What and When:
Tennessee considered New Orleans his "spiritual home," and he loved to write here. The festival celebrates the life and cultural legacy of Tennessee Williams with two days of master classes;, a roster of panel discussions and celebrity interviews; theater and music events. In 2011 the festival will be on March 23 to March 27.
Events:
The festival usually features two days of Master Classes; a roster of lively discussions among blue-chip panelists; celebrity interviews; theater, music, food/drink and film events; a scholars' conference; comedy improv and a poetry slam; short fiction and one-act play competitions; a breakfast book club; French Quarter literary walking tours; a book fair; a special fundraising event on March 24 and an opening night gala the following night. You can down load the schedule at this website.
Who's Who:
This year the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival will bring in a star-studded ineup that includes best-selling authors, screnewriters, playwrights, film critics, Emmy Award winners, literary agents, and many more.
Where:
Most of the events take place in New Orleans' historic French Quarter. Sites hosting events include Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré; The Historic New Orleans Collection; Royal Sonesta Hotel; Williams Research Center; The Cabildo; Muriel's Jackson Square Restaurant; Palm Court Jazz Café; Windsor Court Hotel; Besh Steak, Harrah's Casino; One Eyed Jacks; Dragon's Den; and the Clock Bar, Chateau Bourbon Hotel.
Food Events:
Of course any festival in New Orleans features great food, and the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival is no exception. Every year there are at several food events featuring great chefs preparing food from their newest cookbook.
Music:
A literary festival doesn't rule out music. So, add that to the list of reason why you shouldn't miss this year's festival.
Tickets:
Tickets can be purchased for one day only, or for special events. An all access pass is available and gives you access into every event listed. To order tickets online, go to and can be ordered on line at the Tennessee Williams Festival website.