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:

Chicago in the Classics
Sat., Jan. 4, 2025, 2pm-3pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Lisle Public Library
777 Front St, Lisle, IL 60532
The Windy City has long been the backdrop to classic films, either as a setting depicted in a film or actually being portrayed through on-location productions. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a discussion about classic films set in Chicago, the locations portrayed, and the influence of these depictions today. This program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.

Silent Film Society of Chicago Screening of Go West (1925)
Tues., Jan. 7, 2025, 7:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Arcada Theatre
105 E Main St, St. Charles, IL 60174
With little luck at keeping a job in the city, a New Yorker tries to work in the country and eventually finds his way leading a herd of cattle to the West Coast. What happens next? Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for an introduction to the film, followed by a screening of the film with special musical accompaniment provided by premiere Chicago area theatre organist Jay Warren. Tickets are $10 per person. BUY TICKETS HERE.

Jack Benny: An Illinois Original
Thurs., Jan. 9, 2025, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Online Program via Zoom
Jack Benny is regarded as one of the top comedians in American history, shining in vaudeville, radio, television, and film while making a huge impact on the sitcom genre. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a special “Hometowns to Hollywood” tribute to Jack Benny, as she discusses his career, legacy, and early years in Waukegan, IL, in a multimedia presentation. PRIVATE EVENT.

Rita Hayworth: The Love Goddess
Weds., Jan. 15, 2025, 1pm-2pm CT
North Shore Congregation Israel
Online Program via Zoom
Rita Hayworth is well-remembered today as one of Golden Age Hollywood’s biggest box office stars. From her early years as a dancer, becoming Hollywood’s first princess, and being realized as a box office bombshell, there is much to explore regarding Hayworth’s on and off-screen life. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about the life and legacy of Rita Hayworth. The program will include a multimedia presentation of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Silent Film Society of Chicago Screening of The Speed Spook (1924)
Weds., Jan. 22, 2025, 7:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Des Plaines Theatre
1476 Miner St, Des Plaines, IL 60016
An auto racer driving through a small town finds himself tangled up in a local political controversy, an election, and a mystery that surrounds a supposedly “haunted” car that speeds through town with no driver and disappears before anyone can catch it. What happens next? Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for an introduction to the film, followed by a screening of the film with special musical accompaniment provided by premiere Chicago area theatre organist Jay Warren. Tickets are $10 per person. BUY TICKETS HERE.

Comics to Classics
Weds., Jan. 29, 2025, 7pm-8pm CT
Mid-Continent Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Many classic films were inspired by comics, bringing beloved comic strip characters to life on the big screen. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a discussion about comics that led to classic films, from superhero feats to everyday fun. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.