As we move into our “new normal” for the next few weeks, we’re going to highlight some of the best virtual happenings! Here’s what we’re looking forward to this week:
FRIDAY, APRIL 24
Liven Up Your Landscaping | 3 p.m. | Website | Free
Many of us are using our surplus of time to work on our yards and gardens. If you’re one of those people — or wish to be one of those people — check out this YLC-sponsored event led by Mullin Landscape.
No Pants Shakespeare | 7 p.m. | Announced via Facebook | Free
The Tennessee Williams Theatre Company of New Orleans is putting on a performance of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest live from the actors’ homes via a streaming platform. You’ll see the actors performing from their desks and there’ll be no question about their talent. Like everyone on a Zoom call these days, however, there will be the question of whether or not the actors are wearing pants. Shakespeare wouldn’t care and neither should you, so swing by this Facebook page at 6:45 p.m. for the link to the performance!
Mannie Fresh | 7 p.m. | Facebook | Free, but gift cards to support The Maison and its staff can be purchased here.
Famous local DJ, Mannie Fresh hosts a popular DJ set (more than 10,000 viewers!) called “Virus-Killaz” each Friday and Saturday night at 7 p.m. Check out his Facebook page for more information as the date gets closer.
Ellis Marsalis Tribute Night | 8 p.m. | Facebook | Free
Every week Snug Harbor has a tribute show to the recently departed New Orleans music legend, Ellis Marsalis, Jr. Swing by their Facebook page at approximately 8 p.m. and they’ll post the link to the show.
Freaky Fridays | 8 p.m. | Facebook | Free
James Corbyn is a ghost hunter, Voodoo practitioner, historian, storyteller and collector of haunted artifacts. Each Friday he hosts a Facebook Live about another haunted topic. This week’s discussion is about all things Tarot.
Big Freedia’s Friday Night Shakedown | 9 p.m. | Instagram and Facebook | Donated accepted for Big Freedia’s Touring Crew and GNOF’s Disaster Relief Fund
Bounce, shake and wiggle with Big Freedia every Friday night! It’s a great party.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B_F6DFBjdOS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
SATURDAY, APRIL 25
Fitness Fusion Class | 9:15 a.m. | ClassPass | First class is free
Like a gumbo pot, health and wellness company Footprints To Fitness created their master Fitness Fusion class to provide something for everyone… a true fusion of kickass workout with a whole lot of New Orleans culture. More than just a workout, it’s an experience! This class will be live streamed on Zoom. Register on their website to receive a custom link to join. FIRST CLASS FREE & registration is also available on ClassPass.
Join The Journey for an all levels, high intensity combo class led by founder and media personality April Dupre, that combines yoga, pilates, strength training, weight training, cardio, and barre ALL IN ONE CLASS!
Jazz Festing in Place | 11 a.m. | WWOZ 90.7 FM | Free
From 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. during all eight days Jazz Fest was scheduled, WWOZ will broadcast incredible archival festival performances including Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint, The Wild Magnolias and many more. There will also be interview segments and recipes from some of your favorite Jazz Fest food items.
Sixteen Years of One Book | Noon | Facebook | Free
Each year One Book One New Orleans encourages city residents to read the same book. 2020 marks the program’s 16th year. To celebrate, they’re co-hosting a live online reading from some of their favorite selections.
Band Together Online Benefit Concert | 3 p.m. | Website | Donations accepted here
Some of your favorite local musicians are banding together for a star-studded benefit concert. The lineup includes PJ Morton, Tank and the Bangas, Jon Cleary, Ivan Neville, Kermit Ruffins and many more!
Live Music from SideBar NOLA | 4 p.m. | Website | Donations accepted here
SideBar NOLA has live local music streaming for you seven nights a week (and oftentimes more than once per night). For a full listing of their performances, check out this page.
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SUNDAY, APRIL 26
Mannie Fresh | 4 p.m. | Facebook, IG Live and Twitch | Free, but gift cards to support The Maison and its staff can be purchased here.
Mannie Fresh is back for a special 90-minute Gospel Get Down set at 4 p.m. He’s playing gospel and inspirational music meant to lift your spirits during these trying times.
The NOLA Project Sunday Solo Series | 6 p.m. | Facebook | Free
Each week The NOLA Project will feature a cast member performing a solo reading of a short story or brief monologue.
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See? There’s tons going on! If you can afford it, please be sure to tip the band/performers/DJ/teachers/etc. Many of them are battling lost gigs as a result of the pandemic, and are working very hard to keep us entertained during the unique times.
Remember, send us an email if you have an event you’d like to be added for next week’s round-up!
WRITER MATT HAINES LIVES IN NEW ORLEANS. FOLLOW HIM FOR ALL THINGS GOING ON IN NOLA — DURING TIMES OF PANDEMIC AND OTHERWISE — AT MATTHAINESWRITES.COM, AND ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM AND TWITTER.
