Entertainment : In Depth: Argo to bring former hostage Koob to Palace today

The Palace will show “Argo,” the latest Ben Affleck offering based on the 1979 Iranian hostage crisis, beginning December 7. Patrons attending the Monday, December 10 matinee or evening show will be treated to a visit from former hostage Kathryn Koob.

Kathryn grew up near Jesup, Iowa—and though she has traveled the world and lived in several different countries, she claims there is no better place than Iowa to enjoy retirement. She currently enjoys life in Waverly, Iowa. Kate, as many know her, holds a B.A. in Speech/Drama and Religion from Wartburg College, and an M.A. in Theatre from the University of Denver. She also has an M.A.R. (Master of Arts in Religion), an academic degree, from Lutheran Theological Seminary, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. She was awarded the Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causis) from Gwynedd Mercy College in 1981, and Uppsala College in 1983.

Kathryn spent over twenty-seven years in the diplomatic service of the United States working in the area of cultural and education exchange. In addition she also served as a public affairs officer and press attaché, and was a speechwriter for several ambassadors. She is likely most remembered during her Foreign Service career for the 444 days she spent as a hostage in the American Embassy in Tehran. She authored a book recounting her experience as an Iranian hostage titled “Guest of the Revolution.” From 1999 to 2008 she was an adjunct/visiting professor at Wartburg College teaching courses in Oral Communication, Intercultural Communication, (a General Multi-Cultural Studies course) in addition to courses in reconciliation, “Image of God in religion and culture” and theatre. She continues to travel, and is looking forward to a 90 snowbird cruise to the Far East in January.

Weather permitting, Kathryn will be on hand following the Monday matinee and at 6:45 p.m. before the 7 p.m. show to discuss her experience, make comparisons to the movie and take questions. We hope you’ll join us for this unique opportunity.

CLEANING HOUSE: Seats still available

The Palace still has 22 of the old balcony seats available. They are yours for the taking. Contact me at 319/472-9892 or email us at managers@vintonpalace.org.