 Announcing Percy "Master P" Miller as New Orleans Entertainment Ambassador
Mayor LaToya Cantrell, joined by State Representative Candace Newell, Councilman Eugene Green, Director of the Office of Cultural Economy Lisa Alexis, Director of the Office of Economic Development Jeff Schwartz, Interim Director of the Mayor's Office of Nighttime Economy Michael Ince, and other City leaders, proudly announced Percy “Master P” Miller as the City of New Orleans' new Entertainment Ambassador.
This press conference marked the launch of a promising collaboration aimed at enhancing entertainment and cultural opportunities while celebrating New Orleans' rich traditions. The initiative seeks to connect influential New Orleans natives, forming a diverse entertainment and cultural platform dedicated to creating content across various media, including film, television, music, culinary arts, design, literary arts, humanities, preservation, and visual arts.
A key component of this effort is the establishment of the "Hollywood South Collaborative," a master-class environment designed to mentor and teach essential entertainment business skills. The collaboration will also promote New Orleans as a prime destination for entertainment producers and managers, encouraging them to host concerts and special events in the city. Additionally, strategies will be implemented to support the growth of New Orleans' vibrant live festival marketplace, enabling event management companies to thrive.
Born and raised in New Orleans, Master P attended Booker T. Washington High School and Warren Easton Charter School. His determination and drive led him to become a successful businessman and music mogul. After studying Business Communications at the University of Houston, he moved to Richmond, CA, where he opened his first small business, No Limit Records, a record store that he later transformed into one of the most successful music labels in the industry. Master P’s success extends beyond music, with accomplishments in television, film, acting, producing, sports, clothing, and real estate.
As New Orleans' Entertainment Ambassador, Master P will leverage his expertise and influence to help propel the city's entertainment industry to new heights, fostering growth and development that will benefit the entire community.
OCE Visits Film Set of Native Filmmaker Gerard McMurray's "Goons"
The Mayor's Office of Cultural Economy (OCE) was recently invited to visit the set of the feature film Goons, directed by New Orleans native Gerard McMurray, on the final day of shooting.
Gerard McMurray, a proud native of the 7th Ward, is an accomplished filmmaker with an impressive background. A graduate of Howard University and the USC School of Cinematic Arts' MFA program, McMurray quickly made his mark in the industry. Shortly after graduating, he collaborated with Ryan Coogler, Michael B. Jordan, and Forest Whitaker as a producer on the acclaimed indie film Fruitvale Station, which won both the Audience Award and the Grand Jury Prize at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival.
McMurray's directorial debut, Burning Sands, a Netflix Original produced by Stephanie Alain, Reginald Hudlin, and Jason Berman, premiered to critical acclaim at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. His next film, The First Purge, produced by Oscar-nominated Jason Blum and starring Oscar-winner Marisa Tomei, was released by Universal Pictures in 2018. It became the highest-grossing installment of the popular franchise, establishing McMurray as a force in Hollywood.
Since then, McMurray has continued to build an impressive portfolio, directing The Twilight Zone: Replay for Oscar-winner Jordan Peele and working on several high-profile projects. He is currently writing and directing The Silver Bear, an action franchise for Lionsgate starring Michael B. Jordan, and co-writing and directing Booker with John Wick creator Derek Kolstad for Sony Pictures. Additionally, he is directing and executive producing a series adaptation of The Spook Who Sat by the Door with Lee Daniels for FX.
With a strong commitment to his hometown, Gerard McMurray continues to bring his creative vision back to New Orleans. We look forward to seeing his next project, created right here in the city that shaped him.
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Super Bowl LIX Host Committee Announces Community Champions
The New Orleans Super Bowl LIX Host Committee has named its Community Champions, featuring a lineup of local heroes and sports figures. The team includes analyst and sideline reporter Jen Hale, New Orleans Saints defensive end Cam Jordan, linebacker Demario Davis, and safety Tyrann Mathieu.
On Tuesday, the newly appointed Community Champions discussed their roles with the Host Committee, expressing their enthusiasm for the initiative. As Community Champions, they will help spread messages of positivity and engage in volunteer efforts through the Host Committee Ambassador Program leading up to the big game, scheduled for February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome.
Jen Hale and Tyrann Mathieu, both born in New Orleans, along with Cam Jordan and Demario Davis, who are deeply ingrained in the local community, are excited to contribute to this initiative. The Super Bowl LIX Community Champions. will continue to work closely with the community, ensuring that the event is a meaningful celebration for all of New Orleans.
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2024 Curtain Call Ball
Le Petit Theatre will kick off our 108th season with our annual Curtain Call Ball on Friday, Sept. 6, at 6:30 p.m. at Le Petit Theatre and Tableau restaurant. We hope you will join us for the party that St. Charles Avenue Magazine calls “the most entertaining gala of the year.”
The evening will begin with cocktails and cuisine at Tableau before moving into our historic playhouse for live performances of your favorite Broadway tunes! This year’s gala will have a musical performance by Tony nominee Betsy Wolfe. Silent and live auctions will offer art, jewelry, and experiences with Mark Romig as our emcee and auctioneer.
All funds raised from the Curtain Call Ball provide vital support for Le Petit Theatre’s mission to present the highest quality theatrical performances to entertain and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the vitality of the arts community.
For more information, visit: lepetittheatre.com.
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New Orleans Tattoo Arts Festival
Tattoo collectors, the event you've been waiting for is here! Villain Arts returns for the Sixth Annual New Orleans Tattoo Arts Festival at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center from Sept. 6 – 8. Over the course of three exciting days, attendees can experience tattoos, vendors, entertainment, and much more. Hundreds of tattoo artists from across the country—and a few from around the world—will be present, showcasing a variety of styles. Notable artists include Gary Parisi (Ink Master Season 10), James Vaughn (Ink Master Seasons 1 & 7), and Charles Whitfield (VH1).
Tattoo competitions offer the perfect opportunity to show off your new or existing ink, but even if tattoos aren’t your thing, there's plenty to enjoy. Shop from a wide range of vendors offering clothing, art, jewelry, and more, or be entertained by burlesque sideshow acts, magic, human suspension, and sword swallowing. Whether you're covered in ink or looking to get your first tattoo, this festival has something for everyone! Join the fun and get some new ink at the Sixth Annual New Orleans Tattoo Arts Festival.
For more information, visit: villainarts.com.
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2024 Saints Kickoff Run
The 2024 Saints Kickoff Run, presented by Hancock Whitney, will take place live and in person on Sept. 7, at 7:30 a.m. The race will begin in Champions Square and conclude on the 50-yard line of the Caesars Superdome. After the race, participants can enjoy a post-race party in Champions Square featuring live entertainment and a beer garden. All runners will receive an official "Saints 5K" participant shirt and a finisher's medal.
For those unable to attend in person, virtual participation is available, allowing runners to complete the race at their own pace and still receive all the race swag.
For more information, visit: saints5k.com.
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First Saturday Art Walk
On the first Saturday of each month, Magazine Street comes alive with Art Walk, where galleries along the street open their doors from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., featuring artist openings, refreshments, and more. Upcoming 2024 dates include Sept. 7 and Nov. 2, with 2025 dates set for Jan. 4, Feb. 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, Aug. 2, Sept. 6, and Nov. 1. This event is presented in partnership with The Scout Guide New Orleans.
For more information, visit: magazinestreet.com.
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Fall Opening Day
The Music Box Village is a whimsical art installation where play, imagination, experimentation, and collaboration come to life through artist-made interactive "musical houses." Each structure reflects the rich musical and architectural culture of New Orleans and represents a collaborative effort between local and international artists. This one-of-a-kind art site hosts artist residencies, performances, and panels, and invites visitors to explore and engage with the installations.
As the flagship project of New Orleans Airlift, an artist-driven non-profit, the Music Box Village embodies the organization's mission to inspire wonder, connect communities, and foster opportunities through arts education and experimental public art. Join the celebration of its Fall Opening Day on Sept. 7, from 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit: tixr.com.
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Recording Academy Songwriters & Composers Wing Town Hall
Join the Recording Academy Monday, Sept. 9 as they dive deep into the current landscape of the craft of songwriting and explore the evolving trends, emerging opportunities, and potential challenges that lie ahead.
Hear from industry leaders who will share their insights on what's shaping the future of songwriting and tackle pressing issues like digital streaming royalties, artificial intelligence (AI), songwriting and publishing contracts, and more
For more information or to join, click here.
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Digital Marketing Webinar Series
Shine online with skills you gain at the Office of Economic Development’s September 2024 Digital Marketing Webinar Series.
This three-part virtual series will teach you tricks from top City professionals on how to guide branding, establish best practices, and grow your business online.
Webinar meetings will take place virtually every Tuesday from Sept. 10 – 24 at 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
For more information or to register, visit: nola.gov.
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Emergency Preparedness Webinars
The Performing Arts Readiness (PAR) project is offering the free emergency preparedness webinars listed below that are tailored to the needs of performing arts organizations during September-December:
Introduction to Emergency Preparedness for Performing Arts Organizations, Sept. 10 at 2:00 ET
Description: Localized emergencies, regional disasters, and catastrophic events can have a devastating impact on performing arts organizations where even a brief loss of business can threaten sustainability. This free 90 minute webinar will provide an introduction to why emergency preparedness is critical to protect your organization from external risks and internal vulnerabilities. These include human caused and natural crises. You will learn the typical process and contents of a plan, and receive information about resources to help with planning.
This webinar is appropriate for attendees representing large and small performing arts organizations as well as those with and without their own performance facilities. Executive and management staff will find this webinar useful, as well as H.R., finance, communications, marketing, technical, and front-of-house staff.
Instructor: Steve Eberhardt
For more information, click here.
Workplace Violence Prevention for the Arts: Understanding Requirements of California's SB553 and Beyond, Sept. 11 at 1:00 ET
Description: On July 1, 2024, new Workplace Violence Prevention measures went into effect as part of California's SB 553 bill, requiring organizations with 10+ employees to create workplace violence prevention plans. While this law currently applies only to California, it provides a valuable framework for performing arts organizations nationwide to enhance safety and build resilience.
This webinar helps organizations understand and implement effective workplace violence prevention plans and features:
• 45-minute presentation by a CAL/OSHA expert covering:
- Conducting risk assessments
- Creating a Violence Prevention Plan
- Collaborative planning techniques
- Maintaining required records
• Q&A session addressing unique considerations for performing arts organizations, including managing contract workers, performers, volunteers, and audience relations.
Instructors: Carmen Cisneros, Matthew Ché Kowal, Julie Baker, and Julie Lavezzari
For more information, click here.
Introduction to Archival Programs for Performing Arts Institutions, Sept. 12 at 2:00 ET
Description: With many performing arts organizations operating for some time, legacy records have been created that can benefit not only staff but also the public. Join us for an introduction to what archival programs do and how they can help your organization. This class will be organized into two parts. First, participants will learn what practical actions they can take now with minimal resources and then learn about program components for consideration in the future. By the end of the class, participants will be able to:
- Learn what archives do and what archival work entails
- Understand what materials are considered historical
- Acquire skills in basic preservation and safe storage practices, including electronic materials
- Become aware of what is needed to develop archival programs over time
Instructor: Katy Klettlinger
For more information, click here.
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Book Blessing of "Passing It On: The Art of John T. Scott"
A special evening will be held to celebrate the launch and blessing of Passing It On: The Art of John T. Scott, a new book dedicated to the life and works of New Orleans-born artist John Scott. This event offers an opportunity to honor the legacy of a visionary who dedicated his life to celebrating the African diaspora through his art. Attendees will have the chance to connect with others who share a passion for art and culture while paying tribute to John Scott’s lasting impact on the community.
Passing It On: The Art of John T. Scott is a captivating book co-authored by Freddi Williams Evans and Scott’s widow, Anna Rita Scott, produced by The Helis Foundation John Scott Center, an initiative of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. This vibrant, 100-plus-page hardcover volume showcases Scott’s groundbreaking artwork and celebrated career. Known for his work as a sculptor, painter, and printmaker, Scott captured the essence of New Orleans and Afro-Caribbean culture in his art, which can still be found throughout the city and beyond. The event will take place on Sept. 12, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
For more information or to reserve a spot, click here.
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Learning Before Lunch: Unlocking Music’s Healing Potential
The September Learning Before Lunch session, titled Unlocking Music’s Healing Potential, will feature Cathy Anderson, a seasoned harpist and expert in music therapy. Anderson will explore the science and research behind music therapy, demonstrating how live music can enhance well-being, reduce stress, and uplift the spirit. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the positive impact of music on health and happiness. The event will take place in person at the UNO Alumni Center and will also be available via Zoom on Sept.12, at 9:45 a.m.
For more information, visit: learningbeforelunch.com.
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Sip & Social at Second Harvest Food Bank
New Orleans Magazine invites professionals to an evening at Second Harvest Food Bank on Thursday, Sept. 12, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Attendees will enjoy hors d'oeuvres, complimentary drinks, and live music by Root Studio Academy, while networking with fellow professionals from around the city. All guests will be entered into a drawing to win two Gretna Fest passes, valued at $450.
Second Harvest Food Bank, the largest charitable anti-hunger network in South Louisiana, works to end hunger through food access, advocacy, education, and disaster response. A minimum ticket donation of $5 is required to attend, and additional donations to the food bank are encouraged to support this vital cause.
For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.
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Art Jam
KID smART is excited to host its 11th annual ART JAM on Sept. 14 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. outside of the Andre Cailloux Center for Performing Arts and Cultural Justice. This annual free family-friendly arts festival, presented by Ochsner and The Sunstone Project, is a community celebration of all things art, education and joy that features hands-on activities, live performances, arts-based workshops and more! ART JAM activities will be led by KID smART teaching artists as well as NOLA Artist Incubator, ArtCamp 504, NOLA Nature School, Community Book Shop, MESS Arts, Broadmoor Improvement and Le Petite Theatre. Children will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in workshops that range in topics from gardening, mask making and even creating one-of-a-kind clay creations.
For more information, visit: kidsmart.org.
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Free Family Day featuring Free Admission + Crafts + Community
On Sept. 14, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., the Ogden Museum of Southern Art will host a Free Family Day, offering complimentary admission for all visitors. Guests can explore the museum through a scavenger hunt with prizes and participate in art activities inspired by Louisiana Contemporary, presented by The Helis Foundation. The event will also feature family-friendly entertainment by GNO Suzuki Forum and Little Stompers, along with community partner tables, a food truck, and more fun activities for all ages.
For more information, visit: ogdenmuseum.org.
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Girls Play Trumpets Too: Fall Music Saturday Program 2024
The Fall Music Saturday Program will be held every Saturday, excluding the Thanksgiving holiday, from Sept. 21 to Dec. 21, at St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church (7100 St. Charles Ave.). The registration fee is $100, which includes a GPTT Specialty Breast Cancer Awareness T-Shirt and Trucker Hat. Financial assistance is available for those in need.
Girls Play Trumpets Too (GPTT) offers a comprehensive Fall Saturday music program designed for young girls, providing trumpet instruction, music theory classes, private lessons, and ensemble practice. Participants will also learn about the history of professional trumpet players, with an emphasis on influential women in the field. The program promotes leadership, discipline, teamwork, and confidence, creating a supportive environment where girls can thrive musically and socially, forming lasting friendships.
For more information, visit: girlsplaytrumpetstoo.org.
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Submissions Open for 2024-2025 Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge
The Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge, an initiative of the NEA in partnership with the National Alliance for Musical Theatre, is now accepting submissions for the 2024-25 program, an opportunity for high school students to develop and showcase musical compositions that could be a part of a musical theater production. Students will have access to the Writing is ReWriting Resource Center, workshops, and constructive critique opportunities to cultivate their songwriting skills throughout the submission window, which ends Jan. 31, 2025.
For more information, visit: arts.gov.
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