All the World’s Stages: From Opera Houses to Concert Saloons in Old New Orleans

New Orleans and New Orleanians have long loved performance. Home of the first European opera performances in the Americas, New Orleans, in the 19th century, boasted theatres for all and sundry, from highbrow classical works to concert saloons where entertainment was inexpensive but no less engaging for it. No matter your race or class, New Orleans offered entertainment for you.

In a lecture held at the Gallier Historic Houses this evening, Tulane professor Victor Holtcamp will explore the history of theatre and performance in old New Orleans, primarily in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and, in particular, will examine the ways race and class rules were alternately subverted and reinforced in the performance venues of the city. 5:30 pm–7 pm. $10; $12 at the door; $10 for members. hgghh.org.