671. Kayla Hardy

671. On this episode of the Louisiana Anthology Podcast, we are joined by Kayla Hardy to discuss her new novel, Quarter Queen. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century New Orleans, the story follows a young woman’s journey through the mystique and social complexities of the French Quarter. Kayla shares how she blended historical research with rich storytelling to capture the spirit of an era where power and tradition often collided. We dive into the inspirations behind her protagonist and what it means to reclaim a seat at the table in a city defined by its secrets. She earned a doctorate in English, specializing in creative writing and African American literature, from Binghamton University at age twenty-six. Dr. Hardy served as an adjunct professor at Binghamton University and is an avid scholar and lover of Black folklore, mythology, and Voodoo. Inspired by her Louisiana Creole ancestry and familial lineage of rootwork and magic, Kayla aims to tell diverse-driven horror and dark fantasy stories.

1. Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 222 years. Order your copy today!
2. This week in the Louisiana Anthology. Traditional. 'Cotton-Eyed Joe.'
        "Cotton-eyed Joe, Cotton-eyed Joe,
   What did make you sarve me so,
   Fur ter take my gal erway fum me,
   An' cyar her plum ter Tennessee?
   Ef it hadn't ben fur Cotton-eyed Joe,
   I'd er been married long ergo.
        "His eyes wuz crossed, an' his nose wuz flat,
   An' his teef wuz out, but wat uv dat?
   Fur he wuz tall, an' he wuz slim,
   An' so my gal she follered him.
   Ef it hadn't ben fur Cotton-eyed Joe,
   I'd er been married long ergo.
   
3. This week in Louisiana history. March 27, 1934. Rev. Gerald Smith addressed citizens in Sulphur's "Share Our Wealth Club." 
4. This week in New Orleans history. March 27, 2020: New Orleans was identified as having the highest COVID-19 growth rate in the world, turning the city into a critical warning site for the global pandemic.
5. This week in Louisiana.
   April 3-5, 2025
   Louisiana Lao New Year Celebration (Pi Mai Lao).
   7913 Champa Ave.
   Lanexang Village
   Broussard, LA 70518
   Hours: Three-day festival (Friday-Sunday of Easter weekend)
   Website: explorelouisiana.com
   Email: louisianalaonewyear@gmail.com
   Phone: (337) 378-9469
   Experience one of the most unique cultural festivals in Acadiana, celebrating Southeast Asian traditions:
   
   • Lao Traditions: The festival features traditional sand castle building, vibrant parades, and a beauty pageant.
   • Culinary Delights: Numerous vendors offer authentic clothes, jewelry, and a wide array of food from Southeast Asia.
   • VIP Experience: All-access passes are available that include reserved parking, guided tours, and access to the Tea-time performance banquet.
     Admission & Pricing
   • Admission & Pricing
     General Admission (Before 5:00 PM): Free.
     Evening Admission (After 5:00 PM): $15.00 per person (covers access to the evening concerts and the dance floor).
     VIP All-Access Pass: $50.00. This includes reserved parking next to the temple, food, a guided tour, and access to the VIP parade lounge and performance banquet.
     Parking: Public parking and shuttles are typically free, but limited; arriving early is highly recommended.
     
6. Postcards from Louisiana. Rug Cutters at Favela Chic.

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