Opal Masters to be Honored at LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana Oracle Gala Oct. 1 @ the Presbytère

Mike Moreau (aka Opal Masters)

Mike Moreau (aka Opal Masters)

The Oracle Gala is the flagship annual fundraiser for the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana. Each year at the Oracle Gala, the organization honors a member of the community who has contributed substantially to permanently preserving LGBT-related archival materials.

The second year’s Oracle Gala honoree is Mike Moreau (aka Opal Masters), who is donating his extensive Krewe of Amon-Ra collection to the Louisiana State Museum. Amon-Ra, is one of the oldest gay Mardi Gras krewes in New Orleans, and has held a ball every year since its formation in 1965 (more consecutive years than any other gay krewe).

“Much of our collective history remains in the closet” says Frank Perez, Board President of the Archives Project. “That is why the work of the archives project is so important. One of the aspects that makes New Orleans LGBT+ history unique is gay carnival. And that is why this year’s Oracle Gala is so exciting.”

Moreau, an Amon-Ra member since 1965, has been the krewe’s King, Queen, and Captain at various times. He has collected many costumes, photos, videos, invitations, and sketches that document the history of the krewe. Wayne Phillips of the Louisiana State Museum will be curating these and other items at the event.

The 2016 Oracle Gala will be held at the Presbytère (751 Chartres Street) on Saturday, October 1, at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $50.00 ($40.00 for Members).  Fox 8 (WVUE) Chief Meteorologist David Bernard will be emcee, and there will be live music by the Paulin Brothers. Attendees are encouraged to mask/costume, but it is not required. To purchase tickets, call (504)941-1633, or visit http://oracle2016.eventzilla.net.  Tickets are also available at the Crescent City Tour Booking Agency, 638 St. Ann Street.

For more information about the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisiana, visit www.lgbtarchivesla.org

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