Carolina Ballet’s Carmen Suite at Martin Marietta Center (World Premiere)
Two bold new works—Carmen Suite and Book of Esther—in one unforgettable program.
Shannon
February 02, 2026
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Carolina Ballet is bringing the drama (the elegant kind) with Carmen Suite, a bold world premiere reimagined by Resident Choreographer Amy Hall Garner, set to Bizet’s iconic score. The program also features Book of Esther, a striking new work by Artistic Director Zalman Raffael, inspired by a collaboration with the North Carolina Museum of Art. Catch this double-feature of courage, identity, and seriously powerful storytelling Feb. 5–22.
Want to see showtimes and grab seats before they disappear? Check the full schedule and tickets here.
Not sponsored by the ballet… we’re just helplessly drawn to a good curtain call. 💃 (Just so you know: Sponsored content in our newsletter is always marked with “*”).
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The 919 Deal Drop:
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Raleigh Overtime:
🍴 FOODIE FIND: Peregrine’s A Southern Thing is a warm, comforting dish featuring green apple, crunchy streusel, nutty brown butter, and a hint of ginger.
🐾 FOR ADOPTION: CINDERELLA | DOG | 2 MONTHS | FEMALE
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📝 LOCAL CLASS: Crochet Workshop & Dessert Sampling at The Cookie People on February 5 at 6PM.
Cookies & Crochet is a hands-on workshop featuring crochet instruction with lifelong artist Suzy Hasanin, paired with delicious desserts and a relaxed, creative atmosphere. Sign up here →
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🌳 Golden Years Gatherings
Handpicked social, cultural, and community events especially for Raleigh’s older adults.
👋 Event of the day: Crafted Connections @ Morrisville Senior Center | February 6 | 1PM
A monthly meetup for creative minds to enjoy hands-on arts and crafts in a relaxed, social setting, with all materials provided and no experience needed. Get details here →
💲 Senior Discount of the Day: Senior Discount of the Day: KFC | 10% Off Senior Discount
KFC gives seniors 10% off or a free small drink with any meal purchase.
Local Vocals:
🎸 This Week: Country Music Night
Slim’s is serving up high-energy, old-school country favorites with Nolan Reid and The Regulators for a boot-scootin’ live show.* | Slim's Dive Bar | February 7, 8PM
🎤 Plan Ahead: Brandon Lake | Rock
Brandon Lake is an American Christian music singer-songwriter and worship leader known for his passionate vocals, contemporary worship anthems, and heartfelt, faith-driven lyrics. | Lenovo Center | March 22, 7PM | Get tickets here →
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Let’s Get Laughing:
🎤 This Week: Corey B at Goodnights Comedy Club | February 5-7 | Corey Bonalewicz, aka COREY B, is a stand-up comedian known for his sharp observational humor, relatable storytelling, and energetic crowd work. Get tickets here →
😂 Plan Ahead: Mark Normand at Goodnights Comedy Club | May 1-2 | Mark Normand is an American stand-up comedian known for his rapid-fire delivery, sharp observational jokes, and clever wordplay that have made him a standout on podcasts, late-night TV, and stand-up specials. Get tickets here →
Find Friends in Raleigh:
Curated social events without an emphasis on alcohol or romance:
👋 Bridgerton Tea @ Northeast Regional Library | February 8 | 1PM
An afternoon of tea, trivia, and crafts celebrates the release of a new season of Bridgerton. Get details here →
🤝 Super Bowl Chili Cookoff Fundraiser @ Clouds Brewing Taproom | February 8 | 5PM
Attendees can taste and vote on 15 chilis prepared by Raleigh Rugby chefs at Clouds Taproom before the game, with tickets including samples of every chili and one vote, and proceeds benefiting women’s rugby. Get details here →
Daily Planet Café is right inside the science museum, but it’s not just for kids or tourists. The food’s fresh, local, and surprisingly good...think coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and craft beer. It’s a quiet spot to chill before or after exploring downtown.
—Belle, a longtime reader
Oak City Job Openings:
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💼 RALEIGH JOB: Harris Teeter is seeking a Part Time Floral Clerk.
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