Connect with us

Entertainment

Rosalia, Lizzo, Cardi B wrap up over the top Miami art week

Published

on

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (AP) — The over-the-top parties and star-studded shows surrounding Miami’s Art Basel wrapped up this weekend with performances by Rosalia, Lizzo, Cardi B and rocker Lenny Kravitz.

The annual event, which was canceled last year during the pandemic, is an extension of the prestigious art show in Switzerland. But over the years, Miami has put its own spin on the affair, which has become a magnet for celebrities. Everyone from Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Kanye West and Joe Jonas were spotted around town.

The highlight of the week was Louis Vuitton’s first ever U.S. fashion show Tuesday. But the lavish affair, where guests where ferried to an island by private yacht, turned into an emotional tribute after legendary 41-year-old designer Virgil Abloh died suddenly just days before the show. Kid Cudi and Erykah Badu performed at an after-party where dozens of dancing red drones blazed the skyline to write “Virgil was here.”

Fashion brand Burberry and W magazine hosted a party attended by models Karlie Kloss and Candice Swanepoel, along with Camila Coelho, A$AP Ferg, and Meadow Walker.

Rosalia gave a surprise performance Friday night to celebrate Chanel’s iconic fragrance. The French fashion house partnered with artist Es Devlin for a multisensory sculptural installation that included a forest of over 1,000 plants and trees. Before the show, Chanel hosted a private dinner attended by Pharrell Maluma, Leon Bridges, Joe Jonas and songstress sister trio HAIM.

The fashion brand’s Five Echoes installation is free and open to the public until Dec. 21.

Cardi B performed Saturday night to launch her new line of vodka infused whipped cream. The rapper sprayed Whipshots into the mouth of fans at The Goodtime Hotel. Offset, Mary J. Blige and Timbaland were among the guests. After the event, Cardi B and hubby Offset made their way to Hyde Beach at SLS South Beach for the MAXIM party where the couple danced as 112 performed its old-school hit “Peaches and Cream.” Karrueche, Austin Mahone and Taye Diggs were also in the crowd.

After hours, over 500 fans lined up around the block to get into rapper Meek Mill’s sold-out show at E11EVEN. He didn’t take the stage until 3:30 a.m. Cardi B, Leonardo DiCaprio, Nina Agdal, Karrueche, Migos and Marshmello stayed for the late-night performance.

The official Art Basel fair attracted 60,000 visitors this year, according to a statement, but thousands more attended various art shows all week. At Art Miami, a $4 million Banksy sale, a 10-year-old phenom painter and an 18 carat gold bagel avocado toast on sale for $2.9 million at Galerie Rother generated buzz.

The ultra-futuristic Paramount Miami Worldcenter even partnered with artist Mr. Glue to host a scavenger hunt for street trash transformed into valuable artworks.

And in a week where art often borders on the absurd — remember the infamous $120,000 b anana duct tape pieces — Miami’s DJ Khaled dropped “bling wings” topped with 24-karat gold dust and edible diamonds to promote his restaurant.

Swizz Beatz partnered with American Express to bring back “Women in Art,” commissioning a live installation by artist Tanda Francis at an event Saturday night. The credit card company also hosted a private performance by Lizzo at The Miami Beach Edition.

Dr. Deepak Chopra partnered with “Game of Thrones” star Emilia Clarke for an intimate morning meditation launching his Metaverse For Good platform and NFT drop. At night, Alicia Keys also led a guided meditation where mechanical flowers hanging from the ceiling opened and closed like inhales and exhales. Wearing a neon yellow gown and thigh high boots at Superblue, Miami’s experiential art center, the Grammy winner played songs from her new album dropping next week.

DiCaprio, Marc Anthony, Soleil Moon Frye and Alicia Machado helped pal Sean Penn raise $1.6 million at a fundraiser Thursday night benefiting Penn’s CORE foundation (Community Organized Relief Effort), specifically its crisis response programs across Latin America, including Haiti and Brazil.

DiCaprio also showed up to art collector Wayne Boich’s annual bash, along with Venus and Serena Williams and Latin boy band CNCO. Kravitz took the stage for a 75-minute concert. Rapper T.I. closed out the party.

Even Playboy got in on the action to promote its new lifestyle brand BIG BUNNY. Guests Cardi B, Lizzo, and Charlie XCX attended a surrealist ball, centered around the idea that pleasure is a fundamental human right. The new collection pays homage to artist Salvador Dal who was commissioned for the magazine in 1973 and 1974.

Across town, actress Eva Longoria played the role of mixologist at a party Friday night to promote her new brand Casa Del Sol tequila, pouring drinks for attendees including longtime friend Serena Williams.

Rapper Young Thug headlined an NFT party on Saturday night with Von Dutch in the hip Wynwood District.

Other celebrity spotting included Maroon Five’s Adam Levine and wife Victoria Secret Angel Behati Prinsloo sitting with friend Marc Anthony at David Grutman and Pharrell’s restaurant Swan. Rauw Alejandro and Rosalia also enjoyed a date night there.

Longtime Basel fixture Vera Wang, who wore custom grey, silk Vera dress, also dined at the restaurant with fellow fashion designer Donna Karen, and Giancarlo Stanton. Record producer and DJ Diplo visited the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science with a group of family and friends.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Entertainment

Get Ready for a Soulful Night with Fantasia Barrino and Anthony Hamilton at Addition Financial Arena

Published

on

Source: Ticketmaster

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) –If you’re looking for a night filled with unforgettable music, deep emotions, and soul-stirring performances, mark your calendars for April 25, 2025. That’s when two of the most beloved voices in R&B, Fantasia Barrino and Anthony Hamilton, will take the stage at the Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida. This concert isn’t just an event—it’s an experience that promises to move you, uplift you, and make you fall in love with music all over again.

Since her powerful rise to fame as the winner of American Idol, Fantasia Barrino has captivated audiences with her raw, emotional voice and the way she pours every ounce of her heart into her music. Whether it’s the gospel-infused ballads or her sassy, upbeat R&B anthems, Fantasia has a way of making you feel every note, every lyric. This concert will bring her signature mix of powerful classics like “When I See You” and “Free Yourself,” along with newer hits that showcase just how much she’s grown as an artist. Expect to see Fantasia perform with all the passion and energy she’s known for, creating a bond with her audience that feels personal and intimate, even in a large venue like the Addition Financial Arena.

Joining Fantasia is the incomparable Anthony Hamilton, whose velvety smooth voice and storytelling ability have made him a legend in his own right. Known for songs like “Charlene” and “The Point of It All,” Anthony has a rare gift for connecting with his listeners on a deeply emotional level. His music speaks of love, loss, healing, and everything in between, and when he performs, you feel every word as if it’s your own story being told. Fans can expect Anthony to take them on a journey with his soulful melodies, his heart-wrenching lyrics, and his unforgettable stage presence. There’s something about his voice that just resonates, and being able to experience it live is truly a gift.

While Fantasia and Anthony Hamilton are stars in their own right, there’s a special kind of magic that happens when they come together. The two have such distinct, powerful voices that blend beautifully when harmonized, and this concert will showcase that perfect synergy. Whether they’re performing separately or sharing the stage for some powerhouse duets, the energy between these two artists is electric—and the audience will feel it. This is the kind of concert where you’ll find yourself singing along, clapping, and maybe even getting a little emotional, as their voices tell stories that resonate with the heart.

This isn’t just another concert—it’s a chance to witness two of R&B’s finest share their music, their passion, and their stories with you in one unforgettable evening. The Addition Financial Arena in Orlando provides the perfect backdrop for this soulful night, giving fans the perfect setting to enjoy the music up close and personal. So whether you’re an old-school fan of Fantasia’s “I Believe” or you’ve been hooked on Anthony Hamilton’s soulful ballads, this is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s a chance to experience two of the most powerful voices in R&B live, and trust us—this night will be one to remember for years to come.

Tickets for this highly anticipated concert are already flying off the shelves, so don’t wait too long to grab yours at Ticketmaster.com This is the kind of event that you’ll want to experience in person, and once you hear Fantasia and Anthony Hamilton live, you’ll never forget the magic of the night. So, get ready to be swept away by the power of soul, love, and music—April 25, 2025 is the night to remember. Be there!

________________________________________________________
Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Love, Culture, and Comedy Collide in The Wedding Banquet (2025)

Published

on

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS)- Arriving in theaters April 18, The Wedding Banquet (2025) brings a fresh and heartfelt perspective to the classic romantic comedy, blending cultural tradition, modern relationships, and the complexities of identity. Directed by Andrew Ahn (Spa Night, Driveways, Fire Island), the film is a reimagining of the beloved 1993 movie of the same name, now updated for a new generation with humor, warmth, and a stellar cast.

At the center of the story is Min, portrayed by Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live, Wicked), a gay man who finds himself under pressure to maintain appearances for his traditional family. In a mutually beneficial arrangement, he agrees to a green-card marriage with his best friend, played by Kelly Marie Tran (Raya and the Last Dragon, Star Wars: The Last Jedi), who is seeking access to in vitro fertilization. The plan is simple—on paper.

Things take an unexpected turn when Min’s grandmother makes a surprise trip from Seoul and insists on throwing a full traditional Korean wedding banquet. What follows is a whirlwind of secrets, revelations, and genuine emotion as the pair tries to keep up the façade in front of loved ones while quietly confronting their own personal truths.

Rounding out the cast is Lily Gladstone, whose acclaimed, Oscar-nominated performance in Killers of the Flower Moon made her one of the most compelling actors to watch. Her role adds a grounded presence and emotional depth that further elevates the film’s dynamic ensemble.

This remake arrives at a particularly meaningful moment in cinematic history. The original The Wedding Banquet, directed by Ang Lee and released in 1993, was officially added to the U.S. National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2023. This prestigious recognition is reserved for films considered “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant,” ensuring their preservation for future generations. The original broke new ground by bringing Asian American and LGBTQ+ stories into mainstream consciousness, and its selection by the Library of Congress underscores its enduring impact and relevance.

By reimagining The Wedding Banquet through a contemporary lens, Andrew Ahn not only honors the legacy of Ang Lee’s original but also introduces new audiences to a story that still resonates—one that navigates love, family, identity, and the universal human desire to be accepted. The 2025 version embraces both the comedic and emotional beats of the original while creating space for modern perspectives, representation, and storytelling.

With standout performances, sharp writing, and a balance of sincerity and laughter, The Wedding Banquet (2025) is more than just a romantic comedy—it’s a celebration of chosen family, cultural connection, and the beautifully messy ways we find love and acceptance.

Opening April 18—bring tissues, bring laughter, and don’t miss the invitation.

__________________________________________

Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Viola Davis Leads Amazon Prime’s G20 to #1 Streaming Spot, Redefines Action Hero as U.S. President

Published

on

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (FNN NEWS)Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis has once again proven her star power and storytelling prowess in Amazon Prime Video’s newest blockbuster action-thriller G20, which has surged to become the platform’s most-watched movie since its release. Davis not only stars as U.S. President Danielle Sutton, but also served as a producer, helping bring this bold, global political thriller to life after seven years of development.

“This was a long road, but oh, so worth it!” Davis shared on Instagram, celebrating the film’s success. “@JuVeeProductions continues our mission to bring dynamic storytelling, characters, and actors that reflect the world—and, most importantly, to deliver a film that truly entertains.”

A GLOBAL CRISIS. A COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF LIKE NO OTHER.

In G20, President Danielle Sutton attends the G20 Summit in South Africa, but when a violent terrorist siege threatens the safety of world leaders and her own daughter, Sutton is thrust into a high-stakes survival mission. With communication lines cut and chaos unfolding, Sutton relies on her elite military background to outwit enemies and prevent a global catastrophe.

This isn’t your typical action flick—G20 is a pulse-pounding, character-driven political thriller that blends intense physical action with deep emotional gravitas. Davis’s portrayal brings raw humanity and strategic brilliance to the role, capturing a leader who is fearless, focused, and unshakably fierce.

BLACK-ISH REUNION, EMOTIONAL DEPTH

The film also features a compelling reunion of Anthony Anderson and Marsai Martin, best known as father and daughter in the hit sitcom Black-ish. In G20, they portray family in a much darker, higher-stakes environment, and their chemistry adds warmth, urgency, and authenticity to the story’s emotional core.

DAVIS’S CAREER MOMENTUM CONTINUES

Following her groundbreaking performance as General Nanisca in The Woman King (2022), Davis has continued to evolve her creative reach:

  • Narrated Disney’s Candlelight Processional (2022)

  • Portrayed Dr. Volumnia Gaul in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

  • Voiced the villain in Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024)

  • Honored as a Barbie doll for International Women’s Day

  • Reprised her role as Amanda Waller in DC’s Creature Commandos animated series

“SEEING IT TO BELIEVE IT”: VIOLA’S MISSION FOR REPRESENTATION

To prepare for G20, Davis underwent intense physical training, but her purpose was clear.

“I did it to put every young Black girl in this story,” she explained.
“When you see it, you can believe it… So when you get the baton in your hand, that’s your new job—to pay it forward.”

G20 stars Viola Davis (Image via YouTube/Prime Video)

A MOVEMENT IN MOTION

G20 is more than a film—it’s a cultural statement. It proves that blockbuster action thrillers can be inclusive, thoughtful, and empowering while still delivering big on spectacle and suspense. Davis redefines the image of a global leader, showing the world that the face of power is diverse, capable, and here to stay.

Move over, Will Smith—Viola’s got the shades, the stance, and the state of emergency.

Once again, Viola Davis doesn’t just headline a movie—she leads a movement. And with G20 holding strong as Amazon Prime Video’s top-streamed film, the world is watching.

__________________________________________

Florida National News

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Advertisement Ticket Time Machine ad
Advertisement Orlando Regional REALTOR Association logo
Advertisement Parts Pass App
Advertisement Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando
Advertisement
Advertisement African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
Advertisement FNN News en Español
Advertisement Indian American Chamber of Commerce logo
Advertisement Florida Sports Channel

FNN Newsletter

Trending