Bette Davis served the desserts. Marlene Dietrich and Lauren Bacall danced the night away. Red Skelton told the jokes and Bing Crosby crooned. The place was The Stage Door Canteen and the guests were the steady stream of GIs headed off to war. Many were leaving home for the first time and the Canteens offered a welcome opportunity to forget, if only for a night, their fears and anxieties.
The National World War II Museum in New Orleans is honoring this memorable war-time tradition with the creation of our very own Stage Door Canteen and signature live musical. Opening November 6, 2009, the Museum’s Stage Door Canteen will be a lively venue and popular destination for great dining and entertainment.
Weekends will showcase the exciting new theatrical offering: Let Freedom Swing!, sure to delight all generations. Be among the first to see this spirited musical production showcasing such classics as In the Mood, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, I’ll Be Seeing You, Jukebox Saturday Night and more! The first performance is Friday, November 13 and showtimes are Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees. Enjoy pre-show dinner or brunch by Chef John Besh and The American Sector, and watch for other upcoming live entertainment including jazz nights, swing dancing, comedy and more.
During the day, Museum visitors will enjoy a short film presentation of the stars and great performances from the era. And, with it all, the opportunity to experience the imaginative menu Chef John Besh has created for The American Sector restaurant right next door.
