All about Mel Brooks

Mel Brooks is a very funny man who makes movies and TV shows to make people laugh. He was born on June 28, 1926, in Brooklyn, New York. When he was a boy, he loved to watch comedians and dreamt of making people laugh too. As he grew up, he started writing jokes and performing in the army during World War II.

After the war, Mel worked on TV shows, including a famous one called "Your Show of Shows." He became known for his quick wit and hilarious ideas. In 1968, he made a movie called "The Producers," which was a big hit and won an Oscar. This movie was so funny that it later became a popular musical on Broadway.

Mel Brooks made many other funny movies like "Blazing Saddles," "Young Frankenstein," and "Spaceballs." These films are famous for their silly jokes and funny characters. Mel also created a funny TV show called "Get Smart" about a clumsy secret agent.

Even though Mel is now very old, many people still love watching his movies and laughing at his jokes. He showed that laughter is important and that being funny can bring a lot of joy to the world.

1. When was Mel Brooks born?
2. What was the name of the famous TV show Mel worked on after the war?
3. Name two movies made by Mel Brooks.
4. Why do you think people still enjoy Mel Brooks' movies today?
5. How did Mel Brooks' childhood dreams influence his career?

Symbols and Traditions

Hi everyone! My name is Lucy, and I am 8 years old. I just got back from a super fun trip to New York City! It was my first time there, and it was amazing. My parents told me that a lot of famous people are from New York, like Mel Brooks. He made really funny movies and shows.

We visited a place called the "Producers Theatre." It's super famous because of Mel Brooks. He made a funny show called "The Producers," and they did it at this theatre. The theatre was so big and had lots of lights. I felt like I was in a movie!

We also went to Times Square, which is really close to the Producers Theatre. It was so bright and busy, with so many people and giant screens everywhere. I even saw a big poster for a Mel Brooks movie. It was so cool to be where someone so funny and famous worked.

New York City is so exciting, and I can't wait to go back and see more places. Maybe next time, I'll get to see a real show at the Producers Theatre!

1. Who is the main person Lucy talks about in her blog post?
2. What is the name of the theatre Lucy visited in New York City?
3. Why do you think Lucy found Times Square exciting?
4. How did Lucy feel when she visited the Producers Theatre?
5. If you could visit any place in New York City, where would you go and why?

Profile of Mel Brooks

A Timeline of Mel Brooks to another Festival

After learning all about Mel Brooks, your job is to create a timeline of their life. You should add all the important events in their life but you can be inventive and add some interesting things that people might like to read about. You can make it as simply as you like with pen and paper or you can be very inventive and create a 3D diorama or hanging banner. The sky's the limit - go for it!

Slideshow - Mel Brooks
A full set of teaching plans for Mel Brooksteaching.