December 31 2011 at 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Location: South Tryon & Levine Avenue of the Arts

Grab the kids and ring in the New Year!

First Night Kids is perfect for the entire family, and kicks off First Night Charlotte. Kids of all ages can enjoy the music, dance, theater, history, science and much more. First Night Kids is scheduled between 12 PM and 5 PM with events and performances at NASCAR Hall of Fame, Outdoor terrace of the Charlotte Convention Center, The Green, Bechtler Museum, Mint Museum, and the main stage at Levine Avenue of the Arts.

FIRST NIGHT KIDS EVENT SCHEDULE

12-12:30pm
Fireman Jim: NASCAR Hall of Fame: High Octane Theatre
Fireman Jim’s Safety Show delivers memorable safety practices that are proven to save lives. Utilizing a multi-sensory approach with original music, safety demonstrations, drills, games and stories his audience is engaged in the experience. Fireman Jim incorporates a rhyme, rhythm or song into each lesson that encourages children to participate in the fun.

Chris Thompson & The Cultural Ensemble: The Green Lower Tier: Dance Tent
Dance that includes W African, lyrical, hip hop, tap to live drums. Audience participation. They will have audience members play drums with the group!

Thistledown Tinkers: Bechtler Lobby
Thistledown Tinkers is a traditional Celtic duo that plays high-energy, rowdy Scottish and Irish folk music. They perform all around the Southeast, and we recently featured in a BBC documentary on Celtic music in the U.S. These guys always provide a boot-stompin', kilt-swingin' good time!

12-12:45pm
Percussion Petting Zoo: The Green: Upper Tier
Exciting, Educational, and Entertaining Interactive percussion party for Adults & Children of all AGES!

12-4:00pm
Caricatures by Lena: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
Lena is the 1st lady of the Quick-Sketch and always DRAWS a crowd around her! Within 5 minutes or less, she can capture your likeness in a flattering yet humorous 11x14 caricature, solo or in groups!

4 Face Painters: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent

Cara Zara- Hoop: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
Cara Zara Hula-Hoop Dancer performs at events, festivals and parties throughout the Carolinas and specializes in entertainment for families and children. She also teaches the art and fitness of hooping with her afterschool enrichment program at private & public schools in Charlotte.

Caroline Calouche-Aerial: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
In 2006, Caroline Calouche began her explorations of blending contemporary dance with aerial dance in harness and fabric. The company's reputation for providing innovative, entertaining and edgy work was pushed to another level with the aerial work. With the increase of performances and touring, CC&Co. continues to connect to their home community along with the communities that they visit with their outreach programs in all age, ethnic and social groups.

The Sidewalk Juggler: MLK Street & Lower Plaza Strolling Performers
Street Performing Juggler with Advanced Technical skills in Balls, Clubs, Knives and Fire. And just got a new set of Advanced L.E.D Spheres to up the sky and your mind!

The Magic of Caleb Sigmon: MLK Street & Lower Plaza Strolling Performers
You no longer are watching a magic show; You are witnessing an escape from reality, in the hands of a truly professional entertainer. He makes the impossible possible, and will defy expectations. That is what he does for a living.

The Cloers: Bechtler Museum Lobby
The Cloers, a Charlotte area acoustic duo known for their pensive lyrics and well-crafted songs, are recipients of a Regional Artist Project Grant from the Arts & Science Council (ASC) and were named Best Singer-Songwriter by the Charlotte Music Awards.

Ronald Shoe: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
Come check out Ronald McDonald's big red shoe! Take your picture in front of Ronald's shoe and say hi to him!

McDonald's Apple Dippers: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
McDonald's will be sampling their yummy apple dippers!

Tom Phlegar- Strolling Banjo: MLK Street & Lower Plaza Strolling Performers
Strolling banjo player, Tom Phlegar can play all types of music from bluegrass to christmas songs.

Blue Creations Balloon Artist: MLK Street & Lower Plaza Strolling Performers
Creates various balloon sculptures for families and kids.

CBS Activations- Red Carpet Photo & Mural: Mint Museum Plaza

12-4:30pm
Thistledown Tinkers: Bechtler Lobby
Thistledown Tinkers is a traditional Celtic duo that plays high-energy, rowdy Scottish and Irish folk music.  They perform all around the Southeast, and we recently featured in a BBC documentary on Celtic music in the U.S.  These guys always provide a boot-stompin', kilt-swingin' good time!

Crown Town: NASCAR Hall of Fame Great Hall
Decorate a crown for the midnight countdown!

Dana & Susan Robinson: NASCAR Hall of Fame Great Hall
Dana and Susan Robinson are two guitar-playing, banjo-frailing, fiddle-sawing, and harmony-singing interpreters of the American experience. Their unique blend of contemporary songwriting and traditional Appalachian music bring to their performances a deep understanding of Americas musical heritage.

Play Play: Wells Fargo Atrium
PlayPlay! is the first threatre in the US to focus solely on the international movement of theatre for the very young. Using stimulating sights and sounds, PlayPlay! engages an audience of little ones (ages birth to 3) and their loved ones. "Uh-Oh!" was PlayPlay!'s premier production back in 2010 and we are excited to bring it back again for First Night Charlotte.

Percussion Petting Zoo: The Green: Upper Tier
Exciting, Educational, and Entertaining Interactive percussion party for Adults & Children of all AGES!

12-5:00pm and 8-11:00pm
WBT Ice Rink! FREE skate rental with First Night wristband!

12:15-12:45pm
Tarradiddle Players: Mint Museum Theatre
This four-person troupe from the Children's Theatre of Charlotte travels from Virginia to South Carolina performing in schools, community centers and towns big and small for audiences who might otherwise never see a live play. Tarradiddle Players has performed for over one million children during its 39 years!

Kay Shade Puppets Convention Center Stage- MLK Street: Play Play! Tent

12:15-1:00pm
Dynamo:The Green: Middle Tier-Kids Performance Stage

12:30-1:00pm
Fettucini Brothers: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street- "Big Top" Fettucini Variety Show
The Fettucini Brothers, Alfredo and Alfresco perform a wacky and silly mix of comedy, juggling and variety entertainment that is fun for everyone. Lots of comedy, slapstick and audience participation are a big part of every Fettucini show. Come early, gat a good seat and you might just end up on stage.

Caroline Calouche- Aerial: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
In 2006, Caroline Calouche began her explorations of blending contemporary dance with aerial dance in harness and fabric. The company's reputation for providing innovative, entertaining and edgy work was pushed to another level with the aerial work. With the increase of performances and touring, CC&Co. continues to connect to their home community along with the communities that they visit with their outreach programs in all age, ethnic and social groups.

The Cloers: Bechtler Museum Lobby
The Cloers, a Charlotte area acoustic duo known for their pensive lyrics and well-crafted songs, are recipients of a Regional Artist Project Grant from the Arts & Science Council (ASC) and were named Best Singer-Songwriter by the Charlotte Music Awards.

12:45-1:15pm
Ronald Show: NASCAR Hall of Fame: High Octane Theatre
A community show featuring magic, juggling and Ronald’s favorite ideas about staying active, being a good friend and giving back to the community. There will be music, audience participation and fun for every member of the family.

Xtreme Jaguars The Green: Lower Tier- Dance Tent
Xtreme Jaquars is a co-ed jump rope performance team located in Charlotte. Jumpers will demonstrate a variety of rope skills which include single rope, acrobatics & double dutch. You will be WOWED by the fancy footwork of Xtreme Jaquars. A MUST SEE PERFORMANCE.

1-1:30pm
Magic by Glen: Convention Center Stage- MLK Street- "Big Top" Fettucini Variety Show

Dynamo:The Green: Middle Tier-Kids Performance Stage

The Story Ship: Mint Museum Atrium
Extraordinary theatrical children's show with interactive animation, comedy theater, magic, puppets and music. A live actor and the audience interact with puppets and animated characters projected on a large screen. "The Wand Of Dreams" is a magical mystery. The Worlds most powerful magic wand has been stolen and it is up to the audience and Fairy Godfather to get it back.

Thistledown Tinkers: Bechtler Lobby
Thistledown Tinkers is a traditional Celtic duo that plays high-energy, rowdy Scottish and Irish folk music. They perform all around the Southeast, and we recently featured in a BBC documentary on Celtic music in the U.S. These guys always provide a boot-stompin', kilt-swingin' good time!

1-2:00pm
PlayPlay! Theatre: Convention Center Stage- MLK Street: PlayPlay! Tent
PlayPlay! is the first theatre in the U.S. to focus solely on the international movement of theatre for the very young. Using stimulating sights and sounds, PlayPlay! engages an audience of little ones (ages birth to 3) and their loved ones. "Uh-Oh!" was PlayPlay!'s premier production back in 2010 and we are excited to bring it back again for First Night Charlotte.

1-4:00pm
Kids Dance Party- Jami Masters & Drex: Main Stage @ Levine Avenue of the Arts

1:15-2:00pm
Percussion Petting Zoo: The Green: Upper Tier
Exciting, Educational, and Entertaining Interactive percussion party for Adults & Children of all AGES!

Sweetbriar Jam: The Green: Middle Tier Kids Performance Stage
Progressive/Traditional Bluegrass band ingredients: Sawyer Whitman 17 yrs. old; Kaitlyn Caldwell 15 yrs. old; Dalton Caldwell 15 yrs. old; Nicholas Seymour 15 yrs. old and Sarah Seymour 12 yrs. old. The roots of this band started in 2005 with the guys (8, 9, 11 yrs. old) . In 2007, they added the girls and the band jelled into a new treat, “Sweetbriar Jam”. Presently, this young and popular bluegrass band makes its way across many stages including opening up for such well acclaimed groups as Doyle Lawson/Quicksilver, The James King Band and the Charlotte Symphony. CD’s include “Sweetbriar Jam” (2008); “In This Old Home Town of Mine” (2009) and “Briar Mountain” (2011).

1:30-2:00pm
Fireman Jim: NASCAR Hall of Fame: High Octane Theatre
Fireman Jim’s Safety Show delivers memorable safety practices that are proven to save lives. Utilizing a multi-sensory approach with original music, safety demonstrations, drills, games and stories his audience is engaged in the experience. Fireman Jim incorporates a rhyme, rhythm or song into each lesson that encourages children to participate in the fun.

Strength & Elegance: Convention Center Stage- MLK Street- "Big Top" Fettucini Variety Show
Strength and Elegance is a Cirque Du Soleil inspired duo with acts consisting of partner acrobatics, hoop dance, pole art, and aerial acrobatics.

Caroline Calouche- Aerial: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
In 2006, Caroline Calouche began her explorations of blending contemporary dance with aerial dance in harness and fabric. The company's reputation for providing innovative, entertaining and edgy work was pushed to another level with the aerial work. With the increase of performances and touring, CC&Co. continues to connect to their home community along with the communities that they visit with their outreach programs in all age, ethnic and social groups.

Hung GAR Academy: The Green: Lower Tier
the Hung Gar Kung Fu Academy will perform traditional Chinese Lion Dance and Kung Fu, which features exotic weapons forms and exciting two person sets. the lion dance is used in all important celabrations in the chinese culture. the lion is known as the King of the Jungle, so if anything evil or bad is in the room when the lions come running in the evil leaves!! the loud drum and qong/ cymbals wakes the lion up and makes the lion want to dance. the chinese lion is always operated by two students, one under the head and one under the tail. lions come in all different bright colors and are made with paper mache over a bamboo frame.

The Cloers: Bechtler Museum Lobby
The Cloers, a Charlotte area acoustic duo known for their pensive lyrics and well-crafted songs, are recipients of a Regional Artist Project Grant from the Arts & Science Council (ASC) and were named Best Singer-Songwriter by the Charlotte Music Awards.

1:45-2:15pm
Tarradiddle Players: Mint Museum Theatre
This four-person troupe from the Children's Theatre of Charlotte travels from Virginia to South Carolina performing in schools, community centers and towns big and small for audiences who might otherwise never see a live play. Tarradiddle Players has performed for over one million children during its 39 years!

2-2:30pm
Hardin Minor: Convention Center Stage- MLK Street- "Big Top" Fettucini Variety Show

Thistledown Tinkers: Bechtler Lobby
Thistledown Tinkers is a traditional Celtic duo that plays high-energy, rowdy Scottish and Irish folk music. They perform all around the Southeast, and we recently featured in a BBC documentary on Celtic music in the U.S. These guys always provide a boot-stompin', kilt-swingin' good time!

2:15-2:45pm
Ronald Show: NASCAR Hall of Fame: High Octane Theatre
A community show featuring magic, juggling and Ronald’s favorite ideas about staying active, being a good friend and giving back to the community. There will be music, audience participation and fun for every member of the family.

Chris Thompson & The Cultural Ensemble: The Green: Lower Tier
Dance that includes W african, lyrical, hip hop and tap to live drums. Audience participation is encouraged as you are invited to play drums with the group!

Kay Shade Puppets Convention Center Stage- MLK Street: Play Play! Tent

2:15-3pm
Dynamo:The Green: Middle Tier-Kids Performance Stage

2:30-3:00pm
Fettucini Brothers: Convention Center Stage- MLK Street- "Big Top" Fettucini Variety Show
The Fettucini Brothers, Alfredo and Alfresco perform a wacky and silly mix of comedy, juggling and variety entertainment that is fun for everyone. Lots of comedy, slapstick and audience participation are a big part of every Fettucini show. Come early, gat a good seat and you might just end up on stage.

Dynamo: The Green: Middle Tier Kids Performance Stage

The Story Ship: Mint Museum Atrium
Extraordinary theatrical children's show with interactive animation, comedy theater, magic, puppets and music. A live actor and the audience interact with puppets and animated characters projected on a large screen. "The Wand Of Dreams" is a magical mystery. The Worlds most powerful magic wand has been stolen and it is up to the audience and Fairy Godfather to get it back.

Caroline Calouche- Aerial: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
In 2006, Caroline Calouche began her explorations of blending contemporary dance with aerial dance in harness and fabric. The company's reputation for providing innovative, entertaining and edgy work was pushed to another level with the aerial work. With the increase of performances and touring, CC&Co. continues to connect to their home community along with the communities that they visit with their outreach programs in all age, ethnic and social groups.

The Cloers: Bechtler Museum Lobby
The Cloers, a Charlotte area acoustic duo known for their pensive lyrics and well-crafted songs, are recipients of a Regional Artist Project Grant from the Arts & Science Council (ASC) and were named Best Singer-Songwriter by the Charlotte Music Awards.

2:30-3:15pm
Percussion Petting Zoo: The Green: Upper Tier
Exciting, Educational, and Entertaining Interactive percussion party for Adults & Children of all AGES!

3-3:30pm
Fireman Jim: NASCAR Hall of Fame: High Octane Theatre
Fireman Jim’s Safety Show delivers memorable safety practices that are proven to save lives. Utilizing a multi-sensory approach with original music, safety demonstrations, drills, games and stories his audience is engaged in the experience. Fireman Jim incorporates a rhyme, rhythm or song into each lesson that encourages children to participate in the fun.

Xtreme Jaguars The Green: Lower Tier- Dance Tent
Xtreme Jaquars is a co-ed jump rope performance team located in Charlotte. Jumpers will demonstrate a variety of rope skills which include single rope, acrobatics & double dutch. You will be WOWED by the fancy footwork of Xtreme Jaquars. A MUST SEE PERFORMANCE.

Magic by Glen: Convention Center Stage- MLK Street- "Big Top" Fettucini Variety Show

Thistledown Tinkers: Bechtler Lobby
Thistledown Tinkers is a traditional Celtic duo that plays high-energy, rowdy Scottish and Irish folk music. They perform all around the Southeast, and we recently featured in a BBC documentary on Celtic music in the U.S. These guys always provide a boot-stompin', kilt-swingin' good time!

3-4:15pm
PlayPlay! Theatre: Convention Center Stage- MLK Street: PlayPlay! Tent 
PlayPlay! is the first theatre in the U.S. to focus solely on the international movement of theatre for the very young. Using stimulating sights and sounds, PlayPlay! engages an audience of little ones (ages birth to 3) and their loved ones. "Uh-Oh!" was PlayPlay!'s premier production back in 2010 and we are excited to bring it back again for First Night Charlotte.

3:15-3:45pm
Tarradiddle Players: Mint Museum Theatre
This four-person troupe from the Children's Theatre of Charlotte travels from Virginia to South Carolina performing in schools, community centers and towns big and small for audiences who might otherwise never see a live play. Tarradiddle Players has performed for over one million children during its 39 years!

3:15-4:00pm
Sweetbriar Jam: The Green: Middle Tier Kids Performance Stage
Progressive/Traditional Bluegrass band ingredients: Sawyer Whitman 17 yrs. old; Kaitlyn Caldwell 15 yrs. old; Dalton Caldwell 15 yrs. old; Nicholas Seymour 15 yrs. old and Sarah Seymour 12 yrs. old. The roots of this band started in 2005 with the guys (8, 9, 11 yrs. old) . In 2007, they added the girls and the band jelled into a new treat, “Sweetbriar Jam”. Presently, this young and popular bluegrass band makes its way across many stages including opening up for such well acclaimed groups as Doyle Lawson/Quicksilver, The James King Band and the Charlotte Symphony. CD’s include “Sweetbriar Jam” (2008); “In This Old Home Town of Mine” (2009) and “Briar Mountain” (2011).

3:30-4:00pm
Strength and Elegance: Convention Center Stage- MLK Street- "Big Top" Fettucini Variety Show
Strength and Elegance is a Cirque Du Soleil inspired duo with acts consisting of partner acrobatics, hoop dance, pole art, and aerial acrobatics.

Caroline Calouche- Aerial: Convention Center Stage-MLK Street: Outside Tent
In 2006, Caroline Calouche began her explorations of blending contemporary dance with aerial dance in harness and fabric. The company's reputation for providing innovative, entertaining and edgy work was pushed to another level with the aerial work. With the increase of performances and touring, CC&Co. continues to connect to their home community along with the communities that they visit with their outreach programs in all age, ethnic and social groups.

The Cloers: Bechtler Museum Lobby
The Cloers, a Charlotte area acoustic duo known for their pensive lyrics and well-crafted songs, are recipients of a Regional Artist Project Grant from the Arts & Science Council (ASC) and were named Best Singer-Songwriter by the Charlotte Music Awards.

3:45-4:15pm
Ronald Show: NASCAR Hall of Fame: High Octane Theatre
A community show featuring magic, juggling and Ronald’s favorite ideas about staying active, being a good friend and giving back to the community. There will be music, audience participation and fun for every member of the family.

Hung GAR Academy: The Green: Lower Tier
the Hung Gar Kung Fu Academy will perform traditional Chinese Lion Dance and Kung Fu, which features exotic weapons forms and exciting two person sets. the lion dance is used in all important celabrations in the chinese culture. the lion is known as the King of the Jungle, so if anything evil or bad is in the room when the lions come running in the evil leaves!! the loud drum and qong/ cymbals wakes the lion up and makes the lion want to dance. the chinese lion is always operated by two students, one under the head and one under the tail. lions come in all different bright colors and are made with paper mache over a bamboo frame.

3:45-4:30pm
Percussion Petting Zoo: The Green: Upper Tier
Exciting, Educational, and Entertaining Interactive percussion party for Adults & Children of all AGES!

4-4:30pm
The Story Ship: Mint Museum Atrium
Extraordinary theatrical children's show with interactive animation, comedy theater, magic, puppets and music. A live actor and the audience interact with puppets and animated characters projected on a large screen. "The Wand Of Dreams" is a magical mystery. The Worlds most powerful magic wand has been stolen and it is up to the audience and Fairy Godfather to get it back.

Thistledown Tinkers: Bechtler Lobby
Thistledown Tinkers is a traditional Celtic duo that plays high-energy, rowdy Scottish and Irish folk music. They perform all around the Southeast, and we recently featured in a BBC documentary on Celtic music in the U.S. These guys always provide a boot-stompin', kilt-swingin' good time!

4-5:00pm
Hyundai Sonata Car Giveaway and KIDS COUNTDOWN! Main Stage- Levine Avenue of the Arts performing

*SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE