May 14, 2009

Charlotte Shout Culinary Experience Suspended 2009

Due to the extraordinary economic conditions, Charlotte Center City Partners, Compass Group, NA and Johnson & Wales University, Charlotte made the joint decision to suspend the production of the Charlotte Shout Culinary Arts Experience 2009.

“This would have been our 8th year of the Charlotte Shout Culinary Arts Experience,” said Robert Krumbine, Executive Director of Charlotte ArtsFest, Inc, and Executive Producer of the event. “However, in this difficult climate, we believe it will be extremely difficult to raise the amount of money we need to produce the high caliber event we all expect.”

This event brings in top chefs from around the region, the country and the world and has very high quality production with a large stage, a large screen on stage, cameras and three cooking schools. This event is produced through sponsorship dollars and in-kind sponsorships. The total cost is approximately $500,000 per year.

The Memphis Barbecue Network-sanctioned Blues, Brews and BBQ 2009 will be back September 11 and 12, 2009, with a move slightly south on Tryon Street. This nationally recognized BBQ competition features more than 80 teams, regional and national blues acts and a variety of other entertainment and activities.

“We do not anticipate the suspension of any other events this summer or Fall, says Krumbine. “The Green Market, Red, White and Boom 2009, May 20th Observance, Taste of Charlotte, Presbyterian Bicycle Criterium, a new event in South End for Fall and First Night Charlotte, just to name a few, are absolutely on.”

The decision on whether to bring back Charlotte Shout Culinary Arts Experience will be made by all three partners next year, based on the changing economic conditions.

Categories: Arts & Entertainment, Charlotte Center City Partners, Lifestyle