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:

Making of a Classic: The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Tues., Dec. 2, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT
Mid-Continent Public Library
Free Online Program 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.

A Classic Hollywood Christmas: Part I
Thurs., Dec. 4, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Palos Heights Public Library
12501 S. 71st Ave, Palos Heights, IL 60463
Ring in the holidays with some classic movie magic! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of several beloved holiday classics from the Golden Age of Hollywood, memorable performances, and the legacies of these films today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.

Scrooge Through the Years
Weds., Dec. 10, 2025, 6pm-7pm CT
Newberry Library
Online Program via Zoom
Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol inspired many film adaptations and notable portrayals of his novella’s protagonist, Scrooge. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents various classic iterations of A Christmas Carol, memorable moments and portrayals, as well as the legacy of Scrooge and Dickens today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. This program costs $40.50 for Newberry members/seniors/students and $45 for non-members. REGISTER HERE.

The Evolution of Oz
Thurs., Dec. 11, 2025, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Warrenville Public Library
28W751 Stafford Pl, Warrenville, IL 60555
Long before Judy Garland famously clicked her heels in MGM’s 1939 classic, The Wizard of Oz had already captured the imagination of audiences through a series of earlier productions. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation that explores the rich and often overlooked history of The Wizard of Oz before its most iconic film adaptation. From L. Frank Baum’s original 1900 novel to the groundbreaking 1902 stage musical and the silent film adaptations of the 1910s and 1920s, we’ll examine how this beloved tale evolved through different media and interpretations. Join us as we uncover the creative choices, cultural contexts, and theatrical innovations that laid the foundation for one of the most enduring stories in American pop culture. REGISTER HERE.

A Classic Television Christmas
Mon., Dec. 15, 2025, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Niles-Maine District Library
6960 W Oakton St, Niles, IL 60714
As television grew in popularity, so did the seasonal Christmas special. Many classic television shows portray their beloved characters celebrating the holidays and entertaining special guests–including Santa! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about classic television Christmas shows and what made them special. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.

Sitcom Spotlight: I Love Lucy
Tues., Dec. 30, 2025, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Online Program via Zoom
I Love Lucy was an iconic and groundbreaking sitcom that is well worth celebrating. Developed and brought to the screen by television pioneers. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about the history and development of I Love Lucy, the show’s on- and off-screen achievements, and the legacy of the show today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.