History   

This introductory course provides a history of Albania, its culture, and contemporary life, focusing on the communist regime of Albania from 1944 to 1991.

We'll interpret Ellis Island arrival records, show how they can be used to get info about ancestors, and suggest methods for using them to help discover living relatives in the ancestor's country of origin. Students are encouraged to submit their own ancestors’ info for use as examples.

The recovery of France, the country of my birth, in the 30 years post-WWII was stunning (hence "Les 30 Glorieuses" - the Glorious Thirties). We'll explore the major changes, including those in the population's culture and lifestyle during that time, and some major setbacks (such as colonial wars).

This set of classes will feature talks on the following film stars of the "Silent Film" era: Harold Lloyd, Mack Sennett and the Sennett Film Studios, Buster Keaton, and the history of Silent Film Era Westerns. Silent-era film clips will be a part of this series of classes.

We'll tour the theater's backstage, dressing rooms, and fly loft; view a slideshow of the restoration, old theater photos and a look at the life of Sylvester Z. Poli, builder/operator of the Poli chain of theaters; and meet with the theater's C-level officers to discuss theater operations and future plans.

Please Note: This course will take place at the Palace Theater, 100 East Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06702.