Dr. Annette Bochenek loves to take Hometowns to Hollywood on the road–in person or virtually–to offer fun and engaging presentations about Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her presentations range from focusing on various subjects related to Golden Age Hollywood, in addition to presentations that profile individual performers.

Below is a listing of upcoming presentations and screenings for Hometowns to Hollywood. Attendance is free of charge unless otherwise noted.

To learn more about booking Hometowns to Hollywood at your organization, click here.

UPCOMING PRESENTATIONS:

The Poles in Hollywood: From Pola Negri to Richard Boleslawski
Thurs., Aug. 1, 2024, 6pm-7pm CT
Newberry Library
Online Program via Zoom
The films of Hollywood’s Golden Age offered many depictions and talents from Poland. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she explores a selection of the studio system’s on- and off-screen talents of Polish descent as well as classic films that portray Polish characters. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. This program costs $47 for Newberry members/seniors/students and $53 for non-members. REGISTER HERE.

Hollywood Goes to the Beach
Tues., Aug. 6, 2024, 1pm-2:30pm (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
Taking full advantage of sunny California’s climate, classic Hollywood films frequently featured beach sequences and sun-drenched stars. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she explores classic Hollywood stars and their ties to beach films, the influence of beach movies on fashion, and memorable beach movie moments. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Silent Film Society of Chicago: The Busher (1919)
Tues., Aug. 6, 2024, 7pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Arcada Theatre
105 E Main St, St. Charles, IL 60174
A young baseball pitcher in the bush leagues is discovered by a big-league manager and given his chance in the major leagues. But will he be up to the challenge? Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for an introduction to The Busher (1919), starring Charles Ray, Colleen Moore, and John Gilbert. Live musical accompaniment to the screening will be performed by premiere Chicago theatre organist Jay Warren. Tickets are $10 per person. BUY TICKETS HERE.

The Marx Bros.: A Legacy of Laughter
Weds., Aug. 14, 2024, 7pm-8pm (HYBRID; SPEAKER IN-PERSON)
Elmhurst Public Library
125 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Go behind the scenes of classic Hollywood history with Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek, as you learn about the lives and legacies of the legendary Marx Brothers comedy team. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER FOR IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL HERE.

Movie Melodies: The Music of Cole Porter
Mon., Aug. 19, 2024, 7pm-8pm ET
Somerset County Library System of New Jersey
Free Online Program via Zoom
Many beloved classic Hollywood films were made all the more memorable by the musical talents of American songwriter and composer Cole Porter. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about Cole Porter’s influence on classic film, some of his most popular songs represented in film, and his legacy today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.

Dynamic Duos: Classic Comedy Partnerships
Tues., Aug. 20, 2024, 7pm-8pm CT
Winnetka-Northfield Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Whether over the airwaves or on the silver screen, the classic comedy genre benefited from many beloved comedic partnerships. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents early comedy’s top partnerships, including Abbott & Costello, Burns & Allen, Laurel & Hardy, Martin & Lewis, and more. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.