Chocolate Kitty II
– Party in the City
On Friday, Feb. 16th, there will be a truly unique party at the Dragon’s Den. In full Mardi Gras spirit, guests are invited – until 4 a.m. – to join premier underground female turntablists and DJs, including DJs: Soul Sister, Beverly Skillz, Bomshell Boogie, Robyn Steel, Lady Fingaz and Beatgrrl. The party, titled “Chocolate Kitty” – in reference to Ray Nagin’s infamous faux pas – is in its second year, continuing its 
mission to increase recognition and awareness of women in the underground hip hop and funk DJ scene – a male-dominated industry. It’s also intended to empower women and spin a good time for everyone.
Information, 491-6626 or visit www.djsoulsister.com.
A Bright Play
Bright Ideas, a play written by Eric Coble, will be performed at Loyola University’s Lower Depths Theatre on Feb. 8, 9, 10, 12, and 13 at 8 p.m. and on Feb. 11 at 2 p.m. Under the direction of Benjamin Clement, this satire pokes fun at overbearing, competitive parents who desperately attempt to get a young child into the “perfect” pre-school. Bright Ideas is filled with dark humor and abundant wit – including references to Shakespeare’s Macbeth – and actors will include the talented students in the Fine Arts department of the university. Group rates are available and discounts are offered for senior citizens, students and children. Information, 865-3824.
Dave Eggers Takes Center Stage
It’s difficult to categorize Dave Eggers; luckily, this author/publisher/educator will be speaking to locals as part of New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) – Riverfront’s “Center Stage” program. On Tues., Feb. 6, Eggers will read some of his favorite works from his collection of short stories, and from his novel, What is the What. The event will take place at Freda Lupin Memorial Hall at NOCCA Riverfront. Information, 940-2900.
Fleur De Tease
Fleur de Tease, a recently established burlesque show, puts a modern twist on the classic vaudeville act. Circus acts, comedy, singing and even magic tricks make the show worth seeing. True professionals, they have performed all over the country and in Europe.
Performances are held twice every Sunday at One Eyed Jack’s in the French Quarter – at 8 & 10 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door. Information, www.fleurdetease.com.
Tango for a week
That old phrase, “It takes two to tango” is taking on a whole new meaning this Valentine’s day. Local tango instructor Ector Gutierrez will teach tango, with assistance from local photographer Kerri McCaffety, but these dance lessons won’t be held in a typical studio; the location is aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise. The cruise ship, Grandeur of the Seas, will sail out of New Orleans Feb. 10-17, traveling to exotic locales including George Town, Grand Cayman; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Cozumel, Mexico. Information, www.ectortango.com.
Wagging tails and throwing beads
Your best friend, as in “man’s best friend,” can celebrate the Carnival season, too. The 15th annual Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade, filled with dogs and their human companions, will march with wagging tails through the streets of the French Quarter with the post-storm theme “A Street Dog Named Desire” on Sun., Feb. 11.
Also, on Feb. 9, the “Barkin’ Up the Ritz” Ball will be held at the Windsor Court Hotel. Tickets will be available on-line. The ball is a human-only event, though the king and queen of Barkus will make a special appearance. Volunteers are also needed throughout the duration of the parade. Information, www.barkus.org or e-mail: info@barkus.org.
