Darlings
Greetings from the Emerald Coast where I came to spend a very brief sojourn with my brother Lorenzo Bergen at his time share condo in Destin, Florida.
Before I left for my brief holiday, I had a very busy social calendar that included the delicious Krewe of Cork Luncheon at Muriels ( Krewe of CorK November Luncheon ), followed that evening by the exquisite 2015 French Quarter Citizens' Progressive Dining Experience. There were three beautiful French Quarter homes where guests enjoyed appetizers and libations. The evening concluded at the Grand Ballroom of the Bourbon Orleans Hotel where many well known restaurants were serving their signature dishes, Entertainment was by vocalist Phillip Manuel.
2015 French Quarter Citizens' Progressive Dining Experience.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153047355750870.1073742552.581200869&type=1&l=6407be4070
I concluded my week by attending, on a rainy night, the always-fun fundraiser for the Louisiana SPCA's Howling Success at the Hyatt. The Co-Chairs included Allison Shapiro, Marvin F. Andrade and McKenzie Lovelace Coco who together created a magical evening of fabulous food from Sucre, Katie's Restaurant, Locally Preserved, Louisiana Pizza Kitchen, Galatoire's , Maya and Krispy Kruchy Chicken and many others . Entertainment was by Anais St. John and the Wise Guys.
.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153049172115870.1073742553.581200869&type=1&l=5edb52f76e
Darlings, when I was putting together my calendar for the month of November and especially for this week, I realized that an old spirited diva like me needed not only clones but also some time to rest and relax.
Well, unfortunately clones are not available to me and that is sad because this Friday, I would like to not just be at the New Orleans Opera presentation of “Die Fledermaus,” but also at the annual NOMA's Odyssey Ball, the Emeril Lagasse Foundation's Boudin, Bourbon and Beer event, and the “Moonlight and Miracles,” gala benefiting the Ochsner Cancer Institute.
Darlings, as I finishing writing this blog, I just learned the devastating news that my darling friend Allen Toussaint has died while in tour in Spain. I have adored him and have cultivated his friendship for many years. I had the pleasure of joining him and his musical entourage at the Montreaux Jazz Festival many years ago, He will be missed but we are blessed with his rich musical legacy!
My deepest sympathy to his beloved family. http://www.wwltv.com/story/news/2015/11/10/allen-toussaint/75500982/
These are the last photos that I took of Allen- the first one was taken at the Satchmo Festival 2015 and the other was taken at Arnauld's
I will be returning from Destin just in time to attend, on Wednesday, the 2nd Annual New Orleans Mission Gala at the National WW II Museum."Honoring Our Heroes," the second annual gala benefiting the New Orleans Mission is Nov. 11, 7-10 p.m., at the National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St. Dinner, entertainment, and a silent auction featuring hotel stays, autographed shoes of New Orleans Saint running back Mark Ingram and a George Rodrigue silkscreen print depicting Drew Brees and the Blue Dog highlight the event.
Ticket packages are available at www.neworleansmission.org. Proceeds benefit the six-million dollar renovation project underway at the 100 year-old facility housing the New Orleans Mission, 1134 Baronne St.
I have also been invited to preview WYES’ latest documentary from producer and narrator Peggy Scott Laborde. The documentary, NEW ORLEANS AND THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER, explores the unique relationship that exists between New Orleans and the body of water on which it was founded. The one-hour documentary premieres on Wednesday, November 18 at 7:00 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on WYES-TV/Channel 12.
The program features a combination of rare photos and films, along with present-day footage. Viewers will enjoy hearing stories from W. James Amoss, Jr., Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes, John Barry, Angelo Brocato III, Richard Campanella, Jacquelyn Clarkson, Clarke “Doc” Hawley, Dee Hurtt, Gary LaGrange, Judge Edwin Lombard, Keith Marshall, Ben Sandmel, Nick Spitzer and Allen Toussaint.
On Thursday, among the many soirees that I look forward to attending is the always fun Politics with a Punch with a stellar cast (see calendar for details).
On Friday, I already described all the fabulous events that have been scheduled. On Saturday, I am looking forward to attending the Touro Infirmary Foundation Gala at Mardi Gras World.
Last week I missed going to see Irma Thomas in her namesake show, “Simply Irma,” at the Anthony Bean Community Theater. I am trying very hard to see when I could catch it. Friends of mine who have seen it say it is really good. She is doing two more shows this weekend; not to be missed!
Round Table Luncheon Salutes New Orleans Authors on Wed. November 18 at Noon at Antoine’s
Darlings, I hope you have save the date for the upcoming literary Round Table Luncheon on Wednesday, November 18 at noon at Antoine's.
Hosted by yours truly, the Round Table features exciting guest speakers, lively entertainment, delicious cuisine, and, of course, plenty of champagne. Grab your friends and co-workers and plan to attend the upcoming luncheon.
During this month’s Round Table Luncheon, guests will be able to meet authors and learn about exciting new New Orleans-focused books and will be able to buy their books - a perfect time before Christmas.
New Orleans authors includes Peggy Scott Laborde and Judi Bottoni discussing their new book, "New Orleans Mardi Gras Moments"; photographer Cheryl Gerber discussing her new book, “New Orleans: Life and Death in the Big Easy”; Kerri McCaffety discussing her new book "New Orleans at Night"; author Poppy Tooker discussing "The Tujague's Cookbook: Creole Recipes and Lore in the Grand New Orleans Tradition”; and author John Pope discussing his new book “Getting Off at Elysian Fields” which is a collection of New Orleans’ people’s obituaries. Live entertainment will be provided by pianist Jim Walpole and winner of Gambit's Best Actress in a Musical, Meredith Long. The luncheon will include a delicious three-course menu/ champagne and wine. $50 inclusive with advance reservations or $55 at the door. For reservations call Margarita Bergen at 504-495-9181. Cash or checks preferred.
And, before it ends on Friday, please be sure to catch what’s left of the Birdfoot Festival’s First Residency Program. This past weekend they brought in the talented young chamber musicians from Yale University’s visiting fellows program, The Argus Quartet. If you work downtown or feel like making the trip in, you can hear them in a free, half-hour concert in the lobby of the Pan-American Life Building (601 Poydras Street at St. Charles Ave.) on Tuesday from 12:15-12:45 p.m. But, if you miss this, you can still catch them on Thursday night, Nov. 12, at Café Istanbul and at the Marigny Opera House on Friday the 13th.
For the best in chamber music, this is another one of those “not-to-be-missed” occasions! Read more about The Argus Quartet in the New Orleans Advocate http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/beaucoup/13585003-171/argus-quartet-a-treat-for
Have a safe week and save some energy for next week.
Calendar of events
November 10Bridge House/Grace House'sCelebrity Waiters IX
This event will feature a delicious lunch with local celebrities as waiters and a silent auction. Tickets: $75
Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Ave.- 821-7134 |
Wednesday, November 11
Join Bon Operatit! for a FREE concert:
"A Cornucopia of Music"
Fill up with a bountiful selection of your favorite Bon Operatit!
arrangements from the theatrical and operatic stages.
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Wednesday, November 11 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
at the Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter
541 Bourbon Street
$5.00 valet parking at the hotel
To reserve a table call (504) 524-7611 ext 146
For more information visit
www.BonOperatit.com or call (504) 232-1046
"A Cornucopia of Music"
Fill up with a bountiful selection of your favorite Bon Operatit!
arrangements from the theatrical and operatic stages.
.
Wednesday, November 11 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
at the Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter
541 Bourbon Street
$5.00 valet parking at the hotel
To reserve a table call (504) 524-7611 ext 146
For more information visit
www.BonOperatit.com or call (504) 232-1046
NOVEMBER 11-
"Honoring Our Heroes," the second annual gala benefiting the New Orleans Mission is Nov. 11, 7-10 p.m., at the National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St. Dinner, entertainment, and a silent auction featuring hotel stays, autographed shoes of New Orleans Saint running back Mark Ingram and a George Rodrigue silkscreen print depicting Drew Brees and the Blue Dog highlight the event.
Ticket packages are available at www.neworleansmission.org. Proceeds benefit the six-million dollar renovation project underway at the 100 year-old facility housing the New Orleans Mission, 1134 Baronne St.
November 12
Stake Out for Justice Luncheon
Benefits: The New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation
Event Info: The 20th anniversary celebration will honor the members of the New Orleans Police Department who have served with honor and distinction.
Tickets: $150; $2,500 per reserved table
Location: Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, Grand Ballroom, 500 Canal St.
Contact: 558-9944
Event Info: The 20th anniversary celebration will honor the members of the New Orleans Police Department who have served with honor and distinction.
Tickets: $150; $2,500 per reserved table
Location: Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, Grand Ballroom, 500 Canal St.
Contact: 558-9944
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POLITICS WITH A PUNCH THURSDAY NOVEMBER 12
GOVERNOR'S ELECTION SHOW
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Doors Open at 6 p.m.; Show Begins at 8 p.m.;
Eiffel Society ; 2040 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans
Be sure to arrive early to enjoy cocktails, dinner and musical entertainment
at the exquisite Eiffel Society. Valet Parking is provided.
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Politics with a Punch
is our local version of "Politically Incorrect." It started in 2002 and after more than 100 shows and 13 years, it has become a local political tradition. The show is jointly produced with Steve Sabludowsky of Bayoubuzz.com and it has grown into quite a success story. Punch is a fast-paced, free-wheeling, no-holds barred discussion of what is happening in our city, state and nation. We place a premium on having a good time and expect plenty of laughs as we discuss the controversies and the outrageous antics of our local leaders and scoundrels.
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As usual, we have picked an outstanding panel for Thursday night with some of our favorite all-stars plus some exciting newcomers. This program will be a very special edition of Politics with a Punch, our Governor's Election Show.
Check out the exceptional line-up of celebrities that have been selected for this New Orleans Political Comedy Tradition:
Laura Badeaux
Director, LA Center for Women in Government & Business
Tee Ray Bergeron
Popular Comedian; Headliner at Clubs Across Country
Jason Berry
Investigative Journalist; Publisher of American Zombie Website
Jim Brown
Commentator & Talk Show Host; Former LA Insurance Comm.
Ron Faucheux
President, Clarus Research Group; Analyst , Author & Pollster
Rob Maness
USAF Colonel (Ret.); Founder, GatorPAC;
' 14 Senate Candidate
Jeremy White
Founder, The Red Shtick, Online Political Satire Publication
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THE ADDAMS FAMILY opens ! Performances NOVEMBER 8-22
Starring: Johnny Missakian, Trina Beck, Tracey Collins,Madison Kerth, Christian Collins,
Matt Reed, Coldin Grundmeyer, Louis Dudoussat, Carrie Black, and Alan Payne as FESTER
Rivertown Theaters to Present America's Favorite Creepy Clan
The Addams Family - A New Musical Comedy
November 8 - 22 on the Main Stage
They're Back!!! The spooky spirit of Halloween fun will continue at Rivertown Theaters with the metropolitan New Orleans premiere of the Broadway hit musical, The Addams Family, and the unforgettable and familiar cast of characters who entertained us weekly on television during the mid-sixties.
DIRECTOR: Gary Rucker - Co-artistic Director, Rivertown Theaters
Show Dates and Times:
Thursday Nov. 19 at 8:00 pm
Fridays Nov. 13, & 20 at 8:00 pm
Saturdays Nov. 14, & 21 at 8:00 pm
Sundays Nov.15, & 22 at 2:00 pm
Ticket prices: $40.00 Adults; $38.00 Seniors 65+;
$36.00 Students/Active Military
Corporate and Individual sponsorships, season tickets,group and military discounts are available as well. To purchase, please call the Box Office: (504) 461-9475 or (504) 468-7221 or visit www.RivertownTheaters.com
Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts is located at 325 Minor St. in the heart of Kenner's historic Rivertown district. Plenty of free parking is available on the streets around the theater
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November 13 - November 22.
7:30pm
The Theatre at St. Claude
2240 St Claude Ave, New Orleans, Louisiana 70117
A black woman's body is bound by multiple oppressions, by expectations and constructions of race, gender, and sexuality. Looking At A Broad is a solo performance piece that encounters one woman's struggles to break free of those bonds and find home within her body.
Tickets: $15 adults/ $12 students/artists/seniors
lookingatabroad.eventbrite.com
The Theatre at St. Claude, 2240 St Claude Ave, NOLA.
Friday - Sunday at 7:30 PM
November 6 - November 22
Thursday, November 19
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Join us for the
2015 FACC-GC BEAUJOLAIS CELEBRATION
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Thursday, Nov. 19
from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
at
JW Marriott New Orleans
614 Canal Street
New Orleans, LA
(Valet parking complimentary during the event - enter on Common)
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| Major Sponsor VIP Party from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. |
ENTERTAINMENT
The Yat Pack
Attire: Dressy casual
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TICKETS AND TABLE PRICES
Advance Tickets: $65 members/$75 non-members
Reserved Table: $750 per table (seats 10)
At the Door: $100 per person
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https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2015-facc-gc-beaujolais-nouveau-celebration-tickets-18961774177
November 21
The New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation (NOHHF)
The 2015 Azúcar Ball
The theme of this year’s ball is “Silver Jubilee,” a black-tie silver masquerade with stilt walkers, ballet dancers and many other entertaining characters. Some of the most prominent Latin bands in the city will play, as patrons will enjoy food from some of New Orleans’ finest restaurants.
Tickets: $75-$250
Location: Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Ave.
Contact: 636-0107
Tickets: $75-$250
Location: Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Ave.
Contact: 636-0107
