Events

Dr. Annette Bochenek loves to take Hometowns to Hollywood on the road 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. Unless otherwise noted, attendance is free of charge.

To learn more about booking Hometowns to Hollywood at your organization, click here.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Emerald Roots: Baum, Chicago, and the Road to Oz
Mon., Mar. 23, 2026, 1pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave., Skokie, IL 60077
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. PRIVATE EVENT.

Dynamic Duos: Classic Comedy Partnerships
Tues., Mar. 31, 2026, 1:30pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Encore Village of Schaumburg–Bridgegate
350 W. Schaumburg Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60194
Whether over the airwaves or on the silver screen, the classic comedy genre benefited from many beloved comedic partnerships. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents early comedy’s top partnerships, including Abbott & Costello, Burns & Allen, Laurel & Hardy, Martin & Lewis, and more. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Hollywood Goes to the Beach
Mon., Apr. 6, 2026, 6pm-7pm ET (IN-PERSON)
New Buffalo Township Library
33 N. Thompson St, New Buffalo, MI 49117
Taking full advantage of sunny California’s climate, classic Hollywood films frequently featured beach sequences and sun-drenched stars. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she explores classic Hollywood stars and their ties to beach films, the beach movies’ influence on fashion, and memorable beach movie moments. 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.

From Stardom to Sundance: The Legacy of Robert Redford
Tues., Apr. 7, 2026, 7pm-8pm ET
Somerset County Library System of New Jersey
Free Online Program via Zoom
From his breakout role in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to his groundbreaking work as a director, producer, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, Robert Redford has left an indelible mark on American cinema. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about Redford’s evolution from Hollywood leading man to champion of independent film, highlighting his iconic performances, Academy Award–winning directorial achievements, and influence in shaping a new generation of filmmakers. 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.

Betty White: A Lifetime of Laughter
Weds., Apr. 8, 2026, 6pm-7pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Carillon Club–Naperville
4003 Idlewild Ln., Naperville, IL 60564
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 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. PRIVATE EVENT.

The Public Domain: Class of 2026
Tues., Apr. 14, 2026, 1pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave., Skokie, IL 60077
On January 1, 2026, a landmark moment in cultural history occurred as the works of 1930 officially entered the public domain. This includes a rich array of books, films, songs, and art from the 1920s, opening the door to a treasure trove of creative content now freely available to explore, share, and build upon. From Bing Crosby’s feature film debut in King of Jazz to the first screen adaptation of All Quiet on the Western Front, this is a pivotal moment for both film enthusiasts and creators alike. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for an insightful presentation on the Public Domain Class of 2026, where she will explore the fascinating histories and lasting legacies of a selection of films that have just become part of the public domain. PRIVATE EVENT.

Chicago in the Classics
Tues., Apr. 14, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Luther Village
1250 Village Dr, Arlington Heights, IL 60004
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. PRIVATE EVENT.

Shakespeare Goes to Hollywood
Weds., Apr. 15, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
North Shore Congregation Israel
1185 Sheridan Rd., Glencoe, IL 60022
Discover how the timeless works of William Shakespeare found new life on the silver screen during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation that explores how classic films reimagined the Bard’s plays with glamorous stars, inventive settings, and mid-century flair—proving that even in Hollywood, all the world’s a stage. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Betty White: A Lifetime of Laughter
Thurs., Apr. 23, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Virtual Program via Zoom
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 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. PRIVATE EVENT.

Hollywood in Bloom
Fri., Apr. 24, 2026, [11am Start; Program 1pm-2pm CT] (IN-PERSON)
Lombard Garden Club–Carlisle
435 Butterfield Rd, Lombard, IL 60148
There’s nothing quite like the beauty of nature–and classic Hollywood films surely agree. From depictions of stunning gardens and forests to flowers in bloom, classic Hollywood films have long been inspired by nature. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about the impact and symbolism of gardens, forests, and plant life in Golden Age Hollywood films. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Dynamic Duos: Classic Comedy Partnerships
Mon., Apr. 27, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Sedgebrook
800 Audubon Way, Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Whether over the airwaves or on the silver screen, the classic comedy genre benefited from many beloved comedic partnerships. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents early comedy’s top partnerships, including Abbott & Costello, Burns & Allen, Laurel & Hardy, Martin & Lewis, and more. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Shakespeare Goes to Hollywood
Weds., Apr. 29 2026, 11am-12pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Trinity Christian College
6601 W. College Dr., Palos Heights, IL 60463
Discover how the timeless works of William Shakespeare found new life on the silver screen during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation that explores how classic films reimagined the Bard’s plays with glamorous stars, inventive settings, and mid-century flair—proving that even in Hollywood, all the world’s a stage. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Spotlight on Biopics
Thurs., Apr. 30, 2026, 1:30pm-2:30pm ET
Bronxville Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Before “based on a true story” became a buzz phrase, Golden Age Hollywood was already perfecting the biopic. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about classic biographical films, revealing how movie stars, studio storytelling, and Hollywood glamour turned real people into cinematic icons. 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.

The RMS Titanic on the Silver Screen (1912-1964)
Thurs., Apr. 30, 2026, 6pm-7pm CT
Newberry Library
Online Program via Zoom
The story of the ill-fated journey of the RMS Titanic is one that is studied and memorialized all over the world. Long before audiences met Jack and Rose, numerous film studios took on portraying the story of the Titanic, sometimes featuring the survivors themselves or relying upon their narratives. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about how Golden Age Hollywood paid homage to the Titanic‘s voyage in classic films. 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.

Celluloid Road Trip: U.S. Edition
Sat., May 9, 2026, 2:30pm-3:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
DeKalb Public Library
309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL 60115
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.

Words & Music: Teams of Tin Pan Alley
Thurs., May 28, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Virtual Program via Zoom
Some of the greatest songs in American history weren’t created by a single songwriter—they were born from extraordinary creative partnerships. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation exploring the legendary songwriting teams who helped shape the sound of Broadway, Hollywood, and the Great American Songbook during the golden age of Tin Pan Alley. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories.

Queer in Hollywood: LGBTQ+ Depictions in Classic Film
Mon., June 1, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Helen Plum Library
411 S Main St, Lombard, IL 60148
Depictions of queer individuals have occurred in films dating back to the earliest days of the filmmaking industry. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents groundbreaking portrayals of queer individuals and the impact of the Production Code on their depictions in classic cinema. 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.

Hitchcock: The Master of Suspense
Weds., June 3, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Brookfield Public Library
1900 N Calhoun Rd, Brookfield, WI 53005
Indulge in the thrilling side of classic Hollywood by learning about the “Master of Suspense” himself–Alfred Hitchcock! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a discussion about Hitchcock’s career, his memorable films, and his legacy today. 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.

Queer in Hollywood: LGBTQ+ Depictions in Classic Film
Thurs., June 4, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm ET
Millbrook Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Depictions of queer individuals have occurred in films dating back to the earliest days of the filmmaking industry. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents groundbreaking portrayals of queer individuals and the impact of the Production Code on their depictions in classic cinema. 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.

Hold That Ghost (1941) Screening
Sat., June 6, 2026, TBD ET (IN-PERSON)
Ted Lewis Park
443 N. Court St., Circleville, OH 43113
In honor of Circleville’s only movie star, The Ted Lewis Museum will be screening the Universal film Hold That Ghost (1941) at the park that Lewis donated to his beloved hometown. This FREE screening is part of Ohio Goes to the Movies, a statewide celebration for America’s 250th Birthday honoring Ohio’s many contributions to film history (like Ted!). Don’t miss this classic comedy starring Abbott & Costello, The Andrews Sisters and Circleville’s First son on his 136th Birthday! Hometowns to Hollywood author and film expert Dr. Annette Bochenek will introduce the film with a special multimedia presentation. FREE ADMISSION.

From Stardom to Sundance: The Legacy of Robert Redford
Weds., June 10, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm ET
Orangeburg Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
From his breakout role in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to his groundbreaking work as a director, producer, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, Robert Redford has left an indelible mark on American cinema. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about Redford’s evolution from Hollywood leading man to champion of independent film, highlighting his iconic performances, Academy Award–winning directorial achievements, and influence in shaping a new generation of filmmakers. 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.

Queer in Hollywood: LGBTQ+ Depictions in Classic Film
Mon., June 15, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Wilmette Public Library
1242 Wilmette Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091
Depictions of queer individuals have occurred in films dating back to the earliest days of the filmmaking industry. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents groundbreaking portrayals of queer individuals and the impact of the Production Code on their depictions in classic cinema. 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.

Queer in Hollywood: LGBTQ+ Depictions in Classic Film
Tues., June 23, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Orland Park Public Library
14921 S. Ravinia Ave., Orland Park, IL 60462
Depictions of queer individuals have occurred in films dating back to the earliest days of the filmmaking industry. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents groundbreaking portrayals of queer individuals and the impact of the Production Code on their depictions in classic cinema. 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.

Queer in Hollywood: LGBTQ+ Depictions in Classic Film
Weds., June 24, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
West Chicago Public Library
118 W Washington St, West Chicago, IL 60185
Depictions of queer individuals have occurred in films dating back to the earliest days of the filmmaking industry. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents groundbreaking portrayals of queer individuals and the impact of the Production Code on their depictions in classic cinema. 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.

Reel Independence: The Spirit of 1776 in Classic Hollywood
Thurs., June 25, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT
Cook Memorial Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
In honor of the United States’ Semiquincentennial, step back in time to the founding days of America through the lens of Golden Age Hollywood. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation on classic films set during the American Revolution, ranging from the historically faithful to the boldly romanticized. 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.

Reel Independence: The Spirit of 1776 in Classic Hollywood
Sat., June 27, 2026, 11am-12pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oak Brook Public Library
600 Oak Brook Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523
In honor of the United States’ Semiquincentennial, step back in time to the founding days of America through the lens of Golden Age Hollywood. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation on classic films set during the American Revolution, ranging from the historically faithful to the boldly romanticized. 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.

Reel Independence: The Spirit of 1776 in Classic Hollywood
Mon., June 29, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT
Winnetka-Northfield Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
In honor of the United States’ Semiquincentennial, step back in time to the founding days of America through the lens of Golden Age Hollywood. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation on classic films set during the American Revolution, ranging from the historically faithful to the boldly romanticized. 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.

A Classic Hollywood Christmas: Part I
Tues., July 21, 2026, 6pm-7pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Manhattan-Elwood Public Library–Manhattan Branch
240 Whitson St., Manhattan, IL 60442
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. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.

Ladies of Laughter: Great Comediennes
Weds., July 22, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Itasca Bank & Trust Women’s Initiative
Medinah Shriners
550 Shriners Dr, Addison, IL 60101
In the early days of comedy and beyond, many top-notch classic comediennes have made audiences laugh. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about the funny women of film, television, and radio, including Gracie Allen, Lucille Ball, Eve Arden, and more. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Making of a Classic: The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Sat., July 25, 2026, TBD (IN-PERSON)
Hoosier Grove Barn
700 Irving Park Rd, Streamwood, IL 60107
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.

Songwriters on Screen
Mon., July 27, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Sedgebrook
800 Audubon Way, Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Classic Hollywood biopics often put composers and lyricists center stage, using hit songs, star performances, and bold storytelling to bring creativity to life. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents how these films celebrated—and often reinvented—the people behind the music. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Gimme a Gimmick!: The Films of William Castle
Tues., July 28, 2026, 1pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
Step right up for a wild ride through the outrageous, spine-tingling world of William Castle, the undisputed master of the movie gimmick! Known for electrifying audiences with vibrating seats, floating skeletons, and fright insurance policies, Castle turned B-movies into unforgettable cinematic spectacles. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation that explores Castle’s inventive showmanship, his most iconic films—including House on Haunted Hill, The Tingler, and 13 Ghosts—and how his over-the-top promotional tactics made him a cult legend. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Celluloid Road Trip: U.S. Edition
Tues., Aug. 11, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT
Mid-Continent Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
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. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.

Bad Boys & Girls: The Characters We Love to Hate
Thurs., Sept. 17, 2026, 6pm-7pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Manhattan-Elwood Public Library–Manhattan Branch
240 Whitson St., Manhattan, IL 60442
While many classic film characters are honorable or heroic, others were certainly the opposite. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation on the stellar performances of actors who portrayed some of the not-so-nice characters in classic Hollywood cinema—the characters who audiences loved to hate. The program will include a multimedia presentation of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.

Stars and Cars: Classic Hollywood’s Love Affair with Auburns, Cords & Duesenbergs
Sat., Oct. 3, 2026, 11am-12pm ET (IN-PERSON)
Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
1600 Wayne St, Auburn, IN 46706
Step back into the Golden Age of Hollywood, where glamour was not confined to the silver screen—it cruised down Sunset Boulevard in gleaming chrome and handcrafted elegance. From the suave charm of Clark Gable to the refined style of Marlene Dietrich, discover how these classic cars became symbols of status, taste, and cinematic legacy, connecting vintage Hollywood to American automotive artistry. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation exploring the enduring allure of Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg automobiles and the iconic stars who owned them. 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.

Hitchcock: The Master of Suspense
Fri., Oct. 9, 2026, 10am-11am CT (IN-PERSON)
Sun City Huntley
12910 Del Webb Blvd, Huntley, IL 60142
Indulge in the thrilling side of classic Hollywood by learning about the “Master of Suspense” himself–Alfred Hitchcock! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a discussion about Hitchcock’s career, his memorable films, and his legacy today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Gimme a Gimmick!: The Films of William Castle
Mon., Oct. 12, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
Step right up for a wild ride through the outrageous, spine-tingling world of William Castle, the undisputed master of the movie gimmick! Known for electrifying audiences with vibrating seats, floating skeletons, and fright insurance policies, Castle turned B-movies into unforgettable cinematic spectacles. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation that explores Castle’s inventive showmanship, his most iconic films—including House on Haunted Hill, The Tingler, and 13 Ghosts—and how his over-the-top promotional tactics made him a cult legend. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

You’ve Got Rom-Coms!
Tues., Oct. 13, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
Before text messages and meet-cutes in coffee shops, Hollywood perfected the art of falling in love on screen. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation that takes a delightful look at how romantic comedies evolved during the Golden Age—from the screwball antics of the 1930s to the sophisticated charm of the 1950s. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

LatinX in Hollywood
Tues., Oct. 20, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
St. Charles Public Library
1 S 6th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
The films of Hollywood’s Golden Age offered depictions of Latinx individuals and often featured top Latinx studio talents. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she explores a selection of the studio system’s on- and off-screen Latinx talents, discussing their stories, career accomplishments, and challenges during the studio system. 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.

That’s All, Folks!
Mon., Oct. 26, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Sedgebrook
800 Audubon Way, Lincolnshire, IL 60069
While moviegoers had many favorite actors and actresses, they also enjoyed a wide variety of hand-drawn, animated stars! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she explores the history of animation, including the work of top animation studios, and beloved animated characters. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

On-Screen Specters: Ghosts in Film
Weds., Oct. 28, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT
Fountaindale Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Classic Hollywood has incorporated depictions of ghosts across a wide array of film genres, including horror, romance, and comedy–just to name a few. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she explores various depictions of ghosts in classic cinema, the technologies used to create these illusions, and their connections to more contemporary films. 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.

On-Screen Specters: Ghosts in Film
Thurs., Oct. 29, 2026, 10am-11am CT (IN-PERSON)
The Little Traveler | Hosted at the Geneva History Museum
113 S 3rd St, Geneva, IL 60134
Classic Hollywood has incorporated depictions of ghosts across a wide array of film genres, including horror, romance, and comedy–just to name a few. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she explores various depictions of ghosts in classic cinema, the technologies used to create these illusions, and their connections to more contemporary films. 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.

Scrooge Through the Years
Thurs., Dec. 17, 2026, 7pm-8pm ET
Bernards Township Public Library
Free 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. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.