Genealogy & Local History Library, 401 State Street, Alton
Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 6:30 p.m.

Please note – Because this program is presented entirely from memory, concentration by the performer is critical. In order to assist with this, this program is limited to patrons aged thirteen and older.

With the lights turned down and the Gothic-style architecture of the Genealogy & Local History Library adding to the ambiance, patrons are in for an atmospheric treat as Anne Williams, historic interpreter and performer, will recite dramatically, from memory, several works by the author Edgar Allan Poe as well as scenes from another October favorite, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, by Washington Irving. Poe’s stories will include The Tell-Tale Heart, The Black Cat, The Raven, and others. This is Anne’s second time performing at Hayner Library. Her performance last year was so well-received that we have invited her back for an encore presentation—one you won’t want to miss!

Anne has shared the authors’ stories and poems with audiences at historic sites in New York, Philadelphia, Richmond, and regionally in Missouri and Illinois. She has worked with the National Park Service, St. Louis Public Radio, and many historic sites on various projects, including dramatic recitation of literature and historic speeches, creating and performing in short plays, reconstructing historic events, film narration, and a complete audio production of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Anne has collaborated with Ballet 314 and Opera Theater Saint Louis.

Seating is limited. Please call 1-800-613-3163 to register for this program.