The Skatepark of Tampa has a good track record for throwing fun and original art parties. From their shindigs at the Bricks to their events in the skatepark itself, you can usually count on a good time — regardless of whether you ride the ramps and rails yourself or just want to get in on the action.
Tonight's party should be another one for the books. At 8 p.m., the SPoT hosts the Shirts for Simpletons show in conjunction with the skatepark's big Tampa Am weekend competition, which, kicks off today. The party takes place in the Bowl Warehouse of the Skatepark of Tampa.
We're told that owner Brian Schaefer and Co. have reached out to several talented skateboard artists to create a piece of completely original work to be printed on T-shirts and sold the night of the show.
At the special interactive event, you can pick a shirt and graphic in the color of your choice and have an original design screen-printed on it right then and there. Choose a design from Ed Templeton (pictured), Todd Bratrud, Kris Markovich, Chris Pastras or Bigfoot, who are all confirmed to participate. Shirts are $20 each and proceeds go to Boards for Bros. Plus, beverages are provided for those of age courtesy of Red Bull, Berentzen, and Narraganset, and all can view the "ripping" bowl session at the all-ages free event.
The party also includes a silent auction for an original Neckface art piece, which was painted directly on the wall of Skatepark of Tampa back in 2009. With the reconstruction of the street course, the guys were able to salvage some of Neck’s work. So, not only would you be purchasing an original, one-of-a-kind work, but a piece of SPoT history, too. Once again, all proceeds go to Boards for Bros. The Skatepark of Tampa is at 4215 E Columbus Drive, Tampa, 813-621-6793, [email protected].
Each month, Best of the Bay winners Got Jokes? improv and comedy troupe hosts the Big Bang Show, introducing Tampa Bay talent-watchers to accomplished entertainers of all stripe. It's like our own version of America's Got Talent, and tonight is the troupe's season three finale.
Spoken Word Artist Daniel "Motown Pride" Jefferson (pictured) and Donalee Curtis emcee the big night, which features comedian Tony Alves, the AcroDuo acrobats, musicians Latraia Savage and the All-Stars, rock band Gates of Eden and rock guitarist Dana Harmon.
A panel of judges headlined by local fitness Guru Forbes Riley and WILD 94.1 DJ Alli That Girl, critiques each performance. Winner gets a cash prize of $1,000 and title of Season Three Champion(s). 8 p.m. Nova 535 Art Lounge, 535 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg. Tickets are $10, available at gotjokesimprov.com or brownpapertickets.com/event/107591; $15 at the door. Upgrade to the VIP lounge for $20.
