Come celebrate with us the contributions of African Americans to our community, state, nation, and world. Join us for a variety of programs addressing the diverse experiences of the African Diaspora in the United States. This year’s theme is Unsung Titans of the ’70s & ’80s. We will take a fun trip back in time and see how some of these artists influenced the culture!

Schedule of Events:

Unsung Titans of the 70s and 80s:

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

2/2 & 2/5 - Tamara Dobson starring in CLEOPATRA JONES

2/9 & 2/12 - Nichelle Nichols featured in STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN

2/16 & 2/19 - Gregory Hines starring in WHITE NIGHTS

2/23 & 2/26 - Robert Townsend featured actor and director of HOLLYWOOD SHUFFLE

Location: The Cary Theater - 122 East Chatham Street Cary, NC 27511

February 18, 2023

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: The Future of Black History

Panel Discussion Moderated by Tru Pettigrew

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Celebrating Our Heroes

Applause! Theatrical Performance

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

Location: Cary Arts Center - 101 Dry Avenue Cary, NC 27511

February 19, 2023

1:00 PM - 5:30 PM: The Face of Emmett Till

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.

Location: Cary Arts Center - 101 Dry Avenue Cary, NC 27511

February 24, 2023

7:00 PM - 9:30 PM: An Evening with Grandmaster Victor Moore

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

Location: The Cary Theater - 122 East Chatham Street Cary, NC 27511

February 25, 2023

6:00 PM - 9:30 PM: Can I Kick It? The Last Dragon by Shaolin Jazz

Celebrating 50 yrs of Hip Hop Music: The Can I Kick It? Experience (Now in Cary)

Pre-show digital tribute: "Happy 50th Birthday Hip Hop" by local DJ Damu!

DJ 2 Tone Jones from Shaolin Jazz will perform a live music score of the 1985 martial arts comedy, The Last Dragon, with a blend of Hip Hop, Soul, and Funk!

Video Q&A with the lead actor, Taimak, from the film

Anime Sketch Artist Alberto Lung will be onsite to draw caricature keepsakes of fans (free -- 1st come/1st serve)

Food Trucks will be onsite at 5 p.m.: Go Yaki, Kitoko Bites & Royal Cheesecake & Varieties LLC

Tickets are only $10 and going fast at the Cary Box Office

For general inquiries contact the Cary Arts Center at (919) 469-4069

Location: Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Avenue, Cary, North Carolina 27511

Date: February 2 - 26, 2023

Locations:
Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Avenue, Cary, North Carolina 27511
The Cary Theater - 122 East Chatham Street Cary, NC 27511

Click here for more information.