The Vie Side: Jazz, exotic animals, commentary through performance

SATURDAY / Bleu like jazz: On a Saturday night, Frenchmen Street is always on the table, whether it’s an early show, an after party, or the main event. This Saturday, Bleu Orleans is playing at Café Istanbul at 8 and 10 PM. Showcasing amazing musicians who started local, then brought their talents around the world and back again, their reunion show this weekend is sure to show some serious skill, soul, and jazz done right.

SATURDAY / If you hear hoof beats…: My grandfather always said, “If you hear hoof beats, think horses, not zebras.” This Saturday, my grandfather would be wrong. Zebra racing is debuting at the Fairgrounds, accompanied by the return of ostrich racing. Ostriches can reach speeds of up to 43 miles an hour, so aside from watching them race, I might take one home and see if they’re any better at navigating all of the Claiborne construction than I am. Gates open at 12:30 with the first post opening at 2.

SUNDAY / A trois: Though some people think the best things in life come in pairs, I’m more inclined to believe they come in threes. Such is the case for Crescent City Choreographers showcase this Sunday, Collage A Trois, which features the big three of dance, poetry, and music. Crescent City Choreographers provide personal stories, perspectives, and social commentary through performance. Free drinks are provided with admission, though the sure to be moving exhibition should be worth far more than the $15 ticket.

Anna Shults is associate editor of NolaVie.