Let’s Dance
“Circle Dance,” a 40-year retrospective of the work of local contemporary artist John T. Scott, will feature 187 works in a range of media. The exhibit will run from May 7 through July 10 at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Scott says he draws on African, Caribbean and local traditions for his vibrantly colored pieces. “Circle Dance” exemplifies the evolution of Scott’s artwork through the years. Information, 488-2631.
An Art Affair
The 19th annual International Arts Festival, held June 8-12, is one of the oldest music festivals in New Orleans. Held at Marconi Meadows in City Park, it showcases an array of cultures and musical styles. The Pavilion of Global Music brings those cultures to life through music. Don’t miss the folk art on display in the Gallery of Expression. Information, 367-3632.
Eat Your Vegetables
Writer Anne Galjour takes a traditional Louisiana vegetable and turns it into a pot of gumbo – and a bit of drama. “Okra” will run from May 11 through June 5 at Southern Rep Theater. This dark comedy set in French-speaking Louisiana features the Bourgeois family, who prepare to welcome a French family member they have never met. Will all the ingredients mix well to make a savory gumbo or will the family have to throw the roux away? Information, 522-6545.
Party Animals
The 28th annual Bank One Zoo-To-Do on May 6 is appropriately themed “Fireflies and Black Ties,” exploring the world of insects and honoring the future Audubon Insectarium. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will keep the party hopping as the live entertainment, and local restaurants will provide culinary temptations and spirits. Proceeds benefit the Audubon Zoo and help keep it one of the top zoos in the country. Information, 861-6160.
Let’s Talk
Sit in for the ninth season of ArtSpeak at the Contemporary Arts Center on May 11. The monthly series features Louisiana artists, and May’s panel includes Douglas Bourgeois, Robert Warrens and Jacqueline Bishop, with Ron Bechet as moderator. Information, 528-3805.
Chic to be Greek
You haven’t got a party until you have a plate of Greek delicacies. And what better place to sample them than the 32nd annual Greek Fest on May 27-29? The festival, held at the Hellenic Cultural Center, features a wide array of events, including a run/walk and Hellenic dancing. Information, 282-0259.
Jazz on film
During the late 1940s, Herman Leonard developed friendships with jazz legends while he photographed them. After living of various countries around the world, Leonard now resides in New Orleans, and the city and its habitants are often subjects in his work. Through July 24, “Passport: Classic and Unknown Photographs by Herman Leonard” will be on display at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, including some never-before-seen photographs. Information, 539-9613.
