Zeitgeist is more than just a name. It embodies the spirit of the times. Here at 6621 St. Claude Avenue in Arabi Louisiana stands Zeitgeist Theatre and Lounge. It’s a multi-disciplinary arts center that has been a cultural beacon since November 1986.
Zeitgeist Theatre Experiments Inc is a non-profit organization. It is classified as a public charity. This art house cinema offers something for and against everybody. Zeitgeist is an all-ages and smoke-free venue.
Originally located in New Orleans the Zeitgeist moved. It found a new home in the Old Arabi Cultural Arts District. This move allowed for expanded programming and more diverse events.
The new venue boasts ample parking. It features a 75-seat black box theater and a 50-seat lounge. The magnificent cocktail lounge was elegantly designed. The Meraux Foundation developed it.
The building has an illustrious past. It was once the Joy Lounge one of Louisiana’s first black music clubs. Later it became Buster’s Bar and Lounge. For decades it inexplicably served as a pawnshop and a Carnival Mart.
Zeitgeist is known for its alternative films. It also shows filmmakers creative music theater performance spoken word visual art dance burlesque and community events. It truly offers something for everyone.
In 1989 Zeitgeist curated a city-wide film series. It was called BEUYS AND BEYOND CONTEMPORARY GERMAN ARTISTS ON FILM. This series featured artist talks and performances by area artists. Zeitgeist resurrected the series. It expanded to include artists beyond just Germany.
Since 1993 Zeitgeist has hosted a series of films music performances and visual art. It celebrates innovative and bizarre work from Canada. They believe that their films may be smaller but at least their country is bigger. Size does matter.
Zeitgeist is equipped with a new Dolby sound system. They installed 3 UV air-scrubbers in their ventilation system. Your safety and enjoyment are their priorities.
Zeitgeist celebrated its 32nd Anniversary in November. For 19 years it brought incredible programming to Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. It was an intricate part of the street’s rebirth.
Memberships and donations can be made at the Zeitgeist Box Office. You can also support them through their website. They also accept PayPal Zelle and Venmo.
Special thanks go to the Meraux Foundation and others. They couldn’t have dreamed of a better venue or neighbors.
Zeitgeist acknowledges the indigenous history of New Orleans and Louisiana. They recognize the Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana and other tribes.
Zeitgeist will celebrate its 38th Anniversary in November. They want to thank all the artists volunteers organizations members donors and patrons who have kept them going. They’ve come a long way.