"Dancing in the Streets" exhibition tour

On view through June 13, 2021, the exhibition "Dancing in the Streets: Social Aid and Pleasure Clubs of New Orleans" brings together historical photographs and archival footage by Jules Cahn and Michael P. Smith from The Historic New Orleans Collection with contemporary objects collected by the late Sylvester Francis of the Backstreet Cultural Museum and by the late Ronald W. Lewis of the House of Dance and Feathers, as well as from individual club members. Parade regalia—from full suits to elaborate baskets and fans—gives viewers an up-close look at the unique artistry of second line parades. This artistry is vividly on display in the work of 12 contemporary photographers included in the exhibition: Judy Cooper, Brad Edelman, L. J. Goldstein, Ryan Hodgson-Rigsbee, Pableaux Johnson, Charles Muir Lovell, MJ Mastrogiovanni, Leslie Parr, Akasha Rabut, Vincent Simmons, J. R. Thomason, and Eric Waters. A companion audio guide, created in collaboration with the Neighborhood Story Project, features interviews with club members discussing the objects on display. Join co-creator Eric Seiferth for a walk-through tour of the exhibition then make your plans to see it in person: wwwhnoc.org/secondline #THNOCSecondLine

Added 21 Jun 2026