BB’s Stage Door Canteen at The National WWII Museum is pleased to announce its upcoming 2026-27 season. Tickets are on sale now for the full lineup of shows and events, which includes a limited-run production from Tony Award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig, the return of a holiday classic and new dates for recurring favorites.
WORLD WAR II ON STAGE
- Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise | October 2–4 & 9–11
Tony Award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise tells the joyous, heartwarming story of his parents’ wartime courtship. US Army Captain Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, begins writing to Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress and dancer in New York City, hoping to meet her someday if the war will allow. But as the conflict continues, it threatens to end their relationship before it even starts.
- The Voice of France: A Tribute to Edith Piaf | May 7–9 & 14–16
2025 Stage Door Idol winner Elijah Hartman celebrates the life and legacy of France’s national chanteuse Edith Piaf in this intimate cabaret exploring her journey from childhood to international fame. Backed by a live five-piece band, Hartman performs Piaf’s beloved chansons in French, weaving together music, memories and the complexities that shaped her remarkable career.
- Swing That Music: A Tribute to Louis Armstrong | June 11–13 & 18–20
Returning to the Canteen for this first time since 2021, master trumpeter Wendell Brunious and veteran pianist Tom Hook honor the incomparable Louis Armstrong through timeless music and captivating storytelling. Trace Satchmo’s life from humble beginnings in the Big Easy to superstardom as an international ambassador of jazz.
HOLIDAY SPECIALS
- Teddy Bear Tea | Saturdays and Sundays, December 5–20
Teddy Bear Tea at BB’s Stage Door Canteen is the perfect holiday experience to share with your children and grandchildren! Featuring delicious food and sweet treats, lively music from the Victory Belles and a special visit with Santa, young guests will leave with a teddy bear and warm memories they’re sure to treasure for years to come.
- It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play | December 17 & 18
Returning to the Canteen by popular demand, this very special production of It's a Wonderful Life includes voice actors and live Foley sound effects that bring this classic Christmas film to life as an authentic 1940s-style radio play.
YEAR-ROUND FAVORITES
- Dine & Dance with the Victory Swing Orchestra | Multiple Dates, August through May
Put on your dancing shoes and head to BB’s Stage Door Canteen, the only place in New Orleans where you can experience a live 1940s big band. The Victory Swing Orchestra is an amazing ensemble of talented local musicians that will have you swinging the night away—just like your parents and grandparents did! Join us for specially themed Halloween, New Year’s Eve and Valentines Day shows and more.
- The Victory Belles Salute to Hope | Multiple Dates, August through June
11:45 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Showtimes Available
In this original show from the Victory Belles, audiences are swept into 1940s America, tracing the nation’s path from swing-era optimism to wartime resilience. Through iconic songs of the period, the Victory Belles reveal how music, legendary entertainers like Bob Hope and treasured letters from home lifted spirits and kept hope alive when it mattered most. Matinee luncheon, dinner experience and show-only tickets available.
- Wartime Piano Happy Hour | Multiple Dates, August through June
At this live instrumental showcase of wartime piano music at The Higgins Hotel's Patriots Circle Lounge, guests of all ages can tap along to favorites like “Sentimental Journey” and “I’ll Be Seeing You” and learn how these tunes coincided with significant events of World War II.
