Universal Studios Mardi Gras Concert Lineup
Posted on Thu, Jan 29, 2009 @ 12:00 PM
Universal Studios 2009 Mardi Gras Concert Lineup
Starting Feb.7th, Universal Studios Orlando is unleashing the biggest Mardi Gras celebration this side of the bayou with the most powerful and diverse concert series in the event's history. With a combined total of more than 300 million records sold and a dozen Grammy Awards, this year's Mardi Gras line-up features 13 of the most popular names in pop, rock, R&B, country, hip-hop and more.
Guests will experience a Mardi Gras concert series like no other, with performances by Billboard Chart-topper Ne-Yo, American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson, country music-duo Montgomery Gentry and Grammy Award-winning rapper Nelly. Other headliners include the hit artists behind classics such as "Hit Me with Your Best Shot," "Too Legit to Quit," and "Y.M.C.A." - Pat Benatar, MC Hammer and The Village People, respectively. In addition, New Orleans bands will showcase their authentic bayou music in the French Quarter, a replica of New Orleans' famed district.
"This year's Mardi Gras will be our best party ever," said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. "We've got the best music line-up in the history of the event, along with a non-stop celebration filled with an amazing parade, floats, food and all of the beads you can catch."
Guests will experience the most authentic Mardi Gras celebration outside of The Big Easy when the event kicks off on February 7th and runs every Saturday night through April 18th, with additional dates on Sunday, February 15th and Friday, March 27th. Guests will enjoy hundreds of costumed characters, tons of souvenir beads, Cajun cuisine and an elaborate parade featuring floats designed by Blaine Kern Artists, Inc, who designs floats for the New Orleans parade.
This year's parade theme is "Stories," giving guests a glimpse into the world of literature. Themed floats featuring iconic characters and settings from the pages of the most popular and beloved books featuring genres such as Mystery, Romance and Horror will cruise the streets of Universal Studios throughout the event.