Cinematic Canines and Circus Stars in Chicagoland Cemeteries is an immersive talk that explores the intersection of film history, animal performers, and cemetery lore.

In the first half of this program, you'll be transported to Illinois' oldest pet cemetery via original HD video. Here, you'll uncover tales of the first onscreen dogs, discuss the concept "cinema of attractions," and explore Hollywood's gradual recognition of the need for animal protection.

In the second half of the talk, you'll "walk" through another cemetery, this one including plots exclusively reserved for circus and sideshow performers. Amidst the headstones, you'll discover the connections between this space and the world of film and television. Finally, you'll explore the cemetery's haunted history. 

Join us on this journey through Chicagoland's cemeteries, where cinematic canines and circus stars find their eternal rest.