Marshall, Texas – The beloved Boogie Woogie Festival is back for its fourth year, bringing two evenings of live music, a student‑run showcase and a celebration of the region’s rich musical heritage to Memorial City Hall this Friday and Saturday.
Evening performances highlight local talent
Friday’s concert kicks off at 7 p.m. with a lineup that includes local guitarist and vocalist Anthony Parrish and his band, the Fox Man. They will be followed by blues‑rock veteran Daryl Davis and the soulful sounds of Wes Jeans. The night will close with a set by Jason D. Williams, rounding out a diverse program that showcases the depth of East Texas music.
Saturday’s stage features regional favorites
Saturday’s evening show also begins at 7 p.m. and presents a mix of zydeco, country and rock. Audiences can enjoy the energetic performance of Nella B and the Noise, the legendary guitarist Bill Kirchen, and the celebrated zydeco artist C.J. Chenier with his band. The varied roster reflects the festival’s mission to honor both historic and contemporary styles that have shaped the local soundscape.
Marshall High School students take the spotlight
In addition to the ticketed concerts, Marshall High School’s performing‑arts groups will present a free, boogie‑woogie‑themed show at 2 p.m. on Saturday. The program includes the school’s jazz ensemble, choir, the Mavettes dance troupe and the color guard, offering students a platform to display their talents while fostering community pride.
Tickets support arts scholarships
General admission for the evening concerts starts at about $15, while a weekend pass is available for roughly $40. All tickets can be purchased online at boogiewoogie.org. Festival founder Alan Loudermilk explained that ticket revenue is earmarked for performing‑arts scholarships, helping local students continue their education in the arts after high school.
Explore the Lead Belly Room at the Marshall Depot
Festival visitors can also tour the Lead Belly Room located in the historic Marshall Depot. The museum space honors folk and blues legend Huddie Ledbetter, known as Lead Belly, who began his professional career in Marshall. The room features original artifacts and a three‑dimensional recreation of the musician. The depot and its Lead Belly exhibit are open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., except Sundays, and admission is free.
Future plans for the Boogie Woogie Room
Loudermilk noted that the depot’s Boogie Woogie Room is currently undergoing renovations. He envisions creating a “wall of fame” to recognize past performers, with the possibility of expanding the space into a full‑time hall of fame for the genre.
The Boogie Woogie Festival continues to serve as a cultural touchstone for Marshall, blending entertainment, education and charitable support for the next generation of artists.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
