Louisiana is home to some of the most iconic and historic theaters and performance venues in the United States. From 19th century opera houses to early 20th century vaudeville and movie palaces, Louisiana’s theaters tell the story of changing entertainment tastes and the growth of communities over decades.
Visiting these venues allows you to imagine the glamour of bygone eras and appreciate the efforts made to preserve them for future generations. Whether you are interested in live theater, musical performances, or stand-up comedy, Louisiana’s historic theaters deliver unique and memorable experiences.
So which theaters and venues should be on your Louisiana bucket list? Here are five of the most famous historic theaters and performance halls in Louisiana that shouldn’t be missed.
The Saenger Theatre – New Orleans
In its early days, the Saenger Theatre hosted both vaudeville shows and new “talkie” motion pictures with sound. During the Great Depression, audiences flocked to the theater for affordable entertainment and escape. Later, the Saenger was the site of glamorous movie premieres.
The Saenger Theatre closed after sustaining damage during Hurricane Katrina but reopened in 2013 after a $53 million restoration. Today, it hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts in an environment rich with history.
Shakespeare Theatre – New Orleans
For decades, it was home to the Shakespeare Theatre Company which staged around 300 productions. Tennessee Williams’ career took off after the 1946 staging of his play The Glass Menagerie here. Many famous actors have graced the stage including Ethel Barrymore, Joseph Cotton, Walter Hampden, and Tallulah Bankhead.
Now known as the Civic Theatre, you can tour the building to admire the architecture and learn about its legacy. It’s a hidden gem for theater enthusiasts visiting New Orleans.
Municipal Auditorium – Shreveport
Home to the legendary Louisiana Hayride radio show in the early days of rock and roll, the Municipal Auditorium in Shreveport has played host to many music greats. Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, and Johnny Cash all performed on the Hayride broadcast from this auditorium in the 1950s, influencing popular music forever.
Built in 1928 in the art deco style, the auditorium held up to 7,800 people. In modern times, its capacity is around 4,000. Restorations and upgrades have been made over the years to preserve its historic character.
Today, the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium continues to host concerts and live events showcasing legends of country, blues, rock, and other genres. Fans of music history should schedule a tour.
Dixie Theatre – Ruston
The Dixie Theatre in Ruston opened in 1930 and remains one of Louisiana’s few surviving movie houses from the early talkie era. The exterior resembles a Spanish Colonial style while the interior transports you back to a 1930s cinema with art deco chandeliers, sconces, and railing details.
As motion picture technology improved in the 1930s and 40s, the theater received updates like new sound systems. The curtain and lighting systems are still functionally intact today. The last film was shown in the 1980s before the building began to deteriorate.
After renovations by the city of Ruston, the Dixie Theatre reopened as a performing arts venue in 2016. It anchors Ruston’s arts district and hosts community theater productions in a setting brimming with nostalgia.
Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts – Hammond
Originally opened in 1928 as a vaudeville venue, the historic Columbia Theatre in Hammond is now a leading performing arts center in southeastern Louisiana. The theater was designed in an eclectic mixed style taking inspiration from Gothic, Moorish, and Roman architecture.
The 1,000 seat theater hosted vaudeville acts in the early years followed by movies and concerts. Famous names who have performed on its stage include Roy Rogers, Patsy Cline, Hank Williams Sr., and The Temptations. After years of decline, the city purchased and renovated the theater in the 1990s.
Today, the Columbia Theatre is home to theatrical performances, concerts, local art shows, and community events. It stands as a grand Hammond landmark and provides an elegant space to enjoy the arts.
Discover the Glamour of Bygone Eras
Stepping inside one of Louisiana’s historic theaters allows you to imagine previous generations dressing up for a night’s entertainment before the age of television and streaming services. Their preserved architecture and decor transport you back in time.
Many famous names who shaped both theater and music got their start on stages in Louisiana like Tennessee Williams, Elvis Presley, and Jefferson “Jivin'” Dees of the original Louisiana Hayride cast. The theaters tell an important story about American entertainment in the 20th century.
In New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Ruston, and beyond, make time to see a show or tour Louisiana’s historic theaters and performance halls. Admire the restored architecture and learn about their illustrious pasts. Discovering their unique histories and charm is a treat for both residents and visitors.
Plan Your Visit to Louisiana’s Historic Theaters
If you want to experience Louisiana’s famous historic theaters for yourself, use this list below to start planning your itinerary:
The Saenger Theatre – New Orleans
- Location: 1111 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Book Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts on their website.
- Free tours are offered at 10:30am on the third Tuesday of each month.
- Self-guided tour pamphlets are available in the lobby.
Shakespeare Theatre – New Orleans
- Location: 616 St Peter St, New Orleans, LA 70116
- Schedule theater tours through the Civic Theatre.
- Check event listings for film screenings and live performances.
Municipal Auditorium – Shreveport
- Location: 705 Elvis Presley Ave, Shreveport, LA 71101
- Book concert tickets and event listings on their website.
- Free self-guided tours are available weekdays 8am-5pm based on staff availability.
Dixie Theatre – Ruston
- Location: 401 N Trenton St, Ruston, LA 71270
- Find upcoming shows and productions on their site.
- Take a backstage tour by emailing contact@dixietheatre.org to arrange a time.
Columbia Theatre – Hammond
- Location: 220 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
- Check their event calendar for performances.
- Schedule a tour through their website or by calling (985) 543-4371.
Immerse yourself in Louisiana’s entertainment history by visiting these spectacular venues. Have you been to any famous historic theaters in Louisiana? Share your experiences in the comments below!
