For the first time since 2003, the iconic Joy Theater opened its doors on Canal Street to the public for its (re)opening night with Irma Thomas Thursday, December 29. Opened as a movie theater, the Joy has been redeveloped as a multi-use performance space, with music and theatre occupying the splendid building. Its opening weekend continues tonight with Soul Rebels and Cyril Neville’s Tribe 13 and Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers and Big Sam’s Funky Nation on New Years Eve.

All photos © 2011 Marc Pagani Photography.

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