Pandemic can't keep Mardi Gras from Terrance Simien

Even though COVID-19 has taken so much over in the past year, Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience were determined a safe Mardi Gras celebration wasn't going to be on that list in 2021. That's why the national touring act — which has brought a hypnotic blend of New Orleans funk, reggae-flavored world-blues and American Zydeco roots music to Lorain County numerous times over the last few years — will be livestreaming a free performance at 8:30 p.m. today from the Vermilionville Performance Center in Lafayette, Louisiana. "I've been touring since 1985, and this is the first year I've been home longer than two months," said Simien, calling from his Louisiana home. "This livestream will be the first time the whole band gets together after nearly a year off. "Everybody is excited to be playing and putting out a little Mardi Gras vibe for people. This is the first year down here that everything has been canceled for good reason. People are improvising, decorating their houses and doing drive-by events. This is our way of trying to give all of our friends a little taste of Mardi Gras." It was nearly a year ago that Simien and company played one of its last gigs of 2020 at the Stocker Arts Center. Considering the history between Simien and Elyria, Stocker Arts Center Director Janet Herman Barlow is happy to bring a familiar face — albeit virtually — to homebound theatergoers. "We can all use a little more fun in our lives right now," Herman Barlow said. "Since we're not yet presenting live events, I'm ecstatic that Terrance Simien, one of our favorite artists, is performing this livestream. "Though we always prefer to have the band live on our stage with people filling the seats of the Hoke Theatre, this livestream opportunity gives us a new and unique 'backstage pass' that will include glimpses into the music and culture of Louisiana and Mardi Gras." Speaking of that culture, there's a culinary aspect to the celebration. Simien offered the perfect menu to suit the virtual atmosphere. "You should make your hurricanes or whatever drink you want," Simien said. "Also, I'd suggest making the Mardis Gras gumbo. That's the dish we eat before Mardis Gras. That's tradition in Louisiana." As for the notion of returning to Lorain County for a proper in-person Mardis Gras celebration, Simien said he's ready. "That sounds awesome," Simien said. "I can't wait until we can be back on the road playing gigs and seeing all of our friends. I really miss being able to perform and hang out with everybody." For more information, visit stockerartscenter.com. Tickets grant participants 48-hour access to the performance video for those who cannot attend in real time. Contact John Benson at Ndiffrence@att.net.