A&E

La. dancehalls take center stage

by Walter Pierce

The Backyard Series, free and open to the public, presents a look back at the history of dancehalls Tuesday at Vermilionville.

After a long week's work, Saturday nights were special in the small towns in South Louisiana and the dancehall was - and still is in some places - where good fun could be had.

The Backyard Series, free and open to the public, presents a look back at the history of dancehalls Tuesday at Vermilionville.

The Patin family of Breaux Bridge will talk about their family-owned dancehall, La Poussière; and Eugene Manuel will share stories of the several bars in Mamou (French Casino, the Holiday Lounge, Manuel's Bar and others) established by his father.

The public is encouraged to bring their own stories, pictures and other memorabilia of dancehalls.

Food and drinks are available for purchase. The Backyard Series is sponsored by CCET, with support from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, the Acadiana Center for the Arts and the Vermilionville Foundation. For more information click here or call (337) 482-1320.