Celebrate the Music of New Orleans is the theme of Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando, and as part of the program, 11 acts from the Big Easy will play jazz, zydeco and blues Saturday nights Feb. 11-April 22.

The project is designed to give the bands, which have appeared in New Orleans' nightclubs, blues cafes and even on street corners, the opportunity to get back on their feet as the city recovers from Hurricane Katrina.

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Universal partnered with Tipitina's Foundation in New Orleans to employ the bands. In addition, Universal will donate $10,000 to the foundation in the bands' names.

Kicking off the program Feb. 11 is creole banjo player Don Vappie, who will be joined by accordion star Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers and Lil' Brian & the Zydeco Travelers.

The event also includes concerts by Hall & Oates; Kid Rock; Bonnie Raitt; George Thorogood & the Destroyers with Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes; Earth, Wind and Fire; Heart; Kool & the Gang; and KC and the Sunshine Band.

The streets of Universal are transformed into a French Quarter courtyard with floats, street performers, stilt walkers and costumed characters.

Mardi Gras packages including accommodations and tickets are available at www.universalorlandovacations.com.