Oceanside Theatre Company Launches New
Books At The Brooks Literary Series With
Inspiring Program On Courageous Women in History
Acclaimed local authors Jill G. Hall, Elizabeth St.John and Janell Strube to headline inaugural literary event Sunday, July 26, 10 a.m. at the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater
(Oceanside, CA) — Oceanside Theatre Company (OTC at the Brooks) will launch its new Books at the Brooks Literary Series on Sunday, July 26, inviting readers, history lovers and lifelong learners to gather for a morning where literature, lively conversation and traditional tea come together in celebration of extraordinary women whose courage transcended the boundaries of their time.
The inaugural program, “Courageous Women in a Man’s World: Exploring Historical Stories of Defiance, Perseverance and Power,” will feature acclaimed local authors Jill G. Hall, Elizabeth St.John and Janell Strube. Through meticulously researched historical novels, the authors illuminate remarkable women whose lives have too often been overlooked, revealing stories of resilience, conviction and lasting influence.
Moderated by Porsche Locker, co-host of Coastal Crimes and media personality, the discussion will explore the remarkable women behind each novel—from the visionary leader who transformed Lomaland into an international center for education, culture and peace, to a daring Royalist spy navigating England’s Civil War, to a gifted artist who broke barriers to earn recognition among the masters of French art during the French Revolution.
“The Brooks has always been a place where stories come to life,” said OTC’s Producing Artistic Director Kevin “Blax” Burroughs. “With Books at the Brooks, we’re extending that tradition beyond the stage by creating a welcoming gathering place where authors and readers can share ideas, discover remarkable history and celebrate the enduring power of great storytelling.”
FEATURED BOOKS
Jill G. Hall, On a Sundown Sea — A novel inspired by Katherine Tingley, the visionary leader who transformed Lomaland into an internationally recognized center for education, culture and peace in early 20th-century Southern California.
Elizabeth St.John, Written in Their Stars — The Lydiard Chronicles, 1649–1664 — Based on the true story of the author’s ancestors, this historical novel follows three courageous women whose loyalty, resilience, and sacrifice help shape England’s future during the Civil War.
Janell Strube, Adélaïde: Painter of the Revolution — Inspired by the true story of one of the first women admitted to the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture is a sweeping, evocative portrait of ambition, courage, and resilience in the face of history’s fiercest storm.
All books will be available for purchase. To order your copies prior to the event, go to Bookshop.org. A portion of proceeds benefit local indie bookstores.
The authors will discuss the historical research behind their novels, the hidden histories they uncovered, and the ways their subjects overcame social barriers and expectations of their time. Attendees will also have an opportunity to meet the authors during a reception featuring book sales, signings and traditional afternoon Tea following the panel discussion, catered and sponsored in part by Sunny Street Outreach.
The new Books at the Brooks series is part of OTC’s Arts Unite programming, expanding the artistic and cultural experiences available at the Brooks while creating new opportunities for community learning, conversation and engagement. The inaugural event is underwritten by the Oceanside California Cultural District, with donations supporting the ongoing Revitalize the Brooks campaign, a $2.2 million renovation project to upgrade and enhance the 90-year old historic cultural center.
EVENT DETAILS
Books at the Brooks Literary Series Debut
Courageous Women in a Man’s World: Exploring Historical Stories of Defiance,
Perseverance and Power
Date: Sunday, July 26, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Author Panel Discussion
11:00 a.m. – Reception, Book Sales, Signing and Tea Reception
Location:Sunshine Brooks Theater, 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054
Admission: Author Panel Discussion Free; $25/person suggested donation for Tea Reception
Tickets/RSVP:www.oceansidetheatre.org/tickets
The event is underwritten by the Oceanside California Cultural District.
About Oceanside Theatre Company
Oceanside Theatre Company (OTC), the resident company of the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater in downtown Oceanside, is a cornerstone of the Oceanside California Cultural District. OTC presents professional theatre, live music, film, literary and visual arts programming, along with year-round youth education programs and school outreach initiatives. Through innovative programming and community partnerships, OTC enriches the cultural life of North County while preserving and revitalizing one of Oceanside’s most treasured historic arts venues.
Learn more about Oceanside Theatre Company at oceansidetheatre.org or follow @oceansidetheatrecompany on social media.