NO CLASS THU 4/2

This course explores the history of jazz, tracing the chronological development of major jazz styles from its early beginnings to the present. In addition to musical evolution, the course examines the cultural, technological, and social influences that shaped jazz over time. Special attention is given to the impact of popular music, particularly the Great American Songbook of the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s. No prior knowledge of jazz is required.

Presenter: John has taught jazz classes in the Delaware Valley area for 10 years, teaching classes on “Jazz Vocalists”, “Masters of Jazz”, “Understanding and Listening to Jazz”, “Jazz and The Great American Songbook”, “From Bessie to Bebop, Brazil and Beyond - a History of Jazz", and “Jazz Around the World”.

NO CLASS THU 4/2, ENDS THU 4/9

Improvisation is more than just games—it’s a fun way to boost creativity, adaptability, and connection. Through engaging games, you'll sharpen your thinking, enhance collaboration, and rediscover the joy of play in everyday life.

Presenter: Jess Carpenter is passionate about improv, which he explored for fun and comedy. He created the award-winning “Comedian Deconstruction” format. As an instructor, he fosters a fun safe environment. Jess helps people embrace unpredictability, better communication, enhances personal relationships and learn to have fun again!

NO CLASS THU 4/2

Examine the evolution and history of some of the most famous Broadway music, composers, orchestrators and instrumentalists. From lighthearted operettas to vaudeville to the Golden Age, though Rock, Pop and beyond, Broadway has provided some of the most iconic music that we continue to enjoy. Don't fiddle on your roof, head to Oklahoma or worry about your hair, just join the chorus line directly to this music-filled course.

Presenter: Jeff Thomas has been a music lover for nearly seven decades. He played trombone well enough to have a career in accounting. He continues to study and enjoy many genres of music, including jazz, classical, rock, pop and show tunes. Jeff enjoys sharing his love of music with his students, and he looks forward to seeing many familiar faces in this course.

SESSIONS: Mondays 11:30am-12:45pm OR 1:45-3:00pm

ENDS MON 4/13

Study the importance of shape, value, and composition, and learn to draw from studio setups and photographs. Open to all skill levels. Required supplies: drawing pencils and 9" × 12" drawing paper.

Presenter: Jackie Drewes is a former art school recruiter who has studied with various oils, pastels and watercolor artists.

UPDATED SCHEDULE: STARTS FRI 3/6, NO CLASS FRI 4/3, ENDS FRI 4/17

Imagine sports talk radio, live at UDPL! Our interactive sessions will discuss hot sports topics, including the Super Bowl and other NFL issues, Spring Training and how MLB is shaping up for 2026 and beyond, the NHL and NBA seasons, and other relevant, current sports matters. Please join us for some exciting sports discussions.

Presenter: Jeff Thomas has played, watched, read about, lectured on and loved sports for almost 70 years. As an almost 50-year Temple U. and Phillies season ticket holder, Jeff very well understands the frustrations of Philly sports fans.

Enjoy an afternoon of laughter at our Stand-Up Comedy Showcase, featuring a lively lineup of talented comics ready to brighten your day.

Host: Jess Carpenter, an MC and comedian with over 15 years of experience, has performed primarily on the East Coast. He hosted many comedy shows and was a founding member of his team Iron Lung, His show, Comedian Deconstruction, won Best New Improv Format at the New Zealand Comedy Festival.

RESCHEDULED! New Date Friday 4/24

Portraiture reflects people and their time and place, deepening our understanding of social, cultural, and political history. While the lack of diversity in many museum collections remains evident, modern and contemporary portraiture offers new possibilities through an African American lens. Join this art appreciation discussion as we explore how Black figuration has energized artistic practice and revitalized the genre. Short videos will provide additional perspectives on how we look at and interpret art.

Presenter: Lynn Berkowitz, MFA, BFA, with a career in art museums, has developed an array of award-winning gallery tours, experiences, and apps aimed at helping audiences of all ages and abilities engage with a diversity of artists, ‘isms, and approaches.