The first-ever documented performance of opera in the United States of America took place in New Orleans in 1796. George Washington was still president, though fortunately, he wasn't the last to take in a show there. The fiery passion of those original performances now come courtesy of the renowned New Orleans Opera Association, founded in 1943. Opera also finds its way to visitors right where they stay, with monthly Opera on Tap performances at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel right in the French Quarter. You might even catch local trio Bon Operatit! at one of their many local free appearances.