Maxim Langstaff ’81, a Grammy- and Emmy-nominated multimedia writer and producer, will deliver the keynote address at Connecticut College’s 107th Commencement on Sunday, May 18.
Langstaff’s creative and editorial work in TV, film, music, print and radio has reached hundreds of millions of people worldwide. A master storyteller who is at work on his second novel, he is recognized for his vision, versatility and commitment to conservation and the natural world.
His many credits include producing the multimedia Making of Sergeant Pepper with Sir George Martin, featuring Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, George Harrison and Phil Collins. He wrote, produced and directed the most comprehensive filmed history of the Beatles through the eyes of their producer. Many artists have collaborated with Langstaff on projects he has created, written and produced, including Herbie Hancock, Eric Clapton, Elton John, Joni Mitchell, B.B. King, Tony Bennett, Vince Gill, Michael Tilson Thomas, Smokey Robinson, Stephen Schwartz, Jack White, Glen Campbell, Jeff Beck, Carole King, Dave Grohl and Willie Nelson.
He is the creator and executive producer for the PBS documentary series Soundbreaking. His collaboration with John Denver produced the Wildlife Concert and the highest-rated music program in cable TV history. He is the co-founder and former playwright-in-residence of the National Youth Theater at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center. He is a graduate of the Putney School, Connecticut College and the National Theater Institute and was a participant in the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference.
Langstaff has deep ties to Conn. His sister, Lee Langstaff ’78, and two cousins, Virginia Lee ’70 and Josephine Heminway ’85, are also Conn grads. His grandmother, Percy Maxim Lee, a political and social reform activist who was president of the League of Women Voters, served on Conn’s Board of Trustees and received the College Medal in 1976.
At the Commencement ceremony, the College will present Langstaff with the degree of doctor of humane letters honoris causa, in recognition of his contribution to the arts and arts education.