Leslie Golden, director of the Akansa Arts Festival of the South, presented an exciting lineup for the upcoming 9th annual festival during a recent government meeting. Scheduled to run from September 5 to September 21, the festival aims to celebrate the arts across North Little Rock and Little Rock, engaging the community with a variety of performances and events.

Golden highlighted that artists from Arkansas, the broader region, and even Australia will participate, with accommodations provided at the Wyndham Riverfront. The festival will kick off with a celebration featuring the local band Big Damn Horns, known for their lively performances, on September 5. Tickets for events are priced affordably, with most ranging from free to $35, to ensure accessibility for all community members.

Among the festival's highlights are performances by The Heart Collectors from Australia, a Family Arts Day in partnership with the University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College, and a special show titled \"Cello Stories\" featuring a Broadway cellist. Other notable events include a production of Neil Simon's \"The Sunshine Boys,\" a unique performance by the trio Triplicity, and a free concert by GangstaGrass, blending rap and bluegrass.

Golden emphasized the festival's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, encouraging residents to attend and support local artists. The Akansa Arts Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of culture and creativity, fostering connections within the community.