Cemetery Preservation with a Twist
Shanna Riley March 7th, 2008
Between Friday and Saturday, March 6-7, The Foundation for Historical Louisiana will be putting on a "show" at the chronicled and venerable Magnolia Cemetery in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Dubbed Magnolia Memories, actors will play the parts of seven former movers and shakers of Baton Rouge and Louisiana history at their final resting places. Audience members will follow the actors from grave to grave and be able to enjoy a performance written to give you some insight into the person whose grave you are standing at.
The affair begins at 6:45pm on both evenings, and the events will follow one another throughout the evening (each show will only be able to include a certain number of people).
It's a wonderful way to educate the public on our city's, and our state's, colorful history and heritage as well as helping to preserve a beautiful, old cemetery and important piece of our history (ticket sales and proceeds go to the preservation of Magnolia Cemetery). Tickets are $25 for members of the Foundation, and $35 for non-members. You can call (225) 387-2464 to reserve yours now; seating is limited, so be sure to call and order your tickets if you'd like to attend.
For more information, I recommend watching this video, which aired on WBRZ's 2une In last month. It is an interview with two of the directors and actors of the show, Robert Wilson and Neena Kelfstrom, and explains not only the reasoning behind the show, but expounds on some of the important reasons behind cemetery, and history, preservation. You can also visit 225BatonRouge.com for an in-depth write-up on the event, Magnolia's Memories V.
Check back this weekend for my own review of this special and exciting event!