Downtown

Did you know that Charleston is the birthplace of opera in North America? Join HALO for a walking tour of the history of opera in Charleston. Holy City Arts & Lyric Opera (HALO) is proud to present a unique walking tour highlighting the history of opera in Charleston. This 90-minute walking tour through the heart of historic downtown will include stops at many iconic locations while giving you the opportunity to experience the Holy City from a new perspective.   The tour begins on the corner of East Bay and Tradd Street—the site that inspired Catfish Row in Gershwin’s opera Porgy and Bess. We’ll visit the home of the playwrights Dorothy and Dubose Heyward, as well as dwell for a moment at Church and Broad Street- the spot where opera was first performed in America! And that's just the beginning! Join us and discover how important and constant opera has been throughout history in Charleston.   You'll learn about the world’s first megastar (an opera singer!) and local personalities, as well as piano parlors, traveling opera troupes, and more! 2nd and 4th Saturdays September to November @ 9am Tickets - $30 per person Where does the tour begin? You’ll meet your tour guide at the corner of East Bay and Tradd Streets in downtown Charleston (see map to the right). How much walking will there be? The walking tour is a little more than half a mile. You will need to cross over Broad Street, which is a main thoroughfare, and also navigate some cobblestone streets. Where do I park? The closest parking garage is 25 Prioleau Street on the corner of East Bay Street, where there are also restrooms available beginning at 8:30am. What is the cancellation policy with regards to weather? We will cancel for a full refund if there is thunder/lightening or if the heat index is over 100º at the time of the tour.