NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The Historic BK House & Gardens is pleased to announce a fun-filled month of activities, beginning with the final Rhythm N’ Roses Concert Marty Peters & the Party Meters on Thursday, May 4, from 6-9 p.m. in the adjacent Parterre Garden on Ursuline. Participants are invited to move around the garden during the cocktail-inspired musical showcase or be seated in the adjacent space next to the historic house. Light refreshments are included in the $25 ticket which should be pre-purchased at www.bkhouse.org. Tickets based on availability for what may be a sold-out event. Generously presented by James Douglas Hislop to benefit the historical French Quarter treasure.
In celebration of GiveNOLA Day, BK House will be the setting for a free garden party featuring renowned musician Ashley Orlando. Come enjoy music and beverages on Tuesday, May 2 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This event takes place in collaboration with the Nous Foundation.
Saturdays in May will feature Watercolor Classes with Diego Larguia on May 6 and 20 and again on June 3. The three-hour classes are small and will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The workshops are open to all skill levels allowing students to receive personal instruction in a friendly, positive environment for those who are just getting started.
Students will work on a completely new painting each day, building on their skills as they go. Topics will cover materials, drawing, perspective, tonal value, composition, techniques, and color. Students are encouraged to participate in the complete series to gain a full hands-on experience; however, individual classes can be attended as well.
Pre-registration is required at www.bkhouse.org. All three classes are $90 for museum members and $120 for general registration. Each individual class can be attended for $35 each for museum members and $45 each for general registration. The registration fee does not include materials. Students will receive a supply list after registering with items necessary for the course. These supplies will last for all class sessions.
On Sunday, May 14, at 2 p.m., BK House will present a special Mother’s Day treat with acclaimed artist, host and gardener, Cathy Graham, discussing her book, Full Bloom. With her uniquely whimsical style and artful touch, Graham creates a variety of colorful designs for the table, home, and party. Brilliant bouquets are paired with Graham’s own watercolor artwork, and easy-to-follow step-by-step guides to creating delightful table settings and floral designs will inspire readers in designing their own creations. Doors will open at 1:30 pm prior to the 2 pm program where Full Bloom will be available for purchase. Visit www.bkhouse.org for tickets. This event is free for museum members and $10 for general registration.
Also in May, The Historic BK House & Gardens will premiere a new event, Dining by Design, on Sunday, May 21, at 5:30 p.m. A dozen or more designers and luminaries such as Gayle Benson, Andrew Lamar Hopkins, Patricia Brinson, Virginia Dunn and Lisa Brooking, Stephen Sonnier, and others will provide settings and décor reflecting their own styles and creativity on individual tables spread throughout the historic property. Guests will be served a four-course meal, provided by Palate and inspired by Francis Parkinson-Keyes’ cookbook, complemented by wines. Before dinner, hors d’oeuvres and champagne will be featured in the elegant Courtyard, along with a brief concert by Co-Chairs Michael Harold and Quinn Pepper. Guests will gather after the meal for dessert, coffee and more bubbly in the Courtyard. Limited tickets will be offered for purchase at $250 each. Funds raised will support the development of a furnishings and restoration fund for the historic property.
Preceding the dinner, a Dining by Design Preview from 1-4 p.m. will provide a special viewing of table scapes, giving the public an opportunity to peek at the fabulous designs. More information and a ticketing link will be available at bkhouse.org/diningbydesign. Tickets will be $20 per person; beverages will be provided.
Summer will feature week-long arKIDtecture Camps for children ages 8-13 in June and July where campers will explore the past and present-day architecture of New Orleans through a variety of fun and engaging, hands-on activities that include games, art, building, and more. Camp will take place in The Historic BK House & Gardens, a home that was built almost 200 years ago and serves as an architectural marvel of the 19th century. While learning about the master craftsmen responsible for building this house and others, campers will participate in live demonstrations and take numerous field trips around the French Quarter. Tuition is $225 for museum members and $275 for general registration. Add-ons for before and after care are available. Register via https://www.bkhouse.org/summer-camp.
Details about upcoming BK House events and membership information are available at www.bkhouse.org for those who want to support the Museum and take advantage of future programming discounts.
