Shreveport Blog, the site for imagining sustainable suburbs and a schvingy downtown

Where Things Come Back: award-winning author Corey Whaley chats at Hamilton South Caddo Branch Shreve Memorial Library Th, 4 pm

2012-01-31T12:52:00.001-08:00

Award-winning author Corey Whaley, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Having enjoyed the book Where Things Come Back and having enjoyed hanging with Corey, I am delighted to interview him at the Hamilton South Caddo Library," says Robert Trudeau.

"My goal is to ask Corey questions that will lead to deepening everyone's appreciation of his writing."

Shreve Memorial Lib Hamilton S Caddo
2111 Bert Kouns Indus Loop
Spt 71118

Art in Transportation Symposium begins Tues-Wed-Th sessions at Artspace; SRAC invites artists to walk in

2012-01-31T10:36:00.001-08:00

Art in Transportation; SRAC, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Transportation in Art is a difficult sell," says Vickie Marshall of SRAC about the conference that opened today. "Because we don't think of cars, trucks, buses, bike and pedestrians as part of the art world."

But artists should get over the word "transportation" and check out this conference. You can still register! See http://shrevearts.org/arts-culture/public-art-2/

Sustainability Learning Community at Centenary College with profs Jeanne Hamming and Troy Messina; on-air chat on KSCL, 91.3 fm, Mon, Jan30, 5 pm

2012-01-29T20:34:00.001-08:00

Jeanne Hamming, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"GreenHouse, Centenary's Sustainability Living Learning Community, allows students who share an interest in environmental and sustainability issues to live and study together in a designated residence hall. Students who participate in the GreenHouse will enjoy access to team-taught learning-labs, special events and programs, service-learning and internship opportunities, and close contact with faculty outside of the classroom," says the college web site.

Dr Hamming and Dr Messina are the faculty moderators for the program.

Stream at KSCL.FM
Questions: 869 5297

And you are encouraged to attend the A Better Shreveport meeting, 6 to 7 pm, in the Wright Bldg, Centenary.

Party at Barnwell with the Shreveport Second Line trio for the opening of Mardi Gras . . . Do It North Louisiana Style, Sun, Jan 29, 2 to 4:30 pm

2012-01-29T07:29:00.001-08:00

Shreveport Second Line, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The opening reception for the Barnwell Center's exhibit, Mardi Gras....Do It North Louisiana Style, features the New Orleans-style brass band music of the Shreveport Second Line trio.

Sunday, January 29, 2012, 2pm to 4:30pm.
Free and open to all.

Leia Lewis, Mary Grace De Joya Vea, Isabelle De Joya Vea, Loren Demerath and Robert Trudeau: TEDx RedRiver event Tues, Jan 31, 6:30 - 8pm, CoHabitat Shreveport

2012-01-28T06:27:00.001-08:00

Shreveport Community Drum Circle: Leia Lewis, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Ideas Worth Spreading is what TEDx is about," says John Grindley.

TEDxRedRiver: Community Building
Tues, Jan 31, 2012 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (presentation starts at 6:30 p.m.)
@ Cohabitat (610 Commerce Street Downtown)

The speakers and their presentations:

Leia Lewis Henderson, Founding Director of Sankofa Vision, Inc., will present “Sankofa is a Verb.” Henderson’s work with Sankofa’s community garden annually attracts hundreds of diverse people from north Louisiana and beyond. The organic community garden yields 100 bushels of nutritious vegetables shared among garden volunteers, low-income families, and the elderly.

Robert Trudeau, multi-media artist, blogger, teacher, music maven and author of How To Mardi Gras will present “Currying an Alternative Carnival: the Story of Blanc et Noir Marching Society” detailing his work with Shreveport-Bossier’s exceedingly diverse group, representing several of Shreveport's communities in Mardi Gras celebrations such as the Highland Parade.

Dr. Loren Demerath, sociologist at Centenary College of Louisiana is the author of the forthcoming book Explaining Culture which explores how our desire for subjective order produces culture as we collaboratively express ourselves and our realities through stories, symbols and rituals. Demarath’s talk “The Importance of Self-Expression and Interaction for Growth and Energy: A Theory and Case Study of a Community Organization" applies his theories to an analysis of the citizens organization he founded "ABetterShreveport.org.”

Dr Mary Grace De Joya Vea, cardiologist, is one of the founders of the Aseana Foundation of Shreveport. Among their works is the creation of the Asian Gardens park and annual Aseana Spring Festival.

Isabelle De Joya Vea is a Caddo Magnet High School student who has helped accelerate the activities of the Asian Studies Assoc at Magnet High.

Your RSVP at TEDx January would be a terrific addition to the prep.

View the 15-minute Academy Award-nominated The Fantastic Flying Booksof Mr. Morris Lessmore, created by Moonbot Studios, Shreveport

2012-01-26T06:46:00.001-08:00

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore at Artspace Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The 15-minute Academy Award-nominated The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore, created by Moonbot Studios, Shreveport, is an absorbing short, one that bears repeated viewings.

Top students perform with professionals at Caddo Magnet HS OrchestraConcerto Concert , Th, Jan 26, 6:30 pm, Magnet PAC, Shreveport

2012-01-26T05:09:00.001-08:00

Caddo Magnet HS Orchestra concerto winners, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Top students will perform with professionals at the Caddo Magnet HS Orchestra Concerto Concert , Th, Jan 26, 6:30 pm, Magnet PAC, says Elaine Webb.

It is free and open to the public. See details and more photos at Susan Roger's blog, Shreveport Musicians Forever.

"HIV is Not a Crime"- Town Hall Meeting presented by the Philadelphia Center

2012-01-25T13:24:00.000-08:00

"HIV is Not a Crime" is a film by Sean Strub, featuring Louisiana
native Robert Suttle. The town hall is an opportunity to view the
documentary project and to learn more about HIV criminalization in
Louisiana.

Panel members will be present to facilitate the discussion by community members regarding HIV criminalization in Louisiana - and issues related to it.

Regional representatives will be on hand - as well as advocates and others who are interested in learning more about HIV criminalization in our state and nation...

All are welcome to attend.

Refreshments and informational materials will also be available to all guests.

Monday, 6 February 2012- 6pm
The Betty and Leonard Phillips Deaf Action Center
601 Jordan St.
Shreveport, LA. 71101

For more information please contact
Deborah Allen- 318-219-6099

Nominated for an Academy Award in Animated Short: The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr Morris Lessmore / Moonbot Studios, Shreveport

2012-01-24T06:43:00.001-08:00

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr Morris Lessmore: Moonbot Studios, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The 84th Academy Awards announces the nominees in Short Film (Animated) -

- Dimanche/Sunday/ Patrick Doyon

- The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore / William Joyce and Brandon Oldenburg

- La Luna / Enrico Casarosa

- A Morning Stroll / Grant Orchard and Sue Goffe

- Wild Life / Amanda Forbis and Wendy Tilby

Louisiana Film Prize: a hybrid, high-stakes contestible which will be thrown down on Th, Jan 26, 6 pm, at RFC Shreveport

2012-01-24T06:35:00.001-08:00

La Film Prize, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The Louisiana Film Prize is going to be the special guest at the Jan. Last Martini event at the Robinson Film Center, says Gregory Kallenberg.

The LAFP is a contest and festival that invites filmmakers from all over the world to create and present a short film.

However, there is one rule that everyone must follow. Check it out Thurs at RFC.

Sonic shoom: Simon Whetham, James Eck Rippie and Peter Fettermanperform avant garde music at The Shop, 2002 Southern Ave, on Wed, Jan25, 7 to 10 pm

2012-01-22T20:23:00.001-08:00

Simon Whetham, a photo by Marek Chołoniewski on Flickr.

Sound Explorations by Simon Whetham, James Eck Rippie, and Peter Fetterman, says minicine, will be presented 7 to 10 pm
at The Shop! , 2002 Southern Avenue, on Wed, Jan 25.

minicine? welcomes back to Shreveport, sound artist Simon Whetham, who recently performed at the MSPS New Music Festival 2011. Whetham (Bristol, UK), is in the country collecting field recordings as part of his ongoing active crossover project http://www.activecrossover.co.uk/ .

James Eck Rippie (New Orleans) works primarily with turntables, with a focus on creating abstract sound from classical music recordings utilizing altered needles, turntable feedback, effect pedals, damaged records, etc. In decomposing the original sound source.

Peter Fetterman (Shreveport), elusive and secretive, will meditate on the meaning of life through sound waves.

Cole Brand on TEDx Red River and April Dahm on Texas Ave CommunityAssoc on KSCL at 5 pm, Mon, Jan 23

2012-01-22T20:11:00.001-08:00

TEDx Red River series: Jeff Spikes, Clint McCommon, Marjorie Kouns, Cole Brand, John Grindley, Margo Shideler, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Cole Brand will update listeners on the region's first evening of TEDx (technology/entertainment/design/independent) talks. TEDx RedRiver will be presented on Tues, Jan 31, 6 to 8 pm at CoHabitat, 610 Commerce St.

April Dahm will talk about Texas Ave Comm Assoc upcoming events, including the day honoring Cora M Allen, builder of the Calanthean Temple.

The program, 5 pm on Mondays, is Time for A Better Shreveport. Hosts will be Robert Trudeau and Carolyn Manning.

Stream the program at KSCL.fm.
Questions, comments: 869 5297

Contribute to autobiography by Bertha Renter Harris, Shreveport, by making pledge at Kickstarter.com

2012-01-20T15:32:00.001-08:00

Bertha Renter Harris, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"I am a 72 year-old folk artist and recently completed the first revised draft of my autobiography," says Bertha R Harris at Kickstarter.com.

"I did not seriously undertake art until after I turned 65. The public reception to my art has been both gratifying and inspirational. However I feel I still have a great deal to offer not just in art but the story of my life.

In our small section of the agricultural south where I was raised, conditions had not changed much since the end of the Civil War. Tenant farmers and black farm families were practically owned by the family plantations where they worked. Escape from this bonded servitude was exactly that. Many families were always in debt to the plantation store or the owner.

My family was unique in that my grandparents family owned their own land, BUT, it did not make us exempt from conditions of those around us.

My struggles to advance in a world over which I felt I had little control were against forces of bigotry, sexual discrimination and harassment.

Not only have I survived, I have blossomed as an artist with an understanding of my responsibility to help others who continue in bondage.

In the fall of 2011 I received my first true recognition on a broader stage for my artwork. I received one of the major awards at the Red River Revel and sold my first large painting."

With Kickstarter contributions Harris will edit and publish her autobiogaphy. See more here.

Pianist Norman Krieger performs Brahms with Shreveport Symphony Orchestra at Riverview Theater, Shreveport, on Sat, Jan 21, 7:30 pm

2012-01-19T19:48:00.001-08:00

"Norman Krieger" "Modesto Symphony Orchestra" Brahms "Concerto No. 1 in D minor" "Gallo Center for the Arts", a photo by amenfoto on Flickr.

"Don't miss an evening of powerful, spirited music by Johannes Brahms this Saturday night, featuring the renowned pianist Norman Krieger," says Lois Robinson.

"Get tickets to all 3 of our Piano Celebration concerts (January, February & March) and get 25% off regular prices!"

The Beauty of Brahms concert
Sat, Jan 21 - 7:30 PM
Riverview Theatre
Michael Butterman, music director

Free shuttle service begins one hour before the performance at Regions Bank parking garage at the corner of Milam & Market Streets.

Tickets start at $17 - Purchase tickets online until midnight tonight or call 318-227-TUNE (8863).

Tickets available by phone:
*9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday
*9:30 a.m. to concert time on Saturday
Box office hours:
*9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday at the SSO office*Noon to concert time on Saturday at the Riverview Theatre Box office

Boot yourself into 3D animation via Moonbot Studio's Jamil Lahhan; intro Sat, Jan 28, 10 am to noon at LSUS

2012-01-19T09:14:00.001-08:00

Moonbot Studio's Jamil Lahhan at LSUS, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

A quick overview and demonstration of the principles of animation using Autodesk Maya taught by Jamil Lahhan. He is a graduate of Ringling College of Art & Design and an animator at Moonbot Studios.

LSUS Continuing Educ 12SCMPAVE058
January 28, Sat : 10:00 AM - Noon
Technology Center 225A
Fee:$12

Spontaneous emissions: Pat Sewell opens exhibit at Artspace on Thurs, Jan 19, 5 to 8 pm

2012-01-18T17:49:00.001-08:00

Pat Sewell mixed media art show, La State Exhibit Museum , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Pat Sewell calls his art "Spontaneous emissions." He opens a one-man show at Artspace on Thurs, Jan 19, 5 to 8 pm.

"My paintings largely happen: their underpinnings unannounced until their emergence, but sufficiently potent once at play in design that they leave me a sense that I am not in charge so much as along for the ride," says Sewell.

Lafayette hosts Cinema on the Bayou Film Festival Jan 25 - 29, Pat Mire and Rebecca Hudsmith invite Shreveport to party with them on theVermilion

2012-01-17T18:59:00.001-08:00

Photography Weekly Challenge (After Dark), a photo by Jobe Roco on Flickr.

"Can't make it to Sundance? Then come on down to Cinema on the Bayou Film Festival, Jan. 25-29, 2012, in Lafayette, LA," says former Shreveporter Rebecca Hudsmith.

"Lafayette's the epicentre of Cajun and Creole cultures, for great films, cool filmmakers, and lots of fun. Oh, and did we mention the after-parties serving up good conversation and the best boudin, wine and king cake around?"

Check out the schedule at cinemaonthebayou.com.

Eco Mulch and Hughes Recycling owners, Hal Struckman and Michael Hughes, chat at KSCL fm, 91.3, at 5 pm Mon, Jan 16

2012-01-16T13:37:00.001-08:00

Michael Corbin, Michael Hughes, KSCL, Shreveport, with Carolyn Manning, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Green issues and solutions facing Shreveport will be discussed on-air at KSCL on Mon at 5 pm, says Robert Trudeau.

Hal Struckman and Michael Hughes will discuss their recycling companies on the weekly program Time for A Better Shreveport.

Hosts are Trudeau, Loren Demerath and Carolyn Manning.

Stream at http://kscl.fm.
869 5297 gets the audio booth at kscl.

More at http://abettershreveport.blogspot.com/

New and classic tunes from piano-pounder par excellence David Egan at Celebrity Lounge, El Dorado Casino, on Tues - Wed, Jan 17 - 18, 8 to 12pm

2012-01-16T08:36:00.001-08:00

David Egan, Lafayette / Shreveport , a photo by Beaird on Flickr.

David Egan, Shreveport-raised singer-songwriter with a working Masters in bluesology, will visit the Celebrity Lounge this week.

He's part of the Songwriter Circle on Tues, 8-12, and performs solo on Wed, 8-12, says Egan. He promises new songs to top off his catalog of songs from the albums Twenty years of Trouble and You Don't Know Your Mind.

Both albums are highly recommended. As is the Celebrity Lounge at Eldorado Casino. Local musicians play in a deluxe setting and listeners lounge in free comfort at the Celeb Lounge.

Photo Barbara Beaird.

Baroque Artists of Shreveport, under direction of violinist Daniel Santelices, continue season with performance at St Mark's Cathedral; concerts ahead on March 11, May 6

2012-01-15T17:33:00.000-08:00

Young country, old country: the Steel Wheels at Fairfield Studios, Sun, Jan 15, 7 pm

2012-01-15T08:51:00.001-08:00

IMG_2861, a photo by blueathena7 on Flickr.

"If one must compare The Steel Wheels to another act in order to get an idea of their music, imagine a blend of the passion of The Avett Brothers, the instrumentals of the Old Crow Medicine Show, and then sprinkle in the backwoods feel of The Legendary Shack Shakers. In truth, attempting to compare them to anyone is an injustice."—John Walker, Americana Roots

thesteelwheels.com For more information about the Shreveport House Concerts Series, go to www.shreveporthouseconcerts.org

Sun, Jan 15, 7 PM, Fairfield Studios, 1510 Fairfield Avenue. $20 admission.
318 219 7688.

Party in a Super Water Sympathy video shoot by Mindy Bledsoe on Tues,Jan 17, Riverside Warehouse, 5 - 10 pm

2012-01-14T12:04:00.001-08:00

Super Water Sympathy, a photo by Warped Tour on Flickr.

"Come to the Warehouse, downtown Shreveport, Tuesday the 17th @ 5pm to be part of the Super Water Sympathy shoot. Bring your friends. The more the better! Be ready to hang out and have fun just like any bar night!" writes filmmaker Rob Senska.

"Mindy Bledsoe is directing the video, which is more of a short film. She is a
fan of music videos that tell a story. I will be behind the camera for her. The section of the video Tuesday night will account for about 25% of the entire project and mainly consist of live performance. We estimate it lasting from about 5pm to 10pm," adds Senska.

Photo above from 2012 Vans Warped Tour.

Robin Beach Black and the Bluebirds at Lake St Dance Hall, Shreveport, on Sat, Jan 14, 8 pm

2012-01-12T06:50:00.001-08:00

Robin Beach Black, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

At the corner of Lake St and Marshall St the Lake St Dance Hall awaits dancers and listeners alike.

Robin & the Bluebirds entertain on Sat, Jan 14, at 8:00 pm and will pretty much guarantee that you will get off your stool to shake your tail feather, says Bruce Flett.

Banned in America: location moved to Philadelphia Center

2012-01-10T16:48:00.000-08:00

In honor of the First Amendment, the ACLU of Louisiana will host Shreveport's 2nd public celebration of freedom of expression on Sunday January 22, 2012, from 5:00-8:00 pm.

The "Banned in America" celebration will be held at
The Philadelphia Center
2020 Centenary Blvd.
Shreveport, LA

The event, free and open to the public, will feature readings, songs, poetry and displays of works that have been banned or challenged around the United States, as well as messages from community members and those dedicated to the freedom of speech and expression.

Banned Books Week has been observed annually during the last week of September since 1982. The ACLU of Louisiana has sponsored a celebration of the freedom to read in New Orleans for over a decade. This is the first such event in Louisiana held outside of New Orleans, and is made possible by the generous support of the Beaird Family Foundation.

Official Website.

Sunday, January 22- 5pm
FREE!
Call 3183475421 for more information

Baroque Artists of Shreveport perform at St Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, Shreveport, on Sun, Jan 15, 3 pm

2012-01-10T16:37:00.001-08:00

Baroque Artists of Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Concertos from Bach, Buxtehude, Handel, Telemann and Vivaldi will be performed by the Baroque Artists of Shreveport on Sun, Jan 15, 3 pm. This concert features 11 professional musicians, says Ruth Drummond.

Horace English, bass-baritone, Sally Horak, flute, Theresa Zale Bridges, oboe, Douglas Bakenhus, bassoon, Laura Crawford, violin, Dan Santelices, violin, Elizabeth Grondin, violin, Ruth Drummond, cello and Gay Grosz and Cathy DeRousse, harpsichord-continuo.

Baroque Artists 2012 season concerts:
March 11 and May 6.

Free and open to the public.

Watch this young photog: Casey Jones exhibit at Bossier Arts Council's East Bank Gallery through January

2012-01-09T18:22:00.001-08:00

Casey Jones photo: "The Wrong Kind of Love", a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Casey Jones caught my eye several years ago on flickr by popping out vivid, rock-solid snaps pf performers at the Riverside Warehouse and at festivals. Jones has taken among the best shots of the sextet Dirtfoot, for example.

But his trajectory was to reach well beyond effective concert shots. Today he is steadily finding ways to tell stories via fresh placement of models and settings.

He's got a solo show at East Bank Gallery. His web site has vibe. Check out this downtowner's energy and growing imagination at East Bank Gallery Tues - Fri til 6 pm.

"Shreveport's Got A Hold On Me": Chris Brown's compilation of historic music to be aired on Mon, Jan 9, 5 pm, and Tues, Jan 10, 8 pm

2012-01-08T15:50:00.001-08:00

Chris Brown: "Shreveport Got A Hold On Me", a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Historian Chris Brown has completed his seventh collection of recordings associated with Shrevetown. This edition is called "Shreveport's Got A Hold On Me."

"You’ll hear songs by Shreveporters, songs about Shreveport, songs recorded in Shreveport, and songs released on Shreveport record labels. Featured artists include Clarence Williams' Blue Five, Paul Howard And His Arkansas Cotton Pickers, Tommy Cassel, Floyd Cramer, The Sensational Jones Singers Of Shrev. La., The Family Tree, Tommie Young, and more," writes Brown at his musical history blog, Shreveport Songs.

He'll discuss his work and play samples Mon at 5 pm, on Time for A Better Shreveport, KSCL, 91.3 fm. His seventh annual all-Shreveport radio show on his own weekly show, Romp and Stomp, is scheduled for Tues from 8-9pm.

Stream at Kscl.fm.

Also on Time for A Better Shreveport on Mon: musician-producer Dan Garner.

Pou, Wasson, Gilcrease, Van Eaton shine in Oliver! See it at RiverviewTheater on Sat, Jan 7, 7 pm and Sun, Jan 8, 2 pm

2012-01-07T11:36:00.001-08:00

Oliver! Academy Children's Theater, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"John Peyton Pou's peformance as the Artful Dodger is worth the price of admission. He is gifted," wrote actress and drama teacher Patti Reeves at intermission on opening night for Academy of Children's Theater's production of Oliver!

Reeves continued, in remarks posted on Facebook: "Nate Watson (Fagin) was super, as was Maddison Gilcrease (Nancy). The little boy who played Oliver, Trevor Van Eaton, has a beautiful voice. But John Peyton was magic."

Tickets $20 and $15.
ACT tickets: 747 8310 or at the door.

Snaps from the show on Sat night.

Feral Hogs, coyotes, bobcats, foxes and beavers: the Red River National Wildlife Refuge, Bossier City / Opening of center on Wed, Jan 11, and Sat, Jan 14

2012-01-06T17:16:00.001-08:00

Feral Hog, a photo by rmaum on Flickr.

Red River National Wildlife Refuge & the Friends of RRNWR will present a ribbon-cutting event for the new $3.8M Visitor & Education Center on Wed, Jan. 11, at 1:15 p.m, says Nancy Menasco.

The new facility will enhance awareness and connection to wildlife and wild places and that will provide an economic boost to the area.

"An additional Open House will be held from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14 to allow more members of the public to attend. Refreshments at both events," says Menasco.

Exhibit Gallery, cart tours of the Refuge, speaker Wildwood Dean (10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m), bird walk (8:30 a.m.), art exhibit, children’s activities, exhibits and Nature Store available on Saturday.

The Headquarters Unit is located at the west end of Sunflower Road, just outside
the city limits of Bossier City. From the intersection of US 71 (Barksdale Boulevard) and Jimmie Davis Highway (LA 511) in Bossier City, go south about one-half mile on US 71. Turn right (west) on Sunflower Road and proceed to the refuge entrance at the end of the road. Drive through the gate and follow the main gravel road about one mile, bearing left at the fork in the road.

Lynn Stewart, vice president, Friends of RRNWR, 318-518-7295 (cell)
Nancy Menasco, president, Friends of RRNWR, 318-868-3255
Pat Stinson, manager, RRNWR, 318-742-1219

Photograph by Ronnie Maum.

Super Water Sympathy: how the Shreveport band scored a spot on French /international radio station PATjE.FM

2012-01-06T14:25:00.001-08:00

Super Water Sympathy , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

At the music industry blog sonicbids.com, author Nick Mendez interviewed PATjE.FM’s Patrice Jauffret about the appeal of Super Water Sympathy. His post:

PATjE.FM is an online streaming radio station that pumps out the finest independent artists from around the world 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We decided to check in with PATjE.FM’s head honcho Patrice Jauffret on the eve of their one year anniversary, to get an idea of just what it takes to generate international radio appeal.

One band immediately jumped to his mind: Shreveport, LA’s own Super Water Symphony. Their flavor of alternative synth-pop hummed just the right key on their track “Abzu”, which Patrice quickly selected for airplay.

What made Super Water Sympathy stand out to you when you were making your selections?

First it was the music. We really liked their song “Abzu”. It was unanimous. Then we checked the song’s live version on YouTube and we found an angle showing the band from the back of the room with the audience. Super Water Sympathy’s lead vocalist sounded as good as on the recorded version. She has powerful vocals and the band energy looked great. Finally their band photo was fun and website easy to use.

How does promoting a new band differ between Europe and the United States?

It’s really the same. It comes down to the music, how the band sounds. Nowadays live performances are equally important for bands to create the buzz.

Louisiana's Carnival season begins with Twelfth Night! Blanc et Noir Marching Society has Twelfth Night Brunch on Sun, Jan 8, 1 pm, Brothers Seafood, Shreveport

2012-01-06T05:17:00.001-08:00

Brother's Seafood, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Pity those places where on January 6, it is more important to be clean than to be Queen. In New Orleans we know better," writes Erroll Laborde about the opening of Carnival season in the Crescent City.

Jan 6 is the first official day for king cakes and the dances and tavern sessions of the season. The end of the season, Fat Tuesday, is Feb 21, 2012. In Shreveport we mark the crest of Carnival by the Krewe of Highland Parade, which is Sun, Feb 19, 1 pm.

Blanc et Noir Marching Society is one of many krewes across the state gathering on or around 12th Night, aka the Feast of the Epiphany, to party.

All are welcome on Sun, Jan 8, 1 pm, at Brother's Seafood on 4916 Monkhouse, (318) 635-1641. It's a Dutch treat for meet and greet.

Keeping the blues alive: Shreveport's 13-year old singer-guitarist Matthew Davidson winner of Robert Johnson Foundation Award

2012-01-05T09:04:00.001-08:00

Matthew Davidson, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Singer-guitarist Matthew Davidson, age 13, is the winner of the 2011 Robert Johnson New Generation Award, says Ella Davidson.

"It's an award given out annually to guitarists 12 to 18 years old that helps young kids like myself keep interested in the blues and respect the blues," Davidson explained to the Shreveport Times.

Davidson seems to have a genuine interest in the traditional art form of electric blues. In videos at matthewdavidson.net the viewer will see a teen who revels in the freedom and people-touching licks inherent in the blues.

In his very active band are 15-year-old drummer Kyle McClanahan, 15-year-old Gregory Walton on keyboard and Chris Campisi on bass.

Davidson was 12 at the time of the photo above.

Ansley Hughes and Super Water Sympathy added to Vans Warped Tour in July on strength of album Vesper Belle

2012-01-04T16:04:00.001-08:00

Ansley Hughes and the steno pool, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Indie rock singer Ansley Hughes developed her voice on stage with Caddo Magnet High productions - including a much-much-discussed selection from 'Chicago' that you might ask her about - and with the Academy of Children's Theater. Today she is using her training in the indie rock band Super Water Sympathy.

SWS, based in Shreveport, has been named to the Vans Warped Tour to the delight of those who've been won as fans by listening to their debut album, Vesper Belle. Touring taverns in the Deep South has also built a fan base, says Ryan Robinson, as has the "You, Us, Hey" video.

He adds, "Ok well, since everyone else is posting this...Huzzah! My band is playing Warped Tour! 16 Year Old Ryan would have surely burned down a schoolbus at this news, but older Ryan is going to Tacomania."

Hughes as a teen in ACT's Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Xmas tree recycling in Shreveport-Bossier: Hal Struckman, Eco-Mulch and Sod, 6105 St Vincent Ave

2012-01-03T16:06:00.001-08:00

Hal Struckman, Eco-Mulch, Shreveport , a photo borrowed from FB by trudeau on Flickr.

"Yes, you can bring your tree to Eco-Mulch between 7 am and 5 pm, says Hal Struckman, owner of Eco-Mulch and Sod. It will probably be made into mulch or compost within a day, says Struckman.

Bring it to the 6105 St Vincent Ave location, where Eco-Mulch accepts tree debris, stumps, pallets and clean wood. And clean concrete.

Examining BODIES REVEALED, coming to Sci-Port: Louisiana's Science Center January 28

2012-01-03T11:58:00.001-08:00

Premier Exhibition's BODIES REVEALED coming to Sci-Port, a photo by Premier Exhibitions on Flickr.

Prepare to see your insides later this month. BODIES REVEALED, an Exhibition featuring carefully preserved real anatomical specimens will be open at Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center on January 28 through May 21 to the public.

“I think people need to be more in touch with the body they live in,” said Roy Glover, Ph.D., chief medical director of the Exhibition. “It’s very important to understand the things we do to it that can care for it or that can harm it. The exhibit puts people in close touch with actual bodies that will help them understand it a lot better.”

Visitors to the Exhibition learn the detailed structure and function of the human body through galleries providing an up-close look inside the skeletal, muscular, reproductive, respiratory, circulatory and other systems of the human body.

Using a revolutionary technique called polymer preservation, the human body specimens to be displayed have been permanently preserved using liquid silicone rubber that is treated and hardened. The end result is a rubberized specimen, preserved to the cellular level, showcasing the complexity of the body’s many bones, muscles, nerves, blood vessels and organs.

Sci-Port will get your blood pumping with daily programs and demonstrations to complement the Exhibition daily from 2 – 5 p.m. from January 28 through May 21.

Oliver! Academy of Children's Theater performances at Riverview TheaterJan 6 and 7, 7 pm, Jan 8, 2 pm; see cast here

2012-01-02T18:13:00.001-08:00

Oliver! Academy Children's Theater; Jan 6, 7, 8, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The OLIVER! cast, says Cynthia Hawkins Whitaker, includes

Oliver Twist . . . . . . . . . . Trevor Van Eaton
Mr. Bumble . . . . . . . . . . Ric Humphries
Widow Corney . . . . . . . . Mary Humphries
Noah Claypole . . . . . . . . Jacob Cowley
Mr. Sowerberry . . . . . . . . Kolby Ledbetter
Mrs. Sowerberry . . . . . . . Courtney Van Eaton
Charlotte . . . . . . . . . . . . . Megan Tinsley
The Artful Dodger . . . . . . John Peyton Pou
Fagin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nate Wasson
Nancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Maddison Gilcrease
Charley Bates . . . . . . . . . Josh Myers
Bet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Madeline Wagnon
Mr. Brownlow . . . . . . . . . . Bryan Wooley
Dr. Grimwig . . . . . . . . . . . Josh Rabalais
Bill Sykes . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christian Dantes
Mrs. Bedwin . . . . . . . . . . . Meagan Tinsley
Old Sally . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kera Shaul
Annie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Karen Wright
Boy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brendan Anderson
Night Watchman . . . . . . . .Brett Stephenson
First Bow Street Runner . .Kolby Ledbetter

Fagin’s Boys . . . . . . . Josh Myers, Isaiah Jones,
Jacob Cowley, Brendan Anderson, Gavin Jones,
Brooke Reedy, Lucia Boyd, Holly Gant,
Bailey Fielder, Carrie Anderson, Kate Davis
Elizabeth Ross, Alexis Balbuena, Journee Bradford,
Emma Cate Dailey, and Rachel Van Doren,
Emily Martinson, Maddie Tinsley

Show times are
Friday Jan 6th at 7pm
Saturday Jan 7th at 7pm
Sunday Jan 8th at 2pm
Tickets $20 and $15.
ACT tickets: 747 8310

On-air chat with Shreveport City Council rep for District G, Attorney Sam Jenkins, at 5 pm, Mon, Jan 2, on KSCL, 91.3 fm

2012-01-01T18:14:00.001-08:00

Attorney Sam Jenkins, City Councilman, District G, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Time for A Better Shreveport, the weekly radio show from the grass roots civic organization A Better Shreveport, takes a look at city issues with attorney Sam Jenkins on Mon, Jan 2, 5 pm.

Jenkins represents District G, West Shreveport, and will discuss the common ground between the priorities of East and West Shreveport.

Also in the Centenary College studio to talk about Shreveport history is cartographer-historian-author Gary Joiner.

Joiner is excited about software, Lidar, that is enabling digital explorers to comb the Louisiana terrain in more detailed way than ever. Joiner has a new CD being released to the public in which he tells the history of the city on the Red River.

Stream at kscl. fm.
Questions, remarks: 869 5297.

Hosts are Robert Trudeau, Carolyn Manning and Loren Demerath.

A Better Shreveport meets at 6 pm Mons in the Wright Bldg, Centenary College. Business is done by 7 pm.

NYE in Shrevetown: a wide array of entertainment choices listed at Shreveport Bossier Fun Guide dot com

2011-12-31T09:14:00.001-08:00

Shreveport: Red River and Neon Bridge, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Looking for more choices in places to sing "Should auld acquaintance be forgot . . ."?

A baker's oven full of choices are listed at ShreveportBossierFunGuide.com.

Be safe.

Bang!

Shreveport Dog Park Alliance continues fund raising with 'Wine & Beer Tasting With a Bite' at Barnwell on Sat, Jan 14, 7 to 10 pm

2011-12-31T08:57:00.001-08:00

Shreveport Dog Park Alliance, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"We are having a fund raiser: Wine and Beer Tasting with a Bite! Sat-Jan 14, 7-10 pm, Barnwell Art Center," says Cynthia Keith.

"The Bite? Wines and beers have animals on the labels! For a $35 donation enjoy the silent auction, live music, funniest animal photo contest, heavy hors d' oeuvres, Lion coffee, Raising Cane's sweet tea and soft drinks."

"See the Shreveport Dog Park Alliance Facebook page (event page: Wine and Beer Tasting with a Bite) for info/funny animal photo entries. Dress in the colors of your pet or animal prints, but please leave pets at home for this one," adds Keith.

Please respond if you are attending, for more info call me at 469-1325.

Cynthia Keith-Top Dog
Shreveport Dog Park Alliance

What to do with the Red River Entertainment District, formerly Shreve Square: put the emphasis on day life rather than night life

2011-12-30T09:28:00.001-08:00

Red River Waterway Visitor Center, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

In the Times editorial "Reboot of Red River District on," Liz Swaine, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority, is quoted thusly, "What is loud and clear is that no one wants to go back to what it was. The desire is for more and different restaurants, amenities such as a bakery, coffee shop, dry cleaner, a place that sells Louisiana-made goods."

The Times pointed out that "the presence of CoHabitat, a shared workspace for professionals who work independently or on a freelance basis, just down the street has spurred new creative interest in the area that needs nourishment to grow."

We agree on emphasizing the day life of the charming space under the bridge. And have some ideas about resetting the tone of the daytime activities.

The district might create an alliance with SciPort and the Red River Waterway Visitor Center. I would like to see a program that send students - or tourists or senior citizens - to all 3 locations, one after the other.

At the District there could be River-centered workshops for students, visitors and senior citizens built around these themes:

1. model boat sketching and building - flatboats, steamboats, futuristic pontoon bridges.
2. architecture of the turn-of-the-century: make sketches and assemble models.
3. music and dance of the Red River valley - making percussion instruments and learning dances.
4. Creating stories and videos about the history of Shreveport based on historic source material. What about the story of the doctor who shot the town bully?
5. Best practices workshop: perusing photos of smart uses of riverfront development in many cities - from Little Rock to London - and making a sketch or writing a dream of how that might be implemented on Shreveport and Bossier's banks.

KSCL at 5 pm on Mon, Dec 26: discussion of the I-49 Connector between Lee Jeter, State Rep Roy Burrell and Kim Mitchell, Shreveport

2011-12-26T14:24:00.001-08:00

Lee Jeter, Roy Burrell, Kim Mitchell, Robert Trudeau, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

In struggling to become a more progressive city, Shreveport citizens are listening to the alternatives being put forth in regards tying I-49 south of the city to I-49 going north.

One of the pressing questions: do we build it through Allendale or not?

Lee Jeter of the Fuller Center, State Rep Roy Burrell and architect/planner Kim Mitchell offer a review of a recent public hearing on the I-49 possibilities.

Stream the program, originally aired on Dec 19, by going to http://kscl.fm.

Or find 91.3 fm on a radio.

Boxing Day Celebration on Mon, Dec. 26, at Burning Spear Cafe, new Caribbean restaurant at 1173 Louisiana Avenue, Shreveport

2011-12-26T09:45:00.001-08:00

Gordon's chicken, a photo by debchrisjoseph on Flickr.

Burning Spear Cafe, a new Caribbean restaurant located at 1173 Louisiana Avenue (formerly Louisiana BBQ) in Shreveport, will host a Boxing Day Celebration on Mon, Dec. 26, says Chris Jay.

The event, beginning at 4 p.m., will feature live music and Caribbean food prepared by Chef Gordon Nurse.

Guests are encouraged to bring an instrument and join the live music performance. BYOB.

(318) 210-8555

Photo Debbie Buchanan Engle.

Lower prices on musical instruments than the internet, promises Don Teach at Shreveport Music on his after-holiday selling

2011-12-25T17:28:00.001-08:00

Fender P Bass Special, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Ever notice the after-holiday sale prices on the Internet are the same as before Christmas?" So asks my long-time friend Don Teach.

"Shreveport Music will have lower prices than the Internet and a real after-Christmas sale. Come see. Make me an offer!"

The Fender P-Bass Special above was purchased from Spt Music and I've been back many times without hesitation to get neck tweaking, etc.

Buy local.

Shreveprt Music is not open on Mondays.

A Better Shreveport-sponsored Holiday Bike Ride in Broadmoor postponed to Tues, Dec 27; begins at Johnny's Pizza at 5:30 pm

2011-12-25T13:28:00.001-08:00

Commuters, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Our Holiday Bike Ride starts at Johnny's Pizza on Preston at 5:30, Tuesday, Dec 27 (postponed a day)," says Stephanie Pedro of A Better Shreveport.

"Hope to see you there! I will have some hot cider for us to sip on before we set off, then beer and pizza at Johnny's afterwards!"

The tour is open to all.

Winter greens are rising at Sankofa Gardens, Shreveport; Sankofa 2012 calendar ready too, says Leia Lewis

2011-12-23T08:57:00.001-08:00

Leia Lewis, Sankofa Gardens, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Sankofa Gardens is a creative community and a fresh food oasis in the Linwood-Caddo Heights area of Shreveport. It is part of a nonprofit organization that is dedicated
to celebrating and cultivating the art, culture, and community life
of people of African descent, says Leia Lewis.

"Our central work is Sankofa Gardens, an organic community garden and
learning campus based in Shreveport, Louisiana. Sankofa Gardens is the
site of creative and educational programming designed to unify community,
strengthen family bonds, and enhance life skills for prosperity among
residents of the Caddo Heights-Linwood area and beyond.

Sankofa Vision, Inc. welcomes people of all backgrounds who seek
personal enrichment and wish to create a better world."

A fundraiser is the deluxe Sankofa Calendar. Suggested donation is $21. See more at Sankofavision.org. Or say hello to Leia 318-230-2892.

Review: Copeland's Shreveport renovation nears completion, food continues tradition at E Bert Kouns near Youree

2011-12-22T08:12:00.001-08:00

Copeland's, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Eggplant Pirogue (fried eggplant slices surrounded by cream sauce and pasta), is a sumptuous, creamy-crunchy, smile-provoking meal.

Based on a lunch enjoyed this week, Eggplant Pirogue at the midday price of 9.99 is a reason that New Orleans-minded diners will include Copeland's in holiday celebrations.

My lunch was delayed by the arrival of an unusual number of large parties, said the manager, so the wait time was offset by complimentary biscuits. Copeland's biscuits are virtually the same as those of Popeyes. They were light and high and managed an aura of both sweetness and saltiness.

Additionally, the meal was sealed with complimentary cheesecake. This gourmand chose the giddily foolish chocolate version. The body was wealthy with goodness; the crust was roegasmic.

Dishes that called my name from the menu included red beans and rice with andouille (6.99) and tomato-basil chicken (8.29).

The recent revamping of Copeland's has not been radical. Today it is perhaps a more open restaurant than ever, with sight lines that enable you to see more of your fellow diners in the main room. The banquet room has large windows facing Bert Kouns and looked like a photographer's dream.

Does stepping into the mahogany world of Copeland's enable one to escape the humdrum world of Shreveport-Bossier?

You'll have to answer that one.

Copeland's hours, menu and online ordering.

Highly recommended.

Performances of the multi-multi-media puppet show Fantastic Mr Fox extended to Jan 15 at Artspace Shreveport

2011-12-21T20:14:00.001-08:00

Fantastic Mr Fox / Artspace Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The creator of the live action / puppet story of Fantastic Mr Fox as seen in New Orleans and Shreveport, Arthur Mintz, writes that "I just wanted to let you know that the Dec. 31st extension of Fantastic Mr. Fox has sold out! We will extend again for a final 2 weeks. Through Jan. 15th."

Pam Atchison and William Joyce, who brought the show to Artspace, have encouraged people who love theater and art and who saw Fox early to see the show one more time.

Atchison declares that she sees Mintz as a wunderkind.

I'm in. Please see my first review here.

Tickets here.

Mister Christopher & Friends entertain at Columbia Cafe, Creswell Ave, Shreveport, on Fri, Dec 23

2011-12-21T15:52:00.001-08:00

Mr Christopher & Friends at Columbia Cafe, Fri, Dec 23, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Tunesmith and multi-instigationist Chris M Alexander will sing for his supper at Columbia Cafe on Fri, Dec 23.

Friends include bluesy-jazzy singer AJ Haynes and Lead Belly aficionado Hayden Camp, formerly of the punktilical Noids and today residing and crooning the blues in Austin, Tx.

Photo Mr Christopher.

Kids and parents: check the holiday expligibles and fortinaciables at SciPort, Louisiana's Science Center on the Shreveport riverfront

2011-12-21T13:56:00.001-08:00

100_3873, a photo by nsu_acs on Flickr.

Holiday programming has begun at Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center and will continue daily from 2 – 5 p.m, says Karen Wissing.

Through December 30, at 2 and 4 p.m., take part in our Toy Making Workshops, where you can make a toy to take home and alleviate some of the stress on Santa’s elves! Toys to make include:

Cartesian Divers: Make a toy where you can see your underwater diver go from the top of the bottom of your water bottle “ocean,” and learn about buoyancy and Pascal’s Law.
Kazoos: Create an instrument that uses your voice and vibration to make music.
Spinning Tops: Explore inertia, friction, gravity and the centrifugal force while making your own top.

As a new program demonstrated daily at 3 p.m., Why Does Rudolph’s Nose Glow is a great addition to family memories made at Sci-Port this holiday season. Rudolph went down in history, but he’s not the only animal that glows! This program will teach visitors how and why some animals and minerals emit light. Participants will be able to examine glowing specimens and see how chemical reactions can result in a colorful show.

Don’t forget about our annual New Year’s at Noon celebration, too! This year, the party will take place between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 31. At Noon, start the New Year off with us as we commemorate our East Asian counterparts as they celebrate their New Year at Midnight. Come celebrate, and learn about the traditions of East Asian cultures, which include our traditional Dragon Dance! Plan to count down to Noon at Sci-Port with a balloon drop.

In addition to Sci-Port’s holiday programs, the popular holiday IMAX films, The Light Before Christmas and Santa vs. the Snowman, are back this season and showing until January 6, 2012. Visit www.sciport.org/IMAX for showtimes.

Robert Sprayberry, Dan Garner, Mark Griffith at Bistro Byronz on Fri, Dec 23, 8 pm

2011-12-19T08:40:00.001-08:00

Robert Sprayberry, Los Angeles / Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Bobby Sprayberry, Mark Griffith & Dan Garner are back for this very special Christmas Eve celebration," says Dan Garner.

Photo Ella Davidson.

Priorities and exigencies in Shreveport's I-49 Connector route: on-air chat with Lee Jeter, Kim Mitchell and Representative Roy Burrell onKSCL at 5 pm, Mon, Dec 19

2011-12-19T02:18:00.001-08:00

Recycling trees: Adriana Poland, Shanace Robinson & Lee Jeter, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"The I-49 Inner City Connector Project is part of the I-49 Corridor which runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana," says i49shreveport.com.

"The I-49 Inner City Connector will be a new interstate facility approximately 3.6 miles in length. It is proposed to intersect Shreveport in order to connect I-49 at the I-20 interchange with I-49 North in the vicinity of the I-220 interchange."

Among the informed voices in the discussion over connector routes is Lee Jeter of the Fuller for Housing, Representative Roy Burrell and planner Kim Mitchell of Morgan Hill Sutton & Mitchell Architects, L.L.C.

They will chat with Robert Trudeau on the program Time for A Better Shreveport on Mon, Dec 19, from 5 - 5:30 pm. The program broadcasts live from KSCL, Centenary College, at 91.3 fm.

Stream at http://kscl.fm.
Questions or remarks at 869 5297.

Non-traditional holiday dinner featuring local ingredients as prepared by Andrew Parsons, Shreveport, on KTBS on Tues morn, Dec 20

2011-12-19T02:03:00.001-08:00

Andrew Parsons, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Tuesday morning I’ll be at KTBS-3’s studio doing a segment on a non-traditional holiday dinner using as many local ingredients as possible," says Andrew Parsons.

"We’ll have a micro green salad, grilled duck and shrimp, herbed sweet potato, okra and shiitake mushrooms, and Perrin’s fig cake with a Satsuma frosting."

"Ninety percent of the ingredients used will be grown and/ or raised in the Ark-La-Tex."

Parsons won the attention of local foodies in Nov when he prepared a raw food / vegan Thanksgiving meal.

www.lagniappefoodsshreveport.com (318) 458-0830

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore on LPB on Thurs, Dec 15, 7 pm

2011-12-15T15:18:00.001-08:00

Morris Lessmore / Moonbot Studios, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Grab a rare airing of "The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore," says LPB.

"Tonight at 7, William Joyce & Brandon Oldenburg of Shreveport's Moonbot Studios will be in the LPB studios - see their poignant short film "The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore," plus life behind the scenes at the studio. Check out their fabulous iPad app, too."

ShreveportHappyHour.com Unwind Downtown Pub and Culture Crawl on Thurs, Dec 15, 5 to 9 pm, begins at Artspace, 710 Texas St

2011-12-14T08:54:00.001-08:00

Shreveport: Texas St, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

ShreveportHappyHour.com Unwind Downtown Pub and Culture Crawl

Unwind Downtown Thurs, Dec 15, 5:00pm - 9:00pm. Come out to the December Pub Crawl in your favorite Christmas attire!! Wear an ugly Christmas sweater from your past, or go buy one. Personalize your sweater to show your festive, humorous, or sexy side; take your Christmas threads and cut, glue, tape, and/or pin things to your outfit and express your uniqueness. Start early on your Holiday celebration with good company downtown Dec. 15th, with the ShreveportHappyHour Pub Crawl.

Registration begins at 5:00pm at Artspace. Feel free to join us at any time as there will be plenty of drink specials
This Month's Participants:
Artspace
Ernest Orlean's Restaurant
Lake St Dance Hall
Noble Savage
Sandbar
Anyone 21 or older can register at Artspace from 5:00pm - 9:00pm (710 Texas Street). You will receive a free passport to direct you to the participating locations. Preregister at http://www.shreveporthappyhour.com/unwind/

Luke Thomas Eddy performs David Sedaris' The Santaland Diaries at MLP; adult show opens Th, Dec 15, 8 pm and continues to Dec 18

2011-12-13T22:07:00.001-08:00

Luke Eddy, a photo by jonbolden on Flickr.

The Santaland Diaries, written by David Sedaris, takes us behind the cardboard candy canes and fake snow of Macy's Santaland in New York City, says Luke Eddy.

Guided by our not-so-friendly elf, Crumpet, we get to see what it's really like to be one of Santa's little helpers as they usher clueless tourists, obsessive parents and a slew of misbehaving children through their make-shift winter wonderland.

Make no mistake, our foul-mouthed little elf is here to skewer the holidays with a healthy helping of sarcasm.

This hour-long, one-man show starring Luke Thomas Eddy will open Dec 15 and run for one weekend only with performances Dec 15, 16 and 17 at 8 pm with a closing performance on Dec 18 at 2 pm.

$15 for adults, $12 for seniors and military, $10 for Centenary and non-Centenary College students with a valid ID.

Tickets can be reserved by leaving a message on the box office voicemail at 869-5242.

The Marjorie Lyons Playhouse is located on Wilkinson Street between Woodlawn Avenue and Alexander Street.

This show is rated-R due to adult language.

Bass Cats Ensemble to perform Dec 17, 18 at Riverview Theater in advance of the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concerts

2011-12-13T18:21:00.001-08:00

Bass Cats Ensemble / photo DR , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Chris Allen is directing a new group of upright bass players called the “Bass Cats” that will be performing on December 17th and 18th, says Allen.

If you arrive at the Shreveport Symphony concert a little early on those dates, you’ll hear Chris and five of his students playing holiday music in the lobby of the Riverview Theatre beginning around 7 pm.

The ensemble is fashioned after San Francisco bassist Barry Green’s “Green Man Group,” a dozen bass students who perform and tour together. Barry Green is known by symphony musicians as the guy who wrote “The Inner Game of Music,” a book dealing with the psychological aspect of music performance, which most serious musicians have read at one time or another.

Future information about the ensemble will be posted at www.chrisallenbass.com.

Benefit for LaTonia Barto at Fairfield Studios featuring Dirtfoot and Songbird on Fri, Dec 16, beginning at 7 pm

2011-12-13T15:45:00.001-08:00

LaTonia Barto, West Edge Art Market, La Boardwalk / Lynn Laird, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Latonia Barto is an artist and wonderful woman in her third round of battling against cancer whose husband Joey works here at Fairfield Studios," explains Clint McCommon. "To help the family, there will be a benefit at Fairfield Studios this Friday at 7pm. Dirtfoot and Songbird will be performing. There will also be an art auction with all proceeds going towards the Barto Family."

$7 donation at the door to attend. City Bar is sponsoring a cash bar with portion of those proceeds going to the Barto family as well.

Clinton McCommon, Manager, Fairfield Studios (M) 318 780-5924

Oliver! Academy of Children's Theater on Jan 6, 7 and 8 at RiverviewTheater, Shreveport

2011-12-13T05:17:00.001-08:00

Oliver! Academy Children's Theater , a photo by Terri Eddington on Flickr.

The Academy of Children's Theatre will present the classic musical, Oliver!, at the Riverview Theatre in Shreveport
on Jan. 6 and 7 at 7:00 p.m. and Jan. 8 at 2:00, says Cynthia Whitaker.

The popular holiday show is the musical version of Charles Dickens's famous novel, Oliver Twist.

The local production boasts a cast of 40 of the most talented young performers in our area along with regional theatre adult actors including Nate Wasson as Fagin, Maddison Gilcrease as Nancy, Christian Dantes as Bill Sykes, John Peyton Pou as Dodger, and Trevor VanEaton as Oliver.

Tickets for the production are $15.00 for students, seniors (55 an older) and military, and $20.00 for adults.

Box office: 318-741-8310.

Angie White, Slow Food North La, and Martha Marak, Food Bank of NW La, guests on Time for A Better Shreveport, KSCL, Mon, Dec 12, 5 pm

2011-12-12T10:47:00.001-08:00

Highland Blues & Jazz: Angie White, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Guests for Time for A Better Shreveport, Mon, Dec 12, are Angie White, who will
talk about the Slow Food movement - http://www.slowfoodnla.com/ - as
well as her econ dev work.

And Martha Marak, director of Food Bank
NWLa. - http://www.foodbanknla.org/index.cfm - who will talk about an
institution that is one of the city's proudest points of light.

Co-host is Carolyn Manning.

Stream at kscl.fm
Questions straight to the interview booth: 869 5297.

Review: Logan Sledge, Richard Folmer and Donna McKechnie evoke 1940's family dynamics in The Subject was Roses, River City Rep; show continues Sat, Dec 10, 7:30 pm, and Sun, Dec 11, 3 pm

2011-12-10T12:09:00.001-08:00

Logan Sledge, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Exploring the nuances at play in a 1940's American family was surprisingly satisfying on Fri as River City Repertory opened The Subject was Roses.

A somber drama, Roses has no big secrets - no incest, no abortions, no diabolical abuse. Thus the weight of the show falls to the skill of the director and cast.

Donna McKechnie, veteran stage performer from NYC, became the embodiment of Middle American Mom. Richard Folmer, a dean of acting in this region, matched her as the Classic, Conflicted Dad. The question was whether young actor Logan Sledge might have the chemistry to inject salt and vinegar into their predictable lives.

On Fri night Sledge brought the timing, the empathy and ever-so slight edge, as well as the warmth, to the role of the son. The son who has returned from WWII and who may or may not fulfill his parents' goals.

Director Patric McWilliams has taken Sledge, slim and a subtly sexy guy, into a series of roles in River City Rep (in Doubt, The Rose Tattoo, The Lion in Winter among them) that offer this audience a portrait of a growing and affecting young actor. The Subject was Roses represents a quiet flowering of that partnership.

RiverCityRep. org
About 2 hours running time.

Celebrate Highland: A Holiday Home Tour is a bi-annual event on Sat, Dec 10, and Sun, Dec 11

2011-12-09T21:06:00.001-08:00

Fairfield Ave, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Kenney Koonce recommends, "Celebrate Highland: A Holiday Home Tour. This bi-annual event happens Sat, Dec 10, and Sun, Dec 11. There are 13 stops on this tour, giving you a glimpse into historic homes ranging in style from cozy bungalows, stately four-squares, and gracious Southern Colonial mansions. We have grand Fairfield Avenue mansions built by the founding father's of Shreveport, one with a tie to the White House."

"Come enjoy a cool evening and see why more and more people are moving back to our historic city center," adds Koonce.

Highland Restoration Association

River City Rep on Fri, Dec 9, 7:30 pm, Sat, Dec 10 and Sun, Dec 11, 3pm: The Subject Was Roses

2011-12-09T06:36:00.001-08:00

River City Rep: The Subject Was Roses, a photo by RCRT on Flickr.

"This is a unique opportunity for Shreveport theatre-goers to see a Tony Award winner/ Broadway icon in River City Repertory Theatre's production of The Subject was Roses," says director Patric McWilliams.

The show stars Donna McKechnie, Tony winner for the original A Chorus Line, and opens December 9 at 7:30 pm.

Logan Sledge and Richard Folmer share the stage with McKechnie.

The additional performances are December 10 (7:30 pm) and December 11 (3 p.m.) Call 318-868-5888 for reservations and additional information.

Rest in peace Jerelyn Gilstrap, independent theatrical producer and director of Shreveport

2011-12-06T09:19:00.001-08:00

Jerilyn Gilstrap, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

This weekend, as the 4-character drama Two Rooms was being performed at minicine?, the life and breath of the director/producer of that play, Jerelyn Gilstrap, collapsed.

Gilstrap had suffered bouts of severe health issues for years. Yet she kept herself alive by seeing the necessity of producing another drama to feed the intellectual needs of a small group of literary-minded Shreveporters.

The players completed their performances in Two Rooms.

A veteran of dramatic productions in Washington, DC and NYC, Gilstrap arrived in Shreveport in 2008 with a mission to produce the fiercely intellectual drama Copenhagen.

Between hospitalizations she lost most of the cast and crew and the site of that drama. Gilstrap, a well-read woman of uncommon determination, was not deterred. Eventually her production of Copenhagen took place at the LSUS Black Box Theater.

"Rather than a funeral home memorial service - which we know she would detest - we have decided to have a lunch-time friends and family get-together," wrote her sister, Jenean.

See more on the artful life of Gilstrap at her JCG Productions blog.

Shreveport Songs: ALEX SNOOK JONES - For My Worst (Blue Boy, circa 1965)

2011-12-05T15:04:00.000-08:00

Alex "Snook" Jones photograph, undated.

Announcing a new post over at the Shreveport Songs blog...

Alex “Snook” Jones apparently spent more time playing piano around Shreveport than hanging out in studios cutting records. Nevertheless, he did leave a small legacy of recordings.

Around 1965, Jones recorded a 45 issued on Blue Boy Records. The credits state that he composed both songs while Harding Guyon Demarais (aka Dee Marais) handled the publishing. No other records have surfaced on this label, so perhaps it was a vanity project financed by Jones. The guitar playing reminds me of Shreveporter Jesse Thomas, though I’ve yet to uncover evidence supporting his involvement.

For the complete story and one of Jones's songs, see:
http://shreveportsongs.blogspot.com/2011/12/alex-snook-jones-for-my-worst-blue-boy.html

Requiescat in pace, Maestro John Schenaut, founding director of the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra

2011-12-04T18:43:00.001-08:00

Maestro John Schenaut, Shreveport Symphony, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The year was 1948 and post-war Shreveport wondered what to do with itself. It was not clear that the US would muscle its way into a new era of prosperity.

Jimmie Davis' term as governor ended in 1948, says CaddoHistory.com. The governor hit the road as a full fledged entertainer, fronting his Sunshine Band. 1948 was also the year that KWKH first broadcast the Louisiana Hayride.

But there were music lovers in Shreveport who wanted to experience performances of something other than pop music. They coalesced around young violinist John Shenaut. On their minds was the founding of an orchestra and an opera.

Surely it was a struggle. In fact, Shreveport had already seen the formation and dissolution of a symphonic orchestra in the 1930's.

But the team used the charming Mr. Shenaut to galvanize a new effort.

Maestro Shenaut became the leader and the face of an organization that grew into an institution, the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra. He lead the SSO for some 30 years.

On Dec 2, 2011, Shenaut died. A vigil will be held on Tues, Dec 6, from 4:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Rose Neath Funeral Home, 1815 Marshall St., says the SSO. Visitation will follow from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

A funeral mass will take place at 11 a.m. on Wed, Dec 7, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 211 Atlantic Avenue, Shreveport.

The Maestro was well honored by Shreveport during his long life. The photo of Shenaut in wheelchair above was taken during a SSO concert in 2007 dedicated to his enduring energy.

Cole Brand, TEDx Red River series, and Deborah Allen, Philadelphia Center, chat on Time for A Better Shreveport on KSCL Monday at 5 pm

2011-12-04T16:39:00.001-08:00

TEDx Red River series: Jeff Spikes, Clint McCommon, Marjorie Kouns, Cole Brand, John Grindley, Margo Shideler, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Cole Brand, former Houstonian, is taking the lead in planning the speakers and sites comprised in the TEDx Red River series (Technology Entertainment and Design; the X means it's an indie). The programs begin in January.

Deborah Allen is associated with the Philadelphia Center and is a community activist with numerous causes in hand.

Both will chat on-air at KSCL, Centenary radio, 5 to 5:30 pm on Monday. The program is Time for A Better Shreveport. Hosts are Robert Trudeau, Loren Demerath and Carolyn Manning.

Meetings of A Better Shreveport are open to all and take place on Mons, 6 pm to 7 pm. This week's meeting is a social mixer and takes place at Lake St Dance Hall.

Marabella Dunn, Shreveport, presents Backbone of Life series at the Barnwell Center; Thurs, Dec 1, 6:30 - 8:30 pm opening party for 3 shows

2011-12-01T14:21:00.001-08:00

Marabella Dunn, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The Backbone of Life series, mixed media works by artist Marabella Dunn, is one of 3 exhibits opening at the Barnwell, Shreveport, on Th, Dec 1.

In the Wafer Gallery is a student show from Rebecca Francis. In the Main Gallery is a juried show of photography, painting and more called Holiday Art Show.

Eric Brock dead at age 45; author made steady and widely-appreciated contributions to Shreveport history

2011-11-30T20:08:00.001-08:00

Shannon & Eric Brock, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Eric Brock, gifted spieler of the story of Shreveport, "died this afternoon as a result of a heart attack and stroke suffered Thanksgiving night. He was 45." So wrote John Andrew Prime in a glowing obituary in The Times.

Brock seemed born a historian of the community; as a youth he amassed materials on Shreveport such as photos and postcards.

His columns on Shreveport history - written for the Shreveport Journal and Forum News - were detailed, readable and appreciated.

Four Brock books on Shreveport history are currently on sale at amazon.com.

Brock lived well, tooling around town in a Mercedes and smoking cigars. Quick of wit and energized by stimulating conversation, Brock seemed ever considerate of his audience.

"Brock's survivors include his widow, the former Shannon Glasheen, who helped him with much of his research since their marriage six years ago," wrote Prime.

Where to find jazz in Shreveport: Christopher Allen and Winston Hall Thurs nights at 2Johns Restaurant, Bossier City

2011-11-30T16:19:00.001-08:00

Christopher Allen, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"We have live entertainment every night at the bar," says John Montelpre of 2Johns Restaurant.

"Tuesday it's pianist Drew Ley and, on Wednesday, pianist Winston Hall.

Thursday is Jazz Night with Winston Hall and bassist Chris Allen.

Friday is Drew Ley and Saturday we present Sam Halphen."

2Johns
2151 Airline Drive Suite 1500
Bossier City, LA 71111
Phone: 318.841.5646

Wideman International Piano Competition on Fri through Sun, Dec 2 - 4, brings 41 top-ranked performers to Anderson Auditorium, Centenary College,Shreveport

2011-11-30T14:27:00.001-08:00

Wideman Piano Competition contestants, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"The Wideman competition is coming up this week-end!" writes Lester Senter Wilson.

"Performances are Friday, Dec 2, from 11:15 to 1, 2:30 to 6 and Sat, Dec 3, from 9:30 to 1 ,2:30 to 6.

On Sunday, Dec 4, -1 to 6 pm, we will have finals at Centenary - at the Hurley School of Music, Anderson Auditorium."

"We have 41 terrific pianists this year. Stop in and have a listen and give a cheer!"

Teens of SLTA perform The Laramie Project at Shreveport Little Theaterfrom Th, Dec 1 through Sun, Dec 4

2011-11-29T19:33:00.001-08:00

road shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The Laramie Project, a play by Moises Kaufman and the members of Tectonic Theatre Project, will be performed at Shreveport Little Theater this week, says Robert Darrow.

Directed by Nate Wasson, it stars Chris White and a group of teens who are developing their stagecraft at the academy, SLTA.

The play tells the story of the aftermath of the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard in
Laramie, Wyoming.

Set Design by Tom Serio
Lighting Design by David White

Info and tickets at shreveportlittletheater.com.

In the Heights at The Strand Theatre on Thurs, Dec 1, 7:30 pm

2011-11-29T13:58:00.001-08:00

IMG_0238, a photo by coffeeisgreen on Flickr.

In The Heights is the kind of musical that comes around once in a generation, says the Strand. It builds on the best traditions of theater while forging new territory.

In the Heights tells the universal story of a vibrant community in Manhattan's Washington Heights – a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music.

It's a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind.

Winner of 4 Tony Awards in 2008: Best Musical, Best Score, Best Choreography, Best Orchestrations

For tickets and more information:
http://www.thestrandtheatre.com
(318) 226-1481

I-49 Brass Quintet, Shreveport, presents Christmas Concert on Monday, Dec. 5, 7 pm, Broadmoor Presbyterian; proceeds benefit Salvation Army

2011-11-29T07:47:00.001-08:00

I-49 Brass Quintet, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The I-49 Brass Quintet will present a public Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 5 in the sanctuary at Broadmoor Presbyterian Church of Shreveport, says Lynn Stewart.

The event will feature a variety of holiday favorites performed by quintet members Rick Rowell and Mike Scarlato on trumpets, Tom Hundemer on French horn, Mark Thompson on bass trombone and Mike Davidson on tenor trombone.

Tickets, $10 per person, are available in the church office and at the door. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Salvation Army.

The church is located at 1915 Grover Place in Shreveport’s Broadmoor neighborhood. For further information, call 318-868-3659.

Edgy work? Swanky Louisiana? Look at artist-framed prints by Robert E Trudeau at Artspace Shreveport on display through the holidays

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Alonzo / Trudeau 09, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Portraits of soulful Louisianians rendered in detailed pen-and-ink are something I plan to pursue until a body of work has been amassed. I see these portraits as part of Louisiana history. More importantly, these portraits lavish attention on subjects not chosen for their model-like appeal or conventional handsomeness." Thus says mixed-media artist Robert E Trudeau of his work.

Prints on display at Artspace Shreveport are $25.

Black-painted pine board is the new framing for the Louisiana Faces prints. "Gluing prints to a board is in the tradition of Louisiana folk art and is true to the tone of my sketches," says Trudeau.

Non-framed prints - on card stock - are $10. See a slideshow for choices of subjects. Prints can be rendered in red or blue ink, btw.

"These prints of my sketches are not commodities," says Trudeau. "They represent stories of the intersection of my life with local characters. If you buy a sketch you can get more than something to hang on a wall. You have an opening into the life of an artist who invests thought and care into rendering soulful views of earthy people."

The latest and greatest attraction in Shreveport: Coates Bluff NatureTrail, a romantic woods path that connects Montessori School for Shreveport, Stoner Elementary and Caddo Magnet High

2011-11-25T17:40:00.001-08:00

Highland Blues & Jazz Fest: Chris Brown, Sara Smith, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Great trail. Party of 10, plus 5 dogs, loved it," reported Chris Brown on Friday as he introduced his family to the Coates Bluff Nature Trail.

When you're ready to walk the half-mile path, you can park at Caddo Magnet High / Valencia Park or at Montessori School for Shreveport.

The path runs parallel to the mostly-dry Bayou Pierre river bed.

Sycamores, hackberry trees, native pecan, rattan and switch cane are typical of the growth on the trail. There are 2 tree trunks to crawl over and one fallen tree to crawl under. There's a beaver lodge on the watery section.

Find photos and maps here.

International biotic of performers streaming electronic music from Berlin on Sat, Nov 26, all night

2011-11-25T08:25:00.001-08:00

IMG_1544, a photo by justien on Flickr.

"Installations and performances that manipulate spaces, real, virtual, and imagined will be streamed from Berlin's Lab for Electronic Arts and Performance on Nov 26," announces Peter Kirn, electronic music performer and writer who has recently relocated from NYC to Berlin.

"New works make noises with reel-to-reel tape, code, mechanical percussion, and more. I’ll be playing a live set with Pd, producing granular architectures from the harmonious sounds of piano and synth. And a highlight promises to be Robert Henke (of Monolake and Ableton fame, among other things), performing an epic 12-hour performance."

Kirn authors the sites Create Digital Music and Create Digital Motion. Videos, stills and descriptions of the Berlin performances will be found there.

Feast of the Senses, Fri, Nov 25, minicine, 846 Tex Ave, features music, art and fire performances and needs fire assistants

2011-11-24T10:17:00.001-08:00

Maker's Fair / Shreveport / Nov '11: Peter Fetterman, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"We need people to stand guard with fire extinguishers by each fire barrel. 7 total fires, 7 locations, 6 hours max," says John Christopher Martin at Feast of the Senses, a celebration at minicine on Fri, Nov 25, beginning at 8 pm.

"I'm looking just to get 2 hour shifts covered
or 1 hour, from 8-2," adds Martin.

Feast Of The Senses is an all ages fundraiser in support of Steve Godfrey's 5000 mile, 3 1/2 month LA-TX bicycle tour, Tour de Life, @ biketourdelife.org.

This Feast is to raise money for the trip.
- On exhibit will be a number of 5 foot square art pieces on the walls of the Courtyard at Minicine, each by an anonymous local artist. They are to be auctioned during the show by guest MC Zoozoo Haha.

A central Fire Sculpture by Jay Marks will be set up to illuminate the courtyard.

Fire Poi performances by Justin Clark and others TBA will be shown for your eye feasting! We are asking that all guests respect our No Artificial Light policy during the event. All safety measures will be taken, and we ask your cooperation with keeping the event family oriented!!

Musical groups include: Riverwolves, The Bellys, Rinkus, Winterbabies, The One-Armed Man, and Drum Militia.

A burrito stand will be setup as well.

See the schedule and volunteer by checking the Feast page on Facebook.

Art purchases for the holidays? Enjoy shopping for paintings, sketches, jewelry and objets at Artspace Shreveport, 710 Tex Street

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Artspace Shreveport / fine arts survey, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Jewelry, paintings, sketches: a holiday artopia has been installed at Artspace with you, the art lover, in mind. Choose from work by 17 juried artists and artisans.

Carol Connell Shafton Conchita Iglesias McElwee
Contina Pierson Hooshang Khorasani
Kristye Addison Dudley
Karen Johnson
Kathryn Usher
Liane Goessens
Laura Noland Harter
Mary Caroline Spano
Rod Talbot
Robert E Trudeau
Trish Farnsworth-Smith
Taffie Cragon Garsee
Talbot Hopkins Trudeau Theresa Mormino
Wendy Leaumont

See more at artspaceshreveport.com

Donna McKechnie, Richard Folmer and Logan Sledge in The Subject Was Roses for River City Repertory Theatre on Dec 9 & 10, 7:30 pm, Dec 11, 3 pm

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Donna McKechnie, actress, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Tony Award winner Donna McKechnie will star in River City Repertory Theatre’s 2011-12 season opener, Frank D. Gilroy’s The Subject was Roses, says Patric McWilliams. River City Rep, North Louisiana’s only professional theatre company, is starting its sixth season.

The Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning play (1965) focuses on a young veteran, newly returning from WWII, and his strained relationship with his parents. The play was made into an Academy Award
winning film in 1968 starring Patricia Neal, Jack Albertson and Martin Sheen.

Logan Sledge and Richard Folmer complete the three-character cast.

McKechnie won a Tony Award as Best Actress in a Musical for the original production of Michael Bennett’s A Chorus Line.

The play is directed by River City Rep’s Artistic Director, Patric McWilliams. Light Design is by David Gipson. Set and Costume Design are by McWilliams. Original Music/Sound Design is by Kermit Poling.

Wig Design is by Paul Huntley.

December 9-10 @ 7:30 p.m.
December 11 @ 3:00 p.m.
Riverview Theatre
601 Clyde Fant Parkway in downtown Shreveport

All seats $35.00
Student/Military discount 30 minutes prior to each curtain. All seats $10.00 with valid I.D.

Box office is open.
Reservations and information, 318-868-5888

For additional information www.rivercityrep.org

Adults Only version of the Fantastic Mr Fox at Artspace Shreveport on Thurs, Dec 8, 8:30 pm, and Thurs, Dec 15, 8:30 pm

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Fantastic Mr Fox / Artspace Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Feeling Foxy but want, asks Julia Foley, an Adults Only show?

Get your tickets for the Only Two Fantastic Mr. Fox shows for Adults Only

- Thursday, Dec. 8 at 8:30 pm
- Thursday, Dec. 15 at 8:30 pm!!

Only 70 tickets total available and they are going fast - get yours now at http://artspaceshreveport.com/fantastic-mr-fox/fantastic-mr-fox-show-times/

Holiday Pops concert by the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra at Riverview Theater on Sat, Dec 17, 7:30 pm, and Sun, Dec 18, 2:30 pm

2011-11-21T17:16:00.001-08:00

Mozart Requiem at St John's: Christian Zweib, Alexis Barnett, Kristina Vaskas-Haas, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Celebrate the holidays in style with the amazing soprano Twyla Robinson, the SSO and the Holiday Pops Children's Chorus, says Michael Butterman.

A memorable and fun evening filled with seasonal favorites, our toe-tapping Holiday Pops concerts will put you in a festive mood. Twyla is a graduate of Centenary College, and we're excited to welcome her home for the holidays!

This year, we've added a matinee performance. These concerts are expected to sell out, so get your tickets early!

Holiday Pops
with Twyla Robinson, soprano,
and the Holiday Pops Children's Chorus
Saturday, December 17 - 7:30 PM
Sunday, December 18 - 2:30 PM
Riverview Theatre

Highland Jazz & Blues Fest rolls from noon to 5 pm on Sat, Nov 19; free music

2011-11-18T15:41:00.001-08:00

vendors, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Hope to see you there tomorrow, fellow citizens of Shrevetown, and stand in line with you at Carolyn's Tacos, Marilynn's Place red beans & rice and Burning Spear jerk chicken.

Danny Schmidt and Carrie Elkin at Fairfield Studios in the acoustic House Series on Sun, Nov 20, 7 pm

2011-11-17T07:54:00.001-08:00

Danny Schmidt and Carrie Elkin, a photo by blueathena7 on Flickr.

Danny Schmidt and Carrie Elkin sometimes get on the stage together despite their solo careers, says Jim Huckabay.
.
They are a romantic partnership in real life. So the two on stage together makes for
a classic case of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts, thinks Huckabay.

They will be joined by Texas master songsmith Sam Baker. He's been likened to a ..."Leonard Cohen, if Cohen had been a Baptist raised in west Texas".

Sun, Nov 20, 7 PM, Fairfield Studios, 1510 Fairfield Avenue. $20 admission. Reservations recommended. Reserve at www.shreveporthouseconcerts.org or email: reservations@fairfieldstudios.com or call 318 219 7688.

Take the TNT on Thurs, Nov 17, 5 to 8 pm; trolley tour picks up riders who are shopping for art and listening to music - this month, Tchai - at Artspace, 710 Texas St

2011-11-15T15:58:00.001-08:00

Downtown trolley, Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"All aboard the TNT Express; the Free Thursday Night Trolley tour which rolls through Downtown Shreveport every third Thursday of the month," says Bonne' Summers.

The trolley takes visitors to downtown art, cultural and science attractions including museums, galleries and historical sites. Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, leaving from artspace!

The Nov TNT Express takes you to a Night at the Museums!

This month's tour explodes with Art & Culture at

Louisiana State Exhibit Museum
(Blue Dogs, Cajuns & Russians on the Red River)

Spring Street Museum
"Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1873″

Sci-Port Science Center
"Sustainable Choices: Living today with tomorrow in mind"

and
artspace
"Presents" – a one-stop Holiday Shopping Experience

Musical entertainment by the quartet TCHAI

For more information including this month's destinations, contact the Shreveport Regional Arts Council at (318) 673-6500 or artspace at (318) 673-6535.

Sat, Nov 19, season closer for Shreveport Farmer's Market; shop 8 am til noon for holiday booty

2011-11-15T08:25:00.001-08:00

Shreveport Farmer's Market, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Shoppers are encouraged to visit Shreveport Farmer's Market from 8:00 a.m. to noon on Sat, Nov 19, to pick up all needs for Thanksgiving tables, and for storing for winter, says Noma Fowler-Sandlin. It is the the final market day of 2011 for Shreveport Farmers' Market.

An array of fresh vegetables, frozen meats, eggs, pecans, and delicious desserts to share with your friends and family are available. Many vendors are having specials on canned goods like jams and jellies. Gift items are also presently available for those looking for holiday presents.

The market, which is located in Festival Plaza at 101 Crockett Street, runs seasonally, and will be returning in 2012 on Saturday, June 2. For more information, call (318) 455-5788, or visit www.shreveportfarmersmarket.com.

Highly recommended: Nashville soulsters Kira Small & Bryan Beller on Wed, Nov 16, Lake St Dance Hall, Shreveport

2011-11-13T19:25:00.001-08:00

Wed, Nov 16, Lake St Dance Hall, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The sound of the keyboard-vocals-bass duo of Kira Small & Bryan Beller reminds me of Bonnie Raitt. The Nashville duo may offer perfect music for an early evening - 7 pm to 10 pm - at Lake St Dance Hall on Wed night.

Catch them on video.

Btw, if you're a guitar aficionado, let it be known that Beller also performs in the Aristocrats with Guthrie Govan.

Highland Jazz & Blues Fest 2011, Sat, Nov 19, noon to 5 pm

2011-11-13T16:37:00.001-08:00

Highland Jazz & Blues Fest 2011, Sat, Nov 19, noon to 5 pm, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Splendid array of musicians at the Highland Jaz & Blues Fest on Sat, Nov 19, including the eminent ambassadors of New Orleans soul, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

There are still volunteer positions open at beer and coke booths and in logistic aid. To offer a couple of hours of service please email Stephanie Pedro at stephanie@vicinibuild.com.

Cirque de la Symphonie repeat performance with Shreveport Symphony Orchestra on Sun, Nov 13, 2:30 pm

2011-11-13T09:11:00.001-08:00

Cirque de la Symphonie / Shreveport Symphony Orchestra , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The aerial work, juggling and comedy of Cirque de la Symphonie was stellar on Sat night at the SSO concert.

Seated in row B, we watched with suspense, awe and satisfaction as the staid Riverview Hall - packed house - was electrified by the Cirque performers.

The Sun at 2:30 pm concert is a new (once it was a staple of the SSO agenda) opportunity, occasioned by demand.

Highly recommended.

More at the SSO site.

Take home "Tequila Renae Williams" for $50 from Artspace during exhibit called Presents; opening party Fri, Nov 11, 5:30 - 8 pm

2011-11-09T15:54:00.001-08:00

Tequila Williams, red ink, Aug, 2011, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Artspace will host a Holiday-themed Opening Party for the exhibit "Presents" on Nov 11, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Partiers will be the first to shop and meet the artists, says Megan Porter.

All purchases will get a 10% discount along with free gift wrapping - on Fri night only.

Listen to music by Mr. Christopher and AJ Haynes. Admission is $10 person.

Items purchased at artspace, either in PRESENTS or in our year-round giftshop “giftspace,”support regional artists. Shopping can also be done online through the giftspace e-boutique.

Artists included in the show are:

Carol Connell Shafton
Conchita Iglesias McElwee
Contina Pierson
Hooshang Khorasani
Kristye Addison
Dudley Karen Johnson
Kathryn Usher
Liane Goessens
Laura Noland Harter
Mary Caroline Spano
Rod Talbot
Robert E Trudeau
Trish Farnsworth-Smith
Taffie Cragon Garsee
Talbot Hopkins Trudeau
Theresa Mormino
Wendy Leaumont

The exhibit will be open Nov 12 through Jan 7.

Coates Bluff Nature Trail re-opening get together Sat, Nov 12, 8:30 - 11:30 am at Montessori School for Shreveport

2011-11-07T19:23:00.001-08:00

Magnet Shreveport: geography class Coates Bluff Trail hike , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Maintenance has been completed on the Coates Bluff Nature Trail, says Jon Soul.

Sat, Nov. 12, is the official trail opening.

8:30 - 11:30AM -- parking, bathrooms, and info tables available at Montessori School for Shreveport (MSS).

Meet trail-loving people from
- MSS
- Stoner Hill Elementary
- Valencia Rec Center
- Stoner Hill Neighborhood Association
- Caddo Magnet High
- Centenary College
- A Better Shreveport
- Walter B. Jacobs Nature Park

Info: jonksoul@gmail.com

Shreveport Symphony Orchestra's Cirque de la Symphonie concert Sat, Nov12, 7:30 pm, and Sun, Nov 13, 2:30 pm, Riverview Theater

2011-11-07T10:52:00.001-08:00

Cirque de la Symphonie, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The magic of the circus returns to fly above the musicians as aerial fliers, acrobats, contortionists, jugglers and dancers share the stage with the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra. This was a sell-out event when Cirque was with us last time, says Lois Robinson.

Sat, Nov 12, 7:30 pm,
Sun, Nov 13, 2:30 pm
Riverview Theater

See more on SSO tickets. And see video of Cirque in the air.

Baroque Artists of Shreveport peform at Hurley School of Music, Anderson Auditorium, Centenary College, Sun, Nov 6, 3 pm

2011-11-03T16:35:00.001-07:00

Baroque Artists of Shreveport , a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Violinist Laura Crawford returns to the Baroque Artists of Shreveport on Sun, Nov 6, 3 pm, says Ruth Drummond.

The septet will perform work from Handel, Marais, Albinoni, Telemann and Biber, says Drummond.

Dan Santilices, Sally Horak, Theresa Zale-Bridges, Gay Grosz and Cathy DeRousse complete the list of performers.

The site is the acoustically rich Anderson Auditorium at Centenary College.

The BAS season schedule includes concerts on Jan 15, Mar 11 and May 6, 2012.

Moonbot Studios and Shreveport itself anointed by reporters from the Atlantic Monthly

2011-11-02T15:53:00.001-07:00

Moonbots Brandon Oldenberg, Adam Volker and Joe Bluhm, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

A lengthy article in Atlantic Monthly gives Moonbot Studios google-eyes and Shreveport the benefit of the doubt in such measure that a publicist would weep with joy.

It is entitled "How to Build the Pixar of the iPad Age in Shreveport, Louisiana."

Well, you will say: Moonbot has earned the media's bedroom eyes. Indeed it has.

Says the Atlantic, "Morris Lessmore may be the best iPad book in the world. In July, Morris Lessmore hit the number one spot on Apple's iPad app chart in the US. That is to say, Morris Lessmore wasn't just the bestselling book, but the bestselling *app* of any kind for a time. At one point or another, it has been the top book app in 21 countries. A New York Times reviewer called it "the best," "visually stunning," and "beautiful." Wired.com called it "game-changing." MSNBC said it was "the most stunning iPad app so far." And The Times UK made this prediction, "It is not inconceivable that, at some point in the future, a short children's story called 'The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore' will be regarded as one of the most influential titles of the early 21st century."

Read on to learn more about the roles of Bill Joyce and Christina Ellis in the story of Moonbot and Shreveport. You'll also catch a vibe as the Atlantic reporters visit Artspace and "The Fantastic Mr Fox."

Toomasooba.com: graphic-based art by Jeremy Johnson at Lilah's Deli &Bakery in November

2011-11-02T05:46:00.001-07:00

Toomasooba.com / Jeremy Johnson art & photo, a photo loaded by trudeau on Flickr.

Jeremy Johnson is a designer and cartoonist from Shreveport, says Monsieur Johnson, who creates artwork under the moniker of Toomasuba.

His curious creations and illustrations are inspired by Saturday morning cartoons, late-night sitcom re-runs, science fiction, comics, rock n' roll and coffee...lots and lots of coffee.

Check out toomasooba.com to see more of his work.

See Johnson's work at Lilah's Deli the entire month of Nov.

Lilah's Deli and Bakery is open Mon.-Fri. 8am-6pm & Sat. 8am-3pm.

Before the Maker's Fair: Highland Neighborhood Volunteer Clean-up begins at Columbia Park on Sat, Nov 5, 8 am to 11 am

2011-11-01T08:28:00.001-07:00

Hayden, Paul, Stewart, Fizzy, Susan at Columbia Park, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

"Please join us in the Highland Restoration Assoc neighborhood cleanup," says Kelly Payne Gay.

"Our cleanup will be held this Sat, Nov 5th, from 8am to 11am. We will meet at the Columbia Park parking lot. We’ll provide gloves, trash bags, and trash grabbers for volunteers to use during the cleanup."

"Because there are a number of other community events going on this weekend, we will have a shorter event and we will not go out to lunch after. So please come out and help us pick up the candy wrappers from our trick-or-treaters and get the neighborhood looking good for the Nov 19 Jazz Fest!"

An additional community event: Shreveport Green is having a hazardous material disposal on Saturday from 9am to 11am; drop off is 3825 Mansfield Rd.

Texas Ave Maker's Fair returns to corner of Tex Ave and Common St, 10am to 5 pm, Sat, Nov 5

2011-10-30T16:35:00.001-07:00

Danielle Hillman, Amy Lynn Scott, Texas Ave Maker's Fair, Spring 2011, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

The Texas Avenue Community Association presents the Texas Avenue Makers Fair, says April Dahm, at the corner of Texas Avenue and Common Street in downtown Shreveport.

Vendors will be selling a wide assortment of hand-made, re-purposed, or reconstructed items ranging from clothing and fashion accessories to toys, food, and art.

Admission is free and abundant free parking is available near the event.

Shoppers are encouraged to bring cash, as many vendors will not be able to process credit or debit card payments.

Extensive list of vendors list here.

Dia de los Muertos exhibit continues at minicine, 846 Tex Ave, during Tex Ave Maker's Fair, Sat, Nov 5

2011-10-30T11:49:00.001-07:00

Dia de los Muertos minicine, Shreveport, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Papel Picado hung from the rafters, a large, art-filled ofrendas by Conchita Iglesias McElwee and large display of clay art by Mexican artist Juan Ramon Soto will remain on view at minicine?, 846 Tex Ave, during the Texas Ave Maker's Fair, says Iglesias McIlwee.

Dia art by artists from Norway and New Orleans as well by local artists, including Micah Harold and Megan Porter, is also part of the display.

Video here.

Shreveport Opera presents The Merry Widow Saturday October 29, 2011

2011-10-28T23:11:00.000-07:00

The Merry Widow takes the stage at Riverview Theatre Saturday night as Shreveport Opera presents the enduring and endearing opera that provides us with a rousing tale of money, debt crisis and love woven together with beautiful music and comedy that will have you humming along and laughing with your neighbor.

Jerry Shannon conducts the Shreveport Symphony from the pit. Michael Mayes, Katrina Thurman and Eric van Hoven star as Danilo, Hanna (the widow) and Camille respectively.

Time of performance 7:30 PM For Tickets 318.227.9503

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Riverview Theatre

for additional photos - www.shreveportmusicians4ever.blogspot.com photos by sjwRogers

Storyteller upon the Spirit of the Red River produces a Spooky Cruise on Halloween; see half price offer at DealChicken.com

2011-10-28T08:16:00.001-07:00

A Fancy Engineering Project on Cross Bayou, a photo by Kathryn Usher on Flickr.

Looking for something different to do this Halloween? Red River Cruise’s Annual Spooky Cruise is back, and the DealChicken’s got the scoop on savings.

For $20 you and a friend can celebrate the spookiest night of the year on a Halloween Cruise—half off the regular $40 price.

A spooky storyteller will be on hand to make your Halloween cruise eggceptionally memorable.

Established in 1995, the Red River Cruise company's Spirit of the Red is a U.S. Coast Guard-certified, 35-passenger vessel. Atop the spacious observation deck, you'll hear about the history of the Red River.

The Merchant, not DealChicken, is solely responsible for this Deal. This Deal is subject to the Terms of Service and HOW DEALCHICKEN WORKS.

The Spirit of the Red River Cruise Captain Sandy Jackson operated his first towboat when he was just 12. The experience managed to hook him on life on the river, and he obtained his captain's license when he was only 20. Jackson joined the U.S. Navy and served four years in Vietnam. Upon his return, he resumed cruising on the river.

Photo by Kathryn Usher.

Call to artists from Bossier Arts Council: two and three-dimensional masks ; deadline Dec 16 for Dec 20 exhibit

2011-10-26T20:40:00.001-07:00

Masks, Magnet fine arts survey, a photo by trudeau on Flickr.

Join Bossier Arts Council in initiating the Carnival Season by submitting to a Mask Themed exhibit / fundraiser for the Bossier Arts Council, says Theresa Ratcliff.

Prizes will be awarded for Best of Show, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place, as well as People’s Choice in Both 2D and 3D categories.

Because this is a fundraiser, there is an entry fee of $10.00 per artist to help cover expenses.

1. 2D: This category allows artists to submit any 2D mask related/themed artworks in the media of their choice - including graphics, paintings, photography...

For this competition, Please do Not sign your work on the Front – sign on the back only! There will be a special competition to see who can correctly identify the most artists by their work. If your artwork has already been signed, we will find a subtle way to cover the signatures until the competition is completed.

2. 3D - Artists submitting are asked to create 3D carnival style masks using the medium of their choice. Please do Not sign your creation where visible - there will be a competition throughout this event to see who can correctly match the most artists to their mask.

Drop off: December 16th between 2:00 and 6:00
Exhibit: December 20th – January 20th

Awards Ceremony and Closing Reception: January 20th at 6:00 pm.

All entries must be Mask Themed 2D or 3D art. All media, such as acrylic, collage, oil, pastel, photography, sculpture, etc... accepted. All works must be ready to hang or display. Please bring all works wrapped in paper (or otherwise covered) so that the artist is kept secret!!

All questions or concerns should be directed to Theresa via email at artists@bossierarts.org or theresacrat@yahoo.com or by phone at 318-393-3601.