The Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, located on Basin Street in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a premier venue that hosts a variety of performances, from opera and ballet to concerts and theater productions. Named after the legendary gosp... read moreel singer Mahalia Jackson, this theater celebrates her lasting impact on music and civil rights. Situated within the culturally significant Louis Armstrong Park, it stands as a symbol of New Orleans’ dedication to preserving its artistic heritage.

Originally opened in 1973 as the New Orleans Theater for the Performing Arts, the venue was renamed in 1993 to honor Jackson's contributions. After suffering extensive damage during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the theater underwent a $27 million renovation to modernize its facilities while retaining its historic charm, reopening in 2009. These renovations restored the theater as a major cultural hub, blending contemporary enhancements with the theater’s original architectural beauty.

Today, the Mahalia Jackson Theater serves as the home for organizations like the New Orleans Ballet Association and the New Orleans Opera Association. With a seating capacity of about 2,100, the theater provides an intimate yet grand setting for world-class performances. Its location within Louis Armstrong Park places it amidst other historic landmarks, making it a key site for celebrating New Orleans' rich musical and cultural traditions.