OffBeat Weekly Picks ( July 18 – July 24)

It’s another music-packed week in New Orleans with tons of live music and cultural events to keep you entertained! Check out our OffBeat Weekly Picks ( July 18 – July 24).

Starting Thursday, July 18, The Tennessee Williams Theatre Company brings the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “A Streetcar Named Desire” by Tennessee Williams to the Marigny Opera House. The show will run until August 4. The production takes audiences on a journey through Blanche’s odyssey from her ancestral Mississippi Delta mansion into the depths of the French Quarter, fraught with steamy sensuality and intense drama. You can learn more or purchase tickets at www.twtheatrenola.com.

On Friday, July 19, at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Dr. Michael White‘s Original Liberty Jazz Band plays Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro. Dr. Michael White is a distinguished jazz clarinetist, bandleader, composer and educator known for his dedication to preserving traditional New Orleans jazz. A native of the city, his work includes collaborations with prominent musicians, a series of acclaimed albums, and numerous appearances at major jazz festivals worldwide. Tickets are priced at $35. For more details, visit the Snug Harbor website here.

Honey Island Swamp Band, Best of the Beat, OffBeat Magazine, Photo by Kim Welsh

Photo by Kim Welsh

Tipitina’s Free Fridays Series continues on July 19 with performances by the Honey Island Swamp Band and Renée Gros & Tiago Guy. The Honey Island Swamp Band blends rock, blues, soul and Americana to create their distinctive sound. They have garnered a loyal following and critical acclaim for their ability to seamlessly merge traditional roots music with contemporary influences. The event, which starts at 8 p.m., is free to the public. For more info about the summer series, visit the Tipitina’s website here.

Also on Friday, celebrate the 84th birthday of blues legend Little Freddie King at BJ’s Lounge at 9 p.m. A beloved icon of the New Orleans blues scene, Little Freddie King has been captivating audiences for decades with his raw, authentic sound and magnetic stage presence. Born in Mississippi and influenced by the Delta blues tradition, King brought his unique style to New Orleans, where he has become a local legend. Known for his soulful guitar playing and gritty vocals, he delivers powerful performances.  Tickets are available at the door for only $10, and there will be cake to celebrate this special occasion.

On Saturday, July 20, from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. ColombiaNola Fest comes to The Broadside. ColombiaNola Fest is a celebration of Colombian culture, bringing together the best of Colombian music and dance with performances by Brayan Caceres, Los Cumbia Stars, and Rumba Buena.  Enjoy Columbian rhythms and melodies of salsa, Vallenato, champeta and more. Tickets start at only $38.00. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.

On Sunday, July 21, at 7 p.m. The Joe Krown Trio, along with Papa Mali, Casandra Faulconer and Wayne Maureau, will be performing at the Maple Leaf Bar. Krown is known for his soulful playing style that effortlessly blends blues, jazz and funk influences. Papa Mali’s music reflects a deep connection to the roots of American music, incorporating elements of delta blues and southern rock into his sound. Their dynamic performances and collaborative spirit have earned them a dedicated following, cementing their reputations as versatile and influential figures in contemporary music. Tickets range from $15 to $20. For more details, visit the Maple Leaf Bar website here.

Weekly Picks ( July 18 – July 24)