Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

 

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JuneJulyAugust

September – OctoberNovember

 

 

 

March 2009

 

 
Passport To Ireland

Experience Ireland without leaving home. During your “virtual” journey, enjoy a variety of topics including history, culture, literature, language and music. Explore the emerald isle’s myths and legends including Celtic hero Finn MacCool, creator of the Giants Causeway. Explore the lives of notable people such as James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeates. Listen to the stories of immigrants who left Ireland during the potato famine for an unknown future in America. Discuss modern Ireland’s vibrant economy and youthful optimism. Learn some Gaelic words and phrases and soon you’ll be saying “Please pass the soda bread!” like a native. Daytime classes are enhanced by evening performances. Meals highlight select Irish specialties.

 

 

Program Dates:

 

  • March 15-19, 2009 (4-night program) 

 

Program Number: TBA
Double Per Person $TBA/ Single +$TBA
Key Instructors: TBA

 

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April 2008

 

Spring Scholarly Sound Bites

A new year means new topics for our popular Sound Bites program! Linda Bachand returns with more Broadway music during an exploration of "The Life and Music of Cole Porter." Porter's wit, humor, and joy of life are evident in songs such as "Night and Day," I Get a Kick Out of You," and "You're the Top." Linda's dynamic personality and expert piano playing will get your toes tappin' as you explore character, plot, and music in the musicals "Kiss Me Kate" and "Anything Goes." In addition, we've lined up several other instructors who will teach on a variety of other interesting topics. A field trip to The Fireside Theater for lunch and a matinee performance of Cole Porter's "Anything Goes" along with nightly entertainment rounds out the week.

 

Program includes lunch and a matinee performance of "Anything Goes" at The Fireside Theater.

 

Program Dates:

 

  • April 20-25, 2008
  • April 27-May 2, 2008 

 

Program Number: 13469AU
Double Per Person $710.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: Linda Bachand, Chris Brookes, Greg Athnos, Ed Flesch, Dianne Moller, Trevor Stephenson

 

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May 2008

 

Architectural Gems: Wright-Taliesin, Calatrava-Milwaukee Art Museum, The Lunts-Ten Chimneys (Snapshot Program) 

Experience some of Wisconsin's extraordinary architecture. Explore the Taliesin estate in Spring Green -- Frank Lloyd Wright's 48-year work in progress and laboratory of ideas. Journey to the majestic Wisconsin State Capitol to see the restored rotunda and other rooms. Be amazed by the first Santiago Calatrava-designed building in the U.S. at the Milwaukee Art Museum, featuring a 90-foot high glass walled hall enclosed by the Burke Brise Soleil, a sunscreen that opens and closes to create a unique moving sculpture. Finally, be captivated by the lives of Lynn Fontanne and Alfred Lunt, first couple of the American theater, at their Ten Chimneys estate in Genessee Depot, a unique landmark overflowing with original furnishings and memorabilia.

 

 

THIS IS AN EXTREMELY ACTIVE PROGRAM. Participants will need to negotiate stairs and be comfortable walking on hills and over uneven terrain. Significant walking and standing at other locations. Participants must be able to walk 1-2 miles per day.

 

Program Dates:

 

  • May 5-8, 2008 (3-night program)
  • May 19-22, 2008 (3-night program) 

 

Program Number: 10963AU
Double Per Person $599.00 / Single +$120.00
 

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June 2008

 

Decade By Decade: The 1920s

 

The Roaring 1920's In America

Anything goes in the decade after World War I! Learn about America's post-war prosperity, the age of the flapper, and Prohibition. By the end of the 1920's, the Depression arrives, and the world braces for another world war.

 

The Age of Jazz

Explore the history of jazz as a musical movement in America. Discuss the importance of the phonograph in bringing the music to the masses. Listen to music of jazz greats Count Bassie, Louis Armstrong, band leader Paul Whiteman and others.

 

Life and Works by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Explore the literary works of Minnesota-born F. Scott Fitzgerald and his commentary on the early 20th century. Delve into Scott and Zelda's often tumultous relationship and dig into Fitzgerald's best known novel, "The Great Gatsby."

 

Program Dates:

 

  • June 1-6, 2008 

 

Program Number: 12291AU
Double Per Person $710.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: Ellen Langill, Joe Lill, Kristy Odelius, Trevor Stephenson
 

 

Presidential Election, U.S. Constitution & Neil Simon

 

Presidential Election Year

The race is on for the White House! Will the Democrats take back the presidency after eight years of GOP control or will the Repulicans hang on for another four. Take a look at election history and make some connections to the current race.

 

Origin Of The U.S. Constitution

The Founding Fathers built several important ideas into the U.S. Constitution: the rule of law, separation of powers, federalism and checks and balances. What models did the framers refer to? Do these principles remain relevant today?

 

Broadway Hit Playwright Neil Simon

Explore the life and works or award-winning writer Neil Simon. From "The Phil Silvers Show" to "Lost in Yonkers" to "The Odd Couple," Simon creates characters we all relate to. Enjoy lunch at "Barefoot in the Park" at The Fireside Theater in Fort Atkinson.

 

Program Dates:

 

  • June 15-20, 2008 

 

Program Number: 12335AU
Double Per Person $710.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: David Koeller, Kurt Peterson, Chris Brookes, Trevor Stephenson
 
Duos: Comedy Teams, Political Couples and Music Partners
 

Join us for a week devoted to twosomes. Begin with a look at the lives of noted comedy teams such as Abbott and Costello, and Burns and Allen. Relive some of their classic routines. Then move into the political arena and delve into the public and personal lives of famous couples who occupied the White House. What would John and Abigail Adams think about Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt? Wrap up with some Broadway music from George and Ira Gershwin, Rodgers and Hart, and Lerner and Lowe. Explore these often turbulent partnerships and listen to some classic hit songs. Program includes lunch and a matinee performance of Neil Simon's "Barefoot in the Park" at The Fireside Theater.

Program Dates:

 

  • June 22-27, 2008 

 

Program Number: 15059AU
Double Per Person $710.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: Christine Brookes, Linda Bachand, Ellen Langill 

 

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July 2008

 

Lake Geneva: Newport Of The West

(Snapshot Program)

Listen to stories of famous Chicago families who built their summer homes (mansions) along the Geneva Lake shore; you'll recognize the names Field, Wrigley, and Maytag. An exploration of the historical museum will bring back memories from a time when life was, perhaps, a bit simpler. Journey by boat for a guided visit of the historic Black Point estate built in 1888, now a museum house. The bluff top location provides a commanding view of the lake. Conclude with a visit to Yerkes Observatory in nearby Williams Bay. Opened in 1897, the observatory houses the world's largest refracting telescope; learn about the 100+ year history of this famous landmark. By program's end, you'll know why they call Lake Geneva the "Newport of the West."

 

THIS IS AN EXTREMELY ACTIVE PROGRAM. Participants will need to negotiate approximately ~120 stairs to reach the Black Point estate from the lake pier. Significant walking and standing at other locations. Participants must be able to walk 1-2 miles per day.

 
Program Dates:

 

  • July 6-9, 2008 

 

 

Program Number: 11027AU
Double Per Person $595.00 / Single +$120.00
 

 

Comparative Religions: Finding Common Ground

 

What Does It Mean To Be Christian?

Explore Christianity's history and its connections to Judaism and Islam. Who was Jesus Christ and what did he teach his disciples? Discuss Christian biblical teachings and how Christians seek answers to questions and challenges of modern life.

 

What Does It Mean To Be Jewish?

"Travel" to Jerusalem and discuss this city's importance to Jews, Muslims, and Christians. Examine the life of the first Hebrew, Abraham, and his descendants, the Torah and its teachings, and the history of Jewish high holidays.

 

What Does It Mean To Be Muslim?

Learn about Mecca and the concept of pilgrimage that lives on in Islam, Judaism and Christianity. Focus on the life of the prophet Mohammed and the Five Pillars of Islam described in the Qur'an.

 

Program Dates:

 

  • July 20-25, 2008 

 

Program Number: 11287AU
Double Per Person $710.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: 

 

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August 2008

 

Lake Geneva: Newport Of The West

Listen to stories of famous Chicago families who built their summer homes (mansions) along the Geneva Lake shore; you'll recognize the names Field, Wrigley, and Maytag. An exploration of the historical museum will bring back memories from a time when life was, perhaps, a bit simpler. Journey by boat for a guided visit of the historic Black Point estate built in 1888, now a museum house. The bluff top location provides a commanding view of the lake. Conclude with a visit to Yerkes Observatory in nearby Williams Bay. Opened in 1897, the observatory houses the world's largest refracting telescope; learn about the 100+ year history of this famous landmark. By program's end, you'll know why they call Lake Geneva the "Newport of the West."

 

THIS IS AN EXTREMELY ACTIVE PROGRAM. Participants will need to negotiate approximately 100 stairs to reach the Black Point estate from the lake pier. Significant walking and standing at other locations. Participants must be able to walk 1-2 miles per day.

 
Program Dates:

 

  • August 3-6, 2008 (3-night Snapshot program)

 

Program Number: 11027AU
Double Per Person $595.00 / Single +$120.00

 

 

Summer Scholarly Sound Bites

Come enjoy Wisconsin's spectacular summer at the lake! Our featured instructor, Mr. Greg Athnos, has taught well over 100 Elderhostel lectures on a variety of topics. This time around he'll take you on an exploration of "Transitions in the Western World as seen in Art and Music." Art and music in the Western World have been marked by an evolution of style and artistic concept. Trace five points of transition, from the Gothic cathedrals of France to the turbulent 20th Century. In addition, we've lined up several other instructors who will teach on a variety of other interesting topics.

 

Program includes lunch and a matinee performance of "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" at The Fireside Theater.

 

  

Program Dates:
  • August 17-22, 2008 

 

Program Number: 13864AU
Double Per Person $710.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: Greg Athnos

 

 

Architectural Gems: Wright-Taliesin, Calatrava-Milwaukee Art Museum, The Lunts-Ten Chimneys

Experience some of Wisconsin's extraordinary architecture. Explore the Taliesin estate in Spring Green -- Frank Lloyd Wright's 48-year work in progress and laboratory of ideas. Journey to the majestic Wisconsin State Capitol to see the restored rotunda and other rooms. Be amazed by the first Santiago Calatrava-designed building in the U.S. at the Milwaukee Art Museum, featuring a 90-foot high glass walled hall enclosed by the Burke Brise Soleil, a sunscreen that opens and closes to create a unique moving sculpture. Finally, be captivated by the lives of Lynn Fontanne and Alfred Lunt, first couple of the American theater, at their Ten Chimneys estate in Genessee Depot, a unique landmark overflowing with original furnishings and memorabilia.

 

 

THIS IS AN EXTREMELY ACTIVE PROGRAM. Participants will need to negotiate stairs and be comfortable walking on hills and over uneven terrain. Significant walking and standing at other locations. Participants must be able to walk 1-2 miles per day.

 

Program Dates:
  • August 25-28, 2008 (3-night Snapshot program) 
Program Number: 10963AU
Double Per Person $625 / Single +$120

 

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September 2008

 

Geniuses Of Art, Literature And Music

 

Decoding The Art Of Leonardo DaVinci

The original Renaissance man, Leonardo da Vinci was an accomplished  engineer, inventor, sculptor and painter. Explore famous works such as the "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper." Discuss his innovative techniques and contributions to the modern world.

 

Tackling The Bard William Shakespeare

Widely regarded as the preeminent poet and playwright of the English language, Shakespeare's works remain popular and are often produced in modern settings. Delve into his life, noted works and his legacy of words that has enriched our vocabulary.

 

Rediscovering The Musical Genius Of J.S. Bach

A prolific composer, Johann Sebastian Bach refined the Baroque contrapuntal style where two or more musical ideas interact simultaneously to new heights. Explore Bach's seemingly endless energy for composition, listen to famous works and enjoy!

 
Program Dates:
  • September 7-12, 2008 
Program Number: 16097AU
Double Per Person $730.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: Greg Athnos

 

Fall Scholarly Sound Bites

Explore "The Hero's Journey" with featured instructor Chris Brookes. "It's not the destination that counts, it's the journey." The timeless messages of mythology are delivered in timely ways. Using examples from ancient mythology, classic literature and modern films, we will explore archetypes of characters and motifs which are reflected in our lives today. From the Greeks to Arthurian legends, "Lord of the Rings" to "Star Wars," the universal pattern of the heroic journey reveals insights on the human experience. Step across the threshold and travel the mythic path from past to present toward the future. In addition, we've lined up "bites" from several other instructors on a variety of topics and an excursion to The Fireside Theater for lunch and a matinee performance of the musical "How to Succeed in Busines Without Really Trying." It will be a great week!

 

Program Dates:
  • September 14-19, 2008
Program Number: 14020AU
Double Per Person $730.00 / Single +$200
Key Instructors: Chris Brookes, Linda Bachand

 

 

Singing Show Tunes in an Elderhostel Choir and More!

A choral session for all who love to sing, whether you have a lot or little musical training. Choral director, Glen Klotz, returns for another week of non-threatening vocal and music instruction; the emphasis is on fun. Learn and practice a variety of show tunes from well-known musicals and then show off your new talents during a performance for an appreciative audience. Give your voice a rest and enjoy presentations of the life and music of composer Cole Porter, best known for the musicals "Anything Goes" and "Kiss Me Kate". In addition, we'll tickle your funny bone with presentations about famous comedians such as Bill Cosby and Phyllis Diller. Learn about their personal lives and relive some classic routines. Sing and laugh all week.

 

Program Dates: 
  • September 21-26, 2008

Program Number: 12623AU
Double Per Person $730.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: Glen Klotz, Linda Bachand, Christine Brookes

 

 

Architectural Gems: Wright-Taliesin, Calatrava-Milwaukee Art Museum, The Lunts-Ten Chimneys

Experience some of Wisconsin's extraordinary architecture. Explore the Taliesin estate in Spring Green -- Frank Lloyd Wright's 48-year work in progress and laboratory of ideas. Journey to the majestic Wisconsin State Capitol to see the restored rotunda and other rooms. Be amazed by the first Santiago Calatrava-designed building in the U.S. at the Milwaukee Art Museum, featuring a 90-foot high glass walled hall enclosed by the Burke Brise Soleil, a sunscreen that opens and closes to create a unique moving sculpture. Finally, be captivated by the lives of Lynn Fontanne and Alfred Lunt, first couple of the American theater, at their Ten Chimneys estate in Genessee Depot, a unique landmark overflowing with original furnishings and memorabilia.

 

THIS IS AN EXTREMELY ACTIVE PROGRAM. Participants will need to negotiate stairs and be comfortable walking on hills and over uneven terrain. Significant walking and standing at other locations. Participants must be able to walk 1-2 miles per day.

 
Program Dates:
  • September 29-October 2, 2008 (3-night Snapshot program)
Program Number: 10963AU
Double Per Person $625.00 / Single +$120.00

 

 
 

 

October 2008

 

 

Decade By Decade: The 1920s

 

The Roaring 1920's In America

Anything goes in the decade after World War I! Learn about America's post-war prosperity, the age of the flapper, and Prohibition. By the end of the 1920's, the Depression arrives, and the world braces for another world war.

 

The Age of Jazz

Explore the history of jazz as a musical movement in America. Discuss the importance of the phonograph in bringing the music to the masses. Listen to music of jazz greats Count Bassie, Louis Armstrong, band leader Paul Whiteman and others.

 

Life and Works by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Explore the literary works of Minnesota-born F. Scott Fitzgerald and his commentary on the early 20th century. Delve into Scott and Zelda's often tumultous relationship and dig into Fitzgerald's best known novel, "The Great Gatsby."

 

Program Dates:
  • October 5-10, 2008 
Program Number: 12291AU
Double Per Person $730.00 / Single +$200.00
Key Instructors: Ellen Langill
  
  

Fall Scholarly Sound Bites

Explore "The Hero's Journey" with featured instructor Chris Brookes. "It's not the destination that counts, it's the journey." The timeless messages of mythology are delivered in timely ways. Using examples from ancient mythology, classic literature and modern films, we will explore archetypes of characters and motifs which are reflected in our lives today. From the Greeks to Arthurian legends, "Lord of the Rings" to "Star Wars," the universal pattern of the heroic journey reveals insights on the human experience. Step across the threshold and travel the mythic path from past to present toward the future. In addition, we've lined up "bites" from several other instructors on a variety of topics and an excursion to The Fireside Theater for lunch and a matinee performance of the musical "How to Succeed in Busines Without Really Trying." It will be a great week!

Program Dates:
  • September 14-19, 2008
Program Number: 14020AU
Double Per Person $730.00 / Single +$200
Key Instructors: Chris Brookes, Linda Bachand
 

Passport To Germany

Experience Germany without leaving home. During your virtual journey, explore a variety of topics including history, culture, literature, language, and music. Delve into Germany's often turbulent history, music by composers Bach and Handel, literary works by Goethe and Brecht, and learn about the Bauhaus style of architecture. Listen to stories of immigrants who left Germany for an unknown future in a place called America. Discuss modern Germany's economy and politics, including their first woman chancellor. Learn some German words and phrases and soon you'll be saying "I'll have a bratwurst with mustard!" like a native. You can also enjoy German specialties at some meals. Daytime classes are enhanced by evening performances.

 

Program Dates:
  • October 19-24, 2008 (4-night program) 
Program Number: 12290AU
Double Per Person $530.00 / Single +$160.00
Key Instructors: TBA

 

November 2008


There are no programs scheduled for November 2008

 

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