In between the cookouts, pool-days and staying inside with the AC blasting, there’s still time to enjoy some local events in the Queen City this month. We’ve compiled a list of events we’re excited about — from highlighting Black culture to playing childhood games like Twister.
July 6
Blues For Mama
Set in Baltimore City during the 1980s, this dramatic production centers on a family grappling with the mental health challenges of their matriarch and the impact on her daughters. The play uses the music of Nina Simone to underscore the family’s struggles and the themes of aging, family dynamics, and the complexities of navigating personal battles.
Place: Booth Playhouse at Blumenthal Arts Center
Time: 6 p.m.
Cost: starting at $40.23
More info
July 10
Najee & Regina Belle
R&B singer Regina Bell will take the stage at The Amp Ballantyne, an outdoor amphitheater. Known for her powerful vocals and soulful ballads, Belle is expected to perform her greatest hits alongside new material.
Place: The Amp Ballantyne
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $180
More info
July 11
She Sings, She Speaks: Beneath the Skin with Nnenna Freelon
Join performing artist Nnenna Freelon at the Gantt Center for an evening of song, word and storytelling as she explores themes of loss, love and the creative process. Freelon, whose late husband, architect Phil Freelon, designed the Gantt Center, will introduce her upcoming book, “Beneath the Skin of Sorrow: Improvisations on Loss,” paired with her latest album, “Beneath the Skin.”
Place: Harvey B. Gantt Center
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $25.
More info
Charlotte State of Mind: Persona Sings Alicia Keys
Join Persona Bell as she takes the stage to celebrate the music of Alicia Keys. With her incredible piano skills and soulful voice, Bell will infuse each song with her unique style and emotional depth.
July 12
“Baby Boy – The Stage Play”
Daniel is a senior in high school whose friend was recently killed. To keep Daniel safe, his mother sends him to live with his aunt in the suburbs. Daniel quickly finds out that no matter where he lives, he is still a Black male and there are certain things that he cannot do. (preview)
Place: Booth Playhouse at Blumenthal Arts Center
Time: 7 p.m.
Cost: Starts at $40.23$40.23
More info
July 18-20
“Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations”
Nominated for 12 Tony® Awards and the winner of the 2019 Tony Award for Best Choreography, this Broadway musical follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With their signature dance moves and silky-smooth harmonies, they rose to the top of the charts, creating an amazing 42 Top Ten Hits, with 14 reaching No. 1.
Place: Belk Theater at Blumenthal Arts Center
Time: varies
Cost: Starts at $46.39
More info
July 19
Herbalism on the Homesite
This workshop will introduce visitors to the practice of herbalism in colonial America. Learn how early settlers and healers used plants and natural remedies to treat common ailments, and discover which herbs were grown and foraged right here in the Carolina backcountry.
Place: Charlotte Museum of History
Time: 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Cost: $5 donation is suggested
More info
July 26
Twister Tournament
Here’s a chance to get yourself all tied up in knots. You can buy a ticket to compete in the tournament or go and watch for free.
Place: Stage 1 at Blume Studios
Time: 2 p.m.
Cost: Starts at $5
More info
July 29 – Aug 31
Immediate Family
In the Bryant family’s Hyde Park home, prodigal son Jesse shows up for a family wedding and turns the gathering into a family showdown. Jesse is afraid to be true to himself and honest with his family, and no one can understand why Tony is so eager to get married. Directed by Phylicia Rashad.
Place: Booth Playhouse at Blumenthal Arts Center
Time: Varies
Cost: Starts at $27.89
More info
Now – Sept. 21
Monopoly Lifesize
In this interactive gaming experience, players find themselves in a life-sized version of the iconic game. Your goal? Solve clever puzzles, collect properties and outsmart opponents before time runs out.
Place: Stage 1 at Blume Studios
Time: Book your time
Cost: Private boards start at $34.30 per person and accommodate up to 24 players. Tickets also available for Individuals and small groups.
More info
