Books & Bagels with author Lisa Winkler, Gershwin’s Bess

If you’re a Gershwin fan – and who isn’t – join us on November 15th as author Lisa Winkler speaks about her fascinating new novel, Gershwin’s Bess.

It’s the story of the brilliant young black soprano who pioneered the role of Bess in Porgy and Bess‘ very first production. Beginning with her upbringing in a still segregated Baltimore, her fight for acceptance to the best music schools in the country and her attempts at launching a career in an operat world still hidebound by racial prejudice and sterotypes, the novel brings Anne Brown to life. Meeting George Gershwin opened up opportunities not just for her, but for him, in deepening his understanding of the people he was portraying.

Lisa Winkler grew up in Killingworth, CT. She will be reading selections from her book and talking about the research and development during a Q&A session.

This event is free and open to the public, but advance registration is requested below. Refreshments will be served and donations are greatly appreciated.