The Voices Foundation tours "The Voices of Louisiana"


TheVoices Foundation will present, “The Voices From Louisiana,” an educational tour aimed at increasing public awareness of the history, the contributions, and hardships of Louisiana. Written by Arabi playwright, Barry Lemoine, the production includes original stories from hurricane survivors, putting faces to the tragedy. The production will also highlight the importance of Louisiana in American History, emphasizing the The Louisiana Purchase, and the significance of acquiring New Orleans.

This tour will be conducted by a group of actors that has worked together on a number of school and community projects in the past. This project will be the first production for this ensemble. The troupe includes Barry Lemoine, Rose Marie Sand, Shannon Gildea, Christian Bordelon, Will Schneider, Tom Hassinger, and Katie Betz. This troupe has come together with a common intention, serving as ambassadors, educating the public through performance.

The tour is scheduled to begin August 20, 2006 and will end the first week of November 2006. The Voices From Louisiana tour will visit 12 states in 12 weeks covering Louisiana Purchase territory including Oklahoma and Kansas (August 21 – September 4), Colorado (September 4-10), Nebraska (September 11-17), South Dakota (September 18-24), Montana (September 25 to October1), North Dakota (October 2 – 8), Minnesota (October 9-15), Iowa (October 16-22), Missouri (October 23-29), and Arkansas (October 30 to November 5). The tour will be open to but not limited to elementary, middle, and high schools, universities, festivals, and repertory and community theatres.
The tour will also reach some of the 100 Best Communities for Young People as chosen by America’s Promise – The Alliance For Youth.

"The aim in presenting The Voices From Louisiana to communities across America, is to create public awareness and to educate them about issues that affect Louisiana and the nation," said Voices Board member and Secretary, Shannon Gildea.

In preparation for this activity ensemble members are researching the states involved in the tour, while rehearsing twice weekly. As the activity approaches, daily rehearsals will be held and weekly meetings will be conducted. During the 12 weeks of the scheduled activity, time each day will be spent achieving the expressed purpose of The Voices Foundation sharing and gathering stories. The Voices Foundation means to network with other community leaders and citizens, gathering local culture, and documenting these stories through a theatrical exchange.

The tour will be funded by donations only and any proceeds will be allocated to helping the Foundation achieve its educational purpose.

The Voices Foundation does not operate under any other name; to support our narrative description of activities, call Barry Lemoine at 504.301.8770 or Rose Marie Sand at 504.666.1220.