Click on any entry in Barry Bradford’s Speaking Schedule for full details.
Cultural History
Benjamin Franklin
North Shore Senior Center 161 Northfield Road, NorthfieldBenjamin Franklin has been called "The First American." Certainly, there is no life that can compare to his. Benjamin Franklin was one of the most successful businessmen in American history. Although Franklin started his life in poverty, he grew to … Continue reading
Great Fortunes Of The Gilded Age (Astor/Vanderbilt)
ZoomDuring the Gilded Age, America saw a handful of families dominate the economy with staggering fortunes. If I asked you to name the richest American, you'd probably say Bill Gates or Jeff Bezos. Both are from the top of the … Continue reading
Cary Grant
ZoomCary Grant was one of the most iconic stars in the entire history of classic Hollywood cinema. The man who was born Archibald Leach made more than 50 films as a leading man and yet never won a competitive Academy … Continue reading
The Life And The Films Of Paul Newman
Northbrook Senior Center 3323 Walters Ave, Northbrook, United StatesThe Life And The Films Of Paul Newman Paul Newman was one of the greatest movie stars of all time. Certainly among the most handsome actors ever to grace the silver screen, Paul Newman's brilliant filmography proved that … Continue reading
Cole Porter – Risque Master Of American Music
Northbrook Senior Center 3323 Walters Ave, Northbrook, United StatesCole Porter is one of the greatest songwriters in American history. His melodies were sublime. His lyrics were creative, witty, sophisticated, original, and naughty. Cole Porter was the ultimate European-oriented sophisticate - yet he was born in tiny Peru, Indiana! … Continue reading
Life And Career Of Robert Redford
Suffern Free Library 210 Lafayette Ave, Suffern, NY, United StatesRobert Redford is one of the most popular American movie actors of all time. Although he was initially thought of as just a "pretty boy" presence, like Tyrone Power and Paul Newman before him, Robert Redford proved to be a … Continue reading
Mary Tyler Moore
Private VenueNot only did Mary Tyler Moore “turn the world on with her smile,” as her iconic show’s theme song declared, she also influenced a generation of women to become more independent and to pursue successful and fulfilling careers. Moore’s own 50-plus-year … Continue reading
Jimmy Cagney
ZoomJimmy Cagney was many things. He was a world-class dancer, a serious actor, a loyal friend, a radical liberal who became an extremely conservative Republican, a farmer, sailor, and a jockey. Cagney served as a Union President and proudly received … Continue reading
Offbeat Broadway
Private VenueThe Tony Awards are right around the corner, so let's celebrate with laughs and some great music! I've learned that some Broadway musicals that are not big hits still produce unforgettable music, delightful characters, and fascinating plots. If you think … Continue reading
Julia Child: Spy And Chef
Cary Area Public Library 1606 Three Oaks Road, Cary, IL, United StatesJulia Child: Spy And Chef In 1963 Julia Child became the first national superstar chef on TV.! Her program "The French Chef" was so influential that the Smithsonian Institute features her kitchen, intact, as a permanent exhibit! Julia Child changed the way … Continue reading