NEW ORLEANS – Old-style Beaux Arts craftsmanship meets modern amenities as a legend returns to New Orleans.
The historic Orpheum Theater has opened its doors again after a 10-year hiatus, due to devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, with a selection of confirmed music, comedy and dance acts including Wilco, Dwight Yoakam, the Paul Taylor Modern Dance Company and more.
Purchased in 2014 by Roland and Mary Von Kurnatowski, owners and founders of Tipitina's and the Tipitina's Foundation, along with business partner Dr. Eric George, The Orpheum will again provide New Orleanians with familiar classic performances while introducing new and exciting genres to those seeking a unique experience. With a full renovation, this classic space will open once more to the arts-loving public as a fully restored and luxurious entertainment space.
The Orpheum is a nearly century-old Beaux Arts theater located in the heart of New Orleans’ Central Business District. Built in 1918, the iconic space—which is one of the few remaining vertical hall designs in the U.S.—has hosted vaudeville acts, films and countless performances by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. But its halls have sat dormant since 2005, when failed levees ushered Hurricane Katrina floodwaters throughout the building’s lower reaches.
The historical and reimagined space boasts impeccable acoustics, said to rival that of Carnegie Hall, six bars throughout the space with a craft cocktail program created by T. Cole Newton of Twelve Mile Limit and Bella Luna Catering serving up concessions for every show.
Key renovation and restoration highlights include:
• The theater’s seating capacity of 1,488.
• The paint color scheme is now precisely as it was in 1921. The terra cotta ceiling in the lobby as well as the ornate plasterwork throughout the space were all restored by hand.
• An adjustable orchestra floor was added, which includes removable seating that allows for shifting floor plans, seated dinners and more.
• State-of-the-art audio and lighting systems have been installed throughout to complement The Orpheum’s original acoustic layout.
• The Orpheum was one of the first theaters in the American south to have an elevator, which has now been fully restored.
• The theater’s dressing rooms and green rooms are now immaculately appointed and include full bathrooms, and a full kitchen has been added in the basement level. Two new VIP areas on the Gallery Level were added for an even more luxurious seating option.
• Six permanent bars have been built throughout the space, ensuring ideal crowd flow. Additional restrooms were also added to the first floor.
The Orpheum Theater’s initial lineup includes:
• Monday, September 28, 2015: Wilco
• Saturday, October 10, 2015: Dwight Yoakam
• Saturday, May 21, 2016: Paul Taylor Modern Dance Company
