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Local comedian Jodi Borrello, who has toured the world from Las Vegas to Kuwait, is joining forces with promoter Louie Duet to reopen the 80-seat theatre as a venue for national headlining comedians, music, plays and other theatrical productions.
Kenner Mayor Mike Yenni sees the new project as a part of that area's rebirth.
"We've been trying to draw some people into that Rivertown area," says Yenni. "And, when we heard of different concepts about comedy clubs, we looked at the venue that we had at the old Children's Castle and realized we hadn't really done a whole lot with it. The numbers had slipped, as far as people that would come."
He thinks Borrello will give folks a reason to come.
"She's a world-class entertainer. She's a draw in herself and the people that she's going to be able to attract to go there are going to want to see Jodi and the people that she thinks are funny."
"So that'll be a great draw to us in south Kenner," Yenni says. "And, hopefully, that'll entice some people from the River Parishes, or Metairie or even New Orleans."
"We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring world-class comedy, music and live theater to Kenner and the entire New Orleans area," says Mayor Yenni, and he's glad to see new life being pumped into the area.
"By getting a lot of these buildings back into commerce, and trying to get some offices into them...restaurants, any types of venues like that...we're creating walking traffic in Rivertown. That's been my goal. That was my goal as the Chief Administrative Officer in the previous administration and now as mayor."
"Plus, the restaurants that we have down there...this being an adult venue and a night venue...hopefully, either before or after the shows, they'll hit those restaurants and we may be able to entice some other restaurants to come in, because there are some availabilities for restaurants in south Kenner."
The Castle Theatre will also host comedy classes taught by Borrello and acting classes taught by some of the most talented acting coaches in the area.
Castle Theatre will celebrate its grand opening at 6 p.m. on March 3rd. The public is invited to mingle with local celebrities and enjoy complimentary New Orleans cuisine, music and beverages while experiencing Castle Theatre's unique atmosphere, including its intimate theater space and enticing patio courtyard. Admission to the grand opening is also complimentary and open to the public.
