Count Basie trumpeter to headline WC Mardi Gras Festival
Community invited to enter third-annual gumbo contest
Weatherford College’s Mardi Gras Festival and gumbo contest are back for a third year.
Festivities will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 4, in the Alkek Fine Arts
Center, featuring guest artist Mike Williams.
Williams is a renowned jazz trumpeter with 31 years as lead trumpet for the Count Basie Orchestra. He is a highly accomplished musician and educator who has performed globally and recorded multiple Grammy-winning albums.
In Texas Hall prior to the concert, the Rhythmators will make their return, featuring soulful renditions of classic blues and soul songs of the past, as well as their own brand of original Texas R&B.
Complimentary food offerings will include shrimp, jambalaya, po’boys, king cake, fresh boiled crawfish and more.
The gumbo contest is open to the entire community, but the deadline to enter is Feb. 25. Contestants are responsible for supplying their gumbo and bringing it pre-cooked and in a warmer to Alkek Room 103. Chefs may arrive at 4 p.m. and be set up and ready when four judges stop by for samples at 5:45 p.m.
The college will provide rice, bowls, spoons and electrical outlets. Cooks are encouraged to dress for Mardi Gras. Contestants will provide their own ladle.
The judges will select their top three gumbos and announce the winners at 7:30 p.m. in the Alkek theater.
To enter the contest, contact Sandra Kurosky at skurosky@wc.edu 817-598-8833 or Eben Hall at ehall@wc.edu 214-802-3726.
The WC Mardi Gras Festival is free, open to the public, and family-friendly. Come enjoy great music and food, and let the good times roll!