Entertainment

Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy to haunt Cameo Theatre

11Downtown Fayetteville’s historic Cameo Art House Theatre will open its doors to the dark and mysterious world of Edgar Allan Poe for three nights only as the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy brings its immersive cocktail experience to town on March 20, 21, and 22.
This unique event blends live performance, craft cocktails, and the haunting works of one of America's greatest literary masters — creating a night of chilling entertainment unlike anything Fayetteville has ever seen.
The 90-minute experience pairs four of Poe’s most famous stories The Tell-Tale Heart, The Black Cat, The Raven, and The Masque of the Red Death with custom cocktails inspired by each tale. Dramatic retellings by "Poe historians" will transport audiences into the macabre worlds of madness, death, and mystery that made Poe’s works legendary — all while guests enjoy carefully crafted drinks that bring the stories to life through flavor.
The Evening's Signature Cocktails
First, The Pale Blue Eye captures the eerie imagery of The Tell-Tale Heart in liquid form. This light blue cocktail blends blueberry vodka, fresh lemon juice, rose syrup, and La Croix, offering a refreshing yet haunting start to the night.
Next, The Cocktail of Red Death draws inspiration from The Masque of the Red Death, serving up a vibrant, blood-red concoction made with 100-proof vodka, cherry herring, Benedictine liqueur, lime juice, pineapple juice, and bitters— a drink as decadent and foreboding as Prospero’s ill-fated masquerade.
The third drink of the night, Edgar's Twisted Brandy Milk Punch, offers a dark twist on a Southern classic. This rich, creamy cocktail blends Kentucky Bourbon and French Brandy with vanilla cream, milk syrup, and half and half, topped with a single star anise for a hint of spice and a touch of the unsettling.
Finally, the night closes with The Nevermore, a striking black and gold cocktail that pays tribute to Poe’s most famous poem, The Raven. This mysterious drink combines orange peach blossom vodka, lime juice, and secret spices, delivering a complex, slightly sweet finish that lingers long after the story ends.
What People Are Saying About the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy
The immersive evening has been praised for blending high-quality theatrical performances, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that brings Poe’s dark tales to life. While some guests note that the experience feels more like a dinner theater with drinks rather than a traditional speakeasy setting, the majority of reviews highlight the event's unique charm and spooky atmosphere.
Many reviewers praise the talented actors who perform dramatic retellings of Poe’s stories. The storytellers are described as captivating and charismatic, drawing the audience into the macabre worlds of madness and mystery. One past guest wrote, "The performances were absolutely mesmerizing — like stepping straight into one of Poe’s twisted tales."
The four custom cocktails have become a standout feature of the event. Each drink is designed to complement the story being told, adding an extra layer of immersion to the experience. Guests appreciate the attention to detail in both flavor and presentation.
“The cocktails were delicious and clever — the 'Pale Blue Eye' was so refreshing, and 'The Nevermore' was unlike any drink I've ever had."
With dim lighting, vintage decor, and a dark, gothic aesthetic, the speakeasy creates the perfect setting for Poe’s haunting stories. Guests describe the atmosphere as eerie, intimate, and theatrical, setting the stage for an unforgettable night. “From the moment you walk in, you feel like you've entered another world — one where Poe’s ghost might be hiding in the shadows.”
What sets the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy apart is its combination of theatre and craft cocktails. Instead of simply watching a performance or attending a tasting event, guests are fully immersed in a multi-sensory journey — part show, part cocktail hour, and entirely unforgettable.
If you're looking for a night of literature, libations, and a little touch of the macabre, the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy promises to be an experience like no other.
With limited seating at each performance, the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy offers an exclusive experience designed to feel as if guests have stumbled upon a secret gathering — one where the ghost of Poe himself might be lurking in the shadows.
Showtimes are set for 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, with six performances on Saturday from noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, and reservations are required. Tickets are available now at cameoarthouse.com. Don't wait — once these seats are gone, they’ll be gone... forevermore.

Fight hunger with Cumberland County CROP Hunger Walk

10Approximately one-third of the residents in Cumberland County have a challenge of food insecurity or limited access to healthy foods, according to Laura Lupton, local CROP Hunger Walk coordinator and Presbyterian pastor. The Cumberland County CROP Hunger Walk will take place in Downtown Fayetteville on March 30. The pre-walk activities begin at 2 p.m. and the step off is at 3 p.m. Hay Street United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church-Anderson are co-hosts of the event. Church World Service and Fayetteville Urban Ministry are partners in the walk. The fundraising goal is $20,000. The donations will provide funds for critical services such as emergency housing and food, addressing severe medical costs, and self-sufficiency resources.
Lupton shares the inspiration for the event.
“The CROP Hunger Walk inspires learning about local, global, innovative ways to create partnerships for the creation of healthy, safe futures. They are reminded about innovations in poverty relief such as building sand dams, cooperatives of women cultivating honey production, Friend-to-friend mentoring, and home repair skills for youth to help senior citizens age in place. My passion intersects my inspiration, many people personally know the financial hardship or loss from natural disasters such as Hurricane Matthew and Florence, persons who lost their jobs due to injury and illness, or downsizing. How do the persons of this population put food on the table?” Lupton said.
“Negative stereotypes imposed by society can impede successful economic and social navigation within the community. We come together in CROP to show solidarity and provide resources.”
Lupton talked about the length of the walk, focusing on the distance and what it represents.
“The design of CROP Hunger Walk is based on persons around the world who have to walk miles to have access to drinkable water. The length of CROP Walk was at one time ten miles. Ten miles was representative of the average distance for drinkable water in an emerging country. We walk in solidarity with these persons.”
In addition to the walk, CWS kits will also be available. These kits contain various supplies for those in need. For more information regarding CWS kits, visit https://www.CWSkits.org.
“We are passionate about the CROP Hunger Walk; we are increasing awareness of global and local poverty. No one is immune from being suddenly stripped of earthly comforts and finding themselves displaced and broke,” Lupton said.
“The Church World Service is experiencing the impacts of the abrupt and sweeping halt of the U.S. Agency of International Development (USAID). One of the impacts is dire consequences for many communities. Church World Service will be the only organization providing sustainable solutions to hunger and poverty. The annual CROP Hunger Walks raise significant funds for the critical work of Church World Service,” she said. “CROP Hunger Walk is open to anyone or any group who wants to participate. The past participants have been persons in strollers to mature citizens over one hundred.”
Participation in the CROP Hunger Walk is free; however, donations are welcome. The Facebook fundraiser connects to the participants' registration page so they can see their progress. Cash and checks can be turned in at the event.
“The CROP Hunger Walk is a great way to see our churches come together for a common goal of loving our neighbors. The Walk is a great way to meet our neighbors who care about the hurting and hungry in our area,” Lupton said.
Create a family and personal tradition by starting a team, donating, or being an individual walker. For more information, contact Lupton at 910-818-9938 or by email at CumberlandCropWalk@gmail.com. Updates can be found on the Fayetteville CROP Walk Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/FayettevilleCROPWalk/

(Photo: A participant in the CROP Hunger Walk in 2024 poses with a Hunger Fighter frame. The CROP Walk will take place in downtown Fayetteville. Photo courtesy of Laura Lupton)

Experience rhythmic excitement of "Mallet Madness"

17Get ready for an extraordinary musical journey as the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra proudly presents "Mallet Madness," an enchanting concert that will transport audiences into the mesmerizing realm of percussion instruments.
This exceptional performance, taking place on March 14 and 15, promises to be a feast for both the ears and eyes as talented musicians showcase their mastery over various mallet instruments, from the resonant marimba to the shimmering vibraphone.
The historic Haymount United Methodist Church, located at 1700 Fort Bragg Rd., provides the perfect acoustic setting for this unique musical experience. Concert-goers are invited to arrive early when doors open at 6:30 p.m., allowing time to settle into the beautiful venue and peruse the evening's program before the performance begins at 7:30 p.m.
"Mallet Madness" promises to be an extraordinary musical experience under the expert direction of Dr. Daniel McCloud, who serves as both the assistant director and accomplished percussionist of the FSO. This captivating performance will bring together eight masterful musicians who will demonstrate their virtuosity on an impressive variety of percussion instruments. The carefully curated program weaves together rich, resonant harmonies and compelling rhythmic patterns that will mesmerize audiences.
Featured prominently are the innovative works of the celebrated contemporary composer Steve Reich, known for his groundbreaking contributions to percussion music. The concert will also highlight original compositions by FSO's own talented Dr. McCloud, creating a perfect balance between established masterworks and fresh musical perspectives. This unique chamber music experience showcases the full spectrum of percussion's expressive possibilities.
Whether you're a percussion enthusiast or simply looking for an evening of extraordinary music, this concert is not to be missed. Both performances will feature the same repertoire, allowing you to choose the evening that best fits your schedule.
Tickets can be purchased online at https://ci.ovationtix.com/36404/production/1198899, by contacting the FSO office at 910-433-4690 or at the door the night of the concert.
Discounts are available for seniors, military personnel, college students, children, and Cumberland County Schools employees, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this spectacular event.
Don’t miss out on an evening of mesmerizing music and experience the vibrant world of percussion with the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra.

(Photo courtesy of Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra)

North Carolina Spring Home Expo inspires homeowners

9With spring around the corner and temperatures warming, you may be feeling motivated to tackle more than the typical spring cleaning project. Does your kitchen need modernization? What about that old tile shower? Maybe there’s something more pressing, like gutters that aren’t doing their job.
Whatever upgrade you’re pondering, the North Carolina Spring Home Expo is a wealth of expertise and resources for any homeowner. Steven Neft, Marketing Representative with the Expo, said that the lineup of exhibitors is perfect for anyone looking to renovate, build, or decorate their home.
“You get to meet with representatives from these companies and gain inspiration on what you want to do for the spring and summer months at your home,” he said.
He explained that the Expo appeals to a wide array of needs.
“Whether you want to repaint your home, if you want to add lighting, if you want to fix your roof, these are all things people that are looking at, also kitchen and bathroom renovations are very big on everybody's list for the spring, summer, fall months.”
While some homeowners prefer tackling renovations and upgrades spontaneously, some prefer planning in advance. Neft says the Expo is for both. Lovers of spontaneity can visit without any pre-planning. The event and parking are both free, and no tickets are required for entry. For visitors who want more predictability, the vendor list will be published the week of the Expo at northcarolinahomeexpo.com. From there, you can identify ahead of time the specific vendors you wish to visit.
Neft explained that meeting vendors in person can inform decisions that are otherwise hard.
“We're all kind of reluctant sometimes to have people come to our home. But if you then meet these people first at the show, you get a better feeling. So it's a great opportunity to connect with people who could help you with those projects,” he said.
Visitors can fuel their search for the perfect home renovation project by visiting the food trucks that will be on-site with concessions. According to the North Carolina Home Expo website, the event is child-friendly and will even have activities to entertain the younger crowds.
Additionally, visitors can take advantage of money-saving deals by attending the Expo.
“There are also going to be exclusive discounts that are given away. So if you attend the show, you get the opportunity to get a special discount,” Neft explained. “That means, for example, if you’re thinking of doing that bathroom over again, and the bathroom companies there will be offering you a coupon that you could then use when you finalize a deal, you save money, and it's exclusive for the people attending the show.”
Neft said he expects to see 3,000 to 5,000 attendees and the exhibitor list is still growing.
“Anybody looking to exhibit still has the opportunity! We have a few booths open,” he shared.
The North Carolina Home Expo will be held March 21-23 at the Crown Complex, 1960 Coliseum Dr. The expo will be open Friday, noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Smooth grooves, timeless tunes: Mellow Madness captivates

14Music is a universal language that has existed since the beginning of time. The oldest form of communication and storytelling, it has been a vessel for love, unity, revolution and change. 
Every decade brings its own sound and voice and builds on the foundations laid by the artist before. The mark of truly good music is its ability to transcend time and remain timeless and classic. R&B is one such genre, spanning from its crooning soul beginnings in the '50s and '60s to the sultry sounds of today, it has stood the test of time and can get a crowd off their feet at the first note. 
For those who grew up in the '70s and '80s, there was no other genre of music more saturated with talented songwriters, artists and bands. 
Mellow Madness is Fayetteville’s premier Classic R&B cover band. They cover all the favorites from the '70s, '80s and some '90s. They focus mainly on “old school” music, like Earth, Wind & Fire, Tina Marie and Anita Baker. 
Originally founded in 1979, co-founder Reggie Wright has kept the spirit of the band alive, with its new lineup of members including Calvin Thomas also known as Eddie Kane Jr. (stage named after the Five Heartbeats legend) and Rosette Sands also known as Mahogany Rose. 
The band in its new form has been making a name for themselves, booking events around the city and the state, bringing the funk and live tunes to eager audiences. 
The current iteration of Mellow Madness is made up of 7 members: Leondra on bass, Mickey on saxophone, Anthony on keyboard, Lee on drums, Reggie on guitar. Thomas and Sands lead the band with their voices. Sands is the newest member of the group, a powerful vocalist, with a tone similar to those she emulates. 
She has been the perfect addition to the once all male band. Her tenure with the band started when she was slated to sing with the band for a reunion hosted by Reggie Wright. A previous engagement with recording artist Gregory Smith kept her from being able to perform, but her undeniable chemistry with the band and her extraordinary talent cemented her place as the newest addition to the band, bringing femininity that the once all male band had previously lacked. 
“We decided we were going to continue to practice and work on the band and just make a name for Mellow Madness,” Sands said. 
A school teacher by day, Sands has found her sweet spot on the stage, performing some of her favorite music of her youth saying, “When I’m performing, I just turn into something I always wanted to be. I feel like a star. I feel like that’s my moment and I’ve always been very shy. I just transform into someone totally different when I’m on stage. I love music. I’m mad at myself for taking this long to actually be a part of a band, but I just love singing. I didn’t start singing publicly until 2007.” 
Although her entry into the music scene was later in life, she has always been surrounded by music. 
“My dad always had a band. The name of my dad’s band was The Soul Serenators. My grandpa was part of a Gospel band. My dad played behind the Manhattans. His nickname was GuitarZan,” Sands explained. 
Thomas has been singing his whole life, jokingly saying “I probably came out my mother's womb singing,” and has been the lead vocals since the band's reincarnation by Wright. While Sands was originally slated to lead the band for the reunion organized by Wright, she reached out to Thomas when she realized she wouldn’t be able to make the gig. Thomas, a seasoned performer, was ready to step in and put on a show and has been rocking with the band ever since. 
“I think at the second rehearsal, I was like, this is pretty cool. I’ve never been in a band before. I’ve been in groups before, but never a band. I said, guys, for future reference, after this is over with, the gig we’re going to do. If you need me for anything, just let me know and I’ll be more than glad to step in. 
"They all looked at me and they started laughing. I didn’t know why they were laughing. And they [said] I don’t think you understand; we don’t want you to go anywhere. We want you here with us, we want you to stay with us, because we’re going to keep this thing going, so I [said] you ain’t got to tell me twice. [When I perform] I get to moving around in this chair and sometimes I start feeling it and sometimes I think I’m feeling my legs in this chair. Ready to get up out the chair.” 
Mellow Madness is looking to make its mark in Fayetteville. 
“We do these performances because we need to bring the grown and sexy to this town, places where people can go and feel comfortable and know that they’re just going to be around mature adults. That’s what Mellow Madness is bringing. We want people to reminisce. We want people to think of their childhood and where they may have been in the 80s and 90s. We’re trying to have somewhere where people can go and look for us to bring the grown and sexy. That’s our goal,” Thomas said. 
The band is currently looking to set up residency here in the city with a local business that would like to bring “the baddest band in Fayetteville” to their stage and their customers. 
For more information on upcoming performances, booking Mellow Madness or to inquire about residency, you can reach out via their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569021382478
(Photo courtesy of Mellow Madness)

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