NATIONALLY KNOWN DISNEY EXPERTS TO SPEAK AT UW-WHITEWATER
This spring, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater will host two nationally recognized Disney experts for on-campus events at the University Center. On April 9 at 6:00 p.m., Disney author and prominent podcaster Michael Bowling will speak about a variety of Disney business and creative greats, including Walt Disney and Roy Disney. Author and historian Todd James Pierce will speak on April 23 about the Sherman Brothers, the song-writing duo behind Mary Poppins and other classic Disney films. Both presentations are free and open to the public, but the university encourages advance registration.
Michael Bowling is a prominent Disney historian, author, and podcaster known for his deep expertise in the life and legacy of Walt Disney. Bowling is most recognized as the host of the “Connecting with Walt” podcast, which explores the historical connections between Walt Disney’s personal life, his business ventures, and the development of Disney theme parks and films. Bowling’s presentation, on Thursday, April 9 at 6:00 p.m., will focus on the career journey of several Disney Legends. Each Disney great’s career journey was a meandering one, often marked by hardships along the way before ultimately cementing Legend status.
Following Bowling’s presentation, there will be a meet-and-greet reception, with light appetizers, also open to the public. Register for the April 9 Michael Bowling event at this website: https://my.uww.edu/SignUp/Public/Register/17906
Two weeks later, on Thursday, April 23 at 6:00 p.m., scholar Todd James Pierce will speak on campus. Pierce is the author of such Disney histories as Making Mary Poppins: The Sherman Brothers, Walt Disney, and the Creation of a Classic Film and other books about the history of the Walt Disney Company and Disney Legends. Pierce will share stories of the Sherman brothers’ unusual career journeys. Each man’s journey was marked by career changes, and each moved away from early professional dreams. However, those changes ultimately helped them both quite a bit and eventually led them to Disney Legend status as the songwriting duo behind some of the most beloved showtunes of all time, not only for Mary Poppins, but other Disney classics such as The Jungle Book, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and The Parent Trap. Pierce’s presentation will also be followed by a meet-and-greet with the author. That reception is also open to the public and will include light appetizers. Register for the April 23 Todd James Pierce event at this website: https://my.uww.edu/SignUp/Public/Register/17907
Both speakers are presented by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater office of Continuing Education. Many people are like the Sherman Brothers and do not always have a direct career path. Continuing Education has exceptional programs for everyone in their lifelong learning journey. Learners can strengthen their skills with affordable, high-quality workshops, classes and trainings designed for adults and professionals. Youth and teens develop their talents in fun programs led by award-winning coaches and staff. Special sessions and hands-on learning opportunities help students stay on track to graduation.
