A look behind the curtain of the South Bend Civic Theatre. Host Alex Peek will bring you conversations with the vibrant community that makes up your CIVIC theatre.
In today's episode, I have special guest host Aaron Nichols as he interviews Loria Perez and Dekota Smallwood. Loria is the Guest Service Manager at SBCT. She is here to discuss #Enough along with one of her Change Agents Dekota Smallwood.
In today's episode, we talk with Jerry O'Boyle, who is currently directing A Little Night Music which opened last weekend. If you aren't familiar with A Little Night Music, it's a musical by Sondheim about a lawyer with his young bride who he takes to a play starring a former lover. Jerry explains all the twists and turns of the plot during our conversation. Originally from Chicago, Jerry began his theratre involvement in 6th grade when he was cast as “Raymond the stocky stock boy.” While he was not thrilled about that title, he was thrilled when he heard the applause after the performance.
In today's episode, I have Michelle Reynolds. If you have come to the theater, you have most likely been in contact with Michelle. She works in the Box Office at the South Bend Civic and her job title is Director of Smiles and Happiness! Michelle will be celebrating her 5th year anniversary with SBCT when this episode drops, so listen in on how this non-theater gal became one of the most important people at the theater. From Alex:“Michelle is without a doubt my most requested guest and it took a while to get her one! I'm not joking, since my first episode with Aaron and other SBCT employees, her name has been dropped well over a dozen times to be a future guest.”
In today's episode, I have Kirsten Campbell. Kirsten is a long-time volunteer and current part-time employee under the Children's Education program at South Bend Civic. We discuss how she became a part of SBCT via her kids, what she has volunteered for over the years and her “tragic” history of trying to be on stage for a show! She is also a fellow Band Geek!
In today's episode, I have Johnny Yoder. This week is another 'Behind the Scenes' episode. Let's just say COVID is making this really hard! With cancelations, postponements, and sickness, it is making it difficult to find and keep guests. So I wanted to take the opportunity to highlight another episode I recorded in preparation for Civic Stories. "Johnny's story is a good tale for many young actors to hear. He had a plan, and that plan changed (a few times!). But he kept moving forward, and while his life's original plan didn't happen, he has found a new one that is bringing him much happiness." - Alex
In today's episode, I have my wife, Lindsey, on! As you know, when she is on, I wasn't able to get a guest; listen in to find out why. Today, we discuss the history of the Tony Awards. Listen in to find out its origins, where Tony's name comes from, and the Bests and Mosts from the Tonys.
To understand the title, you'll have to listen in! But know, since the CIVIC is closed (for the holidays) and all are on vacation, this was recorded a few weeks ago, so that may give a little insight on the title. In today's episode, I have on Executive Director Aaron Nichols. It is that time of year where Aaron and I wrap up 2021 and let everyone know what's in store for 2022!
In today's episode, I take you backstage to the Green Room at SBCT to hear from the cast of ‘A Christmas Carol.' This was before a show performance where I grabbed as many people as I could for short interviews to talk about their time with SBCT. They shared their experiences with A Christmas Carol and many fond Christmas memories. A good time was had by all!
In today's episode, I have returning guest Jeremy Phillips. I wanted to catch up with Jeremy and see how his first few months at the theater have been. After catching up, the conversation went to talking about his role as the Volunteer Coordinator. We both discuss the importance of volunteers at the theater and the large role they play to make sure the theater keeps moving forward. To learn more about how to volunteer at SBCT you can email Jeremy at ‘jeremy@sbct.org' to be added to the volunteer email list.
In today's episode, I have Aaron Mays. Aaron is the Playwright of SBCT's new adaption of 'A Christmas Carol.' Today's episode goes deep into what everyone coming to see 'A Christmas Carol' can expect. We get into how Aaron was brought on to adapt the Novella into something new for all to see at SBCT. We also get into what inspired his adaptation and what we hope people will get out of the show! I say we because I'm actually involved in this show! And you'll get to hear about my involvement with 'A Christmas Carol'!
In today's episode, I have Caitlin LeVan. Caitlin will be one of our Elsa's for Frozen Jr. Frozen Jr. is Caitlin's first lead role at SBCT and only her second performance with the Theater, her first being The Lion King. In the episode, we get into Frozen Jr. and what that experience has been like. We also touch on her first lead role she performed this past summer as Rizzo in Grease Jr. with Premier Arts!Personal Note from Alex:"Caitlin was the easiest guest to schedule for the podcast because we go to the same church! When I found out she was playing Elsa, I turned to her and said, 'this means you're my guest on the podcast!' She really didn't have a choice in the matter because I could get her Mom to help me make it happen :)"
In today's episode, my wife Lindsey and I regale you with tales of seasonal spookiness! We'll be discussing two of the most well-known haunted theaters in America, The Birdcage Theater in Tombstone, AZ, and The New Amsterdam Theater on Broadway in New York City. So light your pumpkins, pick your poison of choice and join us for some haunted theatrical history.
In today's episode, I have Billie Bennett. Billie will be playing the part of Dr. Frank-n-furter in the upcoming production of The Rocky Horror Picture show. We discussed her experience of auditioning for the show and what it was like performing in Matilda while rehearsing for RHPS all in the same weeks! We also talk about how she got into Theater and how she came to SBCT. “Fun Fact: As you will hear at the beginning of the show, Billie and I did Jesus Christ Superstar. She is my first guest of someone I recently performed with at a production at SBCT!”
In today's episode, I celebrate the One Year Anniversary of Civic Stories! To celebrate I'm doing a "behind the scenes" episode. I have a special guest and it's someone who I interviewed as an "audition" for Aaron to prove that I could actually do this thing! I interviewed my friend Karleen who has a very interesting history and felt that her story should be heard. And as you listen, remember, this is from last year!
In today's episode, I have Ste Clough. Ste is a recent import from England to the South Bend Civic Theater. How you might ask, did he end up here in South Bend?! Listen in and find out! We also discuss his Theater experience, how he got involved in the Theater, and we only dive a little bit into his long resume' which includes a lot! So we are lucky to have someone with his experience coming to SBCT! I also take a moment to ask my dumb American questions because I always like to know what others think about certain things when they immigrate into the States.
In today's episode, I have Joe Roman. Joe has been around the South Bend Civic Theater for over a decade; either seen on stage, backstage or in the house as an usher, he seems to have done it all. As discussed in the episode, Joe was diagnosed with Autism/Aspergers in 2004; however, this was a late in life diagnosis. In the episode, you will hear how Joe has never let this hold him back in the theater or in front of the camera, as he has done a number of films as well.
In today's episode, I have the director for the show ‘Cry it Out.' We start the show off by briefly talking about Deb's life in the theater, starting off in her home state of Wisconsin, then moving to Kansas City, then to New Orleans to complete her education, and then taking a job in New York State. All this before her Spouse took a job in South Bend and was brought to SBCT. We take a deep dive into ‘Cry it Out', including how she became the director of the show, who makes up the cast, and a general look at the show.
In today's episode, I have newly hired Jeremy Phillips. Jeremy is taking on the role of Director of Production at South Bend Civic Theater. We discuss how Jeremy realized early in life that being on stage was not his future in theater but being on the other side of putting on a show, doing Student Directing. From there, he went to college with a focus on Theater Administration, and after college, he was on his way to China for his first gig! After many years of travel and freelance work in multiple theaters all over the world, Jeremy has found his way to a permanent role here at SBCT.
In today's episode, I have South Bend Civic's summer interns Elisabeth and Maya, and we discuss what their summer has been like at SBCT. We talk about their current time at university, their majors, and their ambitions after college. We also touch on the experiences they have been gaining while working at SBCT and what projects they are doing. And just a warning for the listeners, we had a blast recording, so be ready to hear a very giggly episode!
In today's episode, we have Calliee Lorenz. Calliee is the Choreographer for the upcoming show Xanadu. We discuss how everything went down for last year's attempt at performing Xanadu, and then we get into what it has been like for Xanadu 2.0. We also dig into her origins of getting into Dance and how it has something that has always been a passion for her.
In today's episode, we discuss theater's most popular Idioms. Like once already, if you see that I have my wife on as a guest, that means things didn't go as planned with guests for the week. In these circumstances, I bring Lindsey on to discuss a topic. The topic for this show is popular Theater Idioms! Join us as you hear me clumsily read through some definitions and origins of your favorite Theater Idioms.
In today's episode, we have Josh Napierkowski. We talk a little bit about Josh's role at South Bend Civic and what he has been up to lately at the theater, but we mostly discuss the upcoming Spongebob Musical produced by the Youth Program at SBCT. We discuss the show, some of the hurdles that he and the cast have faced, and what he hopes everyone will get out of seeing the show.
In today’s episode, we have Kyle Chamberlin. Like me, for the past 20 plus years, Kyle has been a long-time presence at the South Bend Civic Theater. He has done everything from performing on stage, producing shows at the theater, and was a board member for six years. In our conversation, we discuss many topics, including how he got started in theater, becoming a percussionist, his time at Notre Dame, and his involvement at SBCT.Back Story:“Anyone who has listened to Civic Stories will probably hear me drop Kyle’s name at least once per show. That is due to his presence at the theater, and we have known each other for over 23 years. We met in High School band, and our SBCT volunteerism has grown concurrently over those years, so our paths cross quite a bit at the theater, thus why he is brought up so much! In the episode, we discuss some of our history and only some of the things we have done together over the years.” - Alex Peek
In today’s episode, we have Sean Leyes. Sean may be in his early 30s, but he is also a 20 year plus veteran of Theater, and in today’s episode, we get to hear his 20-year journey of being on the stage. He has performed on almost all the stages in the area, with most happening at SBCT. After building up his acting chops in Michiana, he decided to take his talents to New York and go for it on Broadway. We discuss that recent adventure and how it has been affected by COVID.Alex & Seans Backstory: Alex first met Sean Leyes in December 2016 when performing “In with the New,” a Cabaret Show that Kyle Chamberlain produced. Sean was one of many talented singers who performed that evening. When Alex learned that Sean had moved to NYC to try his hand on Broadway, he hoped there he would be another example of local talent making it. When Alex began this podcast, he started a wish list of guests; Sean was one of them. Luckily, because of COVID-19, Alex got a chance to sit down and talk with Sean, who has been back in the area.
On today’s episode, we have returning guest Grace Lazarz. We catch up with Grace on what she has going on, along with what her future holds. Then we get in-depth with all things Fringe Fest. What it is, its origins for SBCT’s production, and how it was organized. If you want to see the full schedule of performances and locations, please go to https://southbendfringe.com
On today’s episode, we have Marybeth Saunders. I can confidently say that after this conversation, Marybeth has been doing theater her whole life! We get to hear about how her passion for Theater started in Kansas, which then took her to Broadway. But as you will hear, she didn’t stay there or anywhere permanently until making it to South Bend. She also provides a lot of insight on making theater a career for younger actors and we discuss her upcoming performance in the show, BOOM!
On today’s episode, we are joined by CIVIC Construction Manager Bill Loring. In addition to learning about Bill's background, we're also treated to a local history lesson.We discuss Bill’s current life and how he went from repairing bicycles to being an IT Specialist while also being out Construction Manager at SBCT. However, we spend considerable time discussing his high school life which included being a part of the local sketch show Beyond Our Control which aired on WNDU. Bill goes into depth talking about his experience with the show and how it formed his life, but it also taught me about some local history that everyone needs to learn about!
On today’s episode we have Janine Felder-Kahn. Janine will be staring in the upcoming show ‘Copenhagen’. We discuss how Janine started acting and it being a passion for her in High School, but stepping away from it as she studied Law at Notre Dame. But like a lot of people, she ended coming back to theater, with her first show at SBCT being Dracula. We also discuss another passion in life for her: traveling. We exchange travel stories of our various treks across the globe.
On today’s episode we have Richard Baxter. In the past 20 years, Richard has acted and directed many shows at the CIVIC and has become very well known in the CIVIC community. However, Richard did not begin his life in South Bend, but in Casper, Wyoming. Listen as we talk about Richard’s journey from getting his start as a curtain puller in Casper, then acting in Utah, to Theater Director in Colorado and ultimately coming to St Mary’s in South Bend.
As the South Bend Civic Theatre prepares to broadcast the greatest adventure story of all time (The Odyssey streams Feb. 19-28), Hayden Miller joins us to talk about her experience with the CIVIC's youth ensemble.Hayden, who is playing several roles within the production, has been designing and drawing virtual backgrounds for the Zoom-based production to bring the show to you in a new way. In Episode 11 of CIVIC Stories, Hayden and Odyssey Director Grace Lazarz join Host Alex Peek to talk about the upcoming show and how to get involved with the CIVIC as a student.
On today’s episode we have Bill Svelmoe, who is starring in the South Bend Civic Theatre's upcoming production of Vincent. We discuss the show Vincent and what it means to him to be doing this show again. Then we dive into Bill’s past growing up in the Philippines as part of a Missionary family and then his journey into getting into theater. We also talk about what it is like for him to be teaching at St Mary’s during the COVID-era. Bill is also the author of Spirits Eat Ripe Papaya, a novel about a young missionary based in the Phillipines.
Living in COVID times, I was bound to have a guest cancelation — and that time is now. In anticipation of that happening, I knew I wanted to host a show featuring my wife (because she is stuck in the house with me and I can put a microphone in front of her face very easily). In Episode 9 of CIVIC Stories, tune in to hear me and Lindsey discuss RENT. We discuss where the show stands in the history of musical theatre and some factoids about the show.First factoid: RENT was the first and only show that Lindsey played at the South Bend Civic Theatre.
2020 was a hard year for everyone, but the performing arts industry was hit particularly hard. When we let the curtain fall back in March due to COVID-19, we had to reimagine how to continue to create and enrich community without the “live” aspect of theatre.We are happy to report that the South Bend Civic Theatre is entering 2021 with no debt and big plans for the future. We realize not all community theatres or arts organizations can say the same. Thank you, CIVIC family, for sticking with us through a tumultuous 2020 and into a brighter 2021.In Episode 8 of our CIVIC Stories podcast, host Alex Peek talks with Executive Director Aaron Nichols about how the CIVIC responded to the pandemic and what we have planned for 2021.
On today’s episode, host Alex Peek welcomes his first CIVIC couple. Abigail and Jordan were on different acting paths and somehow those paths met at the South Bend Civic Theatre. Hear their stories of before and after marriage and all the in-between. One of the ‘after marriage’ stories is that Jordan is co-owner of the new DTSB restaurant ‘Fatbird’. Listen in as he tells how that came to be!
This may be host Alex Peek's most selfish episode, but it's still worth a listen! In our sixth episode of CIVIC Stories, Alex interviews his former band teacher, Dennis Gable. Dennis, who also performs as a pit musician for the CIVIC, recently retired from teaching band in public schools after 35 years. While he may be done with public school teaching, he hasn’t slowed down. Hear about how Dennis’s journey starting as a 5th grade trumpet player turned into a long-lasting career teaching music to many of us in the community.
Today's guest is CIVIC Production Designer Jeff Barrick. Podcast Host Alex Peek chats with Jeff about his winding career path -- one that started with graphic design and manufacturing factories in Elkhart County to making SBCT his home.
Episode 4 of CIVIC Stories features Leah Tirado. We start the show by discussing Leah’s first experience with South Bend Civic Theatre, which was directing ‘In the Heights’. Then, we go back to the beginning and hear about how she wanted to be a swimmer but ended up in theatre. Leah also pulls back the curtain on her continuing battle with mental illness, particularly Bipolar Disorder, which brought her to the lowest level in her life and her journey back to the stage. Links discussed:https://bigpaybackmusic.com/homehttps://www.iwassunshine.com
On today’s episode we have the ‘volunteer wrangler’ herself, Grace Lazars. Community theatre's life force is driven by volunteers and Grace’s main job with the theatre is to gather volunteers when needed, and SBCT is no different; we depend on volunteers! Anybody who has wanted to be involved with SBCT in some manner has had Grace be their first point of contact. But Grace is also an actor, director and educator at SBCT and we get hear her story of how it all started for her in the 4th Grade. If you would like to volunteer at SBCT please contact Grace at grace@sbct.org.
In today’s episode we get to meet Dee Dee Batteast. We get to find out her ‘full circle’ story with Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, her many college travels to get where she is today and even though she wears many hats living in Chicago, hear her talk about her greatest passion ‘Teaching’. Dee Dee will be directing Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, with auditions happening Oct. 19 and 20, please go to sbct.org to find out more! Links from the Show: https://www.storycatcherstheatre.org
In today’s episode we have the Executive Director of South Bend Civic Theater, Aaron Nichols. We start off by giving an introduction into the Podcast and how it came to be. Then we move into Aaron’s story in which we discuss how he went from acting to running a theatre! In the episode Aaron also lets his heart for the CIVIC really show. Tune in if you want to know how the theatre is handling the COVID-19 pandemic and what’s in store for the theater in 2021.
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