MLK Celebration

Jan 18, 7PM, The Ashe Arts Center, West Jefferson North Carolina. The Ashe County Arts Center will be sponsoring a community celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King with featured performer Mike Wiley, a NC actor who has performed over ten years in theatre, film and television. Wiley will perform excerpts from "Tired Souls." The play documents the tales of Martin Luther King, Jr. and others of the hundreds of men and women who stood up to Jim Crow’s segregation, held tight to their bus money and walked for freedom for 381 days. Students and community members will also be reading essays, speeches and tributes highlighting the message of Dr. King and his teachings of peace, unity and equality in our society. Special music will be presented by a community chorus under the direction of Diane Bryan-Leeper. This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information please call 336-846-ARTS.

Hayes Performing Arts Center to Suspend Operations Due to Funding

BLOWING ROCK, NC - At the end of the summer season, the Hayes Performing Arts Center and Blowing Rock Stage Company will suspend operations for a limited period of time. The Board of Trustees is currently evaluating and seeking all options and resources available to resume operations at the Center on sound economic footing prior to the 2010 summer season.
Across the nation, entertainment of all forms has endured unprecedented economic difficulty over the past 12 months. Nevertheless, the Stage Company and Hayes Center have enjoyed unequaled artistic success in spite of the severe economic downturn. According to Chairman Ron Bryson, "the Board and staff are proud of the body of work that they have provided our community, and we commend Kenneth Kay and his staff for the manner in which they have coped with this difficult economic climate."
Contact: Ron Bryson at ronald_bryson@ml.com or Eric Davidson at 828-295-3171 or eric@blowingrockcountrycljavascript:void(0)ub.com

Heritage Fest Weekend- Bryson City

May 22-23
Riverfront Park, Bryson City
Music with an emphasis on old time gospel, local arts and crafts, food, games and fun.

Black Mountain: Braidstream Mother's Day Performance

May 10 2:30 PM Black Mountain. A very special performance, on the grounds of the Black Mountain Inn on Mother's Day. Bring a picnic lunch, dessert provided by the Black Mountain Inn,and handcrafted wine offered by Lake James Cellar.
From Celtic to Native American and Baltic, from classical to the edge of jazz and beyond, Braidstream is an eclectic mix of musical styles, backgrounds and cultures coming together to create a whole greater than the sum of it’s parts. With flutes, hammered dulcimer, guitar, sitar, cello and vocals, these internationally recognized artists meld classical and modern forms into an exciting weave that defies categorization.

Don't miss this rare opportunity to Treat Mom to something Special!!!
Braidstream has been performing together professionally since 1985 and has been featured on HGTV at Christmas at the Biltmore Estate. For reservations, please call 828 669 6528.

Ticket Info: $20. Adv.Purchase $25 day of event/children $10.00 (under 10 no charge)

Asheville Entertainment: Benji Hughes w/Wayne Robbins & the Hellsayers

May 9 doors open 8PM Asheville, Grey Eagle. Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, Benji Hughes spends much of his time masterminding his blend of inventive rock and ballads. At times earnest, at others whimsical, Benji is equally adept at keyboards and guitar. He loves beer but he loves women even more. Underneath his thick mane of strawberry blond hair and beard is a versatile singer/songwriter, full of heart. His music collection -- spanning everything from The Crystals, Merle Haggard, and Kinky Friedman to Talking Heads, The Cars, and Slayer --is as wild as his gracious exterior. For more info or tickets: 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville 828-232-5800 info@theGreyEagle.com