Hollywood, Elvis & Much More
Films in the Bayou, A Visit with Elvis and Supernatural Encounters
Bet you didn't know that the State of Louisiana is now a major venue for film makers. Another fact you may not know: Elvis made his professional debut in Shreveport.
Bet you didn't know that Louisiana is now a major venue for film makers. New Orleans has always been a favorite for filming, but after Katrina, film makers had to stop production on their films and seek other sites. Welcome Hollywood on the Bayou! Shreveport has welcomed film makers and they, in turn, have benefited from the lucrative tax incentives, low cost of living, and high quality of life and the ability of this city to look like "Every Town USA". To date, 12 films have wrapped in Shreveport, including "The Guardian" with Kevin Costner, "Factory Girl" with Sienna Miler and "Premonition" with Sandra Bullock. Many more are planned. Filmed most recently: "The Cleaner" with Samuel L. Jackson, and a Steven King thriller, "The Mist."
For Shreveport, film production has proven very lucrative. In 2006 alone, $75,000,000 has been added to the local economy from films made there - a win-win deal all around. So don't be surprised, as you tour Shreveport, if you come across one of your favorite Holywood stars casually lounging on a park bench, taking a break from the action.
If you visit Shreveport, many pleasant surprises await you. This city is filled with culture, history and fun activities for the whole family. It's a good vacation choice for anyone wanting to visit art galleries, bop into a casino - if so inclined, relax in one of the lovely parks and enjoy great food. Oh yes, the food. No trip to Shreveport would be compelte without sampling some Creole gumbo and crawfish etouffee. Yes!
Something else you may not know: Elvis made his first professional appearance at the Shreveport Municipal Auditoriam and on October 16, the Auditorium will celebrate the 50th anniversary of his appearance. As a tribute, a statue of Elvis stands front and center as you approach the site.
The Municipal Auditorium is a must-see. Completed in 1929, it is equal in square footage to six football fields. Tour their Museum to learn of its rich musical heritage. Memorabilia from the famous that have appeared on its vast stage, from Johnny Cash, Faron Young, Kris Kristofferson to Eleanor Roosevelt brings a haunting nostalgia to the experience. One can almost hear Hank Williams calling "Hey, Good Lookin'" down the long corridors.
The Fairfield Bed & Breakfast offers comfortable lodging. The property is made up of two adjoining homes built circa 1870 with over an acre of gardens and patios. A highlight here is the breakfast! Host Mark Faser, makes a memorable baked apple French toast with caramelized bacon. A delicious way to start your day!
Before leaving Shreveport, visit the Logan Mansion. This home was built in 1897, and is one of the finest remaining Queen Anne Victorian houses in the city. Owner Vicki LeBrun will give you a tour, share some history of Shreveport life and culture in the early 1900s, and regale you with stories of supernatural encounters in this house.
Shreveport is open for business and ready to welcome you. So, come on down, y'all!
