ph i l a n t h ro pi c fu n
Literary Legends
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The “Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival” honored the late Harper Lee. By Shelby Simon
A literary buzz consumed the courtyard of Le Petit Théâtre and Tableau for the 30th annual “Tennessee Williams/ New Orleans Literary Festival.” This year’s event honored the late Harper Lee. At the Festival Opening, guest of honor actress Mary Badham, who rose to fame for her role as Scout in the film adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird, joined Pulitzer Prize-winning author Rick Bragg on stage for a lively interview. Following their conversation, Badham read a selection from Harper Lee’s recently released Go Set a Watchman, a novel told from the point of view of a grown-up Scout. Food and beverages were provided by Tableau and Lüke. SoBou provided a signature cocktail dubbed the Streetcar Named Desire, a twist on a classic Sidecar. Wine and additional cocktails were provided by Tableau, Donner Peltier Distillers and Brady’s Wine Warehouse. The evening culminated at the French Quarter home of Tennessee Williams for a VIP after party. Now-owners Graham Coleman and Brian Theis graciously opened up the home to patrons and special guests to provide a look into the life of Tennessee Williams and his famous abode. The “Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival” celebrates the genius of Tennessee Williams, who once called New Orleans his “spiritual home,” and the contemporary artists of the city today. More than 325 patrons attended the opening event, and more than 11,000 attended the five-day literary and multi-cultural festival. n
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Event at a Glance When: Wednesday, March 30 Where: Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré
1. Executive Director Paul Willis, Actress Mary Badham, Author Rick Bragg and Board Member David Johnson 2. Stanwood Duval and Board President Janet Daley Duval 3. Nancy Degan, Emily Degan and Founding Board Member Peggy Scott Laborde
42 st. charles Avenue july 2016
Photographed by Kenn y Martinez
What: “Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival Annual Gala”