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:

A-List Animals
Tues., July 1, 2025, 2pm-3pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Lincolnwood Place
7000 N McCormick Blvd, Lincolnwood, IL 60712
While classic Hollywood had its fair share of human actors, many memorable animal stars also enjoyed success and the appreciation of audiences all over the world. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about a variety of animal performers, their careers, and their legacies today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Dressing the Stars
Tues., July 8, 2025, 7pm-8pm CT
Mid-Continent Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Thanks to the talented costume designers working in the studio system, film stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age channeled glamour and influenced fashion. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about classic Hollywood’s top costume designers, iconic costumes, and the legacy of these designs today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.

Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales in Film
Thurs., July 10, 2025, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Lake Villa District Library
140 N Munn Rd, Lindenhurst, IL 60046
Once upon a time, several classic Hollywood films were inspired by fairy tales and folklore. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about some of classic Hollywood’s takes on beloved fairy tales, including how Hollywood studios brought them to life or reimagined them, and the legacies of these tales today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.

Betty White: A Lifetime of Laughter
Weds., July 16, 2025, 10am-11am (IN-PERSON)
Geneva History Museum 
113 S 3rd St, Geneva, IL 60134
An actress and activist, comedian Betty White was a woman of many achievements both on and off the screen. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for this special birthday presentation about the early years, career highlights, and legacy of Betty White. The program will include a multimedia presentation of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. Tickets are $25 per person. BUY TICKETS HERE.
Update: Event is SOLD OUT. JOIN WAITING LIST HERE.

Chicago in the Classics
Tues., July 22, 2025, 7pm-8pm CT
Winnetka-Northfield Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
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.

Making of a Classic: The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Sat., July 26, 2pm-3pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Berwyn Public Library
2701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL 60402
Step behind the curtain and discover the magic behind the creation of one of cinema’s most beloved films. This program showcases how a groundbreaking mix of imagination, innovation, and perseverance brought the Land of Oz to life—and why the 1939 classic film continues to enchant audiences more than 80 years later. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a discussion about the production, legacy, and cultural impact of The Wizard of Oz (1939) through a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.