The Crescent City's Queer Pulse: New Orleans' Entertainment Scene Beats Strong!

By Josh Menghi Y'all, I've got a confession to make: New Orleans is my spirit city! There's something about the Big Easy that gets me moving – whether it's the infectious energy of Bourbon Street, the soulful rhythms of jazz on Frenchmen, or the unapologetic revelry at queer clubs like the infamous Oz. As someone who's spent countless nights dancing under the stars and laughing with friends in the City That Care Forgot, I'm here to give you the lowdown on what makes NOLA's entertainment scene so electric. First off, let's talk about music – and not just any music, but the kind that'll make your hips sway and your heart sing! From Preservation Hall Jazz Band to Galactic, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and of course, the legendary Rebirth Brass Band, New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz (and yes, we're proud of it!). But you don't have to be a traditionalist to groove – our city's also home to an incredible array of genres: zydeco, Cajun, blues, gospel, and more. When the sun dips below the Mississippi River, the soundscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of beats, from the smooth crooning of the Spotted Cat Music Club to the high-energy electronic sets at the Howlin' Wolf. Now, let's get to the clubs – and trust me, you won't find any cookie-cutter scenes here! From the iconic Oz (yes, that Oz!) to the edgy, avant-garde vibe at the AllWays Lounge, our queer community knows how to throw a party. You'll also find top-notch drag shows at the famous Pearl River Resort and casino, where queens like Naomi Fontaine and Kiki Maroon serve face and slay the game. And don't even get me started on the after-parties – or should I say, the "after-after-parties"? When the clock strikes 3 a.m., you can bet your sweet bippy that we're still going strong! But entertainment isn't just about dancing the night away (although, let's be real, that's a big part of it!). New Orleans is also home to an incredible array of theater and performance arts. The NOLA Project's innovative productions, like their annual Shakespeare in the Park series, bring classic tales to life with a distinctly Crescent City flair. Meanwhile, companies like the New Orleans Ballet Association and the New Orleans Opera Association bring world-class performances to the stages of the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. Last but certainly not least, let's give some love to our beloved festivals! Mardi Gras, of course, is the granddaddy of them all – a 10-day extravaganza of parades, parties, and pure pandemonium. But did you know that our city also hosts the annual French Quarter Festival, celebrating local music and heritage? Or the Satchmo SummerFest, honoring the legacy of Louis Armstrong and his iconic jazz? And let's not forget the Southern Decadence celebration, a beloved tradition that brings together thousands of LGBTQ+ revelers for a weekend of fun, food, and (of course) dancing! So there you have it – my ode to the entertainment scene in New Orleans! Whether you're a party animal or a cultural connoisseur, our city has something for everyone. So come on down, y'all – let's get this Crescent City party started!