Going to the movies or a nightclub is entertaining, but sometimes one has a taste for a more cultural experience.
For fans of the performing arts, this city has a variety of attractions to satisfy that appetite.
Baton Rouge and its surrounding areas have many community theaters where students can see plays come to life under the lights of the stage.
Although some theaters are nearing the end of their spring performances, students still can catch the remaining shows and anticipate the next season.
Now playing at the Baton Rouge Little Theater until April 6 is a musical set in the 1950s called “The Taffetas.” The story revolves around four girls from Muncie, Ind., struggling to make it in the music business.
“We’ve had a great turnout so far,” said Christina Barbara, BRLT secretary. “Our total seating is 378. This whole week we’ll probably sell out.”
BRLT, located at 7155 Florida Boulevard near Lobdell Street, attracts audiences of various ages from senior citizens to young children, Barbara said.
On Thursdays and Sundays, students can purchase tickets for just $10, which is half off the regular rate.
“The Taffetas” is a show that everyone should see, she said. “It’s something we all kind of need right now,” Barbara said. “It’s a chance to relax and get lost in another era.”
In May, theater fans can look forward to Del Shore’s “Daddy’s Dyin’ Who’s Got the Will?”
This comedy about one family’s quest for an oil-rich Texan’s inheritance packs a life lesson for its audiences.
The show begins May 9. Tickets go on sale April 6.
Baker, just north of Baton Rouge also has a community theater called the Baker Little Theatre, located at 3121 Van Buren St.
Comedy fans may enjoy BLT’s current production “Belles” written by Mark Dunn.
The story is of the six dysfunctional Walker sisters from Memphis who return home to visit their mother in the hospital after she ate some bad tuna.
The production, directed by June Carter, opened March 21 and will continue until April 5. Friday and Saturday performances start at 8 p.m. with Saturday matinees at 2 p.m. Adult tickets are $10, but students pay only $7.
Baker Little Theatre literally is little, housing only about 120 seats, said Jan Lamonte, BLT box office attendant.
However, they have been able to accommodate all their patrons.
“We’ve had full houses, but it’s worked out so far,” she said.
Students willing to drive to Gonzales can experience Ascension Community Theatre and its upcoming production of “You Can’t Take It With You.” This comedy, directed by Ami Clouatre, opened March 27 and runs until April 5. Thursday, Friday and Saturday night performances start at 7 p.m.
Each show will take place at the Pasqua Theater at 823 Felicity Street in Gonzales.
The next A.C.T. Production will be in July when “Grease” takes the stage from July 17 to July 26.
However, performing arts is not just acting. If Baton Rouge’s little pieces of Broadway are not enough culture for those who seek it, the Baton Rouge Symphony offers classical music from around the globe.
The BRSO will conclude its 54th season of the Entergy Masterworks Series next month on Thursday, April 10 featuring violinist Charles Castleman, playing Stravinsky’s music inspired in Russia and France.
“I believe that hearing great music, performed with the intensity and passion of the BRSO musicians is the perfect way to recharge yourself and find inspiration,” said Timothy Muffitt, BRSO music director. “The residents of this community have a unique opportunity to escape, through inspiring classical music, into a world of beauty and passion,” he said.
The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Centroplex Theatre.
Single tickets range from $15 to $39. Students can purchase tickets one-half hour before the concert begins for only $10 by showing a valid student ID.
However, these tickets are only offered on an as-available basis.
Students interested in finding out more about future performing arts events and other culture-filled happenings in the capitol city can check out www.artsbr.com.