Shreveport Regional Jazz Ensemble and Poetic X @ Caddo Common Park
Part of the weekly Thirsty Thursdays in Caddo Common Park!
The Shreveport Regional Jazz Ensemble (SRJE) and Caddo Parish Poet Laureate "Poetic X" are delighted to announce the return of "Big Band Jazz & Poetry," a captivating event taking place on June 22 at Caddo Common Park. This dynamic jazz extravaganza, featuring the remarkable talents of the SRJE and the profound spoken word artistry of Poetic X, promises an unforgettable evening of soulful melodies, infectious rhythms, and thought-provoking poetry.
Founded in 1980 under the leadership of the esteemed Mr. Louis C. Wells, Sr., the Shreveport Regional Jazz Ensemble has been at the forefront of preserving and promoting the artistry of jazz. Comprised of eighteen skilled musicians and two gifted vocalists, the SRJE is known for their exceptional talent and remarkable performances. These accomplished musicians, with a collective experience of over 350 years, have positively impacted countless students and audiences throughout the ARK-LA-TEX region.
In addition to the mesmerizing big band jazz performance by the SRJE, the evening will feature a Poetry and Spoken Word Art event with Caddo Parish Poet Laureate "Poetic X." Attendees can expect live performances, live painting, poetry on the spot, an art auction, and more. The event is part of the new Thirsty Thursdays series in Caddo Common Park, bringing live entertainment elements from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
"No life shall go without Poetry. So many questions to ask in a world with limited answers. Poetry has the ability to connect persons with spiritual forces needed to perceive intuitively," says Poetic X', Caddo Parish Poet Laureate.
"Big Band Jazz & Poetry" is made possible through the generous support of the Louisiana Project Grants, overseen by the Shreveport Regional Arts Council. This program empowers artists, nonprofit arts organizations, schools, and local government agencies to develop arts projects that address the unique needs of their communities. By cultivating innovative arts projects, this program aims to make a lasting impact in each region of the state.
"We are thrilled to present 'Big Band Jazz & Poetry' in the heart of Caddo Common Park," said Mr. Louis C. Wells, Sr., Founder and Director of the Shreveport Regional Jazz Ensemble. "Through this event, we seek to honor the rich history of jazz while ensuring its vibrant future. We are deeply grateful to the Shreveport Regional Arts Council for their invaluable support in making this performance possible."
Bring your blankets and chairs, and join us at Caddo Common Park on June 22 for an enchanting evening filled with the captivating sounds of big band jazz and the profound artistry of spoken word performances. Don't miss this unique fusion of music and poetry that celebrates the cultural richness of our community.