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:

How’d They Do That?!
Mon., Sept. 9, 2024, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Highland Branch of the Lake County Public Library
2841 Jewett Ave, Highland, IN 46322
Classic Hollywood has achieved a wide variety of iconic scenes that simply take one’s breath away. Movie characters have parted the Red Sea, dodged crop dusters, scaled skyscrapers, and more, leaving audiences wondering, “How’d they do that?!” Join Film Historian Annette Bochenek for a presentation about how some of classic Hollywood’s most memorable movie scenes were developed, approached, and accomplished. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.

Mythology in the Movies
Thurs., Sept. 12, 2024, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Virtual Program via Zoom
Inspired by mythology, gods, goddesses, and a variety of mythological heroes and creatures have appeared in many different art forms, including films. They inspired classic Hollywood’s film pioneers to take on the challenges of depicting these figures in creative and innovative ways. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she explores various depictions of mythology in classic Hollywood and connections to contemporary portrayals. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

The Hollywood Canteen
Tues., Sept. 17, 9am-10am CT (IN-PERSON)
Patty Turner Center
375 Elm St, Deerfield, IL 60015
During World War II, Hollywood went to war alongside America. Many Golden Age films were released to boost morale on the homefront, while the stars themselves traveled to entertain soldiers firsthand. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette. Bochenek for a special presentation about Golden Age Hollywood’s unique approach to entertaining servicemen during World War II. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Celluloid Road Trip: U.S. Edition
Tues., Sept. 17, 2024, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
South Holland Historical Society–Heritage House
443 E 157th St, South Holland, IL 60473
Classic films continue to allow audiences to travel across the map through the magic of the silver screen. While movie studios often took advantage of their backlots to portray different locations, some studios took on the challenges of having their talents travel to destinations across the U.S. for on-location shoots. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about various classic films shot on-location in the U.S., memorable achievements, and the legacies of these films today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

The History of the Hollywood Musical
Tues., Sept. 24, 2024, 7pm-8pm CT
Winnetka-Northfield Public Library
Free online program via Zoom
While musicals have their roots on the stage, their transition to the big screen took Hollywood by storm. At the same time, it also presented many challenges for the film industry. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of classic Hollywood musicals, some of the top musical stars, and more. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.