An Afternoon or Evening with John Steinbeck

Nobel Prize recipient John Steinbeck has written many classic works that have been woven into the American literary canon. Steinbeck will return to reflect upon his life and writings, as well as what has happened since his death. Steinbeck's focus will be on his last two books, both non-fiction: Travels with Charley in search of America and America and Americans. John Steinbeck will be portrayed by scholar Tom Lorentzen.

Tuesday, January 12, 2 pm & 7 pm

An Afternoon or Evening with Aviator Bessie Coleman

Bessie Coleman was an American aviator in a time when female pilots were extremely rare. In 1921 she became the first woman of both African American and Native American decent to earn an international pilots license. She became a successful air show pilot in the United States and dreamed of starting a school for African-American fliers. Bessie Coleman will be portrayed by actress Betty Slater.

Tuesday, March 5, 2 pm & 7 pm

An Afternoon or Evening with Eleanor Roosevelt

War is always a controversial topic, but for Eleanor Roosevelt during World War II the stakes were very high as she navigated between her ideals for peace, and her role as the First Lady of a country embroiled in the largest war the planet had ever seen. Eleanor Roosevelt will be portrayed by Chautauqua scholar and actress Susan Marie Frontczak.

Tuesday, April 9, 2 pm & 7 pm

An Afternoon or Evening with Harry S. Truman

During his few weeks as Vice President, Harry Truman scarcely saw President Franklin Roosevelt and received no briefing on the development of the atomic bomb or the unfolding difficulties with Soviet Russia. Suddenly these and a host of other wartime problems became Truman's to solve when he became America's 33rd President. Truman will be portrayed by actor Peter Small.

Tuesday, May 21, 2 pm & 7 pm

An Afternoon or Evening with King Henry VIII

Once described as one of the most charismatic rulers to sit on the English throne, King Henry VIII is known in modern times for his six marriages and his role in the separation of the Church of England from the Roman Catholic Church. Professor, author, historian and Chautauqua Frank Mullen. will be reprising his role as King Henry VIII.

Tuesday, June 11, 2 pm & 7 pm

An Afternoon or Evening with Nathaniel Hawthorne

Hear the works of American author Nathaniel Hawthorne from the author himself as a young man. Hawthorne, being a reclusive writer, did not enjoy public appearances and never read his works at public assemblies during his lifetime. However for this special public assembly, Hawthorne will return to read some of his short works which explore the dark side of human nature. The famed author will be portrayed by literary historian Rob Velella.

Tuesday, July 9, 7 pm

An Evening with WWII Winston Churchill

Much has happened since we last heard from Winston Churchill shortly after WWI. The beloved Prime Minister will share what he remembers of the trials and difficulties of WWII and parts of the inspiring speeches he offered over the airwaves in those dark days. He will recall the unconquerable will of the British people and the friendship he formed with President Roosevelt. Kevin Radaker, professor and Chautauqua scholar, will be reprising his role as Winston Churchill.

Tuesday, August 13, 2 pm & 7 pm

An Afternoon or Evening with Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso is a name synonymous with modern art. He was a Spanish painter, sculptor, printmaker, ceramicist, poet, and playwright. He is regarded as one of the most influential and innovative artists of the 20th century. Historian, actor, and scholar Doug Mishler will be portraying the famous artist.

Tuesday, September 24, 2 pm & 7 pm

An Afternoon or Evening with William Clark

Hear from one of America's greatest explorers, William Clark, who along with Meriwether Lewis, led the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804 to 1806 across the Louisiana Purchase. He will recall his time as an explorer, soldier, planter, Indian agent, territorial governor, and Superintendent of Indian Affairs. Scholar and actor Hal Stearns will portray William Clark.

Tuesday, January 15, 2 pm & 7 pm

An Afternoon or Evening with George Burns

Back by popular demand is comedic legend George Burns. At 100 years young, George Burns left a legacy of laughs as one of the few entertainers whose career spanned vaudeville, film, radio, and television. Film and Broadway actor Duffy Hudson will reprise his role as Burns in this musically entertaining portrayal of the beloved cigar smoking comedian.