.

.

.

.
Contact Carol Allen, (416) 268-2965 or email queenofbeauty7@yahoo.ca for all of your personal skin care and make-up needs

.

.
"Satisfying cravings one taste at a time" - Call Chef Lee Allen at (647) 704-7979 for your personal meal plans and catering needs - Serving the Greater Toronto Area

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Summer Rush @ Canada's Wonderland, Toronto North - Sun July 26th!


Sunday, July 26th, 2009
Kingswood Music Theatre
INSIDE CANADA'S WONDERLAND
Doors 3:00pm Show 4:00pm
Featuring performances by:
Akon
Basshunter
Real McCoy
Robin S
Danny Fernandes
DJ Danny D
September
Marianas Trench
Supercrew (winners of America's Best Dance Crew)
Tickets available at http://www.canadaswonderland.com/, ticketmaster.ca and by phone at 416-870-800
Tickets only $23.99 + tax and convenience charge for Season Pass Holders
And only $49.99 + tax and convenience charge (gets you into the park all day and concert)
All ages event with licensed VIP Section for those 19+
General Admission
Visit: http://www.canadaswonderland.com/

Socacize Ladies Work It Out on the Big People Boat Ride in Toronto!


The Ladies of Socacize put their dance and fitness moves into good use last Friday night on the Big People Boat Ride. Socacize, a Toronto-based fitness regime that incorporates Caribbean and African dance movements, has bootcamp classes designed for people who plan to jump up for the annual Caribana parade which attracts more than a million people annually. And, there was plenty of jumping up and hands in the air grooving to the sounds of calypso, reggae and even a Michael Jackson tribute. Not even a few rain showers and a cool evening breeze could stop the few hundred attendees from having a good time on the spacious Enterprise 2000 as it sailed around the Toronto Harbour. DJs Dr Jay de Soca Prince and Stretch McNeilly kept the vibes sweet, while the Toronto Legends Rhythm section entertained the crowd all night.

John Legend @ The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, ON - Sat July 25th!


John Legend
Sat, Jul 25, 2009 09:00 PM
The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, 377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor, ON
Tickets: $62.68 - $74.18
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

Monday, July 20, 2009

Jamaica Day @ Downsview Park, Toronto - Sat July 25th!


Featuring: Beres Hammond, Nadine Sutherland, Blaxx, Percy Sledge, Professor Nuts, Jay Douglas, Mr. Cooper, Jimmy Reid, Tasha T., Horace Martin, Mikey Dangerous, Tonya P. S. Davis, Tony Anthony, King Ujah, One Shott, K.C., Delee and more!
New Location: Downsview Park, 35 Carl Hill Road, Toronto, Near Keele and Sheppard Ave.
Visit http://www.jamaicadaytoronto.com/

Beres Hammond Live @ Various Locations, Toronto, Thurs July 23 - Sat July 25!


Photo Credit: Carol A. Allen, Reggae Sumfest, 2007, Jamaica
Thurs Jul 23 - Beres Hammond with Culture @ Club NV, Brantford, ON
BERES HAMMOND w/ The Harmony House Singers & Musicians & Special Guest CULTURE
Thursday July 23rd @ Club NV 234 Colborne St. Downtown Brantford, ON
Email Rahim@UltimateEntertainment.ca for info
------------------------------------------------------------
Fri July 24 - BERES HAMMOND & SHALLI LIVE IN CONCERT @ THE BIG SEXY, OSHAWA, ON
"Beres Hammond North American Tour"
What: Dinner Party
Host: Shalli
Start Time: Friday, July 24 at 10:00pm
End Time: Saturday, July 25 at 3:00am
Where: The Big Sexy, Oshawa, ON
To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook/.com/n/?event.php&eid=127461490020&mid=c16079G243c2207G5af0915G7
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Sat Jul 25 - Beres Hammond Live @ Jamaica Day, Downsview Park, ON
With the Harmony House Singers
Visit: http://www.jamaicadaytoronto.com

Summer Heat Feat. Flo Rida & Kevin Rudolf @ Ricoh Coliseum, Toronto - Thurs, July 23rd


Summer Heat 2k9 LIVE at Ricoh!
Y.O.T.E. Inc. presents the hottest line-up of the season for SUMMER HEAT 2k9 featuring: FLO RIDA, KERI HILSON, T-PAIN, KEVIN RUDOLF & JAZMINE SULLIVAN.

This all-star line-up brings the fire to Toronto on July 23rd @ the Ricoh Coliseum. It's going to be blazing!

For info call 416.800.9094 / www.yoteinc.com / email: info@yoteinc.com

Thu, Jul 23, 2009 08:00 PM
GENERAL ADMISSION FLOOR-STANDING
CA $148.50
RESERVED SEATING IN THE STANDS
CA $26.75 - CA $98.50
Ricoh Coliseum, 100 Princes' Blvd., Toronto, ON
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

Trixx: Mistrial @ St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Toronto - Thurs July 23rd


Hosted by Toronto’s Jean Paul and with opening act Patrick Haye, TRIXX’s Mistrial promises to be one of this summer’s highlights. Tickets, ranging from $20-$25, are now available via the St. Lawrence Centre website at www.stlc.com or by phoning 416-366-7723.

TRIXX: Mistrial
Thursday July 23rd, 2009
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts
Inside the Jane Mallet Theatre
27 Front Street East
8 PM Showtime

For more information on TRIXX, please visit www.TRIXXWORLD.com

Friday, July 17, 2009

Russell Peters Free Show at Toronto's Yonge-Dundas Square - Sat Jul 18th!


Russell Peters - Free Show July 18 - Yonge-Dundas Square
Russell Peters will perform a free show at Dundas Square as part of the Just
For Laughs festival on Saturday, July 18th 8:30p.

Congratulations to Toronto native gone Hollywood, Russell Peters, for making the Forbes list of top earning Comedians (tied for #9) earning $10 million smackaroos last year!

http://www.cbc.ca/arts/story/2009/07/15/f-forbes-comedians-salaries-russell-peters-mandel.html

The Harder They Come Sneak Preview from Scotiabank Caribana Launch


Tues July 21 - Sun Aug 23 - The Harder They Come @ The Canon Theatre
NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE DIRECT FROM LONDON'S WEST END
VENUE:
The Canon Theatre
244 Victoria St.
Toronto, ON

SCHEDULE:
Tues - Sat, 8PM
Weds, Sat, Sun, 2PM

RUNNING TIME: 2:45 Tickets currently available as part of Season Subscription package only. Public ticket sales begin June 13!
A hit on London's West End, this exhilarating new musical by Perry Henzell is based on his legendary, ground-breaking film that launched the reggae revolution in pop music. Young singer Ivan Martin leaves his country home for the bright lights of Kingston, dreaming of making it big on the hit parade, but the harsh reality of the Jamaican music scene drives him into a fast and furious life as an outlaw.
A terrific night that breaks all the rules as it shows you a good time... stuffed with raucous life and a raft of reggae classics delivered by a cast who seem intent on searing the songs on your soul!
- The Guardian
Strong language, smoking (non-tobacco products) on stage. Suggested for ages 12 and up. Children under the age of two will not be admitted.

SAVE 25% ON ALL PERFORMANCES (JULY 21 - AUG 23) OF "THE HARDER THEY COME" @ THE CANON THEATRE!

You still have an chance to get a 25% discount on all performances from July 21st to August 23rd

Visit: http://www.mirvish.com/thtc/appleton/

Scotiabank Caribana is Officially Underway! - Highlights from the Official Launch @ Yonge-Dundas Square - 07/14/09

The 42nd Annual Scotiabank Caribana officially kicked off this past Tuesday at a new venue, Yonge-Dundas Square. The launch party, usually held a few blocks west at Nathan Phillip's Square, had to be moved as a result of the city workers on strike. Events such as the King and Queen Competition and Pan Alive traditionally held at Lamport Stadium, a city-owned facilty located at King and Dufferin Streets, have been the topic of much discussion recently. There was some speculation that these events would be cancelled or moved, however, Joe Halstead, Chair of the fesiival managing committee announced that there would be no cancellations and that he was hopeful that a deal would be worked out. The Olympic Island venue used for the Scotiabank Caribana Lime on August 2nd may be moved to another location.

Overall, the two-hour lunchtime launch was filled with lots of entertainment and colourful costumes, however the opening introductions from government representatives, committee members and sponsors dragged on for way too long. So, despite the strike, the parade is scheduled to go ahead as usual along the Lakeshore beginning at the Exhibition Place on August 1st.

For list of events visit: http://www.caribanafestival.com/pagedisplay.aspx?i=203&pmExp=1332








Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Beyonce - The "I AM" Tour @ Molson Ampitheatre, Toronto - Mon Jul 20th


The "I Am" Tour
Mon, Jul 20, 2009 07:30 PM
Tickets: $34.75 - $150.00
Molson Amphitheatre, 909 Lakeshore Blvd. W., Ontario Place, Toronto, ON
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

Maxwell @ Shea's Performing Arts Center, Buffalo, NY - Sun Jul 19th!


Photo Credit: Carol A. Allen, Essence Music Festival, 2009
Tickets: US $37.00 - US US $122.50
Shea's Performing Arts Center, 646 Main Street, Buffalo, NY
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.com/

George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto - Sun Jul 19th!


Sun, Jul 19, 2009 08:00 PM
The Phoenix Concert Theatre, 410 Sherbourne Street, Toronto, ON
GENERAL ADMISSION
CA $46.50
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

Ice Cube @ The Sound Academy, Toronto - Sat Jul 18th!


Toronto, ON
SUPPORTING ACTS: Big Page and Smoke & Mirrors
Sat, Jul 18, 2009 08:00 PM
11 Polson Street, Toronto, ON
THIS IS AN ALL AGES EVENT.
DOORS AT 8:00PM
CA $40.00

Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca for info

The 21st Annual Beaches Jazz Festival, Toronto - Fri Jul 17th - Sun Jul 26th


Visit: http://www.beachesjazz.com for locations and events

Capleton Live @ the Kool Haus, Toronto, ON - Fri Jul 17th!


Visit http://www.dbandit.com for more info

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Essence Music Festival 2009 in Review



Another Essence Music Festival has come and gone and what a phenomenal one it was. With this year being the 15th Anniversary celebration, by all accounts it was probably the best attended one since it's inception.

New Orleans, Louisiana, is the home of the largest African-American music festival which traditionally falls on the fourth of July weekend. Attracting over 200,000 attendees, the festival brings in people from all over the world and is one on the most anticipated yearly events and weekend-getaway destinations.

With mini-concerts, autograph signings, empowerment seminars, taste-testing, dance lessons, and giveaways, The Ernest N. Morial Convention Centre was buzzing with excitement and lots of celebrities. Just some of the people who made special appearances were: Queen Latifah, Michael Bivens, John Legend, Maxwell, Teena Marie, Idris Elba and Al B. Sure.

This year's three-night concert line-up was undeniably one of the best ever. It included a multitude of multi-talented artists such as Beyonce, Neyo, Salt N Pepa, Maxwell, Lionel Richie, Al Green and Anita Baker on the main stages while Raphael Saddiq, Neo-Soul Artist, Ledisi, Brand New Heavies and R&B newcomer, Ryan Leslie, did their thing in the super lounges located in the upper levels of the Superdome.

With the recent death of Michael Jackson still on everyone's minds, most artists took time out to remember him and his contributions to the music world.

Legendary funksters, Frankie Beverly and Maze, whose popular tracks "Joy and Pain" and "Before I Let Go" still rock the dancefloors today, wrapped up the weekend late into the wee hours of the morning as they have done for the last 15 years. A special tribute was done to honour Beverly and he was given the key to the city from Mayor Ray Nagin for his accomplishments. Known for wearing all white at his shows, the majority of the Essence fest goers followed suit as all you could see in the crowd was a sea of white. There is speculation that this may have been Beverly's last appearance at the festival and if it is, it will be a undoubtedly be a great loss.

The 2010 Essence Music Festival promises to be even bigger and better as Essence Magazine celebrates it's 40th year.

Steve Harvey Discusses his Bestseller "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man" at Essence Music Festival, 2009

Essence Music Festival 2009 Live Performances - New Orleans, LA









Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Toots and the Maytals @ Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto - July 12th!


Doors open 08:00 PM
Location: Phoenix Concert Theatre, 410 Sherbourne Street, Toronto, ON
CA $33.50
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Kool & the Gang Get Down in Toronto!


Classic R&B group Kool and the Gang put on an amazing show for their Toronto fans on Monday night, performing at Nathan Phillips Square for the TD Canada Trust Toronto Jazz Festival.

They performed crowd favorites such as "Ladie's Night," "Get Down on It" and their #1 1980's hit, "Celebration" as well as tracks from their newest album, Still Kool, keeping everyone on their feet dancing for the almost two-hour show.

They are proudly celebrating 47 years in the business and with the energy they maintained on stage, definitely proved why they have been one of the entertainment industry's leading groups. Kool and the Gang is set to hit the international stages with upcoming show dates in Berlin, Madrid, and Geneva, later this month.

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Buckwheat Zydeco Brings the Cajun Flavour to TD Canada Trust Toronto Jazz Fest


The TD Canada Trust Toronto Jazz Festival got a taste of Louisiana flavor when Buckwheat Zydeco graced the stages at Nathan Phillips Square as part of his 30th Anniversary tour.

The four-time Grammy nominated popular zydeco performer and accordian player, thrilled fans on Sunday night with his non-stop energy. Born Stanley Dural, Jr., he adopted the name "Buckwheat" because his hair resembled the character of the same name on the hit 1950's show, Little Rascals.

Modern zydeco sound captures the essence of Afro-Caribbean rhythm and blues, soul, rock and country music blended with the old-time sound once heard by the Black French-Speaking Creoles of southern Louisiana utilizing the accordian, washboard and drums.

With 15 LPs to his credit, his latest work is "Jackpot" which was released in 1995 on his own label, Tomorrow Recordings.

Buckwheat Zydeco has toured extensively throughout his career bringing the sweet Cajun sounds worldwide, perfoming in major festivals such as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. His television appearances include Dave Letterman, MTV and The Today Show, and he has opened for internationally known artists such as Eric Clapton and U-2.

With no signs of slowing down, the 61 year-olds upcoming tour schedule includes more Canadian dates in July in Gravenhurst, Ontario at the Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest and in Quebec at the Quebec City International Summer Festival and the Tremblant International Blues Festival.

ROCK THE BELLS 2009 @ Molson Ampitheatre, Toronto - Sun Jul 4th!


Featuring Nas, Damian Marley, Common, Busta Rhymes, Rza and Gza, Big Boi, Slum Village and more!

Be the first to buy tickets to see Nas, Damian Marley, Common, Rza and Gza, Big Boi, Slum Village and more live in concert on Sunday July 5, 2009 at Molson Amphitheatre, 909 Lakeshore Blvd. W., Ontario Place, Toronto, ON

Showtime is 2:00pm

http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

Branford Marsalis and Dave Holland Quintet @ Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto - Fri Jul 3!


Toronto Jazz Festival Presents: Branford Marsalis and Dave Holland Quintet @ Nathan Phillips Square
Queen & Bay Streets, Toronto, ON
Fri, Jul 3, 2009 08:00 PM
Tickets: $40.00/TD Employees $34.00
Visit: http://www.ticketmaster.ca/

Monday, June 29, 2009

Melanie Fiona Free Concert @ The Mod Club, Toronto, ON - Thurs July 2nd!


Canada’s newest soul sensation, Melanie Fiona is doing a FREE concert at The Mod Club (722 College Street), Toronto, ON on Thursday July 2, 2009.

This is a free concert. It is a 19+ event and doors open at 7pm. Arrive early to guarantee admission

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Deborah Cox Delights Hometown Fans at Toronto's Pride Week Festivities


Last night, Canadian R&B Diva Deborah Cox returned to her hometown, Toronto, Ontario to perform as a special guest for Toronto's Pride Week celebrations on the TD Canada Trust Music stage located at Yonge and Wellesley Streets. She sang several of her popular hits including her most recent single, Beautiful U R, and the upbeat house version of her #1 smash hit, "Nobody's Supposed to be Here" from her Platinum-selling second album, One Wish, which dropped in 1998.

Cox also took time out to do a special tribute of "I'll Be There" to the late Michael Jackson, who suddenly passed away just two days earlier at the age of 50. In remembering Jackson, she said..."what a loss, the amazing King of Pop, you have no idea..I can't process that loss myself, because back in the day I could have sworn I was Ola Ray in Thriller. I was that girl."

First signed to Arista Records in 1995 by label executive Clive Davis, Cox has now released her latest album, The Promise, on her own independent label, Deco Recording Group. It is her first new studio album release in six years.

Celebrating Michael Jackson's Life Toronto Style!







Friday, June 26, 2009

The Thriller Is Gone--R.I.P. Michael Jackson - 1958-2009


It's hard to believe that the greatest entertainer to ever live is gone, and way too soon. Yes, it's true, Michael Jackson has left this earth just a couple of months shy of what would have been his 51st birthday. Words cannot explain how shocking and unexpected this is. It is a tremendous loss for the world, his family and his children. I am just glad that I can say that I was there when he came to Toronto for the Victory Tour back in 1984. It is probably one of the most profound moments of my life and a memory that I'll treasure forever. He will always be a music legend and his music will continue to live on. May he rest in peace.

More reaction to Michael's death:
a HUGE light has been put out but his music will carry on forever.
you always hear my kids singing ABC and I have a feeling their children will be singing a Jackson 5 & MJ song as well.

it would be a great feeling to leave a dent on this planet before you move on.
this Brother left a Crater.

Chris Nice
---------------------------------------------------------------
While Michael Jackson never really had a childhood he played a big
part in mine. Michael has been a part of my life from the beginning.
He was one of the first two albums I ever owned. I was two at the
time and I am not sure which came first, him or Sesame Street.

Some of my fondest memories of MJ involve my family; cousins, parents,
aunts and uncles partying during the holidays to his tunes. When my
Auntie Janet surprised me with the Thriller album and I was beyond
thrilled. I remember my Dad bringing back “Right On” magazines from
the States so that we could have posters. I also remember dragging my
Dad shopping for the perfect sequin socks.

My parents felt that my brother and myself were too young for concerts
but thankfully some of my Father’s co-workers “kidnapped” us for the
evening and took us to the show. It was one of the best nights of my
life.

My new motto is have fun, love hard and don’t sweat the small stuff.
Tomorrow is not promised.

Michael may you find peace and thank you.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
I agree 100% that he’ll be missed and he was such an influence for me too!
my first negotiation with my mum was to stay up late to watch Friday night
video so I could see beat it! I had to save up for 3 months to get his
t-shirt and I loved his thriller album more than life itself! I heard your
boogie song as part of last night scratch tribute at 7 pm and I was dancing
around like a crazy woman for an hour. Not good since I’ve got a brutal cold
so I was coughing like an old lady after!!

Julia
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
There's probably no one in the world who has not heard about his death,
but I personally I will miss him. My favourite MJ moment was when I living
in Saudi Arabia and my mom was holding me in her arms while dancing to
"Blame it on the Boogie" at an expat party.I didn't know the title at the
time because I was still fairly young, but I remember how happy my mom was
and seeing my brother bopping around to the beat with other kids and adults.
Even though we lived in a Western compound, it was the early 80s, so a lot
of music/TV shows/literature was still in Arabic (unless you brought it over from your home country). I don't really know how this was possible because I
was young, but MJ was one of the few artists that we were able to listen to
in English and he really shaped my early childhood. If I wasn't pregnant, I
would totally go to a club tonite and dance away to his music as he was
truly one of the greatest entertainers of our time. I just wanted to share
and hope you will have a great Friday. Remember to live in the moment
because tomorrow is never promised.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
I checked and yes it is a strange thing
Aliyah - 08/25/01
Left Eye - 04/25/02
James Brown - 12/25/06
MJ - 06/25/09

Jules
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
I believe the year was 1975 the Jackson Five came to Jamaica. I was at high school at KTHS (Kingston Technical High School). Hyacinth and I (and maybe someone else not sure) went to the Sheraton Hotel in New Kingston to see them. I am not too sure (nothing was sure for me at that age) how we got in the hotel but we went to the poolside where they were and got autographs (Hyacinth can confirm if we did get autographs or just talk to them, we could have been millionaires today if we had kept the autographs from that era!) we went back to school ecstatic and happy telling everyone what we did.

Next day I got a detention for a Spanish test I failed and asked the teacher if I could skip the detention and do it the next day as I had to go to Spanish Town and pick up an important mail for my grandmother at the post office, she said yes and off I went to see the Jackson Five vs. Kingston College in a game of netball.

Low and behold the next day the teacher came into the classroom and asked “Sandra Cole did you pick up that mail for your grandmother?” I said “yes miss” she said “so what is your picture doing on the front page of the Daily News!” I had no answer for that and got three consecutive days detention.

With all said and done although Michael wasn’t my favorite artist he was an icon an amazing person and an inspiration to some people, he will be missed.

I was telling Andy last night that Elvis, John Lennon and Bob Marley all died at a young age, therefore Michael is in very good company singing and dancing for them, he will be missed here on earth by many, may his soul rest in perfect peace.

Life is way too short and tomorrow, as a matter of fact the next second is not guaranteed to us, so cherish and adore the people you love tell them you love them but most of all be good and true to you.

Enjoy your weekend!

Sandra C-M

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

R&B Singer Case Serenades Newly-Engaged Couple in Toronto!


It's not every day that a young man gets to propose to his lady on stage with a huge R&B Singer ready to drop a hit from his 1999 platinum-selling album.

But, that was the case (no pun intended)last Friday night when New York-born, R&B Artist Case Woodard aka Case, made a special appearance to heat up the Soul Kitchen, one of Toronto's signature events dedicated to preserving classic soul music. The event took place at Level Nightclub in the city's entertainment district.

Case, known for his signature romantic tunes such as his #1 single, "Missing You" and "Faded Pictures" didn't emerge on stage until 2:00am performing for about 20 minutes. For one lucky couple, Steve and Charlene, the moment was priceless.
Equipped with a ring and feeling confident, Steve got down on one knee and asked Charlene to "step up to bat and be my wife." Wiping away the tears in her eyes Charlene said "YES" and gave him a big hug and kiss as Case took the mic to dedicate his popular wedding song, "Happily Ever After" to the couple. The new groom-to-be was ecstatic and couldn't wait to crack open a bottle of bubbly.

Case, whose 1996 debut solo release, "Touch Me Tease Me" from his self-titled album established him as a breakout artist, selling over 1,000,000 copies. The track, co-written by Mary J. Blige also featured vocals from Singer Foxy Brown and was one of the singles on "The Nutty Professor" soundtrack. Before his big break, he had co-written and sang background for some of R&B's elite, including Al B. Sure and Usher.

In 2002, Case accidentially shot himself in the throat while moving a cousin's registered handgun. Luckily, the accident left him without any vocal chord damage.

Case was originally signed to Russell Simmons Def Jam Records label, but he has since left and taken the independent route. He closed out the night with the first track "Lovely" from his recently-released album, The Rose Experience.

CHECK OUT CASE PERFORMING "LOVELY" from the album, The Rose Experience, LIVE IN TORONTO!

Kelly Rowland Performs Live @ Toronto's Pride Week Celebrations - Sat Jun 27 & Sun Jun 28th!

PRIDE TORONTO ANNOUNCES TWO SPECIAL PERFORMANCES BY KELLY ROWLAND AT PRIDE WEEK 2009!
Pride Toronto today announced the addition of Kelly Rowland for two special shows as part of Pride Week 2009.

Kelly Rowland, currently featured on international DJ superstar David Guetta's hit single "When Love Takes Over" joins Pride Toronto's stellar TD Canada Trust Wellesley Stage line-up on Sunday, June 28 at 7pm, and as a special presentation by Pride Toronto at Prism Toronto's 'Aqua' event, on Saturday, June 27 at 5pm at the beautiful Sunnyside Pavillion.

"This year is full of co-operative efforts that connect Pride Toronto to other organizations, companies, events, artists and people and we're happy to be enhancing our festival by presenting Kelly at Prism's 'Aqua' event and on the TD Canada Trust Wellesley Stage", says Pride Toronto's Arts & Entertainment Program Manager, Mary Zondanos.

"We are very excited to be working with Pride Toronto this year to bring Kelly Rowland to the festival and are looking forward to this new relationship" says Gairy Brown, Co-Producer of Prism.

"Securing Kelly Rowland at this late stage has been a real victory. This has been made possible by the recently announced federal grant that provides funding for enhancements to our entertainment program." says Pride Toronto's Executive Director, Tracey Sandilands.

Kelly Rowland was a founding member of Destiny's Child, the top-selling female group of all-time, and is a Grammy-winning solo artist in her own right. Since going solo in 2002, Rowland has collaborated with Nelly, Snoop Dogg, French singer Nâdiya, Italian singer Tiziano Ferro and Gym Class Heroes. Her debut solo album, "Simply Deep" (2003) charted Billboard's top 20, topped charts all over the world including the UK, Ireland, Hong King, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia and Canada totaling sales of over 2.5 million, and was certified gold by the RIAA.

Rowland has been busy hosting Bravo's "The Fashion Show" competition series, alongside Isaac Mizrahi and traveling the world with David Guetta. She's also creating a new charity called "I Heart My Girlfriend", which will serve as an interactive support system for teenage girls. Kelly is also the ambassador for MTV's Staying Alive Foundation, which aims to reduce discrimination against HIV and people living with HIV/AIDS.


KELLY ROWLAND at the TD Canada Trust Wellesley Stage Sunday, June 28 at 7pm - FREE!
KELLY ROWLAND at the Sunnyside Pavillion, 1755 Lakeshore Blvd.
as part of Prism's AQUA TORONTO, Saturday, June 27 at 5pm.
Tickets are $30 and are available at Priape Toronto at 416.586.9914 or priape.com/prismtoronto


Pride Toronto is the not-for-profit organization that hosts Pride Week, an annual festival held during the last week of June in downtown Toronto. Pride Toronto exists to celebrate the history, courage, diversity and future of Toronto's LGBTTIQQ2S communities (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, Questioning, Two-Spirited) and is one of the leading cultural events of its kind in the world. Toronto's Pride Week has been named the Best Festival in Canada by the Canadian Special Events Industry, is recognized as one of only Eight Signature Events in the city of Toronto, and is ranked as one of the TOP 50 festivals in Ontario by Festivals and Events Ontario. www.pridetoronto.com

Media Contact:
Grant Ramsay
Director of Publicity
FLIP Publicity and Promotions Inc.
720 Bathurst Street, Suite #403
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2R4
P: 416-533-7710 x 222
F: 416-533-7797
grant@flip-publicity.com

Check out our website
http://www.flip-publicity.com

http://www.myspace.com/flippublicity

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Idris Elba Live in Toronto @ Solarium! - Tues Jun 30!


TUESDAY JUNE 30TH, 2009
MAXAMUS ENTERTAINMENT

P R E S E N T S

"O B S E S S I O N" STARRING ACTOR:
I D R I S E L B A
(HBO's The Wire, Rock N Rolla, Obsessed & American Gangster)

VENUE: SOLARIUM (11 POLSON STREET)
DOORS OPEN: 10PMHOSTED BY: TAJ

MUSIC BY: DJ ROCK STAR & DJ LISSA MONET

ADMISSION: $30 ADVANCE TICKETS
STRICT STYLE CODE: SEMI-FORMAL
FOR BOTTLE SERVICE & RESERVATIONS CONTACT:
RSVP@MAXAMUSENT.COM

CLICK HERE TO VIEW
THE OFFICIAL OBSESSION EVITE
http://www.maxamusent.com/obsession/

TICKET LOCATIONS

BROADWAY FASHION
1160 MORNINGSIDE AVE
SCARBOROUGH
(416) 283-6999

BROADWAY FASHION
SCARBOROUGH TOWN CENTRE
(416) 296-0609

BROADWAY FASHION
SQUARE ONE MALL-MISSISSAUGA
(905) 848-4823

PLAY DE RECORD
357 YONGE ST-TORONTO
(416) 586-0380

SHINE SALON & BARBERSHOP
50 SUNNYVALE GATE UNIT #13
BRAMPTON
(905) 790-3031

Thursday, June 18, 2009

UMAC's 2009 Summer Showcase @ Tryst, Toronto - Fri June 19th!


Constantly gettin' our participACTION on, UMAC is hosting The 2009 Summer Showcase at Tryst this Friday, June 19, 2009 from 6-9pm to raise money for Sick Kids Hospital. You should get your participACTION on, too!

Food will be provided by our proud sponsor, Pizza Nova,
& there will be LIVE performances by: Rochester Jahvon Cory Lee Trish RG 2 Tha World King Reign Big tunes spun by the 2008 Stylus Award Female DJ Of The Year, DJ Mel Boogie!

Special guest appearance by 2009 Much Music Award nominee, Karl Wolf.

UMAC Presents The 2009 Summer Showcase
Tryst Nightclub 82 Peter Street (between King & Adelaide) Toronto, Ontario
Doors: 5pm Start: 6pm SHARP End: 9pm
Cost: Free, yet Pay What You Can
Donations are encouraged & acccepted for Sick Kids Hospital For More Info: marketing@umacunited.com

For info on the Urban Music Association of Canada, visit: http://www.umacunited.com/
Find us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/people/Thelonious-Monk/1062992562 Check out our MySpace page: http://www.myspace.com/umacunited Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/UMACUnited See ya there!

Sincerely, Carol A.
Special Co-ordinator, Communications Urban Music Association of Canada (UMAC)

Calypso Monarch Red Plastic Bag Wows the Crowd at the 6th Annual Barbados Charity Ball in Toronto


Last weekend, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre hosted the 6th Annual Barbados Charity Ball themed "Sunset Barbados" with an elaborate gathering of approximately 600 guests including many distinguished guests.

Popular Storyteller Itah Sadu MC'd the event while Chancellor of the University of the West Indies and UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for HIV/Aids to the Caribbean, Sir George Alleyne, served as the Keynote speaker.

His Excellency, E. Evelyn Greaves, High Commissioner of Barbados to Canada, Michael Mansoor, Executive Chairman, FirstCaribbean International, Leroy McClean, Consul General and Honorable Margarett Best, Minister of Health Promotion, Government of Ontario were all in attendance. Eugene Melnyk, Owner and Chairman of Trimel Investments and the Ottawa Senators, was the Presenting Sponsor for this year's event, but was unable to attend due to a last minute trip to Florida.

Performances during dinner were provided by Musicians Arturo Tappin, Eddie Bullen, his teenage son Quincy Bullen and Vocalist Tamara Marshall. Prince Cave and the All Stars provided musical entertainment for the dance after dinner, while special guest Red Plastic Bag, an eight time Calypso Monarch, got the audience dancing on their feet to some popular calypso tunes.

The event also included a live auction with artwork and jewellery auctioned off for thousands of dollars and a special presentation of scholarships to five worthy Toronto recipients: Mark Brathwaite, pursuing law school this fall; Jefferson Broomes, aspiring to own his own business in day and pursuing studies in the automative and business sector; Sherise Innis-Hall, currently studying Business Marketing at Seneca College and working towards her Bachelors of Business Degree and Masters of Business Administration; Chanele Jordan, an Honour student planning to attend University this fall; and Leo Robinson, who has earned a BSc in Mathematics and Physics with Honours from University of the West Indies and currently studying Aerospace Engineering at Ryerson University.

Dr. Juliet M. Daniel, an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario received the Errol Walton Barrow award which recognizes oustanding and positive role models who impact youth. Daniel also received a crystal trophy and a one-week vacation for two at a Barbados' luxury resort courtesy of Almond Resorts.

Unsung Hero awards were given to Diana Evelyn who continuously provides clothing for people in need and Deborah Ann DeSouza, a Manager for Worldwide Premium Services and Maple Leaf Lounge Toronto. DeSouza's team was instrumental in co-ordinating the return of the family of a woman from Ottawa, Ontario who was robbed and subquently died while on vacation in Barbados in March.

A moment of silence before dinner recognized former President of the Barbados Charity Ball, John A. Rollock, an Information Technology executive in the Ontario Government and private sector who passed away earlier this year.

The Barbados Ball Canada Aid provides financial assistance to charitable organizations that provide HIV/AIDS education and prevention programs and this year donated $10,000 to the University of West Indies HIV/AIDS Response Program (UWI HARP) to assist the widespread epidemic in Barbados.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Soul Kitchen featuring Case Live @ Level Nightclub, Toronto - Fri June 19!


ian andre espinet proudly presents
Soul Kitchen: A Personal Conversation:

featuring a LIVE PERFORMANCE by:
CA$E
performing songs from his repertoire which includes...
MISSING YOU • FADED PICTURES • THINK OF YOU
NOT YOUR FRIEND • TOUCH ME TEASE ME and of course
HAPPILY EVER AFTER...

with all the Soul Kitchen goodness you've come to expect from:

2009 Stylus Award winners

Jester & Kid Kut

Taking place inside the
LEVEL NIGHTCLUB - 102 Peter Street (at Adelaide) • Downtown Toronto

Style Code: Adult R&B: No Hats, runners or sports apparel • ID Required
Admission:$ 20

Montell Jordan Live @ Capitol Event Theatre, Toronto! - Tues, June 30th! - CANCELLED!


Update: June 23/09
We are disappointed to announce that the Montell Jordan concert that was scheduled for June 30th at the Capitol Event Theatre has been cancelled. The concert is cancelled because we did not meet the minimum quantity advance ticket sales. Those that have bought their tickets will get full refund by returning back to the place of purchase. Please let us know if you have any challenges in getting your complete refund at any ticket vendor and we will assist. Sorry for the disappointment but we had to have a minimum number of pre-sales a week prior to the event and we did not. Have a good week.

Regards,

George Fynn

Canada's Favourite DJ

416.816.0036

Stevie Wonder Live @ La Place des festivals, Montreal! - Tues June 30!


Opening Act: Dj Kobal
Stevie Wonder opening the Place des festivals with a concert inaugurating the 30th edition of the Festival? No, you're not dreaming! Already 45 years since the virtual human jukebox "Little Stevie Wonder" has begun flooding us with numerous hits, charming every public and sweeping all awards... There's already a palpable excitement in the air as we all eagerly await this first-ever visit to the Festival of this peerless icon of American music! There's absolutely no doubt that this exceptional event that promises to be a monumental public gathering will mark history!
June 30, 2009 at 9:30 PM
Admission: FREE
Visit: http://www.montrealjazzfest.com

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

The Harder They Come! - Special Screening on Sat June 27 & Advance Ticket Discount for the Stage Play!



There will be a special screening of The Harder They Come on Saturday, June 27, at 9:30 PM, at the Bloor Cinema, 506 Bloor Street West (at Bathurst). Tickets are only $5 and you can buy them at the door (assuming there are any left when you get there), by phone at either 416-872-1212 or 1-800-461-3333, or online right here, at ticketking.com

Just remember that regular service charges apply to phone and online orders... oh, and that this is general admission (no reserved seating) and that the film is rated "14A", meaning that piknies younger than 14 must be accompanied by an adult.


GET ADVANCE TICKETS FOR THE HARDER THEY COME ON STAGE FOR 25% OFF!

Heads up! This Saturday, June 13, we go on public sale with tickets for The Harder They Come, the first show of the new season... but you can get your tickets now, before everybody else, and save 25% off tickets in the top three price categories, too. Here's how.

THE HARDER THEY COME:
GET YOUR TICKETS BEFORE THE STAMPEDE AND GET THEM FOR LESS!

Yes, the cast members of the West End London hit musical are packing their bags for the trip west to Toronto and the North American premiere of The Harder They Come, with its first performance at the Canon Theatre on July 21. Tickets go on sale to the general public this Saturday, but - as the song says - you can get them if you really want right now for any performance... and, if you book into the first two weeks of the show - July 21 through August 2 - you can get them for 25%* off regular prices!


For all the secret details, plus a taste of the show and its music, visit http://www.mirvish.com/thtc/estage/ or if you're really in a hurry, just call either 416-872-1212 or 1-800-461-3333 or go online to https://web.ticketking.com/TK/seatSelect.asp and use the promotional code IVAN. But do it now; the offer ends at midnight, Saturday, June 13!

*Discount offer is available on performances from July 21 to August 2 only. 25% discount applies to tickets in top three price categories only, does not apply to rear or side mezzanine seating. Tickets must be booked by 11:59 PM June 12. Regular service charges apply to phone and internet orders. All prices are in Canadian dollars and include GST. Seating is subject to availability. Offer may be terminated at any time. Offer not applicable on previously purchased tickets and may not not be combined with any other offer. All ticket sales are final; no refunds or exchanges.

The Harder they Come
http://www.mirvish.com/thtc/estage/

Thurs June 25 - Bow Wow Live @ The Kool Haus, Toronto, ON



Bow Wow returns to Toronto to perform at The Kool Haus on Thursday June 25, 2009. Catch Bow Weezy as he performs his hit singles from the past decade, as well as music from his latest album, New Jack City, pt. II. Famous, J. Diggz, C Squeezy, P. Reign, and Big Lean are also on the bill to rock the house. The concert will be hosted by none other than Flow 93.5’s Devo Brown. Music will be provided by 2009 DJ Stylus Award winner for Female DJ Of The Year, Lissa Monet, and 2009 DJ Stylus Award winner for Toronto DJ Of The Year, IllKidz

Tickets are on sale now for $25. Tickets are available through:

Ticketmaster.ca or Charge by phone (416-870-8000)

Play De Record Downtown (416-586-0380)

Livestock Toronto (416-360-5483)

Broadway Fashion Morningside (416-283-6999)

Broadway Fashion Scarborough Town Centre (416-296-0609)

Broadway Fashion Square One Shopping Centre (905-848-4823)

Doors open at 7pm. This is a 19+ event. For more information on the event, booth or VIP tickets, contact Glamour Ent. At 647-885-6692

Please see the flyer attached! Here is a video drop from Bow Wow talking about the concert, along with the opening acts on the bill!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-B92K-Iq6I