QuackTunes duck calls will be available at one of the many booths during the Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival July 15-16 at Prather Coliseum on NSU campus. The 2016 Festival theme is “Emerging Artists,” celebrating the many outstanding new artists keeping traditions alive in Louisiana.

QuackTunes was formed by Luis Saucier from Pineville. He grew up in Alexandria and has had a lifelong passion for hunting. A few years ago, he and his son were hunting ducks with a commercial made call. The call needed some tuning and after taking it apart, Luis decided to try making his own. He used a lathe that was a keepsake from a family friend. This was the start of a hobby that he truly enjoys. Luis began turning game calls with some wood that was given to him, then some from his own yard and even some from different continents. Not only has he turned wood calls, but fashioned a variety made from acrylic and stabilized wood. He prepares each of the calls as if they were for his own collection, with perfection in mind. Truly one-of-a-kind in craftsmanship, the custom calls are not only treasured for their beauty, but usable.

Nearly four dozen craftspeople have been invited to display and discuss their traditional work on the Saturday of the festival. Expect displays of furniture, art, toys, dolls, jewelry, whips, filé, handmade musical instruments, baskets, weaving, pottery, beadwork and more.

Two day all-events passes may be purchased in advance through July 12 at a discounted price of $12 per person.  Children age 12 and under receive free admission.  Tickets can be purchased at the event beginning at 4:30 p.m. on July 15 and at 8 a.m. on July 16.  Ticket for adults are $5.50 per person for Friday, $8.50 per person for all events on Saturday and $5.50 per person for an evening pass after 5 p.m. on Saturday. For more information on purchasing tickets, call 318-357-4332.