Celebrating African and African American Culture
Ashe Cultural Arts Center stands as a vital institution dedicated to preserving and promoting African and African American culture through the arts in New Orleans. Located at 1719 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard the center provides essential space for artists cultural practitioners and community members to gather create and celebrate.
Adinkra Lounge Open Mic
The center's Adinkra Lounge hosts monthly open mic nights typically on Friday evenings from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. These events welcome creative expression in all forms - from seasoned performers to first-timers stepping on stage for the first time. The open mic is free and open to the public with doors opening at 7:00 PM and the mic opening at 7:30 PM. Performers can sign up on the spot maintaining an accessible and spontaneous format.
Mission and Programs
Ashe Cultural Arts Center operates with a clear mission to be a catalyst for cultural equity and social change through the arts. The organization provides multidisciplinary arts programming educational initiatives and community events that center African and African American cultural traditions while remaining relevant to contemporary experiences.
Community Impact
The center serves as a gathering place where culture creativity and community intersect. Through various programs and events Ashe creates opportunities for artistic growth cultural preservation and community building. The organization recognizes that the arts serve not just as entertainment but as essential tools for cultural expression education and social transformation.
The Oretha Castle Haley Corridor
Located on the historic Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard (formerly Dryades Street) the center occupies a significant position in a corridor undergoing cultural and economic revitalization. This area has deep historical importance in New Orleans' African American community and Ashe plays a central role in honoring that legacy while contributing to the neighborhood's ongoing evolution.
Performance Space
The Adinkra Lounge provides an intimate supportive environment for performances. The space features appropriate sound reinforcement for various artistic expressions while maintaining the warmth and community feel that characterizes the center's approach. The atmosphere encourages risk-taking and authentic expression recognizing that art thrives when creators feel supported and valued.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Ashe Cultural Arts Center operates with strong commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Events are designed to welcome participants from throughout New Orleans regardless of economic means with many programs offered free or at minimal cost. This approach ensures that cultural participation isn't limited by financial barriers honoring the principle that culture belongs to the community.