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 showcase 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:

Based on the Book: From Page to Picture (Part I)
Weds., Nov. 5, 2025, 7pm-8pm CT
Glencoe Public Library
Virtual Program via Zoom
Many classic films were inspired by books, with movie studios putting their own “Hollywood touch” on the story. What compelled studios to create these films and make changes? Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about classic films based upon books as well as a discussion of comparisons between the text and film. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.

Making of a Classic: The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Fri., Nov. 7, 3pm-4pm ET
Bronxville Public Library
Free Online Presentation via Zoom
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.

Emerald Roots: Baum, Chicago, and the Road to Oz
Sun., Nov. 9, 2025, 3pm-4pm CT
Bartlett Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Explore the fascinating intersection of imagination, industry, and identity in the life of L. Frank Baum—author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz—and his deep ties to the city of Chicago. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation tracing Baum’s journey from a struggling writer to the creator of one of America’s most enduring fairy tales, spotlighting how the vibrant energy of turn-of-the-century Chicago helped shape the magical world of Oz. From the White City of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition to the rise of American consumerism, this program highlights the real-world roots behind Oz’s iconic yellow brick roads and emerald towers in addition to examining Baum’s legacy today. The 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)
Thurs., Nov. 13, 6pm-7pm ET
Sandusky Public Library
Free Online Presentation via Zoom
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.

Making of a Classic: The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Thurs., Nov. 20, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Fremont Public Library
1170 N Midlothian Rd., Mundelein, IL 60060
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.

Dressing the Stars
Tues., Nov. 25, 2025, 1pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
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. PRIVATE EVENT.