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On Friday, March 5, The Louisiana State Museum Foundation held their annual gala to fête The Ponderosa Stomp Foundation. Gathered in the courtyard of the Cabildo were 200 guests for the patron party, followed by 400 partygoers in Jackson Square for the main event. Guests were dressed in everything from formal to cocktail to rock ‘n’ roll attire, as the gala also celebrated the 60th anniversary of Fats Domino’s hit “The Fat Man,” the first true rock ‘n’ roll song, along with its producer Dave Bartholomew and studio owner Cosimo Matassa. Jay Chevalier, the official music ambassador of Louisiana, played rock ‘n’ roll with local flavor at the patron party, while Lil’ Buck Sinegal and the Topcats entertained the guests in Jackson Square. Patrons sipped on delicious Ramos Gin Fizzes, courtesy of Bombay Gin, and noshed on delights from some of New Orleans’ premier culinary hotspots. Mitch Landrieu and Jackie Clarkson presented proclamations honoring Cosimo Matassa and Dave Bartholomew to Mr. Bartholomew. Dr. John was also in attendance, hobnobbing with guests and other music industry bigwigs including Frogman Henry, Wardell Quezegue, Jack Hopke of WWNO and Missy Bowen of WWOZ. Proceeds benefited the Museum Foundation, which is currently exhibiting “The Secret History of Louisiana Rock ‘n’ Roll” at the Louisiana State Museum.
