When I walked into Rhino Coffee on Saturday, CoCreative #2 was in full swing. Anthony Garcia Gragnano and Allyson were performing with a guitar and kazoo, respectively, while art covered the walls surrounding them.
And it was hot. Not because Rhino was suffering AC issues, but because the room was packed. It was standing room only with an audience of all ages.
This was the second CoCreative event, created by Caitlin Lindsay and Leigh Rose of Vela Nora, and it had double the attendance of the first (this past May at Back 2 Back Bar in Bossier City).
As I mentioned the few options for all-ages events in SBC, Lindsay noted, “That’s what we are trying to promote… We want to encourage the all-ages crowd to get involved with the community – all of this art, all of these musicians. There is so much [all-ages talent] in Shreveport that people don’t realize. Any chance I can get to show that, I’m going to.”
The musicians of the second event included: Vela Nora, Caleb Miears, Tyler Ballard, Anthony & Allyson, Alex Nall, Ryker Hall, and Magnolia Mae. Participating artists were: Angie Correia, Courtney Wimmert, Megan Walsh, Dustin Lush, Billie Brown, Caitlin Lindsay, and Richie Howard.
“It is kind of intimidating being an artist and trying to get your work out there,” said Artist Courtney Wimmert of Shreveport, “but doing [events like CoCreative] – it really has taken me to a different level, being able to show my work in a different venue.”
Keep up with upcoming events through CoCreative’s Facebook page. In the meantime, experience Vela Nora at Marilynn’s Place on May 17.
