Music Box Village (OUTDOORS)
The Music Box Village is a place where play, imagination, experimentation, collaboration, community and hard work come together as a whimsical village of artist-made interactive “musical houses.” Each installation is inspired by the unique musical and architectural culture of our home city of New Orleans, and represents a collaborative process between artists based here and abroad. Our one-of-a-kind art site hosts intensive artist residencies, performances, panels, and welcomes visitors for exploration and play.
Music Box Village is the flagship project of New Orleans Airlift, an artist-driven non-profit organization whose mission is to collaborate to inspire wonder, connect communities, and foster opportunities through arts education and the creation of experimental public artworks.
Upcoming Shows
3-9pm | Majekfingers Drumming School celebrates their 15th Anniversary with the 3rd Annual Feel the Rhythm of the Drums Festival!
This year’s festival shines a spotlight on folkloric traditions that, while not always widely known among New Orleanians, are deeply embedded in the Afro-Caribbean rhythms that fuel the city's vibrant musical identity. Audiences will be treated to the powerful sounds of Bomba from Puerto Rico, performed by the dynamic Bombazo Dance Company led by Milteri Tucker, and the rich, soulful rhythms of Brazil, brought to life by the electrifying group Tamojunto.
In keeping with its growing international vision, the festival proudly welcomes the return of cherished collaborators. Papa Titos Sompa will open the event with a spirited drumming workshop and dance from the Congo, setting the tone for a day of cultural celebration. Beloved local performers the Silhouette Dance Ensemble led by Mama Kai Knight—will bring the rhythms of Haiti to the stage, honoring the enduring legacy of African diasporic traditions.
We’re also thrilled to welcome youth-focused groups like the inspiring Nairobi Youth Ensemble and the energetic Watotos of Kumbuka and Dance Ensemble, adding youthful vibrancy and global perspective to the festival experience.
Together, these extraordinary artists and ensembles will create a powerful, joyful celebration of rhythm and resilience—unifying communities through the universal heartbeat of the drum.
Orlando Primo, festival curator and founder of Majek Fingers International School of Drumming is the creative force behind this unique event that shares folkloric drum and dance styles from across the African diaspora, and invites audience members to learn and engage with what they are hearing. The combination of interactivity and performance educates and inspires as it encourages artists and attendees alike to participate in cross-cultural exchange.
Tickets $22.23 (Early Bird) | $27.88 (Adult) | $10.93 (Children 3-12)
