The night turned a quiet patch of grass across from Laughing Sam’s Discs into a cozy stage for local talent and a welcoming spot for music lovers.
The Natchitoches Original Music Showcase presented by Laughing Sam’s, the town’s go-to spot for all things music, on Sept. 6 allowed couples, friends and family to gather together.
That night, four original bands ranging from indie to folk were featured: The Story is Everything, Marvin Gistarb, Sam Wise and Sauce.
The soulful banjo from the first band, The Story is Everything, was heard down the street and played as people waited with excitement. Describing themselves as a band where “Southern Gothic meets Simon and Garfunkel,” they brought folklore energy to the stage.
“I’ve been to plenty of festivals, but it’s ones like these that make me feel at home,” Mark Thompson, who drove in from Shreveport for the weekend, said. “It makes for a great memory, and a great way to end the night.”
The lineup highlighted original works from local artists, with genres ranging from soulful folk to blues-rock and a bit of indie flair. With every band having their own unique style, this was a night to remember.
For visitors, it wasn’t just about the music—it was about the experience. “Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect when my friend suggested we come,” Sarah Miller, a new resident of Natchitoches, said. “But once we sat down and the first band started, I loved it!”
The music was warm and welcoming, and it attracted different crowds of people all into the night.
Marvin Gistarb’s music stuck out to one listener especially. “The beat is really good, it reminds me of Young Gravy,” Madeline Boyer, a freshman social work major, said. “I would recommend it, and coming here has made me feel really involved.”
The showcase served as both entertainment and a reminder of what makes Natchitoches special: community, creativity and charm. The intimate setup drew people in closer, not just to the stage, but to each other.
It was a gathering for Natchitoches natives and people passing by to enjoy the scenery, a cozy community vibe and lively music, and in a town that knows how to celebrate culture, that’s exactly the kind of memory worth making.
The music lingered into the night, and it was clear the showcase was more than just a festival.
