Click on any entry in Barry Bradford’s Speaking Schedule for full details.
Cultural History
Mel Brooks
Private VenueMel Brooks wrote, directed, and starred in some of the funniest movies of all time. He even wrote the music for them! As a TV writer, working for the great Sid Caesar, Mel Brooks contributed to perhaps the funniest TV … Continue reading
TV By The Decades: Television in the 1960s
Private VenueTV in the 1960s The 1960s were definitely one of TV's oddest decades! The 1960s began with Westerns dominating the ratings! The old West soap opera Bonanza became the most popular show on the air. One after another competing show … Continue reading
The Mafia And The Building Of Las Vegas
Private VenueFabulous Las Vegas has gone through several fascinating eras! It was a desert town that grew when the railroads came through. Las Vegas accommodated the railroad workers, a wide-open culture of brothels, saloons, and gambling developed in the dusty desert … Continue reading
Steve Martin
Lake Forest Library 360 E. Deerpath Road, Lake Forest, IL, United StatesA common cliché in show business is to refer to someone as "one of a kind." Often that is hyperbole. But in the case of Steve Martin, it is literally true! There is no one who has a skill set … Continue reading
Rita Hayworth – American Royalty
Private VenueRita Hayworth - American Royalty The pin-up photo of Rita Hayworth hung above the bunks of World War II American soldiers, airmen and sailors, and airmen all over the world. She was called "The Love Goddess," and Fred Astaire declared … Continue reading
Walt Disney – Animating America
Private VenueIt is no overstatement to say that Walt Disney is one of the most influential Americans of all time. His name alone has become synonymous with forms of entertainment and recreation known throughout the world. To call something "Disneyesque" or … Continue reading
Offbeat Broadway
North Shore Senior Center 161 Northfield Road, NorthfieldThe 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
The Life And The Films Of Paul Newman
Private VenueThe 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
Audra McDonald
Private VenueAudra McDonald is a phenomenally talented singer. Her range is otherworldly! The amazing Audra McDonald has sung everything from Broadway to popular music to opera and earned acclaim at every turn. Audra Mcdonald is also a passionately committed humanitarian, recognized … Continue reading
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