The Performing Arts

Opera -- It wasn't until 1943 that the New Orleans Opera Association (tel. 504/529-2278; www.neworleansopera.org) was formed. They present several operas a season. Stars from New York's Metropolitan Opera Company frequently appear in leading roles, supported by talented local voices. The Met's touring company occasionally performs here, too. For most performances, seats start at $30.

Dance -- The New Orleans Ballet Association (tel. 504/522-0996; www.nobadance.com) presents excellent dance programs and runs a much-lauded educational program. Visiting dance companies, including some top names, perform regularly. Check the newspapers for current performances. The ballet's season generally runs from September through April, though offerings have been more limited since Katrina.

Classical Music -- The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (tel. 504/523-6530; www.lpomusic.com) plays a subscription series of concerts during the fall-to-spring season and offers pops concerts on weekends in June and July; tickets start at $11. Performances take place at various locales ranging from a church to halls at Loyola and Tulane to the convention center.