Bars are closed again and the maximum size of group gatherings has been reduced, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had online while get those COVID cases back under control. Here are some of the events we’re most looking forward to in Virtual New Orleans this week:
MONDAY, JULY 27
Seven Days of Satch | All Week | Facebook Live, WWL-TV and WWOZ | Free
From the creators of Satchmo Summerfest, Seven Days of Satch is a multi-platform, virtual celebration that spans an entire week, starting on Monday, July 27 through Sunday, August 2. They’ve got thematic programming on WWOZ, Louis Armstrong-inspired cooking demos on WWL-TV, and a full weekend of original performances and Armstrong scholars like Ricky Riccardi broadcast on Facebook Live. You can find the full festival schedule here.
Online Adult Art Camp | 1 p.m. | Zoom (link sent after registering) | $150 (for five-day session)
Flex your creative and artistic muscles from the safety of your own home. This five-day adult program (Monday through Friday of this week) will provide an opportunity to develop your artistic skills and explore new areas of expression. Take a deep dive into works of art currently on exhibition in the Museum during daily live video interactions. Each lesson will incorporate conversation, skill building exercises, artistic exploration projects and a mindfulness practice. Learn more here.
Live Music from SideBar NOLA | Throughout the evening | Website | Donations encouraged
SideBar NOLA has live local music streaming for you seven nights a week (and oftentimes more than once per night). For a full listing of their performances, check out this page.
Live with Helen Gillet | 7 p.m. | YouTube, Instagram Live and Facebook Live | Donations encouraged via PayPal, Venmo or Bandcamp
Helen Gillet and her cello are one of the most popular acts in town. While the effects of this pandemic linger, you’re able to hear her every Monday from the comfort of your own couch. Tune in for her weekly set that alternates between light, beautiful and wild.
Robin Barnes Presents #SongBirdatHome | 7 p.m. | Instagram Live and Facebook Live | Donations encouraged
Join Robin Barnes, the Songbird of New Orleans and her husband Pat Casey every Monday night for a one-hour set as they bring a concert right from their living room to yours!
Zumba Live Stream | 7 p.m. | Zoom (link sent after registering) | Free
The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission has partnered with Footprints to Fitness to offer a free 60-minute zumba class on Zoom! The class is led by a dance instructor and is cardio-focused, but appropriate for all levels. Register here and you’ll receive a link to the Zoom class.
Wasted with Will | 8 p.m. | Link provided here at showtime | Tips encouraged ($10 recommended)
“Wasted with Will” is a rollicking mini-series in which well-seasoned aficionados of The Bard bring you scene-by-scene retellings of their favorite Shakespeare plays…all while heavily under the influence of their favorite behavioral enhancer. They’re describing it as “Drunk History meets the end of history!”
TUESDAY, JULY 28
Live FitNOLA Class – Senior Dance Fitness | 10 a.m. | Zoom | Free
The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission is leading virtual exercise classes every day of the week (often, both, in the evening and during the day). This Tuesday morning, the class is focused on a fitness for senior citizens, but classes throughout the week are all different. Check out a list of the full offerings here and here to find out when they’ll be leading classes in Zumba, pilates, yoga, fitness, line dancing, swing, hip hop and much more! To join in on Zoom, use the link above and enter the Meeting ID (334-196-3309) and Password (BeFitNOLA).
NOCHI Together | 5 p.m. | Zoom (link sent upon registration) | $5 – $20 donation
Twice a week, the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI) hosts a cooking class typically led by a local chef and focusing on a specific cuisine. This Tuesday, however, students of NOCHI will be leading viewers through a menu that includes pan-seared sheepshead fish, creamy polenta, roasted tomatoes, and apricot panna cotta. Once you register, you’ll receive an ingredient list and a recipe so you can prepare yourself to cook along with your chefs. Learn more here.
Level 1 – Absolute Beginner Adult Tap | 7 p.m. | Zoom (link will be sent upon registering) | 1 class for $15; 6 classes for $80; 12 classes for $150
If you’ve never taken a tap dance class, or have had less than six months of classes, this is the class for you. Absolute Beginner Tap is an introductory level tap class designed for adult students looking to enjoy an engaging rhythmic workout in a fun and positive environment! Each week you will receive a 45-minute live virtual dance class, as well as access to weekly supplemental practice videos. Check out the left side of this page for the full listing of adult classes offered by HEIDITAPS.
For the Culture with Caren Green | 7 p.m. | Facebook Live and Instagram Live | Tips encouraged
House of Blues has been hosting a twice-weekly series of New Orleans-based musicians, and this Tuesday they’re presenting songwriter and storyteller Caren Green for an hour-long set.
Clown Town TV Premier Party: Episode 17 | 8 p.m. | Facebook Live | Tips and donations accepted on PayPal and Venmo
Clown Town features a rotating cast of queer NOLA Clowns as well as special guests from afar! It’s a little bit sideshow, a little bit vaudeville and plenty of New Orleans charm! Tune in via the Facebook page for Episode 17 as well as to watch earlier episodes.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29
Art & Zen: Online Meditation Series | Noon | Zoom (link coming soon, check here) | Free, but a $5 donation is encouraged if you are able
Every Wednesday at noon, join the Ogden Museum for a live seated 30-minute mindfulness meditation inspired by a work of Southern art. This online meditation program is led by Ogden Educator and yoga and meditation instructor, Mikhayla Harrell! All experience levels welcome.
Pam Fessler in Conversation with Gwen Thompkins | 6 p.m. | Zoom (link sent after registering) | Free
Garden District Book Shop is hosting a conversation between Pam Fessler and Gwen Thompkins about Thompkins’ book, “Carville Cure: Leprosy, Stigma, and the Fight for Justice.” It’s the unknown story of the only leprosy colony in the continental United States, and the thousands of Americans who were exiled — hidden away with their “shameful” disease.
Leslie Cooper and Harry Mayronne with Doyle Cooper at Buffa’s | 6:30 p.m. | Website | Tips encouraged
Buffa’s Lounge has streamed a steady dose of live music from their backroom. Every Wednesday you can watch Leslie Cooper and Harry Mayronne performing great traditional jazz music with some surprises thrown in
Live FitNOLA Class — Zumba | 7 p.m. | Zoom | Free
The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission is leading virtual exercise classes every day of the week (often, both, in the evening and during the day). This Wednesday at 7 p.m., the class is focused on Zumba, but classes throughout the week are all different. Check out a list of the full offerings here and here to find out when they’ll be leading classes in pilates, yoga, fitness, line dancing, swing, hip hop and much more! To join in on Zoom, use the link above and enter the Meeting ID (334-196-3309) and Password (BeFitNOLA).
THURSDAY, JULY 30
Voices of New Orleans Youth: A Conversation on NOLA Education | Noon | YouTube and Facebook Live | Free
The Education Research Alliance for New Orleans invites you to join them for a virtual discussion of the findings from our first citywide survey of New Orleans students: “Voices of New Orleans Youth: What Do The City’s Young People Think About Their Schools and Communities?” The report, based on a survey of almost 4,000 students in 21 New Orleans schools, allows us to see how young people view their teachers, schools, and neighborhood experiences. Read the report here, and/or join this 90-minute panel discussion with some of the city’s top education leaders.
Virtual Happy Hour at Garden District Book Shop | 5 p.m. | Facebook Live | Free
Each week during the pandemic, the Garden District Book Shop has hosted a virtual happy hour featuring New Orleans authors and literary lovers. This week’s author is Trish Doller, who has written six young adult novels and is releasing her first adult novel, “Float Plan,” in March 2021. Swing by the virtual happy hour for great insight, conversation and the opportunity to have your questions answered!
Father Ron’s 20 Minute Virtual Concert | 5 p.m. | Facebook Live | Free
Father Ron and Friends plays a short, 20-minutes set every Thursday. Tune in for some great folk music centered around a different theme each week.
Ogden After Hours at Home | 6 p.m. | Zoom and Facebook Live | Tips encouraged
Ogden Museum presents Ogden After Hours at Home, featuring music by Southern musicians and DJs. This week, they’re paying tribute to the great Ellis Louis Marsalis, Jr.
New Orleans Renters Rights Chat | 6 p.m. | Facebook Live or Phone Call | Free
Every Thursday, the New Orleans Renters Rights Assembly is hosting a call to educate New Orleanians about what’s going on with rental and mortgage policies, as well as organizing to create a more equitable world. You can call 504-517-5470 to listen in (Meeting ID: 299411967), or watch the livestream on Facebook (link above). There’ll also be opportunities to ask questions.
Fitness Fusion Class | 6:30 p.m. | Zoom link will be provided once you register | Register here and first class is free
Like a gumbo pot, health and wellness company Footprints To Fitness created their master Fitness Fusion class to provide something for everyone… a true fusion of kickass workout with a whole lot of New Orleans culture. More than just a workout, it’s an experience that combines yoga, pilates, strength training, weight training, cardio, and barre ALL IN ONE CLASS! This class will be live streamed on Zoom. Register on their website to receive a custom link to join. The first class is free & registration is also available on ClassPass. Footprints to Fitness have Zoom classes offered every day of the week, so give their schedule a look.
For the Culture with Samantha Pearl & Tajh Derosier | 7 p.m. | Facebook Live and Instagram Live | Tips encouraged
House of Blues has been hosting a twice-weekly series of New Orleans-based musicians, and this Thursday they’re presenting Samantha Pearl & Tajh Derosier who will dazzle with their collaboration between vocals, guitar and tenor sax. They’ll be playing a mix of soul, blues, jazz and R&B.
Eric Johanson Live | 7 p.m. | Facebook Live | Tips encouraged
Eric is a native Louisianian singer playing a 90-minute set of his guitar-driven rock and blues music.
FRIDAY, JULY 31
Cardio Blast Live Stream | 10 a.m. | Zoom (link will be sent upon registration) | Free
Join Footprints To Fitness for a free 30 minutes cardio workout in partnership with FitNOLA and the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission. The class is designed for all levels so bring the whole family!
Live FitNOLA Class — Zumba | 7 p.m. | Zoom | Free
The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission is leading virtual exercise classes every day of the week (often, both, in the evening and during the day). This Friday at 7 p.m., the class is focused on Zumba, but classes throughout the week are all different. Check out a list of the full offerings here and here to find out when they’ll be leading classes in pilates, yoga, fitness, line dancing, swing, hip hop and much more! To join in on Zoom, use the link above and enter the Meeting ID (334-196-3309) and Password (BeFitNOLA).
Fridays from the Funky Uncle! | 7:30 p.m. | Facebook Live | Tips encouraged via PayPal, GoFundMe or Venmo
“Friday’s From the Funky Uncle!” is a webcast featuring New Orleans Funk Musicians playing live to raise money for all members of the entertainment community in New Orleans who are in need. Check back later in the week to see who’ll be this Friday’s artist!
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1
Fitness Fusion Class | 9:15 a.m. | Zoom link will be provided once you register | Register here and first class is free
Like a gumbo pot, health and wellness company Footprints To Fitness created their master Fitness Fusion class to provide something for everyone… a true fusion of kickass workout with a whole lot of New Orleans culture. More than just a workout, it’s an experience! This class will be live streamed on Zoom. Register on their website to receive a custom link to join. The first class is free & registration is also available on ClassPass.
Join The Journey for an all levels, high intensity combo class led by founder and media personality April Dupre, that combines yoga, pilates, strength training, weight training, cardio, and barre ALL IN ONE CLASS!
NOLA Ready Evacuation Volunteer Training | 10 a.m. | Online (link will be provided once you register) | Free
It’s not the most fun event to think about, but Hurricane Season is here and NOLA Ready & the New Orleans Health Department need your help in getting our neighbors to safely evacuate. This one-hour training will teach you how you can be most useful should our next big hurricane come this year.
Porch Fest: The 1940s | 4 p.m. | Facebook Live | Tips encouraged
Anais St. John and Harry Mayronne Sr. are back for another round of Saturday tunes. Last week they performed this music of the 1930s, and this week’s hour-long set is all about their favorite tunes from the 1940s!
Led Zeppelin: A Tribute | 4:30 p.m. | Facebook Live | Tips encouraged
Has #stayathome really cut into Led Zeppelin listening? Problem solved as School of Rock pays tribute to the iconic band — streaming live from the Art Garage on St. Claude Avenue during this hour-long show! They’ve also got an AC/DC and KISS show at noon, and an indie rock show at 2!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDOqjOMDBhI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Basketball is Back! | 5 p.m. | Fox Sports New Orleans and ESPN Radio (100.3 FM) | Free
Basketball is back from a “bubble” in Orlando after a four-month hiatus! It’s a final push to see if the Pelicans can make the playoffs in Zion’s inaugural season. Let’s go Pels!
Live Music from SideBar NOLA | Every night | Website | Tips accepted here
SideBar NOLA has live local music streaming for you nearly every night of the week. For a full listing of their performances, check out this page.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 2
Japan-NOLA Jazz Performance Series | 1 p.m. | Instagram Live and Facebook Live | Tips encouraged
Haruka Kikuchi has been in New Orleans since 2014 and has made a name for herself as a superstar trombonist. Watch her perform with Yoshitaka “Z2” Tsuji on keyboard and special guest Nobu Ozaki on bass.
Sunday Swing Livestream from Allways! | 9 p.m. | Facebook Live | Tips encouraged for the band and the bar.
The Allways Lounge & Cabaret’s popular Sunday Swing is back — but this time they’re in livestream form! The evening will be hosted by the Jazz Band Ballers. Join in for some stellar music, and maybe even dust off those dancing shoes!
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See? There’s tons going on! If you can afford it, please be sure to tip the band/performers/DJ/teachers/etc. Many of them are battling lost gigs as a result of the pandemic, and are working very hard to keep us entertained during the unique times.
Remember, send me an email if you have an event you’d like me to add for next week’s round-up!
WRITER MATT HAINES LIVES IN NEW ORLEANS. FOLLOW HIM FOR ALL THINGS GOING ON IN NOLA — DURING TIMES OF PANDEMIC AND OTHERWISE — AT MATTHAINESWRITES.COM, AND ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM AND TWITTER.
