The inaugural NOODLE | The Thinkers Convention debuted in Newport News, Virginia’s emerging Yard District, officially 757 blessing over 4,000 attendees with conversations, performances, and networking opportunities centered on entrepreneurship, innovation, wellness, and education.
Led by Newport News Mayor Phillip D. Jones and founded by Antonio Dowe, the event featured appearances from Chance the Rapper, Jermaine Dupri, Daymond John, Aloe Blacc, Terrence J, CeeLo Green, and a host of leaders spanning technology, science, business, entertainment, and culture.
The convention’s marquee conversation featured Jones, John, and Chance the Rapper in a discussion curated by Terrence J, while additional programming included Rhett & Link, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, The D.O.C., Styles P, Fam-Lay, Maejor, and Grammy-winning songwriter James Fauntleroy.
While celebrity appearances helped draw attention, organizers say NOODLE was intentionally designed as something different from a traditional music festival.
“NOODLE was a first-of-its-kind event for Newport News,” Dowe said in an official statement. “There are many music festivals in this area, but not many that are programming-forward and music secondary.”…