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:
Elmhurst Local Author Fair
Sat., Aug. 29, 2026, 10am-1pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Elmhurst Public Library
125 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Come discover the work of talented authors from the Elmhurst area! Dr. Annette Bochenek will be at the Elmhurst Local Author Fair, signing and selling copies of Hometowns to Hollywood: Volumes I & II, along with her latest release, We’re in the Money: The Gold Diggers Film Series. Come say hello, meet local authors, and find your next great read! LEARN MORE HERE.
Reel Independence: The Spirit of 1776 in Classic Hollywood
Thurs., Sept. 3, 2026, 1:30pm-2:30pm ET
Bronxville 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. REGISTER HERE.
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. NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Reel Independence: The Spirit of 1776 in Classic Hollywood
Thurs., Sept. 24, 2026, 11am-12pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Park Forest Public Library
400 Lakewood Blvd, Park Forest, IL 60466
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. REGISTER HERE.
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.
Reel Independence: The Spirit of 1776 in Classic Hollywood
Mon., Oct. 5, 2026, 1:30pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Encore Village of Schaumburg
350 W Schaumburg Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60194
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. PRIVATE EVENT.
The Women Who Built Hollywood
Weds., Oct. 7, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
AAUW–Elmhurst | Hosted at Elmhurst Public Library
125 S Prospect Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Women have been highly influential in the film industry ever since the Silent Era, both on-screen and off. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about the lives and legacies of some of classic Hollywood’s incredible female directors and stars who possessed a keen sense of business acumen and innovation during the early days of the film industry. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.
A Hollywood Halloween
Mon., Oct. 12, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
Creep into the spooky side of classic Hollywood! From beloved classic horror films to lesser-known gems, explore the variety of classic horror films and characters as well as how the genre was developed to entertain audiences of all ages. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the production of impactful classic horror films, notable stars of the genre, and the legacy of these films and stars today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.
LatinX in Hollywood
Mon., Oct. 12, 2026, 6pm-7pm 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.
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.
Hitchcock: The Master of Suspense
Thurs., Oct. 15, 2026, 6pm-7pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Worth Public Library
6917 W 111th St., Worth, IL 60482
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.
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.
Shakespeare Goes to Hollywood
Tues., Oct. 27, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Free Online Program via Zoom
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.
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.
From Stardom to Sundance: The Legacy of Robert Redford
Weds., Nov. 4, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT
Winnetka-Northfield Public 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.
Movie Melodies: The Music of Rodgers & Hammerstein
Mon., Nov. 9, 2026, 3pm-4pm ET
Bronxville Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
Many beloved classic Hollywood musicals were brought to life by the musical talents of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about Rodgers and Hammerstein’s influence on classic films, some of their most popular songs represented in films, and their legacies 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.
Hitchcock: The Master of Suspense
Tues., Nov. 24, 2026, 9am-10am CT (IN-PERSON)
Patty Turner Center
375 Elm St, Deerfield, IL 60015
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.
Sibling Stars of Classic Hollywood
Tues., Nov. 24, 2026, 1pm-2pm CT
CJE SeniorLife
Free Online Program via Zoom
In classic Hollywood, show business often ran in the family. Whether working together or apart, many talented siblings entertained movie-going audiences during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about a variety of talented classic Hollywood siblings, their careers, and their legacies today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.
A Classic Hollywood Christmas: Part I
Mon., Dec. 7, 2026, 6pm-7pm PT
Torrance Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
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.
Spotlight on Biopics
Weds., Dec. 9, 2026, 6pm-7pm CT
Newberry Library
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.
Hollywood in Bloom
Fri., Dec. 11, 2026, 11am-12pm CT (Luncheon following) (IN-PERSON)
Cress Creek Garden Club | Hosted at Arrowhead Golf Club
26W151 Butterfield Rd., Wheaton, IL 60189
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.
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.
A Classic Television Christmas
Mon., Dec. 21, 2026, 3pm-4pm ET
Bronxville Public Library
Free Online Program via Zoom
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. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.
Scrooge Through the Years
Mon., Dec. 21, 2026, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Indian Trails Public Library
355 N Schoenbeck Rd, Wheeling, IL 60090
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.
Hitchcock: The Master of Suspense
Weds., Jan. 20, 2027, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
White Oak Library District–Romeoville Branch
6917 W 111th St., Worth, IL 60482
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.
Hollywood Goes to the Library
Sat., Jan. 23, 2027, 2pm-3pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Naperville Public Library–Nichols Library
200 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
Librarians and libraries have been portrayed throughout classic films, spanning many genres. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents depictions of librarians and libraries in classic films as well as the influence of special real-life librarians upon the film industry. 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.
You’ve Got Rom-Coms!
Tues., Feb 2, 2027, 7pm-8pm CT
Winnetka-Northfield Public Library
Free 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. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.
Hollywood, I Love You: Classics That Inspired Nora Ephron
Thurs., Feb. 4, 2027, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Naperville Public Library–95th Street Library
3015 Cedar Glade Dr., Naperville, IL 60564
Nora Ephron often paid tribute to the classic Hollywood films she treasured, weaving their romance, humor, and unforgettable moments into her own stories. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation that explores the timeless movies, stars, and directors that inspired her work, from The Shop Around the Corner and An Affair to Remember to the influences behind When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, and You’ve Got Mail. Discover how Ephron blended the charm of Hollywood’s Golden Age with her own distinctive voice to create some of cinema’s most enduring romantic comedies. The registration link will be made available closer to the presentation date.
Movie Melodies: The Music of the Gershwins
Tues., Feb. 9, 2027, 1pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
Many beloved classic Hollywood films made all the more memorable by the musical talents of brothers George and Ira Gershwin. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about the influence of the Gershwins in classic film, some of their most popular songs represented in film, and their legacies 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
Thurs., Feb. 18, 2027, 1:30pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON) [HOLD]
Wood Dale Public Library
520 N Wood Dale Rd, Wood Dale, IL 60191
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.
The Women Who Built Hollywood
Tues., Mar. 9, 2027, 6:30pm-7:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
AAUW–Downers Grove | Hosted at TBD
TBD
Women have been highly influential in the film industry ever since the Silent Era, both on-screen and off. Join film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation about the lives and legacies of some of classic Hollywood’s incredible female directors and stars who possessed a keen sense of business acumen and innovation during the early days of the film industry. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories.
Hollywood in Bloom
Thurs., Mar. 11, 2027, 7pm-8pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Park Ridge Garden Club | Hosted at Centennial Activity Center
100 S Western Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068
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.
Sibling Stars of Classic Hollywood
Mon., Mar. 22, 2027, 1pm-2:30pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Oakton Community College–Skokie Campus
7701 Lincoln Ave, Skokie, IL 60077
In classic Hollywood, show business often ran in the family. Whether working together or apart, many talented siblings entertained movie-going audiences during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents about a variety of talented classic Hollywood siblings, their careers, and their legacies today. The program will include a multimedia presentation consisting of photos, video clips, and captivating stories. PRIVATE EVENT.
Hollywood in Bloom (PENDING)
Thurs., Mar. 25, 2027, [12pm Arrival; Program 1pm-2pm CT] (IN-PERSON)
Late Bloomers Garden Club | Edgewater Del Webb
2554 Edgewater Dr., Elgin, IL 60124
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.
The History of the Hollywood Musical
Thurs., Apr. 1, 2027, 12pm-1pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Pottawatomie Community Center
8 North Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
While musicals have their roots on the stage, their transition to the big screen took Hollywood by storm. At the same time, it also presented many challenges for the film industry. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she presents the history of classic Hollywood musicals, some of the top musical stars, and more. 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 3, 2027, 1pm-2pm CT (IN-PERSON)
Naperville Public Library–95th Street 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.
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