Carnival season has officially kicked off in New Orleans, but there is still plenty to do before parades take over the city. This weekend, enjoy a Mardi Gras exhibit, a Broadway performance, the Saints playoff game, and more. Les Misérables comes to the Saenger Theater for eight performances throughout the weekend. The Historic New Orleans Collection will open an exhibit on the history of Mardi Gras, and Second Story Gallery will hold a reception for the extension of two exhibits, Michael Alford: Another Given Day In The Big Easy, and Charles Lovell: New Orleans Second Line Traditions. Hear classical music with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, or see a classic Shakespeare play with a one-night-only performance. You won’t want to miss this weekend in NOLA.
ALL WEEKEND
Les Misérables – Broadway in New Orleans brings this musical to town Jan. 8-13. Les Misérables tells the story of ex-convict Jean Valjean in his quest for redemption in 19th century France. All performances will be held at the Saenger Theater. Tickets start at $30.
Rites, Rituals, and Revelry: The History of Mardi Gras in New Orleans – From Jan. 6 to March 1, enjoy this exhibit on the history of Mardi Gras at the Historic New Orleans Collection. A tour through the exhibit takes you through the city’s traditions from the beginning of Mardi Gras in New Orleans to present day celebrations. Tours are held from Tuesday – Sunday and admission is $5.
FRIDAY
Macbeth – The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane brings the story of Macbeth to life in this production. Though most of the performances are limited to school groups, there will be a one-night only public performance on Jan. 11. Don’t miss your chance to see it this year. Tickets start at $25.
SATURDAY
St. Claude Arts District Second Saturdays – This Saturday, enjoy the extension of two exhibitions in the Bywater. Michael Alford: Another Given Day In The Big Easy, and Charles Lovell: New Orleans Second Line Traditions will be on view at Second Story Gallery (2372 St. Claude Ave.) with a special reception from 6-9:30 p.m. Saturday. The exhibitions continues through Feb. 2, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily with free admission.
SUNDAY
Saints vs. Eagles – If you do anything in NOLA this Sunday, you’ll want it to include watching the Saints take on the Eagles in their first divisional playoff game (3:40 p.m. CT). You don’t have to head to the Dome to celebrate – there are playoff parties happening all around town. Catch them here.
LAGNIAPPE
Scheherazade with Sheku Kanneh-Mason – BBC Young Musician of the Year, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, brings his talent to New Orleans with two nights of music at the Orpheum Theater on Jan. 10 and 12. The young cellist was the first black musician to win the BBC Young Musician of the Year Award in 2016 and is most recognizable from his performance at the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Relive the magic as the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra joins him in concert. Tickets start at $20.
