NEW ORLEANS – One Book One New Orleans (OBONO) is excited to share the full lineup of their annual festival, Words & Music, which will take place November 16-19.
“We welcome all in our community to celebrate New Orleans’ arts and artists with us,” says executive director Dr. Megan Holt.
In this spirit of welcoming all, Words & Music is pivoting away from traditional ticket sales for most of its sessions, moving toward a donation-based model.
“We talk a lot about equity and inclusivity at One Book One New Orleans,” says Holt. “Encouraging donations rather than selling tickets ensures that nobody will be turned away from Words & Music because they don’t have the money to spare. This feels more like we’re living up to our values.”
Words & Music’s venues – The New Orleans Jazz Market, the TEP Centerm and the Southern Food and Beverage – reflect these values as well, with ample free parking nearby and first-floor access to all sessions in ADA-compliant spaces.
On Wednesday, November 16, the festival will have a virtual kickoff celebration of Sylvia Plath’s 90th birthday, featuring poets Toi Derricotte, Carolyn Hembree, and Kay Murphy.
November 17 begins three days of in-person sessions. Attendees can look forward to presentations and readings by Bruce Sunpie Barnes, Elizabeth Miki Brina, Jarvis DeBerry, Marti Dumas, Brian Egland Bernice McFadden, Marian Denise Moore, Daniel Jose Older, The Stooges Brass Band, Melissa A. Weber, and many more. November 17 also features a conversation between music journalist Alison Fensterstock and Joy Clark, followed by a solo acoustic performance by Clark. A full lineup and daily schedule is available at wordsandmusic.org.
Words & Music is currently accepting sponsorships, with levels starting at $200. To learn more visit the website or contact Dr. Holt.
Proceeds from sponsorships and donations will support OBONO’s year-round literacy outreach and free public programming.
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