Wednesday, February 17, 2016

A Toast to New Orleans: Kinky Boots/Politics with a Punch/ House of Broel and more

Darlings, wishing all of you a belated Happy Valentine's Day.
Margarita Bergen's photo.

This past week was very mellow compared to the earlier weeks that kept me going from one Mardi Gras festivity to another.

This week is going to be a different story, however. Now that Mardi Gras is over, the cultural season is back in full swing again and I am “kicking it off” with some “Kinky Boots!” I’ve been anxiously looking forward to next Tuesday’s opening night of the multi-award-winning touring Broadway production by that name at the Saenger Theatre.  My darling friend and editorDean Shapiro interviewed the lead actor in the show, Adam Kaplan, and wrote a lovely article for the  Advocate at this link: http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/beaucoup/14721069-171/guys-in-stilettos-kick-up-their-heels-in-saengers-kinky-boots. Featuring all-original music written by Cyndi Lauper, it promises to be a great show!

On Wednesday, February 17 at 10 a.m., at Jackson Square, you can join French Quarter Festivals, Inc., New Orleans tourism officials and invited guests for 2016's first French Quarter Festival Presented by Chevron press conference. FQF officials will announce exciting details about the April 7-10 festival, including the lineup and this year’s poster artist. The press conference will feature live entertainment from Grammy Award-winning Zydeco accordionist Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band. Refreshments will be provided. 

For more information contact Rebecca Sell at (504) 522-5730 or email rebecca@fqfi.org. Visit the French Quarter Festivals, Inc. website at www.fqfi.org for more information about the organization.
   
That evening, February 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Palace Café's Black Duck Bar is the New Orleans Rum Society Launch Party.The New Orleans Rum Society's first event will be a cocktail evening with author and rum expert, Wayne Curtis. Cocktails and small plates will be served. During a tasting, guests will be guided through the three styles of rum (Spanish, French and British) and learn an overview of the colorful history of the spirit from Mr. Curtis.

Signed versions of Curtis' book, And a Bottle of Rum: A History of the New World in Ten Cocktails, will be available for purchase. $35 plus tax and gratuity .Reservations at (504) 523-1661.
You are invited to join the Friends of Longue Vue at the 2016 Essence of Style Design Symposium featuring author and interior designer Suzanne Rheinstein. This year's event starts with a Designer Reception at a private residence on Feb. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. Guests can mingle with Suzanne and interior design enthusiasts while enjoying libations and delicious fare.

On Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Suzanne will share her design philosophy of "fewer things, but better things" and discuss her new book Rooms for Living: A Style for Today with Things from the Past. Following the talk, enjoy a fabulous three-course lunch, eclectic silent auction and book signing at The Audubon Tea Room.

Tickets to the Designer Reception are $125. Tickets to the Design Symposium luncheon are $100 for members and $125 for nonmembers. For more information, contact Jen Gick at (504) 293-4723.


On Thursday, February 18, The Consulate of Mexico in New Orleans is pleased to present the Opening Reception at 6:00 p.m. of the Art Exhibition “ORIGINS” by Mexican Artist Ganthaus at 901 Convention Center Blvd, Suite 118. The entrance of the Gallery is through Andrew Higgins Drive. (Complimentary parking at the Fulton Garage with validated ticket at the Gallery door.)
 That night, my darling friend Jeff Crouere is hosting his J a unforgettable edition of Politics  with a Punch at 8 p.m.It will be held at the beautiful Eiffel Society, 2040 St. Charles Avenue. This next event will be another very special show as we celebrate the Kickoff to Election Year 2016!    See the calendar below for the details .
On Saturday, I have been invited to participate in the House of Broel Foundation’s Fabulous 50th Anniversary Gala. It will take place on Saturday, February 20 at 7 p.m. at House of Broel's Victorian Mansion, 2220 St Charles Avenue. HostessBonnie Broel has a very creatively themed event planned around the great stars of Hollywood’s heyday and it’s going to be a lot of fun, as well as a fundraiser for the mansion and the museum it houses.

And, if you love to laugh and don’t mind driving over to the West Bank, you need to come see the Jefferson Performing Arts Society’s production of The Amorous Ambassador, opening this weekend at Teatro Wego in Westwego. Directed by “Uncle Wayne” Daigrepont and starring eight talented (and funny!) actors, this madcap comedy of errors will have you rolling on the floor. At least, that’s what I heard, anyway . . . The show runs for three straight weekends, offering evening performances and Sunday matinees.
 Congratulations to England-born John Cleary: Jon Cleary, Buddy Guy win at Grammys
Well darlings, I am sure I am going to have plenty of opportunities to toast to my adopted city in the weeks to come so enjoy your week.
===================================================================
Last Saturday, I did not make it to the New Orleans' first screening of 'Of Mind and Music' at the Zeitgeist Multi-Disciplinary Arts Center of OF MIND AND MUSIC at -US indie film shot and set in New Orleans 
But my darling friend Dr Nicolas Bazan, who wrote the book and produced the film sent me this note and photos
. "we all miss you. There was a large and very interested crowd. Please see photos. Brent Caballero (Casting Director and Producer) ,Richie Adams ( D...
See More
Margarita Bergen's photo.

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NEW ORLEANS RUM SOCIETY LAUNCH PARTY
 
 
cocktail evening with author and rum expert, Wayne Curtis.
 
February 17 th  6:30pm
at Palace Café's Black Duck Bar
 Cocktails and small plates will be served
 
During a tasting, guests will be guided through the three styles of rum (Spanish, French and British) and learn an overview of the colorful history of the spirit from expert Wayne Curtis. 
 
Signed versions of Curtis' book And a Bottle of Rum: A History of the New World in Ten Cocktails, will be available for purchase.
 
MENU
Smoked Salmon Galette
Gruyere Gougeres
Goose Rillette on Bellegarde baguette
Garlic Gulf Shrimp with Valencia Rice
Brie & Leek Fondue with Bellegarde baguette, apples, roasted fingerling potatoes
Pot Roast Slider with Colman's mustard & pickled cabbage
  
 
$35 plus tax and gratuity 
Reservations: 504.523.1661

Politics with a Punch,
 
Join us on Thursday February 18 for another unforgettable edition of Politics with a Punch, our local version of “Politically Incorrect.”
It will be held at the beautiful Eiffel Society, 2040 St. Charles Avenue.  It 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.
 
The doors open at 6 p.m. for Punch Happy Hour as the Eiffel Society bar will offer a delicious menu of specialty drinks for our patrons. As an added treat, dining will be available for our patrons at the Eiffel Society. After our event ends, we invite you to stay with us for cocktails and socializing with our fellow patrons and panelists.
 
Our show will begin at 8:00 p.m. As usual, we have picked an outstanding panel with some of our favorite all-stars plus some exciting newcomers. Check out our exceptional line-up of celebrities for this New Orleans POLITICAL COMEDY TRADITION: 
 
  • Kevin BeltonStar of PBS Show "New Orleans Cooking with Kevin Belton"   
  • Tony BentleyStar of "The Big Short" and "Twelve Years a Slave"   
  • Joseph CaoFormer U.S. Congressman; Candidate for U.S. Senate  
  • Woody Jenkins, Chairman of Donald Trump LA Campaign
  • Bernie Pinsonat, Pollster & Political Consultant    
  • J.D. Sledge, Outstanding Comedian; Local and National Headliner 
  • Roger Villere, Chairman, Louisiana Republican Party
  • Rachel Wulff, Anchor/Reporter, WWL-TV Channel 4
Tickets are only $20.00 per person/$35.00 per couple.
 
If you would like to take advantage of this opportunity, please RSVP by sending me an e-mail reply. You can also purchase tickets in advance at a discounted price ($15.00 per person/$25.00 per couple) on-line at our website:POLITICS WITH A PUNCH ONLINE TICKET STORE


Please visit the Cultural Blog of the Consulate of Mexico:
http://culturalagendaoftheconsulateofmexico.blogspot.com/
View this email in your browser
The Consulate of Mexico in New Orleans is pleased to present 
the Art Exhibition


“ORIGINS”

by Mexican Artist Ganthaus

Opening Reception
February 18th, 2016 at 6:00 pm


901 Convention Center Blvd, Suite 118 New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
The entrance of the Gallery is through Andrew Higgins
*Complementary parking at the “Fulton Garage” with validated ticket at the
Gallery door

Arts and Activism Fundraiser for the Backstreet Cultural Museum

DATE
Thu, Feb 18, 2016
TIME
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Come out and celebrate the final days of Momentum Indumenta Costume show and support us in our final push to raise funds for the incredible, the essential Backstreet Cultural Museum with our 9th Arts and Activism Fundraiser!
The fundraiser will be held on February 18th from 6 - 9pm and will include libations and a set from Sunpie Barnes at 7pm!
$10 - $15 suggested donation. 100% of proceeds from the door and 25% of proceeds from all sales will benefit Backstreet Cultural Museum
Hope to see you there!!
 2-20-16
20

A Toast to New Orleans Feb. 11-15: A Musical Prelude To The Celebration of Easter/Kinky Boots and more

Rex Monarchs: Michael Kearney and Adelaine Goodyear


Margarita Bergen's photo.
 Darlings,

I hope you enjoyed our Carnival Season 2016. My body is feeling the aches of two weeks of Carnival 's revelry. I enjoyed it very much as you will see in the photo links.

My Mardi Gras festivities last week started on Friday, February 5, when I began my very long day at the annual Royal Sonesta's “Greasing of the Poles.” Now in its 46th year, Greasing of the Poles has earned its place in Crescent City history as a landmark experience, and is considered by many as the French Quarter's official kickoff to Mardi Gras weekend. This year's theme, “Let Them Eat King Cake” was inspired by the era of Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI. Local award-winning actor Bryan Batt served as master of ceremonies .https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153199592995870.1073742608.581200869&type=1&l=8007597066

Immediately after, I wandered through the French Quarter to have a toast to the Carnival Season at Arnaud's, Antoine's, Galatoire's and finally The Rib Room of the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel. 
It was an incredible experience seeing a lot of my friends enjoying the Carnival Season. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153199551495870.1073742607.581200869&type=1&l=c762fe5b76

On Thursday, it was time to enjoy the spectacular Hermes Ball and Supper Dance. This year’s Queen of Hermes was Her Royal Majesty, Ms. Luciana Elizabeth Bertucci and her King was Kevin Mackey.  The Theme was "The Tempest," the last play written by Shakespeare. The food and entertainment at the Supper Dance was fabulous.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153196931445870.1073742604.581200869&type=1&l=ff83b616b9
Queen and King of Hermes 2016

Friday's Before Mardi Gras Luncheon at Galatoire's is a New Orleans Experience that I enjoyed tremendously. The people seated in the first floor of the restaurant had bought the seats and tables at the annual auction of Galatoire's Tables for the Friday before Galatoire's. The average seat went for about $500 for person. The proceeds from the auction benefit the Galatoire Foundation, New Orleans Mission and Boys Hope Girls Hope Greater New Orleans Chapter.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153199379085870.1073742606.581200869&type=1&l=0af17aeb44

After a short nap, I was ready to continue my festivities and this time, it was at the lovely annual Masked Ball at Kevin Kelly's palatial mansion on St. Charles Avenue.  This year's theme was "A Monumental Affair." Guests were treated to delicious cuisine from his award -winning restaurant at Houmas House and were invited to the spacious balcony to see the passing parade of the Krewe of Hermes and the Krewe D'Etat. Kevin knows my taste in champagne so I was in heaven, sipping Veuve Clicquot. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?et=a.10153199240935870.1073742605.581200869&type=1&l=ef2a19340e

Saturday and Sunday, I stayed away from the parades and concentrated on working at Casell-Bergen Gallery and resting for the festivities on Monday and Tuesday.
Orpheuscapade 2016 at the Ernest Morial Convention Center was spectacular This year's theme was "The Wizard Bestiary" and the Grand Marshal was Nathan Fillion who rode along with Harry Connick Jr. The krewe was founded in 1993 by Harry Connick Jr., Harry Connick Sr. and Sonny Borey who is the Captain and Derek Franklin is the artist director. .Talented drag queen Bianca Del Rio was the Co-Emcee. As in the past it was a lot of fun. The parade, the entertainment, the food, and the setting added to making it a very memorable experience.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153204057505870.1073742609.581200869&type=1&l=3ed31826d0

On Mardi Gras Day, beautiful sunny skies greeted the revelers. I stayed in bed recuperating from Orpheuscapade and enjoying the live coverage of the Zulu and Rex parades.

After 12 p.m., Duchess Chiquita and I got into costume and headed to the French Quarter which was packed with revelers. We were invited to the balconies of the Royal Sonesta Hotel and entertainer Chris Owens
A fun photo by Craig Kraemer
craigk@kraemeradvertising.com


I didn't stay too long because I was looking forward to the pageantry of the annual Rex and Comus balls. Rex and Comus Grand Balls were as expected - spectacular. You will recognize a lot of my friends in these photos. I could not take picture at the Comus Ball. So enjoy them

Darlings, Carnival 2016 has come and gone and the Lent Season has begun!
In case you wonder, I haven't confirmed where and when  my next Round Table Luncheon will be . I am working to have it at some of our prestige restaurants so stay tuned

The third annual "Musical Prelude to the Celebration of Easter" will be presented by the Bishop Perry Center during Lent at St. Mary's Catholic Church, part of the historic Ursuline Convent complex at 1100 Chartres Street. There will be six, one-hour-long concerts on successive Thursdays through the rest of February and into the third week of March with different performers each time.

The series will kick off on Thursday, February 11 with a program of spirituals and gospel arrangements performed by well-known opera star Valerie Francis with concert pianist Wilfred Delphin. It concludes on March 17 with a program of Medieval Easter music performed by the Musica da Camera chorale and chamber ensemble.

The programs will begin promptly at 6 p.m. and are free and open to the public. Voluntary donations will be collected at the end of each program, with all monies benefiting the ministries of the Bishop Perry Center, created by the Archdiocese of New Orleans as a mission for the disadvantaged and downtown cultural resource.  The center is under the direction of
The Rev. William F. Maestri.

For the full lineup of concerts and performers, read Dean Shapiro’s article in the New Orleans Advocate’s BEAUCOUP arts and entertainment magazine this Thursday, February 11. The story is also posted online athttp://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/beaucoup/14781095-171/two-lenten-music-series-offer-respite-after-revelry.

In the same article you can read about the Jazz Vespers concert series being staged at Trinity Episcopal Church in the Garden District on six successive Sunday nights during Lent. These free, half-hour mini-concerts will kick off this Sunday, February 14, with bassist James Singleton. Other upcoming concerts will feature Ellis and Delfeayo Marsalis, pianistMatt Lemmler, clarinetist Dr. Michael White, Preservation Hall saxophonist Calvin Johnson and cabaret performer/vocalist Anais St. John.

The Jazz Vespers concerts are half an hour long, from 9-9:30 p.m. and are free and open to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted.

Have you ever wanted to explore your family's history, but didn't know where to start? In conjunction with the exhibition Pierre Joseph Landry: Patriot, Planter, Sculptor, the New Orleans Museum of Art will be hosting a genealogy night on Friday, Feb. 12. Local groups, including the City Archives at the New Orleans Public Library, will be on site to offer advice and help you get started. Here is the schedule:

·         5 - 8 pm: Art on the Spot
·         5 - 8 pm: Genealogy information with the Louisiana Creole Research Association, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Louisiana Division/City Archives at the New Orleans Public Library
·         5:30 - 8:30 pm: Music by Bruce Daigrepont
·         6:30 - 7:30 pm: Introduction to Genealogy Resources with Christina Bryant, Head Louisiana Division/City Archives and Greg Osborn, Staff Louisiana Division/City Archives

On Sunday, February 14, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church will host the first of a series of 2016 community blood drives in the French Quarter, Faubourg Marigny and Central Business District of New Orleans.  The drive will be conducted by The Blood Center in St. Jude Hall.

This week, love is in the air since Valentine’s Day is on Sunday, February 14 and many restaurants will be having special lunches and dinners. Make your reservations now and enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day with your loved one(s)!

I am anxiously looking forward to next Tuesday’s opening night of the multi-award-winning touring Broadway production ofKinky Boots at the Saenger Theatre. I’ll tell you more about it in my next column but, for a sneak preview, read the article in today’s Advocate at this link: http://www.theneworleansadvocate.com/beaucoup/14721069-171/guys-in-stilettos-kick-up-their-heels-in-saengers-kinky-boots.

Enjoy your week - it is your to be!
link February 11
http://conta.cc/1Tac916
LaFete News
Editor / Publisher: Frank Stansbury
lafete11@att.net
504-450-1955
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Historic St. Mary's Catholic Church
A Free, Public Concert Series for Lent
Thursdays, 6 p. m.,
February 11 - March 17, 2016
Presented by The Bishop Perry Center
1941 Daupine Street, New Orleans, LA 70116
For Details: 504-227-3272 or faulkhouse@aol.com 

A Musical Prelude To The Celebration of Easter 
Thursday, February 11, 2016
St. Mary's Catholic Church, 1116 Chartres St., New Orleans, Louisiana 
Presented by: 
The Bishop Perry Center, The Rev. William F. Maestri, Director
The Cathedral - Basilica of St. Louis King of France and The Archdiocese of New Orleans

In a Salute to Leontyne Price
La Vergine degli'angeli (La Forza del Destino) Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901)
Valerie Francis
Priest's Chorus
Troy Poplous, Timothy Ray, Roland Bennett, Melvin Harrison, James Rodrigue, Myron Hartford, Mark Thomas,
and The Sinfonia Singers of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity for Men in Music, Nicholls State University.
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Friday Nights at NOMA: Genealogy Night
February 12 at 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Have you ever wanted to explore your family's history, but didn't know where to start? In conjunction with the exhibition Pierre Joseph Landry: Patriot, Planter, Sculptor, NOMA will be hosting a genealogy night. Local groups, including the City Archives at the New Orleans Public Library, will be on site to offer advice and help you get started. Enjoy live music, art activities, and additional programs. 
  • 5 - 8 pm: Art on the Spot
  • 5 - 8 pm: Genealogy information with the Louisiana Creole Research Association, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Louisiana Division/City Archives at the New Orleans Public Library
  • 5:30 - 8:30 pm: Music by Bruce Daigrepont
  • 6:30 - 7:30 pm: Introduction to Genealogy Resources with Christina Bryant, Head Louisiana Division/City Archives and Greg Osborn, Staff Louisiana Division/City Archives (This talk will introduce beginners to resources available for genealogy research.  The discussion will focus primarily on resources available from the Louisiana Division/City Archives at the New Orleans Public Library.)
 
Pierre Joseph Landry: Patriot, Planter, Sculptor is jointly organized by the Louisiana State Museum and the New Orleans Museum of Art. Related programs are funded under a grant from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The opinions expressed in this program do not necessarily represent the views of either the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.
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Back by popular demand!
Among the rites of Carnival is the annual run of ... And The Ball and All, the Ricky Graham-penned comedy
about the Mystic Krewe of Terpsichore. The Ball debuted in 1995 (the year in which it's set) and had a long initial run. The outrageous, affectionate chronicle of y'at social custom must be imbued with immortal energies, because it keeps coming back and audiences still love it.    
And The Ball & All
3 shows only!
Feb  12, 13, 
14 (sold out) 
 

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts - 325 Minor Street - Kenner, LA  70062
(504) 461-9475
info@rivertowntheaters.com
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  • 02:00 PM
  • Panel Discussion
     
    02:00 PM - 04:00 PM


    Panel Discussion for Michael Meads: Bent, Not Broken. Panelists will include Michael Meads, artist; Wayne Phillips, Curator of Costumes and Textiles and Curator of Carnival Collections, Louisiana State Museum; John d'Addario, writer and arts educator; and Bradley Sumrall, Curator of the Collection, Ogden Museum of Southern Art.
  • Pu t in your calendar: 
2-20-16