Friday, May 8, 2009
Weekend Events Round-Up: May 8-10
Posted by Erica Jackson on Fri, May 8, 2009 at 11:45 AM
Compared to recent weekends, this one seems a bit tame. We like to think of it as the calm before the Spoleto storm. But there's still plenty of stuff to do. Here are our top picks.
Broaden your cultural horizons at Greek Fest this Friday through Sunday. (Everyone on the City Paper paper staff can't wait to swarm the Greek Orthodox Church for lunch today!) There will be dancing, authentic music, and of course mouth-watering food like gyros and baklava. On Saturday, get a taste of Jamaica at the first concert of the Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series at Wannamaker County Park. De Lions of Jah are the featured act.
Sports fans: the RiverDogs take on the Tourists Friday and Saturday. Friday is red shirt night (wear a red shirt and get $1 off your ticket) and there will be fireworks after the game. Saturday is Salute the Slinky night — the first 1,000 fans through the gate will get a slinky. Plus there will be entertainment from the "Human Slinky." Intriguing. Also, the Stingrays have made it to the American Conference and they want your support. They've got games on Saturday and Monday.
The free Movie in Marion Square this Friday is Hellboy 2.
If you missed them at Charleston Comedy Festival (or if you saw them and loved them), check out Atlanta-based comedy troupe Einstein Meets Elvis on Friday at 10 p.m.
Saves the Day, Nightmare of You, and Alkaline Trio are playing the Music Farm Friday night. Kings of Leon are at the Coliseum Sunday! For something a bit more free, check out the Blues by the Sea event at Freshfields Village on Saturday.
Lastly, dog lovers, don't miss the Pizza Party Night at Three Dog Bakery on Saturday. D'allesandro's will have pizza for humans, while Three Dog will have pup pizza. Yum. Benefits a local animal rescue.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Stingrays in Conference Finals — Games Saturday and Monday
Posted by Erica Jackson on Thu, May 7, 2009 at 3:42 PM
Did you think hockey season was over? Well think again. The S.C. Stingrays have made it to the American Conference, and they've got two home games coming up. Here's the lowdown from the Stingrays' website:
South Carolina (42-23-6) finished off Florida in a six-game series Tuesday night (4-3 in overtime) and also knocked off Charlotte in a six-game affair in the opening round of the playoffs. It is the second straight season that these clubs have met in the American Conference Finals. The Stingrays have won the Kelly Cup twice (1997 and 2001). It is the fourth trip to the conference finals for South Carolina and the third trip for Cincinnati. The Stingrays are 2-1 in conference finals series having captured the Kelly Cup in 1997 and 2001 while the Cyclones are 1-1 having defeated South Carolina on their way to the Kelly Cup in 2008 and losing in seven games to eventual Kelly Cup winner Atlantic City in 2003.
Support the 'Rays as they take to the ice Sat., May 10 and Mon., May 11 at 7:05 p.m. at the North Charleston Coliseum. Call (843) 744-2248 to order tickets.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Putter's Paradise Opens Thursday
Posted by Erica Jackson on Wed, May 6, 2009 at 11:33 AM
We don't envy Myrtle Beach too much — Charleston's beaches are pretty rad. But one thing we're missing is some good ol' fashioned putt putt. Mini golf options are sadly limited in the Lowcountry, but this week we're getting our very own Putter's Paradise on Folly Beach. The eco-friendly mini golf course, owned by Planet Follywood's DJ Rich and City Paper's Brandin Dubos, has been open for a few weeks but is hosting its grand opening on Thurs., May 7. Rounds of golf on the classic-style 18-hole course will be just $1 all day. The green business uses zero electricity, solar energy, and recycled pieces of construction materials were used throughout the course. Hole themes include crab traps, a lighthouse, save the turtles, water obstacles, a windmill, rock quarries, and solar tiki torches. Putter's Paradise is located at 27 Center St. The grand opening celebration lasts from 3-8 p.m. Call ahead for a tee time: (843) 830-9822.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Uno de Mayo
Posted by Erica Jackson on Mon, May 4, 2009 at 1:46 PM
The Battle of Puebla was properly commemorated at the Charleston Cinco de Mayo Festival on Friday night at the Visitor’s Center Bus Shed. Guests enjoyed authentic Mexican cuisine from El Dorado and Los Reyes and washed it all down with Cuervo margaritas and Dos Equis drafts. But the food and drink was little more than an afterthought. The focus of the event was dancing, particularly salsa. DJ Luigi Bravo of Latin Groove kept the dance floor packed with young and old alike. Dancing company Buen Aché performed traditional Afro-Latino dances on-stage. Amateurs did their best impressions of Latino pop stars as more experienced dancing partners made the moves from Dirty Dancing look like something out of a high school gymnasium. The only interruption to the pulsating movement of the crowd was for the Dancing with the Local Stars competition, which saw four local media mavens vie for bragging rights — Tara Lynn from Channel 2 and Ali Orozco were the winners. Proceeds from the event benefitted the Ryan White HIV care program at Roper St. Francis Healthcare. Check out a few more pics on our Flickr page. —Angela Hanyak 
Scene: Surfers Healing 5K
Posted by Erica Jackson on Mon, May 4, 2009 at 10:27 AM
Close to a hundred runners and walkers made strides down East Arctic Avenue on Folly Beach Saturday for the Surfers Healing 5K Run, benefiting the surf camp held by the group each summer. Letting participants register up until minutes before the race began, organizers quickly ran out of T-shirts that were ordered to go along with registration packets. Sopagna Eap of Johns Island claimed a first place finish with a time of 17:52, followed by Randy Wiggins of Summerville who won the overall road race for the male category at 17:55. After the 3.1-mile competition on land, a few brave souls entered the surf for a 200-yard Rebel Yell Dash and half-mile stand-up paddleboard race. Barbara Weaver and Kai Dilling (below) placed first in the stand-up paddle race for the female and male categories. Weaver also took first for the combined competition for female and Christian Gaeta took the same title for the males. Both athletes claimed tiki-trophies for their successful ventures. Throughout the rest of the day, athletes and families enjoyed a street festival with jump castle, live music, petting farm, jewelry sales, and a silent auction. Another big winner walked away with a $1,600 paddleboard donated by Ocean Surf Shop for the price of a $5 raffle ticket. All proceeds will help fund the Charleston-based Surfers Healing summer camp, which brings professional surfers from across the country to work with autistic children for a unique and effective form of therapy. —Cara Kelly
Friday, May 1, 2009
Addlestone Rave x2: Like Caddyshack 2
Posted by Erica Jackson on Fri, May 1, 2009 at 1:04 PM
Last night the students of College of Charleston recreated the flash rave, that epic event that no one thought would ever happen in the rotunda of Addlestone Library. Like last time, there were people dressed up in costumes (even a gorilla suit), sweaty bodies were lifted up and carried over the crowd, paper was thrown from the second floor balconies, "C OF C" was chanted, and there was a lot of techno music. Well-organized and rallied by student body president Seaton Brown, the rave was a valiant effort to reenact the awesomeness that occurred during finals last semester. The thing is, a good thing like a solitary and spontaneous flash rave in a college library cannot be replicated. If it's not spontaneous, it's lost its luster, and if it's mostly comprised of a bunch of drunk freshmen who were never planning on studying that night, it's just annoying to those studying for finals the next day. Granted, the original flash rave is College of Charleston's claim to fame, aside from shrimp running on treadmills. Yeah, It got media coverage. It even made it into Maxim. It's just kind of like the sequel to a really good movie — no matter how hard you try, if the first one was stellar, the next just ain't gonna cut it. Now, don't get me wrong. The rave last night was definitely a rousing good time for everyone who joined, and in terms of size and energy levels, it met the bar and then some. Shit was bananas. People were leaving with smiles plastered on their red, sweaty faces. Wallets, phones, and toenails were left back in the crazy pit, but it's OK, because for most it was worth it. My premonition is that next time, there will be a blockade of angry librarians, public safety officers, and cracked-out studiers ready to put an end to Flash Rave 3 and willing to put up more of a fight than just keeping the lights on. But they'll probably be trampled, too. After all, majority always wins, especially when it comes to ravers. —Hadley Lyman
Weekend Events Round-Up
Posted by Erica Jackson on Fri, May 1, 2009 at 11:33 AM
May, arguably the very best month to be in Charleston, has arrived and with it a jam-packed calendar. Get off your duff and make the most of it. Here are our picks for the weekend.
First off, visit Marion Square this afternoon for the House of Hope event. Jimihatt, John Pundt, and Charlie McAlister will be building a house to bring attention to the plight of the homeless. They'll need your help around 3:30 p.m., when you can help them paint it. Also enjoy music from Quentin Baxter.
Artsy types, head down to the French Quarter for the art walk on Friday from 5-8 p.m. Galleries will be open late, offering wine, hors d'oeuvres, and many opening receptions with artists in-house. There's also a huge array of events going on at the North Charleston Arts Festival over the next week or so, with the bulk of events happening Saturday and Sunday. If you're a local, don't miss Spoleto Saturday at the Gaillard from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. There you can get great deals on tickets and vintage merchandise. On Sunday, check out the free Fast & French anniversary party at City Gallery from 2-9 p.m. — enjoy food, music, and art representing the restaurant's 25 years in business.
There are lots of festival-type events this weekend on all sides of the peninsula, great for families and music lovers. Enjoy authentic Mexican music (and food and margs, of course) at the Cinco de Mayo celebration at the Bus Shed tonight. On Saturday, head to the Mellow Mushroom in Mt. Pleasant for their free grand opening Backyard Bash with live music and activities. Up in North Charleston at Noisette, the United Artists for Hope Music and Arts Festival features lots of bands, arts and crafts, kids activities, and more. ($15/adv.) Downtown at Redux, the free Holy City Craft Bazaar features handmade crafts from local artists as well as cool music. On Sunday, Hometeam BBQ hosts the Allstar Americana Jam and Crawfish Boil with music from bands like Lindsay Holler, Jonathan Gray (of Jump), Michael Trent, and more ($12).
If you're an early bird, check out the Dragon Boat Festival at Brittlebank Park on Saturday — it starts at 8:30 a.m. You can check out cultural performances, and of course the races that happen every five minutes. Another early event is the Surfers Healing 5K at Folly Beach on Saturday. Either participate or watch folks run, then splash around in the water, then enjoy the street fair on Center Street with music from Jupiter's Garden.
Animal lovers, don't miss the free Dog Show at Marion Square taking place during the farmers market. Puppies and costumed dogs galore. Also support Pet Helpers at the Cookout on King at O'Malley's on Saturday from 2-5 p.m. ($10).
Film buffs, check out the free Lowcountry Indie Shorts in Park Circle on Saturday. There will be two showings of different short films, each from a Lowcountry filmmaker. After each set of films, filmmakers will participate in a discussion of their work.
Check the Seersucker and Stilettos blog for muchos upcoming fashion events including trunk shows and sales galore.
Update: Just found out that Better Than Ezra is playing at the Windjammer tonight. Tickets are $25.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Art Openings Thursday and Friday
Posted by Erica Jackson on Thu, Apr 30, 2009 at 10:29 AM
Charleston's French Quarter Art Walk is coming up, and in convenient conjunction, so are the openings of lots of new exhibitions around town. The Art Walk, held the first Friday of most months, see the art galleries of Charleston's historic French Quarter staying open late with new shows, snackage, and plenty of schmoozing. Opening a bit early on Thursday night is 1968 Controversy and Hope: Iconic images by James Karales at the Rebekah Jacob Gallery on Lower King. The exhibit comprises over 50 moving black and white photographs taken during the Civil Rights movement. Also that night (and practically next door), Plum Elements hosts the reception for Our Artful Moment, a juried exhibit that shows the gathering, the celebration, and a "once in forever" mood that infused a nation and drew the eyes of the world. The reception on Thursday marks the 100th day of the Obama administration in office.
A little off the beaten path on Meeting Street, Cone 10 Studios hosts the opening reception of Men·tor, an exhibit honoring the historical relationship between master and apprentice in the realm of ceramics. The studio artists of Cone 10 will be displaying their work alongside that of the mentors who have guided them over the years. Closer to Broad Street and all the action, check out works by Joan Dumouchel at Martin Gallery, Mickey Williams at Carolina Galleries, Susan Miller Simon at Nina Liu, Rodney Huckaby at Coco Vivo, and many more. Check out the full list of openings here. —Hadley Lyman
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
House of Hope Friday
Posted by Erica Jackson on Wed, Apr 29, 2009 at 2:53 PM
The plight of the homeless is sadly a popular topic in the news these days, and one local organization is looking to make a difference in Charleston. The Humanities Foundation hosts the House of Hope event on May 1 in Marion Square. The event seeks to bring attention to the growing needs of people who are homeless or at risk of losing their home. Artist John Pundt, Guerrilla Cuisine founder jimihatt, and musician Charlie McALister will build a house from cardboard on the King Street side of the park. At 3:30 p.m., people are invited to use the house as a giant canvas on which to paint their interpretation of the issue of homelessness. The finished product will be on view for a week. While volunteers paint, Quentin Baxter will perform a benefit concert. Besides drawing attention to the needs of the homeless, the event will also serve as a fund-raiser for the foundation’s ShelterNet program, which provides one-time emergency financial assistance for low-income individuals and families who are in danger of eviction or having their utilities disconnected. —Hadley Lyman
Monday, April 27, 2009
Scene: Charleston International Film Festival
Posted by Erica Jackson on Mon, Apr 27, 2009 at 9:51 AM
Cara Kelly spent a lot of time in the dark at the Charleston International Film Festival and came back with this report.
The 2nd Annual Charleston International Film Festival rolled into town last week, and with it came directors, producers, and creative talent at all levels from across the globe. Thursday through Sunday consisted of daily screenings, with many local and regional films in addition to international shorts, documentaries, and full-length features. Several films also made their world, U.S., or East Coast debut, including a documentary written and directed by locals Jesse Berger and Nate Mallard, entitled S.O.B. and the Legend of Alan Schafer. Another film that drew a lot of attention over the weekend was All for Liberty, a historical drama that was shot in Charleston, Orangeburg, and parts of Georgia with a slew of local actors and actresses.
After days spent staring at the big screen, film-goers headed straight to the after-parties for open bars and great music at some of the choicest locations in town. Held at Chai’s, Fish, and Vue at Ripley’s Point, respectively, the after-parties for CIFF were the place to mingle for anyone involved in the film industry in Charleston. The crowd on Friday filled the upstairs of Fish, which was largely composed of Army Wives actors and staff. Saturday night was equally wild, with much longer bar lines at Vue. Although there was plenty of space inside the large venue, guests crowded outside on the decks to enjoy the warm spring evening and the gorgeous views of Charleston Harbor. The cinematic adventure concluded on Sunday, with the final blocks of films and an awards ceremony at the Francis Marion Hotel. Director Dave Rodriguez took top honors with his political thriller Anytown, which received the Golden Crescent Award for Best Feature.
Check out Cara's pictures from the Terrace and after-parties right here.
Friday, April 24, 2009
$5 Battery Game Tonight
Posted by Erica Jackson on Fri, Apr 24, 2009 at 3:37 PM
The Charleston Battery kick off against the Minnesota Thunder tonight at Blackbaud Stadium and will hopefully be bringing in the first win of the season (so far they've only had ties). All are encouraged to come cheer them on especially, since it's $5 ticket night, courtesy of Five Guys Burgers & Fries. In addition to the $5 goodness, tonight is also Go Green Night to recognize local green businesses and organizations, with a Green Vendor Village of 40 local vendors. All of the kiddos who attend will receive an official Charleston Battery autograph book. Gates open at 6:30 and draft beers are $2 until kick-off at 7:30, so go early and get rowdy. —Hadley Lyman
Weekend Events Round-Up
Posted by Erica Jackson on Fri, Apr 24, 2009 at 11:13 AM
It's a given most folks will be hittin' up the beach this beautiful weekend, but don't just settle for sand and sun. There are plenty of events worthy of tearing you away from Folly, Sullivan's, or whichever beach is "your's." Here are our top picks.
It's a great weekend for movie lovers. The Charleston International Film Festival is in town through Sunday, with blocks of films costing only $9. (Picture above from Speed Relationshiping.) City Paper's free Movies in Marion Square series continues tonight with Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa. On Sunday, Cinebarre also hosts a movie under the stars, but it ain't free. See The Sandlot ("You're killin' me, Smalls!") and enjoy cook-out fare. The $15 tickets go toward Camp Happy Days.
The Blessing of the Fleet festival is this weekend in Mt. Pleasant, celebrating local shrimpers and fishermen with plenty of music, food, and activities for kids.
Saltimbanco Cirque du Soleil continues through Sunday. We checked out the opening performance on Wednesday and we were totally mesmerized. Just don't try to bring your camera in or they'll make you walk it all the way back to your car! Little City Musical Theatre Company has moved their April in Paris show to Bethel United Methodist Church — and now it's free! (Though a $5 donation is suggested.)
Get your yard ready for outdoor living at Plantasia, the Charleston Horticultural Society huge annual plant sale outside of the Gaillard Saturday morning. If your thumb is more black than green, there will be plenty of docents around to help you make smart choices. Check out some already-beautiful gardens and homes at the Hampton Park Terrace Tour on Sunday for $20.
Sports fans, there's a Battery soccer game Friday, RiverDogs baseball games Sat.-Mon., and the Marino Bocce Bash tournament at Blackbaud on Saturday.
Other randoms: there's a car show on Kiawah, some very cool events hosted by Brown Derby Haberdashery, and a fund-raiser for Students for Free Tibet.
What are you getting into this weekend? Let us know if we missed anything!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Pet Helpers Fund-raisers
Posted by Erica Jackson on Thu, Apr 23, 2009 at 3:19 PM
With the state of the economy and the preponderance of lazy people (neuter your cat, jackass!), animal shelters need our help now more than ever. Pet Helpers is hosting a couple of events next week to help raise money for the shelter. Mark your calendars, buy your tickets, and make sure and go out to support the worthy organization.
On Wed. April 29, enjoy a three-course meal at Iacofano's at Mangia for Mutts. The event features a three-course meal, music from the Pickled Beets, a silent auction, and comedy from Shon Kennedy of Theatre 99. Tickets are $25, $45 per couple.
On Sat. May 2, Pet Helpers partners with O'Malley's for a Cookout on King. For $10 you'll get plenty of yummy cook-out food and music from Hollow Reed. There will be games as well.
Call Pet Helpers at (843) 795-1110 for more info on both events.
Brown Derby Events
Posted by Erica Jackson on Thu, Apr 23, 2009 at 2:39 PM
Newish local streetwear clothing company Brown Derby Haberdashery (aka Brwn Drby) is getting its feet wet with two cool events downtown this weekend.
On Friday at 6:30 p.m., head to CofC's Physician's Auditorium for The Blender High School Step Show. The show aims to attract the finest and most enthusiastic high school steppers in S.C. while promoting the value of education and the importance of academic prowess. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
On Saturday at 7 p.m., Brwn Drby takes over Redux for a Paparazzi Party to celebrate the brand's relaunch. According to owner K.J. Kearney, "This re-launch marks the new direction of The Brown Derby Haberdashery and the company’s conscience attempt at removing the many layers of bureaucratic mess that keeps brands from interacting directly with its fans and supporters, and more importantly, raises the price of the products to pay for these hidden levels." The event will feature music from the Spaced Invaders and Lip Service as well as previously-released products at deep discounts. New products will be and for sale too. Tickets are $20, and guests are encouraged to wear their darkest shades to get their picture taken by one of Charleston's best photographers. Admission includes beer and wine.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
U.S. Women's Soccer Team to play Blackbaud in July
Posted by Erica Jackson on Wed, Apr 22, 2009 at 4:46 PM
Soccer fanatics get ready, on July 22, the Gold Medal-winning U.S. Women's Soccer Team is visiting Charleston! It's a chance for you to paint your face, scream like crazy, and support the team as they continue their 2009 season by playing Canada. The U.S. Women's National Team will be playing Canada twice in July, and they will face their familiar foe at Blackbaud Stadium just three days after playing against them in N.Y. It will be the first time the teams face off since Natasha Kai scored an overtime game-winning goal for the U.S. at the 2008 Olympics in Shanghai, China. Tickets for the match go on sale to the public on Friday, April 24 at 10 a.m. and you can get yours here www.ussoccer.com, by phone at (800) 745-3000. Tickets range from $25-$55. If you can't make it in person, be sure to check out the live broadcast on Fox Soccer Channel and Fox Sports en Espanol. —Candice Summers
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