The Orpheum Theater New Orleans

The Orpheum Theater is a century-old, world-class performing arts and events venue located in the heart of the Central Business District. This iconic space draws globally appealing events to a local stage, including symphonies by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, performances by Platinum artists, all night concerts after Jazz Fest, and movie premieres of Oscar-award-winning films for Best Picture. Its vertical hall design, one of the few remaining in the U.S., provides an acoustical and visual experience second to none. Recent renovations led to the installation of an adjustable orchestra floor, enabling the Orpheum to host private events on the same stage as world-renowned entertainers. Throughout the year, the Orpheum Theater welcomes weddings, Mardi Gras balls, corporate events, and business meetings to its halls, ensuring every guest can experience the aura of center stage under the spotlight.

History

The Orpheum Theater opened on February 7, 1921 as one of the grandest vaudeville showplaces in the U.S. As entertainment evolved from vaudeville, so did the theater, becoming a “movie palace” and subsequently a performance hall. Undergoing multiple rounds of renovations and changes in ownership, the Orpheum eventually went into a decade-long period of hibernation, after Hurricane Katrina caused it damage and flooding. Under the new ownership of Eric George, MD, the theater underwent a full renovation and reopened in August 2015. Today’s Orpheum showcases the ornate and opulent architecture of the original Orpheum, including its terra cotta columns and ceiling, as well as plaster decorations on the stage proscenium and seating areas—all restored and in some cases repainted by hand. The theater also boasts a wealth of modern enhancements, including its audio and visual capabilities, adjustable orchestra floor, 10 bars, upgraded restrooms and common areas, as well as building systems.