The Shaw Center for the Arts is Baton Rouge’s all-encompassing cultural center for art, entertainment and food. The center offers a platform for artists, groups, students and tourists to create and be part of wide-ranging performing and visual arts experiences. The Shaw Center for the Arts has art schools, galleries, theaters and restaurants, all sharing a contemporary space close to the eastern banks of the Mississippi River.
Visit permanent and temporary exhibitions at the center’s galleries, which showcase works by local and international artists. Both galleries are factions of the Louisiana State University. The Museum of Art has a collection of over 6,500 objects, including British portraiture, Chinese jade carvings and Newcomb College Pottery. Browse experimental displays designed to excite, intrigue and provoke reactions at the Glassell Gallery.
Choose from an eclectic agenda of events put on by various theater companies at the Manship Theater. The New Venture Theater puts on productions by theatrical communities from all backgrounds and levels of society. Hartley-Vey Theaters welcomes well-known acts such as Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears.
Get hands-on and live out your theatrical dreams at the center’s non-profit schools. You’ll find activities and workshops to encourage the artistic talents of all ages.
Take a break at the selection of cafés and restaurants. Pick up a coffee and light snacks to eat on the go or dine at a grill house. The terrace of the rooftop seafood restaurant has uninterrupted views over the Mississippi River.
The Shaw Center for the Arts spreads across almost an entire city block in the southwest section of downtown Baton Rouge. It’s a short walk from major city attractions, including Louisiana Art & Science Museum and Old State Capitol. Public buses stop close to the center’s entrance. Metered parking is available on the surrounding streets and at a nearby parking garage.
The center is open daily and general admission is free. Fees are applicable for the events and exhibitions at the individual venues. Visit the Shaw Center for the Arts official website for more information.
