The Festival of New Orleans, The O2

Two years after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans was still feeling the horrendous effects of that 72 hours. But inspired by the creative drive and  aftermath of the 2005 floods, US New Orleans Festival promoters Anschutz Entertainment Group collaborated with UK entertainment promoters Kilimanjaro Live Ltd to stage a fundraising festival at The O2, London. This three-night, two-day free event brought the New Orleans Festival to London, with proceeds collected going to foundations that were helping people affected by the floods.

Performers such as Dr John, Allen Toussaint, Buckwheat Zydeco, BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet and New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian Rhythm Section played in the smaller venues and outside spaces of The O2. AEG subsequently rolled out this successful and pioneering format for site-wide genre-specific festivals across its other venues, and continues to do so.