nola LIVE your everything LIVE guide
Summer 2013
t i m r e K f ins Ruf This issue
Cyril Neville Johnny V. Papa Grows Funk
Summer Festivals + Recipes
SUMMER
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CONTENTS/ PUBLISHER’S NOTE
LIVE
your everything LIVE guide
NolaLIVE Magazine www.nolaliveguide.com, digital edition/www.issuu.com/nolalive. 504.327.7687
Summer 2013
Publisher, Editor-in-Chief & Creative Director M. Jeanne Roberson editor@nolaliveguide.com
Contributors Abigail Levner abigail@nolaliveguide.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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Victoria Antin victoria@nolaliveguide.com
Jessica Thomas jessica@nolaliveguide.com
Jennifer McGarry
COVER STORY
We Partyin' with Kermit Ruffins
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jennifer@nolaliveguide.com
Maria Shaw Lawson maria@nolaliveguide.com
Samantha Hilsenrod
samantha@nolaliveguide.com
Jerry Moran
jerry@nolaliveguide.com
Karen Lozinski
Karen@nolaliveguide.com
Photographers Jerry Moran www.nativeorleanian.com
Jack Pollack
www.jpollackoriginals.com
UP CLOSE
Katarina Boudreaux 7 Papa Grows Funk’s Final Performance 16 Jazz Fest 2013 Recap with Jerry Moran 28
COMEDIAN SHOWCASE
M. Jeanne Roberson
Creative Consultant Ken Jones www.jonescomedia.com
Advertising Sales Lisa Saucier lisa@nolaliveguide.com
Distribution Impact Media Group, LLC. 504-327-7687
NolaLIVE! is printed monthly. Our webside is www.nolaliveguide.com, and our digital edition can be found on www.issuu.com/nolalive. For subscription information please call 504.327.7687 For advertising information, please contact Impact Media Group, LLC. at 504-327-7687 or 713.PR.GROUP (774.7687)
Publisher’s Note So our second issue is here, and we are very excited to have Kermit Ruffins on our cover. He was a delight to work with, and he, along with Basin Street Records President Mark Samuels have been so very helpful with spreading the word of our magazine. NolaLIVE has gained a lot of support and popularity since the Dr. John debut, thanks to our growing list of supporters and our weekly table/booth at Friends of Louis Armstrong Park’s Jazz in the Park series. You should stop by and visit our table this summer! You know, everyone is always saying how “slow” New Orleans gets during summertime. Well, according to our summer listings, I beg to differ. There are so many concerts and events around here that it would be nearly impossible to not just want to get out and enjoy what our city has to offer! Aside from Jazz in the Park, there’s Wednesdays at the Point (which is a quick and free ferry ride from the CBD), Thursdays at Twilight @ The Botanical Garden, and so many festivals! Whatever you may find yourself getting into, we’d absolutely love if you could Tweet, Instagram, or post to our Facebook. We still have the #WinitWednesday promotion going, in which every follower has the chance to win tickets, certificates, and autographed items each week. We’d absolutely love to be included in your summer plans! Enjoy yourselves out there, and thanks again for supporting NolaLIVE!
M. Jeanne Roberson Publisher + Editor-in-Chief + Creative Director 4 | nola
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nolaliveguide.com and issuu.com/nolalive
FAMILY LIFE
Johnny Vidacovich and Cyril Neville
NOLA THINGS
Jazz In The Park LIVE Challenge Signature Drink Recipes Le Petit Theatre Reopens!
SUMMER FESTIVAL GUIDE
26
4TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS
27
HOLLYWOOD NOLA News & Casting Calls
23
HOROSCOPES
24
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Magazine is now Hiring! Journalists Photographers Marketing Representatives Media Advertising Sales Interns
Please email your resume to jobs@nolaliveguide.com www.nolaliveguide.com
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NOLA PEOPLE
a n i r a t a K x u a e r d u Bo Musician + Dancer + Poet
Current Album Mistral
How she entertains out of town guests I love the sculpture garden at City Park, walking around Oak Street, Magazine Street, the Irish Channel.
What makes New Orleans so unique?
There’s a magical joie de vivre - a celebration of life - in the hearts of the city's inhabitants, a beautiful melding of culture and music and people.
Strangest experience as an Orleanian
Photography Credit: James Demaria
I was driving to Maple Street Bar on a Sunday for the poetry reading the first week I lived here, and I came to a dead stop. I got out of the car, and asked what was going on, and the police officer said I may as well as just stay on out of the car and watch as there was a second line parade coming. I did - it was a lovely, random introduction to the city.
Favorite local food Beignets, hands down.
WHERE TO FIND HER: Tuesday Mornings at Oak Street CafĂŠ. www.katarinaboudreaux.com
www.nolaliveguide.com
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Performing Arts • Concerts • General Events • Family
June/July 2013
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
LIST OF VENUES: Allways Lounge and Theater 218-5778 Anthony Bean Theater 862-7529 Harrahs 533-6000 House of Blues 310-4999 Joy Theater 528-9569 Mahalia Jackson Theater 287-0351 Mid-City Theater 488-1460 Rock N’Bowl 861-1700 The Shadowbox Theater 298-8676
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Southern Repertory Theater 522-6545 Tipitina’s 895-8477 UNO Lakefront Arena 281-7171 Wednesdays on the Point (Algiers Ferry Landing @ The Levee) Contemporary Arts Canter 528-3805 Le Petit Theatre 522-2081 Old U.S. Mint 568-6993 Marigny Opera House 948-9998
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Café Istanbul – UPSTAIRS: the Musical, 8pm Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 3pm Shadowbox – Clybourne Park, 8pm Mid-City – Running with Scissors’ “Hell’s Belles,” 6pm Lakefront – T.I. & The Future 8pm
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Café Istanbul – UPSTAIRS: the Musical, 8pm Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 8pm
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Tips – Josh Ritter 8pm
Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 3pm Lakefront – American Idol Live 7:30pm HOB – Cyndi Lauper 8pm
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Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 8pm
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Rock N Bowl – Geno Delafose, 8:30 pm
Rock N Bowl– The Yat Pack, 8:30 pm Wednesdays on the Point – Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes, Egg Yolk Jubilee + Diablo Horns
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10
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CAC – Freedom, 2pm Mahalia – Africa UMOJA, 2 pm HOB – Kirk Franklin's Gospel Brunch 10am Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
21 CAC – Freedom, 2pm Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 3 pm HOB – Kirk Franklin's Gospel Brunch 10am Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
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Café Istanbul, Anything Goes! 7 pm Mahalia Jackson, UMOJA Rehearsal & Load-In, 12 am; Africa UMOJA, 8 pm
HOB – Kirk Franklin's Gospel Brunch 10am
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CAC – Freedom (Preview), 7:30pm Mahalia Jackson, UMOJA Rehearsal & Load-In, 12 am; Africa UMOJA, 8 pm Allways Lounge and Theatre, Esoterotica Readings “Sexmas in July,” 8 pm Rock N’Bowl – Jerry Embree 8:30 pm Wednesdays on the Point – The Yat Pack, DaRockits Mahalia – Africa Umoja 8pm
17 Submit your events to events@nolaliveguide.com
CAC – Debauchery, 7:30pm Mahalia Jackson, Robert Plant presents Sensational Space Shifters, 8 pm Rock N Bowl – Swing A Roux, 8:30 pm HOB – Pentatonix 7pm Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm Wednesdays on the Point – Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys , The New Orleans Rhythm Devils
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Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 8 pm
Café Istanbul, Literary Speaking at 7 pm Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 8 pm
Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 8 pm Rock N Bowl – Swing Night, 8:30 pm
CALENDAR OF EVENTS THURSDAY
FRIDAY
Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 8pm Stand-Up, 7:30 and 9:30
SATURDAY
Café Istanbul – UPSTAIRS: the Musical, 8pm Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 8pm Allways – Esoterotica Readings, 7pm Queerlesque, 11pm Shadowbox – Clybourne Park, 8pm Mid-City – Running with Scissors’ “Hell’s Belles,” 8pm Tips – Papa Mali, Mississippi Rail Company Joy – Ellis Marsalis, Harold Battiste, James Black, Irvin Mayfield, New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, George Rodrigue
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June/July 2013
Allways – BreakOUT: Werk for Good (fashion show), 10pm Café Istanbul – UPSTAIRS: the Musical, 8pm Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 8pm Shadowbox – Clybourne Park, 8pm Mid-City – Running with Scissors’ “Hell’s Belles,” 8pm
5 Happy 4th of July! See all celebrations on Page 27
Tuesdays
Comedy Beast-Howlin’ Wolf Den 8:30PM (504) 522-9653 Comedy Catastrophe-Lost Love Lounge 9:00PM, (504) 944-0099 Give ‘Em The Light Open Mic Comedy Show-House of Blues 8:00PM (504) 310-4999
Wednesdays Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 8pm Tips – Papa Grows Funk Final Performance
Anthony Bean – Sanctified, 8pm HOB – Bustout Burlesque Tips – Shamarr Allen and the Underdawgs,Treme Funktet
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Live Comedy Guide
Corey Mack’s C-4 Comedy NightEiffel Society 8:30PM (504) 525-2951 Think You’re Funny? Comedy Showcase-Carrollton Station 9:00PM (504) 865-9190
Thursdays
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Rock N Bowl – Amanda Shaw, Deacon John, 9:00 pm Tips – Gravity A, Khris Royal and Dark Matter
Comedy Night-Grit’s Bar 9:00PM (504) 899-9211 Laugh & Sip-Therapy Wine Lounge 8:00 PM (504) 784-0054 Lights Up-The New Movement 9:00PM www.newmovementtheater.com/ new-orleans Allstar Comedy Revue House of Blues Voodoo Garden 8:00PM (504) 310-4999 Comedy Gumbeaux-Howlin’ Wolf Den 8:00PM (504) 522-9653
Fridays
11 CAC – Freedom (Preview), 7:30pm Lights Up!, 9pm Rock N Bowl – Geno Delafose, 8:30 pm Mahalia – Africa Umoja 8pm
12 CAC – Freedom (Preview), 7:30pm Rock N Bowl – The Boogie Men, 9:30 pm Tips – James Andrews & The Crescent City Allstars, Brassaholics Mahalia – Africa Umoja 8pm
13 CAC – Freedom (Opening night), 7:30pm Mahalia – Africa Umoja 8pm Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
The Franchise-The New Movement 10:30PM www.newmovementtheater.com/ new-orleans Fear & Loathing with God’s Been Drinking-La Nuit Comedy Theater 8:30PM (504) 231-7011 Friday Night Stand Up Open Mic-La Nuit Comedy Theater 10:30PM (504) 231-7011
Saturdays
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CAC – Freedom, 7:30pm Le Petit Theatre, Love, Loss and What I Wore, 8 pm Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 8 pm Rock N Bowl – Groovy 7, 9:30 pm Tips – Good Enough for Good Times, Chris Mule' and the Perpetrators Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
Harrah’s, Besh Steak Wine and Dine, 6 pm Mahalia, Sounds of New Orleans, 7 pm CAC – Freedom, 7:30pm Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 8 pm Rock N’Bowl – Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys 9:30 Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
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CAC – Freedom, 7:30pm HOB, Allstar Comedy Revue in the Voodoo Garden, 8 pm Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 8 pm Marigny Opera House, Gershwin’s Blue Monday & Dan Shore’s An Embarrassing Position, 8 pm Rock N Bowl – Zydeco Night, 8:30 pm Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
CAC – Freedom, 7:30pm Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 8 pm Marigny Opera House, Gershwin’s Blue Monday & Dan Shore’s An Embarrassing Position, 8 pm Rock N Bowl – The TopCats, 9:30 pm Tips – Stooges Brass Band Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
CAC – Freedom, 7:30pm HOB, Bust Out Burlesque, 8 pm & 10:30 pm Anthony Bean, Nu Skool/Old School, 8 pm Marigny Opera House, Gershwin’s Blue Monday & Dan Shore’s An Embarrassing Position, 8 pm Rock N Bowl – Vince Vance Legends Show Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
CAC – Freedom, 7:30pm Rock N Bowl – Horace Trahan, 8:30pm Southern Rep – Freedom 7:30pm
www.nolaliveguide.com
The Megaphone Show-The New Movement 10:30PM www.newmovementtheater.com/ new-orleans/ Brown Improv Comedy Rendon’s Inn Dugout Sports Bar & Grill 9:30PM (504) 826-5605 Comedy Sportz-La Nuit Comedy Theater 7:30PM (504) 231-7011 Saturday Night Laugh Track-La Nuit Comedy Theater 11:00PM (504) 231-7011 The Big Easy Comedy Show, Hi Ho Lounge 7PM
Sundays
Nola Comedy Hour Open Mic or Nola Comedy Showcase, Hi Ho Lounge 9PM
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NOLA THINGS
LroIVunEd Town A
TOUR TREME' Living – Breathing – Joyful History!
Mention NolaLIVE to receive $4 off
Just above french Quarter, amid the Creole Cottages and Shotgun House, walk with us and explore the historic Treme' neighborhood. Treme' is the heart and soul of New Orleans. Everything you love about our city – our food, our music, our culture – finds it's birthplace in the Treme'. Mardi Gras Indian and Skull and bone Traditions • See where Jazz was born • Visit the Birthplace of Rock & Roll • Film locations from HBO's Treme' • Rich African American History • AND MORE!!
Words by Karen Lozinski
NOLA THINGS
JAZZ in the Park Wrapping up its 3rd Jazz in the Park concert series on June 13th with a performance by Kermit Ruffins, The People United for Armstrong Park has attracted thousands to their weekly Thursday concerts. This season’s successful series featured performances from George Porter, Jr. and Bill Summers, Donald Harrison and The Congo Square Nation, James Andrews, To Be Continued Brass Band, Colin Lake, Shannon Powell, Bo Dollis and The Wild Magnolias, The Hot 8 Brass Band, Glen David Andrews, and Flow Tribe. Although the concerts are free to the public, revenues from food and crafts vendors directly benefit local business people, chefs, artisans, artists who sell their wares in Armstrong Park every week, as well as helping fuel the cultural economy of New Orleans .
The summer series begins on July 11, 2013, and runs until August 1st. Expect more stellar pair-ups of New Orleans' greatest musicians and culture-bearers that will make you glad you stayed in the city for the warmer months. For more information on the Jazz in the Park or The People United for Armstrong Park, visit armstrongpark. org facebook.com/ArmstrongPark Pictured: Glen David Andrews, James Andrews, Flow Tribe Photo Credit: The People United for Armstrong Park, Vanguard Film and Video Productions
www.nolaliveguide.com
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NOLA PEOPLE
LroIVunEd Town A
n f Be , Che ajeux s m B da ene’ ell A Terr t, Chef R a Sarr
Chef Jacques and Paige Saleun
Jeanne Roberson
Margarita Bergen and Patrick Van Hoorebeek
June, 2013 Le Gala de la Bonne Vie benefit for the National Kidney Foundation of Louisiana. Photos by Jack Pollack
E V I L 0 e $1
NOLA THINGS
g n e l l a h C
Each month our writers scour the city to f ind the best in live entertainment for up to 8 hours with a $10 budget!
Day: Wednesday Writer: Jennifer McGarry Challenge: 6 hours, $10 spent 3-4:40 pm Dr. Dee and the Medicine Man at the French Market 5-5:45 pm Ivan Neville's Dumpstafunk at Lafayette Square 6-6:50 pm Kyndra Joi and Soul Theory at VASO with a Miller Lite beer 7-7:30 pm The Tin Men at d.b.a. 8-9:15 pm Esoerotica Readings at the Allways Lounge and Theater Note: Day: Thursday Writer: M. Jeanne Roberson Challenge: 8 hours, $10 spent 5ish- 6:30 Jazz In The Park 6:45-6:55 Sat down and saw a tips-only psychic on Decatur 7:00-8:15 On Frenchmen St., fire/ pyrotechnic performers, walked through the artist marketplace, watched Tango dancers at Mojitos 8:20ish-8:30 Stopped by Balcony Music Club 8:40- 9:45 House of Blues Free Comedy Night 10:20-1:00am Soul Rebels Brass Band at Le Bon Temps Roule, $5
All venues were free, . unless notendt Money sped on tips an sodas.
House of Blues Free Comedy Thursdays, comedians pictured with audience member Jim Belushi
Suggestions? Comments? Email us- events@nolaliveguide.com
www.nolaliveguide.com
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UP CLOSE
Fathers Day with
Cyril Neville and Johnny Vidacovich Photo credit- Jerry Moran-- nativeorleanian.com
Cyril and Johnny performing in Falls Church, Va. June 2013
Cyril and Omari Neville
W
hen asked about balancing family life, Cyril responds, “It’s not easy balancing work and family. Most people just see the glamorous part of the industry, and don’t see being on the road, missing graduations and birthdays. That’s the hardest part, when you miss some of those special moments.” Omari, of the Rejected Youth Nation, says that he enjoyed touring with his father as a child and playing with the Neville Brothers at many Jazz Fests. “After our Neville Brothers shows, people’s kids would run up to him and ask for autographs,” Cyril proudly shares. Omari says the most important lesson his father instilled in him is to “simply be who you are.” Omari is the youngest of Cyril and Gaynielle Neville’s seven children.
Johnny and Laura Vidacovich
W
hen asked what he loves the most about being a dad, Johnny replies, “It makes me focused, gives me reason, gets rid of any kind of ego that might interfere with my ability to provide. It gave me a meaning in life, and taught me that it’s not all about me. It humbles you.” Laura says the most important lesson her father instilled is “how to be kind, understanding, and thoughtful. And how to take my time with myself and others.” Laura is the only child of Johnny and Deborah Vidacovich.
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By Jennifer McGarry
NOLA THINGS
Adelaide Swizzle
Café Adelaide Swizzle Stick Bar 300 Poydras Entertainment: Piano Fridays and Saturdays at 6pm Interesting fact about the bar: Signature drinks at the Swizzle Stick were produced and named by bartenders there. For example, Lucy Broussard is named after a bartender’s dog. Adelaide Swizzle: The drink's name comes from Aunt Adelaide using a swizzle stick in her drinks. Recipe: Old New Orleans amber rum Peychaud’s bitters Lime Soda Top off with 7up Cucumber wheel Lime garnish
Signature Drinks of New Orleans Vieux Carre
Carousel Bar Hotel Monteleone Interesting Fact: According to bartender Corey Ross, the Vieux Carre is a cousin of the Sazerac. Created in the 1930’s by Walter Bergeron at the Hotel Monteleone, annual site for the Tale of the Cocktails. The Carousel Bar slowly spins as the bartenders mix your drinks in a beautifully themed space. Recipe: ¾ oz. rye whiskey ¾ oz. Hennessy Cognac ¾ oz. sweet vermouth Dash Peychaud’s bitters Dash Angostaura aromatic bitters ½ tsp Benedictine liqueur Cherry for garnish www.nolaliveguide.com
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Interview by Samantha Hilsenrod
Papa Grows Funk's Finale Monday is my favorite day of the week. Not because I am a strangely masochistic individual who enjoys starting the work week once again, but because I know I will receive my weekly dose of funk. For over ten years, the incomparable Papa Grows Funk has been helping people chase those work day blues away at the Maple Leaf Bar on Oak Street each and every Monday night. However, to my great sadness, that is all about to change. The band will go on indefinite hiatus after Jazz Fest, hosting their final show on June 29th at Tipitina’s. I caught up with John “Papa” Gros (pronounced grow, like the band’s name) at Zotz Coffee shop to talk about the beginning, middle, and the end of this quintessential New Orleans party band. SH: What do each of the players in the band bring to the table? John: Everybody in this band, in their own way, is as good as it gets within this town. But besides for that, our chemistry is so right. We found that out on the first gig. We have that music chemistry, but we also have friendship chemistry. And its reaffirmed at every gig. I think that’s what really makes us a special band. It’s how we come together. That’s what a real band is all about. The sum of its parts. SH: You guys are all from really diverse backgrounds. June is from Japan. How did you all meet and start playing together? John: Well I guess you could say we all really met through the Maple Leaf. Jason Mingledorf (sax) was getting a Masters in Jazz at UNO and he would hang out at the Maple Leaf. Jelly Bean (drums) and I played together in George Porter’s band and Mark Pero (bass) and I actually knew each other since we were little kids. His parents and my parents taught school together in Baton Rogue, but I
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didn’t really take notice of him until he started playing around town in this band called Smilin’ Myron. June (guitar) moved to NOLA in ’95. He started playing with Michael Ward at the Maple Leaf and then with the Wild Magnolias. I had a friend tell me I needed to check this guy out, so I went to see him at Tips one night., He was just so incredible. I said, “I need to meet this guy,” and a mutual friend introduced us a short time later at the Maple Leaf. I was gigging around town and the Old Pointe Bar, which was our first weekly gig, asked me if I wanted to play there. I could pick whoever I wanted to play and play whatever I wanted. I decided to make it a jam, no set list, no rehearsals. We just did it. We still do it like that. SH: You guys never rehearse? That's incredible to hear! John: Well, we play a lot together. We’re always playing somewhere, touring. We play so much we really don’t need to rehearse. The only time we have rehearsed in the last 5 years is for a studio session. continued on page 30
COVER STORY
We Partyin'’ t i m r e K f ins Ruf with
Words and cover photo by M. Jeanne Roberson www.nolaliveguide.com
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Photo by Jerry Moran www.nativeorleanian.com
COVER STORY
WHERE TO FIND KERMIT: Speakeasy (Sunday, Monday), Bullet's Sports Bar (Tuesday), Vaughn's (Thursday), Blue Nile (Friday), The Little Gem Saloon (Saturdays in June)
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ith all of the buzz I’d been hearing about Speakeasy, I decided to watch Kermit Ruffins perform on a Monday night at his Treme-area restaurant. The bright reddish orange brick building on the corner of Basin and North Robertson makes it nearly impossible for a passerby to miss. The crowd was pretty light at first, at what seemed to be mostly tourists enjoying what many would consider one of the few tourist-filled “authentic” New Orleans venues around. Kermit’s visitors continuously walked up to him asking questions, taking pictures, and getting autographs. He happily obliged.
"THE SHOW (TREME) REALLY GAVE A SURGE AS FAR AS FANS AND PEOPLE WHO WOULDN'T HAVE TYPICALLY LIKED JAZZ MUSIC." - Kermit Ruffins
June 2013 / Kermit with Mark Samuels, President of Basin Street Records Photographed by Jack Pollack
COVER STORY
Around 8ish, the restaurant was just about packed. Still, with a mixture of mostly tourists, infused with an occasional local, people were dancing to the music of his trumpet alongside the house band. Every so often he’d jump on the drums, much to everyone's excitement and delight. Millions of viewers world-wide have gotten to know Kermit from his self-portrayed character on HBO’s Treme series. Since his initial appearance on the show’ first episode in 2010, Kermit says his fame as well as an overall interest in jazz music has increased noticeably.
“The Treme series really brought a lot of attention to the New Orleans sound and our culture in general,” Kermit expressed. “People come to the restaurant, excited to see in person what they’ve seen on TV over the years- they want to see if it’s for real. The show really gave a surge as far as fans and people who wouldn’t have typically liked jazz music.” With the series finale of Treme set to air this year, Kermit says the platform has opened to more filming opportunities. His upcoming projects include an unnamed television show on the Food Network. “Every Sunday morning I’m in the restaurant preparing cutting and preparing stewed rabbit, gumbo, red beans, cabbage. No one else is allowed in the kitchen, except the fry chef,” he said. In addition to serving his famous fried trout, Sunday’s visitors are able to try the frog legs, raccoon, or whichever colorful items Kermit chooses to include on the menu. With the success of his two-year-old Speakeasy Restaurant, he decided to move forward and purchase Ernie K-Doe’s world-famous Motherin-Law Lounge. The continued on page 23
www.nolaliveguide.com
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www.jonescomedia.com
Photography Mike Buck
COMEDIAN SHOWCASE
Q&A with Corey and Iina
New Orleans native Corey Mack and his wife Iina Ester have been stirring quite a buzz lately with their Live Free, Laugh Hard Comedy series. With a growing audience at Eiffel Society each Wednesday, their event features both well known and up-and-coming comedians, as well as occasional performances by burlesque dancers, spoken work poets, and musical acts. NolaLIVE interviewed the dynamic duo about their lives, on and off the stage. NL: Describe your comedy style? Iina: I’m more of a story teller, basing my comedy on my life’s experiences. Corey: My comedy is also based on my experiences, random thoughts, and whichever mood I’m in for that particular day. NL: What’s the most unexpected thing that’s happened as a result of the Live Free, Laugh Hard series? Corey: We didn’t set out to do this, so it was all unexpected. I simply wanted to perform and make people laugh so setting up my own shows was a way for me to do it. The shows have contributed to the comedy scene in New Orleans, giving comics in the region more stages to perform. NL: With running various events throughout the month, what’s your greatest challenge as a workcouple? Corey: There aren’t any major challenges. We’re both logical thinkers, so whenever we both have an idea about the same thing, we both generally go with the smarter idea. NL: What’s the best thing about working together as a couple? Iina: Getting to spend most of our time together and not having to try to schedule “us” time. Iina, who holds a PhD in Exercise Psychology and Physiology, owns Live Free, Laugh Hard Fitness. www.livefreelaughhardfitness.com Corey Mack also plays a Lenny Kravitz-ish front man for the band Peter Gun and works as a host and emcee for various events. www.coreymack.us Live Free, Laugh Hard Events- Summer 2013: Café Street Pub (Tuesdays 10:30pm) Eiffel Society (Wednesdays 8pm) Interferences Sportsbar (Wednesdays 9:30pm) Olde N'awlins Cookery (Saturdays 7pm)
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Words by Jennifer McGarry
NOLA THINGS
Le Petit Theatre Reopens!
L
e Petit Theatre will have its Lagniappe event on July 19th with “Love, Loss, and What I Wore” by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron.
In an interview with Le Petit’s new Executive Director, Cassie Steck Worley, we asked why the 97-year-old theater was closed in late 2010. Worley explained, “What was happening here is what was happening all over the country with art organizations. Many organizations were going under and for Le Petit it was crushing debt.” According to Worley, the re-opening took some persuasion. There was opposition that Dickie Brennan purchasing part of the building would result in the loss of more traditional elements of the historic theater. However, since opponents have seen the work underway, they now regard it as a “win-win situation,” as Worley described their favorable reaction. “This is not dinner theatre. Patrons can enjoy dinner or a performance. Intermission affords theatre-goers a chance to grab a cocktail or something to eat,” she said. The estimated $1.5 million in improvements is considered more of a restoration than a renovation. Structural improvements have been made to the bathrooms and dressing rooms as well as making the building ADA compliant. More significant, according to Worley, is the board’s desire to keep the traditional New Orleans feel of the building. Le Petit already shows a dynamic come-back despite the approaching summer slowdown.
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Within one month, season ticket sales for the 362-seat theater have reached 600 subscriptions. In comparison, four years ago, season ticket sales were at 300. Worley pointed out that New Orleans anticipates a growth in theatres. “In addition to Le Petit Theatre, the Joy and Saenger promise to provide the 40-and-under crowd, working downtown, with more live (theater) entertainment opportunities,” she said. In maintaining high quality productions, Le Petit’s plans include community outreach and involvement. Having taught theater for 25 years, Worley is excited about the educational programs available at Le Petit. For example, schools without arts programs will be taught drama at Le Petit Theatre as part of a curriculum (not just as an after-school enrichment activity). Cassie Worley is an educator, director, producer, and actress. She currently performs in the Merry Wives of Windsor at Tulane University as part of the Shakespeare Festival. September ushers in the new season with “Lombardi” by Eric Simonson. MORE INFORMATION ON LE PETIT
lepetittheatre.com or call (504) 522-2081
HOLLYWOOD
NOLA
Casting Calls Hot Tub Time Machine 2
is seeking extras to appear in the film. They are specifically looking for college aged extras, women (age 18-25) willing to work topless, New Orleans characters (buskers, jugglers, street artists, etc.), men who are physically fit (age 18-30) who would be willing to work shirtless, bands and
others. Glorioso Casting is handling all extras casting, you can register at www. mycastingfile.com. Crew inquires can be directed to inhotwaterresumes@gmail.com.
American Horror Story
is holding auditions for new series regulars and guest stars. Guest stars and extras casting throughout the season. Filming begins July, 2013 in New Orleans, LA. Submit resumes/photos: info@bathersoncasting.com
continued from page 19
project, which has been in the works for quite some time now, has been held up mostly, according to Kermit, by City officials. “I’m going to have it exactly as Ernie K-Doe did. Tourists go there all day long taking pictures of the building.” In the midst of all that’s happening in his life, Kermit is most excited about his July 6th wedding to fiancé Lexine May. His smile widens and his mood lightens noticeably when he talks about her. “She loves to dance. I was visiting a good friend at his venue, I saw her, and I asked her out. We’ve been together ever since that day.” When asked on what inspires his music, Kermit’s answer was pretty direct. “My family. To know that they are looking up to me keeps me going.”
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At the conclusion of our interview, while standing in front of his Speakeasy Restaurant, it dawned that I’d nearly forgot to ask Kermit one of the most important questions of any interview: What is the most challenging thing about being a celebrity? “I’m grateful for everything I’ve been blessed with,” he initially responded, then paused. “But people ask me for money every single day. It never stops.” And just as if it were on cue, a random neighborhood lady, far from earshot of our interview, ran from across the street and yelled, "Hey Kermit, gimme a dollar!" Kermit told the woman that he didn't have a dollar, and she asked for fifty cents instead. He then told her that he didn't have any change.
Her final response had us both in absolute laughter, "Well then, go to the ATM machine!" He kept the same smile and didn't offer a response; she got the point and happily skipped off into the sunset. This was by far the most bizarre ending to any interview I'd performed to date.
His latest album, We Partyin' Traditional Style (Basin), is currently at #9 on Billboard's Jazz Charts.
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JULY HOROSCOPES
Aries March 21 - April 19 Home is where your heart is this month as you feel very sentimental about your past. Reconnect with family and friends from long ago. Advice from a loved one puts everything into perspective.
Gemini May 21 - June 20 Confusion surrounding a partnership or relationship creates delays in plans. Before you make a commitment to anything or anyone, get facts from a trusted source.
Leo July 23 - August 22 Career demands take center stage and leave little time for fun. Balance business and pleasure as much you can. Don't make promises you cannot keep. People are depending on you.
Libra Sept. 23 - Oct. 22 Money flows easier this month but you are still advised to put some cash away for a rainy day. Time is of essence if you want to change jobs or apply for a new position at work.
Maria Shaw Lawson is a New Orleans based astrologer and author. Her horoscopes reached 61 million households as the TV Guide Channel’s on air host. She also pens columns for the National Enquirer and Soap Opera Digest. A regular guest on TV and Radio, Maria does phone consultations for people worldwide. Join Maria’s fan page on Facebook at French Quarter Medium Maria Shaw Lawson for free daily horoscope posts.
Happy Birthday, Cancer!
Sagitarius Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 Say yes to an offer! It may seem to good to be true but it's for real. You are starting a pleasant cycle that brings many benefits and good fortune your way.
Aquarius Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 You may not realize it but you are being groomed for a bigger position. Many people are recognizing your talents and have plans to capitalize on them. Be ready for a positive change to come your way.
Taurus April 20 - May 20 A restless feeling prevails and you may find yourself hitting the open road, booking a ticket to an exotic location or merely jumping in your car and heading to the lake. Play your favorite lucky numbers this month!
Cancer June 21 - July 22 Happy Birthday! Ring in your solar new year right. Surround yourself with people you love. Mercury retrograde in your sign the first three weeks of the month, causes some frustration but you'll handle anything thrown your way.
Virgo Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 A little white lie may help you get out of a sticky situation but it will catch up to you in the long run. Practice patience with a new co worker. They may need your expertise and help but are afraid to ask.
Scorpio Oct. 23 - Nov. 21 You need to set boundaries with people or expect to be taken advantage of this month. A check you've been expecting finally arrives. Better late than never!
Capricorn Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 Small healthy lifestyle changes can create big results this month. You will look and better by tweaking your diet and boosting your exercise program. Buddy up with a friend for extra support.
Pisces Feb. 19 - March 20 You can chalk Lady Luck up to recent success. That luck runs high through the next several weeks so use it to your advantage. Your dreams reveal your destiny with someone special.
The past few years may have been challenging but things are changing for the better. In fact, this new period boasts one of the best years you've had in a while. Beneficial Jupiter is now in your sign and brings blessings of all kinds. You will get the appreciation you deserve! Doors, once closed are open. Things fall into your lap.Between now and until July 2014, you get a chance to see goals materialize. Then in mid 2014, finances are on the rise. You may get a chance to travel to somewhere special in October. Your career path is well lit in September and April. Healthwise, you feel great but watch out for Jupiter's expansiveness because you may put weight on easily. Dreamy Neptune takes you to exotic places in the late winter and spring. You'll be excited by added responsibilities on the work front. Some Crabs will open their own business this year. Did you know that there are more self made millionaires born under your sign? That's because you intuitively know what the public needs. Surround yourself with positive people who have drive and ambition. You can learn a lot from successful people. Love is no stranger these days. Some Crabs get a second chance at love when an old flame returns. Others will reignite the passion with their current mate. At the same time, responsible Saturn helps Cancers to let go of a losing proposition so new love can enter the picture. Expect a lovely, wonder filled year; a time when your dreams finally come true! 24 |nola
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Louisiana Shrimp Fettuccine Recipe DIRECTIONS 3 3 3 3 2 3 4 ¼ 1 1 1
lbs shrimp (crawfish is also good) sticks margarine onions, chopped stalks celery, chopped bell peppers, chopped cloves garlic, chopped tbsp parsley flakes cup flour pt. half and half small block of Velveeta lb fettuccine noodles
The
78
th
Sauté vegetables in margarine. Cook 10 minutes. Add cheese and flour, cook for a few minutes. Stir in half and half. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Simmer 30 minutes. Boil noodles and add to mixture. Recipe is courtesy of the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival, and was submitted by Joellen Frances Roy Fuhrer, Festival Queen-1991.
Annual Louisiana
Shrimp and Petroleum
FESTIVAL
August 30–September 2, 2013 • Morgan City, LA 800.256.2931 or 985.385.0703 • www.shrimp-petrofest.org
Come to our oldest state-chartered harvest festival and enjoy the best array of shrimp and seafood dishes around! Enjoy 3 days of live music, arts & crafts, the Cajun Culinary Classic, water parade and Children’s Village with absolutely no gate fee! And don’t miss your chance to tour Mr. Charlie, a working oil rig and offshore oil drilling museum!
Summer Festival Guide Festigals 2013
The Great Race
WHERE: Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., New Orleans WHEN: June 20-23 WHAT: A celebration of women by women. Includes empowerment seminars, cocktail receptions, yoga, parties, parades, and New Orleans tours
WHERE: N. New Hampshire Street, Covington 423-648-8542 www.greatrace.com WHEN: 6/28 4pm-8pm WHAT: About 100 antique cars will be on display as racers rest before the final leg of the $150,000 race. Free.
Smoked Meat Festival
Louisiana Catfish Festival WHERE: St. Gertrude Catholic Church, 17292 Highway 631, Des Allemands WHEN: June 21-23 WHAT: A family-friendly festival, features rides, games and contests, music, 5K and one mile races, and food
WHERE: Northside Civic Center, 704 N. Soileau St., Ville Platte 337-363-1416 www.smokedmeatfestival WHEN: 6/28-6/29 Friday 5 pm-midnight, Saturday 8 am-midnight. WHAT: Children’s activities, beauty pageants, cooking contests, live music, food, arts and crafts. Admission $7, children under 12 $1.
French Summer Wine Festival WHERE: The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., New Orleans 504-458-3528 www.facc-gc.com WHEN: 6/29 7pm-10pm WHAT: The French American Chamber of Commerce hosts a celebration and tasting of French wines, cuisine and culture. Includes live entertainment. Admission $65.
2013 Essence Festival WHERE: Mercedes Benz Superdome & Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans WHEN: 7/5-7/7 WHAT: Entertainment, empowerment seminars, author signings, food, cultural activities and discussions. July 5 - Jill Scott, Maxwell, LL Cool J, Brandy July 6 - Charlie Wilson, New Edition, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Solange July 7 - Beyoncé, Janelle Monáe, TGT (Tyrese, Ginuwine and Tank) Detailed schedule information can be found at www.essencemusicfest.com 26 |nola
LIVE Magazine
FESTIVAL GUIDE
Tales of the Cocktail WHERE: Hotel Monteleone and other locations WHEN: 7/19-7/20 WHAT: The 11th annual celebration features tastings, book signings, nearly 60 seminars by award-winning bartenders and chefs. Tours of historic bars. talesofthecocktail.com or 504-948-0511.
Mandeville City Seafood Festival WHERE: Fontainebleau State Park WHEN: 7/4-7/7 WHAT: Live music, wide range of seafood dishes, children’s activities, swimming beach, covered eating areas. www. seafoodfest.com/
Swamp Pop Music Festival WHERE: Lamar-Dixon Expo Center, 9039 St. Landry Road, Gonzales WHEN: 7/19-7/20 WHAT: Jambalaya cook-off, pageant, car/truck show, children’s activities, motorcycle poker run, live music. swamppopmusicfest.com
New Orleans Beatles Festival San Fermin in Nueva Orleans WHERE: Throughout the French Quarter WHEN: 7/11- 7/14 WHAT: Food, music, entertainment. Homage to the bull running in Spain- Big Easy Roller Girls pursue runners with plastic bats and helmets.
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WHERE: House of Blues WHEN: 7/13 WHAT: Music celebration featuring The Top Cats, John Papa Gros, The Molly Ringwilds, Rockin’ Dopsie Jr., Chuck Credo IV, The Yat Pack, Marc Broussard, Jim Lockwood, The Mixed Nuts, Jimmy Robinson
4th of July Celebrations: • Bucktown Bash & Blessing of the Fleet- Bucktown Marina f/The Grass Roots, Bucktown All-Stars, Gal Goliday, Honky Tonk Revue, Christian Serpas & Ghost Town • Go 4th on the RiverFireworks and music @ New Orleans Riverfront • Essence Festival Family Reunion Day Biz Markie, Brass A Holics, Cupid, Doug E Fresh, Water Seed @ Woldenberg Park • Algiers Ferry Dock- Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes, Diablo Horns, Egg Yolk Jubilee • Slidell Heritage Festival Heritage Park, Slidell - Live music, food, art, children’s activities, fireworks.www. slidellheritagefest.org
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t s e F Jazz with Jerry Moran
Papas Grows Funk
I
t was just another one of those beautiful Jazz Fest Dayz...The threat of rain, at least heavy rains, had passed and the temperature was dropping steadily. I can't really remember the last time that I wore jeans and a long-sleeved T-shirt with layered T-shirts on top of it for Jazz Fest, but today I was layered with warm clothes and some waterproof work boots that I’d purchased during my BP oil spill shooting days, along with freshly inserted Dr. Scholl's insoles for maximum comfort. I didn't go to Jazz Fest on Thursday for the first time in a long time due to the rains even though my photo creds were there waiting for me. I really didn't feel like having to protect my camera equipment all day. I had seen pictures of what it looked like and heard stories of the mud lakes throughout the fest. I drove over to the area of the fest to park by Esplanade and Broad and killed some time taking some
Tab Benoit
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LIVE Magazine
neighborhood shots and was eventually scooped up by my friend Rueben Williams, wife Nicole and his boys. We all had one thing in common, waterproof shoes and dressed as if it were a nasty November day. We headed over to the “mud” parking lot off Ana Popovic DeSaix and proceeded to march into the fest, and boy, those new Dr. Scholl's insoles felt real good! While walking through the barn area before we got into the fest, I texted friend John Gros of Papa Grows Funk to find out where I need to meet his wife to get my backstage sticker in order to shoot on stage for their show and proceeded to the press tent to get my credentials. I then headed back over to the Congo Square stage where John was getting ready to play walking past the Fais Do Do stage, with Beaousoleil jammin, straight through what can only be described as a mud swamp about 6 to 12 inches deep. Here the boots were immediately put to the test and worked like a charm as long as I could walk thru mud that was less than a foot deep I would be okay through today and it worked out that way. As I march through the marsh, looking around
with Jerry Moran
I had a big smile my face as people were unaffected by the mud situation, all dancing to the music in and out of the mud. I proceeded to shoot Papa Grows Funk's show, and what it show it was! After that show it was time to check my Jazz Fest app at to see who to shoot next, and how get there because the water was really deep in some places.....as if there was a plan I could or would follow....yeah right.... somewhere I saw Irma Thomas was playing and to me that's a don't miss. I walked over by the Blues Tent and caught Anna Popovic, who as amazing...visually and aurally...then started a trek towards the Acura Stage where I thought Irma Thomas was playing at 4:40, stopping by the Trout Bouquet booth to get one of my favorite Jazz Fest dishes on the way.
Irma Thomas
UP
at Jazz Fest today being an illusion CLOSE because large swaths of the infield were “uninhabitable”, then onto pushing the limits of photography and then onto pushing the limits of writing (Geraldine is a fabulous writer). The next thing I know we are at the Gospel Tent, time for church with Irma Thomas! You see Jazz Fest is funny like that, there are no plans, if you wind up in the wrong place, it's the right place, as I would have never captured the shots of Irma(maybe one of the best ever), and I would have missed Nicolas Payton, which would have been a crime, a felony at that.
Nicholas Payton
After the Gospel Tent, went and caught Tab setting the Blues Tent on fire at 6:45, I decided to make a plan to catch a string of bands on the way out, Stooges Brass Band, Jimmy Cliff, then Willie Nelson was the plan, but the mud was in the way...the deep mud.
For the first time ever, at least I can remember, while eating and walking on the track behind Acura, my food was in danger of literally blowing off the plate so I ducked behind a truck and shoveled the trout and bread down my throat before it hit the sandy track. Okay, perfect, I am right on time for Irma at Acura, so I thought. After trudging through the muddy new “cattle lane” at Acura to the photo pit, I looked at my phone to check the time and it was almost 5, and no Irma. Dammit, no Irma, musta read a schedule on a previous stage from another day! Maroon 5 was comin on but thats not what I was there for, so slowly I waded back to the track and in the distance heard some amazing sounds coming from the Jazz Tent, Nicolas Payton as holding court and I was summoned on in after leaving the Jazz Tent I figured out Irma Thomas was in the Gospel Tent… way over there. Initially I said oh well, I'll just go to the Blues Tent and wait for Tab to come on, then I ran into Geraldine Wycoff and walked with her for a bit. Somehow we got into a conversation about why everything happens for a reason, at Jazz Fest and in life, then onto a discussion about the seemingly large crowd
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Took a detour by Economy Hall for Orange Kellins New Orleans Deluxe Orchestra after getting the Stooges Brass Band, missed Jimmy Cliff, caught Rockin Dopsie, and ended with Willie Nelson singing Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die. What more can you ask for?
Willie Nelson
You see, that's what I love about Jazz Fest most, there are no wrong decisions, paraphrasing Dr. John, you always wind up in the right place, even if it's the wrong time. All photography is copyrighted by Jerry Moran, Native Orleanian LLC. More pictures and a musical slideshow can be seen at nativeorleanian.org nola
LIVE Magazine | 29
continued from page 16
SH: What are some of your influences? The stuff you play is all over the board, from Jimi Hendrix covers to really dirty, funky originals. John: The Meters, Dr. John, Sly and the Family Stone, James Brown. I’m a piano man and so was my dad. I grew up listening to a lot of Fats Domino’s stuff. All the New Orleans music. Lee Dorsey, Allen Touissant. I also grew up listening to the radio in the 70’s and 80’s so a lot of guitar bands from that period. Zepellin and ZZ Top. I love Journey, and I love Pearl Jam. SH: Can you tell me how the band has evolved and changed in the 15 years you have been together? John: We started out as really a jam band that played covers. We played the Meters and lots of James Brown stuff. Once we started having some success and really getting popular we started integrating writing on the first record. When the second record came out it was all originals. If you come to our shows now you might hear one or two covers, but it’s really all our own stuff now. SH: Is there a reason y’all are having your last show at Tipitina’s instead of the Maple Leaf? John: We figure, well actually we’re praying, we will have more people than the Maple Leaf can hold at the show. We’re an uptown band, and we wanted to do it at an uptown venue. Doing it at Tips makes sense.
SH: Why go on a break now? John: The timing is just right to step back. It’s time to catch our breath and step away. If we never come back to it we can leave feeling pretty good about what we did. And if we do come back to it, great. June also has a lot of stuff going on in Japan, and that’s part of the reason for the hiatus. He’s been going back and forth and we didn’t want him to miss out on some important personal things because of the band. SH: What’s next? Will you guys still gig around town separately? Can I count on you to give me another Stonesfest (a great Stone’s tribute John does with George Porter Jr. and some former Radiators)? John: That was really fun wasn’t it? Hopefully now I’ll have more time to do things like that. I’m planning on playing a bit with Anders Osborne and Dave Malone. I’ll start another band, but I’m not in a rush. HOW TO FIND THEM: Papa Grows Funk is available on ITunes, or area music stores. papagrowsfunk.com Upcoming Shows: 6/8/13- Gulf Shores: 9th Annual LuLuPalooza, 6/13/13- Houston: Discovery Green Concert Series, 6/29/13- Final Show-- New Orleans: Tipitina’s
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