Belk Theater is Blumenthal’s flagship performance venue in Uptown. | Photo via Rachel Sutherland Communications
Charlotte’s arts scene is getting a fresh upgrade. Blumenthal Arts aims to expand its slate of programming to include multi-sensory and immersive exhibitions, interactive comedy, and more.
In 2021, Blumenthal brought “Immersive Van Gogh”to Camp North End, where it sold more than 300,000 tickets during its run. Paired with a recent trip to Barcelona to see “Next to Normal,” CEO Tom Gabbard kept the idea of “immersive” close to the vest.
“The Magician’s Table” has been extended twice in Charlotte due to popular demand.
Photo via Carol Fox and Associates Public Relations
Alongside its long-standing Broadway programming, the organization’s lineup at Blume Studios includes walk-through art and multi-sensory exhibitions, similar to “Space Explorers: THE INFINITE,” or interactive comedy and magic, like the newly-extended show “The Magicians Table” — now closing Sunday, March 1.
There’s a new lounge coming to Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The 14,000-sqft Capital One Lounge will join the mezzanine level of Concourse A, near gates 21–29, offering a full coffee bar, locally-inspired menu, and workspaces — the construction timeline is TBA.
Open
Brasserie Copain opens its new location today at The Bowl at Ballantyne. This will be the first location to serve a full dinner menu, plus pastries, coffee, and lunch. We’re excited to try the coq au vin.
Sports
We are 24 hours away from the wild card game — how is the team preparing? Go beyond the field for the biggest stories on the Carolina Pantherswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Eat
Still hungry? Eggroll Company’s bigger location at Camp North End will open tomorrow, Jan. 10. The popular eatery started as a food truck before opening a stall at Camp in late 2024. Now, diners can sit inside and enjoy American-style egg rolls — with breakfast options coming soon.
Announced
This is 24K Magic. Bruno Mars will bring “The Romantics Tour” to Bank of America Stadium, with special guests Anderson .Paak as DJ Pee .Wee, Leon Thomas, RAYE, and Victoria Monet. They’ll take the stage Wednesday, April 29 — tickets go on sale Thursday, Jan. 15. (WCNC)
Biz
Sycamore Brewing Company will be changing its name to Club West Brewing. The South End taproom closed earlier this week, with no reopening plans announced. (WCNC)
Active
Registration for the 2026 Around the Crown 10K opens this Saturday, Jan. 10 at 3 p.m. Organizers are hosting a launch party at NoDa Brewing to celebrate, with discounted registration and merchandise for sale. Pro tip: Get there early as registration sells out fast.
Biz
Speaking of concerts... Truliant Federal Credit Union secured naming rights to PNC Pavilion, renaming it Truliant Amphitheater. The University City music venue will kick off its first full concert season with its new name this April, starting with Mt. Joy on April 17.
Civic
The McCrorey Heights and Oaklawn Park neighborhoods are up for nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. The Charlotte Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing on the proposed nominations on Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 12:30 p.m. — register to comment.
Read
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Finance
You’re smart — but your spending can still be dumb. Here are the 11 dumbest things smart people waste money on.*
South Block will be across the walkway from PopUp Bagels at The Bowl. | Photo via South Block
Get ready for bowls at The Bowl. South Block, a Washington, DC-area brand known for acai bowls, smoothies, and cold-pressed juice, will open its first Charlotte location at the Bowl at Ballantyne on Saturday, Jan. 17.
Founded in Arlington, VA in 2011, the fast-casual chain has grown to 21 locations — with Charlotte marking its first shop out of the DMV.
“We built South Block one block at a time, and Charlotte is the perfect home to spread our mission of making people feel awesome one block at a time by spreading good vibes and fresh food,” said South Block Founder Amir Mostafavi in a press release.
Opening day perks include free mini acai bowls for the first 100 visitors, live music, giveaways, and swag. We’re excited to try the Nutella bowl.
But wait, there’s more. A second location is coming to the Commonwealth in Plaza Midwood — opening details are TBA. Keep an eye on your inbox for the updates.
The Buy
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Have you had a new neighbor move in over the past year?
Charlotte recently ranked No. 4 on U-Haul’s list of top growth metros. With 157 people moving to the Queen City every day, it makes sense that 60% of readers said they’ve had a few new neighbors join their block.
As for their advice on moving to the Queen City? “Volunteer to meet and help others,” and “buy a fly swatter.”
If you know someone new to our city, invite them to subscribe to our newsletter! From new restaurants and businesses to city workings and developments, chances are, if you like what you’re reading, they will too.
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