Magical, musical Memphis in May

Southern Living, May 1997 by Stith, Mark G

You know Memphis is a mecca for music, whether it's blues, rock, country, or classical. You know Memphis is a mecca for food too, be it barbecue, Cajun, Continental or Southern fried. Well, locals know it as well, and they celebrate the best of the city's creative spirit with Memphis in May.

The festival honors the performing arts of a different country each year. Other activities include the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, the Beale Street Music Festival, and the Sunset Symphony and Rehearsal Picnic.

"This year, we'll have special performances featuring the music and dance of Brazil," says Delanie Parker, interim director.

The first weekend in May will bring more than 60 of the top musical groups in the South to the Beale Street Music Festival. The following weekend will focus on Brazilian folk dancing at the Germantown Performing Arts Center. In addition, the Peabody Hotel will host Brasileiro, an evening of native music and food Friday night, with carnival-costumed dancers.

The third weekend presents a crowd favorite, the barbecue cooking contest. More than 250 teams will compete for prize money and honors. Of course, you're welcome to offer your own opinion.

The celebration draws to a grand close with the Sunset Symphony on the banks of the Mississippi. Families and friends enjoy picnicking on the riverbank, listening to the music under the stars, and watching the spectacular fireworks display afterward. The rehearsal performance on Friday night offers alfresco dining.

"We're so excited about this year's festival," adds Delanie. "It gives us a chance to show off the best of Memphis. There really is something for everyone." Mark G. Stith Memphis in May: 245 Wagner Place, Suite 220, Memphis, TN 38103; (901) 5254611.

May 2-4: Beale Street Music Festival, Tom Lee Park. Admission: $13 in advance, $16 at the gate; $30 for three-day pass, $40 at the gate. Call TicketMaster at (901) 525-1515.

May 9: Brasileiro, Peabody Hotel. Admission: $75. Call (901) 5254611, ext. 105. May 9-11: Brazilian folk dancing, Germantown Performing Arts Center. Admission: $20. Call (901) 766-7256.

May 15-17: World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, Tom Lee Park. Admission: $5 adults, $3 ages 6-12. Call (901) 525-4611, ext. 108.

May 23: Rehearsal Picnic, Tom Lee Park. Admission: $35 each. Call (901) 525-4611, ext. 105. May 24: Sunset Symphony, Tom Lee Park. Admission: $5 adults, $3 ages 6-12. Call (901) 525-4611, ext. 108. o