Participants engage in discussions and events at the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival in New Orleans.
New Orleans is set to host the 39th Tennessee Williams and New Orleans Literary Festival from March 26-30, 2024. Kicking off with the Stella Shouting Contest, the festival will feature over 60 events, including panel discussions, a book fair, and tributes to Tennessee Williams. With a star-studded lineup including Pulitzer Prize winners and New York Times bestsellers, the event promises to be a must-attend for literature enthusiasts and offers unique experiences such as culinary events and themed mystery nights.
New Orleans, known for its vibrant culture and rich history, is set to immerse itself in the world of literature and performance as it hosts the 39th Tennessee Williams and New Orleans Literary Festival. Kicking off on Sunday, March 23, with the already infamous Stella Shouting Contest, the excitement is palpable for the festival that runs from March 26 to March 30, 2024.
This year promises to be a real treat for book lovers and the artsy crowd alike, with over 60 events planned throughout the French Quarter. Most of these activities will take place at the historical Hotel Monteleone, which serves as the festival’s host hotel. Executives behind the festival are brimming with excitement as they prepare to showcase both new and experienced voices, prominently featuring over 50 New Orleans writers.
This year’s lineup boasts some impressive heavyweights, including Pulitzer Prize-winning author Michael Cunningham and New York Times bestselling author Gillian Flynn. Fans can look forward to engaging panels with not just them, but also literary talents like Maureen Corrigan, Laura Lippman, and Fatima Shaik, among more than 100 other experts and authors.
Marking a significant milestone, the festival will also celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Diana Pinckley Prizes for Crime Fiction. On Saturday, March 29, a full day of crime-related events will occur, including the awards ceremony where Flynn will be honored for her Distinguished Body of Work and Ashley Elston will receive the award for Debut Novel. This is definitely a must-attend event for fans of crime fiction!
What can attendees expect from this literary bonanza? Well, there’s just so much going on! From Writer’s Craft Series sessions that delve into poetry, fiction, and finding an agent, to the Literary Discussion Series featuring panels about contemporary issues like book bans and the lasting influences of Tennessee Williams, there’s something for everyone.
And let’s not forget the walking tours or the vibrant book fair! For those who crave a more active experience, there will be two New Orleans Writing Marathons that promise to excite and inspire. Plus, a heartfelt tribute event for Dorothy Allison is sure to honor one of the greats!
The festival is keeping the legacy of Tennessee Williams alive through numerous related events, including panels, the annual Tennessee Williams Scholars Conference, and a Tribute Reading at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Not to mention, there are theatrical productions featuring everything from classical works to modern innovations!
For those who dare, a 1920s-themed murder mystery event will take place on the same night as the Pinckley Prize awards ceremony. For food enthusiasts, a South Louisiana culinary event will complement the festivities, giving attendees an opportunity to indulge in the delicious flavors that the region is known for.
The literary celebration does not stop there! The Saints and Sinners LGBTQ+ Literary Festival is running concurrently, offering readings and discussions that celebrate diverse voices in literature. This adds to the vibrant tapestry of events occurring throughout the festival.
Festival tickets are currently up for grabs, with prices ranging from a pocket-friendly $10 to $45 for most events. For theatre lovers, the Tennessee Williams Theatre Company of New Orleans will premiere “Orpheus Descending” on March 27, ensuring there’s no shortage of theatrical excitement!
All in all, the Tennessee Williams and New Orleans Literary Festival is shaping up to be an unforgettable event. For those in and around New Orleans, this festival could be the highlight of your spring!
March Events and Festivals in New Orleans
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