Monday, 9 May, 2011 9:34
by Sarah Madalyn McKinney
There is just nothing like relaxing outside in the balmy spring weather with a little jazz and blues music serenading you after a long work week. That’s exactly what I was thinking last Thursday night as I enjoyed, for the first time, Hot Jazz on the Red at the Barnwell Garden and Arts Center. A.J. and the Two Tones Blues Band provided entertainment for the 6 p.m., May 5 event, and this Thursday, May 12, Musicology will be the featured band.
The atmosphere was impeccable as I scanned the area tucked between the Red River and the art gallery and gardens for the perfect spot to people watch while admiring Shreveport-Bossier’s gorgeous riverfront. This weekly event is the perfect place to have an evening picnic with a significant other or friends. What I didn’t expect that pleasantly surprised me was the amount of networking. It’s a great time and place to mingle with business peers outside of the office walls.
As I sat facing the river with the music and wind at my back all I could think was, “There is no other place I would rather be.” As I attempted to take pictures of my experience I found it frustrating, because no picture I took captured the essence of that evening. It’s something you just have to go and see for yourself.
If you do want to see what Hot Jazz on the Red is all about here are some things that will make your experience even more enjoyable.
• Plan a Picnic - bring your favorite beverage and food and make it a date!
• Get Comfortable - dress down and bring lawn chairs or a blanket
• Enjoy Our City- Riverview Park provides riverfront and skyline views of our city like no place else
I absolutely cannot wait to go to Hot Jazz on the Red again! Once you go, you’ll wish this event would last all year round. But for now, check out this cool event every Thursday in May and June. For a complete list of upcoming bands click here.
