New Orleans Cultural Arts

From majestic performances to simple productions, New Orleans culture scene dazzles and delights

Theater and drama are everyday occurrences in New Orleans, a city where costume closets are a must and dressing up happens on a myriad of occasions. When it comes to more serious theatrical arts, New Orleans boasts impressive firsts, from the first documented performance of opera in America, back in 1796 to the first-ever commercial movie theater, which opened 100 years later on Canal Street.The birthplace of jazz is also home to a world-class philharmonic orchestra, ballet and other dance companies, both touring and locally-produced theater, and a rich array of museums and art exhibitions.  

Theater

New Orleans is home to theater companies big and small, all offering an array of choices all year long. 

Opera

Opera has robust presence in New Orleans with traditional shows and modern twists.

Symphony Orchestra

The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, based in New Orleans and performing throughout the South, carries the torch for live orchestral music in a city long enamored with the musical arts. 

Dance & Ballet

Dance, from ballet to burlesque, is performed at venues all over New Orleans.  Lovers of classic artful adagio can take in ballet presented by the New Orleans Ballet Association, the New…

Literature

From Faulkner whose house is now a bookstore, to Mark Twain and many, many more, New Orleans inspires 

Museums

From Southern Art to World War II to Mardi Gras Indian Culture, New Orleans has some of the most unique museums in the country. Some places take days to explore while others are perfect for…

Art Galleries

New Orleans is a magnet for artists: painter, sculptors, weavers & ceramicists. Shop their works on Julia Street in the Warehouse District or Royal Street in the French Quarter!

Art Markets

Art markets can be found all throughout New Orleans, from the fence surrounding Jackson Square to the co-op markets along Decatur Street. Click here to find dates and locations!

Performing Arts Organizations

A broad spectrum of the performing arts thrive in New Orleans, long considered a cultural mecca with artistic roots dating back to its French founding in 1718. These nonprofits, some small and others large…

Theaters and Performance Spaces

From grand restored Victorian wedding cake theaters such as the Orpheum and the Civic to outdoor spaces like Music Box Village, where interactive music making is the order of the day, the spaces where music…

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