Programs by Category

Veteran arts journalist Nick Zaino explores Boston’s long history of comedy, from vaudeville to YouTube, highlighting some of the personalities that have defined laughter in America for 100 years.
Fred

Spinning tops, Yoyo's, Indian club juggling, and the first depictions of juggling in Egypt.  This show features several circus arts from around the world.  Learn about different cultures through

A Cultural and Historical Reflection of the 1960s Through the Music of The Beatles is a 60-minute multi-media presentation that highlights the influence The Beatles had on world culture, particularly

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pottery Workshop
60 min. or 90 min. workshop

Inspired by the timeless works of Massachusetts' esteemed poets like

In “John Parker His Book, 1747 May 23”, the story of this Charlestown, Massachusetts potter comes alive as told with this powerpoint presentation. The son of the celebrated potters, Isaac

Festival Open Air Demonstration - 60 min. or 90 min. workshop
Introducing our Festival Programs Open Air Demonstration by Master Potter Rick of Pied Potter Hamelin! This informal

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pottery Workshop
60 min. or 90 min. workshop

The indigenous people of the Southwest have a saying "Every piece of

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Hands-On - 60 or 90 min. workshop  - Welcome to our hands-on workshop with a short pottery wheel demonstration! This immersive experience is perfect

We’ll unravel fascinating tales from the world of pottery. Delve into the rich history that lies behind beloved everyday phrases. Discover the origins of familiar phrases that have endured the

Introducing “Potters & Brick-Makers During a Time of War” – a captivating collection of stories that delve into the lives of potters who bravely served during the Revolutionary

This unique experience offers an insightful overview of the techniques and locations associated with these industries, specifically relevant to your area, covering the period from the Colonial era all

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pottery Workshop
60 min. or 90 min. workshop

Have you ever wondered about the fascinating history of the Paul Revere

Transport yourself back in time as you delve into the rich history of these remarkable drinking and eating vessels. Enjoy fascinating conversations about the food and drink consumed from these vessels,

Pottery Wheel Demonstration with Optional Hands-On Pinch Pottery Workshop
60 min. or 90 min. workshop

Tales of the unusual, the unknown and the unpredictable are told at this

A 45-minute musical for audiences who like to rock out. A fun show with a variety of characters from Shakespeare's classics, some jammin' tunes, an electric guitar and even the Bard himself.

The

The Headless Horseman Rides Again! Storyteller J.T. Turner portrays Washington Irving telling his most famous tale, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Taking on all the roles of this Halloween tale, Turner

Hear the stories behind Frost's work - the tragedy as well as the humor - as he shares some of his most popular poems, including Mending Wall, Birches, Nothing Gold Can Stay, Late Walk, Desert Places,

Printer, Scientist, Inventor, Author, Ambassador, Patriot - Benjamin Franklin has been called "the First American." His rich and colorful life is recounted in this wonderful one-man show.

Meet

What if......William Shakespeare, famed playwright and poet, has spent the last 400 years haunting theaters? And what would happen if he decided one evening to speak with you?

J.T. Turner, in

What if......William Shakespeare, famed playwright and poet, has spent the last 400 years haunting theaters? And what would happen if he decided one day to speak with you?

Join J.T. Turner in

The greatest storyteller in the world would like to visit with you! Aesop shares the story of his own life, which is mixed in with his classic fables such as the Tortoise and the Hare, The Lion and

Join professional actor J.T. Turner in this funny, engaging, and fascinating look at the varied and rich life of C.S. Lewis, author of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe series, famed lecturer, and

Witness the classic tale of A Christmas Carol come beautifully to life as actor J.T. Turner portrays Charles Dickens and every single character from the story in this one-man show. Charles Dickens was

A young reporter (played by your student or volunteer) interviews Charles Dickens just before a performance in Boston. Dickens relates his life story using excerpts from his major works. The program

Award-winning actor, writer, and teaching artist J.T. Turner appears as F. Scott Fitzgerald to discuss the author's own life, times, and work, with specific focus on The Great Gatsby and its protagonist

Choose from our popular American literature and history focused programs especially suited for October (but fun for any season)!:

a) WITNESS: Miller's The Crucible and the Salem "Witch"

Customize a set of traditional stories from around the world, based on your current season, learning themes, and audience, all brought to life by award-winning professional actor J.T. Turner.  All

John Muir was a brilliant inventor who went through a life changing  to become  one of the world’s most recognized and impactful  conservationists.  His writings have inspired

Have you ever had an experience that you simply cannot explain? The Ain't it Scary? with Sean & Carrie podcast covers a short history of paranormal and ghost stories in New England - from the cases

Have you ever gazed up at the stars and wondered if we are really alone here in the universe? The Ain't it Scary? with Sean & Carrie podcast's presentation covers a short history of UFOs, from early

The author lived through, and drove home through the biggest regional blizzard of the last century or more. He is the author of Arcadia Publishing's Greater Boston's Blizzard of 1978

Along with my co-author, Dr. Robert Krim, I recently published Boston Made: From Revolution to Robotics, Innovations that Changed the World. This book catalogs the deep and broad history of innovation

This program provides an overview of the MANY firsts in Bay State Libraries as well as a discussion of library leaders, pioneers and philathropists, architecturally distinctive libraries and art treasures....All

This program provides an overview of the MANY firsts in Bay State Libraries as well as a discussion of library leaders, pioneers and philathropists, architecturally distinctive libraries and art treasures....All

At the end of World War II, Eastern Massachusetts was in crisis as its traditional industries began to collapse or move. The surprising combination of a new beltway, entrepreneurs, pioneer venture capitalists,

In this structured, educational program, award-winning songwriter Alastair introduces the music that shaped and connected three of America's most important movements for social change: the Labor Rights

In this structured, educational program, award-winning songwriter Alastair Moock brings his guitar and his passion for American folk music to teach language arts skills in this lively, interactive workshop.

American folk music, like all folk music, is rooted in tradition. But the form is constantly evolving, with songwriters reworking older songs to tell new stories. In this lively, upbeat performance

This past year, numerous libraries reported breaking crowds when Alex the Jester performed his hilarious act. Inspired by the medievil fool, this delightful mischief maker will also motivate readers

Lecture & Piano Recital: Classical: Alfred will perform selections from the music of the Nutcracker Suite Ballet by Tchaikovsky. In addition he will tell the story of each scene, providing interesting

Lecture & Piano Recital: Classical Romantic Music:Chopin:

Join us for an unusual view into the history of Poland and Paris through the eyes of Chopin in the 1800's. Through his aristocratic Polish

Lecture & Piano Recital: Classical:

Alfred will perform selections from the music of the Swan Lake Ballet by Tchaikovsky. In addition, Mr. Watson will tell the story of each scene, provide interesting

Lecture & Piano Recital: Classical:

Alfred will talk about inspiration and how some composers were inspired to write their own music. Interesting anecdotes on the composers will also be included.

Lecture & Piano Recital: Classical:

Alfred will perform works by Eastern European composers. He will speak about his Polish background and some Polish history as well as his travels to Poland.

Lecture & Piano Recital: Classical:

The program will feature Alfred's award winning CD entitled "America", and many more Classical favorites. Alfred will tell the story of how each composer's

Lecture & Piano Recital: Classical:

Who better to speak to the music, culture and history of Poland, than a man who's heritage is in the Tatra Mountains of Poland? Who better to play the beloved

Andy and Veronica Fish are professional working artists-- Andy is even listed on Wikepedia-- who have worked extensively in comics, film and animation.

In addition, both are faculty members of

Online Programs: Working on pre-recorded vignettes on major developments in Printing techniques and styles, artistic movements, impact of prints, and other topics.  A pre-recorded

(note new email address: avarthistory@gmail.com)

Join Andy Volpe with an in-depth look at the Printing methods used in the New England (English) Colonies from the 1630s to 1790s, learn about

(Note: this is specifically for Online/Zoom or Slide Lecture Presentation)

In 2020, Andy hand-engraved a full-size replica copperplate of Paul Revere's "Boston Massacre", As part of

(This is Live In-Person)

Learn about the Roman Legionary soldier during the Roman Empire in the 1st Century AD/CE, In this unique and engaging presentation, utilizing the latest Archaeological

(Note: This is for a Live, In-Person active printing display)

Andy Volpe researches and prints in the same techniques of the Old Masters and early New England Colonial printers (ca 1470s

There is no doubt that the Printing Press, and rolling press, helped start the American Revolution, through newspapers, pamphlets, and graphics like Paul Revere's "Bloody Massacre", but, Printing has

The Hoosac Tunnel took 25 years to build, went bankrupt three times and came in ten times over budget. You'll be amazed at the similarities of this 19th century transportation project with a more recent

An anecdotal look at ideas, projects and products that were imagined, stolen, manufactured, developed, or otherwise associated with New England over the centuries. Includes songs.

Kids learn best by doing. Teams will drill through solid rock and porridge stone, fake obviously. We'll also sing songs about the railway accompanied by a kid-friendly ukulele as we learn about the

The rise of the textile industries across New England meant a changing population and lifestyle. Each audience member will weave on a hand loom to take home and all will sing a labor song.

A few years ago I inherited my father's World War II Army foot locker. It turned out to contain hundreds of letters and other documents from his Army service and his time working with displaced persons

So Close to Home is a fascinating look at an American family's experience during World War II when the ship they were traveling on was torpedoed by a German submarine in the Gulf of Mexico. A surviving

She was born in the 19th Century, worked to change the 20th century and her wisdom still resonates today, in the 21st century. Blanche Ames, a 20th century activist, resided in Massachusetts and fought

An interactive multicultural music program for children of all ages.

With joyful songs and games, movement and laughter, the Beautiful Future Band guides children young and old on a lively musical

"A Life of Sorrow" is a one-man show that uses storytelling and music to bring to life the saga of an Appalachian Mountain Music Legend.  As an architect of the genre of music known today as bluegrass,

'Love Letters From The Front' is a musical love story centered around the reading of actual letters from GI's, families and loved ones that are performed against the backdrop of the music from the war

American television was all set to launch in the late 1930s, but its progress was interrupted by the start of World War II. Finally, by the end of the 1940s, NBC and CBS began broadcasting to their

Fred Astaire was one of the twentieth century’s greatest magicians—his sorcery depended on making some of the most complex dancing ever seen on the screen seem as effortless as breathing.

Gene Kelly is one of the most engaging and influential dancers in motion picture history. He came at a time when movie dance was basically just a showcase for elegant partners in motion, but within

Watching television used to be a fairly simple enterprise—you turned on the set, selected one of 500 channels, and enjoyed your program. Now, television is changing in front of our eyes. More

From its start in the early 1950s, the talk show has been one of television’s most versatile and durable formats. Pioneering programs like Today, Person-to-Person, and Tonight established the

Over the last nine decades, the Walt Disney Company has transformed every facet of the entertainment business—from the creation of feature length cartoons like Snow White, Bambi, and Pinocchio,

For more than seven decades, Carl Reiner and Mel Brooks made America laugh—either through their remarkable solo careers or their legendary partnership. Whether together or apart, they were giants

Voted the most inspirational movie ever made by the American Film Institute, Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life has been a beloved Christmas classic for many generations. The snowbound

Alfred Hitchcock is probably the most famous film director who ever lived. For five decades, first in England, then in Hollywood, he made fifty-four films, including classics such as The Thirty-Nine

The morning of November 25th, 1856, Mary Chipman Lawrence set sail aboard the whaling ship Addison bound for the Pacific on a voyage that would last three and a half years. In this performance, Mary

In 1759, Martha Dandridge Custis married the handsome and successful soldier George Washington, a decision that would lead her from the battlefields of the American Revolution to the highest echelons

Meet the first woman to run a full presidential campaign, in 1884! Belva Lockwood, the first woman to be admitted to the Supreme Court Bar, will delight your audience with a lively campaign speech detailing

"Victoria Yule" welcomes you into her parlor and shares her plans for the 1895 Christmas season. Learn the history of many Christmas traditions, passed down to her from "Grandmama and Grandpapa." She'll

Lynn clairvoyant Moll Pitcher's predictions of an ill-fated voyage were so powerful that they could render a ship crew-less if word got out.  This 17th century sybil is said to have made predictions

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment ratifications!  When Abigail Adams begged her husband to "remember the ladies" in drafting a new code of laws, John wrote back that he "could

Charles Lindbergh's vision of coast-to-coast travel by plane and train in just 48 hours was only a dream until July 7th, 1929, when Transcontinental Air Transport's inaugural journey left New York City.

If you miss the baseball season and long for a taste of it, here's a chance to learn about the game's history.  Variations of baseball have been played for hundreds of years, including a rousing

Discover how Hollywood evolved from a small, conservative community into a glittering movie mecca full of glamorous stars and eye-popping scandal.  See clips of the early films that launched the

The wizard headmaster of a magic school entertains the audience with an introductory demonstration in magic wizardry! This show takes on the "Harry Potter" theme and presents very colorful/visual magic

This multimedia presentation entertains and educates as you learn about the history of performance magic. Houdini was not the only great magician who performed. Learn about the magician that stopped

Caera is a Celtic musician from the Boston area, who is very passionate about the music, languages, and history of her ancestors. She plays a clairseach, a brass-strung harp modeled after historical

The Story School and Camp Fable present: Library LARPs The stories of history, mythology, and literature have come to life at your local library and we need heroes to save the day. Library guests ages

A chilling collection of propaganda short films from World War II, "World War Toons" offers a glimpse into the psychological warfare tactics employed by both Allied and Axis powers. These animated shorts,

Caribbean for Kids performs particpatory

shows which include calypso, reggae, and

soca beats with steel drum, limbo dancing, and many call and response songs. Audiences of all ages will

Storyteller Megan Wells and I retell the Christmas chapter from Louisa May Alcott's Little Women. From Alcott’s birthday in November throughout December, the story of the March family might

Colonial School Days : Living History Program -

Prudence Gray – owner of a dame school in Colonial America  ( 1700's Virgina ) invites students  into her home for lessons and

BEGIN WITH A Box Creative teaching and learning during quarantine!
Join educator, historian and author Carol Cohen as she shares her unique approach to hands-on learning through her favorite tool

Join Eleanor Roosevelt at her home in Val Kill as she takes you on a journey throught the history of Human Rights from Ancient Times to the present.   Emphasis is on the Declaration of Human

Meet Eleanor Roosevelt in backyard of her home called Val Kill located in Hyde Park NY. It is the summer of 1949. Eleanor has gathered together friends relatives and colleagues for a garden picnic where

  "An Evening with Eleanor Roosevelt"
Join author and historian Carol Cohen for a look into the life of EleanorRoosevelt.  During this presentation, meet Eleanor Roosevelt at

Castle Nitor creates immersive historical experiences for people to enjoy. We are offering a taste of what we do for your patrons! We will set up a historical setup (tent, tables, and chairs) and teach

Castle Nitor creates immersive historical experiences for people to enjoy. We offer a variety of craft classes. Many of the arts cover a range of periods. Basic crafts can be done in 1-2 hours; in-depth

Not your grey haired "Mother Goose" but her younger "Aunty" with her own Goose and other hand puppets to tell stories. In full costume Charlotte Dore is "Aunty Goose", using hand puppets, pictures a

Ten award-winning short films from four continents explore our complicated feelings about climate change and the possibility of our inspired response to it.
 
Rhode Island

With concerns about climate change increasing by the day, cacao producers around the world are working to ensure their farms survive the changing growing seasons. Likewise, small batch chocolate makers

Most Boston visitors and students of American history know the story of the Boston Tea Party. But did you know that when the colonists stopped drinking tea due to taxation they instead turned to drinking

Perhaps women need to be reminded of how far we’ve come in order to see how far we still can go. Discover what life was really like for New England's colonial women - because we've always been

The Not-So-Good Old Days is a hands-on history program for kids. As a teacher, I know that students are more engaged and focused when they're working on hands-on projects. What could be more hands-on

The Melting Pot of American Music

with Marylou Ferrante and Robin OHerin

This musical and interactive program explores early American instruments, songs and songwriters: where they come

Take a trip around the world exploring WILD WORLD BEATS, African, Asian, Spanish and more are played. Audience participation using a variety of ethnic instruments. First part of program we describe

The crosscurrents of the Gulf Stream and the Labrador Current create some of the richest fishing grounds in the world. The Gulf of Saint Lawrence is the gateway to the interior of North America, and

Illustrated lecture/concert of the life and work of sailor, sea chantey collector, and social worker Joanna (Nan) Carver Colcord (1882-1960) of Searsport, Maine. Born at sea and raised on sailing ships,

Wes-hael! Be hale and hearty in good company. Complement your family traditions to drive the cold winter away and hail the returning light. This festive workshop is rich with midwinter customs for wassailing

Do you love the old songs of the Auld Sod? Want to sing along on rousing choruses, close your eyes and listen to the sweet airs of traditional ballads, and raise a pint to the luck of the Irish? You've

Traditional chanteys and original ballads in the maritime tradition from Lynn's home port of Boston. Enjoy true tales in song of the first Maypole in North America, the Boston Tea Party, our nation's

The year is 1008. Stand on the Viking knarr with Gudrid and her son Snorri as she looks back at VInland and the New World. Feel the wind snap her cloak pin. Seek through the grass for her spindle whorl.

An interactive lighsaber training session!

Using safe-for-contact foam weapons, participants learn lightsaber combat by exploring historical swordsmanship techniques and the potential physics

Swordsmanship training and duels using safe-for-contact foam swords. This event can be tailored to any age group, however only a single age group should participate. Costuming and theme can be adapted

I have been sword fighting professionally for 6 years as an instructor, entertainer, and educator and I love bringing the excitement of historical and fantasy combat to adults and children through real

"The sport of Fencing is comprised of three disciplines: the foil, the épée, and the sabre; One of the first sports to be played in the Olympics, fencing is based on the traditional skills

A unique presentation that combines historical swordsmanship with physics:

A discussion of Newton's 3 Laws of Motion, Levers, Gravity, Friction, Potential and Kinetic energy, human physiology,

A variety of costumed living characters to fit historical and fictional themes are available; Characters from literature, Pirates, Knights, Vikings, Jedi, etc.

Available for a wide varieties

a. In this popular presentation, Dan gives an overview of jazz history and the major jazz styles.

b. (If desired, Dan performs solo or with ensemble to illustrate the lecture.)

a. There have been many great musicians in jazz. Every so often, jazz artists come along that change the direction of the music and set the standards for others to come. In this well-received presentation,

This exciting presentation serves as a great introduction to listening to jazz. In this lecture, Dan shares recordings from various periods/jazz styles and discusses the following:

a. Why certain

Jazz isn't just music, it's a lifestyle! It has its own slang, for example. 'Cats' use phrases like 'the eagle has flown"--phrases the average person doesn't understand. The jazz arena has its own

Jazz encompasses many different styles-a feature that has allowed jazz musicians great flexibility and has helped jazz music to endure.

a. In this well-loved presentation, Dan discusses the development

Author Daniel A. Gagnon discusses his acclaimed biography, A Salem Witch: The Trial, Execution, and Exoneration of Rebecca Nurse. 

The 1692 Salem Witch Trials is a fascinating event

Music for young and old alike.......Music that makes it impossible for one to sit still.......Music whose chestnuts endure as classics....Music that makes you smile....bigtime.

All of these phrases

"A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens enacted complete with period costumes, by a narrator and two professional actors. With the help of 3 ghosts, Ebenezer Scrooge transforms himself from miser to

Charles Dickens wrote some of the funniest, most imaginative characters in literature. Three actors take on the roles of Scrooge & Marley, Mr. & Mrs. Mikawber, Miss Havisham and several more

Lizzie Borden was accused of the vicious ax murders of her father and stepmother. Did she do it? The audience must decide. The actors portray characters from the Borden trial. The audience hears the

Songs about the old west. Some original, some as hold as them thar hills. Easy to sing along with.

In "Tea with Mrs. Dickens",  Catherine Hogarth Dickens welcomes you into the Dickens Family Home at Tavistock in December 1852. During your visit, Mrs. Dickens shares stories, from her early life

This lively performance introduces library audiences to this pivotal Middle Eastern culture. Featuring Diane's first book: A Fire in My Heart: Kurdish Tales, Diane brings to

Diane presents the music enjoyed by both sides during the American Revolution, exploring the fascinating world behind the lyrics. In colonial dress, she sings and accompanies herself on dulcimer and

Many of our holiday traditions and much of our Christmas music was revived or created during the Victorian era, in the mid-1800s. Diane presents beloved carols and stories about their origins, accompanying

Diane sings beloved classics from a dark yet inspiring time, exploring how people from all walks of life responded to a war that tore at the nation's heart. She accompanies herself on dulcimer and guitar

Tea: The First Wicked Weed
Women’s Role in Revolutionizing the Colonies.

In December, 1767, the Town Meeting of Harvard, Massachusetts voted to discourage the sale and purchase of

The Bombing of Laos and the Continuing Tragedy of Cluster Bombs

Dr. Walter Haney, Professor at the Lynch School of Education at Boston College offers to give a talk on "The Bombing of Laos and

Invite TheRealBeardedSanta,  his wise-cracking 40" elf Jerry, Doug the Talking Dog, and Willie the Singing Whiteboard to your event.

Holiday themes customized per your requirements. 

Invite Harry Potter, Hermione, Dumbledore, and all the fantastic fantasy figures/puppets from DriscollProductions.com

Have you ever worked with dummies?  Ventriloquist dummies?

ATTENTION

Invite Paul Revere to your school or library.  Kevin Driscoll, M. Ed. is a Massachusetts Certified Teacher with decades of teaching experience.  His FIVE STAR Paul Revere & Friends INTERACTIVE

Edward Lodi profiles a number of remarkable women who played major roles in King Philip's War: making history-changing decisions, performing heroic deeds, enduring hardships, chronicling their experiences,

Learn about the Indian attack on Hadley on September 1, 1675, when a mysterious stranger suddenly appeared to save the day, then just as suddenly vanished, causing the settlers to believe that he was

Edward Lodi (author or editor of more than a half dozen books pertaining to King Philip's War) talks about his book, Who When Where in King Philip's War. Lodi spent years researching material for his

Edward Lodi talks about his latest book, The Pequot War.

 In 1637 the Puritans waged a genocidal war against the Pequots, the most powerful

 Hear Edward Lodi talk about his latest book, Massasoit’s Town Sowams in Pokanoket Its History Legends and Traditions. 

In the1620s

Edward Lodi talks about his most recent book Benjamin Church in King William’s War. 

King William’s War (1689-1697) was the first in the series of bloody conflicts known collectively

Take an imaginary journey around the world with Dora through Puppet Show, Folksong, Artifact-sharing, Folkdance, Craft, Game, and Reenactment. Based on your constituencies or interests, choose cultures

Folktales from around the World are brought alive with authentic artifacts and figures.  All continents are represented.  Each show features a strong positive moral message, as folk characters

Mrs. Russell Parsons escorts guests on a factual yet tongue-in-cheek promenade through her life as a proper Victorian lady. Topics include tea etiquette, fashion, fan language, calling-card protocols,

Celebrate diversity with K-Pop Demon Hunters. In this program Rumi, Zoey, and Mira join the dance floor for a fun stage show, immersive experience, and dance party! Set includes a 30 minute "stage show"

Five costumed Pilgrims (employees of Plimoth Plantation) perform a lively revue of English country songs and dances from the 17th century.

They perform in full costume and period character with

The Gloucester Hornpipe and Clog Society has performed throughout New England and twice in Ireland in libraries, museums, outdoor maritime celebrations, aboard the U.S.S. Constitution and other historic

The Gloucester Hornpipe and Clog Society has performed throughout New England and twice in Ireland. Our concerts are family- or holiday-oriented, for example for St. Patrick's Day, Independence

Layer the Walls began as a live theater piece that explores stories of a tenement apartment in New York City that was once home to hundreds of new immigrants.

Now we’re

Hippocrates said, "all disease begins in the gut." History has proven Hippocrates to be a pretty smart guy, and science is now linking poor gut health with a myriad of health problems.

Staying

Our Samurai arrives in costume and talks of what it was like to live in the time of the Samurai. He will bring sample (unsharp) weapons and Kendo armor for the audience to touch and try on. Optionally,

Ever wondered how to bring your reading program to life and leave a bigger impact on young readers? 

Guardian Adventures will come to you, bringing story and learning to life!  Our

I Promoted Myself - recount the rise of a washerwoman, entrepreneur, a dedicated woman, who was committed to giving her time and money to her community and led an anti-lynching campaign all the way

I Can't Die But Once - one of the most daring and effective spies during the Civil War were none other than Harriet Tubman. During the forty-five minute presentation, Harriet Tubman weaves a tale of

Taylor Freedom - During the fall of 1796, George Washington's final months in office, Oney Judge Staines, a slave, escaped the Executive Mansion in Philadelphia. There is always an underside - hidden

Story, song and dance by the legendary Persian Queen and storyteller Scheherazade introduce audiences of all ages to the rich cultures and history of the Middle East. Audience participation.

A fun and musical journey into the history of American Folk Music incorporating many and diverse instruments, dances, customs, jokes, history and stories. This program is fun, educational and funny.

Enrichment presentations on ancient Egypt, Greece & Rome containing museum quality reproductions of artifacts, model war machines, full-scale Roman body armor, replica clothing, PP presentations, role-playing

This program explores the life of one of America's Founding Mothers, Deborah Read Franklin.  Mrs. Franklin's mostly untold story, chronicles the life of Ben Franklin through the eyes of his life

This program is virtual/hybrid and is presented in a Power Point/ Lecture Format.  It explores the lives of some of the women who were called upon to serve as lighthouse keepers during the course

This program explores the fascinating history of the American flag, from its earliest days as a symbol of revolution, to the present.  What is the truth about Betsy Ross?  How did the flag

This program explores the women of the “Greatest Generation” who answered the call to action during World War II.  Known as “Rosie the Riveters”, these  women entered

This virtual presentation follows a Power Point/ Lecture format.  The program explores the life of Anne Bonny, one of the few recorded women pirates in history. She is only one of two women reported

This program explores the fascinating history of the ship that was believed to be “unsinkable”.  The perspective of its female passengers and crew members is the focus of this presentation.

Abigail Adams did it all! Separated from her husband John for almost ten years, Mrs. Adams ran their Quincy farm, educated their children and wrote John letters describing the tumultuous events of the

Have you ever wished that your young audiences could understand first hand the tremendous political and social changes that occurred during the American Revolution? Mrs. Adams traces the slow and unpredictable

Join Phebe Emerson on April 19, 1775-the fateful day when the Redcoats marched into Concord from Lexington. Mrs. Emerson, the wife of Concord's minister in 1775, witnessed the famous battle that took

Travel back in time with Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896), who Abraham Lincoln called, "the little lady who made this great war." This famous abolitionist and author speaks about her life, her dedication

Meet Louisa May Alcott, author of the much loved autobiography, Little Women. Louisa introduces students to important 19th century issues, including suffrage, abolition, equal education, and the Underground

While learning about life a hundred years ago, children can step into the Victorian childhood of Louisa May Alcott and identify with a naughty little child who tried to be good.

Narrated slide program outlining history of Metro. Boston water system and the construction of Quabbin Reservoir. Bulk of program shows what the towns flooded by Quabbin looked like and what life in

Calvin Coolidge was the 30th President of the U.S. (1923-29). He was a native of Plymouth, VT, but graduated from Amherst College, and became a lawyer in Northampton, MA.

Coolidge rose up in

This is a choice of narrated slide programs about the history of two different Mass. railroads The Mass Central RR (1869-83) was the predecessor of the more famous Central Mass Division of the Boston

Many people know a snatch or two of 'Ain't Misbehavin'' or 'Honeysuckle Rose.'

Some may even know that Thomas 'Fats' Waller wrote the music for both tunes.

But did you know that the

Sprightly, faithful interpretations of the "Just So Stories". (Framed with cameo appearances of Rudyard Kipling for older audiences.)

This program changes each year. For over 25 years, Jeff Belanger has been exploring the unexplained. He seeks out history, folklore, ghosts, monsters, and legends all over the world and in your backyard.

Based on Jeff’s popular PBS television show and weekly New England Legends podcast, and his latest book Wicked Strange New England, this program offers a multimedia journey through the history,

This program is a MUST SEE for anyone who ever plans to die! In a Cemetery Safari, Jeff takes you on a journey from the oldest burial rituals up through modern times. We explore funerary art throughout

Based on Jeff’s best-selling book, this one-man show explores the many Yuletide monsters and legends that have almost been lost to the ages. Jeff explores the history of the holiday and the ghostly

The Measure of the Year: Seasonal Concerts Series

Musical performance, historical commentary, myth, storytelling

drawn from a variety of traditions & time periods.

SpringSongs

Since the introduction of this program in November 1988, it has proved to be one of our most popular, featured on Ct. Public Radio's 'Open Air New England,' offered as part of a special seminar at

Elizabeth Poe, the mother of Edgar Allan Poe, was a singing actress active in the United States from the late 1790s to 1811. This program, built around the music she sang & material from some of the

The password is "music" and the secret knock will be "fun."

Take a musical and historical tour of the American 1920s. Hearken to the sounds and story of the triumph of the temperance movement

Seasonal programs

Most programs include storytelling.

Each program includes information on myth, legend, & history of the season or celebration

Jim & Maggi's seasonal programs

This exceedingly popular program features music beloved by the society of 19th-century America. Illuminates what was important to the American heart in Victorian & Edwardian times. One of our three

Ballads, original music, humorous songs and anecdotal stories from Ireland performed as a solo vocalist with guitar.

Solo acoustic guitar and vocal performance of the music from some of the singer-songwriters of the 60's & 70's (James Taylor, Bob Dylan, Jim Croce, Neil Young, Gordon Lightfoot, etc...). The inspiration

“A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music,” is a program of songs and stories about characters and events at the origin of the blues, rock and country music. The program is

Stories shaped from authentic history have the power to open the heart, teach, and entertain. Judith's stories have been created for the USS Constitution Museum, the US Dept. of the Interior, National

LUCY STONE IS COMING TO TOWN

There was a time in our national history when a married woman did not have legal rights to the money she earned, the property she inherited, or the children she bore.

Storytelling can open your gates of perception and allow tears and laughter to issue at a velocity that would out pace a spring rainfall. Consider an evening for the big people. My performance material

From bedrooms in Brookline to kitchens in Boca Raton, these original tales of love, parenting and coming to peace with family life will leave you in gales of tears from laughter. There are many program

This story, commissioned by The Morton Museum of Collierville History and the town of Collierville explores one family's life in the midst of a war that tore apart the fabric of this nation. The tale

Share the hearty laughter, outrageous boasts, and some poignant recollections from leisure hours of the lumbermen from American north woods. A mix of chorus & narrative; serious & light-hearted.

Great narrative songs about ghosts, witches, giants, and fierce scary things. Superb songs of the supernatural!

Ballads and songs of women and the sea. Mix of chorus & narrative; serious & light-hearted.

An entertaining and informative mix of songs from and about of the women and men of America's early days: cowboys, sailors, pioneers, lumberjacks, soldiers and farmers. Late 18th to early 20th century.

The audience will travel across Abraham Lincoln's America with songs from and about his lifetime. The songs take us from Lincoln's birth in 1809 to his death in 1865; and from Kentucky to California.

The audience will travel across Mark Twain's America with songs from and about his fascinating lifetime. Samuel Clemens lived in an America full of famous heroes and grand adventures. Mark Twain's

You will see photos of the day, the letters themselves, and lyrics of the choruses projected on a large screen. Judy, in costume, will read the letters, play tunes of the time, and sing songs tht were

You will see photos of the day, the letters themselves, and lyrics of the choruses projected on a large screen. Judy, in costume, will read the letters, play tunes of the time, and sing songs that

You will see photos of the day, the letters themselves, and lyrics of the choruses projected on a large screen. Judy, in costume, will read the letters, play tunes of the time, and sing songs that

Travel back in time with Kate as she tells stories, in costume and character, from the lives of some extraordinary American women. These interactive historical programs will give your group a moving,

Travel back in time with Kate as she tells stories, in costume and character, from the lives of some extraordinary American women. These interactive historical programs will give your group a moving,

The First Woman Doctor in the West is an historical role playing encounter with the adventurous, outspoken Bethenia Owens-Adair, MD. The doctor meets and talks with listeners as if they were back in

Travel back in time with Kate as she tells stories, in costume and character, from the lives of some extraordinary American women. These interactive historical programs will give your group a moving,

Travel back in time with Kate as she tells stories, in costume and character, from the lives of some extraordinary American women. These interactive historical programs will give your group a moving,

Travel back in time with Kate as she tells stories, in costume and character, from the lives of some extraordinary American women. These interactive historical programs will give your group a

moving,

Travel back in time with Kate as she tells stories, in costume and character, from the lives of some extraordinary American women. These interactive historical programs will give your group a moving,

Choose to hear stories from your favorite time in American history -- the Revolution, the Oregon Trail & Frontier, or the Lowell Mills -- told for younger children by a costumed character of the

Stories from the world's most loved storyteller, Hans Christian Andersen, are told with references to his travels and life experiences. Adult or family programs are available.

Today I may be MARK TWAIN, some days I am CLARENCE DARROW, other days, JOHN BARRYMORE, ANDREW CARNEGIE, or SHAKESPEARE.

I have been presenting these one person shows for audiences at libraries,

A multi-media presentation with dramatic visuals and period music that is based on his National Book Award Finalist history, Harlem Stomp!

An interactive performance by Mrs. Christine Galanis, a modern Victorian woman. She will teach you the unspoken language that guided the culture in Victorian times. Authentic ladies garments and accessories

(Writing/research/literature/history) - This program covers my writing process for Drawn from Memory, from the conception of the idea, the research resources required, how much to outline, the pitfalls

(History, sociology, psychology, social justice) - Ninety-Nine percent of Danish Jews survived the Holocaust despite Nazi occupation. Other nations lost 50-80% of their Jewish populations. What was

(Anti-Bullying, 7th-12th grade)  This program uses the historical story of the Danish rescue of the Jews (as featured in the novel Drawn from Memory) as a jumping off point to discuss combatting

Historian Laurence Green discusses "The Shaking Tent" and Ralph Waldo Emerson, exploring the roots of "Nature" and "Self-Reliance" as reactions to the first industrial mills in North America, built

Lesléa Newman's novel, Hachiko Waits is based on the true story of the famous Akita who lived in Japan from 1923 until 1935 and spent the last ten years of his life waiting at Shibuya train station

Hotly contested stump speeches on transpacific trade, immigration, and national security are not new to American political discourse. Join historian, teacher, and author Jennifer Hallock to learn

This two-hour class combines instruction regarding how to use the Digital Commonwealth or other online resources to find historical images and the creation of a mixed media piece that incorporates those

As radical abolitinist lecturers for the American Anti-slavery Society, Abby Kelley and Stephen Foster experienced long periods of separation. Deeply researched and based on their original letters,

Follow the Cannon: Clara Barton's Civil War Letters is a poignantly powerful one-woman play. Hear Clara's own words describe her trials and tribulations as she becomes the Angel of the Battlefield.

In August 1861, George Hull Ward left his wife, Emily, and their two small children to go to war. 116 letters survive in the collection of the Worcester Historical Museum detailing the pain of prolonged

Yours for Humanity - Abby is a one woman play about 19th century radical abolitionist, woman and human rights activist, Abby Kelley Foster. She dedicated her life to social

Made in the Shade will capture the imagination of and delight of young listeners as they embark on a musical journey throughout America. Starting in New Orleans with Dixieland, they will make stops

Children love trains and magic shows! This innovative program features participatory stage magic, zany comedy, and some superheroes, renowned heroes, animal heroes and everyday heroes and heroines who

Magician Debbie O'Carroll's History Mystery Magic Show takes a fanciful look at our founding mothers as it involves young audiences in our fascinating history! We'll share the biographies of Phillis

My lecture tells the story of my journey to authenticate a marble bust of Napoleon sculpted by Auguste Rodin, which had been sitting in a New Jersey town hall for almost 80 years.  I recount the

Join New York Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Marc Black, for a musical tour through these two historically defining decades.  You’ll sing along with wonderful songs as diverse as Itsy Bitsy,

Johnny Appleseed, Gentle Hero is a one person play based on the life and myth of this American hero

Blending carefully researched stories as well as cultural touchstones (props from the cultures) Marianne makes the audience laugh, learn and understand the gentle fabric of many cultures including Native

Positive thinking, cooperation, innovation, accountability and other self improvement themes are explored for teen and adults for conflict resolution, personal growth, and more. Using examples of Women

SING ALONG AND HEAR WB YEATS INSPIRED CELTIC TALES OF HUMOR,KINDNESS AND MORE. WORKSHOP FOR BRIGITS-WEAVE, JIG DANCING AND CELTIC CUSTOMS OPTIONS.

"Hudden, Dudden and Donald O'Neary" 

"Leprechaun

ACCURATE, EXQUISITELY COSTUMED, CHAUTAUQUA QUALIFIED, PORTRAYAL OF LOUISA MAY ALCOTT, AS LOVED BY DESCENDANTS OF HER FAMILY AS WELL AS THOUSANDS OF AUDIENCES Since 1995 LATEST FEATURED ON PBS-NH: http://nhpr.org/post/marianne-donnelly-beyond-little-women

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=e7kxxNmWBV0

Fruitlands

THIS PROGRAM HAS TOURED BY INVITATION TO THE ARIZONA LIBRARY SYSTEM (JAN ELLIOT CAN REFERENCE TWENTY SHOWS) AMERICAN HISTORY CURRICULA LINKED HAS HISTORY, SONGS, GAMES, MAGIC AND COSTUMED PORTRAYAL

TALKING ABOUT THE SOCIAL MOVEMENTS OF THE 1960'S INCLUDING CIVIL RIGHTS AND ALSO JANIS' LIFE, SPOKEN IN CHARACTER, THREE SONGS IN HER VOICE-STYLE WITH Q AND A AFTER IN CHARACTER: Mdonnelly00@gmail.com

SEASONAL PROGRAMS WITH WELL RESEARCHED STORIES, SONGS, FOR WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER AND AUTUMN. 

PLEASE email mdonnelly00@gmail.com 

IN COSTUME WITH MUSIC, MOVEMENT AND MORE.

Alan Kitty appears in the character and visage of Mark Twain to deliver prepared comments and anecdotes that are appropriate to the age and type of audience. When he is finished, he opens the floor

What is it like to be famous? Alan Kitty is well known (not quite famous) for his performance work as Mark Twain, which he has been doing since 1979.  He knows how Twain must have felt from reading

This popular program in part one of a series on the life, work and times of Mark Twain. it is designed to enrich the reader's appreciation for the Father of American Literature and America's first Modern

This is part two of a series. Part one is an overview of Twain's life, work and times. Part two is designed to depend appreciation for the works of Mark Twain. We discuss recurring themes in his fiction,

The GOP was born in 1854, and Mark Twain was a charter member of its Connecticut Chapter by 1874. But he support Democrat Grover Cleveland as a "Mugwump". This lecture follows his political evolution

Race and Religion have always been American obsessions. Mark Twain's views on both changed during his lifetime, and his evolution is explored in many of his works. This lecture will illuminate his evolution

2008 marks the 25th anniversary of Sally Ride's historic launch into space. Yet few people know that in the early days of the US space program, 13 American women were secretly tested to be astronauts.

I come in a pretty costume (virtually or in person) as Mother Goose, with a large basket containing Tillie the Goose, an adorable rod puppet that looks real, especially when she turns her head. I bring

Stories & Songs to Celebrate Girls & Women. Great in March for Women's History Month or anytime. Multicultural stories of heroines provide entertainment and food for thought. "Little Daughter"

Tales & Tunes of the American West--From the hilarious tall tale of "Old Sally Cato," who bests the giant Billy Bally Bully with her feather duster and no help from her boys L'il Jack and Big Tom,

Funny and fun, original Readers Theatre scripts so we can immerse in these terrific stories, such as Arachne, Atalanta, Demeter & Persephone, Phaeton and more. This works for any size group, I just

Join Matt Austin as he gives a talk on the life and legacy of one of the greatest comedians of all time. From her radio days to her groundbreaking sitcom to becoming the first female head of a major

First person characterization of Eleanor Roosevelt presented in four distinct parts from childhood to her years at the UN. Sponsors may choose any part appropriate for their audiences. There is always

An amazing slide presentation about a True Story of an American Family’s Survival During WWII off our coast.   Includes the Uboat commander’s War Diary

 Tall ship Bounty get's caught in Hurricane Sandy.  Amazing rescue by rescue swimmer who saves 14 out of 16 people.  Slide presentation with images taken during the storm and rescue.

 Slide presentation based on the  national bestseller Fatal Forecast.  Follows two off shore lobster boats from Cape Cod that get ambushed by a 100 foot rogue wave.  Story focuses

 Exciting Slide Presentation of he Blizzard of 78 from NY Times Bestselling Author

Amazing slides of the four lost towns that were flooded to create the reservoir, slides of the construction and how it all works, and slides of special places at the Quabbin to visit

 Slide presentation of America's First War fought between Native Americans and Colonists in MA

The Starry Messenger is an interactive dramatic presentation that will bring Galileo to your institution to discuss his early telescopic discoveries. After the public lecture, which lasts about 50

Popular long time New England radio and TV personality Mike Morin delivers a multi-media presentation on radio's golden age, including contemporary local radio hosts. From 1920 to today, original audio

IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK – Celebrating 100 Years of the Red Arrow, America’s Most Beloved Diner by Mike Morin (2022, Hobblebush Books), shares remarkably surprising stories of the diner’s

The play tells the traditional story of Ahab and his vengeful pursuit of the white whale with a parallel modern story of a young urban crew's quest to destroy a cocaine drug lord that has wounded them.

The Black Lives Matter protests that swept through the nation in 2020 made many Americans question their own beliefs and long held assumptions about race and privilege in America. Manju will give a

ARRRR! Captain Scully and Jenny Mcboo tell stories and sing songs of the true lives of the pirates, while playing the guitar and accordian. The stories highlight cooperation, self determination, courage

Beloved Storyteller, Shepherdess, and Handspinner Nancy Bell brings Rumplestiltskin, Sleeping Beauty, and many other fairy tales to life with her antique spinning wheels, crafts, and stories.  Audiences

Nancy Bell is a shepherdess, handspinner, historian, and storyteller who brings history to life through her interactive programs. Dressed in carefully researched, hand-sewn, historically accurate clothing,

For thousands of years, man has manipulated puppets for a variety of reasons: religion, education, and entertainment. One of the oldest and most wonderful forms of puppetry is shadow puppetry.

Shadows

Trouble in the Nursery....

Mother Goose has taken the day off and Father Goose must do all her chores, including the Storytelling! Try as he might Father Goose just can't get the stories right.

In colonial American times, stately eastern white pines were among the most valuable trees on the planet. They were an imposing presence in the primeval forests of eastern North America.

This

I will present a detailed Powerpoint program of how NASA planned, designed, prepared  and executed the 1st landing of a man on the moon. It will include the modules and Saturn V rocket technology.

Willing to sign on as Mary Read, retired pirate, at your events - historical, piratical or otherwise. Salt, Sea and Piracy with Mary Read Press Release. Dressed as pirate Mary Read, Norah Dooley, tells

Musical characterization of some of the stars of the minstrel stage. Minstrelsy is the first American art form. I bring my own sound system, costumes and minstrel artifacts. I play 2 instruments of

A fun, fully-illustrated lecture on the unique history of the cultural phenomenon known as the English Music Hall, from its humble beginnings in London, to full-flower in the Victorian era, and it's

Craft a themed mask animal, alien, human cartoon...your choice, from upcycled card board and decorate it using natural products grasses, seeds,reeds, pods,mosses, sand etc- use it as a decorative mask

Join me to create a steampunk inspired leather and metal bracelet. Adjustable size and non gender specific this craft is a perfect fit for all.

Depending on time allotted students will learn

Join us for this unique opportunity to learn how archaeologists explore the past through hands-on, interactive activities. After an introduction to archaeology and discussion of the main principles

Learn how zooarchaeologist identify animal bones found at archaeological sites and what they can tell us about the people who lived there. Kids will learn what a bone is, how bones of various types

Who were the Pilgrims? The Pilgrims lived right here in our state, having landed in 1620 in Plymouth. In this class, students explore the lives of these founding mothers and fathers. We explore the

Native Americans have lived in Southeastern Massachusetts for at least 12,000 years and they continue to live here today, on the land of their forebearers. This class introduces students to the Wampanoag,

Costumed character interacts with children while telling stories and creating audience participation. Mother Goose is geared for preschool, Amelia Bedilia for school age. Miss Frizzle themes include:

Rick Keller, from Perfect Pastime 617, is offering a community-wide collectibles appraisal event. So gather up all your Pokémon/sports cards/memorabilia, coins, watches, video games/consoles,

This workshop is about stamp collecting. Mr. Simmons is a stamp collector and has a global educational project at MagicalStamps.com 

The workshop is customized for your needs but can include:

On June 25, 1894, Annie Cohen Kopchovsky, a young mother of three small children, stood before a crowd of 500 friends, family, suffragists and curious onlookers at the Massachusetts State House. Then

In authentic costume in first person characterization, Petticoat Adventures presents the stories of some amazing American women: Deborah Sampson, Rachel Revere, Luisa Adams and Johanna Sears (the clipper

Welcome aboard as we join the R.I. Pirate Guy's crew and set sail on an adventure to steal back the treasure that is wrongfully mine!  We will train you up from a landlubber to a full-fledged pirate. 

In this presentation, we will uncover the nautical myths, legends, and hidden histories that haunt our not-so-far-away coasts. Topics discussed are: Ghost ships, tall tales, buried treasures, pirate

Welcome aboard as we explore the history of Italian pirates who helped shape the world as we know it.  In this presentation, we will discuss the why one would become a pirate, weapons and tactics,

Come explore the hidden history of New England with the pirates that helped shape our nation.  Discover the tactics, weapons, and surprising democracy aboard pirate ships.  Learn the stories

Candido Bretto - Composer, children's author, musician comes to your school to sing along with your students as they perform his children's musical.

About the Musical

Long

The unrivaled master of the macabre, none other than Edgar Allan Poe himself, is conjured back from the shadows for a most extraordinary hour of enigma and dread. On this remarkable eve, let the mists

Promised Land: Songs and Stories of Immigrant Americans is an exciting and enriching program for young audiences, combining music and narrative to explore the rich heritage of our country through its

Many people know a snatch or two of “Ain’t Misbehavin’” or “Honeysuckle Rose.”

Some may even know that Thomas “Fats” Waller wrote the music for

Route 1 in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts is an unapologetic combination of historic gravity, exuberant entertainment, unexpected juxtapositions, and wonderfully kitschy roadside attractions.

Candlepin bowling is hard. So hard, in fact, that no one has ever bowled a perfect game. The pins are tall and skinny, the balls are small enough to fit in a player’s hand, and the fallen pins

Spend an afternoon or evening conversing with Henry David Thoreau! Richard Smith brings the famed 19th Century philosopher alive! Listen to Thoreau read one of his essays ("Civil Disobedience" or "Walking",

How did young Victorian ladies and gentlemen get aquainted back during the 1890's? Well, through courtship of course! Courtship was a ritual that involved traditional customs, etiquette, romance and

Let historical reenactor and actress, Rita Parisi take you back in time to 1908. The setting is an afternoon or evening tea. And your hostess is Mrs Gordon, who has just come back from a trip to Boston.

Enjoy an afternoon or evening of holiday cheer as Mrs. Gordon(played by Rita Parisi) transports you back to Christmas 1908. Find out what ladies, gentlemen and children wanted in their stockings that

Summertime...and the living was easy for many at the turn of the last century. Ladies and gentlemen strolled the promenades of Salisbury and Hampton Beaches. While there, they enjoyed dancing. band

Join Mrs. Gordon for a ghostly tea party perfect for the haunting season. Be chilled and thrilled as she recants some of her own uncanny experiences. Mrs. Gordon will also discuss Edwardian Halloween

An Irishman’s Journey from famine era Ireland to the American Civil War to Little Big Horn told through traditional and original songs and music.

Robert Emmet Dunlap has expanded his often

This Land is Your Land is a multicultural, multilingual folk music program that journeys from New England to New Orleans, Puerto Rico to Hawaii celebrating the cultural diversity of the United States.

A multicultural program of participatory songs for young children performed on a variety of international folk instruments. From an African welcoming song performed on the Achika drum to a Russian lullaby

Across the Americas is a multi-cultural, multi-lingual folk music journey from Canada to South America performed on a variety of stringed, wind and percussion instruments. From the Rockies to the Andes,

Including: Halloween Songs and Stories (silly, not scary), A Winter Solstice Celebration (Holidays and songs of light from around the world), Irish Music, Stories and Dance (for Saint Patrick's Day,

Kids have a grand adventure tracking down a Historical Treasure just like Indiana Jones or Lara Croft!

In this multi-media, hands-on adventure, young learners build knowledge, as well as observation,

Invite a costumed princess to entertain toddlers and young children with fun-filled princess-themed activities including musical storytelling, games, a royal craft, autographed coloring sheets and dancing.

This Old Hat, Women of American History Musical Series

This Old Hat, American Heroines is a one woman, tour de force musical showcasing famous American

This Old Hat, Women of American History Musical Series

This Old Hat, Patriots of Liberty is a one woman, tour de force musical showcasing the unique stories

This Old Hat, Women of American History Musical Series

This Old Hat, Leading Ladies is a one woman, tour de force musical showcasing famous American Women who

Irving Berlin, A Patriotic Tribute!

Widely considered one of the greatest songwriters in American history, Irving Berlin's compositions form a large part of The Great American Songbook.

From

Patty Carver (This Old Hat Women in American History Programs) presents a delightful and entertaining tribute to the music of Doris Day!

            From Doris Day’s

Please read about all of my program offerings here: https://shorturl.at/9un5o

This 90-minute show is phenomenally popular. It is appropriate for children nine years old and up and is much beloved by adults. You will know everything about Lowell mill girls and a tremendous amount

It is 1874. Whistler's Mother is in MA to promote her son's work. Through a new-fangled "Magic Lantern" she is able to show pictures of his artwork and give her thoughts on art, family and expatriatism.

Clara Barton was a Civil War Nurse and the founder of the Red Cross. This is an excellent program for instilling within children the value of helping others in need. Her story ties directly into Civil

A one-woman show of Helen Keller. This is written from Helen's mind eye. The story is told on a taped voice over as Helen reenacts her full life from her childhood through her discovery of language

Laura Ingalls Wilder is a stubborn, spirited little girl, eagerly exploring all the wonders of the prairie. After a day of family chores, she revels in her father's folklore and listens carefully to

I have two different versions of this show one for younger audiences and one for older. I start as an adult and go back to her childhood and back to an adult again. Come hear all about this fascinating

She is sometimes considered to have been a founder of the United States and is now designated as the first Second Lady and second First Lady of The United States

Adams’s life is one

Amelia Earhart's fearless, adventuresome spirit leads to hair-raising rides down her homemade roller coaster, and she is enthralled with the wonders of the new "flying machines" during a family vacation

Anne Frank was born in Frankfurt Germany on June 12, 1929. She lived most of her life in or near Amsterdam, having moved there with her family at the age of four-and-a-half when the Nazis gained control

One of the greatest lessons we can teach our children is the importance of helping others in need. Towards this end, we are proud to introduce Clara Barton as our humanitarian role model.

From

After suffering through an unhappy childhood, and losing her parents and one of her brothers. She figured out where she fit in and could make a difference. She grew up and became an American politician.

Helen is a delightful, feisty little girl no different than any other child except she is blind and deaf. Her early life is one of inner frustration and loneliness, though, because of her inability

Sally Ride is glued to the classroom television as astronaut John Glenn blasts off into space. "I want to do that," she quietly says to herself, only to be reminded that girls can't be astronauts. They

Ruth Bader Ginsburg was an American lawyer and jurist who served as an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1993 until her death in September 2020. She was the second woman

This is a Multi-media fully immersive show about the life of Queen Elizaebth II, it is not a lecture. This is my biggest production to date, to celebrate my 20th Anniversary of performing Historical

Come with Sneak Peek Productions as we walk through the grandeur of the White House at Christmastime. From presidents past, we look at decorations, trees, and ceremony through pictures, words, and music.

Colonial Americans did not have HBO, bowling, or shopping malls. So what did they do for sport and entertainment? Well, they spied on their neighbors, of course!

We examine punishments for law-breakers

Of the early first ladies in the United States, Dolley Madison, wife of James Madison, fourth president of the United States, has been considered the most colorful. In her eight years in Washington,

Although it's the president of the United States who runs for office, his wife also becomes a very public figure, oftentimes to her dismay. Many a first lady has shed a tear or two upon learning of

Have you ever wondered about the day-to-day lives of our colonial ancestors? Were the good old days really that good? Exactly how did one use a chamber pot? How many skirts did one woman wear at a time?

Test your knowledge of historical myths and tall tales in this interactive program for all ages. For example:

True or false? As late as 1892 in Rhode Island, a suspected vampire was exhumed so

Throughout history, people have fought the elements for survival, and became quite inventive doing it. Surviving long cold winter days and nights was not just about a fire in the fireplace. It involved

Sneak Peek Productions is pleased as punch to present an interactive program that tests your knowledge regarding common phrases. Put your best foot forward and join in a game where you can win a fabulous

Today, if you see a person walking down the street in a white lab coat, what profession do you assume they practice? A doctor, of course. But how would you recognize a physician in the 1600s? Would

Sojourns is a Humanities program designed to bring the lives of outstanding African American women to schools and general audiences. Included in the performance series are Phillis Wheatley, Frances

The Solstice Sackbuts, costumed as time-travelers from the Renaissance, take the audience on a musical tour through the centuries, starting with medieval and Renaissance music, and continuing with Baroque,

Take a vacation for a day while the Solstice Sackbuts take you on an international tour with a program of folk and pop music from around the world. No passports are required while your toes tap to sambas,

The Solstice Sackbuts perform (in costume) a concert full of tricks and treats and great music including an array of spooky musical classics and Halloween favorites. They provide interesting and humorous

Songs & Stories - The Highwaymen is a program about the four legendary country artists, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson and Waylon Jennings. I talk a bit about their careers and also

Through the use of historically accurate cothing as well as original and reproduction artifacts, the Southcoast Historical Associates will present an overview of life in Southeastern Massachusettes

Through the use of historically correct clothing, weapons and accoutrements presentors will explain what the daily life for soldiers as well as civilians was like during the American Civil War. This

Performers will set up an exact replica of a 17th century fur trading post. These posts were prevelent in early colonial New England. All the trade items and artifacts will be explained and described

Through the use of a re-created 17th century New England fur trading post, the audience will learn about the interaction between the early English colonists and the local Native Americans. All the artifacts,

Come learn about the actual pirates who roamed New England waters from 1630-1730. Pirate captains such as Dixey Bull, Robert Quelch, Thomas Tew and Sam Bellamy will be discussed. And don`t forget the

Sparky's Puppets dramatize stories from children's books with colorful hand puppets, lively humor and plenty of audience participation. Programs include "Aesop's Fables," "Stories from Snowy Lands,"

Jumpin' Juba, a piano/guitar blues duo, presents a concise overview of early to modern blues styles and songs. We show the audience how one might arrange a simple blues for piano, for open-tuned slide

Theater enthusiast Brian Stoll will discuss all things Broadway beginning with an update on the current state of Broadway since COVID. He will also share the history and importance of the Broadway Playbill

Sumner McClain tells stories from the Afro-American tradition, as well as those taken from literature. His stories celebrate the human spirit. 'Daddy King' his original story of Martin Luther King as

Ms. Magoozy has mastered the art of enthusiastically bringing stories to life through puppets, props, music and a wild imagination. Shear interactive silliness! Seriously :)

Holiday Programs:

Hokey

The presentation on historical European swordsmanship is a combination of lecture/discussion and physical demonstration. We seek to link the correlation between the book and the sword and as such we

Through story, song, theatre, and audience participation, TAINO explores the world that Columbus encountered in his many voyages to America, and the subsequent transformation of that world with the

The Supremes were trendsetters who broke down racial, gender and societal barriers by gaining popularity with both black and white audiences worldwide during the 1960s and 70s. This multimedia lecture

What effects did Motown's popularity as "The Sound of Young America" have on the Civil Rights Movement? This multimedia program traces the development of--and interconnections between the burgeoning

A lecture and historically costumed recreation of a 19th century "head-reading."

Irish-born musician Tom O'Carroll, tells the tales and sings the songs of his native city. This capital city on the River Liffey has an abundance of history and colorful characters and Tom will introduce

Irish-born musician and folklorist Tom O'Carroll examines the Irish influence around the world from early times to the present. The narrative begins with the founding of the Dal Riada kingdom on the

Irish-born folksinger Tom O'Carroll takes a musical journey that traces the history of the Irish people from the Stone Age to the present. Drawing on archaeological data, historical records, as well

Journey through the Traveling Trunk and learn about Black inventors through an interactive, hands-on approach. Oral biographies and authentic artifacts, replicas, and inventor photographs are used to

A Visit with General and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant

After a brief introduction and survey of the General’s life before the Civil War, the engagements, habits and contributions of the General

General & Mrs. Grant arrive on horse back in an outdoor field.  

They dismount and Mrs. Grant presents a 15 minute introduction of her husband to set the stage.  The General discusses

Scotty Swan has developed a fun and magical show filled with audience participation that takes you back in time and performs his version of an early 19th century street magic show. Presented as a historical

Dressing from corset to gloves, Kandie Carle takes her audience on a journey of discovery on the everyday lives of Victorian and Edwardian men, women and children. Using authentic as well as historically

Presenter Kandie Carle, aka The Victorian Lady, has an extensive background in researching and presenting on the Regency, (1790-1820), Victorian (1860s & 1890s), and Edwardian (1800-1915) eras.

A World Of Harmony:
Over the past decade, Windborne has sought out masters of traditional singing styles from around the world to study a variety of vocal music. Through these collaborations, they

Music and song have always been a important part of movements for peoples rights. From the Diggers in 16th century England advocating the "leveling" of the social classes, to voting rights in the 1840s

Learn the basics of boating safety, including warning flags, weather signs, navigation, and personal flotation devices. Practice with model ships on a custom water tank. Sprinkled with fun land lubber

Learn to dip candles just like Laura Ingalls did in Little House on the Prairie. Participants are able to choose wax colors, scents, and shapes of candles, and may choose to hand dip or use candle molds.

This program is an introduction to the art of dressage, as performed by the Spanish Riding School and Lippizaner Stallions of Austria. Participants will learn dance moves that mimick the moves of the

Our pigeon journey started when one crash landed in my front yard as a teen. Soon my father had built a coop, collected a rag tag crew of breeding birds, and began training drives in preparation for

Have you ever wondered how ancient people told time? Got from point A to point B without a smart phone or compass? Made it over the underground railroad, or to far away countries over the seven seas?

Learn to make soap the old fashioned way! This program allows participants to craft their own soap with a variety of molds and natural additions such as hibiscus flowers, jojoba, lavender, vanilla beans,

This program utilizes a floor size game format to learn about space and to explore the many components of what makes up the universe. It is suitable for young children and fosters curiosity about constellations,

Since 1985, Jessa Piaia has performed at educational and cultural sites throughout New England. Her character portrayals celebrate women of the past whose diverse lives span three centuries. In her

The harmonica is a worldwide instrument voicing the music of hundreds of cultures. And one simple reason could be its SIZE. It fits in your pocket like a cell phone. What has intrigued many in the music

I offer a program in which I discuss the book I wrote about the Ivy League in honor of my late father (www.lionstigersbulldogs.com) and the circuitious path I took to publshing it.

I also offer

The Story of An 18th Century Woman from A Prominent New England Family Who Went from A Life of Privilege to The Gallows

Bathsheba Spooner was the daughter of Timothy Ruggles, a general in the

Meet the uniquely fascinating entrepreneur, inventor and founding father. With humor and drama, Ben shows his youthful days as a compulsive reader with a hungry mind, his tremendously successful rise

On February 18, 1952, a vicious Nor’easter wrecked two gigantic oil tankers less then 20 miles off the coast of Cape Cod. To save the crewmen, the Coast Guard braved towering waves that reached

Seventy-foot waves batter a tattered life raft 250 miles out to sea in one of the world’s most dangerous places, the Gulf Stream. Hanging onto the raft are three men, a Canadian, a Brit, and their

Drawing from the research in his book, Tougias discusses the causes, the battles, and the aftermath of America’s first war between colonists and natives, covering the time period between the landing

During the height of the blizzard of 1978, the pilot boat Can Do set out from Gloucester, MA with five men onboard, to assist a lost Coast Guard boat and an oil tanker in a Mayday situation. Using dramatic

During the colonial period and the time of the American Revolution, freedom was on the minds of all people, including those held in captivity or on the margins in the free Black communities. There were

Drawing from her own travels, internationally known storyteller Valerie Tutson brings to life an assortment of myths, folktales and historical accounts from the African continent and the African Diaspora.

Award-winning author Alison O’Leary presents the true story of men and
 women pitted against the sea during World War II - an unforgettable portrait
 of the determination of