Mardi Gras in New England

I've been impressed with the outstanding bookings and staging that Chuck Wentworth helps to produce at the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, so I've wanted to experience some of the Zydeco-themed events that he manages for his own company, Lagniappe Productions. The big one is Rhythm & Roots in Rhode Island over Labor Day weekend, but New Englanders can get taste of his jambalaya at two earlier events, the Crawfish Fest in Augusta NJ in June and (coming right up) the 15th annual Cajun and Zydeco Mardi Gras Ball February 17 in Cranston RI. Some of the biggest names in Louisiana roots music will be on hand, CJ Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band and Steve Riley & The Mamou Playboys head the bill as the folk traditions of Cajun and Zydeco cultures are celebrated in the bayous of Rhode Island. Arrive a day early for the Fat Friday Zydeco Frenzy and don't forget to get in the Mardi Gras spirit by coming in costume for the ball.