Steve Lopez Discusses His Book on Homelessness With Actress Eva Marie Saint

LOS ANGELES, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 04/03/08 -- Steve Lopez, author of "The Soloist: A Lost Dream an Unlikely Friendship and the Redemptive Power of Music," will speak with actress Eva Marie Saint on Thursday, April 17, 2008 at the Writers Guild Theater as part of TOWN HALL's ongoing Writers Bloc series.

"Soloist" is an intimate portrait of the gifted violinist Nathaniel Ayers and traces his promising education at Juilliard, his struggles with schizophrenia, and the factors that led to his homelessness in Los Angeles. The book describes the circumstances that prompted their friendship and the author's efforts to improve the musician's life in spite of numerous setbacks.

Lopez is a columnist for the Los Angeles Times and the author of three previous novels. He has been an Editor-at-Large for TIME magazine and has also written for the Philadelphia Inquirer. Lopez met Ayers during his work on a LA Times series of columns about Skid Row and homelessness in Los Angeles.

Saint is an award-winning actress in television, film, and on Broadway. She has won an Emmy(R) and an Academy Award(R), and has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She is best known for her role opposite Marlon Brando in "On the Waterfront."

Throughout its 70 year history, TOWN HALL has hosted discussions with notable authors such as Carl Sagan, Ray Bradbury and Gore Vidal. More recently, TOWN HALL's Writer's Bloc welcomed comedian and author, Steve Martin.

TOWN HALL Los Angeles is a nonpartisan and nonprofit organization comprised of leaders and engaged citizens dedicated to examining important issues facing our society. Being a civic organization in the "Creative Capitol of the World," TOWN HALL members crave outlets for their interests. TOWN HALL's Writers Bloc series brings compelling speakers and topics to the Los Angeles community. To question prominent authors on their latest works, join TOWN HALL.

All accredited members of the media are invited to cover this event.

**Please credit TOWN HALL Los Angeles in your coverage.

When: Thursday, April 17, 2008 7:30 PM Program with Audience Q&A and book signing

Where: Writers Guild Theater 135 South Doheny Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Note to reporters and editors: The organization uses the full name TOWN HALL Los Angeles. Please do not make generic as in 'town hall.'

For more information, visit www.townhall-la.org, Cost: $20.

MEDIA ADVISORY Contact: Deborah Weinberg Director, Media Relations 213.312.9307 media@townhall-la.org

2008-04-03 18:38:56 0328070 MARKETWIRE