HAMLET — Uptown funked up the stage at Cole Auditorium Tuesday evening with a tribute to Motown featuring a set list that had the audience dancing.
The venue was backed with patrons as the singing trio — backed by a five-piece band that included a two-man horn section — kicked off the show with Earth, Wind and Fire’s “September.”
Other artists covered during the concert included Bill Withers, Al Green, Stevie Wonder, Jackie Wilson, Marvin Gaye, the Temptations and the Jackson 5. One audience member was even brought on stage for a performance of Prince’s “Kiss,” before the show closed with “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars.
There is still one concert left for this season: the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra on June 17.
All tickets for that show are $5 and must be purchased at the box office, not online. The show is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.
This season's Performing Arts Series, sponsored by the Richmond County Tourism Development Authority, included two bands (Diamond Rio and Rumors, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band) and two musicals (an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and one based on “The Magic School Bus.”
While not part of the series, the U.S. Air Force Heritage Brass band also gave a free performance at the Cole.
Auditorium Director Joey Bennett said the schedule for next season is expected to be released during the summer.
See more photos from the Uptown show at the RO's Facebook page and visitrichmondcounty.com.
NOTE: This story has been updated to correct a name. 3:57 p.m. 4-16-25
