City Lights with Lois Reitzes

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"City Lights" explores the creative fabric of Atlanta - our expressive, diverse, influential city. WABE host Lois Reitzes covers pop culture, music, theater, dance, visual arts, food and more.

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    • Jul 17, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 51m AVG DURATION
    • 1,214 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from City Lights with Lois Reitzes

    ✦ The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever ✦ Evan Stepp & The Piners ✦ “A Place to Play” ✦ The history of SciTrek ✦ How Do You Atlanta ✦ Twilight actors Kellan Lutz and Jackson Rathbone

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 51:30


    ✦ The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever is dancing into its 10th year in Atlanta on Saturday, July 26, in Candler Park. City Lights Collective member, Chantelle Rytter, has more on this odd Atlanta tradition that brings Kate Bush and Emily Brontë fans together in a public dance. ✦ Today marks the 5th anniversary of Congressman John Lewis' death. Lewis dedicated his life to advancing the cause of freedom and equality in America and was a towering figure in our country's struggle for civil rights. He inspired countless people, including the band members of the Cabbagetown band, Evan Stepp & The Piners. They recently released a single titled "Good Trouble," and Evan joined us recently to share the story behind the song. ✦ The West End's Portrait Coffee is hosting an event this weekend called "A Place to Play," and City Lights Collective co-host Jon Goode recently sat down with co-founder Marcus Hollinger to learn why play is not a game. ✦ Today, we trace the history of one of Atlanta's most nostalgic institutions: the Science & Technology Museum of Atlanta, or SciTrek. From its grassroots beginnings to becoming a downtown sensation, SciTrek brought science to life for a generation. City Lights Collective member, podcaster, and self-proclaimed history nerd Victoria Lemos recently traced SciTrek's journey through civic politics, fundraising highs and lows, and the love Atlantans still have for the museum today. If you grew up here (or wish you had), this nostalgic deep dive is for you. ✦ You know as well as we do that there is always a plethora of things to do in Atlanta, and we have earned the title of "The Cultural Capital of the South." Mike Jordan, senior editor at the AJC, and Sammie Purcell, associate editor at Rough Draft Atlanta, know this well too. They join us weekly to share a few of their picks for your weekend entertainment. ✦ ATL Comic Convention is this weekend, and a couple of the stars from the hit saga "Twilight" will be in town to participate. WABE arts reporter Summer Evans spoke with two of the vampires—actors Kellan Lutz and Jackson Rathbone, or for you fangs out there, that would be Jasper Hale and Emmett Cullen, ahead of their appearance at the Georgia World Congress Center. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    ✦ The Hambidge Center ✦ Atlanta Halal Food Festival ✦ Sketchy Business ATL ✦ Sounds Like ATL: Uriel UMC ✦ “Technoterria” ✦ Kosmo's Vinyl of the Week ✦ Arts ATL cultural events highlights ✦

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 50:59


    ✦ It's hard to believe that just a two-hour drive north of Atlanta, just past the end of 985 on Highway 441, brings you to a place where art, nature, and history converge in the most beautiful ways. City Lights Collective Member Zachary Brown recently hit the highway to learn more about the Hambidge Center. ✦ Atlanta's first-ever Halal Food Festival is coming to Atlantic Station on Saturday. Mouthwatering food such as tandoori chicken, shawarma sandwiches, kebabs, and gyros is just some of the cuisines being served by the over 80 vendors. ✦ What do you get when you mix sketch comedy, improv, and Georgia-grown talent with a dash of storytelling? That would be Sketchy Business ATL, a live showcase from Trilith Institute, the non-profit part of Trilith production studios. City Lights Collective producer Josh Thane sat down with event host Christian Noel alongside Trilith Institutes co-founder Jeffrey Stepakoff to find out more. ✦ WABE's Sounds Like ATL documentary series dives into the heart of Atlanta's music scene. Each week, it spotlights a local artist, sharing their creative process and a few live performances. You can catch new episodes every Wednesday on the YouTube channel, @WABE ATL. Today, we preview the recent episode with Uriel UMC. ✦ What will the world look like 100 years from now? This question about the future inspired artist T.W. Pilar and creative technologist Ivan Reyes to construct the exhibition "Technoterria," an immersive exhibit currently on view at the Georgia Tech Library. ✦ Visual artist and music enthusiast Kosmo Vinyl bought his first LP when he was nine. He spent the next several decades immersed in music and began his professional career at London's pioneering indie label, "Stiff Records." In 1979, Kosmo started working exclusively with "The Clash" and stayed by their side until the punk icons disbanded in 1986. Over the years, Kosmo's record collection became legendary. In 2014, he began posting about his favorite releases on social media for his series, "Kosmo's Vinyl of the Week," and today, he shares the history of Tom Waits' song, "Jockey Full of Bourbon." ✦ City Lights Collective member Shane Harrison spends his days at Arts ATL looking for cultural events to share with readers. He joins us weekly to share highlights, and today, his mix includes a Plazadrome event with former TCM 
Underground host and film historian Millie De Chirico, and a daytime dance party hosted by drag superstar Lady Bunny.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Name that Feeling ✦ Mike Schacht Exhibition ✦ Maurice Bernard ✦ Faith Ringgold Exhibition ✦ Municipal Support for the Arts Grants ✦ Busking in Atlanta

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 50:53


    ✦ Can you name a feeling? Dashill Smith and the musicians and vocalists that join him at TenATL certainly think so. City Lights Collective co-host Jon Goode recently went to visit TenATL in East Atlanta to learn more. ✦ In honor of MLB All-Star Week, Truist Park isn’t the only place in Cobb County to see baseball this summer. A new exhibition at the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art features the work of artist Mike Schacht—a prolific painter of baseball legends. ✦ Known to soap opera fans as the hold no prisoners mob by Sonny Corinthos on General Hospital, actor Maurice Bernard has earned several daytime Emmy awards and the attention of millions of fans. However, in recent years, he has stepped into the role of a lifetime: mental health advocate. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Bernard has used several platforms, including his podcast, State of Mind, to raise awareness about living with mental illness. He'll share his candid experiences at the Punchline on July 24th with his one-man show, Maurice Bernard: Live on Stage. ✦ Artist, illustrator and educator Faith Ringgold showed us our world through the eyes of young children in every medium you can think of –books, paintings, drawings, sculptures, even quilts. Trained and extensively honored in the fine art and academic circles of New York City, Faith Ringgold nevertheless focused her work on the children who remained her lifelong muse, working as an art teacher in New York City public schools for decades. Now, the High Museum is presenting the most comprehensive exhibition to date of Faith Ringgold’s art from her children’s books, including never-before-seen pieces. ✦ Municipal Support for the Arts ✦ They play on street corners, beneath overpasses, and in MARTA stations — creating the soundtracks of Atlanta’s daily hustle. But who are these street performers, and what drives them? WABE arts reporter Summer Evans explores the city’s vibrant busking scene and learns how it compares to other musical cities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    World Listening Day ✦ The Happy Black Parent 4th annual Children's Book Festival ✦ Landmarks: The World of R. Land ✦ GULCH visual arts calendar ✦ Sounds Like ATL: Anna Kramer and Easy Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 49:38


    ✦ World Listening Day, coming up on July 18th, celebrates the simple yet profound act of listening. As we tune in to the world around us, more of us are also experiencing our favorite stories through sound. City Lights Collective member and "Bookmarked" contributor Alison Law recently explored the growing popularity of audiobooks and what's next for this booming industry. ✦ The Happy Black Parent 4th annual Children's Book Festival is coming to Pittsburg Yards on Saturday. WABE arts reporter Summer Evans has more. ✦ After over three decades on Atlanta walls, streets, stickers, wheatpastes, and flyers, the iconic art of R. Land is now on view at Atlanta Contemporary through September 7th. His work, like "Pray for ATL" and "Loss Cat," has previously been preserved for posterity at the Atlanta History Center and the Georgia State Capitol. Still, those pieces only represent a fraction of his artistic career. City Light Collective co-host Kim Drobes recently caught up with Land to discuss his first-ever retrospective solo exhibition, "Landmarks: The World of R. Land." ✦ City Lights Collective members Jasmine Hentschel and EC Flamming, the creatives behind Atlanta's visual art print magazine, "GULCH", want you to get out and engage with the city's art scene. Each week, they spotlight five standout happenings, and today their mix includes: an outdoor film screening on the Beltline by Off the Wall, art in three dimensions at Kai Lin's group show opening, and discussions about fine art curation on Edgewood Avenue with the Obsidian Collective. ✦ WABE's 'Sounds Like ATL' documentary series delves into the heart of Atlanta's music scene. Each week, it spotlights a local artist, sharing their creative process and a few live performances. You can catch new episodes every Wednesday on the YouTube channel, @WABE ATL. Today, we preview their latest episode with the band Anna Kramer and Easy Now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    ✦ Sounds Like ATL: E'lanah ✦ The High Museum of Art's new fashion track ✦ The Georgia Film Academy ✦ The Heart of Atlanta Motel ✦ The Pancakes and Booze Art Show ✦ Old Car City USA

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 50:14


    ✦ WABE's "Sounds Like ATL" music documentary series explores Atlanta's renowned music scene. Each episode spotlights a local Atlanta musician, allowing viewers to witness their creative process while they perform a couple of songs. The weekly segments are released on our YouTube channel, @WABE ATL, and we share a preview of their recent episode, spotlighting singer and songwriter E'lanah. ✦ Atlanta fashion icon and philanthropist Lauren Amos recently gifted millions to the High Museum of Art to fund a new fashion-focused initiative that will bring a dedicated curator, cutting-edge exhibitions, and public programming and events to Atlanta. City Lights Collective member Jasmine Hentschel recently caught up with Amos to learn more. ✦ WABE's Kenny Murray has the story behind the Georgia Film Academy's recent announcement that it is partnering with one of metro Atlanta's most prominent movie studios. The aim is to provide education and workforce training to a new generation of professionals in the film and television industry. ✦ In the spring of 1955, the Heart of Atlanta Motel was built in downtown Atlanta, a flashy monument to mid-century hospitality. However, by the 1960s, it had become a civil rights battleground. A place where John Lewis was arrested, where hundreds protested, and where a segregationist attorney named Moreton Rolleston Jr. took his rage all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. City Lights Collective member, podcaster, and self-proclaimed history nerd Victoria Lemos recently traced the rise and fall of the Heart of Atlanta Motel, as well as the jaw-dropping twist involving Tyler Perry that emerged decades later. ✦ When you hear pancakes, booze, and art, what comes to mind? How about a festival combining this unlikely trio into a unique art experience? The Pancakes and Booze Art Show is a traveling festival coming to Underground Atlanta on July 19th. City Lights Collective producer Josh Thane recently spoke with festival organizer Justin Allen and Lyle Baldes, special events coordinator for Underground Atlanta, to find out more about this culinary culture mashup. ✦ Did you know that the last car Elvis Presley ever purchased is permanently located 50 miles northwest of Atlanta? The 1977 Cadillac Seville sits in an eclectic museum known as Old Car City USA. WABE Arts Reporter Summer Evans visited the rural town of White, Georgia, to explore how this 32-acre American car junkyard intersects with nature and art.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The History of Ice Cream in Atlanta ✦ Joe Alterman ✦ Arts ATL cultural events highlights ✦ Kosmo's Vinyl of the Week ✦ The Book Bird

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 50:54


    ✦ Summertime is officially upon us, and there’s nothing better to help cool you off on hot Atlanta days than ice cream. City Lights Collective food contributors Akila McConnel and Chef Asata Reid know this well, and they’re taking us back to 1870 to learn the history of ice cream in our city. ✦ Praised by jazz legends Ramsey Lewis and Les McCann, Atlanta jazz pianist Joe Alterman has never been a gatekeeper. He knows that jazz is for everyone, and it’s not rocket science – in the words of Duke Ellington, “If it sounds good, it is good.” Now, Joe Alterman is lending his voice, wisdom, and impeccable taste to WABE listeners with a brand-new radio show, “The Upside of Jazz,” with the first episode airing July 12th at 7pm. He’ll also be performing live at Eddie’s Attic on July 10th. ✦ City Lights Collective member Shane Harrison spends his days at Arts ATL looking for cultural events to share with readers. He joins us weekly to share highlights, and today, his mix includes things to do even if you’re not one of the three hundred thousand Atlantans heading to Mercedes-Benz Stadium for Beyoncé’s four-night stand. ✦ Visual artist and music enthusiast Kosmo Vinyl bought his first LP when he was nine. He spent the next several decades immersed in music and began his professional career at London’s pioneering indie label, "Stiff Records." In 1979 Kosmo started working exclusively with "The Clash" and stayed by their side until the punk icons disbanded in 1986. Over the years, Kosmo's record collection became legendary, and in 2014, he began posting about his favorite releases on social media for his series, "Kosmo's Vinyl of the Week," and he joins us weekly to share the stories behind the records he treasures. This week he shares the history behind Mongo Santamaria’s version of “Fever.” ✦ City Lights Collective co-host Jon Goode tells us about his recent visit to The Book Bird, an Avondale Estates nook, that sales physical books, and closes down so that you can open up. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    High Bias Listening Sessions ✦ Lost in the Letters ✦ K Michelle Dubois ✦ Luenell ✦ The Beverage Beat

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 51:45


    ✦ When City Lights Collective co-host Jon Goode was told that High Bias is a good thing, he wasn't entirely sure what that meant. So, he decided to go to Block and Drum on a Wednesday night to find out for himself. Created by STLNDRMS, High Bias is a deep listening experience. Each week, they explore the highest level of music curation in a room designed for true fidelity. A fully treated space, an uncompromising sound system, and a focused audience. No distractions, just music presented with intention. ✦ WABE arts reporter Summer Evans brings us a story about the Atlanta creative writing organization “Lost in the Letters,” which recently announced they are opening a studio in Candler Park. What began in 2012 as a quarterly reading and workshop series, has become the annual Letters Festival, which brings together literary enthusiasts for workshops, nightly readings, and live events. Now, the organization has found a permanent space to bring accessible programs and resources to people seeking creative writing opportunities. ✦ Songwriter, producer, and studio artist K Michelle Dubois has been making music in Atlanta for over three decades, most recently as a solo act but previously with bands such as Ultrababyfat and Luigi. Dubois’s newest album, “Infinity Sandwich,” drops this Friday, and she’ll celebrate with a release party at the EARL on Saturday. City Lights Collective co-host Kim Drobes recently caught up with Dubois to discuss the new album, her creative process, and how she helped us launch The City Lights Collective with a bang. Did we mention Dubois wrote our new theme music? ✦ Luenell, an entertainment veteran known to her fans as "The Original Bad Girl of Comedy," has been making audiences laugh for nearly three decades with her appearances onstage, as well as in TV shows like "Hacks," and the upcoming Tracey Morgan sitcom, "Crutch." Luenell performs at City Winery August 1st through 3rd, and she recently caught up with WABE reporter Kenny Murray to discuss her sharp wit, high tone, and long nails. ✦ Atlanta’s vibrant world of cocktails and zero proof beverages thrives in our bars and restaurants as well as our local distilleries and non-alcoholic bottle shops. Few may know this world better than Beth McKibben, editor in chief and dining editor at Rough Draft Atlanta. Beth’s expertise is invaluable as she continually explores our city’s elevated beverage programs and examines the latest trends in mixology. She joins The City Lights Collective monthly for “The Beverage Beat” and this month, McKibben embraces summertime sipping wines and shares the history of the ever-popular pink drink, Rose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Atlanta Contra Dance ✦ Latinas in Media Atlanta ✦ Lavender Performing Arts Festival ✦ GULCH visual arts calendar

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 51:22


    ✦ If you go to the Decatur Recreation Center on a Friday evening, you’ll see about 75 people dancing to a live fiddle band, and they look like the happiest people in town. City Lights Collective member Gillian Anne Renault learns more about Atlanta Contra Dance. ✦ Latinas in Media Atlanta, also known as LIMA, creates opportunities for Latine artists to tell untold stories from the Latin diaspora. Founded in 2017, the organization provides networking opportunities for Latine film, theater, and television professionals. Viviana Chavez and Denise Santos are the two women behind LIMA, and City Lights collective member Kelundra Smith recently spoke with them to learn more about their ethos and their mission. ✦ Meet our co-host, Emmy-nominated writer, author and poet Jon Goode! He is no stranger to a microphone; he hosts many events around town and performs regularly nationwide for The Moth. But what else should we know about Jon? WABE Arts Reporter Summer Evans sits down with Goode to learn more about his background. ✦ The Lavender Performing Arts Festival from Out Front Theater Company returns this month with a new theme: “Celebrate Every Letter.” With a lineup spanning theater, music, drag, AND performance art, the festival is more than a showcase—it’s THE stage for Southern queer voices to tell their stories. City Lights Collective producer Josh Thane recently spoke with festival Organizer Ty Autry and festival contributor Hannah Marie Smith to find out more. ✦ City Lights Collective members Jasmine Hentschel and EC Flamming, the creatives behind Atlanta’s visual art print magazine, GULCH, want you to get out and engage with the city’s art scene. Each week they spotlight five standout happenings, and today their mix includes: Gallery strolling through Castleberry Hill, mural installation pieces at Cat Eye Creative Downtown, and a solo show opening at Hawkins HQ.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Coming July 7: The City Lights Collective

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 1:30


    For over a decade, Lois Reitzes made City Lights a welcoming home for Atlanta’s artists. Now, we’re opening the doors even wider and carrying on her legacy with a chorus of voices. Welcome to The City Lights Collective, WABE’s new weekday show where you’ll discover the best of what Atlanta’s arts and culture scene has to offer. You’ll hear short stories, rich voices, and innovative ideas, presented by a team of local contributors. Join co-hosts Kim Drobes and Jon Goode as they connect you to the pulse of Atlanta’s creative world – exploring everything from music and theater to spoken word, food, film, festivals, and more. Starting on July 7, listen to The City Lights Collective on WABE 90.1, Mondays through Thursdays at 1-2 p.m. You can also catch the rebroadcast at its new time, 9-10 p.m. If you already follow the City Lights podcast, you’ll automatically start seeing new episodes of The City Lights Collective beginning July 7, available wherever you listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Lois Bids a Fond Farewell to "City Lights"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 57:07


    After more than 45 years at WABE, Lois Reitzes hosts her final episode of City Lights ahead of her retirement. In this grand finale, Lois is joined by her producers and very special guests, as they share heartfelt memories and celebrate her legacy as Atlanta's foremost champion of Arts and Culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Lois Reitzes Leader of the Arts Award: Chris Escobar / City Lights Cinema: “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”/ Susan Booth

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 52:26


    Lois presents the inaugural “Lois Reitzes Leader of the Arts Award.” Plus, Lois’s conversation with film scholar Eddy Von Mueller, recorded live at the Tara Theater this past Sunday, and Susan Booth, Artistic Director of the Goodman Theater in Chicago and former Alliance Theater Artistic Director, joins Lois for a final interview ahead of Lois’s retirement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Indigo Girls live at WABE

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 49:57


    The saying 'never meet your heroes' does not apply to the Indigo Girls. Amy Ray and Emily Sailers will not disappoint, for they are as kind as they are talented. Last week, they left for a significant, multi-city tour that will run through the fall, yet they took the time to come to the WABE studio and record an interview with Lois to air during her final days at WABE before her retirement. This intimate conversation was recorded as part of Lois's last week series, in which she speaks to some of her past favorite guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Danielle Deadwyler / Dr. Scott Stewart

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 51:08


    Atlanta-born actor Danielle Deadwyler joins me to discuss her many projects, past, present, and future. Additionally, Dr. Scott Stewart and Lois reflect on his many years as a contributor and collaborator.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    King of Pops turns 15 / “The Dark Lady”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025 49:58


    The King of Pops is turning 15, and CEO and co-founder Steve Carse discusses his new book, “Work Is Fun: Seven Ways a Successful Ice Pop Company Makes Work Meaningful and How You Can Too.” Plus, playwright Jessica B. Hill and director Alexis Kulani Woodard detail “The Dark Lady,” which is on stage at Synchronicity Theatre now through June 29th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Sir Donald Runnicles- ASO 50 / Colin Mochrie + Kevin Gillese

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 50:40


    Sir Donald Runnicles, former principal guest conductor of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, helps us celebrate 50 years of ASO broadcasts on WABE. Plus, comedian and improv artist Colin Mochrie, along with Kevin Gillese, Atlanta-based comic and producer, discuss Mochrie’s new live show – coming to Variety Playhouse on June 20.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    aso colin mochrie wabe atlanta symphony orchestra mochrie variety playhouse donald runnicles kevin gillese
    Richard Kind / “Steele Roots” / Atlanta Contemporary's “Art Party”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 50:44


    Actor Richard Kind stops by ahead of his upcoming July 19 performance at Symphony Hall, “How Not to Be Famous: A Conversation with Richard Kind.” Plus, librettist Selda Sahin, and the Atlanta Opera director of community engagement and education, Jessica Kiger discuss “Steele Roots” which makes its world premiere at the Atlanta Opera on June 20, followed by an encore performance June 22 at the Ray Charles Performing Arts Center at Morehouse College. And Floyd Hall, the Executive Director of Atlanta Contemporary, discusses their upcoming annual “Art Party” on June 21.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    “Works in Progress: An Honest Look at Fatherhood” / Lisa Ann Walter

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 51:47


    Artist EuGene V. Byrd III discusses his Beltline West End Trail mural, “Works in Progress: An Honest Look at Fatherhood.” Plus, comedian, writer, and actor Lisa Ann Walter joins us ahead of her standup show at Helium Comedy Club on June 21.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Ali Siddiq / Kosmo Vinyl / Farewell Favorite

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2025 52:05


    Comedian Ali Siddiq joins us ahead of his Atlanta performance at the Fox Theatre on June 13. Plus, Kosmo Vinyl shares the story of Gill-Scott Heron’s version of “Me and the Devil,” and we listen back to Lois’s 2023 conversation with Metropolitan Museum of Art president Daniel H. Weiss about his book, “Why the Museum Matters.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Atlanta Symphony Orchestra acting principal cellist Daniel Laufer / Rick Steves

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 52:01


    Atlanta Symphony Orchestra acting principal cellist Daniel Laufer joins Lois to celebrate 50 years of ASO broadcasts on WABE. Plus, travel expert Rick Steves stops by with tips on visiting lesser-traveled European countries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Mark Kendall reflects on Richard Pryor / 50 years of Art Papers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 52:16


    A new box Richard Pryor box set is out now on Rhino Records, and comedian and “What’s Good Atlanta” co-host Mark Kendall reflects on the icon’s legacy. Plus, Sarah Higgins, the executive and artistic director of Art Papers, discusses the decision to sunset the publication after 50 years, and we revisit Lois’s 2018 conversation with Atlanta playwright Pearl Cleage as part of our “Farewell Favorites” series.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Copy of Copy of “Young John Lewis”/ “The Swans of Harlem”/ Farewell Favorite: “Native Guard”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 16:16


    “Young John Lewis” makes its world premiere at Theatrical Outfit. The hip-hop musical was written by Psalmayene 24 and composed by Eugene H. Russell IV. “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes speaks with both of them about this riveting new play. Additionally, we revisit Reitzes’ conversation with the author of “The Swans of Harlem” and a Black ballerina featured in the book. As part of the "City Lights" series of "Farewell Favorites," we listen back to Lois's 2018 interview regarding Alliance Theatre’s stage adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning poetry book, “Native Guard.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Copy of “Young John Lewis”/ “The Swans of Harlem”/ Farewell Favorite: “Native Guard”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 51:55


    “Young John Lewis” makes its world premiere at Theatrical Outfit. The hip-hop musical was written by Psalmayene 24 and composed by Eugene H. Russell IV. “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes speaks with both of them about this riveting new play. Additionally, we revisit Reitzes’ conversation with the author of “The Swans of Harlem” and a Black ballerina featured in the book. As part of the "City Lights" series of "Farewell Favorites," we listen back to Lois's 2018 interview regarding Alliance Theatre’s stage adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning poetry book, “Native Guard.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Atlanta Opera's “Semele/Speaking of Music's Shock Tea and HDYA/Farewell Favorite: Mary Schmidt Campbell on Romare Bearden

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 52:27


    Atlanta Opera’s artistic director, Tomer Zvulun, sits down with “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes to discuss the rare gem of Baroque opera, George Frideric Handel’s “Semele,” which will be on stage June 7, 10, 13, and 15. Plus, we spotlight the Atlanta band Shock Tea in our series “Speaking of Music.” And we revisit another “Farewell Favorite” conversation between Lois and former Spelman president, Mary Schmidth Campbell. They discuss her 2018 book “An American Odyssey: The Life and Work of Romare Bearden.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    "Accentuate the Positive”/Music in Media: Summer Blockbusters/David Sedaris: Happy Go Lucky

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 51:45


    "Accentuate the Positive: The Music of Arlen and Mercer” is a concert-cabaret show premiering at The Breman this Sunday. Flying Carpet Theatre founder Adam Koplan and executive director of The Breman, Leslie Gordon discuss the timeless classics and melodies Johnny Mercer and Harold Arlen wrote throughout their career. Plus, WABE music contributor Dr. Scott Stewart looks at the latest summer blockbuster soundtracks in “Music in Media.” And we listen back to one of Lois’ “Farewell Favorite” segments with humorist and author David Sedaris discussing his book, “Happy Go Lucky."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    “Young John Lewis”/ “The Swans of Harlem”/ Farewell Favorite: “Native Guard”

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 51:55


    “Young John Lewis” makes its world premiere at Theatrical Outfit. The hip-hop musical was written by Psalmayene 24 and composed by Eugene H. Russell IV. “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes speaks with both of them about this riveting new play. Additionally, we revisit Reitzes’ conversation with the author of “The Swans of Harlem” and a Black ballerina featured in the book. As part of the "City Lights" series of "Farewell Favorites," we listen back to Lois's 2018 interview regarding Alliance Theatre’s stage adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning poetry book, “Native Guard.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Classical Remix Music Festival / Farewell Favorite: Ethan Hawke

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 51:49


    Alice Hong, co-founder of the new Classical Remix Music Festival, joins us. The festival kicks off with three nights of music on June 8 at Leafmore Creek Park Club. On June 22, the festival will be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, and the event on June 27 will take place at the Historic Dekalb Courthouse. Plus, in "Wildcat," the 2023 movie about the author Flannery O'Connor, we hear the question, "If imagination impacts reality, isn't faith where those rivers meet?" Co-written and directed by Ethan Hawke, the movie stars his daughter, Maya Hawke, and explores O'Connor's intellect and the role of faith in her life. As part of the "City Lights" series of "Farewell Favorites," we listen back to Lois's 2023 conversation with Ethan Hawk.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Podcast Exclusive: Lois Reitzes reflects on her career at WABE

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 15:37


    When City Lights host Lois Reitzes announced her retirement from daily hosting earlier this year, she sat down with WABE's All Things Considered host Jim Burress to reflect on her broadcasting career. In this special edition of the City Lights podcast, we hear an extended version of their conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Béla Fleck / The Renaissance Orchestra

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 52:02


    Virtuoso banjoist Béla Fleck discusses his upcoming performance with the ASO of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.” The show takes place at Atlanta Symphony Hall on June 11. Plus, The Renaissance Orchestra takes the spotlight for our series, “Speaking of Music.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Reminiscing with Valerie Jackson/Kosmo Vinyl/Farewell Favorite: Emily Saliers

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 51:03


    Former First Lady of Atlanta Valerie Jackson reminisces about her time as a WABE host and shares some highlights from Mayor Maynard Jackson’s career. Plus, we hear from music enthusiast Kosmo Vinyl for “Kosmo’s Vinyl of the Week.” We also listen to Lois Reitzes’ conversation with Indigo Girls’ Emily Saliers as part of her “Farewell Favorites.” They discuss the Indigo Girls’ documentary “It’s Only Life After All.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Delta Flight Museum reopens/The Beverage Beat: Margaritas/Farewell Favorite: Henry Winkler

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 50:29


    The Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta is reopening after recent renovations, unveiling new art, exhibitions and interactive experiences for its big centennial. It includes an interactive mural designed by artist and SCAD MFA student Jennifer Wee. “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes spoke with Wee and Nina Thomas, Delta Flight Museum director of exhibits and public programs. Plus, we hear from Rough Draft Atlanta’s editor in chief, Beth McKibben, for this month’s “Beverage Beat” on margaritas. And we kick off “Lois’ Farewell Favorites” with award-winning actor, producer and author Henry Winkler.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    “Broadway Sideways” / NEA Grant Recalls

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 52:09


    Jason Wynn, tenor section leader for the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus, discusses the new Voices of Note concert showcase, “Broadway Sideways.” Plus, we’ll explain why Atlanta art organizations are reeling as the National Endowment for the Arts cancels funding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    “Doubt, A Parable” / The Lois Reitzes Art Fund

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2025 52:03


    Freddie Ashley, artistic director at Actor’s Express details the company’s new production of “Doubt, A Parable.” Plus, WABE CEO Jennifer Dorian discusses the Lois Reitzes Art Fund.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The “American Music Awards” returns after a 2-year hiatus / MomoCon

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 51:36


    Atlanta-based journalist and culture critic Christina Lee previews the “American Music Awards,” which airs on CBS on May 26. Plus, this weekend Atlanta hosts one of the fastest-growing “all ages” anime conventions, MomoCon, and we’ll learn why the event attracts tens of thousands of fans to our city.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Tiny Doors ATL / Raveena / The Atlanta Fringe Festival

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 50:28


    Tiny Doors ATL is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and founder Karen Anderson Singer details her upcoming celebratory guided tours. Plus, we catch up with Reveena ahead of her forthcoming Atlanta show at Center Stage, and we get a preview of the 2025 Atlanta Fringe Festival from festival director Diana Brown and Melissa Simmons, creator of the new play “Witch Cake” and founder of MerryCat Productions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The 2025 Atlanta Jazz Festival / “Speaking of Music” with Arkose

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 50:29


    Camille Russell Love, former director of the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, and Senior Advisor to Mayor Andre Dickens, along with Adriane Jefferson, the new executive director for the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, detail this year’s Atlanta Jazz Festival. Plus, Noah Sills of the band Arkose takes the spotlight for our series, “Speaking of Music.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    “Improv for Couples: Fun Games for You and Your Partner” / SCAD Fashion's 2025 runway show / “Kosmo's Vinyl of the Week”

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 51:51


    Comedians and co-authors Amber Nash and Greg Tavares discuss their new book, "Improv for Couples: Fun Games for You and Your Partner." Plus, we hear about SCAD Fashion's 2025 runway show, and Kosmo Vinyl stops by with the story behind Tennessee Ernie Ford's "Sixteen Tons."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    “Spirit Guides: Fantastical Creatures from the Workshop of Jacobo and María Ángeles” / “Gulch Magazine”

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 51:06


    Ricardo Ángeles, son, collaborator, and curator for the artists Jacobo and María Ángeles, details the sculpture exhibition “Spirit Guides: Fantastical Creatures from the Workshop of Jacobo and María Ángeles,” which is on view at Fernbank Museum through August 3. Plus, Jasmine Hentschel and EC Flamming, the creatives behind “Art Calendar ATL,” and “Gulch” magazine, discuss how they keep their fingers on the pulse of Atlanta’s visual art scene.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    “Alice's Wonderland” and “Enchanted Trees” / “Speaking of Music” with Clejan

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 52:19


    Atlanta Botanical Garden CEO and president Mary Pat Matheson discusses “Alice’s Wonderland” and “Enchanted Trees,” which are on view through September. Plus, trap violinist Clejan takes the spotlight for our series, “Speaking of Music.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Artist Noah James Saunders / No Words ATL

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 51:59


    Wire Sculpture artist Noah James Saunders discusses his new solo exhibition, which is on view at the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art through June 8. Plus, No Words ATL founder Ann Wood and music curator Will Hamilton detail their spring instrumental music festival, which takes place at Wild Heaven Westside on May 10.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    “Millions” / “Music in Media”

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 51:57


    Bob Martin and Adam Guettel, the co-writers of the new musical, “Millions,” discuss the upcoming world premiere performances at the Alliance Theatre from May 9 to June 15. Plus, Dr. Scott Stewart stops by for our series, “Music in Media.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Children's Museum of Atlanta's Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month programming / “ATL Up and Away with Rick Steves”

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 51:57


    Karen Kelly and Keira Quinn from the Children’s Museum of Atlanta discuss the museum’s programming for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Plus, travel expert and PBS host Rick Steves joins us for our series, “ATL Up and Away.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Honey Pierre's “I'm Just Living Some Life, Okay?” / “Anonymous Fragments” and “Call and Response”

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 50:40


    Mixed media artist Honey Pierre discusses her new solo exhibition, “I’m Just Living Some Life, Okay?” The work is on view at Impossible Currencies Studio through May 18th. Plus, curators Ruth Allen and Masud Olufani detail the two new exhibitions on view at the Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University, “Anonymous Fragments” and “Call and Response.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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