The inaugural Scout Art Fair, part of Baltimore’s revitalized Artscape and curated by Derrick Adams and Teri Henderson, showcases over 40 local artists in a landmark cultural moment that affirms the city’s arrival as a major force in the contemporary art world.
Category: ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Posted inENTERTAINMENT
Key moments from the second week of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ sex trafficking trial
In the second week of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial, witnesses—including celebrities like rapper Kid Cudi, former staff, and associates—testified about alleged abuse, threats and coercion, as prosecutors aim to prove he used his businesses to run a racketeering operation.
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Acclaimed playwright Tarell Alvin McCraney tackles issue of gay marriage amid recent attacks on LGBTQ rights
Playwright Tarell Alvin McCraney’s new work “We Are Gathered” explores same-sex marriage and Black queer love amid renewed political threats to LGBTQ rights following the 47th president’s return to the White House. Premiering during WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C., the play celebrates love and resilience while underscoring the urgency of preserving hard-won freedoms in a shifting political climate.
Posted inBaltimore News
Patrons experience last Preakness prior to Pimlico renovation
Thousands gathered in Baltimore for the historic 150th Preakness Stakes, marking the final race at Pimlico Race Course before major renovations begin. While attendees enjoyed the race and cultural festivities, some expressed frustration with event organization despite the excitement and tradition surrounding the event.
Posted inBaltimore News
“To Baltimore With Love”: Call for artists – $500 honorarium for selected creators
“To Baltimore With Love,” a new exhibition curated by Baltimore Unity Hall and The Mary Ann Connelly Fund in Support of Artists, invites local creators to celebrate the city’s spirit through art. Submissions are open until June 9, 2025, with selected artists receiving a $500 honorarium.
Posted inENTERTAINMENT
Cassie testimony against Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs ends after she spent days describing abuse
R&B singer Cassie testified in court on May 13 that music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs abused and sexually exploited her for years, describing coerced participation in violent, drug-fueled sex acts known as “freak offs” and physical assaults during their relationship.
Posted inENTERTAINMENT
Smokey Robinson’s lawyer says rape allegations against him are ‘vile’ and ‘false’
Smokey Robinson has denied allegations of rape and sexual assault made by four former housekeepers in a $50 million lawsuit, with his lawyer calling the claims “vile” and “false” and accusing the plaintiffs of attempting to extort money from the 85-year-old music legend.
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Comedy east of the Anacostia is no laughing matter
Comedians and artists living east of the Anacostia River face major barriers to performing due to a lack of venues, infrastructure and investment, despite clear community interest in comedy and the arts. Performers like Anthony Oakes and Haywood Turnipseed Jr. are building spaces where they can, but advocates say Wards 7 and 8 need more support to truly thrive as cultural hubs.
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Jazzy Summer Nights opens 25th and final season at Hopkins Plaza
More than 1,000 people pack Hopkins Plaza on May 1 for the kickoff of the 25th and final season of Jazzy Summer Nights, a beloved Baltimore tradition since 2000. With high-energy DJ sets, live percussion and a vibrant, joyful crowd, the opening night celebrates the legacy of music, community and culture in the heart of the city.
Posted inENTERTAINMENT
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs trial to delve into the seediest side of rap’s ‘bad boy’
Sean “Diddy” Combs faces a federal trial beginning May 5 on charges including sex trafficking and racketeering, with prosecutors alleging he used his fame and businesses to abuse women over decades, while his defense argues the encounters were consensual.
Posted inArts & Culture
Inside the Met Gala: Under a petal-filled sky, guests honor Black style, hail a ‘monumental night’
By Jocelyn Noveck “Well, it took a minute,” said Spike Lee, surveying the glittering Met Gala crowd during cocktail hour through bright orange glasses that matched his New York Knicks cap. “But we’re here now, that’s the most important thing.” Lee was referring to the fact that for the very first time, the Met Gala […]
Posted inWord In Black
Hoodoo vs. Holy Ghost: The ‘Sinners’ controversy
The film “Sinners” has become a box office hit while igniting debate over whether its portrayal of Hoodoo and evil in the Jim Crow South is anti-Christian or a deeper cultural and spiritual exploration. While some critics call it demonic, many argue it respectfully presents African traditions and challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about faith, race and history.