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Tuesday, 06 May 2025
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Written by Crissy Neville
High energy hits the stage with the arrival of the 9th Annual Fayetteville’s Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown to the Crown Complex on May 17. The battle for Best Lip Syncer—in youth and adult categories—benefits the Child Advocacy Center and reigns as one of the All-America City’s most entertaining shows. Presented by Fayetteville Academy, the 2025 Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown’s lights-music-action energy is a can’t-miss.
The creative Lip Sync Showdown is the CAC's spring major fundraiser and signature event. Since 2017, the fun promotion has raised money and awareness for the Center, a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization with a multi-disciplinary approach to caring for abused children. By attending and supporting the Showdown, sponsors, show participants and eventgoers become community partners with the CAC in its mission to respond to and prevent child abuse. Event proceeds help provide healing and hope to the over 700 child abuse victims with whom CAC volunteers and staff work.
For the second year, Fayetteville’s Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown presents two performances in the Crown Center Ballroom. The youth matinee at 1 p.m. includes groups with one or more performers under 18. With recommended dress of casual to cocktail, the ticket price is $25 plus taxes and fees if purchased online. The 7 p.m. evening features adult-only performers ages 18+. Evening showgoers will enjoy a catered meal with dessert options and a cash bar; cocktail dress is suggested. The nighttime show ticket is $75 plus taxes and fees if purchased online. View all seating and pricing options here https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/fayettevilles-ultimate-lip-sync-showdown-3
Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Crown Box Office, located at 1960 Coliseum Dr.
A live DJ, show emcees, professional audio, custom stage lighting and a 3D photo booth keep the party pumping, both day and night. Table pompoms and hand-clappers, raffle tickets, an interactive dessert station and People’s Choice cash-donation ballot vases create audience interaction opportunities before, after and between the clapping, cheering, laughing and fever-pitch crowd responses the show always elicits. The Lip Sync performers may not have cut a record or signed a contract, but their Fayetteville fans follow them just the same.
Returning in 2025 are the 2024 winners: youth ensemble, The Miracles, comprised of local young actors with Cape Fear Regional Theatre ties, and the adult group formerly known as The Six Merry Murderesses, led by Casey Benander of Haymount Homes. High school theater department members from E.E. Smith, Terry Sanford, Fayetteville Academy, homeschools and other K-12 groups are on the lineup for the matinee. Adult Lip Syncers include groups from Womack Army Hospital, Keller Williams Real Estate, the office of Spring Lake Mayor Kia Anthony and Dancing Without Sin studio owner Stephanie Brown Kegler as “Tina Turner,” among numerous others. From musical theater selections, The Lion King, The Addams Family Musical, Legally Blonde, Newsies, Grease and Pitch Perfect, to hits and hipsters from the past, Ultimate Lip Sync competitors, past and present, are in it to win it! A $500 cash prize will be given to the winner of each show; performing acts are judged on the criteria of lip sync ability, stage presence, choreography, costumes, crowd appeal and preshow fundraising.
According to Event Chair Karen B. Tisdale, over 100 performers have signed up to participate in the 2025 competition, which is expected to be better than ever despite changing months from April to May.
“We've become more of an established event, and we're getting groups that are putting more effort into their performances, more choreography,” she said. “Last year was the first time we split and did two shows. So, continuing in that vein allows more performance groups to come in. The more developed the event, the bigger and better it gets.”
“It's my favorite event all year,” Tisdale continued enthusiastically. “It's so fun. It's fun to sit in the audience and watch. It's fun to be on stage. It's fun to be backstage.”
The Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown has raised upward of $30-$40K for the CAC each year.
“We hope to raise $50K this year,” Tisdale shared. “It's such a fun, high-energy event. It's just fantastic.”
Pre-fundraising among the participating groups contributes to the overall goal and is another way for the entrants to showcase creativity. From raffling tickets and washing cars to selling lemonade and hosting donation dance classes, the designated proceeds “go to the CAC for its mission,” Tisdale said. “We have adult groups that do Facebook and online social media fundraisers that bring in quite a bit for the CAC.”
Hired as the CAC Executive Director in June 2024, John Webster is excited to experience his first Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown with the agency this year. Expressing gratitude for the event’s legacy, he said, “As the Executive Director of the Child Advocacy Center and as a representative of the CAC staff and its Board of Directors, but more importantly, on behalf of the children we serve, I would like to thank everyone who has supported Fayetteville's Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown in the past. I encourage corporate and individual sponsors and supporters to come out again and support this super fun fundraiser benefiting the work of the CAC. Karen Tisdale and her amazing planning committee work tirelessly to make this event bigger and better each year, so I know this year's event will be lots of fun for all who attend! The work of the CAC is vital to Fayetteville and the entire county as we strive to be a place of healing and hope for child victims of abuse by offering forensic interviews and counseling for victims as well as providing prevention education for parents, professionals and agencies in our community. Please plan to purchase tickets and come out for a great time while benefiting the children we serve.”
Unleash your inner rockstar and join in this year’s event. Don't miss the chance to win big and earn bragging rights as the Fayetteville Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown Champion. Sign up now or buy your ticket to attend. Stardom awaits!
(Photo: The Six Merry Murderesses pose for a photo after the Ultimate Lip Sync Showdown in 2024)
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Tuesday, 29 April 2025
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Written by Sheila D. Barker
May is a bustling and exciting month filled with numerous festive holidays that bring communities together in celebration. Two particularly popular and entertaining occasions occur back-to-back: Star Wars Day on May 4, where fans worldwide celebrate the iconic franchise with the catchphrase "May the Fourth be with you," and Cinco de Mayo on May 5, a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and heritage.
These consecutive holidays offer perfect opportunities for friends and families to gather and enjoy special moments together. Local communities are hosting various themed events, activities, and celebrations for both occasions, making it an ideal time to participate in the festivities and create lasting memories.
May the Fourth Be With You- Star Wars Events
Wednesday, April 30
• Star Wars Trivia at WOW Bar & Kitchen, 1944 Skibo Rd., at 7 p.m.
Join the World of Beer for an unforgettable evening of intergalactic entertainment at Star Wars Trivia! Challenge yourself with mind-bending questions about the iconic saga, from the original trilogy to the latest releases. Test your expertise on everything from lightsaber battles and memorable quotes to obscure character backgrounds and hidden Easter eggs.
Battle fellow fans in friendly competition as you showcase your mastery of the Force. Whether you align with the light or dark side, this is your chance to prove you're the ultimate Star Wars aficionado!
For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/9by4kth3
Saturday, May 3
• May the 4th Be With You! at Fascinate-U Children's Museum, 116 Green St., at 10 a.m.-
Prepare for an epic morning full of adventure and fun. From 10 a.m. to noon, kids will step into the Star Wars universe through a series of hands-on activities and thrilling challenges. Young Padawans will get to train with lightsabers, learn the ways of the Force, and complete special Jedi training missions. They'll also participate in Star Wars-themed crafts, including building their own droid companions and creating galactic artwork.
Come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character or wear your Jedi robes! Whether you choose to channel Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Rey, or even join the Dark Side as Darth Vader, costumes are highly encouraged. This is the perfect event for young fans to immerse themselves in the Star Wars universe and meet other young Jedi-in-training.
Every participant will receive a special Star Wars-themed goodie bag and certificate of completion from the Jedi Academy. Space is limited to ensure each young Jedi gets personal attention during the activities. Register to reserve your spot and may the Force be with you! Tickets are $5 for adults and $7 for kids.
For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/3ky3jv9e
• Star Wars Weekend: Movie on the Lawn at Rogue Toys, 151 Chatham St., Sanford at 5 p.m.-Join Rogue Toys for an unforgettable Star Wars weekend extravaganza as they celebrate the most iconic and beloved movie franchise in the galaxy with a special outdoor 'movie on the lawn' screening of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
The evening's festivities begin at 6 p.m. with an exciting lineup of local vendors showcasing Star Wars merchandise, collectibles, and memorabilia. Inside the store, fans can take advantage of exclusive discounts and special promotions on their favorite Star Wars items. Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win incredible Star Wars-themed prizes, including limited edition collectibles, action figures, and movie memorabilia.
As the sun sets, get ready for the main event at 8 p.m. when the thrilling story of the Rebel Alliance's daring mission to steal the Death Star plans comes to life under the stars. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and join fellow Star Wars enthusiasts for this memorable cinematic experience. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/48vt964r
• Star Wars Marathon Weekend at Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines
Immerse yourself in the epic Star Wars saga the way it was destined to be experienced — in all its cinematic glory on the massive theater screen, with thundering surround sound that brings every lightsaber duel and space battle to vivid life. Each movie is $10. Here is the schedule of movies:
Star Wars (original) starts Saturday, May 3 at 4 p.m.
Empire Strikes Back is Saturday at 7 p.m.
Return of the Jedi is Sunday at 3 p.m.
For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/2sbczzvv
Sunday, May 4
• Star Wars Brunch at WOB Bar & Kitchen, 1944 Skibo Rd. at 11 a.m.-
May the brunch be with you! Join WOB for a galaxy-brunch far, far away—where the force is strong, and the mimosas are stronger! Dive into a Star Wars-themed dining experience that will transport you to a galaxy of delectable delights. Their menu features iconic dishes like Vader's Taters—crispy potato wedges seasoned with dark spices, and Leia's Buns—freshly baked cinnamon rolls with royal icing.
Quench your thirst with signature cocktails: the zesty Yoda 'Rita garnished with lime, or our refreshing Jedi Tropical Lemonade infused with exotic fruits from distant planets. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4r5t7bws
Friday, May 9
• Fayetteville Woodpeckers Star Wars Game Night at Segra Stadium, 460 Hay St. at 7 p.m.- Experience an epic evening of intergalactic fun at Segra Stadium during the Fayetteville Woodpeckers' highly anticipated annual Star Wars Night game!
The Force will be strong as fans of all ages come together to celebrate this beloved franchise while enjoying America's favorite pastime. But the excitement doesn't end with the final inning - stick around after the game for a spectacular Fireworks Extravaganza. This massive pyrotechnic display will light up the night sky for approximately 8 minutes, featuring synchronized launches from two different locations, creating an unforgettable visual experience for all attendees.
Tickets start at $13. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/3whj4eje
Cinco de Mayo-May 5 Events
Saturday, May 3-Sunday, May 4
• Cinco de Mayo Event at Gaston Brewing Taproom, 421 Chicago Dr. at 6 p.m.-
Get ready for an unforgettable day of entertainment and excitement! This vibrant event features 25 diverse vendors showcasing unique products and delicious offerings from gourmet food trucks, refreshing adult beverages, and talented musicians performing live throughout the day.
Children will be delighted with multiple bounce houses for endless jumping fun, professional face painters creating magical designs, and engaging craft stations where they can unleash their creativity. The best part? This family-friendly celebration is completely free to attend, and well-behaved furry friends are welcome to join in the festivities too! For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/26khrd7b
Monday, May 5
• Cinco de Mayo Party at Stewart's Tavern, 116 N. Main St., Raeford at 7 p.m.-
Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo at Stewart's Tavern! Celebrate in style with mouthwatering $2 street tacos, irresistible half-priced nachos, and refreshing margarita specials. Plus, enjoy unbeatable deals on imported drinks to keep the fiesta going all night long.
Don’t miss out on the fun, food, and festivities – grab your friends and join us for a celebration to remember! For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/4ureurd4