THIS WEEK IN SOUTH SEATTLE — ART OF SOUL Gallery Opening, Up From The Table, “Young, Gifted, and Black” Closing Exhibit Party, and More!

by Emerald Staff

Thurs., Sept. 26:

RainierAvenueRadio.World’s ART OF SOUL Gallery Grand Opening

“You are invited to the Grand Opening of the RainierAvenueRadio.World ART OF SOUL Gallery!

“Art of Soul Gallery is dedicated to showcasing individual creativity and artistic expression for beginning, emerging, and experienced artists. Art of Soul Gallery artist exhibits explore and discover the unique ability to inspire deeper meanings.This event starts at Rainieravenueradio.world and then moves to the Art of Soul Gallery at 5250 Rainier Ave S.

Time: 5–8 p.m.
Where: Rainieravenueradio.world — 5256 Rainier Ave S.
Cost: FREE

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Fri., Sept. 27:

African American 2020 Census Coalition Kick Off

“Cierra Sisters is spearheading local efforts to head up the King County African-American 2020 Census Coalition.

“The U.S. Census is mandated by the United States Constitution every 10 years. More than $675 billion in federal funds is awarded to states and communities based on census data. Community planners and governments rely on census data to determine where there is most dire need for social services and who gets community development block grants, Medicaid, Pell Grant, Head Start, WIC, School Lunch Programs, etc. African-Americans are considered to be one of the hard to count populations. Elevated engagement and awareness strategies are essential to ensure they are counted.

“The meeting will establish an inclusive circle of community leaders, residents, businesses, and faith-based organizations focused on delivering impact census outreach. The Noble Foundation will facilitate a strategic planning session. Other key participants include the US Census Bureau, King County, City of Seattle, Black Lives Matter, and Washington Census Alliance. Marcus Harrison Green, Author and former Seattle Times Journalist will serve as the host. The meeting is open to the public.Event host Marcus Harrison Green is also the founder and former editor in chief of the South Seattle Emerald. 

Time: 10 a.m–1 p.m.
Where: Royal Esquire Club — 5016 Rainier Ave S.
Cost: FREE (RSVP)

PlayBack w/ Tres Leches, Dark Smith, Specswizard, & Black Ends

“Join us for a FREE concert featuring four PlayBack bands: Tres Leches, Dark Smith, Specswizard, and Black Ends. More information here. Check out the library’s streaming and downloadable local music collection here.” 21+

Time: 8:30 p.m.
Where: Clock-Out Lounge — 4864 Beacon Ave S.
Cost: FREE

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Carter Wilson Album Release Celebration + Cafe Red Benefit Show

“Free Show celebrating the release of Carter Wilson’s “!!!!! (Deluxe)” album. Everyone who attends will receive a free album download code~ **We are accepting donations for Cafe Red!**

“A couple months ago some of the speakers blew out so I want to turn this celebration into an opportunity to help raise money for a new sound system. Nobody will be turned away at the door but any amount of donation will go towards a fire new sound system that we will all benefit from in the near future. Cafe Red has been doing so much for the Othello community between organizing events, showcasing local artists, hosting meetings and other gatherings, and being an overall example of how to facilitate connection between artists and community, a new system will help ensure this space continues to prosper long into the future.

Featuring Performers: Skully Vega (Portland), Athr (Seattle), Kamppi (Seattle), Max Moodie (Seattle), Isadore Noir (NYC), Jaycob (Tacoma), Caesar The Martyr (Tacoma), and Carter Wilson. For updates follow me on instagram at @pupilsareblackholes.

Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Cafe Red — 7148 MLK Jr Way S.
Cost: By donation

Sat., Sept. 28:

Global Compassion Clinic

“FREE CLINIC EVERYONE! We are so proud to be hosting Global Compassion Clinic. Check out the flyer to see the services which will be offered. Drop in the day of the event.

Time: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Where: Southeast Seattle Senior Center — 4655 S. Holly St
Cost: FREE

Sistah Scifi: Midnight Robber by Nalo Hopkinson – Seattle

“Back by popular demand, we are discussing Midnight Robber and celebrating Octavia Bulter’s 72nd birthday!! Tickets include brunch served by Lil Red Catering!

Midnight Robber is a science fiction bildungsroman (coming-of-age novel) by Jamaican-Canadian writer Nalo Hopkinson. Warner Aspect published the novel in 2000. You may purchase your copy of Midnight Robber at http://www.sistahscifi.com.

It’s Carnival time and the Caribbean-colonized planet of Toussaint is celebrating with music, dance, and pageantry. Masked “Midnight Robbers” waylay revelers with brandished weapons and spellbinding words. To young Tan-Tan, the Robber Queen is simply a favorite costume to wear at the festival–until her power-corrupted father commits an unforgivable crime.

Suddenly, both father and daughter are thrust into the brutal world of New Half-Way Tree. Here monstrous creatures from folklore are real, and the humans are violent outcasts in the wilds. Tan-Tan must reach into the heart of myth and become the Robber Queen herself. For only the Robber Queen’s legendary powers can save her life … and set her free.

Time: 12–2:30 p.m.
Where: Cypher Cafe — 153 14th Ave
Cost: $1–12

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Image from Nisi Shawl’s article entitled: Mightier than the Gun: Nalo Hopkinson’s Midnight Robber.

Creative Justice | Up From The Table Opening Celebration

“From September 28- to November 24, 2019, Hedreen Gallery hosts Up From the Table, an exhibition of new work by artists and cultural organizers working with Creative Justice, an arts-based alternative to incarceration for young people in King County. The exhibition features photography, sculpture, textile and sound created by the youth artists of Creative Justice in collaboration with program mentor artists Dan Paz, Le’Ecia Farmer, Ashley Tiedeman and Olisa Enrico and program directors Aaron Counts and Nikkita Oliver. The work explores the human cost of mass incarceration and the school-to-prison pipeline.

“Much of the work is comprised of materials sourced from the local community at a mid-summer family dinner hosted at historic Washington Hall. There, attendees sat for family portraits, shared oral histories and contributed clothing items from those loved ones lost to the criminal-legal system. Up from the Table is an elegy for those people and a tribute to those left behind. It challenges us to reimagine what justice is and what it can be; to consider our current state of mass incarceration and ask not just How did we get here? But also, What toll does that take on our communities? ‘You must learn to leave the table when love is no longer being served.’ –Nina Simone

“IN THE ARTISTS’ WORDS: ‘The school to prison pipeline is real, and far too many of our youth—most of them black, brown, and poor—are jailed despite major research that shows juvenile incarceration does not make communities any safer.’”

Time: 4–6 p.m.
Where: Lee Center for the Arts (Hedreen Gallery) — 901 12th Ave
Cost: FREE

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Image: unusual suspects, large format photo on vinyl, by Creative Justice collective.

Graceland Manila “Tribute to the King”

“Known as one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century, as well as being one of the most influential performers/entertainers to American and world audiences, Elvis Presley’s presence and spirit continues on. Live music provided by GracelandManila “Tribute To The King,” is an entertaining, sentimental, and high energy tribute to “The King of Rock & Roll.” Tony Colinares, Seattle-based singer, actor, and musician brings the legendary persona to life. In 2016, he was voted “Seattle’s #1 Elvis” at the Seattle Elvis Invitationals. From the upbeat Rock & Roll and Blues, to the tender ballads, to the light-hearted wisecracks, you can always expect a fun-filled and lively performance that appeals to all ages, backgrounds, and musical tastes.

Time: 8 p.m.
Where: Perihelion Brewery — 2800 16th Ave S.
Cost: No Cover

“Young, Gifted, and Black” – Closing Exhibit Party

“Paying Homage To The Black Panther Party: Young, Gifted, and Black Photo Series. DJ Vitamin D. Drank: by Brown Liquor Cocktail. Food: Yummy Hand Pies

“Revolutionaries to the core, Black Panthers were inclusive of other minority groups as well as the inclusion of women as equal members. By the 70’s, women comprised a majority of the members of the BPP. In Seattle, the Carolyn Downs Family Medical Center is a remaining legacy of the BPP. UAC wanted to recognize the Seattle Chapter of The Black Panther Party who is a significant part of Seattle’s history. The images we captured are of children from the CD reenacting historical images of the BPP.

The Station has a bunch of other events this week. Check out their events schedule here.

Time: 7–10 p.m.
Where: The Station — 1600 S. Roberto Maestas Fest St
Cost: $5 suggested donation

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Image: Erica Sciarretta, Lamar Graham, and Soulma Ayers

Drag Queen Karaoke at Backyard

“Proudly presenting a new monthly Drag Queen Karaoke night in the heart of Columbia City. Kicking it off for you on Saturday, September 28 are our hostesses with the mostesses, DJ Baby Van Beezly and Queen Andrew Scott. If you’ve ever wanted to sing karaoke with a drag queen, this is your chance!

“Come enjoy a girthy song catalog, DJ BVB keeping the good vibes going between singers, and delish drink specials. Best news yet? We are keeping our doors open one hour later (until 1 a.m.) because it’s a Saturday celebration y’all and we’re ready to turn up!

“This event happens on the last Saturday of every month starting at 9 p.m. Check back for updates, themes, and special guests.

Time: 9 p.m.
Where: Backyard — 3820 S. Ferdinand St. Ste. 102
Cost: No Cover

Sun., Sept. 29:

Love thy neighbor – Columbia City

“Our community will not be intimidated by racists. There have been recent incidents involving racist propaganda being plastered over BLM signs. We as a community won’t stand for this. Please join us as we celebrate what makes Columbia City unique – we will hold affirming signs of love, acceptance and community on the corner of Rainier and Ferdinand in Columbia City from noon to three on Sunday September 29.

“We need to let our brothers and sisters from all communities know we stand with them. Please invite your friends, neighbors and community groups. Rain or shine.

Time: 12–3 p.m.
Where: Rainier Ave S. & S. Ferdinand St
Cost: FREE

La Historia en el barrio

“On September 29th we will host a community celebration to honor the Latino Culture and Heritage that took place just across the street from the FoGHI museum. Georgetown is lucky to be called home to many individuals that fought for equity, equality and justice and created cultural spaces all over Washington. Please join us September 29th 2pm to 7pm. Tortilla making demonstrations, Traditional food available, Community Art Project
Exhibit to enjoy. To volunteer or contribute to this event please email Rosario. Donations can be mailed to the Friends of Georgetown History Museum 6206 Carleton Ave S Seattle WA 98108.

Time: 2–7 p.m.
Where: Friends of Georgetown History — 6206 Carleton Ave S.
Cost: FREE

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Image origin unknown.

Wed., Oct. 2:

SJF NW Autumn POC-Potluck

“You are invited to our Autumn POCluck (that’s potluck for black, indigenous and people of color). This season we are partnering with Cafe Avole’s Avole Nights! As the days get colder and the nights get longer we invite you to warm up with us on October 2nd in South Seattle for an evening to enjoy great food, learn about upcoming events, share ideas, see old friends, and meet new people of color! There will be also be special musical performances and cultural food cooking demos. Mainly we want to hang out with you, and for you all to build with us and each other.

“Where: We’ll send you the address once you RSVP. Location: South Seattle, Rainier Beach area. Space is accessible by bus routes #7 and 9. There is free parking in the area. Location is within Othello Light Rail Station Via zone. Who: For friends and supporters of Social Justice Fund who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color

“Please note that this event is open to all who identify as Black, indigenous and as people of color (BIPOC). White allies, thanks for understanding the need for this BIPOC space. If you have questions or would like to organize with other white folks, please contact Rebecca Allen. Thank you for being part of the SJF NW community!” 

Time: 6–8 p.m.
Where: RSVP on Facebook for event location
Cost: Free to attend

SeriousFun: Us

“Jordan Peele delivers his second horror film with Us, a terrifying take on the what happens when the neglected have-nots decide they’re done being forced to live in the shadows and come to take the world for themselves. The critically acclaimed film mixes tense atmosphere with brutal action. Lupita Nyong’o and Winston Duke stand out as the middle class couple at the center of it all.

“After the show, join a panel of Central Cinema favorites including Abie Ekenezer and Isabella Price as they discuss classism in America, and how the film uses its horror to dig deeper into a subject often glossed over in mainstream films. There is an earlier showing of the film, sans-discussion, at 4:15 p.m.” 

Time: 7–10 p.m.
Where: Central Cinema — 1411 21st Ave
Cost: Find tickets here

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Open Mics!

Here’s a quick round-up of the ones we know about (listed in chronological order; list updated frequently):

Seattle’s Best Open Mic (Wednesdays)

Sistas Rock The Arts Open Mic (Thursdays)

Cafe Red’s Open Mic for All (Second Thursdays; see Facebook for next date)

Legacy Fridays Open Mic / Showcase (Second Fridays)

Tuesday Night Music Club (TNMC) Open Mic (Tuesdays)

Royal Esquire Club Open Mic Tuesdays (Tuesdays)

Freshest Roots Presents: Expresso Open Mic (First Fridays)

Inspired Child’s Children’s Open Mic (Fourth Saturdays)

And check out these comedy-specific open mics:

Joketellers Union (Wednesdays)

Stand Up Comedy Open Mic at Tippe & Drague (First Saturdays)

*Here’s a monthly comedy showcase too: Cafe Red’s We Got Jokes’s (Second Wednesdays, intermittently; see venue calendar

If karaoke is more your speed, check out these venues:

Bush Garden (Daily)

Clock-Out’s ggnzla Karaoke (Mondays)

Venus Karaoke (Room rentals)

**They also have karaoke at Marco Polo Bar & Grill in Georgetown on the weekends. 

THIS WEEK IN SOUTH SEATTLE Glossary:

*NOTAFLOF = “No one turned away for lack of funds”

DOS = Price day of show

Door = Price at the door

Adv. = Advance

GA = General Admission (no assigned seating)

FREE = As far as we can tell, you can show up and have fun without buying anything.

Free to Attend / No Cover
= We don’t think there’s a cost to attend, but you may feel enticed or expected to buy something or make a donation (especially if the event is at a bar or restaurant or is not-for-profit and/or a fundraiser).

RSVP = French acronym for “Please respond.” The hosts’ / venue encourage or require you to let them know you’re coming. There’s probably a link somewhere. 🙂

Family-Friendly = This is an event for the whole family.

All-Ages = People under 18- / 21-years may attend, but young children won’t necessarily enjoy this event.

Please follow individual event links and follow up with event venues / organizers to verify crucial event details.

To submit an event for inclusion in “This Week in South Seattle,” email us at editor@southseattleemerald.com. Help us out and include the event title, date, time, venue/address, cost, and a link to more information. Thank you!

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