TEDxHudson at the Hudson Opera House

Since its founding as City Hall in 1855 until 1962, when the building was abandoned, the Hudson Opera House was a popular stop for traveling performers, authors, and lecturers. Notable speakers included the Transcendentalist poet and essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson and the author and poet Bret Harte. Susan B. Anthony visited at least twice, speaking out against slavery and for woman suffrage. In 1914, Theodore Roosevelt regaled a crowd with accounts of his adventures in Africa. 

This Saturday, the great tradition continues with TEDxHudson, which brings inspiring speakers together to explore the theme of "Crossroads."

The event was announced in May, at the Hudson Opera House Spring Fling Gala. Yesterday, HOH revealed the full list of speakers and performers who will participate in the all day event this Saturday. The guest of honor is Alice Waters; the TEDxHudson House Band is made up of Bobby Previte (music director), Brian Dewan, and Jonathan Talbott. 

The event has been sold out for weeks. For the fortunate who have secured their tickets, here is a preview of what's in store.

Session 1  (in alphabetical order)
Ben Banks, Farmer and Environmentalist
Guillermo Fesser, Journalist
Charles T. Gehring, Historian
Chris Johnson, Cultural Historian
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Environmentalist
Alice Waters, Chef, Restaurateur, Food Activist, and Author
Young Paris, Musician

Session 2 (in alphabetical order)
Lisa Dolan, Educator
Lady Moon, Singer/Songwriter
Jack Lindsey, Community Activist
Katharine Millonzi, Gastronomist
Bruno Pasquier-Desvignes, Artist
Greg Quinn, Horticulture Expert
Pilar Ryan, Leadership Consultant, Historian, and Retired Army Colonel
Tim and Nina Zagat, Entrepreneurs and Publishers

Session 3 (in alphabetical order)
Jamie Bennett, Arts Advocate and Grantmaker
Kat Dunn, Mixologist
Charlie N. Ferrusi, Activist
Coss Marte, Fitness Entrepreneur
Stephanie Monseu, Ringmistress
Eliza Nagel, Lawyer
Surprise Guests

Between Sessions 1 and 2, there will be lunch, provided by Talbott & Arding Cheese and Provisions. After Session 3, there is a cocktail reception, provided by The Hudson Standard, Harvest Spirits, and Due North.