An energetic, evocative journey through the history of disco from its roots in 1940s Paris and the clubs of Europe and the United States through its 21st-century revival and lasting global influence. Along the way, enjoy music, videos, and images that bring the era to life, highlighting the fashion, iconic dance styles, and cultural climate that defined the disco age.

Presenter: Mike Kaufman is a Temple University graduate in Radio-TV-Film with a lifelong passion for music and dance trends. He worked as a mobile disc jockey in the Delaware Valley, on WKTK-FM in Catonsville, MD, and programmed music for Maryland’s Dimples Disco. His background in club and radio music informs his enduring interest in disco and dance culture.

This course explores the enduring tension between philosophical ideals and the practical realities that shape society. Through lively discussion, this class invites you to question why philosophy dares to propose—and why reality so often disposes of those ideals. Previous attendance at philosophy classes is a benefit, but newcomers are welcome.

Presenter: Michael Heinsdorf, BA (Muhlenberg College, University of Goettingen) MDiv, STM, MA, is an ordained clergyman, former German instructor at Northeast High School and adjunct at LaSalle University. 

Explore acting techniques as well as develop essential skills that include focus, confidence, creativity, and critical thinking. Participants will have the opportunity to work on acting techniques through monologue and scene study. Special attention will be given to text analysis, character development, and delivery skills to gain applicable skills for audition, rehearsal, and performance processes. ALL LEVELS WELCOME.

Presenter: Retired UDSD theater teacher Debbie Thompson was a professional actress and cabaret performer, and is a founding member of the Upper Dublin Adult Community Players and Everybody’s Theater Company (ETC).

Jazz draws on African musical traditions and developed in the United States, especially in places like New Orleans, as a uniquely American art form. Today, it is performed around the world, with musicians building on its roots while adding their own local styles and influences. In this course, we’ll listen to jazz from different countries and explore how the music continues to evolve globally.

Presenter: John Banger has taught jazz classes in the Delaware Valley area for more than 10 years, on topics including “Jazz Vocalists”, “Masters of Jazz”, “Understanding and Listening to Jazz”, “Jazz and The Great American Songbook”, “From Bessie to Bebop, Brazil and Beyond", Active Jazz Listening for the Non-Musician” and “Jazz Around the World”.

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, enhance personal relationships and learn to have fun again!

This workshop will teach the basic skills in writing a short play for the theater. Students will learn what makes a scene work, how to develop character through dialogue and action, and how to think in theatrical terms. Students will give and receive instructor and peer feedback. All writing levels are welcome.

Presenter: Retired UDSD theater teacher Debbie Thompson was a professional actress and cabaret performer, and is a founding member of the Upper Dublin Adult Community Players and Everybody’s Theater Company (ETC).

Imagine sports talk radio, live in Spring House! Our interactive sessions will discuss hot sports topics, including the Eagles and the NFL off-season, how the Phillies and MLB are shaping up for 2026 (and beyond), the NHL and NBA playoffs, and other relevant, current sports matters. Please join us for some very lively 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.

Many of our First Ladies have led fascinating lives filled with remarkable stories and interesting details. This lecture introduces some of our nation's most significant First Ladies and explores the noteworthy events, accomplishments, and experiences that shaped their lives.

Presenter: David Hudiak is a retired attorney who teaches courses on American History and Government at numerous locations in the Philadelphia area. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from Haverford College and a Juris Doctorate from the Carey Law School of the University of Pennsylvania.