March 22, 2024 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
On March 22 at 6:00 PM, JoAnn Peterson of Frostburg, MD, a professional actor of stage and film, will be doing a first-person portrayal of Shirley Temple Black titled “From Child Star to Diplomat” at the Miller House. As a child star, Shirley Temple was the top box office draw from 1935-1938 in the world. She grew up to become a diplomat, author, and loving mother.
The presentation is in the Chautauqua-style format, beginning with a monologue which JoAnn wrote based on extensive research using primary and secondary sources, articles, books, films, and interviews, followed by Q&A of Shirley, and then a Q&A of JoAnn after she breaks character.
The earrings and blouse worn by JoAnn during her portrayal actually belonged to Shirley. The blouse was worn at her first reception in Prague as Ambassador to Czechoslovakia. JoAnn owns and will display Shirley’s iconic ensemble worn when she received the Screen Actor’s Guild’s Lifetime Achievement Award, purchased from Shirley’s estate. This is very appropriate since JoAnn’s portrayal is a tribute to the achievements of Shirley Temple Black’s whole life, not just her years as a child star.
Doing first person portrayals combines JoAnn’s love of acting and history. Her research of Ambassador Black has led JoAnn to California, New York City, and Prague, Czech Republic, where she toured the US Embassy and Ambassador’s Residence and interviewed four women who worked under Shirley. She also interview Michael Zantovsky, the right-hand man of Vaclav Havel, the dissident who became President of Czechoslovakia, and whom Shirley befriended.
This event will have light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar that will feature the classic Shirley Temple drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic version available). Call us with questions or to reserve your ticket at 301-797-8782 or email at info@washcohistory.org.
$25 – $30
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