Table to Stage: Recent Episodes
Table to Stage
Exploring creativity through the stories and experiences of creators everywhere. Focused on Connecticut, but with a global reach.
Connecticut-based playwright whose work has been produced throughout the United States and across the globe. He has studied at Columbia and Juilliard, and his published plays include Kodachrome, Clown Bar, Rare Birds, and many others.
https://www.adamszymkowicz.com/home.php
Music: "Welcome to Hi" by Cameron Werme, 2018
Music: "Journey to the Sun" licensed by HookSounds, royalty free music
Middle School teacher John Comey, known to his community as Emperor Comey, is an energetic, passionate educator of 5th and 6th grade social studies in the Providence, Rhode Island, area. His creativity in the classroom doesn't end with lesson planning - he creates an immersive community for his students to explore the topics and their own minds. How far can a creative mindset go in a classroom?
Music:
"Welcome to Hi" by Cameron Werme (C) 2018
"Journey to the Sun" Licensed by HookSounds (Royalty Free Music)
education #teacher #socialstudies #civics #creativity #keepcreating #providence #providenceri #rhodeisland #charterschool
Hartford-based comedian Rob Santos understood early that identity was going to play a major role in his life - Black, Puerto Rican, and Beige American, always on the edges of acceptance. Identity - whether branding, politics, or mindfulness work - is inescapable, and Rob makes a mission of refining and protecting his. Rob's "Each One Teach One" workshop uses mindfulness and his personal experience to help other comedians hone their craft, and having just established his own studio space in Hartford he's back at it, working with others during uncertain and stressful times. We talked race, representation, identity politics, and more. This is Part Two of our conversation. NSFW/Explicit content.
Instagram @Muse324
Twitter @MisterSantos
www.robsantoscomedy.com
Music:
"Welcome to Hi" by Cameron Werme, all rights reserved
"Wholesome" by Kevin Macleod, incompotech.com, all rights reserved
Hartford-based comedian Rob Santos understood early that identity was going to play a major role in his life - Black, Puerto Rican, and Beige American, always on the edges of acceptance. Identity - whether branding, politics, or mindfulness work - is inescapable, and Rob makes a mission of refining and protecting his. Rob's "Each One Teach One" workshop uses mindfulness and his personal experience to help other comedians hone their craft, and having just established his own studio space in Hartford he's back at it, working with others during uncertain and stressful times. We talked race, representation, identity politics, and more. This is Part One of our conversation. NSFW/Explicit content.
Instagram @Muse324
Twitter @MisterSantos
www.robsantoscomedy.com
Music:
"Welcome to Hi" by Cameron Werme, all rights reserved
"Wholesome" by Kevin Macleod, incompotech.com, all rights reserved
Brian David Judkins and Ned Donovan are the creative team behind Encounter Party! - a collaborative Dungeons and Dragons-bases storytelling podcast featuring a cast of professional voice actors and comedians. And it's an incredible exercise in precision and planning. Whether you're familiar with the actual play podcast world or not, you've never heard anything quite like Encounter Party! Get a behind-the-scenes look (listen?) at what it takes to build a community around a story.
Additional music by Alexander Nakarada, Serpentine Studios
https://soundcloud.com/serpentsoundstudios
Ukiyo-Pop artwork of Brian David Judkins www.ukiyopop.com
Charging Moose Media, Ned Donovan www.chargingmoosemedia.com
Dungeons and Dragons and Magic: the Gathering property of Wizards of the Coast
I listen to podcasts. Several of them. All day long. Honestly, it's a little much. But among the podcasts I look forward to the most every week is the 10ish Podcast. 10ish hosts and creators Nick and Brandon blend information and entertainment in a unique and hilarious way, counting down the very best (or worst) of any category. Whether it's serial killers or half time shows, the 10ish Podcast always delivers. Somehow, I conned them into speaking with me! So. Much. Fun.
"Welcome to Hi" Cameron Werme, copyright 2018
"Hackbeat" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
When it comes to sex education, it's sometimes difficult to get the information across. If you're awkward or uncomfortable talking about sex, maybe you'll struggle to engage your audience. But if you can make it funny and relatable? Enter Raylene Taskoski, comedian and sex toy expert, whose show "Stand Up Comedy Sex Ed" combines real sexual health education with comedy. It's a blend that resonates with audiences and gives answers to questions some might be too embarrassed to ask. Check her out at standupcomedysexed.com. (NSFW content may be sensitive for some listeners. Please take care.)
Music:
"Welcome to Hi" by Cameron Werme
"Let's Talk About Sex" by Salt 'N Peppa, 1990
Film Clip:
Monty Python's "The Meaning of Life" 1983
As COVID-19 continues to alter social and economic landscapes around the world, some are more immediately impacted than others. Lots of creative people have been forced to stay home, cancel performances, and lose lots of creative outlets. Dr. James C. Kaufman is a professor at the UConn Neag School of Education, and has written several books about creativity. He's also a returning guest on Table to Stage (definitely check out his earlier episode to learn more about the study of creativity). You can follow Dr. Kaufman on Twitter @JamesKaufman, or visit his website (jamesckaufman.com) to learn more about the psychology of creativity.
Movie clip from "Contagion" (C) 2011 Warner Bros.
"It's the End of the World As We Know It" (C) 1987 R.E.M., from the album "Document"
Ghost (Andrew Mattei) found his love of Hip Hop dance thanks to a friend and a YouTube video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXO-jKksQkM) - and nearly a decade later he's a dance instructor and three-time contestant on So You Think You Can Dance. The groove has taken him places, for sure. And the creative energy of animation style dance (if you haven't seen it, you absolutely must) is unique and entertaining. You can see Ghost get his groove on by following him on Facebook under Ghost of CT, on Instagram @theghost_of_ct, and on Twitter @ghostdancer0916.
"Pumped Up Kicks" (c) Foster the People
Master woodcarver and carousel enthusiast Bob Yorburg has written the book on Acanthus carving. It's called "Acanthus Carving and Design", and it's available wherever you get your favorite books (or at Amazon). Bob is based in New York, but travels all over sharing his skill and expertise with the iconic design style that we all recognize. Bob recently visited the New England Carousel Museum in Bristol, Conn., to tech a workshop, and he gave me a brief tour before heading back to New York. You can see Bob's work at bobyorburg.com, and learn more about the museum at thecarouselmuseum.org.
carousel #woodcarving #restoration #acanthus #carving
Excuse me while I geek out for a while. I love Dungeons & Dragons. I dabbled briefly in my teens, but only rediscovered the game in the past 3 or 4 years - so I can't claim to be a long time player. I'm definitely a part of the game's resurgence in popular culture. But long time players and newbies can share the table with 5th Edition, and the creative energy is always enjoyable. Jason and Meghan Gagne have been playing the game together for a while now, and have started incorporating some of Jason's hand-made miniatures into their sessions. It was awesome to be able to talk with them about a game that creates limitless possibilities for creativity.
"The great mystery of June Cleaver, her life, her marriage and her family, has plagued mankind for generations. How could such a perfect woman exist, loving a husband, raising two sons, and cooking so immaculately while never appearing stressed, over-worked, fed-up, or unsatisfied?"
Or, at least that's how the Amazon description of "June Cleaver: Sexual Deviant" begins. I don't remember feeling any sense of mystery around the characters on Nick At Night - they seemed pretty straight forward. And downright bland. But for author Benjamin Smith there was a backstory to be explored. So he created one, giving a new life to the matriarch of "Leave it to Beaver." His stage play centers on June and Ward Cleaver in their golden years, tackling their roles as grandparents and coming to terms with their pre-"Leave It ... " lives.
A play requires characters - usually several. And it's a challenge to bring multiple characters to life in audio format, but Trenton Bennett faced the challenge head on. June, Ward, and the rest of the cast are brought to aural existence by a single performer, and each voice presented its own challenge for Trenton.
On this episode of Table to Stage we hear from author and performer about "June Cleaver: Sexual Deviant."
Music from https://filmmusic.io
"Wholesome" by Kevin MacLeod https://incompetech.com
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Mckenzie Chapman is the co-host of the Chick Flicks podcast (https://chickflickspodcast.com/), discussing the feminist viewpoint - and overall worthiness - of some of the world's most popular (or dismal, as the case may be) films. She's also a skilled needlepoint artist, and if you visit mckenziechapman.com you can see her work for yourself. Whether the Chick Flicks are hating on some of my best childhood memories (see: Goonies) or celebrating some of my favorite modern action films (I'll watch John Wick all day), their perspective on cinema is refreshing. Check it out!
keepcreating #creativity #stitchisland #needlepoint #chickflicks #feminism
Kyle Pasciutti likes to create things the world has never seen before. His company, Decimated Designs (decimateddesigns.com) specializes in horror, but also works in whimsy and the fantastic, creating custom makeup, costumes, set pieces, and oversized animatronic puppies. And, of course, popsicles. Obviously. Whether it's creating an on-the-spot zombie at a convention, or sending oversized backpack heads (yeah, backpack heads) across the country, Kyle and his team love a creative challenge - and the skillset and artistry required to pull off these projects are varied and extensive. Get a peek behind the scenes of some special effects wizardry this week!
zombies #makeup #scenicdesign #staypuft #ghostbusters #thanos #decimated #creativity
Virginia Wolf is the host of Spot Light with Virginia Wolf on WLIS/WMRD out of Middletown, Connecticut - a radio program that highlights theater and the arts in Connecticut. Gosh, that sounds familiar! Virginia has been on the air for many years now, and her guests come from theater, art, dance, music, and other creative endeavors within visiting distance of the state. She's also a writer and performer, and the creative engine behind Herstory Theater (herstorytheater.com). You can catch Herstory's "Hitchcock and Horror" this month at The Arts at Angeloria's (https://www.theartsatangelorias.com/) in Southington, Connecticut. And if you tune into WLIS/WMRD (https://www.wliswmrd.net/2012/spotlight.htm) at 12:30 on October 24 you'll hear me on Spot Light! #keepcreating
Hartford playwright Jeffrey McCann is bringing the Fringe Festival to Hartford this October. (hartfordfringefestival.org) He's been involved in theater since the 80s, and has seen how the arts have impacted and changed lives. His experience living in the Seattle theater world have left a lasting impact, and he brings that influence with him to current projects - including the Hartford Fringe Festival. A really great conversation - and I learned a few things myself.
fringefestival #hartford #theater #playwright #arts #keepcreating
Music from https://filmmusic.io "Smooth Move" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Joey Marsocci is a creator. He's created original pieces for Hendrick's Gin, Disney Imagineering, the Mark Twain House & Museum, and so many more. He was on the forefront of the steampunk movement, and has literally written the book on steampunk art. As the artist behind Grymm Studios, Joey creates and embodies all kinds of creatures. You can see them at grymmstudios.com. Don't forget to rate and review the pod on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts!
steampunk #creature #cosplay #creativity #keepcreating
Music from https://filmmusic.io "Lost Time" & "Comfortable Mystery 4" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Maybe you can't picture what a dulcimer is just by hearing the word, but odds are that you'll recognize the sound when you hear Carolyn Brodginski play the instrument. It's something I've always considered rather rare, but as Carolyn points out it has been present in popular music for decades. And its distinctive sound is both joyful and soothing. Carolyn's band, Seat of Our Pants, features her dulcimer in their Americana sound, including on the band's latest release, "Song of Rabble and Roots", available now at seatofourpantsmusic.com. You can also pick up Carolyn's solo recordings at carolynbrodginski.com.
dulcimer #music #americana #creativity #keepcreating
Hartford-based conceptual artist David Borawski limits his pallet intentionally - black, white, silver, red. And he uses the contrast to great effect, drawing the eye and challenging his viewers not only in the moment, but later while reflecting on what they've seen. You can see some of his work for yourself at rot8or.org or at @davborski on Instagram.
art #conceptual #hartford #artist #creativity #keepcreating
Scott Stephen Kegler is a playwright and a clown ... and does just about everything else that involves a stage or an audience. When I saw a production of his play, Champaign and Licorice, I knew I need to speak with him about his work. There is depth and authenticity in his writing, and it was a great please to be able to speak with him about it.
theater #clowning #playwright #connecticut #stage #keepcreating
Corrin Zareck is an art educator, an artist, and the curator at the Gallery at the Mill in Unionville, Connecticut. She's been surrounded by art since early in her life, and remains surrounded by it - her own and the work of other artists from the area. The gallery is situated throughout a building that also houses various businesses and workshop spaces, so the pieces are in constant view - and open to the public whenever a drop-in is possible! Take a look at www.galleryatmill.com, and see Corrin's own work at www.corrinzareck.com.
art #gallery #connecticut #keepcreating
Sodada is based out of Massachusetts, part of the thriving Northampton music and art scene. Their sound is hard to pin down to a genre - which is part of what makes it so engaging. Hannah and Andy have been through a few iterations of this project, adapting their sound as they find inspiration and instrumentation to fit their creative vision. And they're just a damned joy to talk to. And support local music! sodada.bandcamp.com sodadamusic.com
creativity #indiemusic #livemusic #music #keepcreating
Richard DiCarlo started in the Bronx, freelancing as a ghost illustrator, and now works as a multimedia sculptor. His 3D paintings are self-contained stories, homages to cultural icons, and downright entertaining to see. Visit The Studio of Richard DiCarlo on Facebook to take a look at his work, which includes the Beatles, Ernest Hemingway, and Fisher Price, among others.
3dpainting #sculpture #connecticutartist #keepcreating
This episode is little on the short side - but oh boy is it packed! Hear from game designers from Phase Shift and Geek Fever, Off Cut, Stone Bones, and Table Fighter, plus a little Con recap with my good friend Joe of JBrooks Public Relations. ConnectiCon is a great event, with some of the most #creative #cosplayers in the region, and the events that the larger Con encompasses are fantastic. We spent most of our time with CTFIG, playing games and talking with game creators - the creative talents of this group is incredible!
https://www.phaseshiftgames.com/
http://www.geekfevergames.com/
https://www.offcutgames.com/#/
https://www.stonebonesgames.com/
https://www.tablefighter.com/
http://connecticon.org/
http://www.ct-fig.com/
keepcreating #connecticut #CTFIG #ConnectiConXVII #boardgames #games
If you visit amygenser.com you are going to see some incredibly vivid colors and interesting patterns. And if you listen to this episode you'll hear from Amy Genser about how she creates these amazing visuals using paper. It's a fascinating process, and Amy's artistic journey is a story worth hearing. From New Orleans to Hartford, this Connecticut artist has incorporated her experiences into some truly incredible art.
paperart #connecticutartist #keepcreating
Arts for Learning CT is dedicated to the integration of creativity and the arts into the classroom; encouraging the use of music, theater, and art in conjunction with history, math, English, and more. Alex Novak Foster, Craig Norton, and Anthony DePoto are all a part of the organization, and will be participating in the first annual "Cultivating Creativity" event at Quinnipiac University on July 10. Visit AFLCT.org for more information on the organization, its teaching artists, and the programs that it offers.
education #artseducation #creativity #creativelearning #cteducation #keepcreating
East Hampton, Connecticut-based artist Andrew Wallach is starting a revolution in spin art. It's a physical labor of love, putting his body in motion to give his paintings the sense of movement that his Revolution Art needs. And it's loud. Painting with the stereo cranked up, letting the music influence the process. Andrew's work will be showing at Sacrosanct Gallery of Contemporary American Art in East Hampton for the month of July, so stop in a take a look if you're in the area.
keepcreating #revolutionart #spinart #painting #connecticutartist
Jay Cole is a Canadian podcaster, musician, Yogi, and author ... among other things. We spoke about his experience living in Los Angeles - which could have been en episode on its own - his music and podcast projects, his use of Yoga and doctorate in metaphysics (Is it a thing? You be the judge.), and his new book, "How to Calm the Fuck Down: Meditation for the Blue Collars".
keepcreating #yoga #author #selfhelp #Canada #podcast #beats #meditation
"Commercial" art can often be overlooked. The people behind some of the world's most iconic logos and advertising campaigns don't get the recognition that their creations do. But in order to distill a brand to a single, instantly identifiable logo or catch phrase requires extraordinary creativity. The world of advertising hasn't changed much, but the faces of professionals are resembling the cast of "Mad Men" a little less every day. Gabriel and Zaida Perez are the husband and wife team behind VP Creative Agency, each finding space to operate within their own strengths and helping each other to shine. And as young entrepreneurs they face an uphill creative battle.
keepcreating #creativity #creative #marketing #advertising #entrepreneur
The Storyteller's Cottage in Simsbury, Connecticut, is a creative setting for writers and other creatively-minded people to mingle, explore their work, and escape into an adventure. Meet and speak with authors and publishers, get lost in the fantasy as you solve a mystery, or just have a cup of coffee with people who share your passion for stories. The Storyteller's Cottage came about almost accidentally - so hear the story from it's founder, Lisa Natcharian.
storytelling #stories #writing #writers #authors #mystery #mysteryroom #escaperoom
From grand cathedral windows to a small suncatcher in the kitchen window, stained glass comes in all shapes, sizes, and imagery. And a lot of glass has to get broken to create it all. Sarah Segovia has been breaking glass professionally for some time now, but she also reassembles it into stunning pieces of art. Her designs are often inspired by gothic or horror themes, but lighter motifs are also included. Sarah also teaches the art form to students of any skill level - though playing with glass probably isn't a great idea for really young kids.
stainedglass #creativity #glassart #sugarskull #frankenstein #fragilebeauty #keepcreating
There are very few magazines these days that really venture into the same territory as The Sun. It's a completely independent, advertising-free publication that provides a platform for some of the most exceptional writing and photography on the planet (is this guy's opinion, anyway). Derek Askey is one of the assistant editors of The Sun, and his journey from aspiring but hesitant writer to editorial staff is worth hearing about, and maybe a little familiar.
TheSunMagazine #TheSun #writing #editor #magazine #fiction #poetry #journalism #NorthCarolina #ChapelHill #Pittsburg #Pitt
For listeners of Connecticut Public Radio, the voice of Colin McEnroe is a familiar one. His newspaper columns appeared in the Hartford Courant for more than 3 decades before recently moving to Hearst Connecticut Media Group to explore new avenues for this writing. He's got great stories, wonderful insight, and the perspective on media that come only with decades of experience. And he still agreed to speak with me ... I guess no amount of experience can prevent some lapses in judgement!
npr #radio #hartford #courant #hearstmedia #ColinMcEnroeShow #connecticutpublicradio #wnpr
Hartford to Miami is not your average commute, but for Maestro Doris Lang Kosloff it's a reality. As the artistic director of Opera Connecticut, director of the Hartt School opera theater and vocal studies departments, and the principal guest conductor at the Miami Lyric Opera, she's got herself quite a few frequent flyer miles. And she's used her lifelong immersion in music to impact audiences and performers from all over the world.
opera #HARTTSchool #operaconnecticut #music #performance #maestro
Most meetings should just be emails. It's a fact. And it's an irritation that is universally accepted. Well, there's an anthem for that feeling now, and Thomas Benjamin Wild, Esq. is responsible for it. Tom is from Bedford, England, and his song "I've No More Fucks to Give" has racked up more millions of views than I'm going to count. He plays the banjolele dressed as someone who stepped out of a time machine from the 1940s, and mixes humor and stories from his life to create some unique and thoroughly entertaining songs. Visit thomasbenjaminwildesq.com to order a copy, or stream wherever you get your music!
Bill Covitz moved from the heat of a French cuisine kitchen to the sub-zero temperatures of the ice house in pursuit of of creative passions. A chain saw may not seem like the tool of an artist, but when you see the way Bill uses power tools to bring life to ice there is no doubting the artistry at hand. And there's music to be had in the ice, too. Visit icematters.com for photos or to commission an ice carving for your event!
icecarving #icesculpture #ice #icemusic #chainsaw #powertools #carving
Rebecca Maloney is a Naugatuck-based artist, painter, and pet portrait extraordinaire. You can spend an evening painting with her, take one of her more intense workshops, or visit one of her upcoming gallery showings - and definitely visit rebeccamaloneyart.com to get a glimpse at her work. Vivid color seems (at least to my untrained eye) to be a hallmark of her personal style, and there is an expression of joy in each piece. Follow her on Instagram or Facebook to keep up with workshop and paint night dates, too!
paint #ctartist #visualarts #painting #paintnight
Newington, Connecticut, native #filmmaker and #actor Erik Bloomquist has been involved in #theater and #film since high school, and has studied the craft intensely. Erik's latest film, Long Lost, is a #suspense #thriller that leans into the tension and doesn't give up. Erik previously worked with some of the film's cast members on his project "The Cobblestone Corridor," which was picked up by PBS. For more information about Erik's projects, check out his production company, Mainframe Pictures. Long Lost is available now to stream exclusively on Amazon, so dive in for a game of #sharksandminnows.
KeepCreating #PBS #IndieFilm #fluffybunny #CobblestoneCorridor
It's episode 50! :::drops a funky beat::: How does a local, theater-loving, son of a teacher and a musician grow up to be an #Ableton Programmer and an orchestrator? Well, apparently by accident. Scott Wasserman stumbled into learning the Ableton system while working on a small project called #Hamilton. But he worked REALLY REALLY hard to get that lucky break, and has worked with some of #Broadway's most iconic figures, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Alex Lacamoire, and Alan Menken. Scott is also the co-host of one of my favorite #podcasts, Song Salad, with his long time friend, lyricist Shannon Deep. Scott recently put up his first full orchestration of an original musical with "Austen's Pride" which is running through April 14. Visit ACT of CT for ticket information. You can see what else Scott has been up to at scott-wasserman.com - including #DearEvanHansen and #TheGreatComet.
musicaltheater #orchestration #ableton #songsalad #keepcreating
Grammy-winning songwriter Bill Pere joins the pod today to talk about his life-long passion for songwriting and social justice. The LUNCH Ensemble represents Bill's work toward ending childhood hunger, and he has incorporated his songwriting passion into this work. He's also written "The Songwriter's Coloring Book" to help other budding songwriters work on the craft. Bill is also a former Connecticut State Troubadour, and is a member of the Connecticut Songwriter's Association. This was a wonderful conversation with a genuine expert in his craft. Be sure to visit lunchensemble.com, ctsongs.com, and billpere.com for more information and upcoming programs.
songwriting #grammy #ctsongs #harrychapin #music
Faithlyn Johnson is the founder and executive director of Act Up! Theater, and her daughter Tyler Johnson is the production manager of the Hartford-based theater company. They spoke with me about the Act Up! mission, productions, and how the arts can have a positive impact in disadvantaged communities. Act Up! offers productions to the Hartford community including "Ebony Annie", "Stand", and the April 2019 offering, "Raisin", based on the classic play, "A Raisin in the Sun." The Johnson ladies have some amazing things to say about inner-city arts programs and how families and communities can grow together by participating. Visit actuptheater.org for information and tickets. Raisin has performances April 4-5 & 12-13.
hartford #actuptheater #raisin #ctarts #keepcreating
Khaiim the RapOet (@rapoet), also known as Self Suffice, is a #Hartford based #hiphop artist and educator. His influences run deep in the civil rights movement and his music reflects those influences. He focuses on the positive message of moving forward and overcoming oppression. His latest album, #SelfControl, is available now at bandcamp.com, and can be streamed (partially) via #iTunes, #GooglePlay, and #Spotify. Visit rapoet.com/music to stream the track "Plus" which features Suffice and #DJBoo. If you're in the area March 29-31, be sure to check out Trinity International Hip Hop Fest. And be sure to follow @rapoet on all the social media!
Michael C. Bailey left journalism for the same reason most newspapers have left journalism - there's no money in it! Hahaha ... actually, that's not funny. Anywhozzle. He's since embarked on a rather successful career as a novelist, with three ongoing series - Action Figures (young adult), Strongarm & Lightfoot (fantasy), and Well Behaved Women (urban fantasy) among other writing projects. All of his work can be found at innsmouthlook.com, including signed copies of his novels, so give it a look! And check out Strongarm & Lightfoot on Audible!
writing #fantasy #novel #innsmouthlook
While I was listening to Guns N' Roses, MC Hammer, and the Monkees (don't judge me, judger), apparently there were some people actually listening to the music that accompanied their video games. I mean, everyone knows the #SuperMarioBros theme music, but do you know who wrote it? Video Game Music has a strong following, and a podcast community to feed its hunger. Ed Wilson is the creator and host of the VGMbassy, where he explores the "video game music culture" of his guests and discovers some great tunes along the way. This was a really enjoyable chat - brought back a lot of good memories of my own - and provided great insight into a niche I've never fully appreciated.
vgm #videogamemusic #nintendo #sega #playstation #xbox #keepcreating
Art is an intimate thing - no matter the form. But the vulnerability on display in a artist's work are often alone. For Alicia Cobb that vulnerability extends to her canvases - often other people in varying degrees of undress. #BodyPainting requires trust between the artist and the canvas, and for all the time and effort that go into the work, it's rather temporary. Alicia's story is pretty great, and her work is incredible. Make sure to check out www.artsimplicated.com to see some of her work. You can also learn more about her art at https://www.pechakucha.com/users/alicia-cobb.
bridgeport #305knowlton #creativity #art #keepcreating
Ben Orlando has spent the last few years entertaining audiences in may different spaces, and as many different characters. But he's probably best known as Summer Orlando, "Connecticut's premier theatre Drag Queen!" There's some pretty heavy stuff covered in this conversation, but there's also lots of joy. Visit summerorlandoproductions.com for event schedules and more information. And be sure to check out Summer's performances in the New Haven area.
dragqueen #theatre #performance #judygarland #keepcreating
Leonardo "LAGONZA" Gonzalez has a knack for drawing, and his skill can be seen at leonardoillustration.com. He's the artist behind "Theatrics", a UK-published graphic novel that has gotten some pretty incredible reviews (specifically for the artwork), among many other projects. Check his stuff out, and follow @leonardogonzalezart on Instagram for daily sketches. He's also working on moving his art into the tattoo world! And his story is worth hearing.
lagonza #leonardoillustration #leoisnotaturtle #comics #illustration
Khamani Harrison identified a vacuum and decided to fill it. And that is the creative spirit that I hope we can all celebrate! The Key Bookstore (keybookstore.com) is Khamani's vision for bringing books - and the hope and knowledge they contain - into what she see's as the underserved black communities of Connecticut and beyond.The Key functions as a pop-up, mobile, interactive experience, and each selection is curated by Khamani. This is one of those times where I feel the conversation was important, and I hope you'll listen.
keybookstore #afrocentricity #entrepreneurism #environmentalism #uconn #the224
"Desultory: haphazard or random. Club: a group of people organized for a common purpose." Or so claims the website for the Desultory Theatre Club (desultorytheatreclub.com). Keith Paul began Desultory nearly a decade ago in order to bring creative artists into the area and to explore the use of interesting spaces in theatrical arts. And he talk good about it, too.
desultorytheatreclub #torringtonct #warnertheater #theatre
Jim Williams joined me in the first ever T2S remote recording! The quality isn't great, but it's a fun conversation. Lots of great theater opportunities coming through Connecticut this year, so there's something for everyone!
musical #preview2019 #couchgrouches #connecticuttheater
Theresa Govert was among a record number of women running for office in 2018, and the first time candidate took a lot away from the campaign. Even though she lost the race for Connecticut's 34th District, she represents a new generation of political leaders in the state and throughout the country. She was willing to speak with me just a couple of weeks following the 2018 midterm cycle, and it was great to get such wonderful insight into the process.
politics #campaign #yearofthewoman #womeninpolitics #creativity
Jon Bristol and Mike Finland of Elmwood Productions let me into the secret world of the Elmwood workshop to talk puppets, film making, and campsite murders. The fun kind - nothing untoward. We talk about everything from the craft of building a puppet to the challenges of filming and performing with puppets. If you're an Amazon Prime member and enjoy horror films, then definitely check out Elmwood's film, "Head", which has garnered Jon and company quite a bit of attention. And if you visit www.elmwood.vhx/products and enter the code "Table2Stage1" at checkout you'll receive awesome discounts on some of Elmwood's other great streaming content.
puppets #muppets #elmwood #horrorfilm #riselybrothers #animalbehavior #headhorror
Happy holidays to everyone! Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Happy Kwanzaa! Happy Tuesday, if that's all you're celebrating today! Get ready to fill your earholes with some beautiful a cappella Christmas music from the CT Yuletide Carolers (ctyuletide.com). Lori and Mike Cartwright started the group about 13 years ago, and they're a busy bunch this time of year. Lori, Mike, and Kent Jackson sat with me to discuss their group and the love of singing. There's lots of music sprinkled throughout the episode, so sing along!
ctyuletide #acappella #christmas #carols
World traveler and Fulbright Scholar Jacquelyn Gleisner talks about painting, patterns, the infinite, and Botswana. She works in large formats, and her time spent traveling in Italy, Finland, and elsewhere has shaped her work and her life. Visit jaquelyngleisner.com to see her work, and follow her on Instagram. Do it.
painting #scroll #artinembassies
Zufar Bikbov came to the U.S. from Russia at the end of 2003, with a medical background and a paintbrush. He's currently embracing his passion for oils on convas, and particularly Plein Air - outdoor - painting. You can view his work and instructional videos at zufar.com and confidentartist.com. We recorded at Arts Escape in Southbury, where you can take classes or otherwise explore your own creative passions. Visit artsescape.org for more information about their offerings.
oilpainting #pleinair #russianartist #creativity
Jeff Dooley has been the radio play-by-play voice of the Hartford Yard Goats more than 20 years, going back to their days as the New Britain Rock Cats. If you’ve never thought of sports broadcasting as a creative effort, I’d argue that you should reconsider, and Jeff talks about how he uses language to create images in listeners’ minds. Even if you’re not a sports fan I think you’ll enjoy this episode – and if you’re a baseball fan it’s an absolute can’t miss.
hartford #yardgoats #milb #rockies #minorleaguebaseball #mlb #baseball #radio #playbyplay #creativity
Hey! Want to hear from an author on a subject that makes me super uncomfortable? Becky Cummings' new book, "The Magic of Me: A Kids' Spiritual Guide to Health and Happiness", hits that nail right on the head. Becky is an experienced educator, and has lots to pass along to her readers. But, as she explains, her thoughts aren't going to appeal to everyone. We had a great conversation, though, and the book is doing very well on Amazon - it's available in paperback and for the Kindle. You can follow her on Facebook (Author Becky Cummings) or visit authorbcummings.com to learn more about her and the book.
authorbcummings #kidsbook #selfhelp #spirituality
Sea Tea Improv Comedy Theater (seateaimprov.com) has established itself quite solidly during its time in Hartford, providing improv and stand-up comedy to some of the area's top performers. Julia Pistell is currently the managing director, and one of the group's performers, of Sea Tea, and spoke to me about her path to improv and how the principles of improv can impact people off stage. Really great stuff.
seatea #seateaimprov #improv #comedy #standup
Author Elsa Kurt (elsakurt.com) and her alter ego, Melanie Cherniack, write for very different audiences. Melanie focuses on children's literature, while Elsa steams up the windows with contemporary women's fiction. Her newest (at the time of this recording), Mae's Cafe, is set in the fictional town of Chance, Connecticut, and can be found on Amazon or in your local bookstore. Including That Bookstore (thatbookstore.com) in Wethersfield, where we recorded this conversation. Check it out!
elsakurt #melaniecherniack #localauthor #ctauthor #womensliterature #childrensbooks
The Norwalk Gamer Symphony Orchestra (norwalkgso.org) is a collection of musicians and gamers gathering to play some of the most iconic pieces of video game music ever composed. And if you think video game music is just a bunch of beeps and whistles, well, it's evolved over the years. And it's fascinating.
ngso #gamer #music #vgm #videogamemusic
Michele Sansone is a costume designer, draper, and all-around theater creator. She is the creator and vision behind Sansone Designs Studio (www.sansone.carbonmade.com) and has been involved with bringing her own, or her director's, vision to the stage and the screen.
costumedesign #design #theater #art
Marina Diaz works in large formats, on unique surfaces, and with nuns. You'll just have to listen to figure it out. Also, visit http://rawartists.org/twistedrootsart or @_twistedrottsart_ on Instagram. Some images are NSFW ... so just make sure your boss isn't looking over your shoulder. Unless your boss is cool. Then go ahead. No lame bosses, though.
Marina's work will be showcased at Raw Connecticut Presents Ovation at the Oakdale in Wallingford on October 23. Tickets available online at http://rawartists.org/twistedrootsart.
twistedrootsart #rawartists #painting
Michael R. McGuire (don't forget the "R") is a novelist and playright, with several plays and a series of novels about Illuminati mysteries. We spoke about his influences, process, and the different satisfaction he feels from his various projects. Check out his work on Lulu.com or Amazon at https://amzn.to/2xYCGdQ.
michaelrmcguire #writing #novel #play #illuminati
Sometimes creativity isn't about the product or the process, it's about lifestyle. Charles and Jennifer Maring made the decision to live a life of creativity together and have spent the past 25 years doing exactly that. Together in Style is the umbrella under which most of their projects fall, including Maring Visuals and Charlee Fine Art Fashions. Visit togetherinstyle.com, maringvisuals.com, or shopcharlee.com to learn more. Charles' band, Outside Reality, is also online at outsidereality.band.
photography #painting #music #fashion #maring
Do yourself a solid and visit www.davidleemoneypenny.com now. You're gonna want a visual reference for some of the work discussed in this episode. David Lee Moneypenny (he claims this is his real name ... I'm skeptical) is an artist, and his work is unique - beautiful, to be sure. His skill as a woodworker and vision as an artist are apparent, as is his dedication to the art forms he uses.
crashedart #foundart #woodworking #popart #davidleemoneypenny
Terrible intro aside, you'll enjoy this episode. Sorry, I am. Kato McNickle has been diving head first into creative projects for many years, and that includes as a playright. She's worked for the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center, and her projects are numerous, including the overnight writing she did just hours after our conversation. You can follow her on Facebook.com/katomcnickle to keep up to date on her projects. And visit NewPlayExchange to see some of her work. Check it out!
newplays #playright #creative #eugeneoneilltheatercenter #eugeneoneill
Alin Tomorogo was born in Romania and migrated to the United States as a teenager. He has since opened his own tattoo shop in Manchester, CT. Alin runs Propaganda Tattoo (www.tattoopropaganda.com) and creates stunning original artwork. Check it out!
tattoopropaganda #alintomorogo #tattoo
It's been a few years now, but this isn't a news podcast. Penny Putnam and Shauna Holiman, two artists with different backgrounds, collaborated on an ambitious project turning discarded pianos into gallery-quality art pieces. You can see the project at www.pianoasart.com, and see their individual portfolios at www.pennyputnam.com and www.shaunaholiman.com.
pianoasart #piano #painting #art #greenwich #nyc #repurposedart
In 2009, Yasmina Reza's dark comedy, "God of Carnage", received the Tony Award for Best Play. That's kind of a big deal. Now, Dionysus Theater Company of Vernon, Connecticut, will be tackling Carnage in their unique black box theater space at the Vernon Arts Center. Show dates are September 7-9 and 14-16. Visit artscentereast.org for tickets, and dionysustheatercompany.org to learn more about the group and their productions. The founder of Dionysus, Gabbi Mendelsohn, along with Sharon Forbush and Marisa Clement, sat with me to discuss the show, the theater, and what it means to be a black box.
tonywinner #godofcarnage #dionysus
Sarah May is an art teacher and creator of Block 21 Prints, where she takes her original designs and creates block printed clothing and accessories. Block printing is the process of carving a reverse image in linoleum for transfer to another surface. You can see Sarah's designs on her Etsy store or at www.block21prints.com.
art #block21 #blockprinting
You have 10 minutes to get your story told, you have the writer, the director and the actors for a short period of time. GO!
Orange Players October production of Acting Up! An Evening of One Acts is part challenge, part entertainment, all creative. Auditions will be held September 4 & 5, with performances October 19 & 20, all at the High Plains Community Center, Orange, CT. Pat Miller, Cyndi Consoli, and Rich Moran sat with me to discuss their roles in the Acting Up! project, their creative histories, and more.
Visit facebook.com/orangeplayers or orangeplayers.net for more information.
oneact #play #orangeplayers
This is a - hopefully - corrected upload of the Mo Green episode. The first upload was an audio nightmare. Sorry about that.
Mo is a Hartford area comic, and describes himself as "controversial" so be prepared for some of that. I learned some things about myself, in terms of conversation and interviewing, but enjoyed speaking with him. Send those comments and questions my way to tabletostage@gmail.com or facebook.com/tabletostage.
Rich Arsenault is a jack-of-all-trades type creator. He works in lighting and sound design, portraiture photography, and recently began working with vintage arcade consoles. We got together to talk about his ongoing photograhy project, "Windows to the Past", which is part history lesson, part photography, and part photoshop magic trick.
Make sure to visit patreon.com/tabletostage to take a look at the different ways you can support the podcast.
photo #photoshop #history #windowstothepast
Previous guests of the show Matt Daigle (ConnectiCon) and Jason Miceli (CT Festival of Indie Games) talked up their events, and I just had to see them for myself. My first Con did not disappoint. Lots of great cosplay, vendors, and panels - a definite recommendation if you are into this type of entertainment. I was only able to be there for a few hours, but managed to snag a few interviews with some of the creators. Festive Ninja, Pair of Jacks Games, Yards the Game of Inches, Operation Hammond, Wyrmwood, and a chat about Manos: Hands of Fate are all included here.
connecticon #ctfig #games #cosplay #gamedev #wyrmwood #tabletoprpg #criticalrole #magicthegathering #manos #rpgmaker
Professor, Doctor, expert on creativity, whatever you call him, James C. Kaufman, Ph.D., knows the subject of creativity about as well as anyone. As a psychologist, Dr. Kaufman has been studying and writing about creativity for many years, and is currently a professor of educational psychology at the University of Connecticut. His bibliography is available here: https://goo.gl/mUyLw9. I was a little nervous talking with someone so deeply entrenched in the field, but we had a great chat about what creativity actual is, how it impacts the environment, and what happens when creative impulses lead to horrible outcomes.
There are only a few days left to get in on the very first Table to Stage tee-shirt offering, so visit www.bluecotton.com/campaigns/tabletostage to order yours today! $20 for a tee, $30 for a sweatshirt, and all to help in the production of this completely independent podcast and the creative people that appear on it! Make it so!
creativity #uconn #psychology #creativewriting #writersblock #creativearts #science
Johnathon Henninger is a photographer, photojournalist, and all-around camera-savvy fella. He spoke with me about his photography, the dangers of bias in photojournalism, and the challenges of function and practicality when constructing ... interesting ... things. You really should check out his work at www.johnathonhenninger.com or follow him on the social media things. We also got to experience the Celtic Cavern, a craft beer and gastro pub in Middletown - really nice place - not cheap, but nice. Check them out if you're in the area or at www.celticcavern.com.
Table to Stage tee-shirts are available RIGHT NOW for the low low price of $20 by visiting www.bluecotton.com/campaigns/tabletostage and adding dozens of them in your preferred sizes to your cart. So if you want to support this indepenent podcast and the creators that appear on it, wear that support on your physical person!
photo #photography #photojournalism #arts #creativity #middletown #celticcavern
After spending some years in New York City performing stand-up comedy, Rob Santos returned to Connecticut to be a part of the emerging scene in his home state. He spoke with me about his successes, frustrations, and some very serious topics - including racism and mental illness. Rob's approach to creativity is worth hearing about, and his philosphy is carried into the classes he teaches at Sea Tea Comedy Theater in Hartford. You can follow Rob on Twitter (@mistersantos) and Instagram (@Muse324) to find out where he'll be performing.
There is still time to order your Limited Edition Table to Stage Tee! Visit bluecotton.com/campaigns/tabletostage today!
standup #comedy #hartford #hartfordhasit #seateacomedy #eachoneteachone
When Ryan P. Cyr saw Disney's High School Musical, he knew he had to learn to dance. Now, ten years later, he just finished an international tour with West Side Story and moved onto an Albany, N.Y. production of Damn Yankees. He invited me to sit with him at Broadway Method Academy in Fairfield to discuss his rapid achievement, his plans, and our shared love of the New York Mets. Follow him on Instagram to see what he's getting up to. @ryanpcyr
And make sure to order your Limited Edition Table to Stage Tee today! bluecotton.com/campaigns/tabletostage
dance #theater #musical #creativity
Chris and Diane Ozmun are putting their creative efforts into new flavors and a unique barbeque experience with Oz'N Bones Barbeque. What began as a small catering outfit in 2017 is ramping up into a full size food truck where they will bring their custom take on Kansas City barbeque flavors out on the road. Chris and Diane invited me into their kitchen (should I tell you how amazing it smelled in there?) to talk about the creativity of flavor, their other creative projects together, and many other things. If you love barbeque you have to check out www.oznbonesbbq.com and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to find out when and where to catch the truck.
bbq #barbeque #oznbonesbbq #foodtruck #creativity
The Connecticut Festival of Indie Games started a few years and has grown rapidly. Jason Miceli is the force behind the CTFIG, and we spoke about the origins of the festival, his personal experiences with gaming, and the creative processes involved in building a new game experience for players. The resurgence of table top gaming was evident during our recording, as we were surrounded by gamers at the Tabletop Shop in Newington, Connecticut. If you are into games, collectibles, RPGs, or other related stuff, definitely check them out. Facebook.com/TabletopShopCT for more information.
For information on the CTFIG, visit www.ct-fig.com. The event runs as part of ConnectiCon July 12-15 in Hartford.
gaming #ctfig #connecticon #gamedesign #tabletop #rpg #boardgame #hobbies #gamer #dnd #magicthegathering
Tricia D'Onofrio has been performing stand-up comedy since late 2017, and is already involved in her own production company with plans for the future. We discussed how she got started, where she plans to go, and what her influences have been, among other things. You can follow her on Instagram @keylimepie4 and @taskychickscomedy to keep up on future show dates!
Tricia loves Middletown, Connecticut, so we met up at the New England Emporium Eatery & Marketplace on Main St. for the recording. It's a great spot to meet with friends and have a casual bite to eat. Check them out at www.newenglandemporium.com.
standupcomedy #comedy #standup #ctcomedy #tastychickscomedy #middletown #neemporium #newenglandemporium
Matt Daigle, creator and president of ConnectiCon, talks about the 2018 event which takes place July 12-15, 2018, in Hartford. This is the 16th year for ConnectiCon, the longest running pop culture con in the state. The weekend includes panels and signings with creators from several different areas, CosPlay contests, video games, and much more. For tickets and information about the event, visit www.connecticon.org.
Jim Williams has been working with Cirillo Summer Theater in Windsor for years, and this summer he will be directing Sweeney Todd: Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Auditions are June 4-5 and are open to anyone ages 14-25. For more information visit www.cirillosummertheater.com. Jim is also the co-host of Couch Grouches, a podcast that touches on fandom of all kinds. He is joined by Joe and Gonzo for some NSFW talk and the occasional rant. You can find them on Podbean, Facebook, Twiiter, and Instagram.
Jim Hetrick, Laurie Lee, and Matt Durland sit down to talk about their upcoming show, Elvis Has Left the Building. Podium Players Community Theater will present the show at Hope Church, East Hampton, Connecticut, from June 7-9, 2018. For tickets and more information visit www.podiumplayers.org or facebook.com/podiumplayers.
Joe Palladino is the guitarist and co-founding member of Dumb Love: A Tribute to Stone Temple Pilots, and the talent behind Studio 108 Music. He is also a long time friend. Our conversation focused on his new STP tribute project and his forray into music production, but we ended up down a bit of an STP rabbit hole. Dumb Love makes their public performance debut on May 26 at 7pm at Blueback Square in West Hartford - and it's FREE! If you'd like to learn more about the band or Joe's production studio you can visit www.dumbloveband.com or www.studio108music.com.
Heather Spiegel Auden, sometimes Heather Auden or Heather S. Auden, is a performer - theater, puppetry, voice acting, you name it. From the Renaissance Faire to a pirate ship on the Connecticut River, we talked about how she got started, where she's been, and where the need to perform is taking her. You can get more info about the Connecticut Renaissance Faire at facebook.com/ctfaire, Pompatoose Puppets at facebook.com/pompatoose, the North Pole Express at essexsteamtrain.com, and of course you can find some of Heather's audiobook performances at audible.com.
Jordan speaks with Pete Raber, owner of AJ's Comics in Colchester (www.ajscomics.com) and author of two novels. From Batman to archangels, we cover it all. (There have been some issues with the audio on this episode - bear with me as I learn how not to screw that up for future episodes. This is a re-uploaded version mixed to mono, so it should be an easier listen now.)
Jordan talks with Jesse Stanley about Live Action Role Playing and costume construction. The LARP community is large - and unless you've experienced it you probably have no idea it exists at all. LARPers are passionate, creative, and collaborative in their long-form, improvizational storytelling - acting, writing, building, these are just a few of the talents among those who participate.
Table to Stage is a podcast focused on creativity wherever it is found (provided it is found within the Connecticut area). I will be speaking with creators from all backgrounds - actors, comedians, photographers, educators, you name it!