The Way of StoryTransformational Media Conference, Feb 2, Los Angeles, CA
| See attach for Sat, Feb 16 The Way of Story in Ojai and also below for Feb 2 Story Conference in Los Angeles. |
| Catherine Ann Jones Award-winning writer and global teacher The Way of Story: The Power of Story to Heal. 10 am, Sat, Feb 2, A Celebration of Transformational Entertainment, Media and ArtsThe Saban Theater 8440 Wilshire Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90211 Some 2000 gathered to celebrate and promote transformational themes and content in the film industry and the music industry. Very responsive audience. Standing in the wings just before being announced to present my talk, The Healing Power of Story, I was told there would be a brief musical interlude. I stood listening and gradually recognized the instrumental version of an old American folk song, The Water is Wide. Then I remembered singing that song when I acted in a production of the play, Spoon River Anthology, some forty years earlier. It was as if those forty years happened in the blink of an eye from actor to playwright to screenwriter to author and teacher. Full Circle. Then I heard my name announced and walked onto the large stage before 1500 or so people. I was still moved by this experience so before beginning my prepared talk, I shared with them what had just occurred. The response was electric as many in the audience expressed, “Ah, Yes, or other sounds of empathy.” This was a moment of interconnection so I paused as we all experienced this before beginning my planned talk. Later when signing books, I was heartened to see young people expressing how much they liked the television show I wrote for, Touched by an Angel, now playing on cable television on reruns. This conference and the many responsive individuals who attended confirmed that audiences want something more on television and in movies, something which raises consciousness and provides hope. The soul must be nourished. |