artiste Nov/Dec | Page 7

Martinville. At the street level, the Opera

House housed a feed and tack store, while

the second floor hosted Mardi Gras balls

and traveling operas from New Orleans for

half a century. For about 80 years, The

Duchamp Opera House was a department

store owned by the Bienvenu family from

1928-1994. It sold upscale hats and suits

made in New Orleans. In 1998, the

building was gifted to the city of St.

Martinville its restoration was completed

in 2000. The downstairs is a gallery for

local artist, while the upstairs is used by

local theatre groups and for public and

private events. It seats about 120 people. So whether you are into art, antiques,

theatre or the spirits and culture of the families that have graced this building

before us, it is imperative that you visit The Duchamp Opera House. Open Mon- Sat 10am-5pm or visit www.evangelineplayers.com

Longfellow's Evangeline

Longfello

Long

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