522. Charlotte Bentley, part 2.

522. Part 2 of our conversation with Charlotte Bentley about New Orleans French opera. "New Orleans and the Creation of Transatlantic Opera, 1819–1859 explores the thriving operatic life of New Orleans in the first half of the nineteenth century, drawing out the transatlantic connections that animated it. .. This book pieces together what it took to bring opera to New Orleans and the ways in which the city’s operatic life shaped contemporary perceptions of global interconnection. The early chapters explore the process of bringing opera to the stage, taking a detailed look at the management of New Orleans’s Francophone theater, the Théâtre d’Orléans, as well as the performers who came to the city and the reception they received. But opera’s significance was not confined to the theater, and later chapters of the book examine how opera permeated everyday life in New Orleans, through popular sheet music, novels, magazines and visual culture, and dancing in its many ballrooms. Just as New Orleans helped to create transatlantic opera, opera in turn helped to create the city of New Orleans."

1. This week in Louisiana history. May 12, 1898. New constitution includes the "Grandfather Clause" to permit illiterate whites to vote; a poll tax and literacy test included to disqualify black voters.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Jazzland Opens May 20, 2000. The Jazzland Theme Park was an entertainment retail, and amusement complex. The park features a variety of entertainment opportunities designed to convey the elements of New Orleans’ rich culture and history. In addition to the economic benefits mentioned Jazzland Theme Park will assist the City in achieving its goal of diversifying the image of New Orleans as an “adult tourist” City into more of a “family tourist” destination. Jazzland had 1 million visitors in the first year of operation". 
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Louisiana Peach Festival
   June 3, 2023
   Come discover the homegrown flavors, art, music, and culture of Ruston, LA at the 73rd Annual Louisiana Peach Festival featuring 12+ hours of live music, a juried arts market, food vendors, kids’ activities, and more peachy fun in the heart of charming Downtown Ruston.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. ET on trumpet with the New Birth Brass Band in Jackson Square playing "When You're Smiling."

Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Google Podcasts.
Listen on Spotify.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on TuneIn.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.