Read a brief biography of Norman Corwin and view more photos from his life in radio.
Norman Corwin narrating "One World Flight" series, 1947.
Corwin Smith and Jimmy Stewart, "We Hold These Truths," 1941.
Photos courtesy of Norman Corwin
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In 1946, legendary radio dramatist Norman Corwin was named the first
recipient of the "One World Flight" Award. His prize-- a 4 month,
around-the-world trip patterned after the historic diplomatic flight of
Statesman Wendell Willkie. Later recipients would include Albert Einstein
and New York Mayor, Fiorello LaGuardia. Corwin used his global journey to
produce a series of thirteen radio documentaries for CBS -- recording
over a hundred hours of voices, collected over four months, covering 37,000
miles.
Armed with a heavy, and temperamental wire recorder Corwin spoke with
politicians, street sweepers, spiritual leaders, housewives, students -
reaching out to the famous and non famous - recording their thoughts on the
meaning of World War II and the possibilities for peace and humanity in the
future. Corwin recorded not only these conversations, but the ceremonies,
rituals and sounds of the cities, towns and villages that he passed through
on his "One World Flight."
Of Corwin's mission, playwright Jerome Lawrence observed, "It was good to
send a poet around the world. He has a way of listening to the rhythms of
tomorrow."
Over fifty years later, at age 89, Corwin revisits this global odyssey with
award winning producer Mary Beth Kirchner for "Lost & Found Sound," playing
excerpts and providing commentary about his CBS programs, which were a
personal view of a battle-weary post-war world.
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Copyright © 1999 The Kitchen Sisters