Just as New Orleans’ ghosts reawaken for Halloween, the city’s performing arts scene is finally rising from its languid summer slumber — just in time for Tulane students to enjoy new performances. Whether or not you are involved in the arts on campus, attending these shows is a great way to explore the city and interact with some of its foremost creative forces. 

Here are some of the coming attractions in the New Orleans’ theater and dance scene:

“The Seagull; Or, How to Eat It”

Besthoff Sculpture Garden; Oct. 12-30

In this new play written by NOLA Project member Gab Reisman, Anton Chekhov’s classic play is given a New Orleanian makeover. Much like the opening scene of the original play, “The Seagull; Or, How to Eat It” will take place outdoors against the backdrop of a lake at sunset. Tickets are available for purchase here.

“Requiem for a Stranger”

Contemporary Arts Center Black Box Theater; Oct. 14-16

Created in collaboration between the association of physical theater artists Vagabond Inventions and singer Renee Benson, “Requiem for a Stranger” is an act of theater that defies definition. This episodic, ensemble-devised work explores the complex internal realm of grief, drawing inspiration from poetry, healing practices and the personal experiences of the performers from the COVID-19 pandemic. Tickets are available for purchase here. 

“Fantômes”

Marigny Opera House; Oct. 14-16

In Mélange Dance Company’s newest production, the ghosts of lost brides, civil war soldiers and red light girls are reincarnated through contemporary dance while their stories are set to live jazz music. The atmosphere of the historic Marigny Opera House adds to the haunting feel of this performance. Tickets are available for purchase here. 

“The Play That Goes Wrong”

Le Petit Theatre; Oct. 20 – Nov. 6

Hardly ever has a title been more accurately descriptive. “The Play That Goes Wrong” is a metatheatrical farce in which a troupe of accident-prone thespians attempt to put on a 1920s murder mystery play. Lines are forgotten, props are misplaced and set pieces unexpectedly collapse as the actors desperately try to make it to the end of their show. Tickets are available for purchase here.

“The Family Line”

Historic BK House and Gardens; Oct. 21 – Nov. 20

Explore the Historic BK House and Gardens through this original, immersive performance by Goat in the Road Productions. “The Family Line” brings to life the story of the house and the 1892 General Strike, the first biracial general strike in U.S. history. Audience members can follow the characters and plot lines they choose through the house, discovering the property and the history surrounding it simultaneously. Tickets are available for purchase here. 

Kyiv City Ballet’s “A Tribute to Peace”

Mahalia Jackson Theater; Oct. 22

This program of works by Ukrainian choreographers, including both folk dance and classical ballet, demonstrates Ukraine’s rich culture and the resilience of its people. In a time of such adversity, these dancers voice their resistance by bringing joy to audiences worldwide. For one night only, witness one of the company’s first performances in the United States. Tickets are available for purchase here.