Author: Charleston Daily

“A real choice is unpredictable. A real choice is freedom”

CHARLESTON, SC – { 2025} – PURE Theatre is proud to announce the World Premiere of Pleasure Never Lies, a new musical by Broadway veterans Marshall Hagins and Brad Moranz. Going from high kicks to high science, the duo has created Charleston’s most intriguing new musical, which tackles evolutionary biology with the same flair the former castmates brought to A Chorus Line. Performances will run from April 10 – May 3 at the Cannon Street Arts Center.

Pleasure Never Lies follows Sam, a maverick bird scientist working in the jungle of Papua New Guinea whose radical theories about female choice in evolution threaten the academic establishment. When her former mentor (and lover) arrives to film a nature documentary, the embers of their relationship and professional rivalry ignite personal drama in a race to save both careers and a pristine wildlife reserve.

“It’s Legally Blonde meets David Attenborough…with better singing.” quips Brad Moranz. Best known for his scene-stealing turns on Broadway as Cosmo in Singin’ in the Rain and as Groucho Marx in A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine, Moranz has since settled in Charleston and composed the score for this new musical. The score blends contemporary musical theater with birdsong-inspired melodies, while the story tackles significant themes about who gets to tell the story of science.

Moranz as Groucho Marx in A Day in Hollywood, Broadway, 1984

Hagins in the first  national tour of A Chorus Line, 1982

His collaborator Marshall Hagin’s journey is equally surprising. Hagins went from dancing in Mame on Broadway to earning a PhD in Biomechanics. “I never imagined my scientific career would lead me back to theater,” says Hagins, “But when I read Richard Prum’s book about female choice in evolution, I knew it had to be a musical.”

The show was commissioned in August 2020 by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation in New York and has gone through several phases of development, including a twelve-month workshop at PURE Theatre. Early audiences have praised the show’s wit and unexpected emotional depth. “We’re not explaining science,” Hagins shares. “We’re asking what happens when you challenge the accepted narratives—in science, in love, in life.”

“People hear ‘musical about science’ and expect something dry,” says Moranz, “But this is a passionate story about fighting for your ideas and following your heart.” 

The show is directed by PURE Artistic Director Sharon Graci and features a host of local talent, including Kindred Moore, Matt Shingledecker, Tiffany Parker, Teresa Catherine, Maddie Casto, Noah Anderson, and PURE Core Ensemble member Shivam Patel. 

Tickets for Pleasure Never Lies range from $47 to $53. Pay What You Will Performances will be on April 10 and 16, and Pay What You Will tickets will be available for online purchase two weeks before the show’s opening. There are $12 student tickets available for every show. Tickets are available now at puretheatre.org.

Additional information about Pleasure Never Lies can be found on PURE’s website at puretheatre.org or by calling the box office at 843.723.4444 (Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm). 

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ABOUT PURE THEATRE

PURE Theatre is a professional regional theatre in Charleston that creates consequential theatre experiences by and for a diverse gathering of artists and audiences. PURE produces work that inspires thought, ignites dialogue, heightens consciousness, and contributes to our community’s urgent exchange of ideas, viewpoints, aspirations, and inspirations.

PURE’s staff includes Sharon Graci (Co-founder and Artistic Director), Rodney Lee Rogers (Co-founder and Director of New Media and Education), David Mandel (Associate Artistic Director), Joy Vandervort-Cobb (Associate Artistic Director), Richard Heffner (Technical Director), Shivam Patel (Education and New Media Associate), Meagan McMahon (Patron Experience and Marketing Manager), and Tippy Trombly (Patron Experience and Marketing Associate). 

Serving on PURE Theatre’s board of directors are Michael Culler (President), Peter Calcagno (Treasurer), Chris Burgess (Secretary), Amy Gaffney, Bridget Durkan Laird, Liza Elsner, David Smalls, Brad Erickson, Stephanie Hunt, and Drew Childers.

DQ Restaurant Opens in James Island, SC

Local Restaurant Operating Group Opens First DQ in Charleston County

James Island, S.C. – James Island just got a whole lot tastier with a new DQ® restaurant coming to town.

American Dairy Queen Corporation (ADQ), an iconic leader in treats and food, announced today a new DQ Restaurant with its grand opening on March 7. Conveniently located off the James Island Expressway at 345 Folly Road, the restaurant will be owned by Dream Cone LLC.

“We chose to franchise with Dairy Queen because of our admiration for such a longstanding, reputable brand and the joy it brings to people of all ages, especially kids,” said a representative from Dream Cone LLC. “Everyone has a happy memory of sharing an ice cream with family and friends, and we want to help create those same moments for residents in the Charleston area. We believe this restaurant will be a gathering place for our community, where people can come together to enjoy tasty treats and make lasting memories.”

This is Dream Cone’s first restaurant in South Carolina. The group looks forward to supporting the local MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital through Dairy Queen’s partnership with the Children’s Miracle Network Charity, as well as sponsoring local youth and baseball teams in the area.

The restaurant will serve its iconic food and treats, including Signature Stackburgers™, Chicken Strip Baskets and world-famous DQ soft serve in cones, sundaes, shakes, and the signature Blizzard^® Treat, among many more craveable menu items.

A welcoming environment for all, the new DQ restaurant features a modern design with large comfortable booths, community tables and chairs, a designated mobile order pick-up counter, drive-thru lanes, an outdoor patio and fireplace, and an iconic 14-foot DQ red spoon.

The restaurant will be open, starting on March 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Sunday through Saturday, with the drive-thru open until midnight. The James Island location is the first DQ restaurant owned by Dream Cone LLC.

About International Dairy Queen

International Dairy Queen, Inc., (IDQ), headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is the parent company of American Dairy Queen Corporation and Dairy Queen Canada, Inc. Through its subsidiaries, IDQ develops, licenses and services a system of more than 7,500 DQ restaurants in 20 countries. IDQ is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. (Berkshire), which is led by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire. For more information, visit www.DairyQueen.com. 

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BY: ANNA CLAIRE MILLER

The Lowcountry of South Carolina is more than just picturesque coastal towns with stunning views — it’s a cinematic treasure trove that’s attracted some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters.

With its charming antebellum homes, towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to see why filmmakers continue to flock here.

For 2025, another popular show is set to make its return to the picturesque backdrops and open landscapes of Beaufort.

What’s coming in 2025?

According to Dan Rogers, representative for the South Carolina Film Commission, the fifth and final season of the Netflix show, “Outer Banks,” will begin filming in Beaufort County starting in May.

The cast and crew of Outer Banks have traveled across the coast from Charleston and even down to Morocco for filming. The first time they set foot in Beaufort County was for season one back in 2019. They also briefly revisited for season four last year.

What is the show about?

Set in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, this show brings together a group of teenagers, divided into the haves and have-nots, known in the show’s universe as “Kooks” and “Pogues.”

John B, one of the main characters, is on a hunt for the treasure that may link him to his missing father.

He enlists the help of his friends to help him track it down, but drama and romance unfold along the way.

Where in Beaufort County will they be filming?

Back in season one, Hunting Island was the primary spot for the show’s filming.

Located just over 15 miles east of Beaufort, its sandy beaches, natural driftwood and landmark Hunting Island lighthouse made it a pristine location for one of the sets of the show.

Other neighboring Lowcountry locations that were used for filming in previous seasons include:

• Kiawah Island Golf Resort
• Charleston and North Charleston
• McClellanville

While Outer Banks is the only project on the horizon for now, Rogers confirmed that several additional projects are also coming to the Lowcountry, potentially as soon as the fall and winter of 2025. Details about these potential projects are still under wraps.

Why is the Lowcountry a popular spot for filming?

It’s no surprise that the Lowcountry has become a hotspot for filmmakers due to its natural beauty and strategic location.

Charlie Clark, vice president of communications for the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, noted that the region is surrounded by Georgia and North Carolina, both of which offer attractive tax credits and incentives that draw productions to the area.

Clark also shared that the area’s distinctive charm has made it a popular setting for a wide variety of projects and that the Chamber offices often collaborate with film crews from the “Today Show,” “Food Network” and “HGTV” productions, as well as commercial shoots for brands like adidas and Mercedes-Benz.

Popular films in the past

Beaufort’s captivating beauty and timeless charm have made it a go-to backdrop for some truly unforgettable films, including but not limited to:

• “Forrest Gump” (1994)

This Academy Award-winning film starring Tom Hanks is perhaps the most famous movie filmed in Beaufort. The landscapes of Fripp Island, Hunting Island and Beaufort’s rural roads were featured in many memorable scenes, making it a standout in both cinematic history and Beaufort’s film legacy.

• “The Great Santini” (1979)

This drama starring Robert Duvall and Blythe Danner is another standout. It was filmed at the historic Tidalholm Mansion, which has since become one of Beaufort’s most recognizable landmarks. Based on Pat Conroy’s novel, it highlights Beaufort’s timeless charm and Southern elegance.

• “G.I. Jane” (1997)

A classic and unforgettable film starring Demi Moore, G.I. Jane was shot on Parris Island, where it filmed key military training scenes. The film’s military setting makes this an important project for showcasing the region’s connection to the U.S. Marine Corps.

• “The Prince of Tides” (1991)

This film, based on Pat Conroy’s novel, stars Barbra Streisand and Nick Nolte. It was shot in Beaufort and the surrounding Lowcountry. The stunning natural beauty of the region is highlighted in this film.

• “A Perfect World” (1993)

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Kevin Costner, this crime drama used Beaufort’s atmospheric streets and marshlands to tell the story. This film is a common standout for Beaufort due to its creative use of the natural landscape.

These films are all significant for their iconic status, representation of the region and contribution to the cinematic history of Beaufort County.

Learn more about the Lowcountry film industry

If you’re interested in exploring the history and filming locations of other movies and shows in the Lowcountry, Beaufort, SC Tours offers guided excursions that take you to some of the town’s most iconic filming spots.

Beginning at the downtown marina, these tours share behind-the-scenes stories and offer a richer understanding of Beaufort’s cinematic heritage.

You can choose between a walking or golf cart tour and tickets start at $30.

For film enthusiasts, Beaufort is also home to the Beaufort International Film Festival, which takes place every February.

Although this year’s festival has just ended, it continues to draw filmmakers and cinema lovers from across the globe, celebrating the art of storytelling in one of the South’s most iconic and memorable film locations.

Source: The State

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This luxurious downtown home right on The Battery and includes an elevated pool is for sale in Historic Charleston, South Carolina.

Here are the details:

Cost: $11,800,000

Rooms: 5 beds and 7 baths

Size: 6,755 sqft

Location: 100 Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC 29401

Official Listing Website

About the property

Experience luxurious living in this contemporary style home with incredible direct waterfront views in the vibrant heart of downtown Charleston. Completely renovated and reimagined in 2021 with sophisticated design, this spectacular modern home was built to take advantage of prime views of the Ashley River, Charleston Harbor, the new Battery promenade, and beautiful sunsets.

The large floor-to-ceiling windows across the front of the home frame the waterfront as art, while yachts and other boats glide by on the river. With an open floor plan and top-of-the-line finishes, this extraordinary home has a stunning steel and glass floating staircase rising 3 levels, an elevated pool, large outdoor pool terrace with outdoor kitchen, fireplace and television perfect for entertaining.

Other incredible features include a garage, elevator, roof top deck with 360 degree views of Charleston and beyond, as well as Fleetwood retractable doors slide open for seamless indoor/outdoor living. Two large porches, one off the living room and one off the master bedroom, provide birds eye views of the waterfront and the Battery.

The master suite is incredible with direct long waterfront views, luxurious bathroom with fireplace between the bedroom and shower, soaking tub with riverfront views, coffee maker and beverage refrigerator. All 5 bedrooms have gorgeous en suite bathrooms. There is a fantastic guest suite with bedroom, full bathroom, stacked laundry, full kitchen and living room, with private elevator access.

This property was designed for entertaining and wellness with a Miami/Los Angeles vibe, featuring a home gym, infrared + steam sauna, massage room, theater room with surround sound and terraced seating, billiard room, wine + wet bar, elevated pool, and plenty of space for entertaining. The property is walled and gated for privacy and security, with off-street parking for 8+ cars plus a garage for one car and a golf cart.

This spectacular contemporary home is a unique trophy property in historic downtown Charleston in the prestigious South of Broad neighborhood. Contemporary style new homes are rare in the historic district, and this one surpasses all expectations. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for a turnkey home that embodies resort style living. Please refer to list of Features and Floor Plans for more details on this special property.

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Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) gains the only nonstop flights to Newark (EWR) and Orlando (MCO) and new, nonstop service to Fort Lauderdale (FLL)

DANIA BEACH, Fla., March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Spirit Airlines announced today that it will touch down in the heart of South Carolina this June with new, high-value service at Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE). The carrier will offer nonstop service to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and the only nonstop flights to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and OrlandoInternational Airport (MCO), the airport nearest to Orlando’s major theme parks and attractions. Spirit’s all-Airbus fleet will take off from CAE for the first time on June 5, with travel options ranging from premium to economical.

“We’re excited to kick off our Columbia service just in time for summer and deliver a great value to visit some of the most popular leisure destinations along the East Coast,” said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines. “Travelers from South Carolina’s capital city will soon enjoy convenient nonstop options and Spirit’s recently transformed experience on their way to various destinations with beaches, theme parks and big city attractions.”

Spirit Airlines Columbia (CAE) Service
Destination:	Flights Available:	Launch Date:	Introductory Fare:
Fort Lauderdale (FLL)	3x Weekly	June 6, 2025	Starting at $50* one way
Newark (EWR)	4x Weekly	June 5, 2025	Starting at $50* one way
Orlando (MCO)	3x Weekly	June 5, 2025	Starting at $50* one way

“Securing three nonstop routes on Spirit Airlines is a significant accomplishment for the airport and likewise a big win for this entire community and region,” said Gregg Hornsby, Interim President & CEO and CFO at Columbia Metropolitan Airport. “We’re excited to welcome the Spirit team to the airport and look forward to seeing travelers in the coming months taking advantage of these fantastic air service opportunities.”

The airline first launched its South Carolina service at Myrtle Beach (MYR) more than 25 years ago and later added Charleston (CHS) to its route map in 2023.

Introductory Fare
Guests traveling between Columbia (CAE) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Newark (EWR) and Orlando (MCO) can take advantage of an introductory fare starting at $50* one-way for travel from June 5 through Aug. 12, 2025. Must be purchased 14 days in advance to be eligible. These special introductory fares are available for purchase through March 20, 2025.

Spirit’s Enhanced Guest Experience
Columbia Guests can enjoy Spirit’s recent transformation and new travel options, which provide an elevated and more seamless experience no matter the destination. The four new travel options include:

• Go Big to get enhanced comfort with a Big Front Seat^®, a carry-on and first checked bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Check-in and Boarding, complimentary snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages and streaming access to fast Wi-Fi.
• Go Comfy to choose an aisle or window seat with no one in the middle, a carry-on bag, no change or cancel fees, priority boarding, a small snack and non-alcoholic beverage.
• Go Savvy to get a standard seat selection, carry-on bag and no change or cancel fees.
• Go to keep it simple with no extras. Standard seat selection, checked bags and other options can be purchased separately.

Recognition
Spirit was recently recognized by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) as a 2025 Four Star Low Cost Carrier. The airline’s Fit Fleet^® was also named one of the world’s youngest for 2025 by ch-aviation. Additionally, the carrier was recognized with the FAA’s Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award of Excellence for the seventh consecutive year.

*One-way fares subject to a 14-day advance purchase, valid for booking on March 5, 2025, through March 20, 2025, and travel from June 5, 2025, through Aug. 12, 2025. No Fri/Sun travel. Blackout dates: July 2, 2025, through July 7, 2025. Subject to availability.

About Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is a leading low-fare carrier committed to delivering the best value in the sky by offering an enhanced travel experience with flexible, affordable options. Spirit serves destinations throughout the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean with its Fit Fleet®, one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the U.S. Spirit is committed to inspiring positive change in the communities it serves through the Spirit Charitable Foundation. Discover elevated travel options with exceptional value at spirit.com.

SOURCE Spirit Airlines

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In a sober and heartfelt message today on Instagram, Bumpa’s, located at 5 Cumberland Street in downtown Charleston, South Carolina announced their closing.

March 17th will be their final day with an enthusiastic St. Patrick’s Day celebration to end and era.

In the message, Dan and Conor said:

With (really) heavy hearts, we must share the difficult decision to close our doors. Our final day of service will be on March 17. We still plan to hold our annual St. Patrick’s Day bash that day, and we hope you join us to help Bumpa’s go out with a bang! We will be open during regular business hours until then.

We are beyond grateful for our incredible staff, whose hard work helped make our dream of creating a brother-run pub a reality. Thank you to all of the locals and visitors who supported us and filled our place with cheer for nearly 5 years. The memories we’ve created and the amazing people we’ve met along the way will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Though it pains us that this chapter is ending, we’re damn proud of what we created.

We’d love to see all your faces over the next 13 days as we celebrate the wild ride we’ve had and the community we’ve built together. 

Sincerely,
Dan & Conor

To the owners, staff and entire Bumpa’s family, we thank you and wish you all the best.

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Charleston, S.C. – The International African American Museum (IAAM) has received a

generous $750,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation, furthering the museum’s objective to become a leading international connector and crusader within the African American and Black Diaspora. This generous gift, the latest in a series of significant contributions, will support IAAM’s ambitious initiatives to link points of departure and arrival of the Transatlantic slave trade, beginning with a deepened partnership with Barbados.

This new grant brings the Mellon Foundation’s lifetime giving to IAAM to $2.9 million, underscoring their unwavering commitment to the museum and its shared mission. As a Founding Donor, the Mellon Foundation’s support has been instrumental in establishing IAAM as a vital cultural institution.

“Inherent in IAAM’s mission and clearly stated in its name is the responsibility to articulate the African American experience within the broader context of the African diaspora,” said Malika Pryor, IAAM’s Chief Learning and Engagement Officer. “Whether at Gadsden’s Wharf on the port of Charleston or in Bridgetown, Barbados: The culturaljourney of captured African people did not begin on American shores.”

“With this incredibly generous support from the Mellon Foundation, IAAM can further trace the journey and continue tolink the passages and pathways of people who are too often separated by time and languished relationality. This initiativewill further reveal that we were always and have remained connected, that despite borders marked by land and sea, the people were and remain transcendent,” Malika said.

The $750,000 grant will fund key initiatives, including:

• Strengthening the IAAM-Barbados Partnership: IAAM will collaborate with the Government of Barbados to develop the cultural arts initiatives, create fellowship programs connecting HBCUs with international institutions, and launch cultural heritage tours exploring shared cultural expressions like culinary, dance, and music. This builds upon the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between IAAM and Barbados in October 2023.
• Acquiring Bunce Island Stones for the African Ancestors Memorial Garden: IAAM aims to acquire and preserve stones from Bunce Island, Sierra Leone, a significant departure point for African captive. This initiative will document the acquisition process, highlight the island’s historical significance, capture oral histories from local griots, and produce an educational film. This will help transform Charleston into a pilgrimage destination.
• Developing a Traveling International Festive Culture Exhibition: The creation of a traveling InternationalFestive Culture Exhibition, which will explore the vibrant and rich festive traditions that have been essential toAfrican diasporic communities for centuries. The exhibition intends to shed light on the intricate and oftenneglected stories associated with these festive customs, providing a detailed and nuanced appreciation of their importance with a focus on Barbados, Brazil, Cuba, Haiti, the United Kingdom, and other sites of significance within the Festive Culture legacy.

IAAM is committed to connecting South Carolina, particularly the Lowcountry and Gullah Geechee culture, with Africa,West Africa, and the Transatlantic slave trade. This funding will position IAAM as a pivotal organization in facilitatingcritical dialogues, conducting in-depth research, and developing innovative programs and curricula.

About the International African American Museum

The International African American Museum (IAAM) explores the history, culture, and impact of the AfricanAmerican journey on Charleston, South Carolina, the nation, and the world, shining light and sharing stories of thediverse journeys, origin, and achievements of descendants of the African Diaspora. Located at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf, IAAM honors the untold stories of the African American journey. Learn more at www.iaamuseum.org and follow IAAM on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

By Mark A Leon 

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city teeming with history, culture, and stories that have shaped its identity.  There are so many storytellers who are continuing the dialogue, sharing personal experiences and dedicatng their lives to keeping our local narrative thriving.  These four individuals of varied backgrounds all share one common root:  Passion for Charleston, its past, present and future.

Let’s learn a bit more about these four individuals whose storytelling efforts are preserving Charleston’s legacy for future generations.  Let us not forget about the hundreds of others throughout the Lowcountry because sometimes a story is the greatest gift you can take away from Charleston.

1. Carolyn White: The Matriarch of Gullah Storytelling

At 85 years old, Carolyn White is a passionate advocate for preserving the Gullah Geechee culture of the Lowcountry. Known as the “Matriarch of Gullah Storytelling,” she has spent over five decades sharing the history and traditions of her people through storytelling worldwide. Raised on James Island, her authentic voice and cultural knowledge make her a vital link to Charleston’s African American heritage.

Related: Gullah Storyteller Carolyn “Jabulile” White on “Bounce Around Charleston”

2. John LaVerne: Preservationist and Tour Guide

Founder of Bulldog Tours (A Tour Company with a Mission), John LaVerne has dedicated his career to preserving Charleston’s historic landmarks. Through his sustainable tourism model, he has raised $6 million for restoration projects, including the Circular Congregational Church graveyard. His storytelling during tours highlights Charleston’s architectural and cultural legacy while supporting its preservation for future generations.

3. Hawk Hurst: Storyteller and Folk Musician

Hawk Hurst blends storytelling with music to celebrate ancient cultures and their connection to nature. A master craftsman of traditional instruments, he conducts interactive programs across Charleston that emphasize respect for diversity and the environment. His performances inspire audiences of all ages, keeping traditional tales alive in modern times.

Related: Storytelling with Hawk Hurst

4. Damon Fordham: Historian, Author and adjunct professor at The Citadel

Damon Fordham is a historian, author, and adjunct professor at The Citadel who specializes in uncovering and sharing lost African American stories. Through his “Lost Stories of Black Charleston” walking tours, Fordham educates visitors on significant but often overlooked narratives, such as Denmark Vesey’s rebellion and the origins of Porgy & Bess. His work extends to writing, with books like The 1895 Segregation Fight in South Carolina, which highlights African American resistance during the Jim Crow era. Fordham’s storytelling combines historical depth with a personal touch, making history accessible and impactful.

Related: Discovering Lost African American Stories With Author, Tour Guide, And Citadel History Professor Damon Fordham – Charleston Magazine

Related: Release of “Black Folktales and Chronicles of South Carolina” by Damon Fordham (Video)

5. Mike Brown: Ghost Tour Guide ane Storyteller

Mike Brown is Charleston’s most experienced ghost tour guide and an internationally acclaimed storyteller. Known for his “Pleasing Terrors Ghost Tour,” he blends suspenseful storytelling with deep historical knowledge of Charleston’s haunted past. Brown also hosts the popular Pleasing Terrors Podcast, which has reached audiences in over 100 countries. His engaging style and dedication to preserving Charleston’s folklore have made him a standout figure in both local and global storytelling circles.

Posthumous

Muhiyidin d’Baha: Activist and Advocate

Muhiyidin d’Baha was a prominent activist who used storytelling to amplify marginalized voices in Charleston. Known for his bold actions in social justice movements, he worked tirelessly to address systemic issues through education and advocacy. His legacy continues to inspire conversations about equity and inclusion in the city.

Related: Muhiyidin d’Baha, Activist Known for Confederate Flag Grab, Killed in New Orleans

These storytellers embody Charleston’s spirit, ensuring its rich history and diverse narratives endure for generations to come.

If you are able to meet a great Charleston storyteller, stop what you are doing, grab a seat and just listen……

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Four people from the College of Charleston were awarded Fulbright fellowships for 2024-2025.

The College of Charleston has been named a Top Producing Institution for Fulbright U.S. Scholars for the 2024-2025 academic year. 

The four 2024-2025 College of Charleston Fulbright Scholars are Marvin Gonzalez, Brian Lanahan,  Melissa Ochal and Theodore Them.  A complete list of all College of Charleston Fulbright recipients can be found here.

“Being recognized as a leading institution for Fulbright scholars is truly an honor,” says Suzanne Austin, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost at the College of Charleston. “I am immensely proud of these dedicated scholars, who will not only share their expertise abroad but also return with new insights to enhance our campus community.”

The Fulbright Program was established over 75 years ago to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. Fulbright is the world’s largest and most diverse international educational exchange program. The primary funding source for the Fulbright Program is an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program is supported at the College of Charleston through the Office of Research and Grants Administration.

RELATED: Read about the faculty members and staff member who received 2024-2025 Fulbright awards.