Hilbert Museum presents:
Charles Phoenix: "Southern California in Kodachrome - A Big Retro Slideshow Celebrating SoCal in the '50's and '60s"
Sunday, July 19, 2026 | 2:00 p.m.
Hilbert Museum presents retro pop-culture humorist and historian Charles Phoenix, for an entertaining and enlightening mid-century time-travel celebration of the “Land of Plenty.” Be prepared for your SoCal-lovin’ spirit to soar as never before!
Charles supercharges the classic living-room slide show, lavishing spirited commentary on the very best of his curated collection of found Kodachrome slides revealing the stories and glories of Southern California in the 1950s and ‘60s. Experience local landmarks, iconic attractions, space-age suburbia, classic car culture, unique architecture, theme parks, festive parties and more galore! Charles will also share his favorite California Scene paintings from the Hilbert Museum’s treasured collection.
After the show, refreshments will be served, and guests are invited to enjoy the art-filled galleries.
This presentation is part of the Curated Perspectives Series at the Hilbert Museum, generously sponsored by Bank of America.
Running time: 120 minutes with intermission and Q&A.
BACKSTORY: While thrift shopping in 1992, Charles discovered an old shoebox full of Kodachrome slides marked “Trip Across the USA, 1957.” The contents of that box changed the course of his life. He has been collecting and curating “found” Kodachrome slides and performing his very popular retro slide shows ever since. The Hilbert Museum is delighted to welcome this beloved performer and personality to share his talent and slides with you! More information: www.charlesphoenix.com.
Certain events and discounts are offered to Chapman Students, Faculty, and Staff; you must first log in using your Chapman single sign-on . If available, access and discounts will appear for you to select based on your Chapman affiliation.
Location
Burra Family Community Room
Hilbert Museum of California Art
167 N. Atchison Street
Orange, CA 92866
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Open To
The entire Chapman Community and the General Public.
Event Pricing
Admission to the galleries is always free.
Lecture Admission: $55
Parking
Free parking is available in the Old Towne West parking structure, located at 130 N. Lemon Street, one block east of the museum.
For more detailed parking information, visit the Hilbert Museum website.
Ticketing Services
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and one hour prior to most events.Location: 337 N. Cypress St., Orange, CA 92866. Parking is available in the driveway.