Join us for a fascinating journey across Ohio and the United States to discover historic opera houses and small-town theatres from the turn of the nineteenth century that have been brought back to life and are now once again providing entertainment and a gathering space for their communities. We will step back in time to learn about these buildings that not only tell the story of entertainment in America but also the story of the people in their communities as they came together for graduations, elections, and the events that touched their lives. Discover how the charm, beauty, and history of these restored "jewel boxes" are a part of the rich American cultural tapestry. Michael Hurwitz graduated from the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in 1967. He holds a BA from the Ohio Dominican University and an MA from California State University with a Professional Degree from the British American Drama Academy and Julliard with studies at Balliol College, at the University of Oxford, England. Michael was an Adjunct Professor at Urbana University. His books include D.W. Griffith's 1915 Film, The Birth of a Nation: The Film That Transformed America; There's Gold in Your Attic: A Collector’s Memoirs; Backstage with Booth: Behind the Scenes of the Lincoln Assassination; Ohio's Historic Opera Houses; and Long Journey Home: A Soldier's Story. His plays include Theatre on the Second Floor and Long Journey Home. His documentary films include The Great Southern Theatre: Revival of a Legend. Michael and his wife Jacquie have been married since 1975 and have a daughter, Sarah. Michael is a Vietnam Era Army veteran with distinguished service at Headquarters Company for the United States Army. He has consulted on ten successful Opera House/Theatre restorations.