Spotlight on Southwest Louisiana: Must-See Performing Arts Events
Southwest Louisiana hosts a thriving performing arts community, blending innovative contemporary productions with beloved classics across intimate theaters and grand venues. From hilarious musical comedies to immersive dinner theater, discover shows that will captivate audiences. Explore these upcoming 2016 events featuring Southwest Louisiana's top talent. Note: Dates reflect 2016 listings; for current events, visit www.VisitLakeCharles.org/events.
September 9-25, 2016: Nunsense II – The Second Coming, Lake Charles Little Theatre
Lake Charles Little Theatre launches its 90th season with this sequel to last year's hit Nunsense Amen. The nuns return for a polished 'thank-you' performance, but chaos ensues with Franciscan visitors and a talent scout in the audience. Expect bingo hilarity and a rousing finale. Tickets: $10-$20 at www.thelclt.com.
September 22-25, 2016: 4000 Days, KC Productions, Central School Arts & Humanities Center
KC Productions debuts 4000 Days starring Joey Boyette, Jonathan Richards, and Kelly Rowland. What happens when a man forgets a decade after a coma? Tension brews between his mother and partner. General admission: $20. Tickets: (337) 302-2259 or www.KCProductionsSWLA.yapsody.com.
September 23 – October 2, 2016: Steel Magnolias, ACTS Theatre
ACTS Theatre opens its 50th season with Robert Harling's Steel Magnolias at Truvy's salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana. Directed by Walt Kiser. Shows: Sep 23/24/30 & Oct 1 at 7:30pm; Sep 25 & Oct 2 at 3pm. Tickets: $20 adults, $15 seniors (65+), $10 students. Buy at www.actstheatre.com, box office, or select locations. Info: (337) 433-2287.
September 28 – October 2, 2016: “Lizard” by Dennis Covington, McNeese Performing Arts, Tritico Theatre
This coming-of-age tale follows deformed teen Lucius 'Lizard' Sims, exploring family bonds and inner strength amid judgment. Set in Southwest Louisiana and Birmingham, AL, summer 1976. Tickets: $15 adults, $10 faculty/staff/seniors/youth/teachers, free McNeese students. Info: (337) 475-5040.
October 2, 2016: Sax in the City, Lake Charles Civic Center
Featuring sax stars like Marcus Davis, JB Saax, Alex Allen, Merlon Devine, and Jairus Daigle. Includes local art gallery. Dinner 5:30pm, concert 7pm. Tickets: $15-$30 at www.TicketMaster.com, Swicegood Music, or Bearden’s Music.
October 9, 2016: Lake Charles Symphony – Concert 1 of the Classical Concert Series, Rosa Hart Theatre
Side-by-side with Francis G. Bulber Youth Orchestra: Peter and the Wolf and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7. 3pm start. Tickets: $20-$25 at www.lcsymphony.com.
October 21 & 23, 2016: Louisiana Choral Foundation Fall Concerts: English Roses and American Beauties, University United Methodist Church
In its 40th season, Masterworks Chorale performs Dan Forrest’s Requiem for the Living and Mack Wilberg’s Four American Folk Hymns. Info: www.lachoral.org or la2choral6@gmail.com.
October 27 – 29, 2016: The Rocky Horror Show, KC Productions, Central School Arts & Humanities Center
Cult Halloween classic returns! Performances: Oct 27/28/29 at 7:30pm + midnight Oct 29. Details: www.KCProductionsSWLA.org.
November 4 – 20, 2016: Sherlock’s Last Case, Lake Charles Little Theatre
Charles Marowitz’s twist on Holmes: A death threat from Moriarty’s son, warned by his daughter. Humor, suspense, shocking end. Tickets: $10-$15 at www.thelclt.com.
November 12, 2016: Freddie Pate Jamboree – Musical Performance, Mines Theatre
18+ years of family fun: Country hits, 10-piece band, comedy. Tickets from Oct 1 at www.theminestheatre.org.
November 17, 2016: Westlake High Theatre: From Poe to Pig
Poe-inspired spoof on 12 Angry Men with pigs judging the Big Bad Wolf. Directed by Kerry A. Onxley. School show 10am, public 7pm. $7 tickets: (337) 217-4950 or at door.
November 26, 2016: Swamps, Savoies & Santa: Interactive Dinner Theatre, The Mines Theatre
Hilarious swamp mystery with ghosts, suitors, and Santa search. 6:30pm show includes meal. Tickets from Oct 25 at www.theminestheatre.org.
For more details and full event listings, visit www.VisitLakeCharles.org/events.
