performers play on stage including keyboards, horn, backup singers, percussion and cello.
"Beggars Banquet is true to the spirit of the songs and brings all the musical bells and whistles for a live Rock and Roll show that is a unique 'Stones,'" according
to their website.
Doug Davis leads the band with his vocal talent, and is surrounded by eight other talented musicians on stage. For more information about Beggar's Banquet, visit https://beggarsbanquetband.com/
Rock'n On the River's 2024 season has been a huge success. The concert series is free to attend, and guests can bring in a chair and enjoy music on the Cape Fear River.
Those who wish to attend the last concert of the season should note there is a $10 fee for parking, and no outside coolers or beverages are allowed. Refreshments are available for purchase.
The Sept. 20 show is presented by Healy Wholesale, and half of the parking proceeds go to benefit the Karen Chandler Trust Cancer Charity. Come rock out one last time for the summer of 2024 at Campbellton Landing on Sept. 20.

Eyes closed, style open: Vision Resource Center holds first Blind to Boundaries Fashion Show

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Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Written by Lena Simmons

The Vision Resource Center is presenting the first fashion show featuring persons experiencing blindness and visual impairment as models in Cumberland County -Blind to Boundaries. The fashion show will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Kiwanis Recreation Center, 355 Devers Street. The doors open at 12:30 p.m., and the show will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. General admission tickets are $25. Ticket purchases are available online at https://bit.ly/3z56ZSU or by contacting the Vision Resource Center at 910-483-2719.
“The Vision Resource Center enhances the lives of adults and children living in the Cape Fear Region who are visually impaired by advocating for their needs,” according to Vision Resource Center, https://www.visionresourcecentercc.org.
Katherine Hill, Vision Resource Volunteer, shares, “Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon for the Blind to Boundaries Fashion Show, where you can glimpse into a world that is inspiring and empowering. This event offers a unique perspective on everyday life and functions, highlighting what true beauty really means. We are making history by presenting the very first fashion show featuring the incredible blind and visually impaired community.”
“The Blind to Boundaries Fashion Show is like no other. It features blind and visually impaired models. These inspiring members of the Vision Resource Center will strut the runway highlighting their impeccable style and redefining traditional notions of beauty. Prepare to be moved by their resilience and determination as they command the stage with confidence and grace. Do not miss the experience of what blindness is not,” said Shona Phillips, Vision Resource Center Volunteer
See the style and sophistication of the Blind to Boundaries Fashion Show presented by Vision Resource Center.