In a performance by The New Zulu Mardi Gras Indians, Houstonians will have a rare opportunity to experience the unique rhythms, chants and elaborate costumes on New Orleans' Black Indians during Martin Luther King weekend.

Mardi Gras Indian traditions combine African pictorials with Native American stylized carnival costumes. The multilayered "Indian Suits", decorated with beads, sequins and exotic feathers, can weigh more than 100 pounds. The suits are worn in parades during Mardi Gras and Super Sunday (near St Joseph's Day, March 19).

Their percussion, derived from Africa and the West Indies, was passed down to modern generations through gatherings at New Orleans' historic Congo Square. Mardi Gras Indian chants are a mysterious language rooted in the history of slavery and oppression.

Join us for two unique opportunities to discover the Mardi Gras Indians right here in Houston. The events are part of a Houston Institute for Culture educational series on African American Traditions, Connections and Migrations, supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, Texas Commission on the Arts and Houston Arts Alliance. The programs are sponsored by KPFT's Music Beyond Borders, Voz de la Tierra, and KTRU's World Music Show, and graciously hosted by The Artery and Bohemeo's.

Above photo of New Orleans' Mardi Gras Indian by Mark Lacy. Additional documentary images by Ben DeSoto and Mark Lacy will be displayed. Learn more about Mardi Gras Indian traditions, Legacy of Defiance, here: http://www.houstonculture.org/laproject/indians.html

When and Where

Saturday, January 19, 2008
7:00pm performance, followed by reception

The Artery
5401 Jackson St. (at Prospect)
Houston, Texas 77004
In the Museum District
Donation: $10; $5 students

Sunday, January 20, 2008
5:00pm performance, followed by reception

Bohemeo's
708 Telephone Rd.
Houston, Texas 77023
In the East End, Tlaquepaque Plaza
Donation: $10; $5 students

For More Information

Phone: 713-521-3686
Email: