Amy Wanamaker is a Texas native but New Orleans runs deep in her soul. Her father’s career in the oil and gas industry took the family from West Texas to New Orleans when she was 9 years old.

“We lived on the West Bank. It’s the highest point in town and it was a fascinating time in a place with a very European culture,” Wanamaker recalled. “There was a genteelism that was very prevalent. We were taught to show great respect to everyone.”

The racial diversity was deeply embraced, she said. Acting mature also was required.

“We grew up around adults,” she said.

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