Podcasts about producing artistic director

The Stagecraft podcast is hosted by Jan Simpson. It is a series of interviews with playwrights (and musical book writers) of shows opening on Broadway and off-Broadway. The Wash by Kelundra SmithDirected by Awoye TimpoElizabeth Van Dyke, Producing Artistic Director, New Federal Theatre Friday, May 30, 2025 through Sunday, June read more The post Stagecraft: Kelundra Smith on “The Wash” appeared first on BroadwayRadio.

On this week’s edition of Meet Cortland County X101's Matt Brooks sits with Producing Artistic Director of the Cortland Repertory Theatre, Kerby Thompson. Kerby joins this week to touch on[Read More...] The post Meet the Cortland Repertory Theatre’s 54th Summer Season of Shows! appeared first on X101 Always Classic - WXHC.com.

This podcast puts you inside the mind of the actor to help other actors feel less alone and to educate actors and non-actors alike about the artistic process and expression of acting.Terry Martin served 17 seasons as Producing Artistic Director of the award-winning WaterTower Theatre in Addison, Texas, where he directed or oversaw more than 150 productions. Under his leadership, WTT grew from a small local theatre company to one of the leading regional theatres in Texas. Before moving to Dallas from NYC, in 1992, he worked in theatre, television, and film both as an actor and director. He directed and acted at The Village Theatre Company, Carnegie Hall Studios, and Theatre at St. Marks, as well as television appearances on ABC's One Life to Live and NBC's To Serve and Protect and in the feature film Tin Men.He trained professionally with Sanford Meisner, Fred Kareman, Wynn Handman, Bill Esper, Sally Johnson, and Lehmann Byck. Prior to his move to Dallas, Terry started his own studio in 1990, and he has continued to teach ongoing professional acting classes and workshops in the Sanford Meisner Technique. He holds a BA from the University of Alabama and presently serves as the Head of Fine Arts at Greenhill School in Addison, Texas.His most recent acting performance on screen is in Wayward Kin (2025) where he plays Judge Burgess and on stage as Big Daddy in Cat On A Hot Tin Roof for The Classical Theatre Project (2022) and in The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey at Uptown Players Gay History Month Festival (2018). In addition, he appeared on stage at the Dallas Theater Center in Next Fall (2012) and WTT in All My Sons (2015) and Our Town (2010).  In 2008, Terry won a Dallas Fort Worth Theatre Critics' Forum Award as Best Actor for the play Blackbird.  His other WTT acting credits include The Woman in Black, Dinner with Friends, The Guys, Bash: Latter-day Plays, and The Only Thing Worse You Could Have Told Me… (1998 Leon Rabin Award – Actor in a Play, 1998 Dallas Theater Critics Forum Award). FIND TERRY ONLINE: https://www.terrymartinact.net/Subscribe for more!FOLLOW ANYTOWNTikTok Instagram WEBSITE: https://www.anytownactorslab.com

Meet Sarah Bruner, Producing Artistic Director of the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, and Hannah Read Newbill, Festival Director of Marketing. We had a lively and inspiring conversation about the upcoming season and the immense effort it takes to bring five exceptional professional productions to life, running from May through September at the festival's stunning outdoor amphitheater. This 770-seat, state-of-the-art venue is thoughtfully designed to enhance the natural power of the human voice, while seamlessly blending into the breathtaking landscape that surrounds it—a habitat rich with diverse plant and animal life. The Festival thrives through a meaningful partnership with the Idaho Foundation for Parks and Lands and the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. Its mission reaches beyond entertainment, embracing education and community engagement through the magic of live theater. A proud member of the Shakespeare Theatre Association (STA), the Idaho Shakespeare Festival invites you to be part of a truly unforgettable season beneath the enchanting Idaho skies. Learn more at idahoshakespeare.org — and don't miss your chance to experience this remarkable celebration of art and nature.

Jeremy Wechsler is Theater Wit's Producing Artistic Director. On this episode, Jeremy joins us to discuss his direction of Prayer for the French Republic by Joshua Harmon, co-produced with Northlight Theatre. The play, set in 1944 and 1945, during the Vichy Government's fall, and in 2016 and 2017, delves into the complexities of personal relationships to their Jewish identity and the challenges of navigating cultural expectations. Throughout the episode, Jeremy and I discuss the play's themes of safety, belonging, and individual choices in the face of uncertainty.  Don't miss the Chicago premiere of this powerful play, blending sharp humor and profound drama in a story as timely as it is timeless. Prayer for the French Republic runs through May 18th!BUY TIX HEREFollow Theater Wit here: @theaterwitFollow Northlight Theatre here: @northlightthtr

(Airdate 4/14/25) Ben Guillory is the co-founder of The Robey Theatre Company, he serves as CEO and Producing Artistic Director for the organization. Larry Muhammad is an award-winning playwright and producing director of Kentucky Black Repertory Theatre. On this podcast they speak on these iconic Black voices, explore Black history and the Black Arts movement, and Mr. Muhammad's play "Last Night at Mikell's" with its focus on the friendship between these artistic giants.https://www.therobeytheatrecompany.org/https://www.dominiquediprima.com/

Making her very first appearance on Rick Flynn's podcast is author and teacher HELEN SHEEHY who is the author of two New York Times notable books of the year. "Just Willa is just perfect. It is a vivid, sprawling family chronicle with an indomitable character at its center. Just Willa is destined to be an American classic because of its luminous prose and its sense of adventure."Andre Bishop, Producing Artistic Director, Lincoln Center TheaterPurchase this book at your local bookstore or at Amazon or Barnes and Noble or wherever books are sold.www.HelenSheehy.Org

This Sunday (April 13), Eastside Bowl will turn into a underground disco with the third annual Disco Ball. This event is a benefit for Kindling Arts Festival, their annual summer festival that uplifts local artists. Daniel Jones, Producing Artistic Director of Kindling Arts, describes the event as a fun party with a cocktail hour and immersive performances, with a stage program that features local artists working in dance, theater, music and drag. 

Marti Gobel is a nationally recognized actor, director and teaching artist. Upon graduating from UW-Whitewater in 2008 with a degree in Performance Theatre and Philosophy (with an emphasis in Religious Studies), Ms. Gobel began a rich career in both theatre and television and film. Her need to add to the tapestry of the mid-west professional theatre scene led to the founding of the now defunct UPROOTED theatre. As Producing Artistic Director (from 2009-2015)  worked tirelessly to diversify the arts through her efforts. Ms. Gobel is a current member of both Actors Equity Association and SAG-AFTRA.Selected Stage Credits include: Milwaukee Shakespeare (Henry IV, part 2), Milwaukee Chamber Theatre (Well, Around The World In 80 Days, Broken and Entered, Fires In the Mirror) Renaissance Theaterworks' (NEAT: Milwaukee, Sheboygan and South Africa, The Persians, Crumbs From the Table of Joy, The Violet Hour, Still, Sex With Strangers, The Roommate, Witch and a reading of Tanya Saracho's El Nogular and Gwendolyn Rice's The Griots), First Stage Children's Theatre (The Neverendingstory and readings of Jackie and Me, The Promised Land), The Milwaukee Repertory Theater (Clybourne Park, A Christmas Carol:2012-2014, Yankee Tavern, Trouble In Mind), Forward Theater (In The Next Room, Mr. Burns, Skeleton Crew, Mom, How Did You Meet The Beatles) and UPROOTED theatre (Beauty's Daughter: Milwaukee, Chicago and Memphis, A Streetcar Named Desire, Yellowman, Crumbs From the Table of Joy, *Pink Champagne, Jack and Jill, Hoo Doo Love, Oleanna, I Have Before Me A Remarkable Document Given To Me By A Young Lady From Rwanda, The Philadelphia Story, *Man From Madisonville, The Sunset Limited, Suddenly Last Summer), Next Act Theatre (Perfect Mendacity, No Child, Twilight: Los Angles, The Taming, The Christians), and Theatre Lila (No Child). Marti plays an ongoing role as the Civil Rights suffragist, Ida B. Wells for the Kenosha Civil War Museum in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and is often featured in local and regional commercials and voice-overs. She appeared in the short film, Spare Change, as well as the web-series Gettin' Grown; both directed by the award-winning film director Aaron Greer and Faith Flix's Come Follow Me, Mary, Mother of Jesus and the feature film Game Day produced by Chicago Studio City. National television credits include NBC's Chicago PD in addition to several regional commercials.University Productions include: Airness (Hendrix College), Wine In the Wilderness, Crumbs From the Table of Joy, The Light (Marquette University), Trojan Women (UW-Milwaukee).Marti has served as a lead teacher at First Stage Theatre Academy in Milwaukee as well as a lead teacher and program designer for UPROOTED theatre's education department. Past adjunct professor assignments at Marquette University, UW-Milwaukee and Carthage College. She is a JF Kennedy Center trained Teaching Artist who worked closely with Master Educator, Randy Barron for 6 months developing her residency which is now offered through The Young Auditorium and The Overture Center. She currently serves as Artistc Consultant for Black Arts MKE. Ms. Gobel will serve for a third term as a KCACTF adjudicator for Region III.Ms. Gobel is a Jeff Nominated Director for her work on Is God Is with A Red Orchid Theatre and the recipient of 2024 Black Excellence Award for Outstanding Director.She currently serves as Producing Artistic Director and Education Coordinator for OnWord Theatre in San Diego, CA. *Indicates World Premiere'sWebsite: OnWord TheatreInstagram: Instagram (@OnWordTheatre)Facebook: OnWord Theatre | San Diego CABox Office Email: info@OnWordTheatre.comWant a video experience? Check out our YouTube channel! We're now uploading video episodes!This episode:https://youtu.be/XJnZnBJVkKwGeneral channel:http://www.youtube.com/@intheartscene

Building the Mosaic Dance Theatre Company with Morgiana Celeste Varricchio & Samara Adell Every dance company has its own unique journey and characteristics, from how it was founded to the style of dance it specializes in. Today, we're joined by the Producing Artistic Director and Founder of the Mosaic Dance Theatre Company (MDTC), Morgiana Celeste Varricchio, and the Artistic Director for Dance and Choreographer, Samara Adell. MDTC showcases the vibrant dance and folkloric heritage of the Mediterranean, spanning North Africa, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. Through captivating performances and educational initiatives, MDTC brings to life the region's music, myths, and traditions, preserving and sharing its cultural tapestry. In this conversation, Morgiana and Samara share how they discovered their affinity for Middle Eastern dance, why they felt it wasn't adequately represented in the US, and how they formed the Mosaic Dance Theatre Company. We discuss the many shows they've produced, including their special upcoming 20th-anniversary show, Visions of the Near East, how they manage their creative partnership, and the challenges of running a nonprofit. Tune in to hear the full scope of Morgiana and Samara's beautiful journey, from becoming friends to running a thriving company together! Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to Morgiana Celeste Varricchio and her dance journey. How she became involved with Middle Eastern dance and met Samara Adell. The success of Morgiana's production of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. How Morgiana and Samara founded the Mosaic Dance Theatre Company in 2005. Their mission to ensure Middle Eastern Dance was properly represented in the US. An overview of their productions, including their original show, Caravan to Cairo. Their upcoming production, Visions of the Near East Some background on Samara and how she became interested in dance. Her time working in New York and the extensive global touring she did as a dancer. The inner workings of Samara and Morgiana's creative partnership. How they prepare for, plan, rehearse, and arrange all the different elements of their shows. Standout experiences during their two decades with Mosaic. “We both agreed that Middle Eastern Dance was not represented properly in the professional world of dance. It is a very legitimate dance form, but not looked upon that [way] here in the US. It was our mission, then, to bring this dance to the public.” — Morgiana Celeste Varricchio Morgiana Celeste Varricchio is the Producing Artistic Director and Founder of Mosaic Dance Theater Company.  Samara Adell is Artistic Director for Dance & Choreographer of Mosaic Dance Theater Company. For more on this episode, Morgiana, and Samara: Movers & Shapers: A Dance Podcast For the latest, follow us on Instagram & Facebook Support this podcast with a tax-deductible donation! themovingarchitects.org/support  

What happens when history, activism, and theater collide? The producers of The Return of Benjamin Lay break it down. What happens when a story refuses to be forgotten? The Return of Benjamin Lay isn't just a play—it's a powerful lesson in courage, creativity, and using your voice for change. In this episode of Your Creative Mind, I sit down with the producers of the production coming to The Sheen Center this March to talk about bringing this revolutionary abolitionist's story to the stage. You'll hear how bold storytelling can challenge the status quo, why creative work has the power to shift perspectives, and what you can do to make your own impact. If you're a storyteller, entrepreneur, or changemaker, this episode is for you. And if you can, go see the show at The Sheen Center, March 14 – April 6, 2025—it's one you won't forget. JOSEPH W. RODRIGUEZ is an actor, writer, and Producing Artistic Director of Playhouse Creatures (where he has produced over thirty plays). For PCTC: STILL LIFE (with Ancram Opera House), EXECUTION OF JUSTICE, The Two-Character Play ( 2017 New York/ The Duo Theatre), New Orleans (2018 Southern Rep); Mrs. Packard (with Bridge Rep), One Flea Spare, More Stars Then There Are In Heaven, Hunter/ Gatherers, Charlotte The Destroyer, Love Song, 6xTenn, Closer, The Libertine (The Kirk, Theatre Row), and The Libertine (with Bridge Rep – IRNE Nomination, Best Actor). Other NYC: Buffalo Hair with Jeffrey Wright (The Public Theater); The Normal Heart with Bobby Cannavale (The Duo Theatre); Richard III with Austin Pendleton, Macbeth – title role (New Perspectives); Linnehan's Daughter (Naked Angels); Landscape of the Body, Hurlyburly (T. Schreiber Studios); Innocent Erendira – world premiere with Miriam Colon (Repertorio Espanol). Regional: Hamlet with Mark Rylance, King Lear with F. Murray Abraham (A.R.T.); Iphigenia (The Huntington); Children of the Sun (The Kennedy Center); A Streetcar Named Desire, American Buffalo, Safe Sex, A Christmas Carol (The New Ehrlich Boston); Vieux Carre, Breaking the Code – Best Supporting Actor, Boston Herald (The Triangle Theatre); The Boys Next Door with Lance Reddick (Worcester Forum Theatre). TV/ FILM: Glory, The Opposite of Sex, Desolation Angels, Against the Law, Guiding Light, As the World Turns, Another World, the titular character in Sci-Fi Channel's Cameron Grant. He is a proud member of AEA and SAG-AFTRA.    ARSALAN SATTARI PRODUCTIONS: Since 2012 Arsalan Sattari Productions has commissioned, developed, licensed, and produced shows by world-class artists, to critical acclaim and commercial success, within the London fringe, West End, and festivals. They are interested in new writing, UK and European premieres, historical plays and characters rarely portrayed on stage. They are proud to have built a reputation of producing top acclaimed American playwrights in the UK. Arsalan is an Honorary Associate Producer at the multi-award winning Finborough Theatre, London, and Creative Director and CEO of StageBlock, working with some of the most renowned talents and global institutions to bring performing arts into the wider art market.  Learn more and get tickets. https://playhousecreatures.org/events/the-return-of-benjamin-lay/ https://www.sheencenter.org/events/detail/the-return-of-benjamin-lay   Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series One Minute Movies A Close Shave Career Suicide Diz Wit   Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.   This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It's also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you've been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.   Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |

Tom Ridgely, Producing Artistic Director, St. Louis Shakespeare Festival joins Debbie Monterrey as the organization marks its 25th Anniversary with a partnership with the St Louis Zoo.

Actor, Producing Artistic Director and Co-Founder of The Ebony Repertory Theatre, Wren T. Brown, talks about his new book “The Family Business: Four Generations of One Black Family's Artistic Odyssey,” and the importance of preserving family history when building a generational legacy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.

The Cape Sable seaside sparrow is one of the most endangered birds in the continental United States, numbering only 2,000 or so individuals, all living in the Everglades. Conflicting water management aims in South Florida pitting Big Sugar against the environment is resulting in the state taking drastic measures to pursue survival of the species.In 1960, African American equal rights activists in Tampa followed suit along with those in other cities around the South, staging sit-ins at segregated lunch counters in department stores like Woolworth's. Joining us to discuss this little known aspect of Florida history are Steven Lawson, an historian of the Civil Rights Movement and the former chair of the History Department at USF, and Karla Hartley, Producing Artistic Director of Stageworks Theatre, which will be performing a play based on the sit-ins, "When the Righteous Triumph," March 6-9, 2025, at the Straz Performing Arts Center in Tampa. Our previous episode about oysters featured a documentarian working on a film about oyster bed restoration. That documentary is now available on PBS stations and streaming.Help support "Welcome to Florida" by becoming a $5 a month patron at www.patreon.com/welcometoflorida. Patrons receive exclusive access to our weekly Florida conservation newsletter highlighting the top environmental stories around the state.

In this inspiring episode, Mike sits down with Kristen Coury, CEO and Producing Artistic Director of Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples, Florida, inside its stunning new $72 million theater. Kristen shares her eclectic journey, from working at Disney Theatrical and with Andrew Lloyd Webber to directing a feature film and unexpectedly landing in Naples to build an artistic legacy. They discuss the highs and hurdles of fundraising, the current challenges facing regional theaters, and how spirituality and vision fueled this 20-year dream. An unforgettable conversation with a trailblazing artist-entrepreneur whose sheer resilience offers a lot of lessons.Kristen Coury Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/theladydirects/Gulfshore Playhouse Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/gulfshore.playhouse/www.facebook.com/gulfshoreplayhousehttps://linktr.ee/gulfshore.playhouseGulfshore Playhouse Website:https://www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org/EPISODE #51 of CREATIVE RISKDo the Thing: Co-Working Salon: Over six weeks, Mike and Joshua will lead a group of artists through the messy, exhilarating, and deeply rewarding process of getting a creative project to the next stage - whether a short film, concert, reading, play, or Youtube channel. It's a pressure cooker of accountability and risk-taking designed to help us move our projects forward. Projects at all levels of development are welcome. https://artists-strategy.com/do-the-thing—Thanks for listening!Join our email list for our weekly newsletter with deep insight on our personal artistic journeys: www.artists-strategy.com/signupSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-risk/id1706381310Subscribe on Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5hzvD8HgCjOo1NcA5zBDN4?si=404a2369523a45cbFollow Us on IG: www.instagram.com/creativeriskpod/Follow Us on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@creativeriskpodGet motivated, get inspired, Get RISKY! Join our Patreon for ad-free early access to episodes, exclusive discounts, weekly Q&As, and so much more. Choose the tier that fuels your creative journey and unlock your full potential!JOIN OUR PATREON:https://www.patreon.com/CreativeRiskPodcast— “CREATIVE RISK”, is a new podcast hosted by actors Joshua Morgan and Mike Labbadia of Artist's Strategy where they explore all things art, entrepreneurialism and everything in between. The acting industry is more volatile and competitive than ever before, therefore the artist must evolve in order to take radical ownership over their creative businesses. Each episode, Mike and Joshua will get raw and unfiltered, giving hot takes and cutting edge strategies on how to build a sustainable career in the arts.

Thank you so much for listening to the Bob Harden Show, celebrating over 13 years broadcasting on the internet. On Friday's show, we discuss the election, the transition of power, Biden's “lame duck” session, and the 119th Congress with William Yeatman, Senior Legal Fellow with the Pacific Legal Foundation. We visit with Kristen Coury, Founder and Producing Artistic Director of Gulfshore Playhouse, about the opening of their new Theater and Education Center, and their season of productions and education opportunities. Senior Economist with the Competitive Enterprise Institute Ryan Young and I discuss GDP, unemployment, inflation, and interest rates. We also visit with Professor Larry Bell about the election. We have terrific guests including historian and founder of historycentral.com Marc Schulman, columnist Jon Miltimore, and author Jim McTague. Please access this or past shows at your convenience on my web site, social media platforms or podcast platforms.

Thank you so much for listening to the Bob Harden Show, celebrating over 13 years broadcasting on the internet. On Thursday's show, we visit with Keith Flaugh, Co-Founder and CEO of the Florida Citizens Alliance, about the good news from Tuesday's election and the defeat of the abortion amendment in Florida. Director of Health Policy Studies at Cato Institute Michael Cannon and I discuss public health issues raised by RFK, Jr., including eliminating departments in the FDA. We also visit with the former Mayor of Naples, Bill Barnett. We have terrific guests scheduled for Friday's show including Pacific Legal Foundation's William Yeatman, Founder and Producing Artistic Director of Gulfshore Playhouse Kristen Coury, Senior Economist at the Competitive Enterprise Institute Ryan Young, and author and Professor Larry Bell. Please access this or past shows at your convenience on my web site, social media platforms or podcast platforms.

Vivienne Benesch joins Stephanie and Angela to talk about her career directing, acting and her current experience as a Producing Artistic Director in her eighth full year with PlayMakers Repertory Company in North Carolina after over a decade as the Artistic Director for Chautauqua Theater Company and Conservatory. A proud NYU grad, Vivienne shares about some of her favorite teachers, and her own goals when teaching. To find out more about Vivienne, visit her insta.Original Music by: Yah Supreme (Yahya Jeffries-El)

Thank you so much for listening to the Bob Harden Show, celebrating 13 years broadcasting on the internet. On Friday's show, we get a Capitol Hill update and we discuss the status of Trump litigation with William Yeatman, Senior Legal Fellow with the Pacific Legal Foundation. We visit with Managing Editor of FEE.org Patrick Carroll about the economic impact of artificial intelligence. We visit with the Producing Artistic Director and CEO of Gulfshore Playhouse Kristen Coury about their new Performing Arts and Education Center as well as the upcoming season of productions. We also visit with Professor Larry Bell about the importance of the Elon Musk and Donald Trump interview on “X.” Please join us for Monday's show. We have terrific guests including historian and founder of historycentral.com Marc Schulman, columnist Jon Miltimore, and author Jim McTague. Please access this or past shows at your convenience on my web site, social media platforms or podcast platforms.

My guest for this episode is Chris Dolman. He is the Producing Artistic Director for the Lake Lure Music Festival, an eclectic music festival producing world class music in multiple genres with renowned musicians and bands. Based in Western North Carolina, the Festival's supports the Lake Lure Classical Academy and Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach and their respective missions. Chris started his career working in radio before becoming a professional actor and director based in New York City. Chris and his wife, Cathi now live full time in Lake Lure, North Carolina.This conversation took many interesting turns, as has Chris's career. One big turn in his career was shifting his focus from “what can I get from this?” to “how can I serve?” His perspective shift led him to new opportunities and challenges, many of which we explore in this wide-ranging conversation. We also dove in on authenticity, listening, improvisation and so much more. I hope you enjoy this conversation and please be sure to share it with your friends and colleagues!·      Balancing work and life with a focus on gratitude and intention. (0:02)·      Pivoting from personal ambition to community service through music festival. (5:42)·      Manifesting change through energy and focus. (12:22)·      The transformative power of live music. (19:41)·      The importance of arts in society, including music and theater. (24:14)·      Embracing stage fright and being present in performances. (28:58)·      Embracing imperfection in music and art. (37:08)·      Embracing creative process and avoiding self-criticism. (41:21)·      The importance of generosity in work and life. (46:14)·      Valuing workers and breaking cycle of cogs in organizations. (50:24)·      Finding purpose and making a positive impact in a small community. (55:30)·      Overcoming obstacles for a music festival during the pandemic and its aftermath. (1:01:33)·      COVID-19 challenges in the entertainment industry. (1:07:02)·      How the pandemic has changed people's habits and routines, including their preferences for dining out and attending arts events. (1:10:43)·      Upcoming concerts and sponsorships for a music festival in a small town. (1:14:05)·      Event planning, marketing, and social media. (1:20:22)·      Talk radio, podcasting, and the importance of being a good listener. (1:23:59)·      Improvisation, curiosity, and personal growth. (1:29:09) 

“Oh Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou, Romeo?” Chances are this summer you can find him– along with many other characters from the famed works of Shakespeare– in the idyllic setting of Central Park in old Louisville, where Candy and Ashley recently enjoyed the renowned Kentucky Shakespeare's Free Festival in Central Park.  In this fun episode we first take a brief look at the Bard himself, William Shakespeare. And while Will is widely believed to be the most famous and most celebrated playwright of all time, you just might be surprised at some of the interesting new details that come to light.  Then with the help of Matt Wallace, Kentucky Shakespeare's Producing Artistic Director, and actors Gregory, Justin, and Mollie, we take you behind the scenes of the Shakespeare Festival. You won't want to miss hearing fascinating insights and first-hand stories directly from the performers themselves.   Finally, we share highlights from Ashley and Candy's field trip to see “Comedy of Errors,” including audience reactions from Kara, Dave, Sally, Fin, Wally, and Sylvia.  To go or not to go… there is no question! Head on over to Kentucky Shakespeare's Free Festival in Central Park, right after you give this episode a listen.

Adirondack Theatre Festival's 30th Anniversary season is underway. Multiple Broadway and television veterans are joining local talent for a starry showcase of new work. Miriam Weisfeld is the Adirondack Theatre Festival's Producing Artistic Director.

Arts organizations around Florida are scrambling to make up budget shortfalls after Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed $32 million in cultural and museum grants. The cuts will have an impact on hundreds of theatres, museums, performance groups and other arts organizations large and small. The vetoes are part of nearly $1 billion that DeSantis trimmed from the state budget, which is now a whopping $116.5 billion. “We're making big investments in our future while spending less of our taxpayer's money to maintain our state's strong financial standing and robust economy," DeSantis wrote in a letter to Secretary of State Cord Byrd listing the line-item vetoes. To talk more about the role of arts organizations in the Tampa Bay economy and how they will navigate the next year without those state grants, we spoke with David Jenkins, Producing Artistic Director at Jobsite Theater at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, Mary Bensel, Executive Director at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in the city of Sarasota, Brian Hersh, CEO of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota and Jennifer Jones, President and CEO, Florida Cultural Alliance.

Arts organizations around Florida are scrambling to make up budget shortfalls after Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed $32 million in cultural and museum grants. The cuts will have an impact on hundreds of theatres, museums, performance groups and other arts organizations large and small. The vetoes are part of nearly $1 billion that DeSantis trimmed from the state budget, which is now a whopping $116.5 billion. “We're making big investments in our future while spending less of our taxpayer's money to maintain our state's strong financial standing and robust economy," DeSantis wrote in a letter to Secretary of State Cord Byrd listing the line-item vetoes. To talk more about the role of arts organizations in the Tampa Bay economy and how they will navigate the next year without those state grants, we spoke with David Jenkins, Producing Artistic Director at Jobsite Theater at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, Mary Bensel, Executive Director at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in the city of Sarasota, Brian Hersh, CEO of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota and Jennifer Jones, President and CEO, Florida Cultural Alliance.

Listen in as Push Party playwright Nia Akilah Robinson, along with Producing Artistic Director of The Hearth Julia Greer, discuss just what a “push party” is, high school drama, naming characters, showing unspoken love, enmeshment, making peace with what's passed … Continue reading →

Across two decades Idris Goodwin has forged an impactful and diverse career as a multiple award-winning playwright, breakbeat poet, director, educator, and culturist. Idris is a 2021 United States Artist Fellow, recognized as one of the most compelling artists living and working in the country, and The New York Times has hailed his work as “incisive and moving.”   Idris is the author of over 50 original plays ranging from his Hip Hop inspired breakbeat series to historical dramas to works for young audiences. Goodwin has appeared on or created content for HBO Def Poetry, Sesame Street, NPR, BBC Radio, Nickelodeon and the Discovery Channel. His plays include And In This Corner Cassius Clay, How We Got On, Hype Man and This is Modern Art. Idris is the co-host The Same Old New School Podcast on Vocalo Radio.  Idris is currently the Artist Director for the Seattle Children's Theater. Previous to that, he was the Director of The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, the first Black man to hold the position in its 100-year history and served two seasons as Producing Artistic Director at StageOne Family Theatre in Louisville, Kentucky. Supported by prestigious institutions like The Kennedy Center, The Eugene O'Neill Conference, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Arena Stage, and The Playwrights' Center, Goodwin uses his full creative powers to galvanize people into the community square to sculpt better tomorrows. Find him at idrisgoodwin.com. Goodwin's debut children's book YOUR HOUSE IS NOT JUST A HOUSE was published by Harper Collins on May 7, 2024. About YOUR HOUSE IS NOT JUST A HOUSE One rainy day, a kid opens their closet to discover a teleportation chamber. In the adventure of make-believe that follows, we are invited to see our homes as more than places to live—they are vessels for creativity and joy. With whimsy and musicality, Idris Goodwin calls on his theater and hip-hop backgrounds to deliver an irresistible read-aloud, inviting us to see that our homes are more than places to live—they are vessels for creativity and joy. It's a rainy summer day, and one child is about to go on an adventure of the imagination, as illustrated by Lorraine Nam's beautiful and vivid cut-paper artwork.   Want to watch: YouTube Meisterkhan Pod (Please Subscribe)

Send us a Text Message.Thanks for joining us. In this episode we speak with:Tim Bair, Producing Artistic Director & Guy Gardner, Associate Artistic Director with The Theatre in the Park. Their 2024 Season runs May 31 - August 3, 2024.Bye Bye BirdieMAY 31 - JUNE 8, 2024Anastasia: The MusicalJUNE 14-22, 2024Anything GoesJUNE 28 - JULY 6, 2024Hello, Dolly!JULY 12-20, 2024Sister ActJULY 26 - AUGUST 3, 2024Our MUST SEE KC picks are:The Theatre in the Park - See AboveFiddler on the Roof at Theatre Lawrence. June 7 - 23, 2024. (785) 843-7469-----This show is hosted and produced by Tess Koppelman and Jamie Campbell. This episode is mixed and edited by our Executive Producer Nathan Gwartney. Thomas Newby composed our theme music.If you have something you would like featured on our show reach out to us through our social media.Follow Us On:InstagramFacebookYouTubeWebsite

Things looked dicey for a while for this season for PerSIStence Theatre Company, but they pulled it all out of the ashes and can't wait to showcase new works this summer. We spoke with Producing Artistic Director Jenn Deon.

Send us a Text Message.We speak with Houston Pride 365 honorary grand marshal, Sara Fernandez.  We discuss her activism and her work in creating the banner project.   Houston lesbian activist Sara Fernandez was visiting museums in New York City in the spring of 2013 when she first became inspired to bring her hometown's LGBTQ history to life.While the exhibits she visited there were not highlighting the LGBTQ community, LGBTQ history was included in both. One exhibit documented queer life on the Lower East Side in 1993. The other featured a permanent display of 20th-century activists that included suffragettes, civil-rights icons, and gay-liberation pioneers.Then we discuss The Luck of the Draw, a fundraiser for DiverseWorks. Luck of the Draw, DiverseWorks' famed fundraising event, returns to the MATCH. This year, the theme is Ecosystem – reflecting DiverseWorks' commitment to our forthcoming Climate Action Plan and the exhibition and performance series, River on Fire, opening this fall. Luck of the Draw attendees provide crucial sustenance to DiverseWorks and Houston's creative ecosystem. More than 200 works on paper, each one 7 x 9 inches, will be available for purchase at this year's event. Participating artists include Trenton Doyle Hancock, Preetika Rajgariah, Kaneem Smith, James Surls, and Lillian Warren, to name just a few. Finally, we speak with Ron Jones regarding his play “Appropriate”. The estranged members of the Lafayette clan have returned to their crumbling Arkansas plantation home to settle the estate of their recently deceased patriarch. As they sort through a lifetime of their father's junk and hoarded mementos, a disturbing and horrifying discovery surfaces, confronting the family with more than what to do with a house full of stuff. Can a lifetime of clutter disguise the true nature of what lies beneath?  Ron Jones returns to the helm for his fourth production with Dirt Dogs Theatre Co. He previously directed White Guy on the Bus, as well as Clybourne Park and August: Osage County, for both of which he was a finalist for best director in the Houston Theater Awards. With more than 45 years in the industry, Jones has directed nearly 150 productions and acted in well over 100. He spent the bulk of his career teaching theatre for HISD and Lone Star College before retiring. Ron currently serves as Producing Artistic Director for On the Verge Theatre and is the former Artistic Director of New Heights Theatre and Celebration Theatre.Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here. Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond. Check out our socials at:https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ andhttps://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Zack talked with Len Berman and Michael Riedel about the park's summer entertainment schedule.

Send us a Text Message.Thanks for joining us. In this episode we speak with:Harvey Williams, Founder/Executive Director of KC Melting Pot Theatre presenting WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF May 2-11, 2024. Tickets at kcmeltingpot.com.Cynthia Levin, Producing Artistic Director of Unicorn Theatre. Unicorn Theatre is celebrating their 50th Anniversary on Saturday, June 22, 2024 and Cynthia will be retiring this Spring after 45 years with the theatre. Join the Anniversary Celebration by getting tickets at unicorntheatre.org.  Our MUST SEE KC picks are:Kansas City Ballet presents JEWELS May 10-19, 2024. Get tickets and more information at kcballet.org.Kansas City Repertory Theatre presents LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS April 30 - May 19, 2024. Get tickets and more information at kcrep.org.Unicorn Theatre presents H.O.T. THE MUSICAL May 8-June2, 2024. Get tickets and more information at unicorntheatre.org.This show is hosted and produced by Tess Koppelman and Jamie Campbell. Our Executive Producer is Nathan Gwartney. Our Audio Engineer is Paul Vedros. Episodes are mixed and edited by Thomas Newby who also composed our theme music.If you have something you would like featured on our show reach out to us through our social media.Follow Us On:InstagramFacebookYouTubeWebsite

Partnership For The Arts Group Podcast #103 “Where We Talk Art …with Sarasota Rising Executive Director Jeffery Kin. Jeffery joins Victor in the studio as they discuss the community goals of the art organization called Sarasota Rising. After receiving his BFA in Performing Arts Jeffery quickly became the “go-to talent” for the region's theater organizations. He led The Players Centre for Performing Arts as their Producing Artistic Director through acclaimed seasons for 15 years. Now he's the Executive Director for Sarasota Rising and they have some big events planned that will encompass all of the Saratoga Arts communities in Florida and beyond to do something that's not been accomplished before, and it starts with a weeklong marquee festival in November 2024. So hit that play button and you can hear all about it! Enjoy!!! Where We Talk Art is based in Punta Gorda, FL. at The Visual Art Center. https://visualartcenter.org/

Franklin Trapp, Producing Artistic Director of Forestburgh Playhouse, joins us to talk about the excitement and challenges of producing 7 mainstage shows in the summer on top of presenting cabarets, theater for young audiences programming, and a new play festival. https://www.fbplayhouse.org/ This episode is sponsored by Harbinger Theatre's production of "In The Blood" by Pulitzer winner, Suzan-Lori Parks. Performances: March 15-24 at the Saint Rose Theatre

Rebekah Scallet, Artistic Director for the New Jewish Theatre in St. Louis, stopped by to talk with Nancy about the theatre, her career and the upcoming season which starts near the end of March 2024. Rebekah Scallet is a stage director, educator, and arts leader. She is currently the Artistic Director for the New Jewish Theatre in St. Louis, and is the past Producing Artistic Director for the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre.  She believes in a theatre that is imaginative, interactive, and accessible for all, and one that can and should play a role in bringing communities together and making them stronger.

Joseph Rodriguez on the Joys and Growth of Acting, Failing, and Thriving This episode is brought to you by Izolda's favorite productivity and well-being app, Brain.fm*, and this podcast's host Podbean*. Joseph W. Rodriguez* is an actor, writer, and Producing Artistic Director of Playhouse Creatures (where he has produced over thirty plays). For PCTC: STILL LIFE (with Ancram Opera House), EXECUTION OF JUSTICE, The Two-Character Play ( 2017 New York/ The Duo Theatre), New Orleans (2018 Southern Rep); Mrs. Packard (with Bridge Rep), One Flea Spare, More Stars Then There Are In Heaven, Hunter/ Gatherers, Charlotte The Destroyer, Love Song, 6xTenn, Closer, The Libertine (The Kirk, Theatre Row), and The Libertine (with Bridge Rep – IRNE Nomination, Best Actor). Other NYC: Buffalo Hair with Jeffrey Wright (The Public Theater); The Normal Heart with Bobby Cannavale (The Duo Theatre); Richard III with Austin Pendleton, Macbeth – title role (New Perspectives); Linnehan's Daughter (Naked Angels); Landscape of the Body, Hurlyburly (T. Schreiber Studios); Innocent Erendira – world premiere with Miriam Colon (Repertorio Espanol). Regional: Hamlet with Mark Rylance, King Lear with F. Murray Abraham (A.R.T.); Iphigenia (The Huntington); Children of the Sun (The Kennedy Center); A Streetcar Named Desire, American Buffalo, Safe Sex, A Christmas Carol (The New Ehrlich Boston); Vieux Carre, Breaking the Code – Best Supporting Actor, Boston Herald (The Triangle Theatre); The Boys Next Door with Lance Reddick (Worcester Forum Theatre). TV/FILM: Glory, The Opposite of Sex, Desolation Angels, Against the Law, Guiding Light, As the World Turns, Another World, the titular character in Sci-Fi Channel's Cameron Grant. He is a proud member of AEA and SAG-AFTRA. Connect with Joseph and Playhouse Creatures IG: https://www.instagram.com/jrodriguez931/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/playcreatures/ https://playhousecreatures.org/ Connect with Izolda Book a Discovery Call Answering a Question? We'd love to hear from you! Leave Me A Voicemail (and yours might get picked to be in an episode) This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It's also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you've been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** An Ingenious Idea! You can now show your support with Creative Solutions Podcast Merch! Grab the Creative Solutions logo on a bottle, hat, phone case, button, and more.    Support the show on Patreon.  Support the show. Buy me a coffee. Social Media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/izoldat/ Website: IzoldaT.com Author Website: https://izoldatauthor.com/ Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/IzoldaST Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izoldat/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@izoldat Twitter: https://twitter.com/Izoldat Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |   I'm thrilled that you're tuning in to the Creative Solutions Podcast. Get in touch if you have questions or comments. *Affiliate link. If you purchase it through the above links and take the 20% off, I'll get a small commission.    

In the second hour, Pat McDonald is joined in-studio by Mike Sullivan, Owner of The Mud Studio in Waterbury. Then, Kathleen Keenan, Producing Artistic Director of Lost National Theater tells us about their upcoming holiday schedule.

The Classic Theatre of Maryland is busy! Get into the spirit of the holidays with a little White Christmas or A Christmas Carol at the Classic Theatre of Maryland.  The professional theater company will be presenting ten alternating shows of both favorites through December 24th in their main theater. But that is not all-- perhaps you want to kick off the week with a Cabaret featuring classics from the 1940s! Or a reading about the Ghosts of Dickens! Tickets for all of these are going fast (the theater only seats 125) so pick up a pair today! Today we speak with the Founder and Producing Artistic Director, Sally Boyett, for all the info you need to support this artistic gem.  And we discuss the remainder of the season, including Jane Eyre, Gypsy, Crazy for You, and plenty of Shakespeare and monthly Cabarets! And while my kids might disagree, Sally and I agreed that there has not been any good music since the 1980s! :)  Have a listen. LINKS: Classic Theatre of Maryland (Website) Classic Theatre of Maryland (Facebook) Classic Theatre of Maryland (Twitter) Classic Theatre of Maryland (Instagram) Classic Theatre of Maryland (YouTube)

This episode we are joined by Lauren Kennedy Brady!  Lauren is the Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Raleigh and her Broadway credits include Sunset Boulevard, Side Show, Les Miserables and Spamalot.  She has numerous regional credits and was the original Kathy in Jason Robert Brown's The Last Five Years.  We chat with Lauren about her career in New York and what brought her back home to Raleigh.  We also talk about all things Theatre Raleigh and her finding her calling in producing.  

Rachel May is the Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director of Synchronicity Theatre in Atlanta, GA. She has directed over 25 productions for Synchronicity Theatre. Her directing work has been seen in and around Atlanta at Actor's Express, Aurora Theatre, Theatre Gael, Dad's Garage, and the University of Georgia.  In addition to her executive role at Synchronicity, she actively teaches and leads workshops across Atlanta, and has made a tremendous impact on the theatre industry across the city. 

It's the beginning of our 5th Season here at the Platte River Bard, and today we talk with Voices in Alliance about their upcoming production, "The Inheritance Part 1", which opens November 3rd and runs through Nov 12th. Voices In Alliance is a theatre company in Omaha which began in 2022. We talk with their Producing Artistic Director, Randall T. Stevens and one of the Actors in "The Inheritance Part 1", Travis Manley. Both of these Creatives are engaging and passionate about telling the stories. VIA Omaha's seeks to find a space in which the LGBTQ+ Community can connect through inspiring, inclusive, diverse, provocative, and complex stories that explore both the ordinary and extraordinary of the queer experience. Find all about it here!   VOICES IN ALLIANCE (VIA Omaha) CONTACT INFO: Tickets Info and Website: https://www.viaomaha.org/  Ticket Link:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-inheritance-part-1-by-matthew-lopez-tickets-706315979107?aff=oddtdtcreator.  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/VIAOmaha/  This production will be performed at the Bancroft Street Market, 2702 South 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68108.   CONTACT INFO:  HOW TO LISTEN TO THE PLATTE RIVER BARD PODCAST Listen at https://platteriverbard.podbean.com or anywhere you get your podcasts. We are on Apple, Google, Pandora, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Podbean, Overcast, Listen Now, Castbox and anywhere you get your podcasts. You may also find us by just asking Alexa. Listen on your computer or any device on our website: https://www.platteriverbard.com. Find us on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCPDzMz8kHvsLcJRV-myurvA. Please find us and Subscribe!  

Carolyn German is a wordsmith, performer, arts consultant, teaching artist, and professional theater-maker.  Since 2000 she has been the Producing Artistic Director of Theater Craft Inc.  Carolyn's scripts include both plays (Mosaic-Eclectic New Short Plays; Jo-fina) and musicals (Airship at Vapor Station; Nashville-The Music City Musical).  She recently wrapped filming of a proof-of-concept short for her feature-length screenplay about Ethel Rosenberg.  Her TYA scripts include the award-winning The Story Builders, as well as Burden of Justice-1863 and The Curious Picnic.  Carolyn is the author of  the textbook The Monologue Method: A Comprehensive Approach to Teaching Acting in the Classroom.  Her project coach/editing work includes books by humorist/essayist Bobby Evers (Shoes and Cheese and Death and Ham). Carolyn is a faculty member at the Nashville Jazz Workshop, where she taps her 30 years of expertise in the art of improv to teach her Improv Comedy for the Musical Artist.  Her one-woman show "Unsolicited Advice” was nominated as Best Debut Show 2022 by the Manhattan Association of Cabarets (MAC), and she is an award-winning songwriter (MAC 2022).  She was formerly the Supervisor of Theater and Music for Metro Nashville Parks Cultural Arts, cultivating programming for Nashville's broad demographic.  Carolyn holds a MPS in Training and Development, leveraging her arts expertise to bring soft-skills training to corporate teams.   “Cabaret Artist” reel:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7ZamrPz6igHost - Trey MitchellIG - treymitchellphotographyIG - feeding_the_senses_unsensoredFB - facebook.com/profile.php?id=100074368084848Sponsorship Information  -  ftsunashville@gmail.comTheme Song - The Wanshttps://www.thewansmusic.com/https://www.facebook.com/thewansmusic/https://www.instagram.com/thewans/?hl=en

Pasadena Playhouse, the official State Theater of California, is internationally recognized for its significant role in the development of American theater. One of the most prolific theaters in the country, the Playhouse has staged thousands of original productions since its founding in 1917 including premieres of works by Tennessee Williams, Eugene O'Neill, Suzan Lori Parks and hundreds more.Under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director Danny Feldman since 2016, Pasadena Playhouse's productions and community programs are centered on its founding idea of being a living force in its community, making theater for everyone. Today, the Playhouse continues to advance the American theater and serves as a hub for the top theatermakers of our time.In this episode, we chat about the theater's upcoming season, dive into Danny's own creative journey, and dig deeper into important matters of diversity, accessibility, creative living, and more.For more information about Pasadena Playhouse, or to book tickets, visit https://www.pasadenaplayhouse.org/ Support the showSo grateful for all the listeners! Check the links below from charities, subscriptions, merch, reading list, and more. Love the show?You can now support the show with a subscription! Click here for all the details.**Want to write a review? Click here for details.** Donate Dachshund Rescue of Houston hereBlog https://tstakaishi.wixsite.com/musicInsta @creative_peacemeal_podcastFB @creativepeacemealpodBonfire Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/creative-peacemeal/Redbubble Merch CPPodcast.redbubble.comCreative Peacemeal READING list hereInterested in Corrie Legge's content planner? Click here to order!

For episode 064 of Actorcast, I am joined by my good friend, Bobbi Block! I had the opportunity to work with Bobbi on a show called Playing Favorites a handful of years ago, and it was such a learnable experience for me as an actor. In this episode we discuss how Bobbi got into improvisation, and how she went on to develop her method of "Actors Improv." We discuss a variety of forms of improv, how it can help actors with their scripted work, and how improv has the ability to help those outside of the industry as well. To learn more about Bobbi's amazing work, please visit https://bobbiblock.com/ and https://tongue-groove.com/ Bobbi Block is a Philadelphia-based theater artist.  She performs, directs, teaches and produces unscripted theater.  She founded and was the Producing Artistic Director of critically acclaimed Tongue & Groove Spontaneous Theater for 15 years. She Co-Founded and continues to perform with Barrymore Award Recipient ComedySportz Philadelphia.  She teaches Improvisational Theater at Temple and Drexel Universities, and has taught her signature ‘Actors' Improv' method around the world.  Recently Bobbi ventured back into scripted theater as Agatha in Michael Hollinger's Incorruptible.  Bobbi has an MA in Theater from Villanova, and a BA from the University of Pennsylvania. Bobbi's other career is a Communication Skills Facilitator and Applied Improv practitioner. Follow my work at https://patrick-mcandrew.com.

Peter Rothstein, Artistic Director/Co-Founder of Theater Latte Da has long been a favorite director of the Twin Cities Theater Bloggers. Jill Schafer of Cherry and Spoon and Carol Jackson of Minnesota Theater Love sat down with him to talk about his new production of Next to Normal (opening June 7 at Theater Latte Da), his experiences in Twin Cities theater and how it's changed over the last 25 years (for the better!), and his new position as Producing Artistic Director at Asolo Rep in Sarasota, Florida. Peter, you will be missed!Twin Cities Theater Chat is produced and hosted by Carol Jackson of Minnesota Theater Love and members of the Twin Cities Theater Bloggers collective. As always, you can find the Twin Cities Theater Bloggers on Facebook and on Instagram. Read our review round-ups and go see a show today!

Tony Award winner John Rubinstein (Pippin, Children of a Lesser God) will star as President Dwight D. Eisenhower in Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground, a new American play by Richard Hellesen and directed by Peter Ellenstein. Following acclaimed Los Angeles engagements, The New Los Angeles Repertory Company (Peter Ellenstein, Producing Artistic Director) will present the seven-week Off-Broadway engagement, June 13 through July 30, at Theatre at St. Clements (423 W. 46th Street, NYC). Opening night is Tuesday June 20 at 7PM. Tickets are now on sale at OvationTix.com. For further information, visit EisenhowerThePlay.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jared Mezzocchi (jaredmezzocchi.com)(TW:@JaredMezzocchi) is an two-time Obie Award-winning theater artist, working most notably as a director and multimedia designer. Mezzocchi's work has appeared at theaters nationwide, including the Kennedy Center, the Geffen Playhouse, Vineyard Theater, Arena Stage, Woolly Mammoth (company member), Milwaukee Rep, South Coast Rep, Portland Centerstage, and many more. In 2016, he received an Obie, Lucille Lortel and Henry Hewes Award for his work in Qui Nguyen's “Vietgone” at the Manhattan Theatre club. In 2020, the New York Times spotlighted his multimedia innovations during the pandemic alongside the work of four other theater artists, including Andrew Lloyd Webber and Paula Vogel. His work on Sarah Gancher's digital premiere of “Russian Troll Farm” (co-director & multimedia designer, and second Obie) was also celebrated as a New York Times critic pick, and praised for being one of the first digitally native successes for virtual theater. Mezzocchi is a two-time Macdowell Artist Fellow, a 2012 Princess Grace Award winner, and is an Associate Professor at The University of Maryland, where he teaches in the MFA Design program for the projection and multimedia track. He grew up in New Hampshire, and returns every summer to serve as Producing Artistic Director of Andy's Summer Playhouse, an innovative children's theater producing original work by professional artists from across the country. 

Jared Mezzocchi (jaredmezzocchi.com)(TW:@JaredMezzocchi) is an two-time Obie Award-winning theater artist, working most notably as a director and multimedia designer. Mezzocchi's work has appeared at theaters nationwide, including the Kennedy Center, the Geffen Playhouse, Vineyard Theater, Arena Stage, Woolly Mammoth (company member), Milwaukee Rep, South Coast Rep, Portland Centerstage, and many more. In 2016, he received an Obie, Lucille Lortel and Henry Hewes Award for his work in Qui Nguyen's “Vietgone” at the Manhattan Theatre club. In 2020, the New York Times spotlighted his multimedia innovations during the pandemic alongside the work of four other theater artists, including Andrew Lloyd Webber and Paula Vogel. His work on Sarah Gancher's digital premiere of “Russian Troll Farm” (co-director & multimedia designer, and second Obie) was also celebrated as a New York Times critic pick, and praised for being one of the first digitally native successes for virtual theater. Mezzocchi is a two-time Macdowell Artist Fellow, a 2012 Princess Grace Award winner, and is an Associate Professor at The University of Maryland, where he teaches in the MFA Design program for the projection and multimedia track. He grew up in New Hampshire, and returns every summer to serve as Producing Artistic Director of Andy's Summer Playhouse, an innovative children's theater producing original work by professional artists from across the country. 

Design has the power to influence the community, but what happens when you're designing at the intersection of cultural institutions? For more than five years, BHDP and Playhouse in the Park have been collaborating on a new theater and lobby renovation. From the artists' community at Playhouse to Eden Park to Cincinnati's historic Mount Adams neighborhood, we dive into BHDP's approach that flipped the script on design by bringing the park to the Playhouse. Hear from Blake Robison, Producing Artistic Director of the Tony Award-winning Playhouse in the Park, and Tom Arends, Design Leader and Partner at BHDP, just days before the unveiling of this exciting project.

Ep. 21 Stephen Sunderlin: Theatre is an Apprenticeship On this episode, our hosts recall thing that drew them into booths at conferences, and Bryan sits down to talk business with Stephen Sunderlin. Stephen shares his story of moving to NYC and eventually becoming the Artistic Director at Vital Theatre Company. Stephen shares the benefits of connections, the details of producing new works, the importance of good marketing materials, and the value of being open to working every experience in theatre. Stephen Sunderlin is the Producing Artistic Director of Vital Theatre Company (https://www.vitaltheatre.org/) bringing to life productions like Pinkalicious The Musical, Fancy Nancy, and more! Follow us on social media and let us know your thoughts and questions - https://linktr.ee/nobusinesslikepod

Theater-maker Debra Ann Byrd has played Othello in three different productions: first, in a staged reading in 2013, then again in 2015 and 2019. Each time, she learned a little bit more about Othello, and about herself. In her one-woman show Becoming Othello: A Black Girl's Journey, Byrd recounts her experience discovering herself while playing Shakespeare's tragic hero. The show reaches back to her childhood in Spanish Harlem, her mother's tragic death, and her own struggles with depression. She also tells the story of how she was inspired to start the Harlem Shakespeare Festival after seeing how few opportunities there were for actors of color to work in classical theater. Byrd discusses her journey, and the play it inspired, with host Barbara Bogaev. Becoming Othello: A Black Girl's Journey is onstage at Seattle Shakespeare Company through January 29, 2023. Debra Ann Byrd is the founder of the Harlem Shakespeare Festival and Producing Artistic Director of Southwest Shakespeare Company. She is a former Folger Artistic Research Fellow. From the Shakespeare Unlimited podcast. Published January 13, 2023. © Folger Shakespeare Library. All rights reserved. This episode was produced by Matt Frassica. Garland Scott is the associate producer. It was edited by Gail Kern Paster. Ben Lauer is the web producer. Leonor Fernandez edits a transcript of every episode, available at folger.edu. We had technical help from John Buroker at HEARby sound in Seattle, and Jenna McClellan at Voice Trax West in Studio City, California. Final mixing services provided by Clean Cuts at Three Seas, Inc.