Charleston SC Events January February 2017

Charleston Restaurant Week

Jan 4 - 22

The next installment of Charleston Restaurant Week is set! The event, executed by the Greater Charleston Restaurant Association, is one of the most highly anticipated culinary events in the Charleston area. It is an opportunity to enjoy the world-renowned cuisine of the Lowcountry as participating restaurants offer prix fixe lunch and dinner menus. For a full list of participating restaurants, please visit the website. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

2nd Sunday on King Street

Jan 8 & Feb 12

Lined with locally owned shops, King Street has been hailed as one of the best shopping spots in America according to U.S. News and World Report. For one Sunday afternoon of every month, cars are re-routed so the street may become a lively pedestrian fair with outdoor dining, live music and special deals offered by the merchants. 2ndsundayonkingstreet.com

7th Annual Charleston Marathon

Jan 14

The Charleston marathon is a scenic 26.2-mile run that will showcase the beauty and history of the Lowcountry, starting in downtown Charleston and ending in North Charleston. Music and performance groups from local schools and community will dot the course to keep you moving! For registration and additional information, please visit the website. 8am. charlestonmarathon.com

Shen Yun

Jan 17 - 18Based in New York, Shen Yun brings to life 5,000 years of Chinese civilization through classical Chinese dance and music. Shen Yun performs in over 100 cities every year. For thousands of years, Chinese artists cultivated virtue, believing that to create true art worthy of the heavens, there must first be inner purity. Today, Shen Yun’s artists follow this noble tradition. The result is a performance of consummate beauty, purity, and goodness. 7:30pm. Charleston Gaillard Center, 843-242-3099. gaillardcenter.com

Charleston Comedy Festival

Jan 18 – 21

Stand-up comedians and improv and sketch artists from around the country come together for a weekend of epic comedy. Theatre locations vary. charlestoncomedyfestival.com

“Hello Pops!” A Tribute to Louis Armstrong Feat. Wycliffe Gordan Quintet

Jan 19

Renowned musician and composer, Wycliffe Gordon, brings to life some of the most popular Louis Armstrong songs. Backed with a variety of instruments, Gordon's Quintet pays tribute to a legendary jazz artist while bringing their own artistic vibes and original songs as well. Wycliffe Gordon has performed and been acknowledged throughout his career from performing at the 2000 Grammy Awards show, and being recognized in 2015 as the Artist of the Year by the Augusta Arts Council. Wycliffe Gordon was also named "Best Trombone" in 2016 by Downbeat Magazine's Critic Poll and was also recognized as the Trombonist of Year 2016 awarded by the Jazz Journalists Association. East Beach Conference Center, 843-768-9166. kiawahisland.org

Michael Carbonaro Live

Jan 19

If you have ever wondered what it feels like to be on the other side of the charmingly devious Carbonaro as he works his magic to make people believe the unbelievable, now is your chance to find out. Michael Carbonaro Live! is jam-packed with audience interaction, hilarious video clips, and a whirlwind of mind-blowing magic performed live on stage. The New York Times has called his unique blend of magic and bizarre antics, “Genial and witty…utterly convincing.” After years of performing in comedy clubs and school gymnasiums, Carbonaro started winning roles as an actor in both television and film, leading to a breakout series of hit magical appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Charleston Gaillard Center, 843-579-6452. gaillardcenter.com

Charleston Jazz Festival

Jan 21

The highly anticipated Charleston Jazz Festival is back for its third year in the Holy City with a star-studded line-up, including YOUR Charleston Jazz Orchestra. The Festival announces that the 2017 headliner concert will feature The Manhattan Transfer and Take 6, two of the most highly acclaimed, award-winning vocal groups performing today. The two groups boast a remarkable 20 Grammy Awards, and a range of styles that covers nearly every genre of popular music; from jazz to swing, from gospel and R&B to pop. The concert includes each group performing a set, culminating with a duet featuring the tightest harmonies known in the music business as well as innovative arrangements and funky grooves. 7:30pm. Gaillard Center, 843-641-0011. thecharlestonjazzfestival.com

Wild Kratts – Live!

Jan 21

The wildly popular PBS Kids television show, Wild Kratts, is coming to the live stage. Animated Kratt Brothers, Martin and Chris, come to real life in a classically Wild Kratts story. Off "To the Creature Rescue!”, the Emmy nominated Kratt Brothers activate some fan favorite Creature Power Suits to confront a comic villain. Through hilarious pratfalls and amazing animal ‘wow facts’ the Wild Kratts team rescues their favorite invention from Zach’s clutches so the animals of the creature world are safe once again. North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 843-529-5000. northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com

37th Annual Charleston Boat Show

Jan 27 -29

The Charleston Boat Show has grown into  the biggest boat show and sale in the Lowcountry.  It specializes in new powerboats, including everything from small jon boats, skiffs and cruisers, to yachts and ski boats. There is something for everyone’s taste and budget. It’s a fact that this show offers incredible deals, and previews of the hottest new boats available on the market. A must-attend event for family-friendly fun, it’s everything you need for life on the water. Fri noon-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm. Charleston Area Convention Center, 843-529-5011. thecharlestonboatshow.com

Lowcountry Oyster Festival

Jan 29

The Lowcountry Oyster Festival is the world’s largest oyster festival and has been named one of the “top 20 events in the southeast” by Southeastern Tourism Society. Highlights include the legendary “Oyster Shucking” and “Oyster Eating” Contests, live music on the main stage, wine, a selection of domestic and imported beers, a Children’s Area and a “Food Court” showcasing a variety of local favorite restaurants to satisfy everyone’s taste. The Lowcountry Oyster Festival is a charity fundraiser. 10:30am-5pm. Boone Hall Plantation, 843-577-4030. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

Simone Porter, Violinist with Accompanist

Jan 29

Seattle-raised violinist, Simone Porter joins the Town of Kiawah to perform classical music accompanied by pianist Armen Guzelimian. The concert includes works from Mozart, Janacek, Part and Brahms. Simone Porter made her professional solo career at the age of 10; now at just 19 years old, she is internationally acclaimed and garnered worldwide attention for her command of the violin. Don't miss out on this opportunity to see a rising star and violinist prodigy - the best part is it won't cost you a dime. Sponsored by the Kiawah Arts & Cultural Events Council. Church of Our Savior, 843-768-9166. kiawahisland.org

42nd Street

Jan 31

The quintessential backstage musical comedy classic, 42nd Street is the song and dance fable of Broadway with an American Dream story and includes some of the greatest songs ever written, such as “We’re In The Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” and of course “42nd Street.” Based on a novel by Bradford Ropes and Busby Berkeley’s 1933 movie, 42nd Street tells the story of a starry-eyed young dancer named Peggy Sawyer who leaves her Allentown home and comes to New York to audition for the new Broadway musical Pretty Lady. This sparkling new production will be directed by co-author Mark Bramble and choreographed by Randy Skinner, the team who staged the 2001 Tony Award-winning Best Musical Revival. 7:30pm. Charleston Gaillard Center, 843-242-3099. gaillardcenter.com

9th Annual Gourmet & Grapes

Feb 2 - 5

Gourmet & Grapes is a weekend-long culinary extravaganza that is the only fundraiser in the Lowcountry that brings together renowned chefs and winemakers to raise money for cancer research. The event takes place at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, benefits Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina. During the weekend you'll experience an exclusive Black Tie Private Dinner, Lunch and Wine Seminars, Wine Odyssey, Silent and Live Auction, regional chefs preparing specialty and traditional favorites, vintner wine parings, and so much more! 843-768-6296, kiawahresort.com/gourmet-grapes

9th Annual Chase After A Cure

Feb 4

Release your inner child at the ninth annual Chase After a Cure Gala. With the theme of “A Kid at Heart,” this year’s event will appeal to the kid in everyone.Set for 7pm at Charleston Gaillard Center. The gala raises money to fund local research for treatments and cures for childhood cancer, and welcomes Charleston vocalist Quiana Parler as the featured entertainment. This black-tie optional gala features food from top local restaurants, an open bar and a live and silent auction. chaseafteracure.com

Dance Theatre of Harlem

Feb 8

Known for its thrilling performances that successfully challenge preconceived notions, The Dance Theatre of Harlem consists of 14 racially diverse dance artists who will perform an eclectic, demanding repertoire at the Charleston Gaillard Center. Francesca Harper will create a new work to Attacca String Quartet. The Dance Theatre of Harlem brings new life to the classical ballet art form. They celebrate African American culture through treasured classical and neo-classical works by George Balanchine and resident choreographer Robert Garland, to cutting edge contemporary works. 7:30pm. 843-724-5212, gaillardcenter.com

The Lowcountry Irish Festival

Feb 11 – 12

The Lowcountry is coming together for a three-day, family-friendly Irish Festival in February 2017. The goal is to bring all of South Carolina's Irish and Celtic communities together in Charleston as a unified celebration of heritage. The festival will feature authentic Irish music and food, Irish dancing, children's activities and historical insight. The inaugural Lowcountry Irish Festival will take place at Omar Shriners Auditorium in Mt. Pleasant. With Charleston's rich history in the Irish and Celtic culture at the forefront, this event will be thriving with tradition! Attendees will be able to learn stories of Irish plantation owners, immigrants, laborers, pirates and the Irishmen who powered the HL Hunley with their bare hands. Contributing local groups will include; The Charleston Irish Historical Society, The Ancient Order of Hibernians, The College of Charleston School of Irish Studies, The Charleston Hibernian Society, The Charleston Hurling and Rugby Clubs and The Shriners. lowcountryirishfest.com

Cupid's Undie Run

Feb 11

This Valentine’s Day weekend, come put the hilarity in charity with hundreds of half-naked runners taking to the streets in celebration of their fundraising for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. Be a part of something great. Last year Cupid’s raised over $3.5 Million to EndNF so let's make this year’s fundraising (and party) the biggest and best yet. Start a team, join a team, or just run solo and make some new friends! Noon-4pm. Loggerhead's Beach Grill, cupidsundierun.com

Lang Lang

Feb 13

One word applies to Lang Lang, to the musician, to the man, to his worldview, to those who come into contact with him, it is “inspiration”. It re-sounds like a musical motif through his life and career. He inspires millions with his open-hearted, emotive playing, whether it be in intimate recitals or on the grandest of stages. He forms enduring musical partnerships with the world’s greatest artists, from conductors such as Daniel Barenboim, Gustavo Dudamel and Sir Simon Rattle, to artists from outside of classical music – among them dubstep dancer Marquese “nonstop” Scott, king of the crooners Julio Inglesias and jazz titan Herbie Hancock. He builds cultural bridges between East and West, frequently introducing Chinese music to Western audiences, and vice versa. Charleston Gaillard Cemter, 843-724-5212. gaillardcenter.com

Holland Lifelong Learing “Blue Mind: Water for your Wellbeing”

Feb 15

Discover the connection between water and human health as told by a leader in the emerging field of neuroconservation. Take part in the Blue Marbles Project, aimed at celebrating the beauty and fragility of our planet. Davies Auditorium at Ashley Hall. scaquarium.org

Peter and the Starcatcher

Feb 15 – Mar 5

Join the swashbuckling, madcap adventures of "Peter and the Starcatcher". The story begins before Peter was Pan, when he found himself lost and orphaned and alone. Whisked away on a pirate ship, we join Peter on a breathtaking adventure and discover how Peter made his way to Neverland and into the hearts of every child and the adults they become. Fun for the whole family, the five-time Tony Award-winning show features a dozen actors playing more than 100 unforgettable characters. This innovative, hilarious and imaginative prequel to "Peter Pan" will have you HOOKed the moment you let your imagination take flight. Show times vary on select dates. Dock Street Theatre, 843-577-7183. charlestonstage.com

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

Feb 17 - 19

SEWE is a three-day showcase of everything we love about wildlife and nature. It brings together people of all ages, men and women, sportsmen and conservationists, artists and artisans, fans and families. Through an incredible lineup of events – from fine art exhibits, conservation education, sporting demonstrations and parties, SEWE invites us all to explore our “wild” side and pay tribute to our naturally beautiful world. For a full event schedule, please visit the website. 843-723-1748, sewe.com

Chefs' Feast

Feb 19

Led by Chef Robert Carter, Chefs' Feast is an annual collaboration between the Lowcountry Food Bank and nearly 30 of the area's most celebrated chefs who offer up delectable bites – both savory and sweet – for guests to enjoy. Beyond the decadent array of food offerings, nearly 1,000 guests indulge in a hosted bar, enjoy the Big Band sounds of the Ray Michaels Band, and meet the Lowcountry's own celebrity chefs as they serve up their signature dishes. 843-747-8146, lowcountryfoodbank.org

ONCE the Musical

Feb 21 – 22

ONCE, winner of eight 2012 Tony Awards including Best Musical and winner of the 2013 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. ONCE is the celebrated new musical based on the Academy Award-winning film. It tells the story of an Irish musician and a Czech immigrant drawn together by their shared love of music. Over the course of one fateful week, their unexpected friendship and collaboration evolves into a powerful but complicated romance, heightened by the raw emotion of the songs they create together. Brought to the stage by an award-winning team of visionary artists and featuring an ensemble cast of gifted actor/musicians, ONCE is a musical celebration of life and love: thrilling in its originality, daring in its honesty... and unforgettable in every way. North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 843-529-5007. northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com

Taj Express

Feb 23

Taj Express explodes with the sounds of India, capturing the vibrant, expressive spirit of Bollywood movies that have entertained people for generations. Through a fusion of film, dance, and music, audiences are taken on a live, cinematic journey through modern Indian culture and society. This high-energy production celebrates Bollywood culture and deep traditions featuring colorful costumes, joyful dance, and thrilling live music. Charleston Gaillard Center, 843-724-5212. gaillardcenter.com