On Saturday, Feb. 18, the Firehouse Arts Center hosted a jazz show to celebrate Mardi Gras. People of all ages were welcome to enjoy this performance.

“Setting the celebration up was as simple as just calling Jeff Bordes. He’s someone that performs with us every year,” said Mark Duncanson, the recreation supervisor for the City of Pleasanton.

Bringing together nine experienced musicians, Jeff Bordes lined up two hour-long sets of lively Jazz music. The show consisted of several pieces of traditional New Orleans-style music.

“When Jeff asked me, and I got an opportunity to participate, I snapped it up because I enjoy drumming. I got to play alongside another drummer tonight who I don’t normally get to play with. And he’s a very good drummer, so it was fun,” said Wally Schnalle, a drummer in the jazz show.

Many musicians, like Schnalle, know about the culture and Mardi Gras tradition but never personally celebrate. The event was a chance for many to experience Mardi Gras in person.

“I’ve never been to New Orleans, but I love their music so much. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a big part of jazz music, so I’ve studied it some but I’ve never been there myself,” said Schnalle.

In the past, Pleasanton didn’t have a large Mardi Gras event. The recent jazz-themed event was a fitting way to start celebrating the longstanding tradition. The show was nearly sold out and dived into the jazz concert with a full house.

“I think it’s important to celebrate Mardi Gras because it’s of a different culture. And I think it’s a good idea to learn about new things because it’s diverse,” said Anusha Shelatkar (‘26).

The blend of jazz instrumentals and visuals of traditional Mardi Gras dances and masks lighting up the walls immersed the audience into the exciting setting of a New Orleans Mardi Gras. 

“[The show] felt very authentic to see because it really expressed New Orleans, where they celebrate Mardi Gras. I know that they play lots of jazz there, and it felt like I was transported to the place,” said Shelatkar.