CHUCK BENNETT

SC: ‘Married but Single Too’ star on theater, life

Chuck Bennett

‘Married but Single Too’ star talks about theater and life

We chatted up the lovely, vivacious actress LisaRaye McCoy, who is busy promoting her upcoming theater tour for “Married But Single Too.” An anticipated sequel to last year’s sold-out stage play by Je’Caryous Johnson, “Married But Single” this year kicks off its tour in Detroit on Valentine’s Day at the Music Hall. “We’re very excited about it and I love that it begins in Detroit,” says McCoy, who currently lives in L.A. “You know I’m originally a Midwest girl (Chicago). We’re neighbors, and we Midwesterners have to stick together.” LisaRaye says she loves the energy she gets from Detroit audiences. “There’s a whole thing about doing live theater,” she continues. “The cheers from the audience, the meet-and-greets afterwards, the general enthusiasm in the room. Phenomenal experience that you just don’t get from TV ratings.” LisaRaye says she visits Detroit often to see friends and family and for work. A couple of her favorite restaurants to visit while she’s here are Savannah Blue and Detroit Seafood Market. “Then I have a couple other little secret places that I like to hit,” she adds. Currently, her 6-week-old granddaughter is the light of her life, but she’s also spending a lot of time producing some projects and developing her new reality show. As far as dating, the beautiful, 50-year-old says its, “Null and void. But I’m working very hard to change that status.”

Fashion designers showcase city talent and raise money

Eighteen Detroit area fashion designers dazzled an audience of about 200 people Saturday night during the “RAINN Fashion on Common Ground Charity Runway and Trunk Show” at the Rattlesnake Club. A benefit for the RAINN Foundation, Common Ground, and HAVEN, the event was produced, organized and presented by pageant-girl Sherlyn Fox, displaying everything from couture gowns to blinged-out active wear. The event featured live mannequins, a runway show, artisan trunk show, appetizers and libations. “We not only raise money for amazing foundations, but we showcase Detroit talent, which is the portion of our focus,” said Sherlyn. “This is my second annual charity showcase, but I have coordinated and produced many successful charitable events over the past few years and have raised thousands of dollars for great causes.” WDIV-TV channel 4 news reporter Jason Colthorp masterfully co-hosted the event, along with Sherlyn, and even treated the audience to his perfect President Donald Trump impersonation. Rat & Puff of 98.7’s Morning Show were emcees, DJ Fadi Akkam and DJ BangerzDet were the event Mix Masters, and fashion blogger/stylist Latrice Delgado-Macon streamed on-the-spot interviews. Tickets were $69 general admission, $125 VIP.

DIA to present reception honoring Earl F. Lloyd

On Feb. 22, the Detroit Institute of Arts will present “Honor the Legacy,” a reception celebrating the life and legacy of the NBA’s first African-American player, Earl F. Lloyd. The evening will include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. After the reception, there will be a screening of the film “First to Do It,” documenting Lloyd’s life, followed by a panel and presentation. There is no cost to attend and proceeds from the silent auction and sponsorships will benefit the Lloyd Family Foundation. Call (313) 566-4818 for more info.

Chuck Bennett is the creator of TheSocialMetro.com and is the Fox 2 News Style Ambassador.