March Issue of What's the 411? Atlanta

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March 2012

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Check out Atlanta area events

www.The411ATL.com

TM March 2012 Edition

Christian p3

Women’s History p10

Entertainment p15

March is Women’s History Month

It goes without saying that women have been a vital part of history throughout the sands of time and a key part of God’s plan for mankind.

Set aside sometime this month to learn something new about Herstory. In the Atlanta area we have some great events taking place, like the 15th

Annual Black Herstory Conference and the Women of Color Arts Festival.

On another note, we would like to thank the Atlanta community for the warm welcome we received with our opening edition. We look forward to keeping you informed on the best entertainment in Atlanta that is also tasteful and fun.

Check out events on What’s the 411? Where new memories await you…

Maxine Clark, Founder

Copyright © 2012 What’s the 411 Atlanta, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 925 Main Street, 300-16, Stone Mountain, GA, 30083. For advertising and general inquiries contact [email protected]. Please check the event website for the latest event information. Also note event prices may not include all applicable fees and taxes. Events are subject to change. Therefore, we cannot guarantee its accuracy or be held liable for incorrect information, omissions, mistakes or errors. We reserve the right to reject any material we deem inappropriate.

Cover credit: © Gracjanna44|VectorStock.com

Christian Events

What’s the 411? Atlanta: Christian Events

This month’s Christian events are dealing with issues, such as Purpose, Passion, Power, Pride and other key topics. Check it out…

3March 2012

But GodMarch 10 at 3pm and 7pm$15 In Advance, $20 At The DoorAtlanta Metropolitan Cathedral, Atlanta3pm: http://butgod1.eventbrite.com7pm: http://butgod2.eventbrite.com

“BUT GOD” the play is a monologue, rap, spoken word, jazzy type of play where God answers the following three questions from our characters:

Find more events at www.The411ATL.com

1. What is the purpose and power of being a real man?

2. What is the purpose and power of being a real woman?

3. What is the purpose of the relationship between them?

Now God isn’t rapping, singing jazz, or performing spoken word but He uses these art forms through the characters to shed new light on who we should really become. While He sits highly on His throne. “BUT GOD” the play will give you God’s clear understanding of your true purpose. So come and witness “GREATNESS.”

Prodigal63 ProductionsDramatist/ PlaywrightGary K. Jones

The goal of the production isfirst and foremost to promote the Gospel through theatrical productions. Our vision is also to introduce kids to the body of Christ through the arts. We are working to have Gospel dance groups, poets, and rappers perform around Georgia and aboard to give our kids a sense of ownership in expressing themselves tastefully. Long term we hope to have competitions in the arts that uplift the Gospel.

We all know we’re losing a lot of our kids due to gangs, drugs, and shootings. Wouldn’t it be nice to have your kids or your neighbor’s kids involved in something positive and uplifting? The kids we raise today are going to be God’s new warriors for tomorrow. We want to build up the Kingdom with young and old.


4March 2012 Find more events at www.The411ATL.com

If Only He Knew…March 16‐17 at 7pm , Doors Open at 6pm | Hopewell Miss. Baptist Church, Norcross16th: Tickets $10 in Advance, $15 at the Door; 17th: Tickets $15 in Advance, $20 at the Doorhttp://tammyparker.eventbrite.com

"IF ONLY HE KNEW” is a gospel stage play written by Detroit native Tammy Parker. In this play the old cliché stands true "What comes around goes around." You will be shocked to see how tables turn with the various male characters depicted in the play. Remember J.J? (the backsliding “preacha”). Come see how his life has changed or has it? Herman the Hermit finds true love. Toothpick has a major decision to make and who can forget Sabrina? Sabrina was left homeless without a penny to spare. How has her life turned around? Is there love in her future? Let's see what happens when she finally faces ex‐husband Robert who left her and her children homeless in the first place. This play is sure to set you on an emotional roller coaster ride as each character’s lives unfold leaving you wondering to yourself the thought “IF ONLY HE KNEW."



The Power of PassionGospel Stage PlayMarch 25, 4:30pm and 7pm | Admission $25Saint Philip’s AME Event Center, Atlantawww.B4Reel.biz

“THE POWER OF PASSION” is a story and message of family restoration when faced with issues of an immoral past, distrust, and a test of faith & love. Fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters will see themselves as the power of passion drives them to circumstances that are not easily resolved.

This musical stage production gives “unique” insight into a world not often recognized, but yet has the most influence in our lives. Through exposure of this often unacknowledged world, open dialogue, and hope in the power of forgiveness everyone is lead into areas they didn’t realize existed.

Why the title “THE POWER OF PASSION” for this play?It is called “The POWER OF PASSION” because passion is something that drives people to do things to the fullest. It can be positive or it can be negative. Whichever, it is the power behind being passionate about doing something causes one to accomplish what they set out to do. When thinking of everything that takes place within this play, you see, hear and feel the power of passion behind everyone's motives.

What central message are you delivering with this play?The central message around this play involves two simple words, forgiveness and restoration.

Interview with Phelicia Brown

Is this your first play? What’s up next/What future plays do you have in mind?This is not my first play. I've done several shows on a centralized scale, but this show I have done several times over the years because it is timeless. The message has transformed lives of people in Michigan, Georgia, Ohio and Florida each time. The songs, written by my husband, Darcel Brown, are fantastic. I personally have never heard "play" songs so catchy and memorable. Maybe I'm biased but they are phenomenal and timeless also. What makes this same play so special this time is because God has surrounded me with an awesome team, B4reel Productions, made up of Darcel Brown, Dwayne Boyd, Bryan and Willetta Buchanan and of course, myself. This team was birthed out of Georgia. Together we have become an unstoppable force with determination to bring the realness to stage plays and even films without compromising quality.

Phelicia is an author, journalist, ghostwriter, playwright, film writer, director and actress. She has been writing for years in various degrees..

She is dedicated to producing quality work, whether on stage, in books, or in film. She is one of the talented writers of the new upcoming children's TV show and live productions, Anthill Live.



The Lost SonApril 22 at 4pm | Rialto Center for the Arts, 80 Forsyth Street NW, Atlanta$25 For tickets in Advance, $30 At the Doorhttp://www.aneyeopeningproduction.com

Producer, writer and director, Sheron Sheats‐Weston is bringing back her amazing stage play the “THE LOST SON” to Atlanta at the Rialto Center for the Arts starring Terrell Carter and featuring Dino Hanson. You don't want to miss it!

The show has a brilliant entertainment formula of comedy, music, drama, love, and hope. Director T.Y. Martin known for his hit stage plays, "Lord Why Me” and “The Color of My Skin” transforms this play into a masterpiece. This production proves to be very powerful with a live band and stellar cast!

Play Synopsis: John (Terrell Carter) never anticipated spending his life searching for himself through the lives of others. Torn between his lavish life of destruction and a jealous brother, he finds salvation. His saving grace is the humility that defeats him as he searches to find his way back to his Father’s (Dino Hanson) unconditional love. This riveting play will change your life and strengthen your faith.

Our Organization: An Eye Opening Production is a non‐profit organization. We are a collaboration of professional business owners who share the same aspirations and desire to teach awareness in our “at risk” communities that will improve on their quality of life and give them the necessary tools to make a healthy lifestyle change. Our mission is to foster culturally diverse, healthy, and positive lifestyles through entertainment, media, nutritional programs and art streams.



Recurring Events

Interview with Adam and Belinda

Why did you and your wife start the 47 Spot?The original motivation for starting The 47 Spot was initiated after spending 3 days in fasting and prayer. During that time I locked myself in a room with water, scriptures and a pallet to sleep on. I was at a place of severe searching for God's direction and guidance concerning the purpose for my life, family and the ministry of Adam and Belinda. After emerging from the room with a peace of mind that God would lead each step I take, a vision for The 47 Spot was birthed. The only clear instructions were to start a Hip Hop night, do it once a month, and have it in Lilburn (the zip code is 30047 hence the reason it is called The “47” Spot).

After hearing these clear instructions it was made evident that the two fold purpose for this event would include networking (specifically artists, producers and the like) and outreach. This was a key element to keep us focused on the purpose. From this foundation of networking and outreach, a much greater purpose continues to unfold.

How long have you being doing it?1 year prior to the first Friday of February 2012 we launched The 47 Spot with a raw faith that felt as though we were jumping into some wild experiment. With nowhere else to hold the event, we invited several artists and others to our house. 30 people showed up for a powerful night that ignited a passion to leap into the unknown. The next month we began holding the event at the PC Repair next to Goodwill on Lawrenceville Highway in Lilburn, GA.

What can you expect from the 47 Spot?The 47 Spot is a Christ centered Hip Hop Night that features a live DJ and an energetic MC known as Arek T. Loyal (an artist in his own right) who uses his unique gift of freestyle to keep the night flowing and full of excitement. It is designed to have the enthusiasm of a concert while including the opportunity for networking among artists and providing top‐notch entertainment to all who attend. The value of this monthly event is priceless, yet the first year was sustained through donations and contributions allowing us to keep the event Free with no cover charge.

Rated E for everybody The 47 Spot features a variety of artists who openly share their Lyrical Testimonies with a modern day Hip Hop Experience through rap, song, and spoken word. The unique vibe of this multi‐ethnic, non‐competitive atmosphere inspires one to excel beyond the limits.

The 47 SpotEvery First Friday| Next Date: Mar 2 from 8pm‐10pmRecommended donation $3 for students, $5 for adultsLocation: 5271 Lawrenceville Highway, Lilburnhttp://the47spot.com



Recurring Events

Lilburn Vibes Every Third Saturday| Next Date: Mar 17 from 7:30‐9:30pmFree Admission | Coffee and delights available for purchaseLocation: 5514 Lawrenceville Highway, Suite A, Lilburnhttp://lilburnvibes.com

Lilburn Vibes is an event by Adam and Belinda creators of The 47 Spot. It is a two hour live music event that is held in a coffee house setting. There will be a variety of talented artists from various genres displaying their talents with an unplugged sound. Lilburn Vibes is a great atmosphere to chill with friends, meet new locals, enjoy some coffee and music, or network with other talents.

Sinless in the CityNext Date: Mar 18 from 1pm‐4pmAdmission $20, price includes buffetSweet Georgia’s Juke Joint, 200 Peachtree Street, Atlantahttp://www.sinlessinthecity.com

Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint and the new WIGO AM 1570 presents , Sinless in the City (SITC), “Sessions” a Sunday Brunch Affair.

Come experience an afternoon of networking, fellowshipping and a place to meet other Christians outside of your church ministries. Since November 2010, SITC Atlanta has provided hundreds of Christians with a memorable experience.

HollalujahEvery Third Friday | Next Date: Mar 16 from 8pm‐12amCheck event website for more information on pricing Soul Factory Theatre, 5567 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountainhttp://hollalujah.eventbrite.com

Hollalujah is a clean comedy experience for people who want the energy of the club without the drama. Featuring some of the nations top comedy, poetry, and musical acts in an environment that is fun for the whole family.

Photo Courtesy of SITC “Cufflinks and Stilettos” event at Juke Joint, 2/12/12



Other Upcoming Christian Events

One Sunday Morning, Gospel Stage PlayRialto Center for the Arts, Atlanta | Tickets start at $30 | www.fjjproductions.com“One Sunday Morning” is a powerful, moving story of a family’s struggle with the loss of a Father, Husband and a church struggling with the loss of its Pastor during the most joyous time of the year! Watch out for the Grim Reaper, he is full of surprises yet. God has the final say! “One Sunday Morning” will make you laugh and cry.

Mar 3

Soweto Gospel ChoirFox Theatre, Atlanta | Tickets start at $65 | www.sowetogospelchoir.comSoweto Gospel Choir was formed to celebrate the unique and inspirational power of African Gospel music. The 52‐strong choir, under the direction of Beverly Bryer, draws on the best talent from the many churches in and around Soweto. The choir is dedicated to sharing the joy of faith through music with audiences around the world.

Mar 4

Everyday Missions Book Release Party1297 Jonesboro Rd, Atlanta | Free Admission| http://everydaymissions.eventbrite.comCome celebrate the release of Leroy Barber's new book, “Everyday Missions: How Ordinary People Can Change the World.” Featuring live music by Ra Mendoza and complimentary hors d'oeuvres and drinks. Join us as we kick off the Everyday Missions national book tour with a book release party and book signing! Space is limited, so RSVP today!

Mar 8

A Heart that Forgives, Gospel Stage PlayMilton Center Theater, Alpharetta| Advance Tickets $10 and $15 at the Door http://ahtf.eventbrite.comBeyond Faith Ministries present, “A Heart That Forgives” a Gospel stage play written by Ebony King and Directed by Daryl Wilson. Featuring Gospel Hip Hop Artist, Marc Griffin and NHIM Praise Team.

Mar 17‐18

Man Up Conference and Man Up Concert FinaleGeorgia World Congress Center | Early registration $60| www.manup2012.comReachLife Ministries in partnership with Reach Records are hosting, Man Up, a new campaign, calling men in the hip‐hop culture to true biblical manhood through repentance and faith in Christ. The conference will consist of 3 General Sessions and 4 workshops ‐ each covering one of the issues that we believe are the biggest needs to be addressed in manhood today.

Apr 13‐14

Women’s History Month

What’s the 411? Atlanta: Women’s History Month

Check out the Atlanta area Women’s History Month events, which are good examples of Sisterhood in Action.

15th Annual Black Herstory National Conference and Awards BanquetConference: March 30th from 2pm‐10pm | Free Admission Emory Univ. Whitehead Biomedical Research AuditoriumBanquet: March 31st, Dinner at 6:30 pm | Tickets $40Peachtree Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, Atlanta www.blackherstory.org

This year theme is “Regaining Our Footing: Global Economic, Cultural and Political Development.” The National Black HerstoryTask Force, Inc., the host of this annual event, is an award winning non profit providing vehicles to chronicle and celebrate the legacies of women of African descent worldwide.


Conference ScheduleFriday, March 30th, Emory University

2:00pm‐2:30pm Opening Ceremony: Greetings by Shelia Worthy Paris and MozellaGalloway of the National Black Herstory Task Force and representatives from Emory.

2:35pm‐3:30pm Politics in My America, Janis F. Kearney: Ms. Kearney is a publisher, author and literary advocate who served as the first United States Presidential Diarist (1995‐200l).

3:45pm‐4:45pm Black Women in Business: The Future, In or Out, Up or Down, Juliet E. K. Walker: Ms. Dr. Walker is the founder and director of the Center for Black Business History, Entrepreneurship and Technology.

5:00pm‐5:50pm Unlocking Injustice‐Redemption for the Formerly Incarcerated, Letreese Desantis: Ms. Desantis is the Executive Director of Minorities for Equality in Education, Employment, Liberty and Justice (MEEELJ) in Austin, Texas.

6:25pm‐8:00pm Kola Boof on the Living Woman: Ms. Boof is an Egyptian‐ Sudanese American writer, poet and television writer. She is the author of several novels and poetry collections.

Dinner at 6:30pm 2012 Black Herstory Awards Banquet: Angela Harrington Rice, Producer and Host of AIB TV will be the Mistress of Ceremonies . Musical entertainment provided by Harold Holloway & Co. and Drop Entertainment’s Major Chapman. Poetry and Spoken Word will be given by Vertasha’ (aka The Hon. Geronda Carter, Superior Court Judge, Clayton County), and Adam Williams.

Sat, March 31st, Peachtree Baptist

Women’s History Month


Everyday people responses to…


In honor of Women’s History Month, which woman public figure (past or present) do you most admire and why?

“Jill Scott is the woman I greatly admire because she is soul in itself. She has the deepest messages, yet so simple and soothing and she sings to melodies that can catch a gold fish!!”

Maurice, Massage Therapist

“Michelle Obama for being a source of strength to her husband, a positive role model and mother to her daughters; while making an impact by supporting causes like fighting childhood obesity in America and supporting families of our men and women in armed services.”

Audrey, Program Manager

“Toni Morrison‐‐I am always blown away by her writing style. My favorite quote ever is from her book, "The Bluest Eyes": "Love is never any better than the lover. Wicked people love wickedly, violent people love violently, weak people love weakly, stupid people love stupidly...“ Context for the quote: the main character is raped by her dad. Yet he is the only one who truly loved her.”

Venante, Project Manager

“Two women come to mind… Michelle Obama… and a woman that somewhat ‘saved’ my life many times over by becoming a woman of courage, honor and beauty and wholeness within myself. Joyce Meyer has done this not only for me, but for millions of other women around the world just by sharing her real life stories. My life has mirrored hers in many, many, aspects, and her lectures and books have brought me to a place of peace in Christ.”

Pam, Educator

“Hillary Clinton. In the face of adversity she rose, took on the world, honored her husband and her marriage. Today, she is a strong tower in the political arena of the world.”

Marcia, Entrepreneur

Note: Above responses do not reflect the views of What’s the 411? Atlanta, LLC



Time to Heal: The Art of LeiSha StarchiaThursday, March 1, 2012 – Sunday, April 29, 2012Time to Heal is LeiSha Starchia’s artistic autobiography chronicling an eighteen month period with a diagnosed schizophrenic and her inner transformation. LeiSha Starchia will facilitate an Artist’s Talk at the opening event for this exhibit on Thursday, March 1, 2012 at 4:00 p.m.

She Writes/She Reads Photographic ExhibitThursday, March 1 – Sunday, April 29She Reads, by renowned photographer Sue Ross features photographic portraits of some of the most compelling and inspiring African American female authors across various genres. Ross is an artist and cultural worker using the medium of photography to document the social, political and cultural experiences of the African American community.

Geographies of the Haitian Diaspora (Editor) Dr. Regine O. Jackson, Discussion and Book Signing Thursday, March 08 at 7:00 p.m.In collaboration with Emory University, the Auburn Avenue Research Library will host Regine O. Jackson, who will discuss her latest publication Geographies of the Haitian Diaspora. This work is an innovative scholarly account on global non‐geographic sites of Haitian community building and the Haitian experience in the Diaspora.

Women of Color Arts and Film FestivalSaturday, March 17 at 12:00 p.m.In collaboration with Lyalode Productions ,the Auburn Avenue Research Library will host the 2012 Women of Color Art and Film Festival (WOCAF). Now in its seventh year, the WOCAF exclusively celebrates the artistic talents of women of color as filmmakers and visual artists.

Do I Dare Disturb the Universe? From the Projects to Prep School by Charlise Lyles, Discussion and Book SigningThursday, March 22, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.Author, Charlise Lyles will discuss her latest publication, Do I Dare Disturb the Universe?: From the Projects to Prep School. This work is a poignant memoir that chronicles Lyles’ experiences with neighborhood violence, race riots, and transitioning from a special needs class at an urban school, located in East Cleveland, to receiving a scholarship to attend a preparatory school in the affluent community of Gates Mill, a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio.

Women’s History Month SymposiumWednesday, March 28, 2012 and Thursday, March 29, 2012 In collaboration with Georgia State University’s Department of African Studies, the Auburn Avenue Research Library will host the 2012 Women’s History Month Symposium. The scope of this symposium looks at the historical contributions of women of African descent on freedom, social justice, and community development. This event will also address popular culture representations of Black women and contemporary social issues confronting women of African descent.

Auburn Avenue Research Library101 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta | www.afpls.org/aarl

Sisterhood in Action:Faith Walkers Empowerment Group for Women



Spotlight on a women’s group that involves everyday women working together to support each others’ dreams.

Who We Are: Faith Walkers Empowerment Group for Women was started in 2006. Faith Walkers is a spiritual empowerment and networking group designed to help women achieve greatness for the Kingdom of God. We take the word of God and apply it to our lives in order to be a "living testimony." Women from all walks of life come together to form a support system that ensures every woman's success according to her faith walk.

We offer:• Spiritual Empowerment• Mentorship• Personal Coaching• Financial Planning• Resource Referrals

Past Retreats

2007: Women Get Out of the Boat‐ Empowered women to achieve greatness for themselves and their families.

2008: Live Your Dreams – We gave one (1) $500 Empowerment Grant and four (4) $150 Empowerment Grants for women starting their businesses.

2009: Experience It – Attendees experienced "Yolanda's Favorite Things" just like Oprah's Favorite Things. We gave away shopping trips, spa packages, and airline tickets.

2010: Live On Top Of The World ‐We motivated women to never settle for less than the best. We had a ‘girls night’ slumber party in a penthouse suite.

2011: M3‐My Miracle Moment ‐ God performs miracles everyday and we all have miracles in store. We had a great luncheon, awesome speakers, and a trip to Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville, GA for morning glory.

2012: Working It Out for Me: I’m Worth It! Coming Sep 21‐23, 2012

For more information on Faith Walkers Empowerment Group for Women, visit: www.ydministries.com or contact Yolanda Dupree at [email protected].

Founder, Yolanda Dupree

Mrs. Dupree is an author, songwriter, fashion designer, Christian life coach and inspirational/ motivational speaker. She has been married for 17 years to Michael and have four children.

Why did you start the Faith Walkers Empowerment Group for Women? I started this group because I believe that there is greatness inside of every woman. It is vitally important that we discover and showcase it to the world. We were each created with a purpose and in order to give God glory with our lives we must manifest it. I also believe that it is important to support the vision and heart's desires of women. There should never be a woman that struggles from no support and guidance. We have to be willing to help each other as much as we can and be the sideline cheerleaders.


GWEC is Georgia’s most powerful forum for women to empower themselves, their families and communities. The primary goal of GWEC is to provide valuable information women can use in their daily lives. GWEC will be held in conjunction with “The Georgia Plus America Pageant (GPA).” GPA believes in healthy competition that promotes individuality, confidence and overall achievement. The conference will include extraordinary keynote speakers, highly qualified panelists and relevant celebrity guests.


The Georgia Women’s Empowerment Conference (GWEC)April 27th‐28th | Conference Admission: $99 (includes pageant)Pageant Finals Only: April 28th, Admission $35Hilton Garden Inn – Stonecrest, Lithonia LocationConference: http://gwec.eventbrite.com Pageant: http://missgeorgiaplusamerica‐eorg.eventbrite.com

Interview with Noel Booker, Executive Director of Georgia Plus America

Why do you feel we need a Georgia Plus America Pageant? I feel the need to make sure women are happy within themselves, which means empowering them with information beneficial to their day to day existence. We plan to empower women which will make them better wives for their husbands, parents to their children and better community leaders.

What makes this Pageant unique? We are committed to the plus size woman. We believe that all women are beautiful, inside and out and deserve a chance to promote those causes closest to her heart with a title worthy of her representation. The Miss Plus AmericaTM Pageant System is an organization devoted to celebrating the essence of the full‐figured woman. Our Miss Plus AmericaTM titleholders are women with uncompromising morals and a desire to serve her community through volunteerism. They are women who shine on stage and are the perfect representation of poise and grace.

Why should all women of all shapes attend? Our conference will provide valuable information that all women can use in their lives. Our keynote luncheon will feature Georgia State Representative Dar’shun Kendrick. Our panel discussion will include successful and credible leaders of our community. The Pamper Session will help the women feel special. Then imagine all of these women supporting the delegates at the Georgia Plus America Pageant Finals.

The Pink and Black BallApril 21st 7pm‐10pm | Individual Admission: $551818 Club, 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy #300, Duluthwww.iambeautiful.org

I Am BEAUTIFUL is an award‐winning national leadership development and mentoring program dedicated to “Empowering girls and women to live Brave, Energetic, Assertive, Unique, Tenacious, Important, Fabulous, Unequaled, and Loved (BEAUTIFUL) lives inside and out.TM” Our life‐enriching programs build self‐esteem and leadership capability in females of all ages and stages, supporting the achievement of physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and economic well‐being. I Am BEAUTIFUL is a program of I Am, Inc., a 501(c)3 organization operating in Georgia, South Carolina, and Metropolitan D.C./Maryland/Virginia.

Entertainment

What’s the 411? Atlanta: Entertainment

Atlanta entertainment has it all‐plays, dance, concerts and much more! Check it out…

It’s a Thin Line…March 25, April 1st and 8th at 8:00 pmGeneral Admission $10King Plow Arts Center, 887 W. Marietta, Atlantawww.ljegroup.com

LJEG is dedicated to opening minds and healing souls through words; music & theatre. We believe that through every pain, joy comes in the form of lyrical expression.

“IT’S A THIN LINE” goes in depth on choices that were made during hardships and the actions and consequences that have to be faced. Eight women tell their stories of hurt while the accusers are given their chance to explain their side of the story as well. During It's A Thin Line, you will laugh, cry and cry some more...but more importantly...you will begin YOUR healing process.

Starring, Bridgette Levi, Doug Berry, Candace Nicole, Wiley Battle, Terese Menifee, Kelvin Rowe, Da Da Lewis, MD The Great, Justyn Joy, Tee Compton, Gerrod Huggins, Journee, & Terry Bello.

Ballethnic Jazzy Sleeping BeautyMarch 22‐25 check event website for timesGeneral public tickets: $39Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Techwww.ferstcenter.gatech.edu

Jazzy Sleeping Beauty is based on the classic fairytale with a jazzy twist choreographed by Waverly T. Lucas II. Act I features the original Tchaikovsky score and Act II features a jazzy music score composed by Mark Lomax.

Founded in 1990 by Nena Gilreath and Waverly T. Lucas II, both former members of Dance Theatre of Harlem and Atlanta Ballet, Ballethnic's goal is to inform, educate, and entertain through dance.


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Chinua Hawk AlbumRelease PartyMarch 8, doors open at 7:30pm, show at 8:30 pmTickets $10 in advance, $15 day of showCenter Stage Vinyl Theater, Atlantawww.centerstage‐atlanta.com

Singer, Songwriter, Entrepreneur… just some of the words that can be used to describe Chinua Hawk.

Born and raised in New Jersey, and now a local favorite in Atlanta, Chinua considers himself a citizen of the world. “My music is for everyone. I listen to everything, all kinds of music, so it comes through in my writing.” states Chinua.

As a performer with hundreds of performances under his belt, Chinua has been captivating audiences all over the world with the simplicity and class that has defined his career. He connects with his audience on a personal level

by sharing his personal stories and using them to inspire others. Chinua has released three independent CDs and has just completed his fourth CD, produced and arranged by Joseph Patrick Moore. Along with his extensive touring record, Chinua also boasts CD sales not only in the US, but also in France, England, Japan, Switzerland and Canada.

Chinua’s other accomplishments include: winning the Billboard Magazine/Disc Makers Independent Music World Series beating out over 1,000 bands with just a guitar player to accompany him. In addition, he was named the APCA Multi‐Cultural Artist of the year in 2005 and 2006, APCA Best Cultural Fine Arts Artist in 2008, APCA Performer of the Year 2008, and APCA Best Male Solo Performer 2009.



Is Uncle Pete Really Dead?April 7 at 6:00 pmTickets $20 in advance, $25 at the doorPorter Sanford III Performing Arts Center, Decaturhttp://isunclepetereallydead.eventbrite.com

“IS UNCLE PETE REALLY DEAD?” is a comedy stage play written and directed by Sherry Bell‐Bradley also the writer/director of the hit stage play "Who Killed Uncle Pete?" This play is an easy follow; and is designed for the enjoyment of the entire family.

Synopsis: In 2009 Uncle Pete showed up at the McCloud family reunion uninvited, insulted several family members, and ended up dead. Now strange things have started happening which leads you to wonder is Uncle Pete really dead?a

About the Writer and Director: Sherry Bell‐Bradley is a native of Greenville, Mississippi. This innovative, new playwright is surely making a name for herself in the theatrical productions industry. Once again, Mrs. Bell‐

Bradley is collaborating with notable actors who have appeared in commercials nationwide, box office hits, popular stage plays, and an Oscar award winning movie. a

Mrs. Bell‐Bradley’s first major production, “Who Killed Uncle Pete?” shocked the industry by selling out at the 14th Street Playhouse in Atlanta in June 2009; then subsequently in Jan 2010 and Oct 2010 at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in Decatur.

When asked how she feels the public will respond to her new production, she stated, “Once again, I’m just stepping out on faith. The messages in this play will reach someone and if only one person, then I’ll be happy for that. I have received an overwhelming response from the public in the past and in the present. Hopefully, my supporters will once again give me the opportunity to entertain them.”




Other Upcoming Entertainment

Mar 3

Mar 3Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton MarsalisAtlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta | Tickets $30‐$90| Show starts at 8pmwww.atlantasymphony.orgWynton Marsalis has been described as the most outstanding jazz musician and trumpeter of his generation, as one of the world's top classical trumpeters, as a big band leader in the tradition of Duke Ellington, a brilliant composer, a devoted advocate for the Arts and a tireless and inspiring educator. He carries these distinctions well. His life is a portrait of discipline, dedication, sacrifice, and creative accomplishment.

Mar 3

47th Anniversary of “Bloody Sunday”King Center, 449 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta | $35 per seatTour will leave at 7pm and return approximately at 7pmwww.thekingcenter.orgThe Voting Rights Campaign, which culminated on “Bloody Sunday,” is credited with educating millions of Americans about discrimination in voting, persuading President Johnson and congress to enact the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which lead to a dramatic increase in African American political empowerment. Tour highlights include: • Worship service in a historic church, in Selma, Alabama• Pilgrimage to the memorial site marking the martyrdom of Mrs. Viola Gregg Liuzzo• Re‐enactment of the march Across the Edmund Pettis Bridge ‐ Selma Bridge Jubilee• Video on Dr. King’s leadership in the campaign and how it lead to the Voting Rights Act of

1965

Mar 4

Atlanta Blues FestivalAtlanta Civic Center, Atlanta | Tickets $48.50 or $58.50| Show starts at 7pmwww.atlantaciviccenter.com8th annual Blues Festival featuring artists: Mel Waiters, Sir Charles Jones, Millie Jackson, Denise LaSalle, Shirley Brown, Theodis Ealey and Clarence Carter.

Jumping the BroomArt on 5 Gallery, 2001 MLK Drive, Suite 530, AtlantaAdvance tickets $10, $20 at the door | 1pm‐9pmwww.thegoodhairshop.com/#!eventsThis wedding expo is for the bride seeking some cultural and tradition African influenced flair to their special day. Whether it be traditional African drummers, African inspired wedding designs or special natural hair designs, you can find it here at the Jumping The Broom Wedding Expo.



Other Upcoming Entertainment

Mar 7‐Apr 8

Mar 4

Flyin’ West by Pearl CleageTheatre in the Square, 11 Whitlock Ave, MariettaCheck event website for pricing and timeswww.theatreinthesquare.comAtlanta playwright Cleage examines the lives, memories and hopes of four female former slaves expecting a better life in the West away from the uncertainties of the post Civil War South. But their new surroundings are not free of danger and unexpected turns. The New York Times called it “gripping…a paean to women.”

Jazz on the SquareEarl Smith Strand Theatre, Marietta| Tickets $48.50 or $58.50| Show starts at 7pmwww.smoothjazzgrooves.comSmooth Jazz on the Square Series 2012 begins with artist Althea Rene with Jeff Sparks. Althea Rene is regarded among many as one of the nation’s most exciting solo improvisational flautists. Her latest CD release “No Restrictions” has a unique urban contemporary flavor with a jazzy/R&B twist.

Mar 10

Harlem Globetrotters17th: Phillips Arena, Atlanta at 7:00 pm| Full price tickets start at $2118th: The Arena at Gwinnett Center, Duluth at 2:00 pm | Full price Tickets start at $21www.harlemglobetrotters.comThe world famous Harlem Globetrotters bring their ridiculous basketball skills and amazing athletes.

Mar17‐18

Incognito Center Stage Theater, Atlanta | Doors at 7pm, Show at 8pm | Tickets $42.00‐49.50www.centerstage‐atlanta.comIncognito, the well known British band and a part of the acid jazz movement will be in concert featuring Maysa with special guest Khari Cabral.

Apr 6

Black Girls AnthemGeorgia World Congress Center at 8pm | Tickets $36http://blackgirlsanthem.eventbrite.comAn original Choreopoem written by Melany J. Silas. This dynamic and inspiring choreopoemweaves together drama, poetry, dance and music to explore the varied voices of black women, relationships, sisterhood, motherhood, legacy , self‐empowerment and more!

Apr 20

Documents

March Issue of What's the 411? Atlanta