This Weekend in Charlotte: The Jazz Room, Phish, Seinfeld, & More
FRIDAY
THE JAZZ ROOM: BRIAN MILLER
Saxophonist Brian Miller pays homage to Charlie Parker, the famed jazz giant nicknamed “Yardbird.” Parker was hailed for developing the “bebop” style and popular compositions. The Jazz Room regularly invites area musicians like Miller to cover the work of legends in the jazz genre.
JESSE MCCARTNEY
In Technicolor is the latest from actor/musician Jesse McCartney. The record was released on Tuesday, and it was written with retro acts in mind, including Prince, Earth, Wind, & Fire, and Michael Jackson. It’s the fourth studio album for the 27-year-old.
PHISH
Devoted fans already know about the legendary jam band’s Charlotte appearance, but it isn’t too late to jump aboard. With dozens of studio and live recording under their belt, including June’s Fuego, there’s no shortage of entry points for the uninitiated. Beware, though: If you don’t like extended jam sessions, you may want to skip.
SEINFELD LIVE
As the titular star of one of TV’s greatest sitcoms, Seinfeld had no monetary reason to keep touring as a comic after the show ended in 1998. But the comedian maintains that this role is the one he holds most dear.
SATURDAY
RASCAL FLATTS, SHERYL CROW, & GLORIANA
In May, Rascal Flatts unleashed Rewind, the band’s newest. They tour with Sheryl Crow and Gloriana to support the release of the record.
DREAM A LITTLE DREAM
Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte presents the real-life story of The Mamas and The Papas. Denny Doherty, one of the original members, is a writer and producer behind the play. His perspective shines through in a narrative that explores the 1960s and the influence the folk rock group had on the world.
NATIONAL DANCE DAY
Carolinas HealthCare System sponsors this free dance event. Instructors will be there to teach everyone two dances to mark the holiday. This event was created to promote health and self-esteem, and it’s free to anyone who wants to show up and learn something new.
MARY POPPINS
Check out Central Piedmont Community College’s Summer Theatre production to relive the tale of the magical nanny and songs like “Step in Time” and “Supercalifragicexpialidocious.” The play is adapted from the Disney movie and books by P.L. Travers, and it’s suitable for both adults and kids. Full disclosure: I had to use Google to find out how to spell “supercalifragicexpialidocious.”
GANTTFEST
Ganttfest returns with this day of music, dance, workshops, and more. All celebrates the culture and arts of Diaspora. This year’s celebration coincides with the 40th anniversary of the center, so expect some special offerings this time around.
THE LONDON SOULS
River Jam, the summer music series from the U.S. National Whitewater Center, continues with the London Souls. The influence of groups like Led Zeppelin and the Beatles is evident in this New York group, which has a knack for live improvisation.
SUNDAY
LEON RUSSELL
Since 1965, the singer/songwriter has provided tunes in the country, rock, and blues genres. Russell was inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame in 2011. The Neighborhood Theatre backdrop is perfect for a rocking but intimate show with this industry icon.
MATES OF STATE
The indie pop duo comes to the Chop Shop in NoDa. Their latest record, Mountaintops, was released in 2011. End your weekend with the sounds of tunes like “Get Better” and “Sway.”
