Monday Oct. 4

UNC Charlotte – Global Perspective Series
12:30pm – College of Health & Human Services, Room332
The 1st in this new lecture series titled “International Exchanges: Codex Aubin & the Influence of Early Printed Books”features Professor Rajagopalan who will discuss her experiences researching a 16th-century painted manuscript from Mexico and the European aesthetic and conceptual systems that helped to shape the work.
http://www.coaa.uncc.edu/Calendar/Detail/33507cc05eb6ea26fff147903e5574b98a22b153


Tuesday Oct. 5

François Furstenberg, Historian
7:00pm – Sykes Auditorium/Queens University. Free
Author of the critically lauded "In the Name of the Father: Washington's Legacy, Slavery, and the Making of a Nation" (2006), Furstenberg is the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation Chair of American Studies in the history department at the University of Montreal. His talk is titled “When the United States Spoke French: Trans-Atlantic Politics, Speculation, and Diplomacy in the Early American Republic.”
http://www.queens.edu/News-and-Events/College-of-Arts-and-Sciences-Events/Preyer-Lecture-Series/Francois-Furstenberg-Historian.html


Frontier Ruckus  @ The Evening Muse
10:00pm - $5
Don’t miss Ramseur Records’ recording act Frontier Ruckus as they pass through Charlotte on their East Coast tour and discover why Rolling Stone magazine exclaims this band has the “perfect recipe for Gothic Americana.”
http://www.frontierruckus.com/earshot


Wednesday Oct. 6

“Einstein’s Biggest Blunder: A Cosmic Mystery Story”
7:30-9:00pm – Davidson College/Duke family Performance Hall (Free)
Lawrence Krauss delivers the 2010 Smith Lecture. In his talk, he will describe the developments that have changed the picture of the past, present, and future of the Universe. Krauss is a theoretical physicist of international reputation. He is the Foundation Professor in the School of Earth and Space Exploration and Physics Department, and Inaugural Director of the Origins Project at Arizona State University.
http://www3.davidson.edu/cms/x41124.xml


Disney on Ice – Toy Story 3
7:00pm – Time Warner Cable Arena
An award-winning creative team and a cast of world-class skaters are bringing Woody, the pull-string cowboy; space ranger Buzz Lightyear; Jessie, the yodeling cowgirl; and the rest of the gang to fans and families around the country in this brand-new live ice spectacular! The show is in Charlotte through Sunday 10/10.
http://www.timewarnercablearena.com/page.aspx?section=events&pagetype=events&id=5283


Thursday Oct. 7

“Taste of The World” – Charlotte East Restaurant Preview Event
5:30-10:30pm – $30/person @ VanLandingham Estate Inn
Come share the flavor, uniqueness and vitality while experiencing the cosmopolitan flavor and the excitement of the people who call Charlotte East home! An opening reception at VanLandingham Estate begins your guided tour through eclectic Charlotte East to dine at three different culturally rich restaurants. Your evening's adventure will end with coffee and dessert back at the Estate.
http://www.charlotteeast.com/tasteofworld2010buy.htm

Friday Oct. 8


UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens – Annual Fall Plant Sale
9:00am-3:00pm (continues 10/9) – McMillan Greenhouse
Whether you are a seasoned gardener, a budding plant enthusiast, or a homeowner looking for just the right plant, you won't want to miss the yearly sales at the Botanical Gardens. Choose among shrubs, trees, wildflowers, ferns, and perennials at the fall sale.
All proceeds directly fund the operations of the greenhouse and gardens.
http://gardens.uncc.edu/calendar-of-events/events-at-mcmillan-greenhouse.html


Charlotte Symphony Orchestra– special guest: Natasha Paremski, piano
8:00pm – Belk Theatre. Tickets: $26.50 - $82.50
Christopher Warren-Green conducts his 2nd concert of the Classics series with a program that focuses on the “New World” and includes Bernstein’s Candide Overture, Rachmaninoff, & Dvorak.
http://www.carolinatix.org/default.asp?tix=59&objId=2196


The Diary of Anne Frank (opening night!)
8:00pm – Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts
In this gripping new adaptation by Wendy Kesselman, newly discovered writings from the diary of Anne Frank, as well as survivor accounts, are interwoven to create a contemporary impassioned story of the lives of people persecuted under Nazi rule. Set designed by Emmy Award winner John R. Bayless. A portion of the proceeds from this production will go to benefit the “Butterfly Project” at the Jewish Community Center. **Ages 12 and up**
http://www.matthewsplayhouse.com/mp2annefrank.htm


Saturday Oct. 9


CIAO, ITALIA! Festival
11:00 – 7:00pm – Wachovia Atrium, 301 S. Tryon - Adults/$5, Teens/$3, Children/Free
Join the Christopher Columbus Italian Club of Charlotte to celebrate Italian culture with a day filled with food, entertainment and more!
http://www.italian-club-charlotte.org/festivals.html

3rd Annual Charlotte Fine Art Show
10:00am-5:00pm – Park Expo & Conference Center
Admission $5, 12 & under Free
Juried by art professionals, this high quality art show brings approximately 100 world renowned & top notch local Carolina artists to sell their paintings, clay, glass, sculpture, wood, fiber, jewelry, photography and more. Continues Sunday 10/10.
http://www.hotworks.org/charlottefineartshow/index.php


The MET Live in HD – “Wagner’s Das Reingold”
1:00pm – Regal Stonecrest Cinemas @ Piper Glen + AMC Concord Mills 24-IMAX
The Metropolitan Opera’s Emmy and Peabody-award winning series of live and high definition performance transmissions returns for its fifth season with the 1st of (12) operas. This new production, with Maestro James Levine and directed by Robert Lepage, features Bryn Terfel singing the leading role of Wotan .
http://www.fathomevents.com/opera/series/themetropolitanopera.aspx


Annual Carolina Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace
10:00am-5:30pm – Sat/Sun through November 21st - Huntersville, NC
The Renaissance Festival is a 16th century European style art and entertainment festival combining outdoor theater, circus entertainment, arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, a feast fit for royalty, and much, much more.
http://www.royalfaires.com/carolina/


“Dracula” by North Carolina Dance Theatre
7:30pm – Knight Theatre
NC Dance Theatre opens its 40th season with a full-length staging of “Dracula,” choreographed by Mark Godden. Originally created for Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet in 1998, this contemporary interpretation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 horror classic has won critical acclaim for its storytelling, wit and theatricality.
http://www.blumenthalcenter.org/default.asp?blumenthal=59&objId=2003


Minneapolis Guitar Quartet
8:00pm Dana Auditorium/Queens University
Founded in 1986, the group has garnered unanimous international critical acclaim with its first four CDs on the Albany and GSP labels. Says Soundboard Magazine, "With 'Over Land and Sea,' the MGQ demonstrates that it is one of the major guitar ensembles in the world."
http://www.queens.edu/News-and-Events/Arts-and-Culture-Events/Performing-Arts/Minneapolis-Guitar-Quartet.html


Sunday Oct. 10

20th Annual Latin American Festival
12:00-7:00pm – Symphony Park, South Park Adults $5/Children $3 The Latin American Festival - one of Charlotte’s signature cultural events- attracts thousands of individuals from our multi-cultural community to enjoy local, nationally and internationally known musicians, handmade arts and crafts, authentic Latin American cuisine, traditional folkloric dance performances and children’s activities and performances- a true cultural experience for all.
http://www.festivallatinoamericano.org/home.html


OPERA CAROLINA’s “Cosi Fan Tutti” – FREE preview
2:00pm – Barnes & Noble/South Park
This hour-long preview, hosted by WDAV announcer Jennifer Foster, will feature music excerpts and in-depth discussion about the plot and composer before seeing the opera on the main stage.
http://www.operacarolina.org/events/321/



Living History Day: Weaving – Charlotte Museum of History
1:00-4:00pm - Free, with museum admission
Kenneth Webb, a weaver from New London, NC, will be visiting the museum to demonstrate different weaving techniques on his floor loom. He will also offer his wares for sale.
http://www.charlottemuseum.org/Calendar.asp#LHWeekends

Monday  Nov. 22

Monday Jan. 24

GIRL TALK
8:00pm - Fillmore Charlotte
Tickets: $33.50

• Girl Talk is the pseudonym of DJ and remixer Greg Gillis. Everyone from Pitchfork to the New York Times Magazine has lauded various aspects of Girl Talk’s formula. The sample-based dance tracks have made Gillis a hero of the mash-up generation: each of his songs are built on recognizable samples of recent hit singles, re-contextualized into an entirely new piece. Girl Talk’s 5th album was released in November. http://www.livenation.com/event/0E004562F9D99F02?camefrom=CFC_BUYAT_pollstar&brand=

Tuesday Jan. 25

Great Decisions Lecture Series: HORN OF AFRICA
7:00-8:30pm – Charlotte Country Day School (Cramer Lecture Hall)
Admission: $10 (for individual lecture…discount for series registration)

• The Office of International Programs at UNC Charlotte, along with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, coordinates a local community lecture series annually. Each week a local expert from nearby colleges and universities provides additional perspective on the topic of interest and answers questions regarding the information presented in the Briefing Book and through the lecture. Tonight, Dr. Kenneth Menkhaus, Davidson College will discuss the Horn of Africa as part of the series. He regularly serves as a consultant for the UN, US government, non-governmental organizations, and policy research institutes, and has provided expert testimony on two occasions before subcommittees of the US Senate. In 2002 he was recipient of a US Institute of Peace grant to study protracted conflict in the Horn of Africa. For more information or to register to attend, click below.                          http://oip.uncc.edu/great_decisions.htm

THE HARLEM QUARTET (UNC Chamber Music Festival)
8:00pm –Anne R. Belk Theatre/ Robinson Hall @ UNC Charlotte
Tickets: $9 general public, $7 for senior citizens and UNC Charlotte faculty and staff, and $6 for students.

• The centerpiece of the UNC Charlotte Chamber Music Festival (thru 1/27) will be a concert by guest artists The Harlem Quartet, including works by Dmitri Shostakovich and Sergei Prokofiev as well as contemporary jazz composers Chick Corea and Wynton Marsalis. Praised for its “panache” by The New York Times, the Harlem Quartet is currently the resident ensemble in the New England Conservatory of Music’s Professional String Quartet Program. Its mission is to advance diversity in classical music while engaging young and new audiences through the discovery and presentation of varied repertoire, highlighting works by minority composers. The Harlem Quartet made its acclaimed Carnegie Hall debut in the fall of 2006 and have returned to Carnegie on numerous occasions. In December 2009 the quartet played to performances at the White House for guests of President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, and made an appearance on Christmas morning on NBC’s Today Show. http://unccboxoffice.universitytickets.com/user_pages/event.asp?id=246&cid=28

DAVID BROOKS – Op-Ed Columnist/Author
8:00-10:00pm - Charlotte Museum of History
Tickets: Free to members

• The Charlotte Museum of History’s “Distinguished Speaker Series” returns this winter with David Brooks, Op-Ed Columnist for The New York Times, Commentator for The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer, and Author. David Brooks has a gift for bringing audiences face to face with the spirit of our times with humor, insight, and quiet passion. He is a keen observer of the American way of life and a savvy analyst of present-day politics and with the generous support from WFAE, Your NPR News Source, is free to members of the museum and guest. To check or change your membership status, please call (704) 568-1774 x.102.

Wednesday Jan. 26

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus *Opening Night*
7:00pm – Time Warner Cable Arena, Charlotte

• Tickets: Various prices, with opening night discounts.
  The Greatest Show On Earth just got Greater with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents Barnum’s FUNundrum!SM. Featuring 130 performers from six continents, almost 100,000 pounds of performing pachyderms, cowboys, pirates, and mermaids, Barnum’s FUNundrum! is a super-sized spectacle so massive you just can’t miss it! This monumental, once in a lifetime event celebrates the 200TH anniversary of the birth of the legendary P.T. Barnum, the Greatest Showman on Earth! and can only be experienced at The Greatest Show On Earth®, Barnum’s living legacy! Through Sunday January 30th. http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0E00454ECE298882?artistid=1362863&majorcatid=10003&minorcatid=29

BHANGRA Dance Demonstration
7:30-8:30pm – International House, 322 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte
FREE

• Join International House for a free demonstration and lecture by Anish V. Thakkar on the art of Bhangra Dance, a high energy folk dance that originated in the Punjab region of India/Pakistan. For more information, contact 704.333.8099.

Thursday Jan. 27


TRICIA WAGNER – Book signing

• 7:30pm – Barnes & Noble (Morrison Place-4020 Sharon Rd.)
  Come meet local author Tricia Wagner as she leads a discussion of her new book “Black Cowboys of the Old West: True, Sensational and Little Known Stories From History.” http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/3081305

PIERRE BENSUSON
8:00pm – Evening Muse (3227 N. Davidson Street)
Tickets: $20 General Admission

• French-Algerian guitarist, singer and composer Pierre Bensusan has been described by the L.A. Times as "one of the most unique and brilliant acoustic guitar veterans in the world music scene today.’ In 2008, he was voted "Best World Music Guitar Player" by Guitar Player Magazine Readers Choice. Don’t miss this exciting show!                             http://www.theeveningmuse.musictoday.com/EveningMuse/moreInfo.aspx

Friday Jan. 28


Music & Museum Concert – “Viva España!”
5:00pm – Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
Tickets: $15/members; $20/non-members

• January's concert theme, ¡Viva España!, celebrates Spanish and Argentinean music and features artwork by Joan Miro. The Bechtler Ensemble (Paul Nitsch on piano, David Russell on violin and Tanja Bechtler on cello) will perform Circulo by Joaquin Turina, Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla and Granada by Isaac Albeniz as well as works by Manuel de Falla and Pablo Casals. Also on Sunday 1/30 @ 5:00pm.                 https://purchaseonline.bechtler.org/public/daily_events_list.asp

AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’
8:00 – McGlohon Theatre @ Spirit Square

• Tickets: $22
  Based on the music of Fats Waller, this hit Broadway musical re-lives the flourishing era of the Harlem Renaissance and turns the stage into a racy, raucous and playful evening of songs. Five performers present their interpretations of what it means to swing, while being backed by the Sign of the Times band, with direction by Jermaine Nakia Lee. *Performances through Sunday Jan. 30.

       


Saturday Jan. 29

“What My Mother Told Me: The Art of Maria Magdalena Campos-Pon” – *Opening Day*
10:00am – Harvey G. Gantt Center for African American Arts & Culture
Admission: Free w/museum admission (RSVP to opening is encouraged)

• According to David Taylor, president & CEO of the Gantt Center, "What My Mother Told Me’ may be one of the most important exhibitions the Gantt Center has mounted to-date." María Magdalena Campos-Pons, a woman, an expatriate, and a Cuban, makes art about identity and memory. Born in Cuba of Nigerian ancestry, Campos-Pons' work of the last 20 years covers an extended range of visual language investigations. It emerges from the early 1980s focus on painting and the discussion of sexuality in the crossroads of Cuban mixed cultural heritage to incisive questioning, critique and insertion of the black body in the contemporary narratives of the present. She has exhibited internationally since 1984 when she won Honorable Mention at the XVIII Cagnes-sur-Mer Painting Competition in France and the Bunting Fellowship in Visual Arts at Harvard in 1993. Solo shows followed at MoMA, the Venice Biennale 2001, Johannesburg Biennial, the First Liverpool Biennial, the Dak'ART Biennial in Senegal and the Guangzhou Triennial in China.                                                http://www.ganttcenter.org/web/page.asp?urh=ExhibitionsViewer&id=12

GAELIC STORM
7:00 – Neighborhood Theatre (511 E. 36th Street - NODA)
Tickets: $15/advance; $20/day-of-show

• Chart topping Gaelic Storm plays Celtic music that hearkens back to the traditional music of Ireland, but they are hardly traditionalists. Their music adds modern sounds and draws influences from American rock and pop, as well as music styles from around the world. If you’re up for a lively evening of music, this is where you want to be. http://www.neighborhoodtheatre.com/theatre/order/order.asp?shownum=616&eventnum=2222

Sunday Jan. 30

Charlotte Contemporary Ensemble
3:00pm –St. Albans Episcopal Church, Davidson, NC
Tickets: $15; Students & Seniors $10; Children under 12 are FREE

•  Join Cedric Meekins and the Charlotte Contemporary Ensemble on a journey through a rich blend of music, from traditional Spirituals to Gospel and contemporary choral works, as they celebrate more than 30 years of performances. Featuring the music of African American composers and arrangers, this concert will warm your spirit and soothe your soul.

          http://www.musicatstalbans.net/?page_id=9


Preview Discussion of VERDI's "La Traviata"
4:OOpm – The Wine Shop @ Foxcroft (Southpark/7824 Fairview Rd., Charlotte)
FREE

•  Opera Carolina presents one of the world’s most beloved operas, La Traviata. The timeless story of Camille is retold in Verdi’s classic of a Parisian courtesan who surrenders to true love. Join WDAV's Jennifer Foster for a lively preview discussion of the opera. Performances of “La Traviata” by Opera Carolina will take place Feb. 3, 5 & 6.                  http://www.operacarolina.org/#

• A hilarious “mockumentary” about a small town beauty pageant that turns deadly as it becomes clear that someone will go to any lengths to win. Starring Denise Richards, Ellen Barkin & Kristin Dunst. The theatre (along w/co-sponsor The Light Factory) will even have its own beauty contests following the film, with chances to win fabulous prizes.

• The clarinet takes center stage as the Blue Ridge Chamber Players and clarinetist John Sadak perform 20th century works including Prokofieff’s beloved Overture on Hebrew Themes and Alan Shulman’s Rendezvous, written for the King of Swing, Benny Goodman. The program concludes with American composer Charles Griffin’s homage to Irish and Appalachian folk music, Weaving Olden Dances, in a new arrangement commissioned by Charlotte Chamber Music.  **Evening concert includes a wine & cheese reception in the Carillon lobby.

• The Office of International Programs at UNC Charlotte, along with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, coordinates a local community lecture series annually. Each week a local expert from nearby colleges and universities provides additional perspective on the topic of interest and answers questions regarding the information presented in the Briefing Book and through the lecture. Tonight, Dr. James Walsh, UNC Charlotte will discuss the Global Governance as part of the series. He is Associate Professor and Associate Chair of the Political Science Department, as well as the Director of the Center for Terrorism, Intelligence and Security Policy @ UNC Charlotte,. He received his doctorate in international relations from American University. For more information or to register to attend, click below.

• This photographic exhibition explores the role of women during the Mexican Revolution of 1910. Women fought as soldiers. They travelled with armies performing the work of nurses, cooks and aids. They were also victims of the fighting. The exhibition is made possible with special permission from the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia de México and support from the Friends of Art at Queens.

• The timeless story of Camille is retold in Verdi’s classic of a Parisian courtesan who surrenders to love. Based on the true romance of Alexander Dumas and Marie Duplessis, La Traviata (the fallen woman) tells the story of Paris’ most famous courtesan, Violetta Valéry, who leaves her destructive life to live with her first real love, Alfredo Germont. But social bias and Violetta’s failing health turn love to tragedy and remorse. Get swept up in grandeur of one of the world’s most beloved operas – La Traviata. Performances also 2/5 & 6.

• Broadcaster, author, advocate, publisher and philanthropist Tavis Smiley currently hosts the late night television talk show, Tavis Smiley on PBS and The Tavis Smiley Show, distributed by Public Radio International, as well as Tavis Smiley Reports,  four hour-long primetime TV specials also on PBS. He is the first American to simultaneously host signature talk shows on both public television and public radio. In 2009, Tavis Smiley was named one of TIME’s 100 “Most Influential People in the World.” For more information, call: 704 687-5323

• Tonight is the third of an ongoing evening event series that will be held the first Friday of every month at the new Mint Museum Uptown (500 South Tryon Street). Each First Friday centers on a different theme and features hands-on art activities for all ages, live entertainment, gallery tours, and refreshments.

• The Symphony welcomes guest conductor Maximiano Valdes, violinst Elena Urioste, and Metropolitan Ballroom dancers Clement Joly &Tatiana Kazakova to the KnightSounds stage for Tangos & Tapas, a program of exotic music from four Latin countries – Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. The sensuous rhythms will inspire you to kick up your own heels at the post-concert salsa dance party, featuring salsa band Orquesta Mayor, in the new Mint Museum. Meet new friends, mingle with musicians, and experience the orchestra in a whole new way.

• Family Day provides special museum tours and hands-on art activities for children of all ages. Art projects take place from noon to 4:30 p.m. in the museum’s classroom and video gallery. Family-friendly tours are offered on the hour from noon until 4 p.m. and highlight the exhibition Four Artists in Ascona: Benazzi, Bissier, Nicholson and Valenti, which opened January 21.

• During Open Studio Saturdays artists work in their studios with the doors open.  It is an opportunity for the public to meet the artists and learn about their art as well as view the current exhibition. 

• The trio first met in England while studying with iconic King Crimson guitarist Robert Fripp. After touring together as part of Fripp’s League of Crafty Guitarists, the three guitarists convened in Los Angeles and founded The California Guitar Trio. Their music has been featured extensively on NPR, NBC’s Olympics coverage, and various CBS, CNN, and ESPN TV programs.

• This special screening showcases a new documentary, “Jail, No Bail”, about the Civil Rights sit-ins that took place in Rock Hill, SC in 1961. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Charles Jones, David Williamson, and others who took part in the historic events. Presented in partnership with South Carolina ETV and The Culture & Heritage Museums.  RSVP to 704.333.1887 ext. 501 or rsvp@museumofthenewsouth.org.

• Guillermo Bill will be playing the music….come and enjoy an afternoon of fun filled tango, milonga and vals.

• Band of Joy was the name of rock icon Robert Plant’s Black Country psychedelic folk group of the late ‘60s (pre-Led Zeppelin) and his revival of its name and spirit in 2010 is of no small significance. His top selling 2010 Grammy nominated album titled “Band of Joy ” pays tribute to American country + folk. Don’t miss this living rock legend’s swing through Charlotte!

• As part of their “Let’s Get Reel” series, on the 2^nd Tuesday of each month, The Mint welcomes you to stop by and hear some live music (by the Ocie Davis Trio, this week). Then settle back and watch a screening of Kathryn Bigelow’s Academy Award winning  film “THE HURT LOCKER.”

• The Office of International Programs at UNC Charlotte, along with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, coordinates this "Great Decisions Lecture Series" annually. Tonight, Dr. Chris Van Aller, Winthrop University will discuss Sanctions and Proliferation: North Korea and Iran, as part of the series. Dr. Van Aller is Professor of the Political Science @ Winthrop University. He received his doctorate in foreign affairs from the University of Virginia. He specializes in International Relations, Post Soviet Politics, and European Politics.  For more information or to register to attend, click link above.

• The greatest love story ever told receives full musical expression in this romantic Valentine’s concert. In between the brooding and beautiful tales of young love, the CSO’s own concertmaster, Calin Lupanu, performs Tchaikovsky’s spectacular violin concerto, one of the most famous – and most difficult – pieces for that instrument. With Christopher Warren-Green, conducting and Calin Lupanu, violin, the program features TCHAIKOVSKY Romeo and Juliet and Violin Concerto in D major and PROKOFIEV Excerpts from Romeo and Juliet.

• Sweeney Todd is a musical thriller by Stephen Sondheim. A chilling, suspenseful, heart-pounding masterpiece Sweeney Todd tells the infamous tale of the unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th century London seeking revenge against the lecherous judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. His thirst for blood expands to include his unfortunate customers, and the resourceful proprietress of the pie shop downstairs soon has the people of London lining up in droves with her mysterious new meat pie recipe!

• The Big Daddy Bluegrass Band rides again! It has been five long years since the BDBB has taken the stage. They make their return tonight for the debut of their new lineup which features some of the premier acoustic musicians working today. Steve “Big Daddy” McMurry, front man and founding member of Acoustic Syndicate, returns to the world of bluegrass music with a formidable arsenal of hot, young pickers. There are always great, guest musicians at their performances and you never know who will turn up to play.

• In support of her recently released book, “Into a Light Both Brilliant and Unseen: Conversations with Contemporary Black Poets,” Malin Periera will discuss her collection of eight interviews with leading contemporary African American poets. The book offers an in-depth look at the cultural and aesthetic perspectives of the post–Black Arts Movement generation.

• A "Knight" to Remember, in preparation of the upcoming tour to Scotland, is a cabaret style concert highlighting individual members of the Charlotte Children’s Choir Youth Chorale and Chamber Ensemble. Enjoy an evening of listening to timeless love songs ranging from contemporary popular music, jazz standards and favorite arias while you enjoy a wonderful meal. The CCC has won recognition for choral excellence in their appearances around the world. The Choir performed on “CBS This Morning” and was featured in the A & E television special, “Judy Collins Christmas at the Biltmore.” The choir made its Carnegie Hall debut as the featured choir at the 2005 National Children’s Choir Festival.

• Sounds of love will fill the Bechtler lobby February 13 when the museum presents a special Valentine's Day Music and Museum program. Chamber of Love: Sizzling Duets will feature music composed by Rachmaninoff, Casals, Kreisler, Gliere and Richard Strauss paired with artwork by Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle, two Bechtler collection artists who were partners in art and life.

• Don’t miss the chance to see folksinger Dan Bern with two Valentines Day concerts in this intimate setting. Email davidsonncmusic@hotmail.com to reserve tickets, making sure to specify what time and how many tickets

• The Office of International Programs at UNC Charlotte, along with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, coordinates a local community lecture series annually. Tonight, Dr. Richard Buttimer, UNC Charlotte will discuss Responding To The Financial Crisis as the final lecture of the series. Dr. Buttimer, who has a PHD from the University of GA, is Interim Associate Dean for Faculty and Research as well as Professor of Finance at UNC Charlotte. He has published papers in many academic journals and is a member of the editorial board of The Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics. His primary areas of research are the development of mortgage default models and the application of options theory to real estate problems.

• Don’t miss Flogging Molly’s exhilarating and explosive live show with their unique blend of traditional Irish music and rowdy punk rock. This L.A. based septet’s annual tour countdown to St. Patrick’s Day will also feature music from their upcoming spring release, recorded in Asheville. Also appearing is Moneybrother and The Drowning Men.

• Three generations of men (all played by the same actor), from slavery through Black Power, challenge Lewis to embark on a night journey combining past and present. Infused with abundant humor and woven through with original songs, BLUE DOOR is a tour-de-force for two actors, a vivid, exuberantly theatrical play about the African-American male experience. “Intelligent…unfailingly thought-provoking…Barfield poses sharp questions and counter-questions on contemporary black identity. Her vision is fearless and humane.” - The Los Angeles Times

• A full-fledged musical that recasts the MGM tradition in a gritty, near-documentary style. It tells the story of a young Boston jazz musician who drifts from affair to affair, his trumpet the only constant in his life. Jason Palmer, its star, was recently named by Down Beat Magazine as one of the top twenty-five “Trumpeters for the Future.” The film features all original music composed by Justin Hurwitz and recorded by the Bratislava Symphony Orchestra.

• Dr. Kimerly Rorschach, Director of the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, talks about why universities have museums.

• IN THE HEIGHTS, winner of four 2008 Tony® Awards including BEST MUSICAL, is a sensational new show about chasing your dreams and finding your true home. You will be taken on an exhilarating journey into a vibrant Manhattan community; a place where the coffee is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three.  ***Ticket holders for the February 18th performance of IN THE HEIGHTS will have the unique opportunity to attend a pre-show event featuring a cocktail hour (cash bar), free hors d’oeuvres, and salsa dancing led by dancers from Metropolitan Ballroom! To SAVE $10 on tickets to IN THE HEIGHTS on Friday, February 18th visit www.BlumenthalCenter.org/salsa or call 704.372.1000 and ask for the “salsa” special!

• Expanding on the popular Bluebird Day of the past two years, the Garden celebrates our winged friends with a day of birds. Enjoy bird watching walks, demonstrations and mini-talks scheduled throughout the day, including the annual update on the Gardens' Bluebird Program. For a small fee, build your own bluebird house and mix up a suet treat for the feathered friends in your yard at home. ** A materials fee of $10 will apply for optional Bluebird house and Suet projects.
  Partnering Organizations: NC National Wildlife Federation affiliates, Gaston County P.A.W.S. and Mecklenburg County H.A.W.K.

• 2010 film about the legendary poem by beat icon Allen Ginsberg -- played by Hollywood actor James Franco. -- and the 1957 obscenity trial that followed its publication.

• The Friends of Music at Queens proudly hosts Red Priest, an acoustic foursome founded in 1997 and named after the flame-haired priest Antonio Vivaldi. Red Priest is the only early music group in the world to have been compared in the press to the Rolling Stones, Jackson Pollock, the Marx Brothers, Spike Jones and the Cirque du Soleil. The group has given sold-out concerts at many of the world’s most prestigious festivals, including the Hong Kong Arts Festival and Prague Spring Festival. Their repertoire ranges from obscure 17th century sonatas to the most famous works of Bach and Vivaldi, all presented in imaginative programs with cinematically inspired titles: “Priest on the Run,” “Nightmare in Venice,” “Pirates of the Baroque” and “Johann, I’m Only Dancing!”

• It’s family time Uptown! Try out a new scavenger hunt in the museum galleries, see a performer or artist demonstrating, and enjoy kid-friendly activities. Each month the museum will celebrate a new theme. This month’s theme:  Art, Supersized!

• Levine Museum of the New South presents its "New South for the New Southerner," an educational program for newcomers and native, Hosted by Levine Museum historian Dr. Tom Hanchetts. High-profile newcomers to Charlotte include Kathleen Jameson from Houston, director of the Mint Museum, and Christopher Warren-Green from London, conductor of the Charlotte Symphony. They'll share their personal puzzlements with Charlotte, plus tips for getting along in the Queen City. Program includes wine and dinner from Mert's Heart & Soul.

• Come hear a lecture by Jurgen Buchenau, Professor, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Chair, Department of History. Dr. Buchenau’s research interests include 19th and 20th century Mexico, Immigration, Mexico in world affairs, and the Mexican Revolution. He is currently writing a biography of General Alvaro Obregón, who commanded the winning faction in the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920).  Dr. Buchenau has also begun work on a book that will examine economic development, corruption, and political leadership to reconsider the consolidation of Mexican state in the 1920s and 1930s. ***Reservations are required: email programs@charlottemuseum.org  or call 704.568.1774.

·    In this highly anticipated engagement, MOMIX (internationally renowned contemporary dance company) brings its breathtaking fantasy piece BOTANICA to Charlotte. BOTANICA transports you to a fantasy world of surreal images and childlike wonder. Set to an eclectic score that ranges from birdsong to Vivaldi, BOTANICA reveals nature’s changing imagery in an unforgettable multimedia experience. Through Sunday 2/27.

• Charlotte ViewPoint, Novello Festival Press, the Queens MFA in Creative Writing program and The Arts at Queens host a reading of “Topograph,” a literary anthology celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Novello Festival of Reading. The anthology offers a fresh sketch of the current Southern literary landscape, including one-minute stories, fractured prose poems, fragmented pulp fiction and inventively structured memoirs. The book is a collaboration between Novello Festival Press and Charlotte ViewPoint, a community-based nonprofit organization that advances metropolitan ideas and art. Book contributors include MFA faculty Alan Michael Parker and Katherine Min. Prior to the reading, editor Jeff Jackson will answer audience questions about literary publishing and editing.

• The U.S. Ambassador to Singapore will discuss: Why Asia? Why ASEAN? Why Now? - How to be a Winner in the Global Marketplace. Prior to his confirmation, Ambassador Adelman served as a State Senator in the Georgia General Assembly and as an Assistant Attorney General in Georgia.  For the past twenty years he worked with the national law firm Sutherland Asbill & Brennan LLP.  He has taught courses in political science as an instructor in the Honors Program at the University of Georgia.  For many years Ambassador Adelman represented indigent veterans on a pro bono basis before the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, as well as served as a legal adviser to the state of Georgia’s largest domestic violence organizations.

• Come meet journalist LISA NAPOLI, as she reads from her new book “Radio Shangri-La: What I Learned in Bhutan, the Happiest Kingdom on Earth.” Ms. Napoli writes of a period when she was dissatisfied with her life and her work as a radio journalist when a chance encounter with a handsome stranger presents her with an opportunity to move halfway around the world. She decides to leave behind cosmopolitan Los Angeles for a new adventure in the ancient Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan—said to be one of the happiest places on earth - and helps to start Bhutan’s first youth-oriented radio station, Kuzoo FM. Lisa Napoli has worked as a journalist for NPR (public radio show Marketplace), a columnist at the New York Times CyberTimes, and an Internet correspondent at MSNBC. She began her career at CNN, worked in local news in North Carolina, and has directed several documentaries about Southern culture.

• Frequently comic, sometimes tragic, and often poetic, Rowing To America explores the experience of immigration, emigration, and migration through a myriad of culturally diverse one-act plays. These plays are directed, designed, and performed by students in the Department of Theatre and represent a clear but simple aesthetic approach to production and performance.

• The Flag of Hope is a social art project that will travel to 10 cities across North Carolina to promote multicultural awareness and hope within our diverse communities. Artist Edwin Gil will collect handprints and signatures on large canvases that will be fashioned into the nation’s first ever flag made with the handprints of North Carolina residents. Gil is a contemporary conceptual artist best known for his vibrant colors and proprietary paint technique used to achieve depth and movement in his works.

• Susan Graham and Plácido Domingo reprise their starring roles in Gluck’s nuanced and elegant interpretation of this primal Greek myth. Tenor Paul Groves also returns to Stephen Wadsworth’s insightful production, first seen in 2007. Patrick Summers conducts.

• 
  Join staff of the Botanical Gardens for an informative stroll through the delights of the Susie Harwood Garden. Yes, there is much to appreciate in a southern garden in winter – berries, bark, structure, and even flowers. Come enjoy this overlooked season, learn about some plants to add to your own winter garden, and choose from a prime selection of winter plants for sale. A short slide presentation will precede the garden walk.

• The Bechtler Ensemble is joined by special guest violinst Rosemary Furniss this evening. Furniss is one of the most respected violinists of her generation and is acclaimed for her solo performances and collaborations with renowned orchestras and conductors (including her husband, newly appointed Charlotte Symphony conductor Christopher Warren-Green who also leads the London Chamber Orchestra where Furniss shares the role of Artistic Director and Concertmaster). For this performance, the musical work of Brahms will be paried with the artwork of Julius Bissier. Bissier is featured in the exhibition Four Artists in Ascona: Benazzi, Bissier, Nicholson and Valenti on view now through July 5 in the museum's second-floor gallery.

• The Light Factory and Theatre 650 present this month’s Cult Movie Monday feature: SHAFT, the genre-defining blackploitation film,  directed by Gordon Parks. Come watch John Shaft -  the ultimate in suave black detectives. He first finds himself up against Bumpy, the leader of the Black crime mob, then against Black nationals, and finally working with both against the White Mafia who are trying to blackmail Bumpy by kidnapping his daughter.

• Feel the excitement of the bullfight and revel in the flair of the Fandango as you experience the flavour of Spain with classical guitarist Robert Teixeira and friends. From the intimate to the extroverted, enjoy an Iberian musical fiesta right here in Charlotte. Selections include: Joaquin Turina: La Oracion del Torero ; Luigi Boccherini: Guitar Quintet #4 in D “Fandango.”  Musicians for this concert are Robert Teixeira, guitar; Peter deVries and Kari Giles, violins; Vasily Gorkovoy, viola; Tanja Bechtler, cello. These concerts are performed by leading local and regional professional musicians that Charlotte Chamber Music compensates. The evening concert includes a wine and cheese reception in the Carillon Lobby.

7th ANNUAL CHARLOTTE JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL –  Opening Night!

7:00pm – Sam Lerner Center for Cultural Arts/Jewish Community Center

• In honor of NASA’s 50^th Anniversary, the Charlotte Jewish Film Festival (March 3-13) will open with a screening of the 2010 documentary film: AN ARTICLE OF HOPE. An uplifting message of humanity, AN ARTICLE OF HOPE tells the remarkable story of Israel’s first astronaut and the journey of a tiny Torah scroll into outer space. Israeli Air Force Colonel Ilan Ramon and six other astronauts perished on Feb. 1st, 2003, when the Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated upon reentry. Among the few objects that Ramon took into space was a miniature Torah that had survived the Concentration Camps of the Holocaust.  **Tiffany Russell, from NASA, will be the special guest speaker.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

8:00pm – Charlotte Motor Speedway

• CIRQUE DU SOLEIL returns to Charlotte MARCH 3- 20 with a brand new live production:  TOTEM! Somewhere between science and legend TOTEM explores the ties that bind Man to other species, his dreams and his infinite potential.

• This benefit (which runs through Sun. 3/6) was created to showcase the local talent in our community and to support Matthews Playhouse and Theatre Matthews. For 16 years Matthews Playhouse has enriched the lives of performers and audience members alike with high quality plays and performances. This variety show will celebrate solo, small and large groups who have been invited to or successfully auditioned for a spot in the shows. Top performers will be recognized with a final showdown on the last evening.

• Experience the sounds of 1930s and '40s France when the Ziad Jazz Quartet performs the music of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli. Featured songs include Nuages, Limehouse Blues, Minor Swing, Django, After You’ve Gone and Exactly Like You.

• This illustrated lecture about the life and works of Oscar Nemon, Sir Winston Churchill's sculptor, is given by his daughter Lady Young. The lecture traces Nemon's life from his birth in Croatia in 1906 to his very last sitting with Diana, Princess of Wales in 1985. Nemon sculpted many of the leading statesmen and royalty of the 20th century including the Queen, the Queen Mother, Margaret Thatcher and President Eisenhower. The lecture is presented with support from The English Speaking Union of the United States and the Friends of Art at Queens. Reception to follow the lecture.

• Motörhead's overwhelmingly loud and fast style of heavy metal was one of the most groundbreaking styles the genre had to offer in the late '70s. Currently on their 35^th anniversary tour, in support of their latest album “The World Is Yours,” don’t miss Lemmy and the band for a classic hard rock show! Be sure to also catch opening band CLUTCH, for some amazing, bluesy, hard rock.

• Davidson Community Players explores visual art with the thrilling premier of Masterpiece by the award-winning author Meir Ribalow. Based on the actual events of the 20th Century’s most notorious forgery scandal, the drama follows Flemish artist Han van Meegeren who successfully forges a 'masterpiece' by Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer to retaliate against a hostile and powerful art critic. The painting is sold to the Nazis, and it is not until nine years later that a mysterious investigator appears and the unraveling begins. "A mesmerizing thriller about what constitutes great art and the relationship between love, art, and the truth." --Broadway World

• 19th century blacksmiths on the grounds providing demonstrations. 

• Levy is one of the artists at the forefront of reviving and preserving Ladino, a collective term for the Judeo-Spanish languages that date back to the 15th century in Spain. In her deep, spiritual and moving style of singing, Levy preserves and revives the most beautiful songs from the Ladino/Judeo-Spanish heritage, mixing it with Andalusian Flamenco. Her “Romance & Yasmin” created a stir amongst world music lovers across the globe. She’s performed at Carnegie Hall, with Jools Holland on his TV show in England and at WOMAD festivals. See why The Guardian says Levy "deserves global recognition... (her music is) powerful, passionate & intriguing. “

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Business Briefing: Assessing the geopolitical implications of EU AI regulation 17 September 2024 — 4:00PM TO 5:00PM Anonymous (not verified) 8 August 2024 Chatham House

Join us for this critical discussion of how the EU AI Act will shape the world’s approach to the technology.

Join us for this critical discussion of how the EU AI Act will shape the world’s approach to the technology

Governments, technology companies and civil society groups across the world are now advocating firmer AI regulation. Machine learning algorithms have changed the way we interact with technology and powered much of our online lives for decades: why has this pendulum swung back so far toward greater control, and why now?

In 2023 the UK government seized the initiative with its Bletchley AI Safety Summit. The event attempted to address the so called ‘frontier risks’ associated with AI development. Global competition on AI is reflected in AI governance efforts in China, US, the Gulf and beyond. But to date, it is the EU that has led the West in passing AI legislation. The EU AI Act, has separated AI systems into graded risk categories carrying different regulatory requirements, and it remains to be seen whether global AI will feel the Brussels effect.

This conversation will cover the following questions:

• Critics have painted regulation including the AI Act as anti-innovation. Is this a fair assessment?
• What lessons can we learn from the successes and shortcomings of GDPR?
• How do we tackle the challenge of low public trust in AI and low public trust in government technology projects, particularly in Western democracies?
• Does the proliferation of safety institutes, and the AI office, point to the emergence of a new type of technical governance institution? What is its future?

30 Years of Non-Maghreb: What next for Algeria-Morocco relations? 10 September 2024 — 2:00PM TO 3:15PM Anonymous (not verified) 13 August 2024 Online

Experts discuss Algeria-Morocco relations and implications for regional actors.

In 1989, the establishment of the Arab Maghreb Union (UMA) brought a promise of economic integration and strengthening of ties between Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia for the benefit and prosperity of their societies.

Decades on, very little has been accomplished in developing the Maghreb project, and the region remains one of the least integrated in the world, despite significant social and cultural similarities between member countries. The last time the full UMA leadership met was back in 1994, with August 2024 marking 30 years of closed borders between Algeria and Morocco.

Relations between the two largest Maghreb countries have deteriorated further since 2020 due to disagreements over issues of Western Sahara, and, most recently, the Abraham Accords, with Algeria cutting diplomatic ties with Morocco in 2021.

In this webinar, experts will discuss:

• Which primary obstacles are hindering Maghreb integration and Algeria-Morocco relations?
• What are the costs and implications for regional countries?
• What are the positions of Libya, Tunisia, and Mauritania?
• What is required for a rapprochement and how can external partners support this? 

In conversation with David Miliband: Finding a new approach to tackle conflict, climate and extreme poverty 11 September 2024 — 5:00PM TO 5:45PM Anonymous (not verified) 15 August 2024 Chatham House and Online

David Miliband discusses how the climate crisis, extreme poverty and conflict are becoming inextricably linked and how the global community must respond.

Combatting the climate crisis, ending protracted conflicts, and alleviating poverty are three of the greatest priorities for international action. However, these three challenges become increasingly concentrated in a handful of countries. The subsequent feedback loop makes addressing these challenges even more complex.

The International Rescue Committee’s (IRC’s) work in crisis-affected communities highlights this new geography of crisis. Just 16 countries, which are both climate-vulnerable and conflict-affected. This represents 43% of all people living in extreme poverty, 44% of all people affected by natural disasters and 79% of all people in humanitarian need. This trend towards the concentration of crisis is only deepening. In three decades, the number of conflict-affected, climate-vulnerable states has increased from 44% to more than two-thirds.

Affected countries - like Sudan, Myanmar, and Syria - are also among the least supported financially. Debt burdens are siphoning away critical resources needed for adaptation and resilience. Humanitarian aid budgets are being slashed by donor governments. The private sector refuses to invest in these communities they view as too risky. And the international financial institutions meant to alleviate poverty and spur climate action are not well-designed to work with crisis-affected states or local communities. With the upcoming COP29 Summit in Azerbaijan focused on the New Collective Quantified Goal for climate finance, vulnerable communities will be watching closely whether they will get support in their fight against the worst impacts of the climate crisis.

Conflict, the climate crisis, and extreme poverty are taking their toll. But how can the world best respond?

Key questions to be discussed during the session include:

• At a time of political disruption, how does the West engage with vulnerable countries? What actions should be prioritised in providing support to such countries?
• Can global institutions evolve to better protect vulnerable and displaced people from conflict and climate-risk, particularly as geopolitical rivalries reduce space for cooperation?
• What is the UK’s role in supporting climate action in fragile states and how does this align with its agenda on the Sustainable Development Goals and extreme poverty?

What is the future of cross-border data flows? 16 September 2024 — 6:00PM TO 7:00PM Anonymous (not verified) 15 August 2024 Chatham House and Online

Navigating long-standing tensions and newfound difficulties for unlocking shared prosperity among modern, digital economies.

Cross-border data flows can unlock shared prosperity among digital economies, advance international security, and address cybercrime and global crises. But ensuring the free flow of data across borders involves navigating complex regulatory, security, trust, political, and technical challenges. Developing effective frameworks and agreements to support data flows is a significant undertaking.

Recent bilateral and multilateral agreements and initiatives have advanced data-sharing, respecting the right to privacy and upholding notions of sovereignty. This has contributed to clearer rules and (potentially) better solutions such as the OECD declaration on government access to data held by companies. Further progress, supportive of public safety and national security, is on the horizon, like G7 support for data free flow with trust and industry-led, trusted cloud principles on protecting human rights and competitiveness.

More work is needed to operationalize commitments and advance ongoing negotiations, like US–EU negotiations on e-evidence in criminal proceedings. This is key for ensuring ‘hard’ legal and regulatory mechanisms complement OECD principles. Stakeholders from law enforcement, national security, data protection and industry must confront tensions between sovereign prerogatives and cooperation. They must also overcome traditional silos between law enforcement and national security work. On the horizon are newfound challenges (for example, in harmonizing legal frameworks and responding to advances in technology). All the while, stakeholders must work together to promote economic interests, data protection, privacy and cybersecurity.

This expert panel discusses the future of cross-border data-sharing, raising questions including:

• What value does cross-border data-sharing bring and where are its current ‘pain points’?
• To enable data free flows, how should principles complement ‘hard’ legal and regulatory mechanisms?
• Beyond states, law enforcement, major industry players and international organizations, what roles should SMEs, the technical community and civil society stakeholders play in shaping and operationalizing principles?
• Looking ahead, where is progress in data-sharing principles and arrangements expected or possible?

A drinks reception follows the event.

This event is supported by Microsoft as part of a project on data sharing. The project has benefited greatly from the insights of a multi-stakeholder taskforce and concludes with an open-access special issue of the Journal of Cyber Policy.

In conversation with HRH Prince Turki AlFaisal 13 September 2024 — 11:00AM TO 12:00PM Anonymous (not verified) 16 August 2024 Chatham House and Online

This event will discuss how the ongoing Gaza war is impacting the region and the role external actors can play to support de-escalation.

The Gaza war, now in its tenth month, continues with ever-worsening consequences for Palestinians and no end in sight. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has also heightened tensions across the Middle East with fears of a broader regional war that would include Iran and aligned groups from the ‘axis of resistance’.

Against this backdrop, ceasefire negotiations supported by regional and international mediators, have not amounted to an agreement nor have there been any concrete proposals for a way forward out of the crisis by key actors such as the United States, Gulf countries or other key stakeholders.

In this event, His Royal Highness Prince Turki AlFaisal will discuss how the Gaza war and related developments are impacting the Middle East, and will share his views on the role of regional and external actors in supporting de-escalation efforts.

The addresses:

• How are Middle Eastern countries managing regional security and heightened tensions with Iran and aligned groups in Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen?
• What role are Gulf countries playing in efforts to de-escalate tensions?
• How can they support short- and long-term planning for a way forward in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
• How are relationships between Middle East countries and external powers such as the United States changing as a result of the Gaza war?

In person places for this event are balloted. Confirmations will be sent by email on Monday 9 September at 3pm or a placed on the waiting list. Virtual registrations are confirmed immediately.

Individual membership provides you with the complete Chatham House experience, connecting you with a unique global policy community. Find out more about membership.

Sustainability Accelerator Summer Drinks 2024 6 September 2024 — 5:30PM TO 7:30PM Anonymous (not verified) 19 August 2024 Chatham House

Join us for the Sustainability Accelerator’s annual summer drinks reception.

This event brings together a diverse group of thinkers and changemakers from our network, as well as our collaboration partners, to reflect on our successes over the past year and give an opportunity to meet new people.

The reception will follow the Sustainability Accelerator’s annual UnConference, but is a separate event. Unless you have received confirmation of your place at UnConference, you must register for the summer drinks reception via this webpage to secure your place.

Islamic radicalisation in Central Asia 18 September 2024 — 10:00AM TO 11:30AM Anonymous (not verified) 20 August 2024 Chatham House and Online

Experts analyse rising foreign recruitment, current counter-radicalisation efforts and challenge past Chatham House predictions made of the Central Asia region.

In 2014, Chatham House released a report titled The Myth of Post-Soviet Muslim Radicalisation in the Central Asian Republics. At that time, a significant, Western-funded counter-radicalisation industry was addressing what was believed to be a major issue of Islamic violent extremism in the region.

Over the past decade, two key developments have occurred. First, Western interest in the region has declined in favour of traditional geopolitical concerns. Second, while violent extremism incidents within Central Asia remain rare, there has been a notable recruitment of Central Asians by foreign groups, with several attacks carried out by Central Asians overseas.

In this event, the original report’s authors, John Heathershaw and David Montgomery, will discuss whether the report’s arguments are still valid and how we might answer these questions today.

This raises several questions:

• What did the report accurately predict, and where did it fall short?
• How can we explain the lack of violent extremist organisations (VEOs) within Central Asia but the presence of Central Asians in VEOs abroad?
• Could repression by Central Asian states both domestically and transnationally have contributed to this issue?
• What, if anything, can the counter-radicalisation industry do today to address this problem more effectively?

Please note that in-person places are limited. Please wait for confirmation before participating. 

A world in transition and the future of the global workforce 15 October 2024 — 9:00AM TO 10:00AM Anonymous (not verified) 22 August 2024 Chatham House and Online

How are migration and global megatrends shaping international labour?

As the fallout of 2024’s ‘Election Super-Year’ becomes clearer, international policymakers and business leaders must now equip themselves to face the challenges and opportunities of the three key transitions that will dominate the next few decades: the journey toward a greener and healthier world; the transition to a more technologically adept society; and the development of a secure and productive economy for all.

The adaption and evolution of the global workforce is an essential component of all three of these transitions and therefore a prescient analysis of how migration, workforce policies and modern technology trends will impact this ecosystem is essential.

Upskilling the workforce will no doubt remain a key focus for stakeholders. But the question remains, how do these plans move beyond the ‘ideas-phase’ and become policies that will keep pace in the fast-paced, modern and digital workplace?

It may prove harder than ever for these ideas to come to fruition, with the rise of populist and nationalist political thinking fragmenting the balance between local and international labour. Indeed, this often leads to reduced attractiveness of skilled foreign labour in domestic markets.

This puts global business in a very powerful position though, as companies can play an important role in readdressing these narratives, shaping the future of workforce policies and using examples of best practice to improve access, mobility and ultimately economic productivity, for the benefit of all.

Through this event, in partnership with EY, the panel analyses how migration, skills development agendas and global megatrends, such as technology, sustainability and the global economy, will shape developments in the years to come.

A networking breakfast precedes this event, served between 0800 and 0900 BST.

Director’s Briefing: Assessing foreign policy challenges for the next US president 5 September 2024 — 2:00PM TO 3:00PM Anonymous (not verified) 27 August 2024 Chatham House and Online

This briefing will explore what challenges might await the winner of 2024 US presidential election.

As the 2024 US Presidential election draws closer, the future direction of American foreign policy seems ever more uncertain. Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate, appears to be embracing many of Biden’s policies, but she brings a different background, and most likely a different team, so change is likely.  Donald Trump has more well-known views on foreign policy, but the context for a second Trump administration would be very different than the first.

The next U.S. President will be confronted a world in need of leadership with two major wars, a more assertive and capable China, a climate crisis, ungoverned technological change, emerging powers that demand a seat at the table, and debt distress across much of the developing world.

Please join us for this critical conversation covering:

• How will US-China strategic competition and the threat of conflict over Taiwan challenge US policy makers?
• What are the risks and challenges posed by Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine?
• How does war in the Middle East and the threat of regional escalation shape US foreign policy?

How can young people in MENA thrive despite economic and political insecurity? 24 September 2024 — 2:00PM TO 3:00PM Anonymous (not verified) 30 August 2024 Online

Experts share insights on how young people navigate challenges and find opportunities in a changing domestic and regional landscape.

Across the Middle East and North Africa young people between the ages of 15 and 29 comprise around 24 per cent of the population in the region. As the complex regional geopolitical developments unfold, the majority of these young people are living in a time of economic and political insecurity, with many, such as Iraqis and Libyans, also growing up during conflict and uncertainty.

Enhanced education and employment programs are key opportunities for development and stability in the region. Despite this, limited resources and competing priorities have meant that governments often struggle to deliver competitive educational and employment opportunities and lack the capacity and funding for education reform and active labour market policy development. Key tensions that pit modernity and autonomy against tradition and control continue to frame the education and skills development landscape.

This webinar will address:

• The challenges young people within the MENA region face in different contexts;
• The role education and employment play in developing skills for 21st century challenges;
• Spaces for young people to practice citizenship and participate in political processes;
• Youth’s economic prospects while navigating the tumultuous backdrop of enduring conflict and authoritarianism. 

Member’s question time: Is Russia losing the South Caucasus? 22 October 2024 — 1:00PM TO 1:30PM Anonymous (not verified) 2 September 2024 Online

Join us and ask Chatham House Senior Research Fellow, Natalie Sabanadze anything about the situation in the Caucasus. Submit your questions in advance.

Whilst Russia focuses on its illegal invasion of Ukraine, the situation at its southern border is evolving. Relations between the three states in the South Caucasus and Moscow have never been easy as Russia tried to maintain its dominance by leveraging vulnerabilities, playing one side against another to keep conflicts simmering and even engaging in open military aggression.  Although the violence seen in the 1990s and early 2000s has abated, the war in Ukraine has had an indirect impact on the region, bringing a change to the status quo.

Russia abandoned its long-standing support for Armenia, allowing for the collapse of Nagorny-Karabakh and the restoration of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan with the backing of Turkey. As a result, Azerbaijan has emerged as a dominant regional player with Baku recently declaring its interest to join BRICS.  Turkey’s influence has grown, while Armenia frustrated by Russia’s change of heart has been turning cautiously towards the EU and the US.

In Georgia, meanwhile, the ruling party has been consolidating its grasp on power, rolling back democratic reforms and pivoting away from the West. Georgia’s long-awaited European integration process has been suspended, following the adoption of the Russian-style foreign agents legislation.

Join us as our Senior Research Fellow in the Russia and Eurasia Programme answers your questions in this quick-fire session assessing the extent to which the Russian influence has changed since the start of the invasion of Ukraine and who is there to fill the vacuum; how geopolitical contestation in the region is going to impact aspirations of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia; and much more.

Submit your questions to Natalie Sabanadze in advance of the event. Your questions will drive the conversation.

Making the circular economy work for global development: how the UN Summit of the Future can deliver 23 September 2024 — 6:15PM TO 9:00PM Anonymous (not verified) 5 September 2024 Online

This policy roundtable focusses on how to advance implementation of a global approach and collaboration to an inclusive circular economy for an updated post-2030 SDG framework.

As the world looks beyond the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) towards the post-2030 era, integrating the principles of the circular economy into the future global development agenda becomes imperative.  

A new Chatham House research paper about the role of the circular economy for the SDGs and their possible extension into the post-2030 development agenda will be launched in September 2024 during the UN Summit of the Future and the New York Climate Week. The paper outlines the rationale for the integration of circular economy goals into for the next crucial phase of international development and how to meet net-zero 2050 targets. It provides actionable recommendations on international cooperation mechanisms for policymakers and stakeholders at the UN Summit for the Future in 2024 and beyond.

The aim of the roundtable is to bring together stakeholders and leaders from intergovernmental organisations, business, governments and civil society. The focus of the roundtable meeting is: 

• Reflections on the Summit of the Future and the role of circularity for an updated post-2030 SDG framework.
• Discussion on key aspects of the institutional arrangements and international coordination that are needed for a globally coordinated approach to achieve an inclusive circular economy that supports SDG implementation. 
• Development of joint strategies on how to advance implementation of a global approach and collaboration to an inclusive circular economy as a follow-up from the Summit of the Future.

The objective is to emerge from the roundtable with a clearer roadmap for translating the recommendations for international coordination into concrete actions, with a shared commitment to driving meaningful change on the international level.

The event is co-hosted by Chatham House and partners from the Global Circular Economy Roadmap initiative including the African Circular Economy Network, the African Development Bank, Circular Change, Circular Innovation Lab, Circle Economy, EU CE Stakeholder Platform, Hanns Seidel Foundation, Institute of Global Environmental Strategies, Sitra, UNIDO, World Business Council on Sustainable Development, World Economic Forum and the Wyss Academy for Nature.

Further background information is available on the initiative website.

More speakers to be announced.

Fostering inclusive health systems amidst geopolitical instability 13 October 2024 — 9:00AM TO 10:00AM Anonymous (not verified) 11 September 2024 Sheraton Berlin Grand Hotel Esplanade

How can we build trust and inclusivity in the health sector in a fractured geopolitical environment?

Building trust in government, service provision and delivery are crucial considerations for policymakers who aim to make local, national and international health systems more inclusive. In the health space, trust can be a matter of life and death. Understanding and modulating policies that account for the trust factor, alongside the geopolitical determinants of health, can lead to more inclusive decision making and thus better health outcomes for larger proportions of a population.

International unity is key to addressing the challenges posed by geopolitical instability, which include disinformation campaigns, rising nationalism and growing divisions between states. If countries can find common ground through an inclusive approach to health, the effects could be transformative in achieving global health and equity targets.

This discussion, held in partnership with Haleon, will examine what it takes to foster trust and resilience in the health sector, achieve global inclusivity aims and chart a path for the public and private spheres to come together to navigate a fractured geopolitical environment.

• In what ways can localised health inclusivity data help policymakers to alleviate gaps in healthcare provision and why is this an essential element in instilling trust across the system?
• What role should multilateral organizations play in setting precedents for health inclusivity around the world?
• How do health inclusivity policies empower the service user and help reduce the burden placed on public healthcare systems?
• How can the health sector come together to ensure individuals are included within their own health decisions, are able to access services regardless of demographics and geography and trust their healthcare providers?

This event will be held at the Sheraton Hotel, Grand Esplanade, Berlin in the margins of the World Health Summit. You do not need a ticket for the World Health Summit to attend this event.

Labour Party Conference – International affairs networking brunch 24 September 2024 — 11:00AM TO 12:00PM Anonymous (not verified) 16 September 2024 Labour – Grace 1 Suite, Hilton Hotel, Liverpool

Hosted by Sir Simon Fraser, Chairman of Chatham House.

This event is taking place at the Hilton Hotel, Grace 1 Suite, Liverpool.

You are warmly invited to join us for an exclusive networking brunch at the 2024 Labour Party Conference.

Sir Simon Fraser, Chairman of Chatham House, and Olivia O’Sullivan, Director of Chatham House’s UK in the World Programme, will deliver opening remarks, followed by an interactive networking session where you will have the chance to engage with a wide range of stakeholders. Join us to connect with key senior parliamentary, corporate and media attendees at the Labour Party Conference.

This event will be taking place outside of the secure zone.

In conversation with Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK 17 October 2024 — 10:00AM TO 11:00AM Anonymous (not verified) 16 September 2024 Chatham House and Online

The former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine offers insight into the evolution of Russia’s war against his country, and what to expect next.

More than two and a half years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion, Ukraine has consistently adapted to Moscow’s advances by implementing new strategies.

Ukraine’s recent incursion into Russia’s Kursk region demonstrated operational tactical ingenuity, surprising both Russia and Ukraine’s Western supporters. Success against the Russian Black Sea Fleet has already showcased how Ukraine can skilfully beat back Russian aggression. And increasing numbers of targeted strikes on Russian supply depots and airfields are disrupting Russian operations behind the front lines.

Critical Western supplies continue to resource Ukraine’s military. But questions linger over the quantity and sustainability of these supplies. Kyiv will be watching the US presidential election in November as its biggest backer goes to the polls with the possibility of an outcome that could seriously affect the war. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to edge forward in Donbas, despite heavy casualties, and strike at Ukrainian towns and cities from the air, demonstrating that President Putin has no intention of relinquishing the fight.

Amid these complexities, Ambassador Zaluzhnyi will discuss how the war is changing both sides, advances on the battlefield, and what dangers lie ahead for Ukraine in the coming months. Other key questions include:

• What kind of enemy is Russia today and how to secure its strategic defeat in Ukraine;
• How have new strategies, such as the recent incursion into the Kursk region, affected the state of play on the battlefield?
• What technologies and armaments does Ukraine need from its Western allies in both the short and long term?

Individual membership provides you with the complete Chatham House experience, connecting you with a unique global policy community. Find out more about membership.

In conversation with Martin Griffiths: How can a divided world address conflict? 1 October 2024 — 10:00AM TO 11:00AM Anonymous (not verified) 16 September 2024 Chatham House and Online

The former United Nations Under-Secretary-General describes how a weakening multilateralism system and dysfunctional political diplomacy can be revitalized by a humanitarian approach.

The 2024 US Election: Global Consequences 26 September 2024 — 5:30PM TO 6:45PM Anonymous (not verified) 17 September 2024 Online

This webinar explores what is at stake for US policy in key regions around the globe.

In the lead up to the 2024 US presidential election, Chatham House experts discuss:

• What is at stake for US policy towards China, Europe, and Latin America and what challenges will confront the next US president?

• Can the US lead when its partners and allies are continually dissatisfied by the new turn in its trade and economic policy?

• What are the core humanitarian challenges and how can they be addressed?