Santa Barbara’s La Boheme Brings Mardi Gras Magic to Alhecama Theatre

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – While Bourbon Street in New Orleans was alive with Mardi Gras festivities, Santa Barbara had its own celebration as La Boheme hosted its fourth annual Mardi Gras bash Saturday night.

The professional dance group, led by Teresa Kuskey, invited attendees to enjoy a lively show featuring a variety of entertainment at the Alhecama Theatre, part of El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park in the city's downtown. The sold-out event served as a fundraiser for the group.

John Palminteri helped emcee the event, which brought the spirit of New Orleans to the local community.

Musician Michael Gutin shared his thoughts on the meaning of Mardi Gras.

“Mardi Gras means having a very, very good time because the next day is Ash Wednesday, and you're supposed to be good for 40 days, as it marks the beginning of Lent. I see Mardi Gras, which means ‘Fat Tuesday’ in French, as an opportunity for people to come together and party like there’s no tomorrow—because there is no tomorrow; you have to be good for 40 days.”

Gutin will be performing at The Palace in Santa Barbara on Fat Tuesday and encourages people to embrace the celebration just as they did at La Boheme’s Mardi Gras party.