Check out Cicely Tyson films, see Eddie Baccus live on FB & more

GCUFF's “Black History Matters” is a series of free films, virtual panel discussions and a Game Night.

Greater Cleveland Urban Film Fest (GCUFF) Black History Month Film Series - (Throughout February)

The Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival (GCUFF) presents “Black History Matters,” a series of FREE films, virtual panel discussions and a Game Night during the month of February, in recognition of Black History Month.  Scheduled films include the documentary “Women of Troy,” highlighting the historic and groundbreaking USC women’s basketball team of the 1980s; “Leo’s Legacy,” offering an in-depth look at the famed nightclub of Cleveland’s yesteryear, Leo’s Casino; and “The Czar of Black Hollywood,” a documentary on the life of filmmaker Oscar Micheaux.

Cicely Tyson (r.) and Viola Davis appeared in ABC’s “How to Get Away With Murder.” (Photo credit: Ali Goldstein, ABC)

Where to Stream Classic Cicely Tyson Films

The world lost a cinematic powerhouse in veteran Emmy-winning actress Cicely Tyson, who died last week at the age of 96.  The New York Times’ Jennifer Vineyard takes a look at eight of Tyson’s performances over the span of her 63-year career.  It goes without saying that her entire body of work consists of nothing but outstanding performances. 

Karamu House presents Free Streaming of ‘The Impact of ‘Shuffle Along’ - (Throughout February)

In honor of Black History Month, Karamu House and The Musical Theater Project serve as co-hosts of a documentary entitled “The Impact of Shuffle Along,” examining the history of this groundbreaking 1921 musical – the first of its kind to be written and produced by African Americans.  Shuffle Along brought the Harlem Renaissance to the stage and initiated the integration of theaters in New York City and across the country. The documentary will stream for free for the entire month of February. Written and narrated by Bill Rudman, the documentary features nearly 20 songs, including the hugely popular hit “I’m Just Wild About Harry.”  Registration required.  Be sure to browse the Karamu House website for other free offerings during February.

 

The Elegant Ice Creations Drive Thru Ice Sculpture Garden in Broadview Heights will be open February 5-7 and 26-28.

Elegant Ice Creations Drive Thru Ice Sculpture Garden - February 5-7 and 26-28

The Drive Thru Ice Sculpture Garden created by Elegant Ice Creations, 4001 Towpath Road in Broadview Heights, features more than 30 hand-carved ice sculptures incorporating 30,000+ pounds of clear ice.  This is a drive-thru event. No busses or larger vans permitted.  There will be no access to public restrooms, so plan accordingly.  Reservations are available in hour blocks from 5PM – 10PM. $27.50 per carload.

 Eddie Baccus (Keys); Chris Anderson (Trombone) and Elijah Gilmore (Drums/Percussion)

L-R: Eddie Baccus (Keys); Chris Anderson (Trombone) and Elijah Gilmore (Drums/Percussion) 

Tuning in Jazz Session - February 11 on Facebook Live

As part of their Tuning In series, Local 4 Music Fund presents a free jazz performance by Eddie Baccus (Keys); Chris Anderson (Trombone) and Elijah Gilmore (Drums/Percussion) Thursday, February 11 at 7PM on Facebook Live.  The Local 4 Music Fund is celebrating its 47th year and offers live performances and music education programming to NE Ohio residents, free of charge.

• • •• • •

Is there an upcoming event you’d like included in this column? Please send the details, along with a high-resolution photo/graphic, to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. at least two weeks prior to the event.