The Amanda Park Timberland Library presents Happy Propaganda: American Big Bands and WWII, a lecture and performance by Diana Marré from 3 to 4:30 p.m., March 23 for teens and adults.

Diana Marré (pictured at left) plays the music that made the boys and girls fall in love, fight for their country, and above all, dance! The recent popularity of swing dance and bands, Cherry Poppin Daddies and Brian Setzer Swing Orchestra, just goes to show that "everything old is new again."

Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, and Bennie Goodman all played for American troops and helped civilians cope with food shortages and the loss of loved ones. Band leaders like Duke Ellington, Count Basic, and Mary Lou Williams knew how to "get the joint jumpin’".

Join Dr. Marré for an hour of great music and interesting history. Audience questions will be welcomed. The Friends of the Amanda Park Timberland Library will provide coffee and refreshments.

Dr. Marré was born and reared in Arkansas where she grew up playing the blues on piano and guitar. As an undergraduate music major, she studied classical organ in Europe. She holds an MFA in creative writing and has published a novel and several plays. Her Ph.D. is in dramatic art. Dr. Marré has produced over 20 plays. She teaches humanities and creative writing at Tacoma Community College.