Author Talk - "Fly on the Wall" by Bill Pugin

Synopsis: 
A memoir of Bill Pugin’s journey from being a hearing child with a Deaf sister to a skilled sign language interpreter. Through early exposure to ASL and a transformative time at Gallaudet, he finds his purpose bridging the Deaf and hearing worlds. Along the way, he builds a vibrant life that includes performing through sign and dance, working in theater and entertainment, and taking on adventurous assignments—including time on cruise ships. Blending personal stories with humor and insight, the book highlights communication, identity, and a life lived between cultures.

Author Bio:
For over five decades, Bill Pugin has stood at the crossroads of two languages and cultures—bridging communication between the Deaf and hearing worlds. In this heartfelt and often humorous memoir, Pugin takes readers on a journey from his small-town Southern childhood to the global stages and studios where he built a lifetime of stories as a sign language interpreter, performer, and advocate.

From his first exposure to American Sign Language through his Deaf sister, to interpreting alongside Oscar-winner Marlee Matlin, Fly on the Wall celebrates the beauty of connection, the art of interpretation, and the human spirit’s unshakable drive to be understood. Pugin’s reflections reveal not just the life of one man, but the evolution of a profession—and a culture—rooted in empathy, expression, and resilience.

A moving tribute to the Deaf community and a master class in compassion, this memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in language, accessibility, and the extraordinary power of understanding.

This program will be ASL (American Sign Language) accessible.