Click on any entry in Barry Bradford’s Speaking Schedule for full details.
Cultural History
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
The Life Of Robin Williams
Private VenueThe Life Of Robin Williams Robin Williams was one of the funniest comedians of all time. His improvisational skills were almost other-worldly! Yet behind the comic persona lay a complex man- intensely charitable and compassionate but plagued by insecurity, battling addictions, and … Continue reading
History vs. The Movies – The Bridge on the River Kwai
Syosset Public Library 225 South Oyster Bar Road, Syosset, NY, United StatesThe Bridge on the River Kwai Is One of the Greatest World War II Movies. Is It Accurate? The Bridge on the River Kwai is a masterpiece of filmmaking. The story concerns British soldiers captured by the Japanese during the … Continue reading
Broadway 2022
Northbrook Senior Center 3323 Walters Ave, Northbrook, United StatesThe situation on Broadway has been very fluid with some long-running shows closing, new shows opening, and popular shows going on hiatus during outbreaks of COVID. However, Broadway audiences are being treated to some of the best plays and … Continue reading
Sidney Poitier
Private VenueSidney Poitier is, without question, one of the greatest actors in the history of American film. Additionally, Sidney Poitier is the man who broke the color barrier in Hollywood. Like Barack Obama or Jackie Robinson, he was more than just … Continue reading
Women Writers Of Broadway Musicals
ZoomWith a few noticeable exceptions, writing lyrics for Broadway has been the domain of men. Oscar Hammerstein. Lin-Manuel Miranda. Irving Berlin. Stephen Sondheim. Call Porter. All were great! But it is no longer just a man's world! Today, we feature … Continue reading
Benjamin Franklin
Private VenueBenjamin 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
Betty White: America’s Favorite Potty Mouthed Grandma
Northbrook Senior Center 3323 Walters Ave, Northbrook, United StatesThe fabulous Betty White has been called an American national treasure - and rightly so! Up until her death at 99, Betty White was a beacon of positivity even in difficult years! Witty, working, and happy, Betty white it's a … Continue reading
George Gershwin
Private VenueIn a very short career, George Gershwin changed American music forever. He was one of the most beloved composers of music for Broadway. his songs and shows continue to be revived on the New York stage and in theaters around … Continue reading