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:

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.

Backwards in Heels: The Legacy of Ginger Rogers
Mon., Jan. 19, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT
Winnetka-Northfield Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
While Ginger Rogers is easily considered to be one-half of the most iconic dancing duo in cinematic history, she achieved so much in her on- and off-screen life. She danced her way through many beloved films while also challenging herself with other performance styles and on-screen innovations. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about Rogers’s early years in Missouri, Hollywood career, and legacy today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. REGISTER HERE.

Judy Garland: A Star for the Ages
Thurs., Jan. 22, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Online Program via Zoom
Judy Garland is known as one of the most popular singers of her day. From her early days as a child actress to becoming an iconic star, Garland remains a beloved talent to this day. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about Garland’s early years in Minnesota, her time in Hollywood, and her legacy today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories.

Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales in Film
Tues., Jan. 27, 2026, 4pm-5pm ET
Bronxville Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
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.

Hollywood Valentine: Married at the Movies
Tues., Feb. 3, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Poplar Creek Public Library
1405 S Park Ave, Streamwood, IL 60107
Love is in the air in classic Hollywood! Many beloved Hollywood classics featured wedding scenes across a broad range of film genres. In real life, many film stars also happened to have high-profile and eagerly anticipated weddings. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents memorable classic film wedding moments, both on the screen and off. 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.

Elizabeth Taylor: Actress and Activist
Mon., Feb. 9, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Willowbrook Community Resource Center
825 Midway Dr, Willowbrook, IL 60527
Elizabeth Taylor is known as one of the most beautiful and talented actresses in Hollywood history. From her early days as a child actress to becoming a confident woman in the industry, Taylor remains an iconic talent to this day. Join film historian Annette Bochenek for a presentation about Taylor’s early days in England, her time in Hollywood, and her legacy today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

You’ve Got Rom-Coms!
Mon., Feb. 9, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Fremont Public Library
1170 N Midlothian Rd., Mundelein, IL 60060
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. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.

Hollywood Valentine: Married at the Movies
Tues., Feb. 10, 2026, 2pm-3pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Park Ridge Public Library
20 S. Prospect Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068
Love is in the air in classic Hollywood! Many beloved Hollywood classics featured wedding scenes across a broad range of film genres. In real life, many film stars also happened to have high-profile and eagerly anticipated weddings. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents memorable classic film wedding moments, both on the screen and off. 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.

Shakespeare and Stardust: The Romance of Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier
Weds., Feb. 11, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Cary Area Public Library
1606 Three Oaks Rd, Cary, IL 60013
Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier were two of the most iconic figures in the history of theatre and film. From their first meeting to their rise as Hollywood royalty, this presentation explores how their partnership charmed audiences worldwide. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about their legendary performances, turbulent romance, and legacies today. 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.

Chicago in the Classics
Tues., Feb. 17, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Chestnut Square at the Glen
2601 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL 60026
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 and Stardust: The Romance of Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier
Thurs., Feb. 19, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN PERSON)
Naperville Public Library–95th St Library
3015 Cedar Glade Dr., Naperville, IL 60564
Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier were two of the most iconic figures in the history of theatre and film. From their first meeting to their rise as Hollywood royalty, this presentation explores how their partnership charmed audiences worldwide. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about their legendary performances, turbulent romance, and legacies today. 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.

Based on the Book: From Page to Picture (Part II)
Thurs., Feb. 19, 2026, 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.

Hollywood Valentine: Married at the Movies
Fri., Feb. 20, 2026, 1:30pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Covenant Living at Windsor Park
124 Windsor Park Dr., Carol Stream, IL 60188
Love is in the air in classic Hollywood! Many beloved Hollywood classics featured wedding scenes across a broad range of film genres. In real life, many film stars also happened to have high-profile and eagerly anticipated weddings. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents memorable classic film wedding moments, both on the screen and off. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.

Tinseltown Touchdown: Football in Film
Mon., Feb. 23, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Prospect Heights Public Library
12 N Elm St., Prospect Heights, IL 60070
From featuring small-town underdogs to campus heroes, football-centric films have long served as a backdrop for character growth and cultural commentary in classic Hollywood films. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about how the sport was portrayed during the Golden Age of Hollywood across film genres. 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.

Hollywood Valentine: Married at the Movies
Mon., Feb. 23, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Chicago Ridge Public Library
10400 Oxford Ave, Chicago Ridge, IL 60415
Love is in the air in classic Hollywood! Many beloved Hollywood classics featured wedding scenes across a broad range of film genres. In real life, many film stars also happened to have high-profile and eagerly anticipated weddings. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents memorable classic film wedding moments, both on the screen and off. 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
Tues., Feb. 24, 2026, 1pm-2pm (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave., Skokie, IL 60077
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. PRIVATE EVENT.

A Night at the Oscars: Academy Awards History
Weds., Feb. 25, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
White Oak Library–Lockport Branch
121 E 8th St, Lockport, IL 60441
It’s time to get red carpet-ready! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of the Academy Awards and some of its memorable moments, while also showcasing previous Best Picture winners and this year’s Best Picture nominees. 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.

Jack Benny: An Illinois Original
Sat., Feb. 28, 2026, 3-4pm CST (IN-PERSON)
DeKalb Public Library
309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL 60115
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 upon 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. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.

Shakespeare Goes to Hollywood
Mon., Mar. 2, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Willowbrook Community Resource Center
825 Midway Dr, Willowbrook, IL 60527
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.

A Night at the Oscars: Academy Awards History
Mon., Mar. 2, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Indian Trails Public Library
355 Schoenbeck Rd, Wheeling, IL 60090
It’s time to get red carpet-ready! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of the Academy Awards and some of its memorable moments, while also showcasing previous Best Picture winners and this year’s Best Picture nominees. 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.

Rita Hayworth: The Love Goddess
Tues., Mar. 3, 2026, 9am-10am CT (IN-PERSON)
Patty Turner Center
375 Elm St, Deerfield, IL 60015
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.

You’ve Got Rom-Coms!
Tues., Mar. 3, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
NA’AMAT USA
Online Program via Zoom
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.

A Night at the Oscars: Best Actress Spotlight
Weds., Mar. 4, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT
Mid-Continent Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Oscar night is Hollywood’s biggest night, with nominees hoping to bring home the most coveted award in the industry. Among them is the Best Actress award, celebrating noteworthy performances by actresses during the award year. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about memorable Best Actress moments during Oscar ceremonies of years past, as well as exciting victories and shocking upsets. 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.

TBD
Thurs., Mar. 5, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Free Program Online Via Zoom
TBD

A Night at the Oscars: Academy Awards History
Thurs., Mar. 5, 2026, 7pm-8pm ET
Bernards Township Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
It’s time to get red carpet-ready! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of the Academy Awards and some of its memorable moments, while also showcasing previous Best Picture winners and this year’s Best Picture nominees. 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 Night at the Oscars: Academy Awards History
Sat., Mar. 7, 2026, 2pm-3pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Berwyn Public Library
2701 S. Harlem Ave., Berwyn, IL 60402
It’s time to get red carpet-ready! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of the Academy Awards and some of its memorable moments, while also showcasing previous Best Picture winners and this year’s Best Picture nominees. 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 Night at the Oscars: Academy Awards History
Mon., Mar. 9, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Hillside Public Library
405 Hillside Avenue, Hillside, IL 60162
It’s time to get red carpet-ready! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of the Academy Awards and some of its memorable moments, while also showcasing previous Best Picture winners and this year’s Best Picture nominees. 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 Night at the Oscars: Academy Awards History
Tues., Mar. 10, 2026, 2pm-3pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Lake Villa District Library
140 N Munn Rd., Lindenhurst, IL  60046
It’s time to get red carpet-ready! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of the Academy Awards and some of its memorable moments, while also showcasing previous Best Picture winners and this year’s Best Picture nominees. 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 Night at the Oscars: Academy Awards History
Weds., Mar. 11, 2026, 10am-11am CT (IN-PERSON)
The Little Traveler | Hosted at the Geneva History Museum
113 S 3rd St, Geneva, IL 60134
It’s time to get red carpet-ready! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of the Academy Awards and some of its memorable moments, while also showcasing previous Best Picture winners and this year’s Best Picture nominees. 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 Night at the Oscars: Best Picture Spotlight
Fri., Mar. 13, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Aram Public Library | Hosted at TBD
TBD
It’s time to get red carpet ready and delve into the history of the Best Picture category! Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the evolution of the Best Picture category, memorable Best Picture contenders, and this year’s nominees. 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.

TBD
Weds., Apr. 15, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
North Shore Congregation Israel
1185 Sheridan Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022
TBD

Hollywood in Bloom
Fri., Apr. 24, 2026, TBD CT
Lombard Garden Club
TBD
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.

The RMS Titanic on the Silver Screen (1912-1964)
Thurs., April 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.

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.

Hold That Ghost (1941) Screening
Sat., June 6, 2026, TBD ET (IN-PERSON)
TBD
TBD
TBD

Queer in Hollywood: LGBTQ+ Depictions in Classic Film
Thurs., June 18, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Naperville Public Library–95th St Library
3015 Cedar Glade Dr., Naperville, IL 60564
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
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.

Ladies of Laughter: Great Comediennes
Weds., July 22, 2026, 6:30pm-7:30pm (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.

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.

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.

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
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.