Arts

From page to pulse: Celebrating El'J, legacy of J Dilla

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Tuesday, 11 February 2025

Written by Amber Little

Fayetteville get ready for a weekend of poetry and music. El'J, one of the city's favorite poets, is finally releasing his highly anticipated book of poetry, El'J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla.
Festivities kick off at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 21 with the El'J Dilla Poetry Slam at The Sweet Palette. Listen as 14 North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia poets compete in 3 rounds for a cash prize and bragging rights. Spinning on the 1’s and 2’s is Wilmington’s own DJ Big B from Coast 97.3 and hosting is the brilliant poet, author, and lyricist, Ebony Payne. This event is free to the public.
Saturday marks the biggest part of the weekend-long celebration, with the official book release party at The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County with special guest, Maureen “Ma Dukes” Yancey, the mother of the late J Dilla and Detroit native.
At 7 p.m., guests will be treated to a night of live music, spoken word, and a discussion panel. Local radio personality and Queen of the stage, Dominque Womack will moderate. Comedian and veteran advocate, Dennis V will hit the stage for some laughs.
Emmy award winner Boris Rogers and the incomparable Stephanie Lask (Sheph Love) will bring their soulful sounds and voices to the stage, setting the tone for a night sure to please the visual and auditory palate. El'J will be performing excerpts from his book as well as signing copies. Performances by other award-winning poets, Nazir Jones (Harvard University) and Piedmont Poet Laureate, Dasan Ahanu will round out the evening. Tickets are free, but space is limited.
Register to attend this event at http://eljdillabookrelease.eventbrite.co. Closing out the festivities is the El'J Dilla Weekend Brunch at the Sip Room located at 106 Hay Street from noon to 3 p.m. Attendees will indulge in a luxury brunch buffet in the swanky ambiance of the lux wine bar.
Local DJ, Greg GMoniy Johnson will be spinning the records and keeping the vibe of the weekend with J Dilla classics. “Ma Dukes” Yancey will end the weekend celebration of not only El'J’s book release, but her son’s life and legacy as the guest speaker, sharing stories that only a mother can share. This event is the only one ticketed. Tickets are $42 per person and can be purchased online at http://eljdillabrunch.eventbrite.com.
El’Ja, as he is professionally known, has been writing and performing poetry seriously since his departure from the military. El’Ja has countless awards and accolades under his belt, including the 2nd Annual McDonalds Food for Thought Poetry Slam, Southern Fried (as a member of the Bull City Slam Team), individual slams, and The Campaign for Change Slam, just to name a few.
This year marks a monumental year for his Southeast Regional Poetry Slam, celebrating 13 years. The release of his book, El'J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla, has been years in the making and is a project that combines two of the poet's favorite things, poetry, and J Dilla music.
“El’J Dilla weekend is the combination of a few things. Number one is the release of my book, El'J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla. If you don’t know who J Dilla is, go by his real name James Yancey, originally from Detroit, Michigan.
"He’s your favorite producers’ favorite producer and worked with everybody from Janet Jackson, Tribe Called Quest, Common, and D’Angelo. He was like a ghost producer on the Voodoo album. A lot of people don’t know that. He passed away from Lupus, but his music and his production live on,” El’J said. “I had a chance of writing these poems three years ago and it was an idea that came from my wife wanting me to do a mix tape. I decided to write his mom a message on Facebook just saying ‘hey I want to honor your son by doing this book because his music changed me.’ She saw the message, she set up a Zoom and we talked from there. She wrote the forward for the book … There are two ways you can read this book. You get the poems, and you read the book. That's it. It’s a good book. Then in the back, it’s a tracklist, in order, based on the poems you have, a poem based on the track. Now the other way you can read this is that there is a playlist called El’J Dilla on Youtube that you can read the poems to the music.”
El’J has no plans to slow down anytime soon. He’s headed to Knoxville, Tennessee with the Detour Slam team to compete, hoping to bring the trophy to Fayetteville this year, along with several poetry slams and readings.

(Photo: El' J Dilla: Poems Inspired by the Music of J Dilla, is being celebrated duirng El' J Dilla Weekend, Feb. 21-23 in Fayetteville.)

Cameo Art House Theatre's films in February

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Tuesday, 04 February 2025

Written by Adam Taylor

A Powerful Film Series for Black History Month
• Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing – Thursday, February 13, 7:30 PM
• Christopher Everett’s Wilmington on Fire – Wednesday, February 19, 7:30 PM
DO THE RIGHT THING (1989)
Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing remains one of the most groundbreaking and provocative films in cinematic history, tackling the complex themes of race, community, and social justice. Set on the hottest day of the year in Brooklyn’s vibrant Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood, the film captures the simmering tensions of a diverse community as minor conflicts snowball into larger confrontations. The story explores the intricate dynamics of race relations, personal responsibility, and systemic inequality, culminating in a powerful and unforgettable conclusion that continues to resonate today.
Fayetteville local and published poet El’Ja Bowens highlights the enduring significance of this film, stating, “Do The Right Thing explores race, power, and community, offering a searing social commentary. It’s a thought-provoking film that can spark essential conversations about social justice and equity. Its relevance to current events makes it a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the world we live in.”
The film features an outstanding ensemble cast, including Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Giancarlo Esposito, John Turturro, and Spike Lee himself. Their performances bring the characters to life with nuance and depth, reflecting the hopes, frustrations, and humanity of the community they represent. This two-hour masterpiece challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths while asking, “What does it mean to truly do the right thing?”
WILMINGTON ON FIRE (2015)
North Carolina’s own Christopher Everett delivers a powerful documentary in Wilmington on Fire, a film that unearths a deeply buried and tragic chapter of American history: the 1898 Wilmington Massacre. This violent coup d’état, led by white supremacists, overthrew the legally elected multiracial government of Wilmington, North Carolina, and established an enduring legacy of racial violence and systemic oppression. Everett’s work not only reveals the brutal events of that day but also explores their far-reaching consequences for both North Carolina and the nation.
Longtime Cameo patron John explains why this documentary is crucial viewing: “You should see Wilmington on Fire if you haven’t because it tells a history about North Carolina that most people don’t know. It’s important to understand the events of 1898 and how they still impact us today. Learning this history helps us grasp the roots of systemic racism and the ongoing challenges we face as a society.”
Through compelling interviews with historians, descendants of victims, and community leaders, Wilmington on Fire delivers a sobering and deeply moving exploration of historical truth. It sheds light on a story intentionally suppressed for over a century, challenging audiences to confront the realities of America’s racial past. This documentary is a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and learning from history to build a more equitable future.
Why These Films Matter
Together, Do The Right Thing and Wilmington on Fire provide two powerful and distinct perspectives on race, history, and social justice in America. While Do The Right Thing examines the intricate dynamics of a modern-day urban community, Wilmington on Fire uncovers a pivotal historical event with implications that echo through the present. Both films challenge viewers to reflect on issues of equity, systemic injustice, and the ways we can work towards a better future.
Celebrate Black History Month by experiencing these two films. Tickets are available now at the Cameo Art House Theater or on their website.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Casablanca
This Valentine’s Day, experience romance, intrigue, and nostalgia with a special screening of Casablanca at Fayetteville’s historic Cameo Art House Theatre. A timeless classic beloved by generations, Casablanca is the perfect way to celebrate love in the heart of a community deeply connected to its themes of duty, sacrifice, and passion.
Special Event Showtimes:
• Friday, February 14: 8:00 PM
• Saturday, February 15: 4:00 PM
Why Casablanca is the Ultimate Valentine’s Date Movie
Few films capture the complexities and beauty of love as perfectly as Casablanca. At its heart, it’s a story about love tested by time, war, and impossible choices. The iconic romance between Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) and Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman) transcends the screen, reminding us that love often means sacrifice and that true connection can endure even in the face of heartbreak.
As you and your loved one watch Rick and Ilsa’s bittersweet journey unfold, you’ll find yourself swept away by the passion, longing, and nostalgia of one of the most romantic films in cinematic history.
Set in the exotic, tension-filled backdrop of wartime Casablanca, the movie creates a dreamy atmosphere perfect for a Valentine’s date. Add to that its unforgettable dialogue and the hauntingly beautiful “As Time Goes By,” and you’ve got a cinematic experience that’s as timeless as love itself.
A Special Connection to Fayetteville and Fort Liberty
The themes of love and duty in Casablanca resonate deeply with Fayetteville, home to Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg). Released during World War II, the film became a symbol of resilience and sacrifice for countless military families. Its depiction of the struggles and choices faced by those living in uncertain times mirrors the experiences of service members and their loved ones.
By hosting this screening, the Cameo Art House Theatre brings a piece of that history to life, allowing our community to reflect on its own connections to the film’s enduring message.
A Magical Evening at the Cameo
The Cameo Art House Theatre offers the perfect romantic setting for this Valentine’s Day experience. Nestled in downtown Fayetteville, the theater’s vintage charm and intimate atmosphere make it the ideal spot to celebrate with your loved one. Indulge in wine, beer, and gourmet treats from the concession stand as you cozy up for an unforgettable evening. My personal suggestion is to have a nice dinner at Pierro's Italian Bistro or Antonella's Italian Ristorante, see a movie at the Cameo and then end the night with coffee and cake at Rude Awakening Coffee House; all on Hay Street!
Event Details
• Location: Cameo Art House Theatre, 225 Hay Street, Fayetteville, NC
• Tickets: Available online or at the box office. Seats are limited, so secure yours now!
Film Information
• Directed By: Michael Curtiz
• Written By: Julius J. Epstein, Howard Koch, Murray Burnett
• Starring: Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid
• Rated PG | Runtime: 1 hr 42 min
Don’t Miss Out!
Whether you’re rekindling an old flame, creating new memories, or simply looking for the perfect romantic night out, Casablanca at the Cameo is an event you won’t want to miss. Celebrate love, honor its sacrifices, and step into the magic of one of the most iconic films of all time.
Reserve your tickets today, and let the magic of Casablanca make this Valentine’s Day one to remember. After all, “We’ll always have Paris.”

(Posters courtesy of the Cameo Art House Theatre)

Transitions at GroundSwell Pictures: A New Chapter Begins

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Tuesday, 11 February 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

GroundSwell Pictures embarks on a leadership transition as founders Jan Johnson and Pat Wright pass the torch to new leaders, ensuring the continued success and growth of the Indigo Moon Film Festival.
A Legacy of Inspiration: Jan Johnson and Pat Wright
Jan Johnson and Pat Wright, co-founders of GroundSwell Pictures, have been pivotal figures in the organization’s journey. Their dedication to using film as a medium to educate, inspire, and entertain has left an indelible mark on the community. Over the years, they have tirelessly worked to establish the Indigo Moon Film Festival as a cherished cultural event, celebrating diverse voices in filmmaking and fostering a strong sense of community.
Their contributions to the arts have been recognized with numerous awards, highlighting their commitment and passion. Among these accolades is the establishment of the Film Inspires Change Award in Johnson’s honor, a testament to their enduring impact. While they are stepping aside from their leadership roles, Johnson and Wright will remain active supporters of GroundSwell Pictures, continuing to champion its mission and values.
Welcoming New Leadership: Brandon Plotnick and Erika Forbes
On Jan. 1, Brandon Plotnick and Erika Forbes assumed leadership of GroundSwell Pictures. Both bring a wealth of experience, energy, and a shared passion for the arts that align perfectly with the mission of the Indigo Moon Film Festival. Their dedication to the arts and their vision for the future promise to build on the strong foundation laid by Johnson and Wright.
Plotnick expressed his excitement about the new role, stating, “It’s an honor to be taking on this role after Jan and Pat did so much to make this festival matter in our arts community.”
Forbes echoed this sentiment, saying, “Jan and Pat have left big shoes to fill, but I’m so excited we get to continue bringing their vision to this community.”
Ensuring a Seamless Transition for Future Success
The transition of leadership at GroundSwell Pictures will be carefully managed to ensure continuity and a seamless handover. The board of directors, staff, and volunteers are all committed to supporting Plotnick and Forbes as they step into their new roles, ensuring that the organization’s mission and values remain at the forefront.
This thoughtful approach to the transition underscores the organization’s commitment to its community and stakeholders, ensuring that the Indigo Moon Film Festival continues to thrive and grow under the new leadership.
The Continued Mission of the Indigo Moon Film Festival
The Indigo Moon Film Festival has become a highlight of the cultural calendar, celebrating diverse voices in filmmaking and fostering a strong sense of community. Under the new leadership of Plotnick and Forbes, the festival will continue to uphold its mission of using the power of film to educate, inspire, and entertain.
The festival’s potential to inspire change and bring the community together remains a cornerstone of GroundSwell Pictures’ vision. With fresh perspectives and new ideas, the festival is poised to continue its tradition of excellence and innovation.
Submissions for the 2025 film festival opened November 1, 2024. The early bird deadline to submit films is April 1 and the regular deadline is May 1. For more information on deadlines and how to submit a piece, visit the Indigo Moon Film Festival website at https://filmfreeway.com/IndigoMoonFilmFestival.
Celebrating the Past and Embracing the Future
As GroundSwell Pictures embarks on this new chapter, it is a time to celebrate the incredible legacy of Jan Johnson and Pat Wright. Their vision and dedication have laid a strong foundation for the future, and their impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
At the same time, the organization looks forward to embracing the future with Plotnick and Forbes at the helm. Their leadership promises to bring new energy and ideas, ensuring that GroundSwell Pictures and the Indigo Moon Film Festival continue to be vital parts of the local and global film community.

A musical journey through Black History with CCA

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Tuesday, 04 February 2025

Written by Amber Little

There is no denying the influence of black culture in America. While “the culture” is celebrated all year, February is a time to highlight its powerful impact on American history and the popular trends it has and continues to create.
From Willie Mae “Big Mama” Thornton to Prince, Black Americans have and continue to set the standard in the industry. Join the Cumberland Choral Arts and take a journey through Black History at the fifth annual Lift Every Voice and Sing concert on Saturday, Feb. 15th at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church located at 1601 Raeford Rd. at 7 p.m.
This year’s show theme is Love Songs and will highlight some of the best of old school R&B from the ‘70s, ‘80s and early ‘90s. The concert will also feature poetry, monologues, and spoken word.
LEVAS founder, Cumberland Choral Arts member and Board Member, Brenda Vandervort-Miller started this event in 2020 with a very particular concept in mind.
She explained “After attending a few Black History events when I moved here in 2008, I noticed there didn’t seem to be any mention of historical Black Americans whose contributions to our history included the arts or music. This was an idea that I’ve had for several years. But the real inspiration came from watching Beyoncé’s Homecoming on Netflix the summer of 2019. When she began to sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing” a lightbulb went off, and I began to jot down some thoughts. Before I knew it, I had a complete program to present to the CCA Board.
"They overwhelmingly supported the idea and here we are, 5 years later. [This year] We’ll be highlighting some of the R&B giants like Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, and Luther Vandross. There will be a few surprises as well that we’re very excited for.”
The Cumberland Choral Arts has been providing quality and culturally relevant concerts since 1991.
“Cumberland Choral Arts is a community symphonic choir, comprised of singers from within the Sandhills region. We typically perform 4 concerts a year, to include our holiday tradition of a joint production of Handel’s Messiah with Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra,” she said.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students and can be purchased at https://bit.ly/4hEMey9
The next big concert for CCA is a joint concert with Grey’s Creek High School Chorus Program on March 9 at Grey’s Creek High School, a can’t-miss event “covering” all the classics.
“Our next event will be our Covers concert, where we’re partnering with Gray's Creek High School. For this show we’ll be performing Pop, Rock, and R&B hits, including a few from Queen, and Earth Wind and Fire!” Vandervort-Miller said.
This concert will feature special guest The Guy Unger Band. Rolling into the summer, CCA will hold a special pre-Carngie Hall screening of Morten Laurisen’s Lux Aeterna at First Presbyterian Church (102 Ann Street) on May 17 at 7:30 p.m.
For more information about the Cumberland Choral Arts and upcoming events visit the website at https://www.cumberlandchoralarts.org/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CumberlandChoralArts.

(Photo: Joy Vandervort-Cobb, a special guest, performs during Lift Every Voice and Sing in 2024. The concert has been a Fayetteville staple since 2020.)