Inside New Orleans ARTS IN MUSEUMS NOLA With so many cultural influences, it’s no wonder that New Orleans is home to a thriving arts scene. From fine art to folk art, discover why the Crescent City is a crossroads for creativity. For an artistic journey around the world, head to the New Orleans Museum of Art . With an impressive 46 galleries, the museum houses paintings, photography and other artworks from American and international cultures. Outside, the museum’s magnificent Besthoff Sculpture Garden contains more than 50 priceless sculptures set on five acres, with modern and contemporary pieces meant to inspire art lovers of all kinds. In the Convention/Warehouse/Arts District, explore the Contemporary Arts Center , a museum that hosts bold experiments in studio and performing arts. Experience exhibitions, shows, educational programs and celebrations year-round in this award-winning, dynamic space. Besthoff Sculpture Garden Performing arts With performances in New Orleans dating back more than 200 years, opera is a long-established tradition in the Crescent City. In fact, the first opera house in the U.S. was located in the French Quarter. Experience this art form for yourself at a performance by the New Orleans Opera Association , the premier presenting organization for opera in the Gulf South. If you’re looking for performances with local flair, catch a show at the Marigny Opera House . This “non-denominational, neighborhood church of the arts” supports the work of local performing artists, such as the Marigny Opera Ballet . See works from New Orleans-based choreographers and composers in this historical setting. Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra Marigny Opera House ©Pompo Bresciani To get a taste of Manhattan without leaving Downtown, just head to the Saenger Theatre for the Broadway in New Orleans theatre series. Tony Award-winning shows, old favorites and newer fare are all on the playbill. And if classical music is your thing, look no further than the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra , the oldest full-time, musician-governed and collaboratively operated orchestra in the United States. The orchestra offers more than 120 performances over its 36-week season, with family-friendly concerts across New Orleans. 44
New Orleans Official Visitors Guide Winter/Spring 2017: Page 44
