Click on any entry in Barry Bradford’s Speaking Schedule for full details.

Gene Kelly

Private Venue

It is one of the single most iconic moments in the history of the movies: Gene Kelly dancing with absolute joy in a rainstorm in Singing In The Rain. That unforgettable moment showcases so many things - a brilliant dancer and … Continue reading

Irving Berlin

Cook Memorial Library 413 N. Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, United States

Irving Berlin has often been called the quintessential American songwriter of all time.  This is high praise for anyone – especially for an uneducated young immigrant from Russia who came to America not speaking a word of English. As with … Continue reading

Rodgers And Hammerstein

Cook Memorial Library 413 N. Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, United States

So, just how good were Rodgers and Hammerstein? In a 16-year career, they wrote 11 musicals. Six of those musicals are among the very best ever produced! The greatest  hits of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II include: √ Oklahoma … Continue reading

George Gershwin

Cook Memorial Library 413 N. Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, United States

In 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 worldwide. … Continue reading

Cole Porter – Risque Master Of American Music

Private Venue

Cole 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

Women Writers Of Broadway Musicals

North Shore Senior Center 161 Northfield Road, Northfield

With 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

Gene Kelly

Private Venue

It is one of the single most iconic moments in the history of the movies: Gene Kelly dancing with absolute joy in a rainstorm in Singing In The Rain. That unforgettable moment showcases so many things - a brilliant dancer and … Continue reading

The King And I – Story Of The Real Anna

Private Venue

"The King and I " is one of the most beloved musicals. The gorgeous music, lavish sets, phenomenal costumes, and fascinating storyline combine to make The King and I a musical that has had decades of popularity on Broadway and … Continue reading

$5

Women Writers Of Broadway Musicals

Highland Park Country Club 1201 Park Avenue West, Highland Park IL, IL, United States

With 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

Sid Caesar – The Meteoric Career Of A Comic Genius

Private Venue

In the opinion of many TV critics, the Sid Caesar programs were the funniest , best-written and most creative shows in the history of television comedy. Caesar's writing crew (including Carl Reiner, Woody Allen, Mel Brooks, Neil Simon, and Selma … Continue reading

$5