Arts and Entertainment

Charlamagne tha God and Devi Brown Team Up for the 6th Annual Mental Wealth Expo in New Jersey

October 7, 2026

A person and person with heads on a wood surface

Growing up on the South Side of Chicago during the ’90s, mental health awareness was virtually nonexistent and rarely discussed openly. Although various initiatives and events likely existed at the time to promote the topic, mental health awareness did not command the widespread visibility it enjoys today. Thanks to advocates like author and radio personality Charlamagne tha God, communities that were once overlooked are now receiving vital education on mental health awareness.

Mental Health Matters

In honor of World Mental Health Day on October 10th, the media mogul is teaming up with the Mental Wealth Alliance and its president, Devi Brown, to present the 6th Annual Mental Wealth Expo at the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

As a recognized authority in wellness, Brown understands that establishing mental health awareness fundamentally relies on providing access.

“As a founding board member of the Mental Wealth Alliance, I believe everyone deserves access to the tools, care, and community that support their mental well-being,” she tells Brown Girl Gumbo.

“The Mental Wealth Expo is Charlamagne Tha God’s vision put into action: a commitment to making mental health education and support free, accessible, and rooted in community. It is an honor to help bring that vision to life featuring mental health leaders like Iyanla Vanzant, Dr. Julius Thomas, Kier Gaines, and Dr. Marc Brackett, to name a few, who each bring meaningful perspectives on healing, growth, and well-being.”

Shedding the Stigma

This free, all-ages event provides attendees with actionable strategies for recharging and emotional regulation through healing spaces, interactive panel discussions, and re-centering resources.

Brown adds, “ For so many people, especially within the Black community, asking for support can carry generations of silence and stigma. The Expo creates a welcoming space where we can have honest conversations, learn together, and feel seen in our experiences. My hope is that everyone leaves feeling less alone, more connected to themselves, and equipped to take a meaningful next step in their healing. You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis to care for yourself. You are worthy of that care today.”

For tickets and more information, click here.

What strategies or practices do you use to improve your mental health and overall wellbeing?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Wellness | Leave a Comment

‘Firebird’ Takes Flight in Latest Revival at Dance Theatre of Harlem

April 24, 2026

Photo by Nir Arieli, Courtesy of Dance Theatre of Harlem

Last week, the Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) and Gateways Festival Orchestra joined forces for the first time to bring Firebird, a renowned ballet to the stage at New York City Center. Over the course of three nights, audiences were treated to a masterclass in artistry featuring mesmerizing choreography, classical music, and awe-inspiring costumes.

For the first time, in more than two decades, the spellbinding ballet was revived by DTH and arguably better than ever.

Set in a lush, mythical Caribbean forest, the performance centered around a magical, captivating bird (Alexandra Hutchinson) whose vibrant light must overcome a world of darkness. The symbolism also included the dangers of coveted beauty and the undeniable power of freedom.

Fanciful dancers outfitted in custom, deeply pigmented purple, red, and orange hues designs by legendary, multi-hyphenate Geoffrey Holder, were akin to gem-colored gumdrops gracefully prancing across the stage. Their fluid movements, choreographed by Robert Garland, were complemented by the transcendent orchestral sounds of award-winning conductor Jeri Lynne Johnson.

Seeing these talented, Black artists executing their craft at the top of their game left us speechless. From the timeless story to the breathtaking artistry, the classic, reimagined ballet was one of the best performances we’d seen in a long time.

We just hope it isn’t another 20 years before audiences can see Firebird with this talented ensemble in such an iconic venue. This seismic cultural collaboration was a match made in heaven.

While the critically-acclaimed ballet is no longer showing at DTH, check their website for more moving productions.

What’s the latest live performance you’ve seen? What did you enjoy the most about it?

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Beyoncé Makes Levi’s Look Bootylicious in the Brand’s Iconic Reimagined Ad

February 24, 2025

If the BeyHive wasn’t already buzzing, loyal Beyoncé fans woke up to a pleasant surprise this morning. The global icon in collaboration with the Levi’s® brand, debuted “Pool Hall,” the second chapter of the REIIMAGINE campaign.

“Pool Hall” reinterprets the iconic 1991 Levi’s® ad capturing Beyoncé as she takes on the local shark in a high-stakes game of pool while wearing and celebrating Levi’s® products as modern style staples that continue to evolve – embracing bold interpretations and encouraging wearers to make them their own.

Photo Courtesy: Levi’s®

“There isn’t another wardrobe piece that evokes comfort, modern elegance, classic Americana attire, and nostalgia the way denim does,” Beyoncé said in a release. “And when I think of all those things, I think of Levi’s.” She continued, “For the second chapter in our collaboration we had even more fun in reimagining the denim on denim narrative, through the lens of a woman, who can be sexy, bold and a fierce competitor, all at once. We wanted to celebrate the duality of grace and power.”

The clip shows Beyoncé decked out in a bedazzled denim getup that the Queen Bey pulls off effortlessly. We’re sure that this glittering ensemble will serve as inspiration for the legions of fans who will flock to her Cowboy Carter tour this spring.

Missed the ad? Check it out here:

Do you plan on seeing the Cowboy Carter show?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Fashions | 5 Comments

So You Want to Be a Traveler Writer? Greater Palm Springs’ ‘Meet the Mentors’ Program Might Be Your Ticket

January 3, 2025

If you’ve seen traditional journalists and influencers filling your social feeds with travel content and wondered how they do it, the folks at Visit Greater Palm Springs want to help.

The city’s tourism bureau is back with its third annual Meet the Mentors program, which was created to help aspiring travel journalists jumpstart their journalism careers.

This coming April, selected participants will receive mentorship from real world travel journalists (like yours truly), visit Greater Palm Springs, and gain priceless tips and information that will help catapult their travel writing endeavors. What’s more, they’ll also work with their mentor to publish their very own piece on the Visit Greater Palm Springs blog.

Time’s running out so act fast!

Now through January 6, 2025, newbie writers are invited to submit for a chance to participate in the program, which will take place in Greater Palm Springs from April 14-17, 2025. Click here to enter.

Good luck and see you there!

Photo Courtesy of Visit Greater Palm Springs

Have you ever visited Palm Springs? If so, what did you enjoy the most?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Travel, travel & liefstyle, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

New Victory Theater Pulls the Curtain Back with New Walking Tour

September 9, 2024

If you’re a mom living in New York City like me, chances are you’ve taken your kids to The New Victory Theater. Over the years, I’ve hopped on the subway and whisked both of my children ages 10 and 14 off to Times Square at the first and only theater entirely dedicated to year-round programming for kids and families. From awe-inspiring circus acts to mind-boggling magic shows, we’ve seen countless performances at the acclaimed theater.

So, when I was offered the opportunity to tag along on a tour of the 100-year-old theater responsible for sparking kids’ imaginations and opening their worlds to the wonder of live theater, I jumped at the chance.

Offered through Broadway Up Close, the 90-minute tour is a theater lover’s dream come true. For the first time, visitors can get a sneak peek at secret spots throughout the theater, as well as listen to a fascinating oral history.

Photo credit: Mark La Rosa

Hosted by Tim Dolan, an actor and owner of Broadway Up Close, the tour take visitors through decades of history on 42nd Street and share interesting anecdotes, architectural oddities, and more for groups interested in learning the thrilling tale of what came before at the New Victory Theater.

“Tour-goers are in for a treat as we explore the nooks and crannies of this historic theater,” says Dolan. “The New Victory Theater perfectly encapsulates the rise and fall – and rise again – of America’s most famous block.”

My two children have attended countless shows at New Victory Theater. It’s been one of the constant creative art forms and outlets in their young lives.

Not only did I get an up-close-and-personal look at the iconic theater, but my kids also came along too. After only visiting the theater when its seats are filled with little people scrambling about, it was cool for them to see the theater completely empty, and the stage stripped.

Both of my kids enjoyed learning fun facts, seeing rare photos, and checking out spots in the theater that they’d never have access to without this tour.

If you appreciate history, theater, and New York City and are looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon or evening, don’t miss this Broadway Up Close tour.

Tickets go on sale September 13 and are available for $56 for adults and $51 for children ages 12 and younger. They can be purchased online through Broadway Up Close. Please note that reservations are required.

Have you ever taken a theater tour? If so, what did you think? If not, would you be interested in taking one?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

Things to See in NYC: ‘Aanika’s Elephants’ At New Victory Theater

March 31, 2024

When it comes to imaginative storytelling with powerful messaging, shows at New Victory Theater in New York City always deliver. Their latest production, Aanika’s Elephants is no exception.

Through masterful puppetry and artful set design, the story beautifully captures the bond between an orphan girl named Aanika (Jimmica Collins) and her beloved baby elephant “Little.”

Directed by Pam Arciero and written by Annie Evans, the touching performance centers around the unusual pair’s mutual love as they navigate their new worlds.

Educating audiences on the horrors of poachers, the plight of elephants, and the importance of honoring all living creatures, the production tackles tough issues that little minds can understand and appreciate. The lessons are delicately woven throughout the performance, creating an entertaining experience that is enlightening, not preachy. The show also touches on the power of perseverance, embracing independence and coping with the loss of loved ones.

These are challenges that everyone will face and this heartwarming production thoughtfully brings them to light. It also focuses on how family can be defined.

While the messages are impactful and prominent, make no mistake — the wiry puppets are the stars of the show. They effortlessly come to life with every sudden move and gentle gesture. They possess such a strong and dominant presence, that their puppeteers become virtually invisible.

What’s more, the musical score takes the theatrical journey to the next level. With rhythms that celebrate the sounds of Africa, the story’s authenticity is elevated with every drumbeat.

If you’re looking for a uniquely educational show that kids ages six and up will enjoy, head to the theater by April 7th for an unforgettable performance.

For tickets and more information, click here.

What show are you looking forward to seeing this year?

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Category: Arts and Entertainment | 2 Comments

What to Do in NYC This Weekend: Visit Spike Lee: Creative Sources Exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum

February 10, 2024

It’s not every day that you meet a living legend — but that’s exactly what happened when my son and I visited the Brooklyn Museum to see the Spike Lee: Creative Sources exhibition earlier this week.

Believe it or not, shortly after entering, we spotted Spike Lee. Yes, the man behind the exhibit. What’s more, the prolific director was giving Jeffrey Wright, the Academy Award-nominated actor, a private tour. When I approached the accomplished pair, I was hesitant because I didn’t want to disturb them. However, I also didn’t want to pass up the opportunity to introduce them to my son who is already an aspiring director at the tender age of 10. They graciously obliged and offered to take photos and imparted kind and wise words before returning to their tour.

Spike Lee, my son, and Jeffrey Wright at the Spike Lee: Creative Sources exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum.

After that unforgettable encounter, we continued making our way through the sprawling exhibition. If you’ve ever visited Lee’s 40 Acres and a Mule Filmmakers headquarters in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, you’ll recognize some of the priceless pieces from there, but also so much more.

From movie posters to his coveted Oscars, the exhibition boasts more than 450 works drawn from his personal collection including signed musical instruments from iconic artists, prestigious artwork, pop culture memorabilia, and other cherished items.

The exhibition is separated into several rooms dedicated to different aspects and inspirations behind some of Lee’s award-winning work. For instance, the first part of the exhibit is called, “Black History & Culture.” In this space, historical pieces like Sambo figurines and segregated water fountain signs were on full on display — influences behind his cult classic film, Bamboozled. Other areas housed other treasured pieces from his massive collection like storyboards from Do the Right Thing and letterman jackets from School Daze. Of course, as a major sports fan, there was also a room devoted to his beloved New York Knicks.

Together they weave a vivid tapestry that thread Lee’s experiences and fuels his creativity and unmatched storytelling.

If you haven’t made your way to Brooklyn to check out this incredible exhibition yet, you still have time. The exhibition officially closes tomorrow: Sunday, February 11. So, you’ll have to act fast, but I can guarantee it will be worth it. I just can’t promise that you’ll meet the legendary filmmaker and pop culture icon like we were so lucky to do.