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P.O. Box 30246 Charlotte, NC 28230

Culture Blocks

Culture Blocks connects communities with responsive arts, science, and history experiences close to where residents live. The program engages with creative individuals and organizations with a primary mission of arts, science, and/or history to present programs in specific geographic areas. Culture Blocks, funded by Mecklenburg County, supports cultural experiences that are planned with resident involvement and/or take place at libraries, recreation centers, parks, and relevant community spaces.

Upcoming GATHERINGS

Join us at your neighborhood’s library or recreation center to learn about our work in your community, listen to live music and engage in arts and crafts activities for all ages. This is your chance to let us know what arts, science and history programs you would like to see happening close to home!

Upcoming Programs

All the events, classes, and workshops listed below are FREE thanks to the generous financial support of Mecklenburg County

 

CULTURE BLOCKS GATHERING & LUNCH

Presented by Culture Blocks
When: Saturday, March 23 (11am – 1pm)
Location: Marion Diehl Rec Center (2219 Tyvola Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210) 

If you live in Southwest Charlotte, we would love to have lunch with you on Saturday, March 23!

Join us for a free meal, live music, arts activities and a conversation about the arts, science and history opportunities you want in your neighborhood.

Drum Circle Series

Presented by Drums4Life
When: Saturdays, February 3 through June 29 (12pm)
Where: Sugar Creek Library (4045 North Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28206)9
New location: Hickory Grove Rec Center (6709 Pence Rd, Charlotte, NC 28215)

Provide participants with empowering tools for healing through individual and group drumming. 

 The foundation of a person’s life is the heart and the healthier the heartbeat, the better we feel. Each one walks with a unique rhythm as the heart beats. The drum allows us to explore our inner voice and express our unique rhythm in a fully engaged manner. Through individual and group drumming, we want participants to connect on a deeper level with their inner life force and embrace the interdependence of our global community.

Community Sound Baths (Bilingual Program: English/Spanish)

Presented by Ana Lucia Divins
When: February 22, March 12, April 25 and May 23 (6 pm) 
Where: South Blvd. Library (4429 South Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28209)

When: April 27 (11am) and May 11 (2pm)
Where: Matthews Library (230 Matthews Station St., Matthews, NC 28105)

When: March 16 (2pm), April 18 (6pm) and June 1 (11am)
Where: Pineville Library (505 Main St. Ste. 100, Pineville, NC 28134)

A relaxing experience, enjoying soothing therapeutic music and community connections. During this restorative experience, Ana Lucía Divins, Therapeutic Singer and Carlos Crespo (Guitar) will share live music. You will experience soothing melodies created in the moment by her voice and instruments such us guitar, crystal sound bowls, rain sticks and chimes surrounding you with uplifting sounds and vibrations aiming to welcome in more balance, clarity and relaxation.   

Please bring a yoga mat, along with cushions, small blankets and anything you may need to be comfortable during this relaxing experience. You can also sit comfortably in one of the provided chairs. For more information or questions, contact divinsmusica@gmail.com.

Exploring Creative Arts

Presented by Adele Greenfield
When: Tuesdays and Fridays (11:30am) from January 19 through Friday, June 14
Where: Berewick Recreation Center (5910 Dixie River Road, Charlotte, NC 28278)

Enrich your creative self with mindfulness. Integrating artistic genres to enhance your creative journey including intuitive movement, mindful doodles, automatic writing, and spontaneous drawing. All skill levels welcome!

Register online or call Berewick Recreation Center at 980-314-1102.

Art & Science of World Cuisine

Presented by Naija Goddess
When: Sundays (3 p.m.) from January 14 through June 30
Where: Love in Action Cafe (4419 Tuckaseegee Rd, Charlotte, NC 28208)

Embark on a Culinary Adventure! Dive into plant-based nutrition, master cooking techniques, and explore the rich history and science behind West African, Southeast Asian, and Caribbean cuisines. Led by the talented Chef Naija, a board-certified holistic nutritionist and chef.

Watercolor Technique for Seniors

Presented by Robin Antoinette’s Arts for All Studio & Gallery
When: Tuesdays (10 a.m.) from January 23 through March 12
Where: North County regional Library (16500 Holly Crest Ln, Huntersville, NC 28078)

Explore nature and landscape painting techniques in watercolor. This easy to engage class will give you the tools and encouragement you need for success, with a few laughs and smiles along the way.

All materials will be provided in this community art class for seniors. Registration required. Register online or by calling

Hands-On Clay Workshop - 55+

Presented by Clayworks
When: January 16 through June 18
Where: Tyvola Senior Center (2225 Tyvola Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28210)

Join Clayworks for a hands-on clay workshop.  We will bring the clay, tools and project lesson plan to the center to lead the group in a 1.5 hour long muddy fun workshop. This workshop is intented for people 55+.

Each month, we will explore a project that focuses on a technique, an upcoming holiday or a short study of a cercamic artits. This is a beginner level class where through project making, one will learn basic handbuilding techniques. Registration for the workshop is required. Register online or by calling (980) 314-1320. Space fills up quickly, so reserve your spot early. 

Indie on Wheels

Presented by Independent Picture House
When: February 29 (6 pm)
Where: Sugaw Creek Rec Center (943 W Sugar Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28213)

When: March 27 (5:50 pm)
Where: Independence Library (6000 Conference Dr, Charlotte, NC 28212)

When: April 18 (5:30 pm)
Where: Steele Creek Library (13620 Steele Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28273)

When: May 21 (6 pm)
Where: University City Library (301 E W.T. Harris Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28262)

When: June 11 (6 pm)
Where: Sugar Creek Library (4045 N Tryon St suite a, Charlotte, NC 28206)

Movies on the go!

Hands-on Clay Workshop - Families and/or All Ages

Presented by Clayworks
When: January 17 through May 20
Where: South Boulevard Library (4429 South Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28209)

Join Clayworks for a hands-on clay workshop. We will bring the clay, tools and project lesson plan to the center to lead the group in a 1.5 hour long muddy fun workshop. This workshop is intented for anyone who wants to create in clay (ages 5+).

Each month, we will explore a project that focuses on a technique, an upcoming holiday or a short study of a cercamic artits. This is a beginner level class where through project making, one will learn basic handbuilding techniques. Registration for the workshop is required. Register online or by calling (704) 416-6400. Space fills up quickly, so reserve your spot early. 

Interactive Art: Make and Take

Presented by Mert Arts & Photo
When: January 18 through June 20
Where: Sugaw Creek/MLK Recreation Center (943 West Sugar Creek Road, Charlotte, NC 28213)

Seniors come make art! A variety of projects will be offered at each session such as Collage, Painting, Cyanotypes, Photography, Pottery and Jewelry making.

Time: 10 a.m. 
Dates: Jan 18 / Feb 1 & 15 / March 7 & 21 / April 4 & 18 / May 2 & 16 / June 6 & 20

Salsa Line Dance for Fun and Fitness

Presented by Adele Greenfield
When: Tuesdays (10:30am) from January 23 through June 11
Where: Berewick Recreation Center (5910 Dixie River Road, Charlotte, NC 28278)

Tune into those Latin rhythms as you salsa dance. With a little cha cha and bachata in the mix, you’ll improve cardio fitness, core strength, flexibility, and balance. Feel the beat in both popular songs and Latin tunes. No partners needed. All skill levels welcome! Register online or call 980-314-1103.

Teen Visual Arts Program

Presented by Creating Exposure Through The Arts
When: Saturdays from January 20 through March 16
Where: Naomi Drenan Recreation Center (750 Beal Street, Charlotte, NC 28211)

This Free Teen Visual Arts Program meets at the Naomi Drenan Recreation Center on Saturday afternooons with lessons, workshop, guest speakers and artist talks teaching Photography, Graphic Arts, Videography and Journalism. Teens ages 13-19 will be introduced to various disciplines of visual arts during the weekend (Saturday) program. In addition to the lessons, participant will build a portfolio, capture video for the “Behind The Ink” documentary and showcase work at a gallery show and movie screening.

BMY FREE PIANO CLASSES

Presented by B Music Youth

When: Tuesdays (5:30pm & 6:30pm) from January 16 through June 29
Where: Northern Regional Rec Center (18121 Old Statesville Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031)

When: Thursdays (5:30pm & 6:30pm) from January 18 through June 29
Where: Eastway Regional Rec Center (3150 Eastway Park Drive, Charlotte, NC 28213)

This program serves youth ages 5 to 18 and provides them with the FUNdamentals of music education and  mentorship through free weekly group piano classes. 

DANCE COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM FOR SENIORS

Presented by Movement Migration
When: Tuesdays and Fridays from January 16 through June 25
Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center (14008 Holbrooks Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078)

This series of dance and movement practices is accompanied by a live musician every* Tuesday and Friday from 9-10 AM from January 16th to June 28th. *No class on Friday, March 31st. 

Professional dancers, educators, and teaching artists will teach different movement practices: modern dance, ballet, yoga, and somatic (an approach that focuses on mind-body awareness) practices to participants.

DANCE WITHOUT LIMITS

Presented by Order My Steps
When: Tuesdays (10am) from January 16 – June 11
Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center (14008 Holbrooks Road, Huntersville, NC 28078)

When: Wednesdays (10:30am) from January 17 – June 12
Where: Southview Recreation Center (1720 Vilma St, Charlotte, NC 28208)

When: Fridays (10am) from January 19 – June 14
Where: Crews Recreation Center (1201 Crews Road, Matthews, NC 28105)

When: Fridays (12pm) from January 19 – June 14
Where: Northern Regional Recreation Center (18121 Old Statesville Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031)

Dance Without Limits is a senior dance class designed for all mobility levels. Improve your strength, flexibility, and coordination while exploring new genres of movement. Our goal is to promote health and wellness, community, and creativity through the art of dance. No matter where you are on your movement journey there is a place for you.

Leadership Development Workshop

Presented by Over The Counter Improv
When: March 23, March 25 and April 6

Where: Pineville Library (505 Main St. Ste. 100, Pineville, NC 28134)

When: March 11 (6:30 p.m.), April 17 (6 p.m.)
Where: Mint Hill Library (6840 Matthews – Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227)

When: March 7, April 4 (6 p.m.)
Where: Matthews Library (230 Matthews Station St., Matthews, NC 28105)

For ages 18-60. Leaders and teams today need business tools to help strengthen quick-thinking skills, enhance active listening, improve adaptability during unforeseen circumstances, and most importantly, use a sense of humor to encourage people to be creative, take risks, and nurture customer and coworker relationships.

Paul and Kelly’s team building and leadership development workshops teach all of these skills by nurturing the right side of the brain in a refreshingly candid course. By fusing science, improv, creativity, and humor together, leaders and teams leave the event with exercises and takeaways that can be practiced at home instantly.

Developing Tomorrow's Leaders Today

Presented by Over The Counter Improv
When: March 10, April 21 (2 p.m.)

Where: Belle Johnston Community Center (1000 Johnston Dr., Pineville, NC 28134)

When: March 29 (12:30 p.m.)
Where: Southview Recreation Center (1720 Vilma St, Charlotte, NC 28208)

When: March 16, April 13, May 18, June 8 (12 p.m.)
Where: Hickory Grove Library (5935 Hickory Grove Rd., Charlotte, NC 28215)

When: March 28, April 15 (6 p.m.)
Where: Matthews Library (230 Matthews Station St., Matthews, NC 28105)

Leadership Development and Self-Confidence workshop for students from the ages of 10 to 18. OTC improv teaches self-confidence and leadership skills by nurturing the right side of the brain through a unique and hilarious form of improvisation.

This class improves: Creativity / Leadership Skills / Self-Confidence / Listening Skills

Train Your Brain Workshop (Ages 60+)

Presented by Over The Counter Improv
When: April 18 (10:30 a.m.)
Where: Southview Recreation Center (1720 Vilma St, Charlotte, NC 28208)

When: April 22 (10 a.m.)
Where: University City Library (301 East W.T. Harris Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28262)

OTC improv teaches folks how to improve cognitive skills by nurturing the right side of the brain through a unique and hilarious form of improvisation.​

This class helps: Strengthen neural connections / Enhance humor /  Understand the power of play on the brain / Make new synaptic pathways

At any age, the brain is malleable and the OTC improv workshop provides exercises to strengthen neural pathways to help with quick-thinking skills, active listening, and most importantly, find humor in everyday events. By combining science, improv, creativity, and humor together, everyone leaves the event with exercises and takeaways that can be practiced at home instantly.

EXPLORE: ARTIST IDENTITY & BRANDING WORKSHOP

Presented by Dear Soul Music Co
When: January 23 through February 13
Where: Virtual

This is a 4-week experience is for artists at all levels via ZOOM.

In this series, participants learn healthy marketing and branding skills to aid them in identifying their unique positioning as creatives within the marketplace. Instruction is led by Charlotte-based singer-songwriter, recording artist, and owner of Dear Soul Music Co., ARSENA.

Jazz For All

Presented by Ziad Jazz Quartet
When: January 25 through June 27
Where: Tyvola Senior Center (2225 Tyvola Rd., Charlotte, NC 28210)

The Jazz for All Educational Concert Series, featuring the Ziad Jazz Quartet, will educate and inspire appreciation for improvisational jazz music. Each month will feature a different artist’s music, and audience members will learn through performance and discussion about the artist and the history and significance of jazz as a music genre. January’s concert is a tribute to the music of Duke Ellington.

Time: 4 p.m.
Dates: Jan. 25 / Feb. 22 / Mar. 28 / April 25 / May 23 / June 27

ART, MUSIC & POETRY WORKSHOPS

Presented by Guerilla Poets
When: January 27 through June 22
Where: Southview Rec Center and Goodyear Arts

Join Guerilla Poets for free amazing art, poetry and music workshops.

Every 1st Saturday of the month at Southview Rec Center (1720 Vilma St, Charlotte, NC 28208) from 11:30am – 12:30pm.

Every 4th Saturday of the month at Goodyear Arts (301 Camp Rd #200, Charlotte, NC 28206) from 11:30am – 12:30pm.

All ages welcome, and supplies will be provided.

Wind Down Wednesday

Presented by Adele Greenfield
When: January 31 through May 15
Where: Berewick Recreation Center (5910 Dixie River Road, Charlotte, NC 28278)

Relax, renew, and re-energize. Express your artistic self with a transformative and meditative art experience through various art forms for stress management, wellness, and social connection. All skill levels welcome!

Wednesdays, Jan. 31, Feb. 21, Mar. 20, Apr. 17, May 15.

Register online or call Berewick Recreation Center at 980-314-1102.

Clogging for Joy and Fitness: Dance to the Beat

Presented by Adele Greenfield
When: Fridays (10:30am) from January through June
Where: Berewick Recreation Center (5910 Dixie River Road, Charlotte, NC 28278)

Tap those feet while dancing to upbeat popular songs and traditional tunes reflecting the history of the dance. Borrowing from tap and Irish dance, you’ll improve cardio fitness, core strength, flexibility, and balance. All skill levels welcome!

Fridays, 10:30am – 11:25am

Register online or call Berewick Recreation Center at 980-314-1102.

Johnny Q's Cardio Dance Party

Presented by Quisol Productions
When:  January 20, February 10 and March 2
Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center(14008 Holbrooks Rd., Huntersville, NC 28078)

Get ready to dance your heart out and have a blast with our energetic and fun-filled cardio dance workout. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this event is perfect for everyone!

You’ll be sweating, smiling, and grooving to the beat in no time! Johnny Q’s Cardio Dance Party is a great way to get fit, burn calories, and improve your cardiovascular health. Not only will you have a fantastic time, but you’ll also be improving your coordination, flexibility, and endurance. It’s the ultimate dance party workout!

Questions? Contact Joseph Quisol at 704-248-1992 or by email at joseph@quisol.co

Pueblos: Bilingual Storytime for Children

Presented by Criss Cross Mangosauce
When: March 7 (4:30 p.m.) March 16 (11 a.m.)
Where: Fullwood Theater (100 E McDowell St, Matthews, NC 28105)

When: March 13 & 20 (5 p.m.)
Where: Emerald Bay Apartments Club House (5029 Cherrycrest Ln., Charlotte, NC 28217)

Ven a este taller gratuito para celebrar, compartir y conectar a tus hijos con tu lengua materna, la riqueza cultural y folklore de América Latina y otros países del mundo. Este será un taller/show divertido y educativo lleno de canciones, cuentos, rimas, juegos, obras cortas de teatro y danzas tradicionales en inglés y en español. Para padres con hijos de 3 a 8 años preferiblemente pero abierto a toda la familia.

Children will embrace and explore the many elements of their home language! Be inspired by the wealth and folklore of Latin America and beyond. This will be a fun and educational show/workshop full of songs, stories, rhymes, games, short plays and traditional dances in English and Spanish. For parents with children between 3 and 8 years old preferable but open to the whole family.
 
Info e inscripción/registration: ccmangosauce@gmail.com.
Big Band Concert Series

Presented by Dapper Street

When: March 30 (6 p.m.)
Where: Matthews Community Center (100 McDowell St East, Matthews, NC 28105)

When: April 27 (2 p.m.)
Gracious Living Adult Day & Health Care (7950 Nations Ford Rd. Charlotte, NC)

When: May 25 (2 p.m.)
Where: Berewick Recreational Center (5910 Dixie River Road, Charlotte, NC 28278)

When: June 22 (2 p.m.)
Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center (14008 Holbrooks Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078)

Dapper Street Presents the Dapper Street Jazz Orchestra Concert Series featuring Gena Chambers, A Sign of the Times and Jazziando Latin Jazz Band.

EXPLORE: BEGINNER GUITAR WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTS

Presented by Dear Soul Music Co
When: Thursdays, February 15 through March 7 (6pm)
Where: Huntersville Town Hall building (101 Huntersville-Concord Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078) 

When: March 18 through April 8 (6pm)
Where: Tuckaseegee Recreation Center (4820 Tuckaseegee Rd, Charlotte, NC 28208)

In this 4-week course, adults are invited to explore and deepen their guitar playing in a group environment with lead instruction by Charlotte-based session musician & recording artist, Brosnan Granger.

For participants that do not own a guitar, 10 guitars are available on reserve at no cost to ensure accessibility. This course provides foundational lessons & exercises while playing in a friendly group setting.

EXPLORE: SONGWRITING WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTS

Presented by Dear Soul Music Co
When: Thursdays, March 21 – April 11 (6pm)
Where: Dellwood Community Center (508 Dellwood Dr, Huntersville, NC 28078)

The EXPLORE: Songwriting Workshop is a 4-week course hosted by Dear Soul Music Co. In this free course, adults ages 18+ are invited to explore and deepen their songwriting skills with instruction by Charlotte recording artist, ARSENA and Huntersville singer-songwriter and band leader, Nathan Storey. This course encourages collaboration & provides instrumental backing tracks (instruments are welcome too), and exercises for combating writer’s block.

EXPLORE: Community Concert (Lunchtime Edition)

Presented by Dear Soul Music
When: March 12 and April 12 (11am)
Where: Tuckaseegee Rec Center (4820 Tuskaseegee Rd., Charlotte, NC 28208)

Join us at 11am-12:30pm for a FREE full-band community concert series featuring local talent hosted by Dear Soul Music Co.

Light refreshments will be served by Tuckaseegee Rec. Guests are welcome to bring their own lunches during concert time.

Questions? Email info@dearsoulmusic.co

Olé España

Presented by Carlotan Talents
When: March 23 (12 p.m.)
Where: Camp North End (Boileryard Area)

Celebrate authentic Spanish cuisine and culture on Saturday March 23rd at Olé España, featuring live performances by Vadim Kolpakov Group and Sincopao Flamenco, a paella cooking demonstration, delicious sangria and Spanish wine selections at a one-of-a-kind experience.

Empanada Fest

Presented by Carlotan Talents
When: April 6 (12 p.m.)
Where: Camp North End (Boileryard Area)

Come and taste your way around Latin America’s famous pastry turnovers at the third Annual Empanada fest in the Queen City!
EXPLORE: COMMUNITY CONCERT SERIES

Presented by Dear Soul Music Co
When: April 26 (6pm)

Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center (14008 Holbrooks Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078)

Dear Soul Music Co Presents the EXPLORE: Community Concert Series (formerly known as the Unplugged+Live Concert Series)! This touring concert series features live performances featuring local and touring talent and music artist community meet & greets in a listening-room environment.

Outdoor Concert “Feel it with Music by Latin Band Café Amaretto”

Presented by Ana Lucia Divins
When: Saturday, June 15 (2:30pm)
Where: Matthews Library (230 Matthews Station St., Matthews, NC 28105)

Join the Latin band Café Amaretto as they share heartfelt songs (in Spanish and English) connecting you with a myriad of feelings, rhythms and moods. Featuring: Ana Lucia Divins (Singer/Facilitator), Carlos Crespo (Guitar), Edgar Marcano (Drums), Carlos Baez (Bass), Jorge “Luigi” Martinez (Percussion).