200. Kim Vaz Deville. The Baby Dolls

200. We interview Kim Vaz Deville, author of The "Baby Dolls": Breaking the Race and Gender Barriers of the New Orleans Mardi Gras Tradition. One of the first women’s organizations to mask and perform during Mardi Gras, the Million Dollar Baby Dolls redefined the New Orleans carnival tradition. Tracing their origins from Storyville-era brothels and dance halls to their re-emergence in post-Katrina New Orleans, author Kim Marie Vaz uncovers the fascinating history of the “raddy-walking, shake-dancing, cigar-smoking, money-flinging” ladies who strutted their way into a predominantly male establishment.

1. This week in Louisiana history. March 20, 1839. Shreveport become a "city" on the northern end of the Red River.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Clarence "Frogman" Henry, was born March 19, 1937 in Algiers. His trademark croak, utilized to the maximum on his 1956 debut hit "Ain't Got No Home," earned Henry his nickname and jump-started a career that endures to this day. "(I Don't Know Why) But I Do" and "You Always Hurt the One You Love", both from 1961, were also top-selling records.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Dave Robicheaux's Hometown Literary Festival
   March 31st, 2017 - April 2nd, 2017
   New Iberia-information at Shadows-on-the-Teche
   317 E. Main St,
   New Iberia, LA 70560
   337-369-6446
   Website
   New Iberia.  Information at Shadows-on-the-Teche
   Literary festival honoring Iberia authors as well as others from around the world. Focused on James Lee Burke's legendary literary character, Dave Robicheaux, and his hometown. There will be events throughout the festival at various venues celebrating literature and its impact on our culture as a parish. Events include storytelling, workshops, academic symposium, theatrical vignettes, music, local cuisine, Dave Robicheaux tours and a 5K run.

Listen in iTunes.

Listen in Stitcher.

Listen on Google Play.

The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.

Like us on Facebook.