artiste Nov/Dec | Page 13

I do my art in Acadiana because there's a great need for it here. Art, especially dance, on a professional level is hard to come by on a regular basis in Acadiana. It is usually only offered when larger dance companies are brought in through other venues, such as the Heymann, or even through the AcA. I wanted to bring my training and my art back home, and expose this area to the professional experiences that I have had and all that I have learned from them.

-Melinda Caubarreaux

Acadiana is pure heart and soul. Its energy pours out of every satsuma tree, sticky summer swamp, echoes of music touted by old friends and every smile when you help stir the pot. Inspiration and creativity is at the very core of Acadiana and you can't help dancing as you're swept up in the magic. The people, of course, are the reason I design and perform in Acadiana. Nowhere else would we be welcomed, supported and inspired with such open (yet honest) arms.

-Meagan Patout

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