The final session of eg '07 has just wrapped up with a knockout final section, Keys to Happiness, which drew the audience to its feet repeatedly. Norman Corwin, the 97-year-old writer, essayist, journalism teacher and radio producer who just signed a three-year contract as writer in residence at USC, exited with a standing ovation after reciting a classic tribute to returning soldiers, comedy writer Bruce Vilanch also brought the crowd to its feet after many peels of laughter over his monologue rift, and comic actor Jonathan Winters, 82, drew the audience to its feet both at the start and end of his performance.
Nathaniel Kahn concluded the gathering with a short documentary on pianist Leon Fleisher and his struggle to return to overcome a debilitating condition in his write hand to train himself to play at concert level again with both hands. And, of course, Michael successfully prevailed upon Fleisher to play an exquisitely wonderful closing piece.
"The greatest joys in life are meant to be shared," said Fleisher, in discussion with Michael Hawley, adding that being a soloist is by definition a solitary undertaking.
As usual, we'll post more following the conference, including pictures and our three points abstract, following the conference.
Jonathan Harris shows his latest work.
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