CELEBRATE THE REBIRTH OF NEW ORLEANS

IN CARY THIS WEEKEND

Creole food, music and art to fill the air at Cary’s Herb Young Community Center

CARY, NC – The Town of Cary will kick it up a notch on Friday, February 23 when the Cajun flavor of New Orleans is celebrated with the Dukes of Dixieland ensemble as part of the Marvelous Music Series and Bruce Brice’s art exhibit entitled “New Orleans Celebrated” as part of Cary’s Art Loop.  Festivities kick off at 5:30 p.m. at the Herb Young Community Center , 101 Wilkinson Ave. , with a free artist reception for Bruce Brice – a New Orleans native who specializes in folk painting and prints. Then, the Dukes of Dixieland will share their authentic jazz and Dixieland sounds at 7:30 p.m. ; tickets are $18 (adults), $16 (seniors 55 and older) and $15 (children 12 and younger).  

“We look forward to celebrating the art, music and spirit that make New Orleans distinct,” said Performing Arts Coordinator Sarah Bunch.  “This show is extra special because these artists represent the rebirth of the area, having survived Hurricane Katrina themselves.  Everyone is invited to come out for a fun cultural experience.”

In recognition of Mardi Gras, other venues participating in the Cary Art Loop will give beads away to the public from 6-7:30 p.m.   After collecting the beads, guests can bring them to the Herb Young Community Center Box Office and receive a discounted ticket to the Dukes of Dixieland Concert – three sets of beads=$5 off ($18 ticket) and one or two sets of beads=$2 off ($18 ticket).

The Dukes of Dixieland blow traditional jazz and Dixieland into the 21st Century, weaving strands of pop, gospel, and country with authentic New Orleans sounds.  They have maintained their preeminent position in their art for four decades and are the oldest continually-performing jazz ensemble in New Orleans . From the original group founded in 1949 by the Assunto brothers to the current musicians who keep the sound alive and growing, the Dukes have kept their determination to bring their audiences the very heart and soul of New Orleans- authentic Dixieland jazz.  Until recently, the Dukes made their home on the Steamboat Natchez, playing for nightly cruises on the river when not in concert on the road.

Bruce Brice has become one of New Orleans ' most respected folk artists and has worldwide exposure. His works encompass a wide range of cultural, folk art including many limited edition prints.  Transcending to finer details and use of bright colors, Brice captures many festive events through his many unique works of art.   From Mardi Gras to Jazz Festival, from second lining to Mardi Gras Indian's, Brice's art portrays celebration.  In addition, Bruce Brice was the first commissioned artist to present the official poster for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. 

Tickets for the Dukes of Dixieland can be purchased at the Herb Young Community Center or online at www.ticketmaster.com or charge-by-phone, (919) 834-4000 (Ticketmaster convenience fees will apply for online and charge-by-phone orders).

Both the performance and the art exhibit are part of the Town’s existing special event programs.  The Dukes of Dixieland concert is the third performance in this year’s Marvelous Music Series – an annual series that draws national performing artists to the area.  Brice’s exhibit is part of the Cary Art Loop that showcases the talents of local artists culminating in a public celebration on the final Fridays of each month.

For more, visit www.caryartloop.org, www.brucebrice.com, www.producersinc.com, or concerts at www.townofcary.org, or call (919) 469-4061.  

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