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Tuesday, 11 November 2025
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Written by Sheila D. Barker
On Saturday, Nov. 22, the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra invites music lovers to enjoy an afternoon or evening of wit, warmth, and world-class musicianship at Arts XL located at 214 Burgess St., Fayetteville. The concert, titled “Coffee Cantata,” will feature two performances of Johann Sebastian Bach’s comedic masterpiece, along with his Orchestral Suite No. 2. Doors open at 1 p.m. for the 2 p.m. matinee and again at 6:30 p.m. for the 7:30 p.m. evening performance.
Tickets are available online at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/, by calling the FSO office at 910-433-4690, or at the door on the day of the event. Discounts are offered for seniors, military, college students, children, and Cumberland County Schools employees, making this an accessible event for the entire community. This concert is made possible in part by generous grants from the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County and the North Carolina Arts Council.
A Blend of Music and Humor
This engaging program is a highlight of the FSO’s 2025–2026 season, celebrating the lighter side of classical music with Bach’s “Coffee Cantata.” Often described as a miniature comic opera, the work humorously depicts a daughter’s obsession with coffee and her father’s attempts to cure her of it, a theme that feels surprisingly modern for a piece written nearly 300 years ago.
Led by Music Director Stefan Sanders, the performance will feature a chamber ensemble and three distinguished vocalists who will bring Bach’s playful story to life. To complement the mood, coffee and pastries will be served, allowing audience members to sip along with the symphony’s storytelling literally.
Between Bach’s humor and his musical brilliance, the concert promises an afternoon or evening that blends artistry, comedy, and community connection for a truly “stimulating” experience for the senses.
Spotlight on the Soloists
The FSO is proud to present three acclaimed soloists whose combined talent and stage experience promise to make “Coffee Cantata” sparkle with charm and vocal excellence.
Anna Flynn, soprano, brings a fresh and expressive voice to the production. A graduate of the University of South Carolina with a B.A. in Voice Performance and the University of Tennessee with a M.M. in Voice Performance, Flynn has performed a range of operatic roles, including Gretel in Hänsel und Gretel, Serpetta in La Finta Giardiniera, and Frasquita in Carmen. Her concert repertoire includes Handel’s Messiah and Mozart’s Vesperae Solennes de Confessore. Based in Columbia, SC, Flynn performs regularly throughout the Southeast.
Jaeyoon Kim, tenor, is an internationally trained artist with an impressive academic and performance background. Holding a Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance from the University of South Carolina, Dr. Kim has also earned master’s degrees in both Choral Conducting and Vocal Performance, as well as an Artist Diploma from the Cleveland Institute of Music.
Currently a Professor at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Dr. Kim directs the University Chorale and Pembroke Singers, leading major choral works by Handel, Mozart, and Haydn. A resident of Fayetteville, he also serves as Music Director at Hay Street United Methodist Church and teaches at the Montecito International Music Festival in California.
Ramelle Brooks, bass, adds depth and resonance to the trio. A native of Fayetteville and graduate of Fayetteville State University, Brooks holds both Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Music Performance from the University of South Carolina. His diverse resume includes roles with Opera Carolina, Sounds of Charleston, and Augusta University Opera Theatre, performing in operas such as Madame Butterfly and The Magic Flute.
Currently, he is an Assistant Professor of Voice at South Carolina State University and serves as Director of Music at Second Calvary Baptist Church in Columbia, SC.
A Cultural Cup Worth Savoring
FSO’s “Coffee Cantata” offers more than just a concert—it’s an experience. By combining fine music, a touch of humor, and the welcoming aroma of coffee, the event bridges the gap between classical tradition and contemporary enjoyment. Whether you’re a devoted symphony-goer or a newcomer seeking something fresh, this program provides a perfect blend of culture, community, and caffeine.
As FSO Music Director Stefan Sanders notes, “Bach’s Coffee Cantata reminds us that even the greatest composers knew how to have fun. It’s a story about family, love, and the little indulgences that make life sweet, just like coffee itself.”
Bach’s "Coffee Cantata" will be held Nov. 22. Grab a cup and settle in for a delightful musical escape with the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. Don’t miss this chance to savor Bach’s humor, hear some of the region’s finest voices, and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon or evening of music, laughter, and latte love.
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Tuesday, 04 November 2025
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Written by Tara Kamiya
The North Carolina Home Expo returns to the Crown Complex Expo Center this November, promising an inspiring weekend for homeowners, builders and designers. Home improvement enthusiasts will have an array of professionals to consult on-site right here in Fayetteville. Presented by Nationwide Expos, the event will run Nov. 14 through 16, offering free admission and an immersive experience highlighting innovation and craftsmanship within the home industry.
Nationwide Expos produces more than 90 home and trade shows across the country each year. Excellence is more than a goal; it’s a tradition.
“Being the best is never good enough,” the company says. “We are consistently growing, improving, innovating, and leading the way in event production to create the absolute best experience for both exhibitors and consumers.”
With more than 50 years of combined experience in home shows and expos, Nationwide Expos brings deep expertise in event production, marketing, and exhibitor relations. Their professional team, led by President and CEO Jon Lewis and supported by Director of Operations Katerina O., Director of Marketing Sol L., and Controller Carolyn P. has built a reputation for creating events that deliver measurable results for vendors and engaging experiences for the public.
The North Carolina Home Expo serves as a comprehensive showcase for everything related to home improvement. From cutting-edge smart home technology to eco-friendly building materials, the event brings together an impressive range of exhibitors under one roof. Attendees can explore trends in design, compare products and connect directly with trusted contractors and suppliers.
Homeowners will find inspiration across every corner of the Expo. There are exhibits for indoor improvements such as kitchen and bath renovations, as well as for outdoors such as landscaping, solar solutions and sustainable design. Whether visitors are planning a remodel or simply gathering ideas for future projects, the show offers an up-front, hands-on opportunity to see, touch and experience the latest innovations shaping modern living.
Beyond exhibits, the North Carolina Home Expo emphasizes education and connection. Attendees can participate in interactive workshops and seminars led by industry experts covering topics such as sustainable design, energy efficiency, interior décor trends and cost-saving renovation strategies.
“Home shows give people the chance to not only see what’s new but to learn directly from the professionals who shape the industry,” said a Nationwide Expos spokesperson. “It’s a space for connection and community.”
The Expo also serves as a hub for networking. Contractors, architects, interior designers, and suppliers gather to share expertise, build partnerships and explore collaborative opportunities. For professionals, it’s a chance to expand their client base and stay ahead of market trends. For homeowners, it’s an invaluable opportunity to meet and vet trusted professionals face to face.
Inspiration and ideas abound at the home expo. Home shows are a visual feast for anyone passionate about home design. Attendees can explore real-world displays that showcase new materials and innovative solutions. It’s the perfect environment to spark imagination and plan the next great home project. Attendees also get access to experts, from builders and architects to decorators and landscape designers. The Expo brings together professionals across every aspect of home improvement. Visitors can ask questions, receive personalized advice, and gain insights that might usually require multiple consultations. The event allows attendees to evaluate costly products side by side, like flooring options or lighting systems. This hands-on experience helps homeowners make informed decisions before committing to large purchases. Many exhibitors offer special, event-only promotions and discounts. Homeowners can take advantage of show pricing on high-quality materials and services, making it a cost-effective way to jump-start home projects. Daily seminars and demonstrations are also offered. They empower attendees with practical knowledge. Sessions may focus on energy-efficient solutions, sustainable building, or the latest in smart home technology. For those looking to modernize or remodel, these workshops offer invaluable expertise.
At the heart of Nationwide Expos’ success is a commitment to both exhibitor and attendee satisfaction. “Our exhibitors’ success is our number one priority,” the organization notes. “You can trust that you, your business, and your success are in good hands.”