Inspired by the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright’s themes of desire and passion, the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival staged a benefit called “An Evening of Desires.” Guests enjoyed music, scenes from plays and poetry by and inspired by the works of Tennessee Williams. Funds raised contribute towards the 2019 Festival programming, which will take place from March 27-31.
The event took place at the brand-new and beautifully constructed WYES Kornman Performance Studio. The VIP party décor and the stage set and lighting followed the themes of passion and desire in deep shades of red and purple.
The evening began with a VIP cocktail hour featuring cuisine and drinks provided by NOPSI Hotel and served by chef Neal Swindler himself. Second Line Brewing also sponsored the event, providing the aptly named “Saison Named Desire.”
Event Chairs were Board President Peggy Scott Laborde, Board Vice President Sara Woodard, Francine Segal, Executive Director Paul J. Willis and Managing Director Tracy Cunningham.
Harpist Luke Brechtelsbauer entertained the crowd during the cocktail hour. Board President Peggy Scott Laborde began the performance portion of the evening by welcoming everyone to the new WYES venue and thanking the evening’s sponsors. Francine Segal provided background on each vignette, which included scenes from Williams’ plays along with his poetry, and songs on the themes of desire. Brechtelsbauer provided harp interludes between scenes. Performers included Beth Bartley, Leslie Castay, Leon Contavesprie, Augustin J Correro, Brenda Currin, Todd d’Amour, Janet Daley Duval, David W. Hoover, Harry Mayronne, Nell Nolan, Francine Segal and Anaïs St. John.
Event at a Glance
What: “An Evening of Desire,” benefiting the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival
When: Tuesday, October 9
Where: WYES Kornman Performance Studio
Performer Leon Contavesprie, Kathleen Van Horn, Board Vice President and Co-Chair Sara Woodard and Performer David W. Hoover
Performer Nell Nolan and Performer and Co-Chair Francine Segal
