A Celebration of the Life and Work of Stephen Sondheim

Published 2022-02-04
With Joanna Gleason, John McWhorter, Donna Murphy, Dr. Cornel West, moderated by Jamie Bernstein

A multi-lensed look into the depth, complexity and nuanced work of Stephen Sondheim. What makes this conversation unique is its perspective on Sondheim’s vast contributions from both sides of the footlights: we’ll hear from theatrical luminaries Joanna Gleason and Donna Murphy, as well as from two leading intellectuals of our time, Dr. Cornel West and American linguist John McWhorter. Moderated by author Jamie Bernstein. Curated by Tom Oppenheim.

This event was recorded on Wednesday, February 2 at 5pm EST via Zoom webinar. Because the center wants to make it easy for all to be part of world-class culture and conversations, it was offered for free. This archival recording will also be available for all for free. Enjoy!

All Comments (10)
  • @polyglotte
    Thank you for such a great convo. Brought me to tears at times. Good conversation is a tonic in these times. A shot in the arm (with no side effects other than a warm feeling in the heart). Loved this mix of gifted conversationalists. You're all on my fantasy dinner party list now.
  • I fell in love with Sondheim as a teenager... I never heard or FELT anything that came close to the lyrical and musical sensitivity and genius of this man. A once in a lifetime talent. Genius is definitely a deserving moniker- his work is truly magnificent. I have goosebumps listening to these incredible insights. My heart is nodding in recognition- thank you for this.
  • @MaxRyan777
    Ty sooooo much for this. What a beautiful tribute and such a treat to see Donna and Joanna talking about working with him. We are soooo lucky to have had him for so long. The wrap up was perfect. He will live on through "Children and Art".... 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
  • Unbelievably beautiful and smart conversation. I'm quite moved by all of the participants and Dr. West was such a revelation.. Thank you.
  • @DMaggieMagee
    Thank you all...just a happy sponge sitting in on this enthralling discussion that opens SO many windows onto Sondheim's brilliance and process!☺
  • @joshscheer9212
    This was such a treat to attend (and I'm glad my question made the panel laugh!). Thanks for posting
  • This is so fabulous; feel the love & gratitude. Mr Sondheim's work has enriched my life beyond measure. He was, and is, America's Shakespeare. Thank you for the joy, Sir.
  • @glpr1
    Oh, what a gift! So many stunning insights about Sondheim's work. The interdisciplinary approach yields so many treasures. Thank you.
  • @1957gfc
    Shoot, I missed the day you did this, but I'm thrilled you recorded it so I am watching now. Thank you so much!