Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the iconic Saenger Theatre is a 2,600-seat theatre dating back to 1927. Despite suffering damage from neglect and Hurricane Katrina, this beloved theatre has seen a revival thanks to expert restorations and renovations, and is now one of the best places in New Orleans to catch both local and Broadway shows.
The Saenger Theatre has a wide range of shows, from “ELF The Musical” and “Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker” to “Les Miserables” and “The Book of Mormon”. You can also see comedy and live music performances, with the theatre having hosted Jerry Seinfeld, Weird Al Yankovic and Nine Inch Nails.
During the show, don’t forget to admire the heritage architecture and grand 2,000-pipe theatre organ. The Saenger Theatre’s central location makes it easy to combine it with a visit to the nearby Museum of Death or Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture. You can also grab a pre-show meal at Deanie's Seafood Restaurant in the French Quarter.
Getting around Saenger Theatre
The Saenger Theatre is located on the edge of the French Quarter in New Orleans, a short walk from numerous light rail stops along Canal Street. There are also many bus stops nearby, while Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is 25 minutes’ drive away.