Singer and musician Elizabeth Blouin-Brathwaite couldn’t feel more at home. She is part of the cast of New Orleans Bluesa show that offers a musical, historical and gastronomic journey that plunges us directly into the heart of Bourbon Street in New Orleans, staged by her father, Normand Brathwaite. What more could she ask for?
• Read also: Normand Brathwaite has a lot of fun working with his daughter Elizabeth
Elizabeth, this new show takes you through almost a century of musical history, right?
Yes, almost 100 years. We start with songs from 1940 and go all the way to Britney Spears’ song Baby One More Time, which is from New Orleans. It’s my son’s favorite song. Many of the artists who perform in the show are also in the show. Belle and Bum. The brass instruments transport us directly to New Orleans. We realize that it is the cradle of great musical trends, whether blues, gospel or funk. There’s even hip-hop in the show.
Working with your father and reconnecting with him on stage must be a joy for you…
Yes, because my father and I have always had a good relationship. We are closer than ever. With this show, he gives me a gift. Only my father, who knows me so well, would offer to take part in a show like this. He is an extraordinary director! He is smart and relaxed with everyone. He is a kind-hearted person. I love him so much! During the show, we live next to each other. I made choices and life changes for this show: I now live in Estrie.
Does your son still love music?
Yes! William is my little knight, my little protector. He loves stories where the knight saves the princess… He is supremely intelligent. His father works in construction, so he has this resourceful side, while I bring him the artistic side. He is ultra talented in addition to being a multi-instrumentalist… and he is only three years old! With his family tree, it’s not surprising! Let’s just say he has several options…
Will you bring William with you on tour?
Being away from my son destroys me…I have no words to describe how torture it is. But as my mother (the singer Johanne Blouin) told me so well, she went on tour when I was three years old, and I don’t remember it!
So it’s more difficult for mom than for son?
Indeed. I miss him terribly, but my father is there to help me through these difficult times. It’s a show that does me good. With my father and these extraordinary artists, I am well surrounded. I am sure that my son will be proud of me…
New Orleans Blues is presented at Espace St-Denis in Montreal until September 1st. Info: spacestdenis.com.
