This Friday night, Mardi Gras comes early as dozens of the black Indians in New Orleans, musicians, and other culture bearers will gather at the Mahalia Jackson Theater in Armstrong Park to celebrate the life and birthday of one of the true originals.
I first encountered Big Chief Alfred Doucette on the streets of Tremé on Mardi Gras back in the early 1990s. Known for his costume designs depicting historical figures and events, his incredibly artistic, uptown style “flat” suits always stand out in the downtown neighborhood, which is known for Indians creating three-dimensional designs.
Big Chief Doucette has been inducted into the Mardi Gras Indian Hall of Fame twice—once as Big Chief of the Flaming Arrow Warriors—and as Council Chief of the Flaming Arrow Warriors. He is also a master carpenter, master racecar builder and driver, thoroughbred horse trainer, and racer and past owner of the legendary Nite Cap Lounge R&B where the Meters performed early in their career. Chief Doucette is also a renowned musician, actor, songwriter and entertainer.
A cast of New Orleans’ finest musicians representing a who’s who of the local R&B music scene are scheduled to perform including guest appearances by Cyril Neville, Gaynielle Neville, Michael ”Soulman” Baptiste, Sharon Martin, the Mystics, James Andrews, Guitar Slim Jr., Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Al “Carnival Time” Johnson, and many others. Of course, the chief himself will grace the stage.
In addition to the cast of musicians performing, Mardi Gras Indian culture-bearers will be represented in full regalia. Chief Doucette, along with members of the Flaming Arrows Indian Gang, will dress in traditional Mardi Gras Indian suits and members from various Social Aid and Pleasure clubs will be second lining. New Orleans Baby Dolls will also be on stage, adding to the uniqueness of this truly New Orleans experience.
Tickets are available at the theater box office or here.
