Photo by David NOLA Photography.
Saenger Theatre
(Scrim’s Stop #6)
- Address: 1111 Canal Street
- Website: saengernola.com
- Construction Date: 1926
- Building Name: Saenger Theater
- Architect: Emile Weil
- Landmark Status: Designated
Artist & Installation Details
- Artist Name: Jacques Francois
(photo by Avery Leigh White) - Artwork Title: It’s a Starry Night at the Saenger
- Art Consulting, Concept, Creative Direction: Where y’Art Works
- Scrim and the Canal Street Menagerie Story: Where y’Art works
Narrated by Ivan Neville
As Scrim approached the historic theatre, he was greeted by a voice from the marquee above. It was Patch, the mini police horse, proudly wearing a hat tilted to one side.
“Ah, Scrim!” Patch neighed. “Welcome to the Grand Canal! Did you know this street was once called the ‘Champs-Élysées of New Orleans’? It was famous for its grand theaters and fine shops, a place where people came from all over to experience the city at its best.”
Scrim’s ears perked up as Patch continued, “Canal Street has seen many changes over the years, my friend. But no matter what, it’s always been the heart of New Orleans.”
Scrim gazed up at the stars, seeing images of Elizabeth Taylor, Louis Armstrong, Big Freedia, and Fats Domino with their pets, wondering if he, too, belonged among such remarkable figures.
Patch, noticing Scrim’s look, nudged him gently.
“You don’t have to be famous to be a star,” he said. “We’re all part of the 200 billion trillion stars in the sky… each of us with our own light to shine.”
With a smile, Patch added, “You always have a place here with us, Scrim. Come back anytime.”
A Glimpse Into The Past
The Saenger Theatre opened its doors on February 4, 1927, after three years of construction, at a cost of $2.5 million. The grand opening prompted thousands of people to parade down Canal Street in celebration. At that time, the highest ticket price was 65 cents, and each performance included a silent movie, a stage play produced by the Paramount-Publix Corporation, and music from the Saenger Grand Orchestra.
What’s Happening Now
The Saenger Theatre continues to be a cultural landmark in New Orleans, offering a variety of live performances, Broadway shows, concerts, and special events. As a restored and modernized venue, it now features state-of-the-art amenities while preserving its historical charm. Coming up this season, theater goers can expect: Hamilton, Weird Al Yankovic, The Wiz and so many other spectacular others.
Did You Know?
Once the flagship of Julian and Abe Saenger’s theatre empire, the Saenger Theater stands as one of the last remaining Saenger movie palaces.
Want to learn more?
Visit the Historic New Orleans Collection’s Vieux Carre Survey