Wednesday, August 23, 2017.  7pm.

Honoring Newport, New Hampshire’s Sunshine Peddler – Film & Performance

On Wednesday, August 23 at 7pm, the Historical Society is happy to introduce members of the Newport (NH) Historical Society to perform Billy B. Van: “The Sunshine Peddler”.  This multi-media (~60 min.) presentation brings to life a book of the same name by Jayna Hooper.  The presentation celebrates silent film star and NH entrepreneur Billy B. Van, his many outstanding accomplishments, and his contributions to American culture that still bear fruit today. It includes slides of his many products, his music, quotes in character, and his silent short film “Plucky Hoodoo,” filmed in the Georges Mills, N.H. area in 1920.  As a special treat, the Historical Society will also show Van’s 1924 short film, “Where are Your Husbands?”.  Live music by musician Jeff Rapsis will accompany the films.  From a vaudeville and Broadway performer to author, dairy farmer, soap maker, radio personality, motivational speaker Van left sunshine in his wake during the darkest days of The Great Depression.  Questions will be welcomed after the presentation and Copies of Billy B. Van: Newport’s Sunshine Peddler will be available.