How to Build a Lineup: Burlesque, Brass, and Beyond

In New Orleans, your entertainment lineup can make—or break—your event. A great band gets people dancing, a jaw-dropping burlesque act turns heads, and a soulful blues singer can create a moment no one forgets. But here’s the secret: it’s not just what you book, it’s how you book it.

At The Howlin’ Wolf, you’re not just renting a venue—you’re gaining access to one of the most connected music insiders in the city: Howie Kaplan.

Why Howie Kaplan’s Rolodex Is Your Golden Ticket

Howie isn’t just the owner of The Howlin’ Wolf—he’s a Grammy-winning performance manager for the legendary Rebirth Brass Band, and a long-time champion of New Orleans’ music and cultural scene. Over decades, he’s cultivated relationships with top-tier talent across every genre and style you can imagine.

That means when you book your event at The Wolf, you’re tapping into a curated network of:

• High-energy brass bands for second lines and dance floor takeovers

• Sultry burlesque troupes that channel the city’s vintage glamour

• Blues, funk, and jazz legends who know how to keep a crowd moving

• Soulful singer-songwriters for intimate sets

• Specialty acts from Mardi Gras Indians to Mardi Gras-themed DJs

How to Craft the Perfect Event Lineup

1. Define Your Vibe Are you going for elegant cocktail chic, wild dance party, or something in between? Your entertainment should set—and sustain—that tone.

2. Mix It Up A single act can be great, but layering entertainment throughout the evening keeps the energy flowing. Imagine starting with a jazz trio during cocktails, surprising guests with a burlesque performance after dinner, and closing with a brass band parade.

3. Use the Local Edge New Orleans talent brings authenticity and energy you just can’t import. Howie’s access to world-class local performers ensures your lineup feels like the real deal.

4. Think Beyond Music Comedy sets, spoken word artists, drag shows, and cultural performances all add depth and variety to an event.

The Wolf Advantage

Booking entertainment on your own can mean endless calls, negotiations, and guesswork. At The Howlin’ Wolf, Howie and his team handle the connections, the contracts, and the coordination—so you can focus on enjoying the show.

It’s this combination of venue, experience, and insider access that transforms a great party into an unforgettable one. Whether you’re envisioning burlesque, brass, or something completely unexpected, The Howlin’ Wolf can make it happen.

Ready to start building your dream lineup? When you book your event with The Howlin’ Wolf, the stage is already set—literally—for the best entertainment New Orleans has to offer.