By: Tavon N. Thomasson Special to the AFRO tthomasson@afro.com The Harriet Tubman Spirit Awards honored local leaders March 21 at the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum in Annapolis during a two-part program that also featured an artist discussion on history, memory and Black women’s stories. Held during Maryland Day programming from March 19-25, the event was one of […]
Category: ENTERTAINMENT
Posted inArts & Culture
‘Power’ exhibit showcases work by Baltimore-based artist and former MICA professor, Paula Phillips
A new exhibition at SBM Gallery in Charm City highlights decades of work by Baltimore-based artist Paula Phillips. The exhibit, which opens on April 3 at 5 p.m., explores themes of identity, spirituality and community through mixed media.
Posted inBaltimore News
Reginald F. Lewis museum hosts children’s book festival
By Alexis LaRueAFRO Internalarue@afro.com The Reginald F. Lewis Museum’s Children’s Book Festival returns April 11, offering children and families a day filled with literary exploration. Attendees will have the chance to peruse children’s literature about-African American children, as well as meet some of the authors during a Book Village. The annual event will offer an […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Ruby red slippers, a mean old lion, and Black folk adorned in emerald green can only mean one thing – ‘The Wiz’ is coming back to DC
The Tony Award-winning musical “The Wiz” returns to Washington, D.C., for a limited run at the National Theatre from April 7–12, showcasing a new generation of talent in the beloved all-Black reimagining of “The Wizard of Oz.” Cast member Cal Mitchell, who stars as The Lion, highlights the production’s enduring cultural impact, its celebration of Black joy and artistry, and its continued ability to inspire audiences across generations.
Posted inBooks
Must-read historical fiction novels about Black women
A list of must-read historical fiction novels highlights powerful stories of Black women whose lives and legacies shaped history. From Harlem Renaissance literary icon Jessie Redmon Fauset to Caribbean entrepreneur Dorothy Kirwan Thomas and Oscar-winning actress Hattie McDaniel, contemporary authors bring overlooked figures and pivotal moments to life, celebrating the resilience, creativity and influence of Black women across generations.
Posted inEducation
Meet the women educators creating space and opportunity for youth
Rosalind Cauthen and Dr. Nicol R. Howard are just two of the leading ladies making waves in education by creating spaces where Black youth and communities can thrive. Their work highlights the impact of Black women educators shaping institutions and the next generation.
Posted inENTERTAINMENT
Cardi B. says Latinos wouldn’t be ‘living comfortably’ if not for African Americans
By Alexis LaRueAFRO Internalarue@afro.com During her March 7 stop in Dallas, entertainer Belcalis “Cardi B.” Almánzar took to the stage to talk to Latino fans in the audience, reminding them of the sacrifices Black Americans made for them to live comfortably. In fan videos posted across social media, the rapper can be heard encouraging her […]
Posted inENTERTAINMENT
Bill Cosby held liable in 1972 sexual assault case; jury awards nearly $60 million
A California civil jury has found Bill Cosby liable for drugging and sexually assaulting Donna Motsinger in 1972, awarding her nearly $60 million in damages, including $40 million in punitive damages. The verdict comes nearly five years after Cosby’s criminal conviction was overturned in Pennsylvania. Motsinger, who came forward publicly in 2023, said the ruling affirms her experience and sends a message to other survivors seeking justice.
Posted inArts & Culture
Baldwin’s ‘Fire’ ignites the Lincoln Theatre
A sold-out, one-night-only premiere of “Baldwin: The Fire on the Mountain” transformed Washington, D.C.’s historic Lincoln Theatre into an immersive celebration of James Baldwin’s legacy. Produced by Lyn Dyson and powered by community partnerships and youth involvement, the multimedia performance blended narrative, music and movement to highlight Baldwin’s enduring influence on civil rights, literature and LGBTQ history.
Posted inArts & Culture
‘Expressions’ fundraiser celebrates BSA talent, raises half a million for arts education
The Baltimore School for the Arts raised about $740,000 in gross revenue, ultimately netting $500,000, during its annual “Expressions” fundraiser. The weekend showcase highlighted the creativity and talent of the city’s young artists.
Posted in!Front Page Arts and Entertainment
Kiki Shepard, ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ co-host, dies at 74
By Alexis LaRueAFRO Internalarue@afro.com Kiki Shepard, the long-time co-host of the variety show “Showtime at the Apollo,” died on March 16 after suffering a heart attack. She was 74. Shepard, a Texas native and a graduate of Howard University, launched her career as an ensemble dancer on Broadway in shows like “Reggae” and “Comin’ Uptown” […]
Posted inNational News
Obama Presidential Center announces grand opening celebrations: June 18-21
The Obama Presidential Center will hold its grand opening celebration June 18–21, featuring a dedication ceremony, public museum opening and community events highlighting the legacy of Barack Obama and the center’s mission to inspire civic engagement and social change.