Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Back to the Bayou
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Though the signs of Katrina still mar New Orleans and the surrounding area, signs of rebirth are just as prevalent. Among the most noticeable of these is the endurance of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Festival (http://www.nojazzfest.org), which will take place this year on the weekends of April 26 and May 3.
Even though last year’s Festival was scheduled to take place just months after the hurricanes had ripped through the region, Fest founder George Wein and his team at Festival Productions were determined that, though the body had been beaten, the spirit of ‘Fest and of New Orleans would not die.
“It’s certainly one of the most important festivals,” says associate producer Louis Edwards. “That not only has to do with the size of it, but also the moment in time.”
In bringing attention to the musical and creative wonders of the area, Fest helps keep New Orleans in the national and international consciousness. It also brings desperately needed funds and support to the region. “Visitors enjoy the area’s great artists,” Wein says, explaining how Fest also helps local musicians expand their audiences outside of the area. “They return home, and before you know it, these musicians are getting gigs all around the globe. “
In addition to local stars like Harry Connick, Jr., Kermit Ruffins, Cowboy Mouth, Dr. John, Pete Fountain, Better Than Ezra, Rebirth Brass Band, and Allen Toussaint and Tab Benoit (who were both recently featured in the impressive and important IMAX documentary “Hurricane on the Bayou”) this year’s Festival will also host such visiting dignitaries as George Thoroughgood, Bonnie Raitt, Steely Dan, Ludacris, Norah Jones, and an even newer New Edition. “A lot of the artists who come from other places may not have that soul connection,” says Edwards, “but they have all played here before and have helped the Festival gain the prominence it has. So it’s all good!”
“It is overwhelming how our musical family has rallied to our cause,” says Festival producer Quint Davis. “They are all committed to returning to be a part of the renewal of our spirit.”
With all this, it is hard to believe that tickets are only $45 ($35 if purchased ahead of time). For those who wish to make their Fest experience extra special, Big Chief VIP packages offer admission, program guides, access to special viewing areas (most of which offer their own private Southern “comfort stations”), and, perhaps most importantly, access to an air-conditioned lounge with its own restrooms.
“The Festival is a celebration of Louisiana culture,” Edwards explains. “We want to let people know that New Orleans is back and that the culture is back, and that they can come have a great time in a great city.”
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