It's a big weekend with outstanding weather predicted. I've found that great music, free trees, and Kinky Boots are on the horizon. First off, starting tonight, music from some of the biggest black entertainers of the recent past. The Carver Cultural Center's Teresa Vasquez-Romero:
"Etta James, Sarah Vaughn and Dinah Washington."
And where those talents played had a compelling name: it was called the Chitlin' Circuit. Back in the segregation era, these were clubs where black talent was welcome.
"The Eastwood Club, the Keyhole Club and what is now the Carver Community Cultural Center."
The event is called Divas of Eastwood and it's one part history, three parts music.
"In essence it's more of a tribute to all of these great musicians and vocalists of that era."
Then on Saturday morning get to know your fruits and nuts.
"Gala apples, Blenheim apricots, Kieffer pears..."
The city's Jennifer Sanchez talking about the trees they'll be giving away Saturday morning at the Pearl Farmer's Market. They're first come, first served, and there's just one tree per family.
"This year we're going to be giving away about 1,500."
While that sounds like a lot of trees, keep in mind, this annual program always runs out before everyone gets a tree. Ms. Sanchez has some advice.
"We encourage them to get there early because people start lining up at 6:30, 6:45 in the morning."
Then at the Majestic Theater, the Broadway Smash Kinky Boots. Did you know this?
"It's based on a true story. It was a documentary first, then a film."
Actor Tiffany Engen pretty well steals the show. And she says the multiple Tony Award-winning musical has an interesting pedigree.
"Having Cyndi Lauper write the music is really the biggest treat of all."
While the play is about how a shoe factory retools itself to cater to drag queens, the show seems less kinky than its title.
"I think one of the best messages of the show is when Don says you change the world when you change your mind."
We have more on the Divas of Eastwood here.
For more on the city's tree giveaway program go here.
For more on the Pearl Farmer's Market go here.
For more on Kinky Boots go here.
