February is Black History Month and there are numerous events and things to-do in Downtown Cary to set aside some intentional time to, “celebrate with us the contributions of African Americans to our community, state, nation, and world.”
Here are a few options:
Throughout the month of February, The Cary Theater is highlighting a few African American performing artists that have made contributions to the diversity of Hollywood productions. You’ve seen these titans but might not know their stories. Come see the movies they were featured in and learn a little bit more about these Unsung Titans of the ’70s & ’80s at The Cary. For general inquiries contact: The Cary Theater (919) 462-2051
Tamara Dobson starring in CLEOPATRA JONES, 2/2 & 2/5
Nichelle Nichols featured in STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN, 2/9 & 2/12
Gregory Hines starring in WHITE NIGHTS , 2/16 & 2/19
Robert Townsend featured actor and director ofHOLLYWOOD SHUFFLE, 2/23 & 2/26
The Future of Black History: Panel Discussion Moderated by Tru Pettigrew
Date: 02/18/2023 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Cary Arts Center
Celebrating Our Heroes
Applause! Theatrical Performance
Date: 02/18/2023 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Cary Arts Center
Join Applause! Cary Youth Theatre in celebrating the contributions of African Americans to our community, nation, and world in a theatrical performance. Enjoy the African folktales of Anansi and discover both historical and contemporary heroes in this celebratory experience.
This is a free family event. Open to the public, no tickets or registrations required.
For general inquires contact the Cary Arts Center (919) 469-4069
The Face of Emmett Till: Symposium
Date: 02/19/2023 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: Cary Arts Center
In May of 2023, Pure Life Theatre Company will perform the theatrical production of “The Face of Emmett Till” by Mamie Till Mobley. The production team for the project is working to educate people with regard to the story’s historical relevance and continued impact. As a part of the Town of Cary’s Black History & African American Appreciation Month celebrations, the company will offer the following symposium style workshops for individuals to feel, learn and experience the history, courage, and emotion pervasive in the piece and its incredible historical relevance. The symposium is offered for free however the production team would greatly appreciate a $10.00 donation towards the spring production.
Sneak Peak at some of the workshops available:
Viewpoints: This is an interactive workshop that will explore specific aesthetics used in the show
History, Truth, & Courage Panel Discussion: Featuring Guest Speakers: Dr. Ty West and Dr. Joyce Russell
Pure Life Theatre Meet the Cast Reception: Meet some of the actors from The Face of Emmett Till and learn how the production team is preparing for this massive historical reflection.
Need more information: Pure Life Theatre Company
Phone 919-839-9505
Email: purelifetheatre@gmail.com
An Evening with Grandmaster Victor Moore
Date: 02/24/2023 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: The Cary Theater
Calling all Martial Arts Fans! Spend an evening with one of the Forgotten Fury!
We will explore the contributions of African Americans to the progression of martial arts in the USA. Join us for a fun and educational evening featuring:
- A Kung Fu demonstration by the Chinese Shao-Lin Center of Raleigh
- The exclusive theatrical premiere of the documentary Grandmaster: The Vic Moore Story
- Participate in a live conversation with 4x Karate Champion, Vic Moore
- A special Q & A session with the film director, Christopher Everett
Doors open at 6:30pm. The event is free, but tickets are required
For more information: Contact The Cary Theater, (919) 462-2051.
Kids Flicks: Celebrating Black Stories (Not Rated)
Date: 02/26/2023 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: The Cary Theater
Black stories take the spotlight to highlight films that share the joy, determination, resilience, and complexity of being Black and young. Explore a range of genres and styles in a program that spans the globe. English, Portuguese, Luganda, Subtitles. Recommended Ages: 9+.
From our friends at the Town of Cary:
Are you a community organization or nonprofit interested in producing a future Black History & African American Appreciation Month (BHAAM) program or event? If so, please contact our Black History & African American Appreciation Month Coordinator Kim Roberts at Kim.Roberts@townofcary.org