Lady Cats to Become HoneyBees When Bobcats Become Hornets; Auditions Begin June 7

Heading into this NBA season, I assumed 2013-14 would be another subpar year for the Charlotte Bobcats, and one that would be even more marginalized because of the excitement around the team switching back to the Hornets name next season. So it's been a pleasant surprise to see the Bobcats cap off just their second winning (above .500) season in their 10-year franchise history, and make the playoffs for the second time (you need to show more enthusiasm).

While most of us Bobcats fans last week were keeping an eye on how the team would finish the regular season, which would determine how they were seeded in the playoffs and who they would play in the first round (they finished seventh in the Eastern Conference and are facing the second-seeded Miami Heat), another announcement was made: the HoneyBees will hold auditions beginning June 7 at Time Warner Cable Arena.

The Lady Cats. Credit: Sean Phaler/bobcats.com

The HoneyBees are what the Lady Cats--Charlotte's NBA dance team--will become when the Bobcats transition to the Hornets after this season ends. If you were a previous fan of the Charlotte Hornets (1988-2002), then you might recall that the HoneyBees were the original name for the Hornets' dance team. So this is another piece of purple-and-teal nostalgia that will return to the Queen City in modern form, beginning with the 2014-15 season.

The audition requirements to try out for the HoneyBees are rather simple, well, aside from you needing to be an incredible dancer in great physical shape:

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age by June 7th, 2014 (must present valid ID)
• Must have graduated from high school or received G.E.D.
• Must have proper audition attire and footwear
• You must be available every night during the week of boot camp (June 8th-June 15th)

Audition Day Tips

• Come dressed in your Hornets-inspired dance gear. Show off your love for the Hornets in purple and teal! Must include a midriff top and shorts and non-marking shoes
• Bring a warm-up suit or cover-up. Restrooms will be available but there will be no formal changing area
• Concession stands will not be open; bring your own snacks and water

Keep up with all of the Bobcats-to-Hornets announcements by visiting BackBuzzCity.com.

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'Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour' Hits Charlotte April 8-9, King of Pop's Music Is Alive and Well

In less than three months, we'll reach the five-year anniversary of Michael Jackson's death. He reigned as the King of Pop for decades during his lifetime, and because of the legacy of great music and memorable performances he left behind (not to mention previously unreleased music coming soon), he will forever be immortalized. So it's only fitting that when Cirque du Soleil partnered with the Estate of Michael Jackson and in the fall of 2011 launched a tour specially built on MJ's music and iconic dance moves, they titled it Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour. Already one of the top-ten grossing tours of all-time, it comes to Charlotte for two nights, April 8 and 9, at Time Warner Cable Arena.

Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour features nearly 50 international dancers, acrobats, and musicians, including four of the original band members who worked with Michael. It's presented in a rock concert format that "combines the excitement and innovation of Michael Jackson’s music and choreography with Cirque du Soleil’s unparalleled creativity," as the show's synopsis describes. They perform--on stage and soaring above it--to about 30 of MJ's greatest hits, including several of my favorites: "Billie Jean," "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough," "Man In the Mirror," "P.Y.T.," "Rock With You," "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," and many more. I almost want to bust out some of his dance moves just typing the names of those songs... shamone!

Photos courtesy of Cirque du Soleil.

The tour first came to the Queen City in March 2012, during its original North American run. By the end of that summer, it had moved on overseas and proceeded to spend the next year and a half entertaining audiences all over the world. It returned to the States about a month ago, and I'm looking forward to seeing it myself when it stops in Charlotte next week.

Tickets to the Charlotte shows are on sale, ranging from $58 to $172, and can be purchased by clicking here.

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Breaking News: Michael Jordan Does Not Twerk

In the roll-out for today's release of NBA 2K14, the newest installment of the no. 1 selling basketball video game, 2K Sports is posting interviews with the G.O.A.T., a.k.a. Michael Jordan. While MJ is now 50 years old and hasn't played in an NBA game in a decade, he's still one of the most important figures in the sport (not so much because of his ownership of the Charlotte Bobcats). And since he doesn't grant many interviews, we hang onto his every word.

The story that's burning up the 'net today is the recently released interview Jordan did for 2K14, that aired on ESPN, in which he was asked, among other things, which players would he want to play one-on-one if he was in his prime. He lists a bunch of greats who came before him (like Jerry West and Elgin Baylor) and after him, saying he could beat them all, including LeBron James, but "other than Kobe Bryant because he steals all my moves." LeBron is on the cover of 2K14 by the way.

But another piece of news came out of MJ's mouth during these interview segments, and it's floating a little beneath the radar. In one of the snippets posted on the 2K Sports YouTube channel, the greatest basketball player of all time reveals that he is not a twerker.

What is up with mainstream America's current and ongoing fascination with twerking? As if it wasn't around back in 2000 when rappers were making hit songs about it (remember the Ying Yang Twins?). I'm pretty sure Jordan wouldn't have brought it up on his own--clearly he was asked a question about twerking.

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Name the Charlotte Knights Dance Team

UPDATE 4/12/13: The dance team has been named The KnightinGals (video).

For the first time ever, the Charlotte Knights have a dance team (cheerleaders). The group of ladies debuted last weekend during the Triple-A baseball team's annual fan event, Knights Fest. Now, team officials are asking you to name the dance team.

To help with your brainstorming, consider the names of Charlotte's other professional sports dance teams/cheerleaders. The Carolina Panthers (NFL) have the TopCats; the Charlotte Bobcats (NBA) have the LadyCats; and the Charlotte Checkers (AHL) have the CheckMates. Quick side note: someone should organize an annual beauty pageant in which our city's professional cheerleaders compete. I'd pay to see that (swimsuit competition).

The Charlotte Knights dance team. Credit: Facebook

Back to the issue at hand, what do you think the Charlotte Knights dance team should be named? My suggestion is "Ladies of the Knight." Provocative, I know. Well, you're encouraged to email your suggestions to Media Relations Director Tommy Viola at tommyv@charlotteknights.com. Entries must be received by Tuesday, April 9 at 5 p.m. The winning name will be revealed at the Knights' opening day, Thursday, April 11, during the dance team's pre-game performance.

The Knights dance team is scheduled to perform at 11 home games this season:

Thursday, April 11
Saturday, April 20
Saturday, April 27
Saturday, May 11
Saturday, June 1
Saturday, June 15
Saturday, June 29
Saturday, July 6
Saturday, July 27
Saturday, August 17
Saturday, August 31

As you likely know, the Knights are currently playing their final season at their stadium in Fort Mill, where they've played since 1990. The team's future home will be in Charlotte proper, when the brand-spanking new BB&T Ballpark opens in Uptown next spring.

For more details on the Knights' 2013 season, visit charlotteknights.com.

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'FOX News Rising' Dances to Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston, sadly, will be laid to rest Saturday. While her funeral at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey is invitation-only, it's scheduled to be broadcast live on TV and the Internet at noon.

This morning on FOX News Rising, the FOX Charlotte show decided to dedicate this week's Friday Dance Party to Whitney. The crew--from anchors and reporters to production and the newsroom--danced to the music legend's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody." Watch the FNR video below.

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Wells Fargo Community Celebration Saturday—Huge

Wells Fargo, which recently completed its conversion of Wachovia signs and banking locations to Wells Fargo nationwide with Charlotte and North Carolina being the final changeovers this month, is throwing the largest cultural arts festival I think this city has ever seen. The Wells Fargo Community Celebration takes place this Saturday in Uptown Charlotte, featuring more than 60 performances and events, and it's all free to the public.

Wells Fargo, which now employs about 20,000 people in Charlotte and nearly 30,000 in the state thanks to its acquisition of Wachovia, has partnered with the Arts & Science Council (ASC) and Charlotte Center City Partners for this all-day celebration. There will be live art demonstrations, a street festival featuring LEGO sculptures, a chalk art competition, stage plays, dance shows, and concerts such as those by Nicci Canada and headlining act, jazz great Branford Marsalis.

Branford Marsalis headlines the celebration Saturday. Credit: facebook.com/branfordmarsalis.

Wells Fargo is also underwriting free admission into several Uptown cultural facilities on Saturday, including: Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Discovery Place, Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture, Levine Museum of the New South, McColl Center for Visual Art, The Light Factory, and more. Plus, the celebration will commemorate the opening of the Wells Fargo History Museum in Three Wells Fargo Center, which honors Charlotte and North Carolina's rich banking heritage in addition to telling the history of the San Francisco-based bank.

The main hub for the activities will be the Levine Center for the Arts, so you'll want to make your way there Saturday as a starting point. CATS Gold Rush, the free center city trolley on wheels, is operating a special route to help attendees maneuver easily to the various facilities and events. You can find a detailed list of all of Saturday's events here on the ASC's website, including this printable event guide and information on parking.

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Bobcats Keeping It Hot During NBA Lockout

The NBA season was supposed to start next week, but we've known for a while that wasn't going to happen. As the lockout carries on and rumors surface that commissioner David Stern is about to cancel another two weeks of the regular season--eliminating more than 100 games through November 28--I applaud the Charlotte Bobcats for keeping fans engaged. Even without players, the franchise has been holding events for fans as well as conducting contests and giveaways through social media. They're currently giving away free stuff from the "Time Warner Cable Arena Closet."

And this week, the 2011-12 Lady Cats Swimsuit Calendar went on sale. Bobcats staff have been posting behind-the-scenes photo galleries of the calendar shoot on bobcats.com and facebook.com/bobcats.

Behind-the-scenes calendar shot of Lady Cat Rhema. Credit: bobcats.com.

While we won't have any Bobcats games to watch on TV anytime soon, FOX Sports Carolinas is airing a behind-the-scenes episode of the Lady Cats Swimsuit Calendar on Thursday, November 3 at 9 p.m. The Lady Cats are hosting calendar release parties that night at the EpiCentre: at Mez from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and at Whisky River from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Click here for more info on and photos of the Lady Cats.

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Keisha Hughes Is 'Born To Dance'

Famed choreographer Laurieann Gibson's new show, Born To Dance, premiered on BET last night. Twenty female dancers have been selected from thousands who auditioned around the country, and over the next several weeks, in one-hour episodes, we'll see them compete while learning from Laurieann. In the end, one winner will be chosen and she'll receive $50,000 and become a professional dancer as part of Team BoomKack. One of the 20 young ladies competing on Born To Dance is Keisha "Sparkle" Hughes, a 21-year-old native of Queens, New York, who currently lives in Charlotte and is a student at UNC Charlotte.

According to her bio, Keisha is traditionally trained in ballet and Martha Graham Technique, and has also trained and studied in the styles of contemporary modern, pointe, jazz, African, salsa, and ballroom. She attended Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Long Island City, New York and has received multiple scholarships to study at the Martha Graham Contemporary School of Dance. She says she has a passion for hip-hop dance, and she's a member of the Charlotte-based Elektrik Dance Crew.

If you missed last night's premiere of Born To Dance, you can watch it below.

Born To Dance airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. on BET, where you can watch to see how far Keisha makes it. You can also keep up with her by liking her Facebook page, following her on Twitter @SparkleDaStar, or checking out her dance videos on YouTube.

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2011-12 Lady Cats Announced

I love this game.

Click here to see more photos of the 18 members of the recently announced Lady Cats dance team, for the Charlotte Bobcats' 2011-2012 NBA season. And you can meet them in person this Thursday at the Bobcats Draft Party.

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Lady Cats Compete in 2011 NBA Dance Team Contest

While the Charlotte Bobcats attempt a late-season push to make the NBA playoffs, the beautiful ladies who cheer them on are gearing up for competition as well. The Lady Cats are competing in the annual NBA Dance Team Contest, which begins Monday, April 4. They won the title last year, so this will be the first time they're entering as defending champions. The Lady Cats are a favorite again this go-round, as are the Heat Dancers of Miami, who've won the competition several times. But we're taking our talents to Trade Street!

Click here beginning Monday at 2 p.m. to vote for the Lady Cats, where you'll also see video of them performing a burlesque dance.

For some reason, just now the video for Drake's "Best I Ever Had" came to mind.

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Events for the Weekend: July 30-Aug. 1

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends. Use contact/website info listed to verify event details.

Friday, July 30

Chife, Changing Reflections of My Life
Chife, which stands for changing life, is an original piece about how the power of love and forgiveness can and will change one's existence. The stories are real, personal, and are based on songs by Michael Jackson. Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. $7-$12. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 North College St. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Rock & Republic Fashion Show Model Casting Call
Whether you're an aspiring model or just want to mingle with them, attend this model casting call for the upcoming Rock & Republic Fashion Show. Models are asked to bring their photo/comp card. 9:30 p.m. Suite, at the EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.suitecharlotte.com.

I Heart Hip Hop
DJ K-Nyce plays the best in hip-hop from old-school classics to today's hits, while you party at this sophisticated lounge. 10 p.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

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New Lady Cats Revealed

Here are the 2010-2011 Lady Cats, a.k.a. Charlotte Bobcats cheerleaders, selected on Friday after a week of tryouts. Of the 20 ladies making up the new squad, 11 return from last season and nine are newcomers.

For more details and photos of the new Lady Cats, click here.

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Lady Cats in Conference Finals of Dance Competition

The Lady Cats, the Charlotte Bobcats dance team, are in the Eastern Conference finals of the NBA Dance Team Tournament. In this online voting contest, they're currently pitted against the Heat Dancers (Miami), and as of the time of this posting the Lady Cats had a 60 percent to 40 percent edge. That's remarkable considering the Heat Dancers have won the competition several of the past years.

If the Lady Cats win this round, they'll advance to the finals to meet the winner from the Western Conference, where the Suns Dancers currently lead the Mavs Dancers. To get this far, the Lady Cats have beaten the Sixers Dancers, the Luvabulls, and the Magic Dancers (the last two by large margins). Hopefully the Charlotte Bobcats will follow a similar path as they begin their first-ever playoff series in a little more than a week.

To vote in the dance competition, click here. For more on the Lady Cats (including photo and video galleries), click here.

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DeAngelo Williams Does 'Pants on the Ground'

Carolina Panthers Pro Bowl running back DeAngelo Williams has created his own rendition of "Pants on the Ground," the American Idol contestant-performed song that's sweeping the nation. Just as the original version is a joke, so is Williams's. He's accompanied by former Panthers wide receiver Ryne Robinson on drums. See the YouTube video below.

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Video from Flash Mob in Huntersville

There was a flash mob held at Birkdale Village in Huntersville on Saturday. It was organized by Terry Vaughan of High Intensity Teambuilding, and choreographer Ian Burke. An estimated 2,000 people showed up to dance to the Black Eyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling." Vaughan had posted a video of the dance routine on YouTube a few weeks prior, so most of the crowd knew the moves. It was sort of cool. They mobbed, but didn't really flash--they didn't disperse right after.

See the video below of Saturday's flash mob.



UNC Charlotte students held a cool flash rave last December to celebrate the end of final exams. It was less organized and more chaotic, but that's what made it so entertaining. Click here for "UNCC Students 'Rave' Over End of Finals."

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Beating on Trash Cans Is Cool

The Blumenthal Center's Education Institute holds "Get to Know" workshops throughout the year to give you insight into some of the upcoming plays, musicals, and other events that come to the Blumenthal's theaters. On Friday, I took a few teenagers from a youth group I work with to the Get to Know Street Beat workshop at the Johnston YMCA in NoDa. I captured this 30-second video of the group of artists that were there breakdancing and playing music on trash cans, a small sampling of what you'll experience when Street Beat comes to the Knight Theater October 21-22. This can also be your chance to check out one of the first shows at the beautiful new Knight Theater that's opening at the Wells Fargo Cultural Campus in Uptown.

At this workshop, guests were asked to bring household items to act as drums. It was adorable seeing the little kids there beating on pots and pans (good luck to the parents trying to tell them that they can't do that at home). The performers also led the crowd in sessions that taught them some of there moves.

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Events for the Weekend: September 18-20

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Friday, September 18

Mint After 5
Young Affiliates of the Mint (YAM) throw their final rooftop party of the season. It’s also a great way for you to learn more about the group. Enjoy drink specials, free food, and live music by Jared Allan and Co. 6 p.m. $15 (free for YAM members). Mint Museum of Craft + Design, 220 N. Tryon St. www.youngaffiliates.org.

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking party, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy drink and food specials while listening to great music: live jazz at 7 p.m., DJ at 9 p.m. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-11 p.m. Free. House of Jazz, 8630 University Executive Park Dr. www.thehouseofjazz.net.

Passport Party Bus Tour
A 60-passenger party bus is loading up to take you around to some of the hottest bars and nightclubs in Charlotte: Therapy Café, 401 N. Tryon St.; Tilt 127, W. Trade St.; Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd.; and Halo, 820 Hamilton St. Enjoy music and drinks while you ride. Presented by Elevate Magazine and Lockhart Entertainment. Bus boards at Therapy at 7:30 p.m. $30 (includes entry into each of the destinations). www.lockhartent.com (704-712-3083).

The Atlanta Underground Part 2
The ATL crew is coming back, including DJ BE of 4DEEP and Stanzeff of GlobalMoods. Enjoy a night of eclectic music at one of Charlotte’s most relaxed bars. 9 p.m. Free. Soul Gastrolounge, 1500 Central Ave. www.soulgastrolounge.com.

Drinks @ Kiss
This monthly “all night happy hour” attracts great crowds to one of the city’s trendiest lounges. Featuring complimentary Nuvo drinks for the first 50 people and several other drinks specials throughout the night. DJ Daddy D will be playing the best in R&B, hip-hop, and reggae. 10 p.m. Free before 11 p.m. with RSVP. $10 and up after. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.mingleberry.com/drinks.

Saturday, September 19

Sunset Jazz Festival
This annual music festival showcases some of the region’s best jazz performers. Lineup includes Matt Marshak, Bryan Anderson, 5th and York, Innertwyned, Unique Blend, and The Queen’s Collective. This year’s event will also feature the Multicultural Career Pavilion, a designated networking area within the festival that will pair employers with job seekers. 1-10 p.m. Free. Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall. www.charlottesunsetjazzfestival.com.

Blame It Tour
Jamie Foxx brings you an evening of music and comedy. 8 p.m. $49.75-$69.75. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. www.timewarnercablearena.com.

Prince Presto at Dharma
Here’s your chance to check out Charlotte’s newest lounge. The yoga-inspired space will put you at ease as you enjoy drinks while dancing to music from Atlanta DJ Prince Presto. 8 p.m. Cost varies. Dharma Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St., Suite 105. www.dharmacharlotte.com.

Marquee Saturdays (weekly event)
It’s Charlotte’s newest and hottest Saturday night party at this newly revamped nightclub. Enjoy the large dance floor, plentiful seating, and large outdoor patio. Presented by Sleeping Giant Productions. 9 p.m. Cost varies. To get on the guest list, email marqueesaturdays@haloclt.com. Halo, inside the N.C. Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St. www.haloclt.com.

Mayweather vs. Marquez Viewing Party
Watch the fight on one of several flatscreens and get your party on after. This will also serve as a concert after-party, so a Jamie Foxx concert ticket admits you for free. 10 p.m. Cost varies. Club 935, 935 S. Summit Ave. www.club935.com.

Sunday, September 20

USNWC's Hispanic Heritage Day
Enjoy an experience that pairs the thrills of the Whitewater Center with live music and DJs, a kid’s zone, authentic Hispanic cuisine, and drinks. 12-8 p.m. Free ($5 for parking). U.S. National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. www.usnwc.org.

Jazzy Sundays
This week features Kevon Edmonds, formerly of After 7, performing live along with Buff Dillard & Unique Blend. Hosted by V101.9’s Chirl Girl, and DJ 06 on the turntables. 9 p.m. Cost varies; everyone free until 10 p.m. Tempo, 4809 Wilkinson Blvd. www.tempocharlotte.com.

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'Be The One' for A Chorus Line

In anticipation of the national tour of Tony Award-winning musical A Chorus Line coming to the Belk Theater September 29 through October 4, the tour producers and the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center have launched an online audition talent competition called “Be The One.”


Charlotteans are asked to submit video clips, photos, or blog entries showcasing their talents--singing, dancing, or whatever--and describing why they deserve to Be The One. The top male and female who receive the most votes will each win a Be The One prize package that includes two tickets to A Chorus Line and admission into the cast part after the show. Plus, the one individual who receives the most votes will be crowned “Charlotte’s Singular Sensation,” winning a $500 U.S. Airways Gift Card.

To enter the competition or to vote for entries, go to auditions.achorusline.com/charlotte. The competition ends September 25.

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Events for the Week: Labor Day Weekend Edition

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Thursday, September 3

Alive After Five at EpiCentre (weekly event)
This week’s featured bands are Fantasy (R&B and Motown) performing on the rooftop stage, and Déjà vu (beach music and oldies) playing on the courtyard stage. There will be plenty of drink stations scattered throughout. Wristbands also get you into participating EpiCentre bars. 5-9:30 p.m. Free. The EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.aliveafterfiveatepicentre.com.

Working Together to Meet Basic Human Needs
This event will feature a panel conversation by community leaders including Taylor Batten (The Charlotte Observer), Brett Loftis (Council for Children’s Rights), Dana McDonald (University Park Baptist Church), Pat Mumford (City of Charlotte), and Mary Wilson (Mecklenburg County). The panel conversation will be followed by a dialogue with the audience moderated by Bob Morgan (Charlotte Chamber) and Willie Ratchford (Community Relations Committee). 7 p.m. Free. University Park Baptist Church, 6029 Beatties Ford Rd.

USC vs. NCSU Football Game Viewing Party
Watch the Gamecocks defeat the Wolfpack at this viewing party for South Carolina fans and alumni. Food and drink specials will be served, and the game will be shown in a reserved room on a big screen. 7-10 p.m. Free. Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, 911 E. Morehead St. Presented by USC Charlotte Club. www.mycarolina.org/charlotte.

ROCK * IT Thursdays
Charlotte has another new nightclub in Uptown and this Thursday night party is your chance to check out the posh new venue (owned by partners from the Sunset Club and Kiss Lounge). 9 p.m. Cost varies. To get on the guest list, email mouzakitis.constantine@gmail.com. Luna Lounge, 521 N. College St. www.lunacharlotte.com.

Friday, September 4

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking party, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy drink and food specials while listening to live music. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-11 p.m. Free. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). www.bluecharlotte.com.

America's Most Wanted Music Festival
See Lil Wayne and his Young Money Crew, along with Young Jeezy, Soulja Boy Tell’em, Pleasure P, and Jeremih. 7 p.m. $29-$125. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 707 Pavilion Blvd. www.livenation.com.

Free Fridays
The first Friday of the month means free admission at one of Charlotte’s swankiest lounges. Enjoy the best in hip-hop, R&B, and reggae. On this night, the club often reaches capacity so get there early. 10 p.m. Free until capacity; cover charge after. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.kisscharlotte.com.

First Fridays Charlotte
It’s touted as the number one urban event and it draws a large crowd each month to a different venue. Music by DJ MC and DJ Freedom. Presented by Dee Autry, Troy Veale, and Thomas Washington. 10 p.m.-2 a.m. $10 in advance; ladies free until 11 p.m. Cans Bar and Canteen, 500 W. Fifth St. www.ticketannex.com.

Collegiate Flirt Friday
The Lake Norman area gets it popping at Synergy Nightclub (formerly NV Lounge). And this Friday is a concert after-party. 10 p.m. Ladies free all night with college I.D. Men $5 before 11 p.m. with college I.D., more after. Synergy Nightclub, 20924 Torrence Chapel Rd. www.mysynergynightclub.com.

Saturday, September 5

Charlotte Literary Festival
This two-day festival features authors, book signings (Wahida Clark), artists, music, dance, guest speakers (Rev. Michael Beckwith, Chris Gardener), a carnival for kids, and more. Visit website for event line-up. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Cost varies. NoDa, E. 36th and N. Davidson streets. www.charlotteliteraryfestival.org.

Jet Set the Evolution
It’s a “day party” to celebrate the end of summer. Party with the sun out—and see beautiful people with clarity. Featuring catered food, a live band, and music by DJ DR. Presented by The A List-Charlotte and The Sol Kitchen. 4-8:30 p.m. $10 in advance. Pravda Bar and Rooftop Garden Patio at The Forum, 300 N. College St. www.alistnc.com.

Groove.Rock.Dance.
Enjoy great live performances by Jared Allan & Co and Jocelyn Ellis & The Alpha Theory, along with music by DJ Arthur Bros. Hosted by slam poet Bluz. 8 p.m. $13. Club Alive, 2909 N. Davidson St. www.grooverockdance.com.

Marquee Saturdays (weekly event)
It’s Charlotte’s newest and hottest Saturday night party at this newly revamped nightclub. Enjoy the large dance floor, plentiful seating, and outdoor patio. DJ Complete playing in the main room and DJ R-Wonz playing on the patio. Presented by Sleeping Giant Productions. 9 p.m. Cost varies. Halo, inside the N.C. Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St. www.haloclt.com.

Pink and Cognac Affair
Come dressed to impress and ladies are asked to wear pink. Hosted by actor Darrin Henson. Music by DJ Flemingo. 9:30 p.m. $10 and up; ladies free before 11:30 p.m. Décor 1202, 1202 Charlottetowne Ave. www.myspace.com/decor1202.

Sunday, September 6

Charlotte Literary Festival
This two-day festival features authors, book signings (Wahida Clark), artists, music, dance, guest speakers (Rev. Michael Beckwith, Chris Gardener), a carnival for kids, and more. Visit website for event line-up. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Cost varies. NoDa, E. 36th and N. Davidson streets. www.charlotteliteraryfestival.org.

Pre-Labor Day Cookout
Enjoy free food and music by DJ Cuttz. Presented by Presidential Movement Entertainment and Sport E. Odie. 2-7 p.m. Free. Hornets Nest Park, 6301 Beatties Ford Rd.

A Mid-Summer Night’s Dream
Inner Circle Events is taking its popular party to a larger venue and there’s sure to be plenty of attractive young professionals. Summer cocktail attire requested. 10 p.m. $15 and up. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. www.innercircleevents.com/midsummer.

End of Summer White Party
It’s two clubs in one and it’s likely to fill up at this party hosted by Carolina Panthers Chris Harris, Charles Johnson, Charles Godfrey, and Jeff Otah. White attire is requested. Music by So So Def’s DJ Shakim. 10 p.m. $15 and up; ladies free before 11:30 p.m. Club 935, 935 S. Summit Ave. www.club935.com.

Déjà Blue
Party in style amongst a beautiful crowd and backdrop. Presented by The Sol Kitchen, Blue Goose, and The A List-Charlotte. 10 p.m. $10 in advance. Blue Restaurant and Bar, 214 N. Tryon St. (corner of Fifth and College streets). www.thesolkitchen.com.

Super Fresh Sunday
Sunshine Anderson hosts this party for those who know how to get fresh. Presented by So Fresh Entertainment. 10 p.m. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.kisscharlotte.com.

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Events for the Week: August 16-22

Your best weekly list for parties, nightlife, social, and cultural events in Charlotte. This isn’t intended to be a complete list of everything that's going on, but instead are the events GPT recommends.

Tuesday, August 18

Tone-X and Friends (weekly event)
Come laugh at the jokes and skits by Power 98’s Tone-X, Chris “Funnyman” Robinson, and other comedians. Music by DJ Stacey Blackman. 8 p.m. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Skandalos, 5317 E. Independence Blvd. www.myspace.com/tonexandfriends.

Wednesday, August 19

Pop Life (weekly event)
It’s the most popular social networking event on a Wednesday night. Starts after work but runs late. Varying types of people pop in and out throughout the night so you never know who you’ll run into. Music by top DJs. Presented by Creative Loafing and The Sol Kitchen. 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. Apostrophe Lounge, 1440 S. Tryon St. www.apostrophelounge.com.

Thursday, August 20

Jarvis Holliday’s Birthday
This “National Holliday” should be celebrated by all. Shout-out to my twin brother and all my fellow Leos! If you see me out, buy me a drink! www.grownpeopletalking.com.

Alive After Five at EpiCentre (weekly event)
This week’s featured bands are Peace And Love performing on the rooftop stage, and The Kays playing on the courtyard stage. There will be plenty of drink tents scattered throughout. Wristbands also get you into Blackfinn, Whisky River, Suite, and StrikeCity. 5-9:30 p.m. Free. The EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St. www.aliveafterfiveatepicentre.com.

Cufflinks and Cocktails
Presented by Charlotte’s Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity alumni, this event is held at a different bar each month. Come mingle with a group of well-dressed professionals, from 20- to 40-somethings. Live music by Bayou Butch Lucas. Drink and appetizer specials will be served (Long Island Iced Tea, margaritas, and Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka for $5; half-price appetizers). 6-10 p.m. Free. Villa Antonio Ristorante, 4707 South Blvd. www.cufflinksandcocktails.com.

Annual Back to School Unwind Happy Hour
Mix and mingle with a professional crowd, and bring school supplies to be donated to area schools. Presented by Pinkies Up Productions. 6-10 p.m. Free. Bentley’s RSVP, 305 W. Fourth St. www.pinkiesupproductions.com.

Community Cinema Screening: Chicago 10
When anti-Vietnam War protestors clashed with the police during the Democratic National Convention in 1968, the resulting Chicago Conspiracy Trial was a media circus that pitted courtroom authorities against movement leaders. Blending original animation and rare archival footage, Chicago 10 tells the story of 10 young Americans who dared to take a stand. Presented by GenerationEngage. 6:30-9 p.m. Free. PLCMC Main Library, Francis Auditorium, 310 N. Tryon St. www.generationengage.org/state/chltt.

Friday, August 21

Friday Afterwork Rendezvous (weekly event)
End your workweek on a high note at this networking party, held at a different venue each week. Enjoy drink and food specials while listening to live jazz and music from a DJ. Presented by Talk of the Town. 6-11 p.m. Free. House of Jazz, 8630 University Executive Park Dr. www.thehouseofjazz.net.

The Jonas Brothers World Tour 2009
They're one of the biggest groups in music today--and they're brothers (with family ties to Charlotte). Opening acts include Jordin Sparks, Honor Society, and Wonder Girls. 7 p.m. $29-$89. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. www.timewarnercablearena.com.

Drinks @ Kiss
This monthly “all night happy hour” attracts great crowds to one of the city’s trendiest lounges. Featuring complimentary Nuvo drinks for the first 50 people and several other drinks specials. DJ HeartBreak will be playing the best in R&B, hip-hop, and reggae. 10 p.m. Free before 11 p.m. with RSVP. $10 and up after. Kiss Lounge, 204 W. Woodlawn Rd. www.mingleberry.com/drinks.

Saturday, August 22

4th Annual Battle Slam Jam
Witness the baddest and best urban artists, athletes, and professional performers from North Carolina and beyond. Battle Slam Jam is an all-inclusive community festival featuring multiple skateboard contests, DJs, live bands, a B-boy contest, graffiti writing, breakdancing, urban freestyle soccer, a Comic Book Corridor, and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free for the general public; $10 registration fee for competitors. Grayson Skate Park, 750 Beal St. www.battleslamjam2009.com.

PlayDate Charlotte
Bring out the kid in you. Charlotte has joined the network of more than 30 cities that offer this alternative to typical partying and nightclubbing. Enjoy music and drinks while playing card games, checkers, dominoes, Connect Four, Twister, Monopoly, old-school video games, and more. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. (8 p.m. for advance ticket holders) $10. Tyvola Marriott, 5700 Westpark Dr. www.playdatecharlotte.com.

Marquee Saturdays (weekly event)
It’s Charlotte’s newest and hottest Saturday night party at this newly revamped nightclub. Enjoy the large dance floor, plentiful seating, and large outdoor patio at this upscale party. This week features a tribute to Michael Jackson (10:30 p.m. performance by J. Lucas from L.A.). Music by DJ Complete and DJ R Wonz. Presented by Sleeping Giant Productions. 9 p.m. Cost varies. Halo, inside the N.C. Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St. www.haloclt.com.

Annual Cream and Butter Affair
Building off the success of last year, this party will likely attract hundreds of attractive, well-dressed 20-somethings (and early 30s) once again. Presented by Six Figure Entertainment. 9 p.m. $20 and up ($10 advance tickets have sold out). VIP is available. University Hilton Hotel, 6289 J.M. Keynes Dr. www.sixfigureentertainment.com.

Champagne Wishes
You never really want to miss an opportunity to party at the Sunset Club. Come dressed to impress. Presented by Clique Productions. 10 p.m. $10 and up; ladies free before 11 p.m. Sunset Club, 1820 South Blvd. www.cliqueproductions.com or www.sunsetclubcharlotte.com.

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