Last November, we featured an interview with Joe Hunsaker, event manager for Blumenthal Performing Arts, about the roll-out of the new “Nerdy Night Out” series. Well, the world has witnessed extraordinary change since then, but one thing remains true: NERDS RULE. And, they’re probably going to end up saving our lives. 

But until that day comes, the Queen City needs to blow off steam. Hence, Blumenthal Performing Arts, WFAE & Charlotte Is Creative are producing a re-envisioned “Nerdy Night In” series, consisting of nerd-tastic virtual events designed for learning, laughing and (if you’re so inclined) getting a little liquored up. 

The first three events below are free (with the option to donate), and registration is required.

Pictured: Hannah Hasan and Dr. Rebecca Heiss

Ladies Rock the Vote
Oct. 22 – 7:00 PM

The lead-off Nerdy Night Out event is a celebration of 100 years of women’s suffrage built on stories of badass women who have made a difference in politics and government. Hosted by WFAE’s Joni Deutsch, the evening will present a lineup of female-identifying performers (including Lauren Ansley, Tara Brown, Tiffany Bryant-Jackson, Hannah Hasan, Grace Hauth, Jenny Kabool and Gabby Moore) who will share the stories of the women history forgot – or erased.

The Biology of Spooky
Oct. 29 – 7:00 PM

Celebrate Halloween as only the nerds could – by exploring with a renowned biologist who specializes in the study of fear. Rebecca Heiss, PhD, will offer presentations on what’s going on inside us when we’re scared and share her expertise on everyone’s favorite Halloween bird: the crow.

Queen City improv team Now Are The Foxes will follow with an improv piece inspired by Dr. Heiss’ lecture. Plus, Blumenthal Ghost Tour Guide Kitty Janvrin will shiver spines with local stories curated by Charlotte’s own #SpookyCLT. Attendees will wash it all down with a virtual tour of Divine Barrel Brewing and a tasting of their new fall release, Groove Merchant,  available for pre-purchase and curbside pickup prior to the show. 

RenFest-inspired “Nerdy Night In”
Nov. 12 – Time TBD

“Prepareth thyself” for an online event designed to honor the beloved Carolina Renaissance Festival (which, to the great horror of nerds, geeks and cosplayers across the QC, was canceled for 2020). That show will feature some of RenFest’s favorite players serving up a mammoth turkey leg’s worth of nerdy Renaissance-themed fun.

Step Out with Nerdy Night IN

INSTAGRAM | Online Event Calendar

Charlotte Is Creative, the publisher of The Biscuit, is a creative partner in the Nerdy Night Out series.