A beautiful celebration of Black musical legacy is taking center stage in New Orleans this August. Belle Noire, an immersive theatrical concert honoring the pioneering voices of early jazz and swing-era songstresses, will debut at Ashé Powerhouse Theater on Saturday, August 9 at 7:00 PM, with a second performance on Sunday, August 10 at 3:00 PM.
Conceived by New Orleans native and powerhouse vocalist Kayla Lewis, Belle Noire reimagines the glamour and grit of performers like Lena Horne, Billie Holiday, Eartha Kitt, and Dorothy Dandridge. Rather than replicate the icons of the past, Lewis and her collaborators present a bold reinterpretation—infusing vintage stylings with modern cinematic flair, tap dance, lush visuals, and live jazz. The result is a production that pays homage while pushing boundaries.
Described as part cabaret, part immersive theater, Belle Noire features an all-star cast of performers from New Orleans and New York, including renowned NYC bandleader Dandy Wellington. For Lewis, the show is also a family affair. Sharing the stage with her will be a multigenerational ensemble of relatives, including her father, veteran jazz bassist Kerry Lewis Sr., as well as her brothers, uncles, and cousins.
Beyond the music and glamour, Belle Noire also uplifts local arts education. Thirty percent of all ticket proceeds will benefit two key New Orleans nonprofits: the Second Line Arts Collective, which mentors young jazz musicians, and the New Orleans Dance Collective, which teaches tap to local youth. Both organizations have helped shape the show’s vision, grounding its artistry in community values.
Tickets for Belle Noire are available now at bellenoireshow.com, with a $10 early bird discount available through July 15.
As New Orleans continues to celebrate and reinterpret its cultural roots, Belle Noire stands out as a striking tribute to the Black women whose voices helped shape American music—brought to life by a new generation keeping that flame burning bright.
