JUMP - June 19 and 20, 2008

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Arkansas jazz pioneer Louis Jordan, Wildwood Park, the Louis Jordan Tribute and the Butler Center for Arkansas Studies are collaborating to produce JUMP, a high-energy, musical tribute showcasing the work of one of Arkansas' most famous and respected native sons.

The day-long festival will include performances by area "jump bands"; dance demonstrations of swing-era dances such as the lindy-hop, swing and bee-bop and the screening of Louis Jordan movies in Wildwood's studio theatre.

In tribute to one of Jordan's most popular songs, "Saturday Night Fish Fry", a fish fry that includes such delta favorites as collards and sweet potato pie will be incorporated in the festival. Delta-made products will be available for purchase.

Festivities will culminate with the premier of JUMP: the Louis Jordan Story in the Lucy Lockett Cabe Festival Theatre. This new work will be directed by Wildwood's Cliff Baker and written by Stephen Koch, award-winning Arkansas journalist. (Founder of the Louis Jordan Tribute, Koch has been researching and writing about Louis Jordan, his music and his influence for more that 15 years. His popular program, Arkansongs, is syndicated on National Public Radio affiliates across the state, and is his home station FM-89’s most popular podcast.)

Adults $50 (includes show and fish fry)
Students $25

For tickets - call 821-7275 to charge by phone or order online.