Billy Eichner will headline “The Last Bohemian Soirée,” a featured event of the 40th anniversary Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival, taking place Saturday evening at the Hotel Monteleone’s Queen Anne Ballroom.
The annual soirée, long known as one of the festival’s marquee social and cultural gatherings, will center on a live, in-depth conversation with Eichner, whose work spans television, film and digital media. Best known as the creator and host of the street interview series Billy on the Street, Eichner has built a career blending sharp pop culture commentary with improvisational comedy, earning a wide following across platforms.
During the program, Eichner will share excerpts from his forthcoming audio memoir, Billy on Billy, offering audiences insight into his creative development, influences and experiences navigating the entertainment industry. The evening’s conversation will be moderated by CBS News correspondent and playwright Jamie Wax, whose work spans journalism, theater and performance. Together, the two are expected to explore Eichner’s evolution from cult comedy figure to mainstream success, as well as the artistic voice behind his work.
The event will open with a live musical performance by New Orleans-based vocalist Chloe Marie, reflecting the festival’s ongoing emphasis on blending literary and performing arts. Doors are scheduled to open at 6 p.m., with programming beginning at 6:30 p.m. and Eichner’s appearance slated for later in the evening.
This year’s Bohemian Soirée is presented in partnership with the Blue Roses Project, a New Orleans nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the development and presentation of new theatrical works by queer artists. The collaboration underscores the festival’s continued commitment to fostering diverse creative voices and expanding access to contemporary storytelling.
Now in its 40th year, the Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival remains one of the city’s premier literary events, drawing writers, performers and audiences from across the country. Named in honor of playwright Tennessee Williams, who lived and worked in New Orleans, the festival presents an annual program of panel discussions, theatrical performances, readings and special events that highlight both established and emerging voices in literature and the arts.
Tickets for “The Last Bohemian Soirée” are available through the Tennessee Williams Festival website, with a range of pricing options including general admission, reserved seating and discounted tickets for students and industry professionals. Space is limited.
