Shopping

As Shreveport–Bossier continues to grow, its unique shopping opportunities can become lost in the shadow of strip malls and national chain department stores. Unfortunately, the longer these local establishments remain hidden, their very existence becomes threatened. The focus of this chapter rests on introducing the visitor—as well as locals—to these establishments, casting light onto some of the great offerings in the area. Antiques shoppers will have a field day browsing and buying. The local boutiques and gift shops offer one-of-a-kind items that promise to please anybody who receives them. Men and women’s clothiers offer the work of national and international designers, saving locals a trip to Dallas or New York.

Shopping - The Arts

When it comes to the arts, Shreveport–Bossier can cater to the most varied of tastes, from cultured patrons to folks who thought taste was something just associated with the mouth. For an introduction to the world of music, one could do no better than to investigate the numerous offerings of the Hurley School of Music, located on the campus of Centenary College. Concerts and recitals are commonplace, with performances by young pupils of the Centenary Suzuki School (www.centenarysuzuki.com), student ensembles, visiting vocalists, and concert pianists of national note. This college also is home to two nationally renowned choirs who provide concerts throughout the year.

Cannot tell the difference between a Renoir and a Dalí? Then stop by The R. W. Norton Art Gallery for some education. Interested in the work of local artists? Many places to view their work are listed in this chapter, but do not forget some of the upscale restaurants in the area, especially if you like to mix your art with a great meal.

If your idea of art education is finding a painting for the living room that matches the predominant color of the couch, let the Shreveport Regional Arts Council, the Bossier Arts Council, Artspace, and the annual ArtBreak provide you a chance to broaden your view and have fun in the process. So many of our artistic venues invite interaction with artists and the art form, to take advantage of what Bossier and Shreveport have to offer. For our size, our dedication to the arts rivals that of much larger cities.

And be sure to see the murals located on buildings in downtown Shreveport, especially the Once in a Millennium Moon Mega Mural (see the listing in the Kidstuff chapter for details). Even our city buses are examples of public art, as is the Texas Street Bridge and the mosaics located underneath it on the Shreveport side of the river. Art is another language; we speak it well.

If you thought the term thespian referred to somebody who practices an alternative lifestyle well, you might be half right. With so many theaters in the area, you should have no problem becoming involved in a show when you are not busy attending one. Why sit at home watching television or surfing the Internet when live performances surround you, most costing only a modest fee? And with the Peter Pan Players, Shreveport Little Theatre Academy, and the Academy of Children’s Theatre, even the children can become involved. With such a local pool of talent of all ages, is it any wonder Hollywood has come to town and decided to stay?