Culture Collision showcases New Orleans arts offerings

NolaVie will be among 48 local cultural organizations showcasing their offerings at Culture Collision 3. The event kicks off the 2011-2012 cultural season on Wednesday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the New Orleans Museum of Art. An after-party in the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden follows from 8 to 10 p.m.

This unique annual event brings together New Orleans’ cultural organizations for a one-of-a-kind happy hour designed to encourage participation and involvement in the New Orleans art and cultural scene. Admission to the event is free, and attendees will have the opportunity to scope out upcoming events, take advantage of exclusive ticket promotions, and meet like-minded arts lovers.

In addition to NolaVie, which celebrates New Orleans’ unique lifestyles and cultural offerings through its web publications and local events, participating groups range from performing arts groups and museums to literary events and film festivals.

More than 1,700 people turned out for last year’s event, and this year’s Culture Collision is expected to generate an even larger audience. Participating organizations will have tables on the first and second floors of the great hall, local restaurants Salú and Café NOMA will provide complimentary light fare, and cash bars will be set up throughout the museum. Giveaways courtesy of participating organizations will be ongoing throughout the evening.

The after-party, which will allow for additional networking opportunities once the great hall is closed, will feature free cupcakes and popsicles from Sugarbakers and Meltdown, an open bar sponsored by Allways Lounge, and the musical stylings of DJ Matty, a favorite at local nightspots, including The Saint, Mimi’s, and The Saturn Bar.

The event is sponsored by WWNO and organized by the Arts Council of New Orleans, Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, New Orleans Ballet Association, New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans Opera Association, Ogden Museum of Art and Southern Rep.