A MOMENT TO REMEMBER: A MESSAGE FROM THE VOODOO EXPERIENCE

DATE:   AUGUST 29, 2010

FROM:  MARCEE RONDAN/KRISTINE ASHTON-MAGNUSON

A MOMENT TO REMEMBER:

A MESSAGE FROM THE VOODOO EXPERIENCE

“Five years ago, New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region were slammed by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, endangering one of the greatest cities in the world.  Through the sheer spirit of the people of New Orleans and an inherent love of celebration, culture, music and food, people continue to band together to restore and rebuild their beloved city.  Just six weeks after New Orleans was evacuated in 2005, the VOODOO EXPERIENCE was the first major public celebration of everything the city stands for.  Held on the banks of the Mississippi River behind Audubon Zoo, it was an emotional day for everyone who attended.  MTV News described it as ‘so important…Voodoo has always served two purposes: First and foremost, it pays tribute to the city's diverse and deep musical culture…’

Since then, we as a city have experienced great highs from the Saints winning the Super Bowl to terrible lows of deplorable irresponsibility and failure with the BP Horizon explosion. Throughout it all the voices and instruments of New Orleans musicians have traveled the world as ambassadors representing the citizens that many have tried to forget. Today as we remember and honor, it gives us great pleasure to announce a special addition to the 2010 Voodoo line-up:  Dr. John will join the Voices of the Wetlands All Stars.  Stationed at his piano, Dr. John will accompany musicians and activists Tab Benoit, Cyril Neville, Waylon Thibodeaux, Big Chief Bourdreaux, John Vidacovich and Johnny Sansone.  It will be an extraordinary performance, a beautiful celebration and reminder that we must come together through the music to protect our home, resources and each other.”

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