Occupancy rates at local hotels over Memorial Day weekend have been skyrocketing over the past few years due to Bayou Country Superfest, which is set for Saturday and Sunday of the upcoming holiday weekend. Last year's Memorial weekend occupancy rate for Saturday jumped to 94% from 61% in 2009—the year before the country music festival began—according to a study by Smith Travel Research, which calculated rates using the entire Capital Region. Those healthy numbers are expected to continue with this year's festival, but a local tourism official says the upward trajectory should start to level off. "There's not a lot of room for growth," says Renee Areng, executive vice president of Visit Baton Rouge. "If we were to venture to do just the parish of Baton Rouge, I would speculate (occupancy) will be close to 100 percent." With country acts such as Luke Bryan, Lady Antebellum and Miranda Lambert, the annual event at Tiger Stadium is changing the way area fans of country music...
We all know where Louisiana country music fans will be this weekend. Bayou Country Superfest kicks off two days of live music in LSU's Tiger Stadium on Saturday. This year's performers include Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert and Darius Rucker on Saturday; and Zac Brown Band, Luke Bryan and The Band Perry on Sunday. The event also provides a free Fan Fest stage outside the stadium, which will feature performances from Yvette Landry, Jaryd Lane and The Parish, among others. For more festival details, ticket information and sound clips from a few bands set to play here this weekend, read a 225 story here. Also, check out 225 Editor Jeff Roedel's interview with Miranda Lambert here. And if you're going to Bayou Country Superfest, feel free to submit your videos to 225
Under the director of instructors Micaela Coner and Stephanie Faucette, students from the local dance studio The Coda will perform dance routines from various genres in its second-ever spring concert this weekend. This Saturday's shows will hit on everything from ballet to jazz to hip-hop with performances at 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $9.50. For more information, visit manshiptheatre.org.
We all know where Louisiana country fans will be this weekend—Bayou Country Superfest kicks off Saturday in LSU's Tiger Stadium with two days of live music. Among this year's performers are Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert and Darius Rucker on Saturday; and the Zac Brown Band, Luke Bryan and The Band Perry on Sunday. The event also includes the free Fan Fest stage outside the stadium, which includes performances from Yvette Landry, Jaryd Lane and The Parish and others. For more information on tickets, who you can't miss and to hear a few bands playing this year, read 225's article here. Also, check out Jeff Roedel's interview with Miranda Lambert here.
In the market for a show-stopping new accessory? Don't miss the Gypsy Jewelry trunk show, happening through tomorrow at NK Boutique. Complimentary wine will be served, and designer Jeannette Simon will be on hand to offer styling tips. Plus, each purchase puts you in the running for a free pair of earrings. More info can be found here.
Forget what you know about fashion and experience new threads courtesy of Hemline@LSU's seventh annual fashion show, CONTOUR, tonight at 8 p.m. the Lyceum Dean Ballroom (Map it!). Hemline@LSU is a student-run organization, and tonight's show will feature original designs constructed through the curriculum as well as outside competition pieces. Also on hand will be Project Runway All Stars winner Anthony Ryan's ROAR foundation, an exhibit focused on developing personal and professional growth through designing apparel for women facing adversity. Tickets are $7 for students, $10 general admission, and $5 for children under the age of 12. Tickets can be purchased online.
Revolution Dance Company will present its sixth annual public performance at the Manship Theatre. The local dance company's show is dubbed "Vivere Saltere," which translates to "Live to Dance," and promises to be an illuminating spectacle. There will be two performances Saturday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $13. For more information, visit manshiptheatre.org.
One of the last year's cinematic surprises was Gimme the Loot. The film focuses on two determined graffiti writers who are trying to tag the ultimate location: the New York Mets' Home Run Apple. Directed and written by newcomer Adam Leon, Gimme the Loot has won critical praise as well as a few awards, including Best Narrative Feature at the South by Southwest competition. View the trailer here. The film will be shown at Manship Theatre Wednesday and Thursday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8.50.
In 1999, John Georges went into the tugboat business. It was unchartered territory for him. Though he had a successful wholesale distribution company and a thriving video poker business, offshore maritime was a totally new ballgame. The business was extremely tough and capital intensive. Though Georges, by his own account, did well with the company—growing market share and making money—he ultimately was unable to compete with the real heavyweights in the industry. Taking them on would have required either devoting all his resources to tugboats, or remaining a niche player, and being a niche player isn't Georges' style. He is not one to compete with anyone who puts him at a competitive disadvantage from which he cannot emerge victorious. He is hard-wired to win. Lives for it. Thrives on it. If he can't be first, he would sooner move on than settle. His life and career are a testament to that drive and determination. He is among the top 10 convenience store wholesalers in...
In the business world, “adapt or die” is a truism. The ubiquity of the Internet is altering—in some cases, radically upending—the models for all sorts of industries. Exhibit A: the current turmoil in print journalism.
When I was growing up in Baton Rouge, after my family moved here from New Orleans just before I was born, The Times-Picayune was thrown in our yard each morning. After school, I would get on my bike to deliver The State-Times, the afternoon counterpart of the then-called Morning Advocate.
The buildings of LSU not only reveal a legacy that goes back to the Renaissance but also serve as a primer of architectural principles that guided the creation of one of the most unique academic environments in the United States. In The Architecture of LSU, author, professor and architect J. Michael Desmond traces the university's development, including photographs, plans, drawings and maps that underscore the contributions of historical figures and the genealogies of the campus's architecture and planning. By detailing the origins and evolution of LSU's architectural core and exploring the fundamentals of American college campus design, Desmond shows the rewards of public environments that integrate natural and constructed elements to meet both practical and aesthetic goals. The Architecture of LSU is available from LSU Press.
The news was already half a day old when the press conference announcing John Georges' acquisition of The Advocate took place. But the May 1 media briefing officially passing the torch of ownership was noteworthy not so much for what was said—it was predictable enough—but for who was in attendance: New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu.
Dyke Nelson says his architectural firm will use the $10,000 it received in taking first place in the Grow Mid City business plan competition to purchase additional equipment that will allow it to manufacture more eco-friendly products itself rather than outsource that work. "For example, we recently built a couple bistro tables for Rock-n-Sake. We designed those but had to have them fabricated off-site and then assemble them here," Nelson says. "The idea is to create a real tight circle with our production, keep it all in-house, and ship off products that are truly sustainable—and eventually provide an option to purchase those products through our website." Nelson says his firm uses a "tremendous amount of recycled materials" for its products, which range from furniture and lighting fixtures to panels and installation pieces, many of which come from historic properties. Along with Dyke Nelson Architecture—or DNA Workshop, as it's also known—two other Mid City...
"Clearly, commanding a market to change on a dime because it suits your business plan does not mean readers will obey," says The New York Times' David Carr in a column Sunday. "Just ask Advance Publications, owned by the Newhouse family, which is back to where it started in New Orleans with The Times-Picayune." The attempted transformation of The Times-Picayune to a digitally focused news organization—initially scaling back publication to just three days a week, but more recently reversing course and launching a new publication called TPStreet to once again have a printed product every day—has been "a jaw-dropping blunder to watch," Carr says. "Advance misjudged the marketplace … and failed to execute a modern digital strategy. Now it is in full retreat with new competition," he writes. The Advocate has been raiding The Times-Picayune's editorial staff since new owner John Georges purchased the newspaper, Carr notes, and is...
BREC Superintendent Carolyn McKnight says she's talking to various groups about building a new elephant exhibit for the Baton Rouge Zoo. "We want elephants at our zoo, and the way that we have to do that is to build a new exhibit," McKnight says. She's hoping the parish will reauthorize a property tax dedicated to BREC next year that will allow for an elephant exhibit. If the tax is renewed, McKnight says BREC could leverage public dollars with private donations to carry out the project. Judy the elephant died in March and the zoo plans to host a going-away party for Bozie, a 37-year-old Asian elephant, on Saturday, May 18. She will be leaving the zoo shortly after that for the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, D.C. Because elephants are a herd species, zoo officials say they couldn't leave Bozie alone after her 46-year-old companion died. —April Castro
"You guys having an exciting time at this folk rock show?" Josh Tillman, a.k.a. Father John Misty, snickered last night in between songs at his One Eyed Jacks' performance.
Edging closer to 1,000 signatures, an online petition is bringing the debate about City Park's golf course back into the limelight. Should the 9-hole course be maintained and City Park grow around it, or should it be eliminated and the grounds added to the park's existing green space?
A stormy weekend forecast has prompted organizers of the Baton Rouge Greek Festival to move Saturday's event indoors. Instead of being held at North Boulevard Town Square downtown, the second annual festival will now take place in the atrium of the Belle of Baton Rouge, 103 France St. The hours are staying the same: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Overnight and early-morning thunderstorms knocked out power for about 6,000 Entergy customers in Baton Rouge, and there are continued warnings of possible severe weather and flash flooding in the area. Heavy rain is expected to last into the weekend, with an 80% chance of rain Saturday. Though the forecast is also calling for a 70% chance of rain through this evening, DDD Executive Director Davis Rhorer says Live After Five has not been canceled as of this morning. "We don't know at this point in time if it's going to be affected [by the weather], but for now it's still on for 5 to 8 p.m. at Repentance Park," Rhorer says. —Steve...
Sunday evening at Mud and Water (Map it!) promises to be a rocking time, thanks to a stacked bill of local bands including Circa Amore, Cattle Drive, Baby Boy and The Melters. Proceeds from the show will benefit the Lower Mississippi Riverkeeper and Gulf Restoration Network. Raffles and prize drawings will also be held. Doors open at 7 p.m. Cover is $5. For a complete list of this week's shows, click here.
After a week of semifinals, the top local teens will show off their clever wordplay and performance skills for audiences in Saturday's ALL CITY grand slam finals at the Manship Theatre. The event features some of the city's best young voices, competing for an opportunity to represent Baton Rouge at the Brave New Voices International Poetry Slam this summer in Chicago. The show kicks off at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15. Student and senior pricing is also available. For more information, visit manshiptheatre.org.
John Stites draws humor from his diverse life experiences. Stites has worked as a college language professor, spent time in the Army, been a bar bouncer and a corporate executive. So, one would think he has a lot to sift through for his comedic tales. See for yourself Friday and Saturday night at the Funny Bone. Stites will perform twice on both days. The 7:30 p.m. shows are no smoking. The 10:30 p.m. shows allow smoking. Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased online. You must be 21 to enter.
Manship Theatre will screen the Oscar-nominated foreign film, No, Wednesday. The film features a brilliant performance from Gael García Bernal, who plays René Saavedra, a Chilean PR man who tries to mount a press campaign against General Augusto Pinochet in 1988. The film's screening starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8.50. Student and senior pricing is also available. No is rated R. View the trailer here.
Kathy Griffin has quite the résumé. She's a two-time Emmy winner, a Grammy nominee and a New York Times bestselling author. Wait, we forgot to mention she's also a hilarious veteran comedienne. Griffin will perform at L'Auberge Casino & Hotel's event center Saturday. Doors open at 7 p.m. Show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online through Ticketmaster.
When I was growing up in Baton Rouge, after my family moved here from New Orleans just before I was born, The Times-Picayune was thrown in our yard each morning. After school, I would get on my bike to deliver The State-Times, the afternoon counterpart of the then-called Morning Advocate.
When I was growing up in Baton Rouge, after my family moved here from New Orleans just before I was born, The Times-Picayune was thrown in our yard each morning. After school, I would get on my bike to deliver The State-Times, the afternoon counterpart of the then-called Morning Advocate. Besides the paper route, I've never worked for either paper (this is a syndicated column), but as with most of their dual readers, their newly engaged business rivalry holds my attention as much as any stories they publish these days. On May 1, both papers ran front-page banner headlines announcing their big changes: "Georges buys Advocate" and "T-P adding newsstand tab 3 days a week." The great south Louisiana newspaper war is on. This one is unlike those from the early 20th century in big cities, when the struggle was between two established papers rooted in the same market. New publisher John Georges plans to expand on The Advocate's recent incursion into New Orleans,...
Oscar-nominated director Baz Luhrman's fifth feature film, and first in five years, arrives Friday. Here are five things you need to know about it, the latest adaptation (and first in 3D) of The Great Gatsby.
Art meets fashion tomorrow at the Annieglass trunk show, taking place at Carriages Ladies Store. Designer and Smithsonian glass artist Annie Morhauser will visit the Bocage Village boutique from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Shoppers will have the opportunity to see items up close from her popular collections, including Salt, Sea Life, and Sail. The artist's 30th anniversary line, Dew Drops, will also be on display. Refreshments, complimentary engraving and a raffle will add to the fun of the event. Find more information here.
No less than Gov. Bobby Jindal, Mayor Kip Holden and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu joined the new owner and publisher of The Advocate, John Georges, at a news conference this morning to officially announce the New Orleans businessman's acquisition of the state's largest daily paper. In a crowded conference room at The Advocate headquarters, Georges spoke glowingly about his predecessors, the Manship family, the Baton Rouge market and the opportunities presented by this latest of his many business ventures. He also introduced his two top managers: veteran journalists Dan Shea, general manager, and Peter Kovacs, editor. But the event was more a passing of the torch than a briefing on what changes may be in store for the newspaper or on the terms of the sale, which were not disclosed. Outgoing publisher David Manship, whose family operated the daily for more than a century, delivered an emotional farewell to his longtime employees and co-workers. Later, his brother,...
Indie rock fans should check out Of Montreal's performance Sunday at The Varsity. The prolific Athens, Ga., band has been around for more than 15 years, releasing its heady mix of dance-rock tunes. This year, the band will release its 11th studio full-length, Lousy with Sylvanbriar. Lead singer Kevin Barnes says the album is influenced by the poetry of Sylvia Plath and the music of The Grateful Dead—so that should be interesting. Doors open Sunday at 7 p.m.; the show starts at 8 p.m. Wild Moccasins will open. Tickets are $17 and available online. For a complete list of this week's shows, click here.
Frameworks Gallery will present its new exhibit "Sur le Papier" on Saturday. The display features a range of contemporary art where paper is the primary medium. Among the artists in the exhibit are June Gonce, Jovann Armstrong, Van Wade Day and many more. Restaurant IPO's On the Go food truck will also be there offering brunch items and mimosas. The event starts at 11 a.m. For more information, click here.
The classic ballet, Swan Lake, will be performed Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the LSU Union Theater. The Russian National Ballet Theatre will present the classic show, and this will be the first time the full-length ballet will be performed in Baton Rouge. Tickets range from $36 to $44. For more information, visit the LSU Union Theatre website.
British funnyman Steve Hirst will perform at the Funny Bone Comedy Club Friday and Saturday night. Hirst’s act has been described as a mix between Benny Hill’s absurd humor and the in-your-face style of Guy Ritchie’s feature film Snatch. Hirst will perform twice Friday and Saturday, a no-smoking show at 7:30 p.m. and a 10 p.m. show where smoking is allowed. Tickets range from $10 to $15 and can be purchased through the Funny Bone website. You must be 21 or older to enter the club.
Since 2003, the Slim Harpo Music Awards have recognized those Louisiana greats who have taken blues to an entirely different level across the country and globe. This year's awards ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Manship Theatre, with honorees including Warren Storm, Harvey Knox, "Guitar Gable" Perrodin, Jockey Etienne and blues ambassador and producer David Kearns. Tickets are $35, and proceeds benefit the Music in the Schools outreach program.
Perhaps one of the biggest Broadway surprises of the past decade, Rock of Ages, is coming to Baton Rouge. Featuring of-the-era hit songs, Rock of Ages tells the story of a young rock 'n' roller in the '80s who wants to make something more of his life. Some of the choice music cuts include "Nothin' But a Good Time," "We Built This City," "Can't Fight This Feeling" and "Any Way You Want It." The touring production starts at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the River Center. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
Dan Shea, the former managing editor of The Times-Picayune who has been tapped as new general manager of The Advocate, tells Poynter that the Baton Rouge daily is looking to compete with the New Orleans paper head on under its new owner, John Georges. "Our plan is simple," Shea says. "Give the people of metro New Orleans what they want: a seven-day, home-delivered truly local newspaper. We'll provide the resources to get that done quickly." As reported by Daily Report on Tuesday afternoon, Shea and Peter Kovacs—also a former managing editor at The Times-Picayune—have been hired to lead The Advocate under its new ownership. The Advocate officially announced...
As New Orleans businessman John Georges prepares to close on his pending acquisition of The Advocate—a deal which could be finalized in the next few days, according to sources—NOLA media group, parent company of The Times-Picayune, has announced that it's adding another print product to the marketplace this summer. TPStreet will appear in a tabloid-size format in the New Orleans area on newsstands and in newspaper boxes only, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays—days when The Times-Picayune is not published. Georges declines to comment on the latest development in the increasingly competitive battle for subscribers between the New Orleans and Baton Rouge newspapers. "My sole focus is on The Advocate," Georges tells Daily Report. "I don't focus on potential competitors." Meanwhile, sources say Georges' editorial...
If success in fiction depends on creating characters who seem not just believable but actual, then Cary Holladay succeeds wildly in Horse People, the latest issue in the Yellow Shoe Fiction series out of LSU Press.
“Let Me Move You” JIMI HENDRIX New collection People, Hell & Angels provides a different take on Hendrix's brilliance through experimental recordings and previously unreleased studio material. The energetic “Let Me Move You,” with sax and vocals by the legendary Lonnie Youngblood, is a lively gem full of the R&B funk and wah-wah sounds that blues fans are sure to enjoy.
He's a Coast Guard veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. His city is a cold shadow of its former self. And he is out for blood—perhaps literally.
Imagine strolling at dusk in and out of Mid City shops filled with live music and hors d'oeuvres, browsing past paintings, sculptures and ceramics all created by local artists. This will be the scene May 10 when Mid City Merchants presents Hot Art, Cool Nights.
The erratic, psychedelic and weirdly funky music of indie pop ensemble Of Montreal will fill the Varsity early this month. The band, building on more than a decade of wild performances and music, has been on tour supporting 2012's Paralytic Stalks, an album of new music, and Daughter of Cloud, a compilation of unreleased and rare tracks. They stop in Baton Rouge May 5 with Wild Moccasins as the opening act. varsitytheatre.com
Local singer-songwriter Peter Simón is perhaps best known for his talents on the guitar. Yet, for all his proficiency on that instrument, he actually grew up playing something else.
The daughter of East Texas private detectives, Miranda Lambert was taught from an early age how to handle a gun. At 29, she still hunts deer in season.
A typical Sunday morning at church may include fellowship, a sermon and prayer, and that's pretty much what you'll find at Haven Church on the Sabbath Day. But on Fridays and Saturdays, you'll more likely find secular-leaning local art and musicians, and quite possibly a bottle of whiskey—because Haven is far from your typical church.
The heat isn't the only brutal thing about summer. This season's movies are all about the destruction of the planet, the killing of our heroes, even the cutthroat nature of corporate America and the 1%. As Iron Man 3, The Great Gatsby and Star Trek Into Darkness rule the box office this month, here is a look ahead to eight of summer's biggest new arrivals.
A film score can often make or break the movie-watching experience—the swells or abrupt booms of an orchestra direct you when to feel emotion or when to jump in fear. When it comes to classic silent films, the addition of a score later can create a new experience entirely.
It's a month of all things jazz at downtown museums right now. As a professor at Xavier in New Orleans and a native son of the Lower Ninth Ward, John T. Scott mentored many artists and incorporated the improvisational style and rhythm of jazz music into his work. He called his process “jazz thinking,” and his vibrant paintings, prints and kinetic sculptures bring to mind instruments in West African culture, the legacy of local jazz legends and even the traditions of jazz funerals and second lines. The exhibit, “Rhythm & Improvisation: John T. Scott & His Enduring Legacy,” organized by Louisiana Art & Science Museum (lasm.org), is on view all this month at the museum and ends July 14.
A new venue, a new setting and a 10th anniversary celebration for Art Melt—that's what's in store for fans of the popular annual juried art event downtown this year.
jodijamesmusic.com "I just bought Josh Ritter's new record, The Beast In Its Tracks. He's brilliant, as always. Word on the Nashville street—I'll be move there soon—is that Johnny Depp is living there and working on a project with Jack White, and I'm definitely interested in whatever comes of that collaboration."
The Grace Georgesample sale happens next week. Don't miss your chance to snag one-of-a-kind items from this popular local line! The stunning wares of designers Shelly Dick and Amy Howe range from bracelets for every mood to statement necklaces and elegant earrings. The sale is slated for May 2 and 3 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the design headquarters, 2051 Silverside Drive. New goods will be available each day, so stop by more than once to see what catches your eye.
Sail smoothly into swimsuit season with the perfect beach ensemble. Shoppers will find dozens of chic swimwear styles during the Ophelia Beach Wear trunk show, happening Monday and Tuesday at Edit by LBP. Luxurious collections such as L*Space, La Perla, Tori Praver and Heidi Klein will be on display. If you're behind on this season's trends, get styling tips by Ophelia owner, Tori Pickren Von Hoene, who will be on-site to share expert advice. For more details, click here.
Upstairs at a warehouse on Main Street near downtown, artist Raina Wirta is standing atop a very tall ladder, adjusting the lighting above a giant, furry (yes, furry) dome-like structure that hangs from the ceiling. The LSU MFA candidate unveiled her exhibition “(un)familiar” to a crowd last Friday. Earlier that week, she was busy putting together the finishing touches.
An evening of live music, fine art and good food is on tap Thursday at Southdowns Village shopping center in the sixth annual Art Wine Design event. Among the participating merchants are Ann Connelly Fine Art, Monochrome Furniture, Front Door, Blon Salon, Jeannie Frey Rhodes, Stafford Tile and Stone, Glo Beauty Bar, Spectrum Southdowns, Bella Bridesmaid, LD Linens and Décor, Rollie Noelie and many more. Artwork purchased Thursday will be sold without sales tax. Musicians including Michael Foster and Hubbard, Decker & Rhodes will be performing in the shopping center as well. Art Wine Design kicks off at 6 p.m.
Of Moving Colors, a local professional dance company, closes out its 26th season with a performance Thursday night at the Manship Theatre. The show, "P.S.425" is a collaboration with LSU College of Art and Design's Nadine Carter Russell Chair Peter Shire, whose recent exhibits were shown at galleries across the city. Dancers will perform using interactive set pieces designed by Shire, including a catwalk, whimsical chairs, thrones and more. A free pre-performance reception will be held at Glassell Gallery at 6:30 p.m. The show begins at 7:30 p.m., followed by a free post-performance reception at Glassell at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $25. For more information, click here.
Three stylish local stores are coming together to help out a downtown venue. Noelie Harmon, Time Warp Boutique and Hazel & Florange will show off choice outfits Friday in the Uncommon Fashion show benefiting Hartley/Vey Theatres. The event kicks off at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased via Hartley/Vey’s website.
Local celebs will dance the night away for a good cause Saturday night at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center for the 2013 edition of Dancing for Big Buddy. Modeled after the hit ABC show Dancing with the Stars, the event features local stars performing Saturday night, 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Some of the dancers include LSU Women's Basketball coach Nikki Caldwell, Mestizo owner Jim Urdiales, WBRZ anchor Rosa Flores and many more. Tickets are $10. For more information and a full list of celebrity dancers, click here.
The Louisiana International Film Festival debuted across Baton Rouge and New Orleans over the weekend, screening world and state premieres at multiple venues as well as hosting industry discussions. Chesley Heymsfield, the festival's executive director, says she was delighted with the positive response for the inaugural event. "I'm always impressed by how the festival is able to influence people," Heymsfield says. "A lot of that hard work from our team and our supporters, it comes to fruition when people show up." Among the films at this year's movie showcase were The Iceman, an action drama starring Michael Shannon, and The East, a sleeper hit from the Sundance Film Festival. Both films were shot in Shreveport. Other films shown included Michel Gondry's The We and I, the critically acclaimed Gimme the Loot, and the documentary Room 237. Director Robert Zemeckis was also on hand Saturday in support of his wife Leslie's documentary, Bound by...
Since his fanciful failure The Science of Sleep, a post-brilliance pass he was given after the artistic triumph that was Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, French director Michel Gondry has spent the past seven years in a creative wilderness, trying his hand at big budget action (The Green Hornet), an esoteric familial documentary (The Thorn in the Heart), and a dated misstep disguised as a buddy comedy (Be Kind Rewind), and with it all not making a single stride out from the shadow of Sunshine, his Oscar-winning collaboration with screenwriter Charlie Kaufman.
Many studio and independent films have called Louisiana home over the past few years. And whether they've used the state's local flair as scenery, like the hit Pitch Perfect, or simply used a local studio, like Oblivion, the state has made a name for itself as one of the places to make movies. This weekend, the inaugural Louisiana International Film Festival will screen a bevy of feature films and documentaries in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, as well as host a number of mentorship programs, to foster and celebrate the state's creative filmmaking spirit. The festival kicks off in New Orleans Thursday night with a screening of Twenty Feet from Stardom at the Joy Theatre. Events in Baton Rouge, which will take place at multiple venues, begin on Friday. For a full schedule, ticket prices and more information, visit the festival website. Get the lowdown on more local happenings on tap for this weekend in the new...
Dancers from Baton Rouge's only contemporary dance-theater company take the stage Thursday, April 25, for their final performance of the season. Of Moving Colors will present P.S. 425 at the Manship Theatre on a custom, interactive set designed by renowned sculptor and designer Peter Shire, artist in residence at LSU. A pre-performance champagne reception begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Glassell Gallery within the Shaw Center. Click here or call 344-0334 for more information. (Photo by David Humphreys)
Collectible jewelry with worldwide appeal will be on display April 24 at Kiki in Perkins Rowe. The boutique will host a trunk show highlighting the wares of Dodo, a line of Italian charms, cords and bracelets, named for the now extinct flightless bird of Mauritius. Each charm has its own meaning, and can be worn alone or in a mix—whichever strikes your fancy. A portion of proceeds from the collection benefits the World Wildlife Fund Italy, a fact that more than charms us.
Opera fans won't want to miss the LSU School of Music performance of Peter Brook's critically acclaimed Impressions de Pelléas this weekend at the Shaver Theatre. The show ventures into the world of impressionism with music from Claude Debussy as the mysterious backdrop. Show times are Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20. Discounts are available for students and seniors. For more information, click here.
Dive into the world of extreme close-up photography Friday, as science communicator and macro-photographer Paige Brown will show off her work at The Haven Gallery and Listening Room, 651 Laurel St. The exhibit features a personal, detailed look at elements of nature we might take for granted. The free show runs 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Complimentary coffee will be available. For more information, click here.
Many studio and independent films have called Louisiana home over the past years. Whether a film has used the state's local flair and scenery, like the hit Pitch Perfect, or used a local studio, like this weekend's Oblivion, Louisiana has made a name for itself as one of "the" places to make movies. This weekend, the inaugural Louisiana International Film Festival will host a bevy of feature films, documentaries and mentorship programs in New Orleans and Baton Rouge to foster and celebrate the state's creative filmmaking spirit.
For anyone who has ever watched the ABC television series Wipeout and boasted, "Oh, I could do that," the opportunity to prove it has arrived. Cajun Lagoon—the Capital Region's newest amusement park—offers what's called aqua challenge courses. Essentially obstacle courses made of inflatables, there's the Wibit Sports Park for the truly brave, and the Aqua Circuit with shallow-water activities such as the Hurdle, the Wiggle Bridge and the Wibit Hand. The 13-acre park near Watson is slated to open May 4. Owners Chuck and Melissa Ray and their parents, Chuck and Lori Taylor, are veterans of the business; they've been operating a party rental firm, Amusements of Denham Springs, for nearly a decade. The business owners have been building Cajun Lagoon for about a year to meet customer demand for a family-friendly entertainment venue. "For a long time, we've had people calling, wanting us to host parties with the waterslides and stuff," Melissa Ray says. "So I started...
Baton Rouge's Mid City is one of 10 communities included in a new program aiming to assist Louisiana cities with reaching cultural and economic development goals. The 10 communities selected to take part in the Louisiana Creative Communities Program were named in an announcement issued Thursday by Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne. In addition to Mid City, participating communities are: Lake Charles, Minden, Mandeville, Washington and Plaquemine, as well as Houma, two areas in Monroe and a collaborative effort in Sunset, Grand Couteau and Arnaudville. Civic leaders in the 10 communities are to be paired with a coach to participate in a six-month training and planning process, after which the communities will receive a $3,000 grant to help implement their plans. No specific plans for each community have yet been revealed. Each participating community is required to produce a tangible product, which could be a plan, report or other outcome, depending on the stated goal. The program, which...
Celebrate swamp blues in its birthplace at the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, taking place downtown Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The festival features performances across two stages as well as backstage interviews inside the Old State Capitol. Headlining this year's festival is Bobby Rush, while Robert Randolph & The Family Band, C.C. Adcock & The Lafayette Marquis, Henry Gray and many more will also perform. The festival is free and open to the public. You can find complete details, including a full lineup and schedule, here. There are a number of other blues-centric events happening Friday and throughout the weekend. Find out about them and other local events in the new 225 Weekender e-newsletter here.
Such a rare sight is Derek Cianfrance's familial epic The Place Beyond the Pines, it is with great ease that it buries itself inside of you, it haunts you, or as Ryan Gosling's inked-up motorcycle maniac "Handsome Luke" would say, it "sticks around."
The LSU Museum of Art will ask families to "Take a Seat" in this weekend's Saturday Arts for Families event, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The program will explore questions such as "What is considered art anyway?" and explore pieces throughout the museum. For more information, click here.
Celebrate the weekend in the birthplace of the swamp blues with the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday. The event features performances across two stages and backstage interviews inside the Old State Capitol. This year's performers include C.C. Adcock & The Lafayette Marquis, Henry Gray and guests, Robert Randolph & The Family Band and many more. The festival is free and open to the public. For more information, including a full lineup and schedule, visit batonrougebluesfestival.org.
Fresh off the release of its third full-length album, Heza, Generationals will perform Thursday night at Mud and Water, 174 South Blvd. The band's new album has been called a step forward as the duo continues to develop its '80s-obsessed, intimate pop-rock. Check out Benjamin Leger's article on the band and its new album here. Baton Rouge band England in 1819 will open the show. Doors open at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10. For a full list of shows happening this week, click here.
This weekend marks the beginning of a transformation on Government Street with the Better Block BR project. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on the two blocks between Bedford and Beverly drives, residents will get to see a model of what Government Street could look like if we push local and state officials to update the roadway to a safer, more “complete street” model.
Louisiana movie theater mogul Theodore "Teddy" George Solomon Sr., who brought megaplex stadium theaters to south Louisiana, died Sunday. He was 93. Solomon started a seven-decade career in the theater business as a child working in a silent-movie house built by his father and uncle. He would grow the family's single film venue into more than 600 theaters and drive-ins in eight states, according to a statement from a family spokesman issued today. After graduating from LSU and serving in World War II, Solomon returned to the South and formed Gulf States Theatres, through which he went on to build and operate more than 300 drive-in movie theaters. He sold the business in 1972 but later bought half of it back with his six children, transitioning the business from drive-ins to indoor screens. He again sold the business in 1986. By the mid-90s, Solomon opened a 20-screen stadium theater in New Orleans, which became wildly popular and would precede four more such theaters in the New...
"I was a young writer trying to take off." With this subtle, ironic confession, Jack Kerouac's lyrical cipher Sal Paradise introduces himself in the long awaited screen adaptation of his iconic Beat Generation novel On the Road.
Actor Joe Chrest has never seen the Sean Penn-led 2006 adaptation of All the King's Men, and he doesn't want to. Audiences may be relieved that the stage and screen veteran, portraying Jack Burden—the novel's flawed narrator and conflicted associate of the Huey P. Long-esque Gov. Willie Stark—is not basing his latest theatrical performance on the Baton Rouge-set film most critics called a missed opportunity.
In ancient Rome, the thumbs of the crowd decided a gladiator's fate. Contrary to later Hollywood tradition, thumbs down signaled the victor to shield his sword. Thumbs up meant, "Go on, off with his head!"
Trance (in select theaters Friday) Starring James McAvoy, Rosario Dawson and Vincent Cassel. Rated R. Check out Jeff Roedel's preview on the film from this month's 225. View the trailer here.
Before Sam Raimi was known for his mega-successful Spider-Man trilogy, he was a B-movie horror director, known for his lo-fi mix of shock, humor and gross-out gags. His Evil Dead trilogy has become a cult classic. This Friday, a remake will hit theaters. Though fans of the original might balk at the suggestion of Evil Dead being remade, Raimi has given his blessing to director Fede Alvarez and is producing this updated take. More disturbing might be that Diablo Cody (the mind behind Juno, Young Adult and Jennifer's Body) co-wrote the script. Rated R. Watch the trailer below:
Blues and folk by way of New Orleans' own Andrew Duhon will land at the Mud and Water stage Saturday. Duhon will perform selections from his new album, The Moorings for a CD release party. Denton Hatcher will open the show. Performances start at 10 p.m. Cover is $6.
Soul'd Out Sundays will showcase "The Connoisseur of Fine Rhyme" Slangston Hughes, 7 p.m. this Sunday at Gallery Bohemia, 3774 Government St. DJ Automatik will provide backing sounds. If you're a fan of good hip-hop, you won't want to miss this show. Admission is $5.
In preparation for next weekend's big dance, the Baton Rouge Blues Festival will host a listening party at Radio Bar Thursday, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Leah Smith of WBRH will get you familiar with all the acts performing at the April 13 festival. You can also mingle with fellow blues enthusiasts and bid on portraits by artist TJ Black. Admission is free. Radio Bar will be offering drink specials throughout the night to benefit the Baton Rouge Blues Foundation. For more information, click here.
Grab a picnic blanket Sunday and head downtown for a live music experience like no other. The Sunday in the Park series returns this weekend, with the '70s soul, funk and R&B fusion band Space Capone. Bring family and friends to enjoy this uniquely Baton Rouge way to kick back under oak trees on the Town Square lawn. This week's concert is slated for noon-2 p.m., and kicks off the final day of FestForAll. For more information, click here.
What do you get when you mix piano with infectious energy and Louisiana style? OK, that's a really broad question, but you might find Lindsay Rae Spurlock—a talented singer-songwriter who has garnered praise for her pop tunes. Spurlock will perform at Chelsea's Cafe Friday at 10:30 p.m. For more information and to listen to Spurlock's acclaimed release Heart On, visit her website.
The Capital City's premier—and free—outdoor concert series is back this Friday with a performance from New Orleans' funk band Phunkey Monkeys. The concert takes place in the renovated Repentance Park, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Check out the full schedule here.
The BR Walls Project will host a pot-luck lunch and painting party for children of all ages at the PODS Warehouse, 2056 Wooddale Blvd, Sunday. This will be a unique opportunity for families to collaborate with local artists to decorate a PODS storage container that will be featured in the Better Block BR event on April 13-14. No RSVP is required. Kid-friendly snacks, drinks or lunch items are welcome.
One of Dallas' oldest and more diverse dance companies comes to Baton Rouge Saturday night, as the Dallas Black Dance Theatre performs at the River Center. The troupe, touring for its 36th season, is known for a combination of modern, jazz, African and spiritual works from nationally and internationally known choreographers. The show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $28-$48. For more information, click here.
Director Walter Salles' adaptation of Jack Kerouac's iconic novel, On the Road, will be screened at the Manship Theatre Saturday and Sunday night. The film follows the story of Sal Paradise, played here by Sam Riley, a young writer who has his life all mixed up by the arrival of Dean Moriarty (Garrett Hedlund) and Dean's lady-friend, Marylou (Kristen Stewart). Tickets for the screenings are $8.50. There will be two screenings each night, at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. This film is rated R. For more information, click here.
Baton Rouge's own Henry Gray is a living legend in every sense of the phrase. Over the course seven decades behind the piano, Gray has performed with some of the greatest blues players ever to walk the face of the planet, guys like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Bo Diddley, Sonny Boy Williamson II and Little Walter to name just a few.
It's not unusual for WAFB to dominate local news ratings. But the most recent Nielsen book, which reflects what local viewers were watching in February, gives the CBS affiliate one of its strongest showings ever—including a whopping 48 share during the first hour of its morning newscast, three times as much as competitor WBRZ-TV. A share point reflects the percentage of television sets in use during a given time tuned into a particular show. Perhaps more significantly, WAFB's numbers in all time slots are up or flat over the previous year, which is no small feat in a media world where online and mobile devices are increasingly cutting into audience share.
B.R. hotels report strong bookings due to Bayou Country Superfest
Occupancy rates at local hotels over Memorial Day weekend have been skyrocketing over the past few years due to Bayou Country Superfest, which is set for Saturday and Sunday of the upcoming holiday weekend. Last year's Memorial weekend occupancy rate for Saturday jumped to 94% from 61% in 2009—the year before the country music festival began—according to a study by Smith Travel Research, which calculated rates using the entire Capital Region. Those healthy numbers are expected to continue with this year's festival, but a local tourism official says the upward trajectory should start to level off. "There's not a lot of room for growth," says Renee Areng, executive vice president of Visit Baton Rouge. "If we were to venture to do just the parish of Baton Rouge, I would speculate (occupancy) will be close to 100 percent." With country acts such as Luke Bryan, Lady Antebellum and Miranda Lambert, the annual event at Tiger Stadium is changing the way area fans of country music...
'225 Weekender': Bayou Country Superfest is here
We all know where Louisiana country music fans will be this weekend. Bayou Country Superfest kicks off two days of live music in LSU's Tiger Stadium on Saturday. This year's performers include Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert and Darius Rucker on Saturday; and Zac Brown Band, Luke Bryan and The Band Perry on Sunday. The event also provides a free Fan Fest stage outside the stadium, which will feature performances from Yvette Landry, Jaryd Lane and The Parish, among others. For more festival details, ticket information and sound clips from a few bands set to play here this weekend, read a 225 story here. Also, check out 225 Editor Jeff Roedel's interview with Miranda Lambert here. And if you're going to Bayou Country Superfest, feel free to submit your videos to 225
The Coda presents its spring dance concert
Under the director of instructors Micaela Coner and Stephanie Faucette, students from the local dance studio The Coda will perform dance routines from various genres in its second-ever spring concert this weekend. This Saturday's shows will hit on everything from ballet to jazz to hip-hop with performances at 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $9.50. For more information, visit manshiptheatre.org.
Bayou Country Superfest is here
We all know where Louisiana country fans will be this weekend—Bayou Country Superfest kicks off Saturday in LSU's Tiger Stadium with two days of live music. Among this year's performers are Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert and Darius Rucker on Saturday; and the Zac Brown Band, Luke Bryan and The Band Perry on Sunday. The event also includes the free Fan Fest stage outside the stadium, which includes performances from Yvette Landry, Jaryd Lane and The Parish and others. For more information on tickets, who you can't miss and to hear a few bands playing this year, read 225's article here. Also, check out Jeff Roedel's interview with Miranda Lambert here.
Stunning jewelry display
In the market for a show-stopping new accessory? Don't miss the Gypsy Jewelry trunk show, happening through tomorrow at NK Boutique. Complimentary wine will be served, and designer Jeannette Simon will be on hand to offer styling tips. Plus, each purchase puts you in the running for a free pair of earrings. More info can be found here.
CONTOUR: Hemline@LSU's annual fashion show tonight
Forget what you know about fashion and experience new threads courtesy of Hemline@LSU's seventh annual fashion show, CONTOUR, tonight at 8 p.m. the Lyceum Dean Ballroom (Map it!). Hemline@LSU is a student-run organization, and tonight's show will feature original designs constructed through the curriculum as well as outside competition pieces. Also on hand will be Project Runway All Stars winner Anthony Ryan's ROAR foundation, an exhibit focused on developing personal and professional growth through designing apparel for women facing adversity. Tickets are $7 for students, $10 general admission, and $5 for children under the age of 12. Tickets can be purchased online.
Live to Dance
Revolution Dance Company will present its sixth annual public performance at the Manship Theatre. The local dance company's show is dubbed "Vivere Saltere," which translates to "Live to Dance," and promises to be an illuminating spectacle. There will be two performances Saturday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $13. For more information, visit manshiptheatre.org.
Festival darling Gimme the Loot shown at Manship this week
One of the last year's cinematic surprises was Gimme the Loot. The film focuses on two determined graffiti writers who are trying to tag the ultimate location: the New York Mets' Home Run Apple. Directed and written by newcomer Adam Leon, Gimme the Loot has won critical praise as well as a few awards, including Best Narrative Feature at the South by Southwest competition. View the trailer here. The film will be shown at Manship Theatre Wednesday and Thursday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8.50.
'Business Report': An in-depth look at B.R.'s newest power broker, John Georges
In 1999, John Georges went into the tugboat business. It was unchartered territory for him. Though he had a successful wholesale distribution company and a thriving video poker business, offshore maritime was a totally new ballgame. The business was extremely tough and capital intensive. Though Georges, by his own account, did well with the company—growing market share and making money—he ultimately was unable to compete with the real heavyweights in the industry. Taking them on would have required either devoting all his resources to tugboats, or remaining a niche player, and being a niche player isn't Georges' style. He is not one to compete with anyone who puts him at a competitive disadvantage from which he cannot emerge victorious. He is hard-wired to win. Lives for it. Thrives on it. If he can't be first, he would sooner move on than settle. His life and career are a testament to that drive and determination. He is among the top 10 convenience store wholesalers in...
Brave new world
In the business world, “adapt or die” is a truism. The ubiquity of the Internet is altering—in some cases, radically upending—the models for all sorts of industries. Exhibit A: the current turmoil in print journalism.
Start your presses
When I was growing up in Baton Rouge, after my family moved here from New Orleans just before I was born, The Times-Picayune was thrown in our yard each morning. After school, I would get on my bike to deliver The State-Times, the afternoon counterpart of the then-called Morning Advocate.
By design
The buildings of LSU not only reveal a legacy that goes back to the Renaissance but also serve as a primer of architectural principles that guided the creation of one of the most unique academic environments in the United States. In The Architecture of LSU, author, professor and architect J. Michael Desmond traces the university's development, including photographs, plans, drawings and maps that underscore the contributions of historical figures and the genealogies of the campus's architecture and planning. By detailing the origins and evolution of LSU's architectural core and exploring the fundamentals of American college campus design, Desmond shows the rewards of public environments that integrate natural and constructed elements to meet both practical and aesthetic goals. The Architecture of LSU is available from LSU Press.
What does new ownership mean?
The news was already half a day old when the press conference announcing John Georges' acquisition of The Advocate took place. But the May 1 media briefing officially passing the torch of ownership was noteworthy not so much for what was said—it was predictable enough—but for who was in attendance: New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu.
Dyke Nelson Architecture wins Grow Mid City competition
Dyke Nelson says his architectural firm will use the $10,000 it received in taking first place in the Grow Mid City business plan competition to purchase additional equipment that will allow it to manufacture more eco-friendly products itself rather than outsource that work. "For example, we recently built a couple bistro tables for Rock-n-Sake. We designed those but had to have them fabricated off-site and then assemble them here," Nelson says. "The idea is to create a real tight circle with our production, keep it all in-house, and ship off products that are truly sustainable—and eventually provide an option to purchase those products through our website." Nelson says his firm uses a "tremendous amount of recycled materials" for its products, which range from furniture and lighting fixtures to panels and installation pieces, many of which come from historic properties. Along with Dyke Nelson Architecture—or DNA Workshop, as it's also known—two other Mid City...
'Times-Pic' transformation a 'jaw-dropping blunder,' says 'NY Times' columnist
"Clearly, commanding a market to change on a dime because it suits your business plan does not mean readers will obey," says The New York Times' David Carr in a column Sunday. "Just ask Advance Publications, owned by the Newhouse family, which is back to where it started in New Orleans with The Times-Picayune." The attempted transformation of The Times-Picayune to a digitally focused news organization—initially scaling back publication to just three days a week, but more recently reversing course and launching a new publication called TPStreet to once again have a printed product every day—has been "a jaw-dropping blunder to watch," Carr says. "Advance misjudged the marketplace … and failed to execute a modern digital strategy. Now it is in full retreat with new competition," he writes. The Advocate has been raiding The Times-Picayune's editorial staff since new owner John Georges purchased the newspaper, Carr notes, and is...
McKnight: We want elephants at Baton Rouge Zoo
BREC Superintendent Carolyn McKnight says she's talking to various groups about building a new elephant exhibit for the Baton Rouge Zoo. "We want elephants at our zoo, and the way that we have to do that is to build a new exhibit," McKnight says. She's hoping the parish will reauthorize a property tax dedicated to BREC next year that will allow for an elephant exhibit. If the tax is renewed, McKnight says BREC could leverage public dollars with private donations to carry out the project. Judy the elephant died in March and the zoo plans to host a going-away party for Bozie, a 37-year-old Asian elephant, on Saturday, May 18. She will be leaving the zoo shortly after that for the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, D.C. Because elephants are a herd species, zoo officials say they couldn't leave Bozie alone after her 46-year-old companion died. —April Castro
Preach, Father John Misty
"You guys having an exciting time at this folk rock show?" Josh Tillman, a.k.a. Father John Misty, snickered last night in between songs at his One Eyed Jacks' performance.
City Park, sans golf course?
Edging closer to 1,000 signatures, an online petition is bringing the debate about City Park's golf course back into the limelight. Should the 9-hole course be maintained and City Park grow around it, or should it be eliminated and the grounds added to the park's existing green space?
Greek Fest moved indoors due to weather concerns
A stormy weekend forecast has prompted organizers of the Baton Rouge Greek Festival to move Saturday's event indoors. Instead of being held at North Boulevard Town Square downtown, the second annual festival will now take place in the atrium of the Belle of Baton Rouge, 103 France St. The hours are staying the same: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Overnight and early-morning thunderstorms knocked out power for about 6,000 Entergy customers in Baton Rouge, and there are continued warnings of possible severe weather and flash flooding in the area. Heavy rain is expected to last into the weekend, with an 80% chance of rain Saturday. Though the forecast is also calling for a 70% chance of rain through this evening, DDD Executive Director Davis Rhorer says Live After Five has not been canceled as of this morning. "We don't know at this point in time if it's going to be affected [by the weather], but for now it's still on for 5 to 8 p.m. at Repentance Park," Rhorer says. —Steve...
Four local rock bands team up for clean water efforts Sunday
Sunday evening at Mud and Water (Map it!) promises to be a rocking time, thanks to a stacked bill of local bands including Circa Amore, Cattle Drive, Baby Boy and The Melters. Proceeds from the show will benefit the Lower Mississippi Riverkeeper and Gulf Restoration Network. Raffles and prize drawings will also be held. Doors open at 7 p.m. Cover is $5.
For a complete list of this week's shows, click here.
Teen poetry grand slam finals at Manship Saturday
After a week of semifinals, the top local teens will show off their clever wordplay and performance skills for audiences in Saturday's ALL CITY grand slam finals at the Manship Theatre. The event features some of the city's best young voices, competing for an opportunity to represent Baton Rouge at the Brave New Voices International Poetry Slam this summer in Chicago. The show kicks off at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15. Student and senior pricing is also available. For more information, visit manshiptheatre.org.
High-energy humor this weekend at Funny Bone
John Stites draws humor from his diverse life experiences. Stites has worked as a college language professor, spent time in the Army, been a bar bouncer and a corporate executive. So, one would think he has a lot to sift through for his comedic tales. See for yourself Friday and Saturday night at the Funny Bone. Stites will perform twice on both days. The 7:30 p.m. shows are no smoking. The 10:30 p.m. shows allow smoking. Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased online. You must be 21 to enter.
Manship screens political drama No Wednesday night
Manship Theatre will screen the Oscar-nominated foreign film, No, Wednesday. The film features a brilliant performance from Gael García Bernal, who plays René Saavedra, a Chilean PR man who tries to mount a press campaign against General Augusto Pinochet in 1988. The film's screening starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8.50. Student and senior pricing is also available. No is rated R. View the trailer here.
Funny lady: Kathy Griffin Saturday at L'Auberge
Kathy Griffin has quite the résumé. She's a two-time Emmy winner, a Grammy nominee and a New York Times bestselling author. Wait, we forgot to mention she's also a hilarious veteran comedienne. Griffin will perform at L'Auberge Casino & Hotel's event center Saturday. Doors open at 7 p.m. Show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online through Ticketmaster.
Newspaper rivalry good for readers
When I was growing up in Baton Rouge, after my family moved here from New Orleans just before I was born, The Times-Picayune was thrown in our yard each morning. After school, I would get on my bike to deliver The State-Times, the afternoon counterpart of the then-called Morning Advocate.
Maginnis: Newspaper rivalry good for readers
When I was growing up in Baton Rouge, after my family moved here from New Orleans just before I was born, The Times-Picayune was thrown in our yard each morning. After school, I would get on my bike to deliver The State-Times, the afternoon counterpart of the then-called Morning Advocate. Besides the paper route, I've never worked for either paper (this is a syndicated column), but as with most of their dual readers, their newly engaged business rivalry holds my attention as much as any stories they publish these days. On May 1, both papers ran front-page banner headlines announcing their big changes: "Georges buys Advocate" and "T-P adding newsstand tab 3 days a week." The great south Louisiana newspaper war is on. This one is unlike those from the early 20th century in big cities, when the struggle was between two established papers rooted in the same market. New publisher John Georges plans to expand on The Advocate's recent incursion into New Orleans,...
Five things you need to know about Gatsby
Oscar-nominated director Baz Luhrman's fifth feature film, and first in five years, arrives Friday. Here are five things you need to know about it, the latest adaptation (and first in 3D) of The Great Gatsby.
The problem with Iron expectations
Tomorrow, Iron Man 3 will be released, will be a hit across the globe, and be solidified as the second-best Iron Man film ever made.
Meet the designer
Art meets fashion tomorrow at the Annieglass trunk show, taking place at Carriages Ladies Store. Designer and Smithsonian glass artist Annie Morhauser will visit the Bocage Village boutique from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Shoppers will have the opportunity to see items up close from her popular collections, including Salt, Sea Life, and Sail. The artist's 30th anniversary line, Dew Drops, will also be on display. Refreshments, complimentary engraving and a raffle will add to the fun of the event. Find more information here.
Governor, mayors join Georges in announcing 'Advocate' buy
No less than Gov. Bobby Jindal, Mayor Kip Holden and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu joined the new owner and publisher of The Advocate, John Georges, at a news conference this morning to officially announce the New Orleans businessman's acquisition of the state's largest daily paper. In a crowded conference room at The Advocate headquarters, Georges spoke glowingly about his predecessors, the Manship family, the Baton Rouge market and the opportunities presented by this latest of his many business ventures. He also introduced his two top managers: veteran journalists Dan Shea, general manager, and Peter Kovacs, editor. But the event was more a passing of the torch than a briefing on what changes may be in store for the newspaper or on the terms of the sale, which were not disclosed. Outgoing publisher David Manship, whose family operated the daily for more than a century, delivered an emotional farewell to his longtime employees and co-workers. Later, his brother,...
Of Montreal performs Sunday at The Varsity
Indie rock fans should check out Of Montreal's performance Sunday at The Varsity. The prolific Athens, Ga., band has been around for more than 15 years, releasing its heady mix of dance-rock tunes. This year, the band will release its 11th studio full-length, Lousy with Sylvanbriar. Lead singer Kevin Barnes says the album is influenced by the poetry of Sylvia Plath and the music of The Grateful Dead—so that should be interesting. Doors open Sunday at 7 p.m.; the show starts at 8 p.m. Wild Moccasins will open. Tickets are $17 and available online.
For a complete list of this week's shows, click here.
'Sur le Papier' at Frameworks Saturday
Frameworks Gallery will present its new exhibit "Sur le Papier" on Saturday. The display features a range of contemporary art where paper is the primary medium. Among the artists in the exhibit are June Gonce, Jovann Armstrong, Van Wade Day and many more. Restaurant IPO's On the Go food truck will also be there offering brunch items and mimosas. The event starts at 11 a.m. For more information, click here.
Swan Lake Saturday at LSU Union Theater
The classic ballet, Swan Lake, will be performed Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the LSU Union Theater. The Russian National Ballet Theatre will present the classic show, and this will be the first time the full-length ballet will be performed in Baton Rouge. Tickets range from $36 to $44. For more information, visit the LSU Union Theatre website.
Comedian Steve Hirst at Funny Bone this weekend
British funnyman Steve Hirst will perform at the Funny Bone Comedy Club Friday and Saturday night. Hirst’s act has been described as a mix between Benny Hill’s absurd humor and the in-your-face style of Guy Ritchie’s feature film Snatch. Hirst will perform twice Friday and Saturday, a no-smoking show at 7:30 p.m. and a 10 p.m. show where smoking is allowed. Tickets range from $10 to $15 and can be purchased through the Funny Bone website. You must be 21 or older to enter the club.
Slim Harpo Music Awards Wednesday at Manship
Since 2003, the Slim Harpo Music Awards have recognized those Louisiana greats who have taken blues to an entirely different level across the country and globe. This year's awards ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Manship Theatre, with honorees including Warren Storm, Harvey Knox, "Guitar Gable" Perrodin, Jockey Etienne and blues ambassador and producer David Kearns. Tickets are $35, and proceeds benefit the Music in the Schools outreach program.
'Rock' out at the River Center Thursday
Perhaps one of the biggest Broadway surprises of the past decade, Rock of Ages, is coming to Baton Rouge. Featuring of-the-era hit songs, Rock of Ages tells the story of a young rock 'n' roller in the '80s who wants to make something more of his life. Some of the choice music cuts include "Nothin' But a Good Time," "We Built This City," "Can't Fight This Feeling" and "Any Way You Want It." The touring production starts at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the River Center. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.
'Advocate' to ramp up run at 'Times-Pic' under new ownership
Dan Shea, the former managing editor of The Times-Picayune who has been tapped as new general manager of The Advocate, tells Poynter that the Baton Rouge daily is looking to compete with the New Orleans paper head on under its new owner, John Georges. "Our plan is simple," Shea says. "Give the people of metro New Orleans what they want: a seven-day, home-delivered truly local newspaper. We'll provide the resources to get that done quickly." As reported by Daily Report on Tuesday afternoon, Shea and Peter Kovacs—also a former managing editor at The Times-Picayune—have been hired to lead The Advocate under its new ownership. The Advocate officially announced...
'Advocate' buyer mum on new 'Times-Pic' publications
As New Orleans businessman John Georges prepares to close on his pending acquisition of The Advocate—a deal which could be finalized in the next few days, according to sources—NOLA media group, parent company of The Times-Picayune, has announced that it's adding another print product to the marketplace this summer. TPStreet will appear in a tabloid-size format in the New Orleans area on newsstands and in newspaper boxes only, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays—days when The Times-Picayune is not published. Georges declines to comment on the latest development in the increasingly competitive battle for subscribers between the New Orleans and Baton Rouge newspapers. "My sole focus is on The Advocate," Georges tells Daily Report. "I don't focus on potential competitors." Meanwhile, sources say Georges' editorial...
Horse People
If success in fiction depends on creating characters who seem not just believable but actual, then Cary Holladay succeeds wildly in Horse People, the latest issue in the Yellow Shoe Fiction series out of LSU Press.
Staff Playlist
“Let Me Move You”
JIMI HENDRIX
New collection People, Hell & Angels provides a different take on Hendrix's brilliance through experimental recordings and previously unreleased studio material. The energetic “Let Me Move You,” with sax and vocals by the legendary Lonnie Youngblood, is a lively gem full of the R&B funk and wah-wah sounds that blues fans are sure to enjoy.
Das a real hero, cher
He's a Coast Guard veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. His city is a cold shadow of its former self. And he is out for blood—perhaps literally.
So hot, so cool
Imagine strolling at dusk in and out of Mid City shops filled with live music and hors d'oeuvres, browsing past paintings, sculptures and ceramics all created by local artists. This will be the scene May 10 when Mid City Merchants presents Hot Art, Cool Nights.
Music: Best Bets
The erratic, psychedelic and weirdly funky music of indie pop ensemble Of Montreal will fill the Varsity early this month. The band, building on more than a decade of wild performances and music, has been on tour supporting 2012's Paralytic Stalks, an album of new music, and Daughter of Cloud, a compilation of unreleased and rare tracks. They stop in Baton Rouge May 5 with Wild Moccasins as the opening act. varsitytheatre.com
Climbing the musical mountain
Local singer-songwriter Peter Simón is perhaps best known for his talents on the guitar. Yet, for all his proficiency on that instrument, he actually grew up playing something else.
Pistol packin'
The daughter of East Texas private detectives, Miranda Lambert was taught from an early age how to handle a gun. At 29, she still hunts deer in season.
A Haven for the creative
A typical Sunday morning at church may include fellowship, a sermon and prayer, and that's pretty much what you'll find at Haven Church on the Sabbath Day. But on Fridays and Saturdays, you'll more likely find secular-leaning local art and musicians, and quite possibly a bottle of whiskey—because Haven is far from your typical church.
It all ends now!
The heat isn't the only brutal thing about summer. This season's movies are all about the destruction of the planet, the killing of our heroes, even the cutthroat nature of corporate America and the 1%. As Iron Man 3, The Great Gatsby and Star Trek Into Darkness rule the box office this month, here is a look ahead to eight of summer's biggest new arrivals.
Audio and visuals
A film score can often make or break the movie-watching experience—the swells or abrupt booms of an orchestra direct you when to feel emotion or when to jump in fear. When it comes to classic silent films, the addition of a score later can create a new experience entirely.
Arts: Best Bets
It's a month of all things jazz at downtown museums right now. As a professor at Xavier in New Orleans and a native son of the Lower Ninth Ward, John T. Scott mentored many artists and incorporated the improvisational style and rhythm of jazz music into his work. He called his process “jazz thinking,” and his vibrant paintings, prints and kinetic sculptures bring to mind instruments in West African culture, the legacy of local jazz legends and even the traditions of jazz funerals and second lines. The exhibit, “Rhythm & Improvisation: John T. Scott & His Enduring Legacy,” organized by Louisiana Art & Science Museum (lasm.org), is on view all this month at the museum and ends July 14.
New wall in bloom
Maggie Kleinpeter has a long history with downtown Baton Rouge.
Pretty in pink
There is no textbook on how to paint a swimsuit. If there ever is, its author just might be 22-year-old Baton Rouge native Adrienne Connelly.
My favorite summer movies
Top 5 from Aaron Bayham, operations manager, Raleigh Studios at the Celtic Media Centre
The flip side
Imagine smelling the sweet scent of coconut. You hear laid-back music. You see palm trees. And sandals everywhere.
My favorite summer road trip songs
Better Than Ezra's Kevin Griffin gives 225 his advice on the best car songs for this summer.
Art Melt keeps it cool
A new venue, a new setting and a 10th anniversary celebration for Art Melt—that's what's in store for fans of the popular annual juried art event downtown this year.
All summer lawn
Oscar winner The Artist introduced a whole new generation to silent cinema in 2011.
Lend me your ears
jodijamesmusic.com
"I just bought Josh Ritter's new record, The Beast In Its Tracks. He's brilliant, as always. Word on the Nashville street—I'll be move there soon—is that Johnny Depp is living there and working on a project with Jack White, and I'm definitely interested in whatever comes of that collaboration."
Frankly, Scarlett
From the opening scene of Lost in Translation I thought, “Yeah, in 10 years this girl's going to be kicking a lot of people in the throat.”
Bijoux shopping spree
The Grace George sample sale happens next week. Don't miss your chance to snag one-of-a-kind items from this popular local line! The stunning wares of designers Shelly Dick and Amy Howe range from bracelets for every mood to statement necklaces and elegant earrings. The sale is slated for May 2 and 3 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the design headquarters, 2051 Silverside Drive. New goods will be available each day, so stop by more than once to see what catches your eye.
Swimwear answers
Sail smoothly into swimsuit season with the perfect beach ensemble. Shoppers will find dozens of chic swimwear styles during the Ophelia Beach Wear trunk show, happening Monday and Tuesday at Edit by LBP. Luxurious collections such as L*Space, La Perla, Tori Praver and Heidi Klein will be on display. If you're behind on this season's trends, get styling tips by Ophelia owner, Tori Pickren Von Hoene, who will be on-site to share expert advice. For more details, click here.
Events outside the box
Upstairs at a warehouse on Main Street near downtown, artist Raina Wirta is standing atop a very tall ladder, adjusting the lighting above a giant, furry (yes, furry) dome-like structure that hangs from the ceiling. The LSU MFA candidate unveiled her exhibition “(un)familiar” to a crowd last Friday. Earlier that week, she was busy putting together the finishing touches.
Art Wine Design at Southdowns Village Thursday
An evening of live music, fine art and good food is on tap Thursday at Southdowns Village shopping center in the sixth annual Art Wine Design event. Among the participating merchants are Ann Connelly Fine Art, Monochrome Furniture, Front Door, Blon Salon, Jeannie Frey Rhodes, Stafford Tile and Stone, Glo Beauty Bar, Spectrum Southdowns, Bella Bridesmaid, LD Linens and Décor, Rollie Noelie and many more. Artwork purchased Thursday will be sold without sales tax. Musicians including Michael Foster and Hubbard, Decker & Rhodes will be performing in the shopping center as well. Art Wine Design kicks off at 6 p.m.
Of Moving Colors at Manship Theatre Thursday
Of Moving Colors, a local professional dance company, closes out its 26th season with a performance Thursday night at the Manship Theatre. The show, "P.S.425" is a collaboration with LSU College of Art and Design's Nadine Carter Russell Chair Peter Shire, whose recent exhibits were shown at galleries across the city. Dancers will perform using interactive set pieces designed by Shire, including a catwalk, whimsical chairs, thrones and more. A free pre-performance reception will be held at Glassell Gallery at 6:30 p.m. The show begins at 7:30 p.m., followed by a free post-performance reception at Glassell at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $25. For more information, click here.
Uncommon Fashion show at Hartley/Vey Friday
Three stylish local stores are coming together to help out a downtown venue. Noelie Harmon, Time Warp Boutique and Hazel & Florange will show off choice outfits Friday in the Uncommon Fashion show benefiting Hartley/Vey Theatres. The event kicks off at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased via Hartley/Vey’s website.
Dancing for Big Buddy at PMAC Saturday
Local celebs will dance the night away for a good cause Saturday night at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center for the 2013 edition of Dancing for Big Buddy. Modeled after the hit ABC show Dancing with the Stars, the event features local stars performing Saturday night, 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Some of the dancers include LSU Women's Basketball coach Nikki Caldwell, Mestizo owner Jim Urdiales, WBRZ anchor Rosa Flores and many more. Tickets are $10. For more information and a full list of celebrity dancers, click here.
Louisiana film festival exceeds organizer's expectations
The Louisiana International Film Festival debuted across Baton Rouge and New Orleans over the weekend, screening world and state premieres at multiple venues as well as hosting industry discussions. Chesley Heymsfield, the festival's executive director, says she was delighted with the positive response for the inaugural event. "I'm always impressed by how the festival is able to influence people," Heymsfield says. "A lot of that hard work from our team and our supporters, it comes to fruition when people show up." Among the films at this year's movie showcase were The Iceman, an action drama starring Michael Shannon, and The East, a sleeper hit from the Sundance Film Festival. Both films were shot in Shreveport. Other films shown included Michel Gondry's The We and I, the critically acclaimed Gimme the Loot, and the documentary Room 237. Director Robert Zemeckis was also on hand Saturday in support of his wife Leslie's documentary, Bound by...
The royal We
Since his fanciful failure The Science of Sleep, a post-brilliance pass he was given after the artistic triumph that was Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, French director Michel Gondry has spent the past seven years in a creative wilderness, trying his hand at big budget action (The Green Hornet), an esoteric familial documentary (The Thorn in the Heart), and a dated misstep disguised as a buddy comedy (Be Kind Rewind), and with it all not making a single stride out from the shadow of Sunshine, his Oscar-winning collaboration with screenwriter Charlie Kaufman.
'225 Weekender': International film festival kicks off in B.R. Friday
Many studio and independent films have called Louisiana home over the past few years. And whether they've used the state's local flair as scenery, like the hit Pitch Perfect, or simply used a local studio, like Oblivion, the state has made a name for itself as one of the places to make movies. This weekend, the inaugural Louisiana International Film Festival will screen a bevy of feature films and documentaries in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, as well as host a number of mentorship programs, to foster and celebrate the state's creative filmmaking spirit. The festival kicks off in New Orleans Thursday night with a screening of Twenty Feet from Stardom at the Joy Theatre. Events in Baton Rouge, which will take place at multiple venues, begin on Friday. For a full schedule, ticket prices and more information, visit the festival website. Get the lowdown on more local happenings on tap for this weekend in the new...
Of Moving Colors finale
Dancers from Baton Rouge's only contemporary dance-theater company take the stage Thursday, April 25, for their final performance of the season. Of Moving Colors will present P.S. 425 at the Manship Theatre on a custom, interactive set designed by renowned sculptor and designer Peter Shire, artist in residence at LSU. A pre-performance champagne reception begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Glassell Gallery within the Shaw Center. Click here or call 344-0334 for more information. (Photo by David Humphreys)
Trunk show with exotic charm
Collectible jewelry with worldwide appeal will be on display April 24 at Kiki in Perkins Rowe. The boutique will host a trunk show highlighting the wares of Dodo, a line of Italian charms, cords and bracelets, named for the now extinct flightless bird of Mauritius. Each charm has its own meaning, and can be worn alone or in a mix—whichever strikes your fancy. A portion of proceeds from the collection benefits the World Wildlife Fund Italy, a fact that more than charms us.
LSU Opera presents Impressions de Pelléas this weekend
Opera fans won't want to miss the LSU School of Music performance of Peter Brook's critically acclaimed Impressions de Pelléas this weekend at the Shaver Theatre. The show ventures into the world of impressionism with music from Claude Debussy as the mysterious backdrop. Show times are Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20. Discounts are available for students and seniors. For more information, click here.
Paige Brown's macro-photography at The Haven Friday
Dive into the world of extreme close-up photography Friday, as science communicator and macro-photographer Paige Brown will show off her work at The Haven Gallery and Listening Room, 651 Laurel St. The exhibit features a personal, detailed look at elements of nature we might take for granted. The free show runs 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Complimentary coffee will be available. For more information, click here.
Louisiana International Film Festival kicks off in B.R. Friday
Many studio and independent films have called Louisiana home over the past years. Whether a film has used the state's local flair and scenery, like the hit Pitch Perfect, or used a local studio, like this weekend's Oblivion, Louisiana has made a name for itself as one of "the" places to make movies.
This weekend, the inaugural Louisiana International Film Festival will host a bevy of feature films, documentaries and mentorship programs in New Orleans and Baton Rouge to foster and celebrate the state's creative filmmaking spirit.
'Wipeout'-style water park coming to Watson area
For anyone who has ever watched the ABC television series Wipeout and boasted, "Oh, I could do that," the opportunity to prove it has arrived. Cajun Lagoon—the Capital Region's newest amusement park—offers what's called aqua challenge courses. Essentially obstacle courses made of inflatables, there's the Wibit Sports Park for the truly brave, and the Aqua Circuit with shallow-water activities such as the Hurdle, the Wiggle Bridge and the Wibit Hand. The 13-acre park near Watson is slated to open May 4. Owners Chuck and Melissa Ray and their parents, Chuck and Lori Taylor, are veterans of the business; they've been operating a party rental firm, Amusements of Denham Springs, for nearly a decade. The business owners have been building Cajun Lagoon for about a year to meet customer demand for a family-friendly entertainment venue. "For a long time, we've had people calling, wanting us to host parties with the waterslides and stuff," Melissa Ray says. "So I started...
Mid City included in new Creative Communities Initiative
Baton Rouge's Mid City is one of 10 communities included in a new program aiming to assist Louisiana cities with reaching cultural and economic development goals. The 10 communities selected to take part in the Louisiana Creative Communities Program were named in an announcement issued Thursday by Lt. Gov. Jay Dardenne. In addition to Mid City, participating communities are: Lake Charles, Minden, Mandeville, Washington and Plaquemine, as well as Houma, two areas in Monroe and a collaborative effort in Sunset, Grand Couteau and Arnaudville. Civic leaders in the 10 communities are to be paired with a coach to participate in a six-month training and planning process, after which the communities will receive a $3,000 grant to help implement their plans. No specific plans for each community have yet been revealed. Each participating community is required to produce a tangible product, which could be a plan, report or other outcome, depending on the stated goal. The program, which...
'225 Weekender': Baton Rouge Blues Festival is Saturday
Celebrate swamp blues in its birthplace at the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, taking place downtown Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The festival features performances across two stages as well as backstage interviews inside the Old State Capitol. Headlining this year's festival is Bobby Rush, while Robert Randolph & The Family Band, C.C. Adcock & The Lafayette Marquis, Henry Gray and many more will also perform. The festival is free and open to the public. You can find complete details, including a full lineup and schedule, here. There are a number of other blues-centric events happening Friday and throughout the weekend. Find out about them and other local events in the new 225 Weekender e-newsletter here.
No Place like home
Such a rare sight is Derek Cianfrance's familial epic The Place Beyond the Pines, it is with great ease that it buries itself inside of you, it haunts you, or as Ryan Gosling's inked-up motorcycle maniac "Handsome Luke" would say, it "sticks around."
Saturday Arts for Families at LSU Museum of Art
The LSU Museum of Art will ask families to "Take a Seat" in this weekend's Saturday Arts for Families event, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The program will explore questions such as "What is considered art anyway?" and explore pieces throughout the museum. For more information, click here.
Good blues: Baton Rouge Blues Festival Saturday
Celebrate the weekend in the birthplace of the swamp blues with the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday. The event features performances across two stages and backstage interviews inside the Old State Capitol. This year's performers include C.C. Adcock & The Lafayette Marquis, Henry Gray and guests, Robert Randolph & The Family Band and many more. The festival is free and open to the public. For more information, including a full lineup and schedule, visit batonrougebluesfestival.org.
Generationals, England in 1819 Thursday at Mud and Water
Fresh off the release of its third full-length album, Heza, Generationals will perform Thursday night at Mud and Water, 174 South Blvd. The band's new album has been called a step forward as the duo continues to develop its '80s-obsessed, intimate pop-rock. Check out Benjamin Leger's article on the band and its new album here. Baton Rouge band England in 1819 will open the show. Doors open at 9 p.m. Tickets are $10.
For a full list of shows happening this week, click here.
A better block is upon us
This weekend marks the beginning of a transformation on Government Street with the Better Block BR project. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on the two blocks between Bedford and Beverly drives, residents will get to see a model of what Government Street could look like if we push local and state officials to update the roadway to a safer, more “complete street” model.
"I like it, but I don't?"
I found the most accurate review of Girls in the comments section on The A.V. Club.
Movie theatre mogul 'Teddy' Solomon dies at 93
Louisiana movie theater mogul Theodore "Teddy" George Solomon Sr., who brought megaplex stadium theaters to south Louisiana, died Sunday. He was 93. Solomon started a seven-decade career in the theater business as a child working in a silent-movie house built by his father and uncle. He would grow the family's single film venue into more than 600 theaters and drive-ins in eight states, according to a statement from a family spokesman issued today. After graduating from LSU and serving in World War II, Solomon returned to the South and formed Gulf States Theatres, through which he went on to build and operate more than 300 drive-in movie theaters. He sold the business in 1972 but later bought half of it back with his six children, transitioning the business from drive-ins to indoor screens. He again sold the business in 1986. By the mid-90s, Solomon opened a 20-screen stadium theater in New Orleans, which became wildly popular and would precede four more such theaters in the New...
Road more traveled
"I was a young writer trying to take off." With this subtle, ironic confession, Jack Kerouac's lyrical cipher Sal Paradise introduces himself in the long awaited screen adaptation of his iconic Beat Generation novel On the Road.
Stark raving mad
Actor Joe Chrest has never seen the Sean Penn-led 2006 adaptation of All the King's Men, and he doesn't want to. Audiences may be relieved that the stage and screen veteran, portraying Jack Burden—the novel's flawed narrator and conflicted associate of the Huey P. Long-esque Gov. Willie Stark—is not basing his latest theatrical performance on the Baton Rouge-set film most critics called a missed opportunity.
Roger that
In ancient Rome, the thumbs of the crowd decided a gladiator's fate. Contrary to later Hollywood tradition, thumbs down signaled the victor to shield his sword. Thumbs up meant, "Go on, off with his head!"
This week's movies
Trance (in select theaters Friday)
Starring James McAvoy, Rosario Dawson and Vincent Cassel. Rated R. Check out Jeff Roedel's preview on the film from this month's 225. View the trailer here.
Evil Dead (in theaters Friday)
Before Sam Raimi was known for his mega-successful Spider-Man trilogy, he was a B-movie horror director, known for his lo-fi mix of shock, humor and gross-out gags. His Evil Dead trilogy has become a cult classic. This Friday, a remake will hit theaters. Though fans of the original might balk at the suggestion of Evil Dead being remade, Raimi has given his blessing to director Fede Alvarez and is producing this updated take. More disturbing might be that Diablo Cody (the mind behind Juno, Young Adult and Jennifer's Body) co-wrote the script. Rated R.
Watch the trailer below:
Andrew Duhon to release new album at Mud and Water Saturday
Blues and folk by way of New Orleans' own Andrew Duhon will land at the Mud and Water stage Saturday. Duhon will perform selections from his new album, The Moorings for a CD release party. Denton Hatcher will open the show. Performances start at 10 p.m. Cover is $6.
Check out 'fine rhymes' at this week's Soul'd Out Sunday
Soul'd Out Sundays will showcase "The Connoisseur of Fine Rhyme" Slangston Hughes, 7 p.m. this Sunday at Gallery Bohemia, 3774 Government St. DJ Automatik will provide backing sounds. If you're a fan of good hip-hop, you won't want to miss this show. Admission is $5.
Blues Fest Listening Party at Radio Bar Thursday
In preparation for next weekend's big dance, the Baton Rouge Blues Festival will host a listening party at Radio Bar Thursday, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Leah Smith of WBRH will get you familiar with all the acts performing at the April 13 festival. You can also mingle with fellow blues enthusiasts and bid on portraits by artist TJ Black. Admission is free. Radio Bar will be offering drink specials throughout the night to benefit the Baton Rouge Blues Foundation. For more information, click here.
Sunday in the Park is back with Space Capone
Grab a picnic blanket Sunday and head downtown for a live music experience like no other. The Sunday in the Park series returns this weekend, with the '70s soul, funk and R&B fusion band Space Capone. Bring family and friends to enjoy this uniquely Baton Rouge way to kick back under oak trees on the Town Square lawn. This week's concert is slated for noon-2 p.m., and kicks off the final day of FestForAll. For more information, click here.
Louisiana's own Lindsay Rae Spurlock performs at Chelsea's Friday
What do you get when you mix piano with infectious energy and Louisiana style? OK, that's a really broad question, but you might find Lindsay Rae Spurlock—a talented singer-songwriter who has garnered praise for her pop tunes. Spurlock will perform at Chelsea's Cafe Friday at 10:30 p.m. For more information and to listen to Spurlock's acclaimed release Heart On, visit her website.
Live After Five returns Friday
The Capital City's premier—and free—outdoor concert series is back this Friday with a performance from New Orleans' funk band Phunkey Monkeys. The concert takes place in the renovated Repentance Park, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Check out the full schedule here.
Free Kids Art Party Sunday
The BR Walls Project will host a pot-luck lunch and painting party for children of all ages at the PODS Warehouse, 2056 Wooddale Blvd, Sunday. This will be a unique opportunity for families to collaborate with local artists to decorate a PODS storage container that will be featured in the Better Block BR event on April 13-14. No RSVP is required. Kid-friendly snacks, drinks or lunch items are welcome.
Dancing the night away at the River Center Saturday
One of Dallas' oldest and more diverse dance companies comes to Baton Rouge Saturday night, as the Dallas Black Dance Theatre performs at the River Center. The troupe, touring for its 36th season, is known for a combination of modern, jazz, African and spiritual works from nationally and internationally known choreographers. The show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets range from $28-$48. For more information, click here.
On the Road at Manship this weekend
Director Walter Salles' adaptation of Jack Kerouac's iconic novel, On the Road, will be screened at the Manship Theatre Saturday and Sunday night. The film follows the story of Sal Paradise, played here by Sam Riley, a young writer who has his life all mixed up by the arrival of Dean Moriarty (Garrett Hedlund) and Dean's lady-friend, Marylou (Kristen Stewart). Tickets for the screenings are $8.50. There will be two screenings each night, at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. This film is rated R. For more information, click here.
Henry Gray Residency
Baton Rouge's own Henry Gray is a living legend in every sense of the phrase. Over the course seven decades behind the piano, Gray has performed with some of the greatest blues players ever to walk the face of the planet, guys like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Bo Diddley, Sonny Boy Williamson II and Little Walter to name just a few.
Ratings rout
It's not unusual for WAFB to dominate local news ratings. But the most recent Nielsen book, which reflects what local viewers were watching in February, gives the CBS affiliate one of its strongest showings ever—including a whopping 48 share during the first hour of its morning newscast, three times as much as competitor WBRZ-TV. A share point reflects the percentage of television sets in use during a given time tuned into a particular show. Perhaps more significantly, WAFB's numbers in all time slots are up or flat over the previous year, which is no small feat in a media world where online and mobile devices are increasingly cutting into audience share.
Meeting (other) people is easy
Nostalgia is overrated, expensive, and hard on the senses.