Fred Astaire: Style and Grace on Screen

“Can't sing. Can’t act. Balding. Dances a little.” – Hollywood lore says these were the notes some unnamed studio executive wrote after seeing a screen test for dancer Fred Astaire. Not only was Astaire one of the best dancers on screen, but he also changed the way dance sequences in movies were filmed. A discussion of his talent and presentation of some of his best dance numbers.​

 

The Girl with the Voice: Judy Garland's Life Before and Beyond the Rainbow

Judy Garland is considered one of Hollywood's greatest legends. We'll explore her extraordinary career, from her early years as a child star to her legendary concerts at Carnegie Hall, delving into the triumphs and tribulations of "the girl with the voice" and examining her iconic roles and enduring influence, while also shedding light on the personal struggles that haunted her life "beyond the rainbow."

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It's Good to be King: The High-Octane Humor of Mel Brooks.

From the Borscht Belt to the Oscar stage, Mel Brook has spent a century making the world laugh. Explore the life and legacy of this Emmy-, Grammy-, Oscar- and Tony-winning powerhouse who conquered Broadway, TV, and film, and dive into his "fearless" brand of satire. We'll look at how he turned taboos into comedy gold in classics like The Producers and Blazing Saddles. Celebrate a career built on wit, heart, and pure chutzpah.

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Stars Who Served in World War II

​The entertainment industry changed the war effort, not only through individuals serving in the military, but also through fundraising efforts and the films themselves. Entertainment and informational programs were created for civilians and soldiers overseas and, in general boosted their morale. A large number of stars put their careers on hold to serve their country. Whether they entertained the troops or served in battle, these stars deserve to be honored.

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The Tramp and the Titan: The Creative Genius of Charlie Chaplin

Explore the extraordinary journey of Charlie Chaplin, the "Little Tramp" who became cinema's first global superstar. From his impoversed London childhood to his revolutionary work as a director and composer, we examine his unparalleled comedic timing and the political controversies that eventually led to his exile. Peel back the greasepaint to discover the complex man who taught the world to laugh.​