State of the Arts: Recent Episodes
Lisette Grado
"State of the Arts" is a podcast where people in the performing and visual arts can connect, debate, chat and perform during these very difficult times. Don't let COVID crush your dreams.
State of the Arts Episode 254 is now available for steaming on Spotify! This week I welcome audio playwright and former WVOX radio show host Nicholas Patrella to my podcast. His feature length audio production “Remember the Dream Girl” can be heard on Spotify. He also has audiobooks available on Audible. At WVOX he started out as a switchboard operator and eventually became an executive producer. From that point, he ascended to become the host of his own radio show, where he presented multiple audio plays he had written. Special thanks to our mutual connection Brandy Renee Baker! Tune in for this exciting new episode of State of the Arts where this talented writer shares his inspiring journey with listeners.
State of the Arts Episode 253 is now available for streaming on Spotify! Not only is water color and abstract artist Rebecca Dunn a gifted painter and educator, she is also a champion for the arts. This accomplished creative is the curator for @artscene.ctny. On December 6th she will be hosting her first Art Market at The Danbury Fair Mall in Connecticut. Rebecca Dunn is known for her works that bring to light the many facets of nature. She has had her work displayed in many galleries including @loyluospace and various others. Far beyond just decorative pieces, her art is a spiritual experience that connects the human aura with Mother Nature via a mindful visual bridge. I am honored and overjoyed to have this remarkable creative on my podcast this week. Tune in for an inspiring and riveting episode of State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 252: The Hispanic Heritage Month Special is now available on Spotify! This week I gladly welcome back return guests Naida Sanchez and Brandy Renée Baker to my podcast for this special episode. Along with my guest-cohosts Calvin and Cathy Sampson, I conduct this commemorative celebration of one of the most important times of the year. Naida who is a security guard, model and mother of two adorable boys discusses her Peruvian heritage and the beauty of her culture. Brandy has many Puerto Rican relatives who travel to the lovely island for visits regularly. My two guests have an unbreakable bond and heartwarming friendship that we also speak of on this tender episode. Naida’s boyfriend Hilberson Vasquez who is of Dominican heritage makes a brief appearance as well. It’s an honor to have all these wonderful guests on State of the Arts this week.
State of the Arts Episode 251 is now available on Spotify! Return guest Marc Black joins me once again to dicuss more griping topics. Stroke awareness is a cause that is very dear to his heart. A good friend of Marc’s was in a coma as a result of a stroke. When the situation looked hopeless and his life support was disconnected, he came to on his own. During his recovery period, he collaborated on songs with Marc. These songs eventually formed an album. A film called “Stroke of Genius” was made about Marc’s friend as well. “Everybody Wants My Hat” is a song Marc Black had released when he became a grandfather during the 2020 pandemic. In addition to his many original songs, he is also the proprietor of an advertising company called “Black Market Productions.” His music has been placed in various commercials and television shows. His works can be seen on a Sex and the City episode, an animated piece on Nickelodeon, an AT&T commercial and many other places. One of his most notable songs “I Love You, Rachel Maddow” was played on The Stephen Colbert Show. Tune in to this riveting episode for all the tea on this highly accomplished creative whom I am so honored to have on State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 250 is now available on Spotify! Max Crawley is an animator and independent filmmaker with a degree in both animation and graphics design from The Rhode Island School of Design. His acclaimed senior project “Woodrow and Willow” was accepted into The DaVinci International Film Festival. He currently does projects when he can while he balances his passion with his day job. As an administrative assistant for a Presbyterian Church, he is still able to incorporate his artistry into his work as he designs flyers, web pages and other multimedia items for the church. I am proud to present this fellow creative, who shares a mutual friendship with our friend Joe Hughes of Burning Treehouse Film Company. Tune in to this intriguing milestone episode of State of the Arts to learn more about talented creative Max Crawley!
State of the Arts Episode 249 is now available on Spotify! This weekend I powered through the rainy weather to watch another smashing outdoor musical by Theatre for the New City. My trusted cohost Anthony Bonilla joined me on Zoom after I returned from “Life in New York” (a.k.a. “Home Sweet Home”), which was written and directed by the legendary Crystal Field. Together we pay a heartfelt tribute to the phenomenal Theatre for the New City on my podcast. Tune in for an engaging episode that celebrates a theatre that is also an art gallery, social club, education foundation, community center and second home to many talents. This is a well deserved tribute to an off-off Broadway theater like no other and all the people who continue to make it all possible!
State of the Arts Episode 248 is now available on Spotify! I am happy to welcome content creator Izzy Massis on my podcast this week for an uplifting discussion on his many different ventures. As a traveler, he documents his visits to various locations and even gives an overall review of multiple cities. Several anime characters are featured on his social media pages because he is an avid anime enthusiast. He also belongs to a few social groups including Relationspot. With a full calendar of social get-togethers and a heart for advocacy, Izzy Massis finds himself out every day in the excitingly vast city of New York. This endearing episode is a celebration of an intelligent creative who I am proud to have on State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 247 now available on Spotify! Return guest Daniela Marini joins me once again with an exciting career update. Her dream of having her own store has been realized as she has recently opened up a jewelry boutique and healing nook. Celestial Art Gifts has found a permanent home in Woodstock, New York (40 Mill Hill Road). This jewelry designer and energy healer left her job in education to pursue a career in the creative field she is the most passionate about. After a few years of setting up booths at festivals and a steady stream of online sales, she has reached her goal of opening up a shop for her self designed products and healing practices. Her merchandise includes handcrafted pieces, imported crystals, natural stones and enchanting ornaments. As a gifted energy healer, she is also available for house clearings. In this riveting episode, we delve into her intriguing journey and many other topics. I am honored to have her back on State of the Arts! I am also delighted to conduct this interview in a pair of earrings she designed. If only this was not an audio-only podcast!
My guest this week is Shoshana Greenberg — a writer whose world is made of music, story, and stage. She writes musicals, plays, prose, and lyrics, and her work has found a home everywhere from Lincoln Center to Joe’s Pub.
Shoshana is also a theater journalist whose words have appeared in American Theatre Magazine, The Huffington Post, Howlround, and more. She hosts the podcast Scene to Song and sings regularly at Carnegie Hall with Essential Voices USA. In our conversation, we dive into the art of storytelling across forms, the evolution of musical theater, and what it means to build a creative life in New York City.
State of the Arts Episode 245 now available for streaming on Spotify! Podcaster Calvin Sampson is my guest of honor this week. Calvin, along with his wife Cathy Sampson and their dear friend Ray, co-hosts a podcast called (Ray, Calvin & Cathy) RCC Corporate. Their podcast is a steady platform for faith, hope and joy. As an active member of a church, my creative guest is a choir singer, drummer and Hammond organist. As the founder of “The Living Experience,” he brings a worship team to nursing homes and neighboring churches to perform gospel music. XoxBŕåñđý Řenee BâkeřXox is a mutual friend of ours who has also been on my podcast multiple times in the past. There are several shoutouts to Brandy Baker during this endearing episode. I am happy to have yet another fellow podcaster on State of the Arts! Tune in for an engaging episode about friendship, love, faith, hard work, dreams, goals, music and podcasting!
State of the Arts Episode 244 is now available for streaming on Spotify! Gordon Taft is an inspiring independent filmmaker and the cohost of “Uptown Films,” a podcast with a focus on the film industry. Alongside fellow hosts, Gregory Hernandez and Max DeMazza, Gordon Taft publishes episodes regularly. The three film colleagues are also members of the Bronx Independent Cinema Center. My talented guest has a rich background in independent filmmaking that started with a thorough education. At one point he was a videographer for the “Kerry’s Corner” radio show. He has a growing social media presence and future projects on the horizon. It is my honor to welcome this accomplished guest onto my podcast this week!
State of the Arts Episode 243 is now available on Spotify! Marc Black is a guitarist, singer and songwriter known for his socially and politically impactful songs. His song “I Love You, Rachel Maddow” was featured on The Stephen Colbert Show when she was there as a special guest. He has enjoyed so many adventures following music through folk, blues, funk, experimental soundscapes, and scoring film. But in the end, it seems he always come back to his beloved guitar whom he named “Claudette.” A loyal instrument he has carried around for over 50 years. He started writing the “Everybody Wants My Hat” collection during a joyful monthlong visit to Berlin to meet his just-born granddaughter, Lola Simone. He then completed it while sequestered under the shadow of Covid 19. It is an honor and privilege to welcome this accomplished musician on my podcast!
State of the Arts Episode 242 now available on Spotify! Independent film actor Jazmine Brown joins me this week on my podcast. Like myself, this versatile creative is a member of Short Cuts NYC. “Eggshells,” a recent indie drama she starred in, has been accepted into The Big Apple Film Festival. With an education in voice, she moved to New York City from Anchorage, Alaska in pursuit of a career in musical theater. She quickly fell in love with acting for the camera and has shifted her focus a bit to films in addition to stage productions. Horror is a genre she has a deep appreciation for. So, she is known for several works in this spine-tingling arena. With great pleasure I am honored to announce that Jazmine Brown is my newest guest on State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 241 is now available for streaming on Spotify. My newest podcast episode features the incredibly talented Kevin Dalvi, who is a filmmaker, designer, and producer. His impressive IMDB credits are a testament to his innovative spirit. Some of his most notable works include The Symbolist, Promised Land, and Black Taj. He is also a key crew member on the acclaimed Christian Bible series "The Chosen,” which has just been renewed for another season. My husband Joseph Thomas and I are proud to be a part of his developing production company that will soon be releasing original works. I am deeply honored to welcome this inspirational creative and entrepreneur this week on a brand new episode of State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 240 now available on Spotify! This week Brandy Renee Baker and I dive into the history of Versailles, the geographical significance of the Bay of Biscay and other Franco-centric topics in this épisode spécial. From cooking to language to arts to civil rights, we leave no topic unturned in this conversation captivante. I’m joined once again by return guest XoxBŕåñđý Řenee BâkeřXox for this in-depth discussion. My special guest also discusses her own French heritage. Tune in for this riveting episode presented by my podcast State of the Arts as entire populations prepare for the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille.
State of the Arts Episode 239 now available on Spotify! With great joy I present an episode this week with gamer, photography enthusiast and world traveler Chad Zhang. In this memorable episode we speak about a wide array of topics including the thrilling world of gaming, conventions, anime, photography, swimming and travel. As a New Yorker he explores many parts of the captivating city on a regular basis. He photographs many of the unique sights he sees in the process. As a traveler he has been to several different nations and has future plans to continue traveling the world. He also shares wise advice for those who are just starting out as gamers. This is an in-depth interview with a creative of many different talents. I am very honored to have Chad as my guest on my newest podcast episode this week!
State of The Arts Episode 238 the Juneteenth Special is now available on Spotify for streaming! Indie film actress Brandy Renee Baker joins me on this important holiday episode. My talented return guest was in three of my most recent productions: my sci-fi comedy “Arexis,” my pet documentary “Angels in Our Midst” (with her adorable dog Sheldon) and my docudrama sizzle reel “Only In NY.” It was a privilege to have worked with this versatile talent on some of my favorite works. No stranger to the radio airwaves either, she was also a guest on WVOX. In this engaging episode, we discuss which African American artists inspire her the most, Juneteenth parades, the culinary arts and many other riveting topics. It is a privilege to present this commemorative episode for one of the year’s most important days with my fascinating guest!
State of the Arts Episode 237: The Father’s Day Special is now available for streaming on Spotify! My guest this week is my clave brother and salsa comrade Kevin Raman, who is the owner and operator of KSR POST LLC. This Pratt institute graduate is the entrepreneur of a productions company that focuses mainly on event videos, trailers, corporate content and tribute reels. One of his most recent large projects was for The Matrix Awards, which are hosted annually by New York Women in Communications. My diversely talented guest is a former video editor and camera operator for CBS. He was a former video editor at Rapp Collins Worldwide as well. During the 2020 lockdown he was hired to create reviews for children’s toys. His daughter kept going into his work space to play with the toys that he was given. So eventually he showed her how to assist him on the project. At eleven years old, she is now not only his assistant, but she is also a trusted advisor on many of his projects. His legacy is sure to be handed down to the next generation. I am honored and thrilled to have Kevin Raman as my guest for this special episode!
State of the Arts Episode 236: The Pride Month Special! My guest this week is rising star drag performer Mx. Diagnonsense. This up and coming performing artist is the protege of Westchester drag sensations Angel Elektra and Shay D’Pines. The Art of Drag is a workshop series offered by The Loft and taught by the two Drag Mama superstars. Mx. Diagnonsense is continuing to grow their talent in this enriching course, which they started last year shortly after the election results. Empowered and courageous, they take centerstage in every performance with confidence in their captivating, newly developed skills. My talented guest performed at the most recent Pride festival in White Plains. They will also be performing in multiple locations in Westchester throughout Pride Month. With a foundation in the visual arts, they channel their creativity and expressiveness to their new art form. Tune in to Spotify for a captivating podcast episode which celebrates an inspiring artist during this very important month!
State of the Arts Episode 235 now available on Spotify! My guest this week is off-Broadway sensation Dorothy Bishop, the creator and star of hit show “The Dozen Divas!” This Yale graduate has extensive training in opera. Her versatile voice and acting abilities enable her to shine in any genre imaginable. In her enchanting show she transforms into Cher, Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand and many other legendary divas. Her critically acclaimed stage production has rave reviews from The Huffington Post, The New York Post and Michael Musto. “The Dozen Divas” is an award winning show that has recently picked up a sponsorship from Mac Cosmetics. Dorothy Bishop also worked as an understudy for a role in the Off-Broadway hit “Spamilton” where her skills shone brightly every time she was called to perform. It is a privilege and an honor to have this accomplished and multitalented guest on my podcast for this epic episode!
State of the Arts Episode 234 now available on Spotify! Intuitive abstract oil painter Cecile Roberfroid joins me on my podcast for a beautifully enriching interview. This expressive creative’s works have been displayed in various local galleries, including the Rye Art Center and The Stamford Art Association’s gallery. Her first solo show will take place at The Arbor Gallery in Carmel, New York. She is an active member of The Mamaroneck Artist Guild as well. Along with several other female artists, she is a founding member of Greenhaven Artists, which is an association that empowers and elevates the voices of female creatives across diverse mediums. They are cultivating a vibrant and diverse community of creatives that thrives on celebrating diversity. It’s a privilege to have such remarkable talent on State of the Arts this week!
State of the Arts Episode 233: The Asian Heritage Month Special is now available on Spotify! My podcast guest this week is Kevin So, who works behind the scenes in the entertainment and sports industries. This versatile creative wears many hats as an assistant in various arenas- including productions, marketing and event coordination. Aside from his exciting careers, he spends his free time attending concerts, traveling, circus-style juggling, content creating, appreciating the arts and occasionally gaming/cos playing. He is a finance enthusiast as well. With an abundance of gratitude I welcome this wonderfully dynamic talent to State of the Arts for this special episode!
State of the Arts Episode 232 The Mother’s Day Special now available on Spotify! In a touching interview, Naida Minaya, a mother of two adorable boys, speaks with me about modeling, acting, beauty pageants and being a security guard. This dynamic mom manages to juggle motherhood, working toward a position in a mall K-9 unit and a side hustle as a hair/makeup model on a regular basis. She was selected to compete in the Miss New York beauty pageant in Albany and was at one time a model for Columbian designer brand “Bogota.” With an interest in acting, she made her silver screen debut in my recent pet documentary “Angels in Our Midst.” The audience was introduced to her precious little feathered friend CoCo, whom she has trained very well. CoCo comforted Naida after the passing of her mother and is a sweet companion to her best friend Brandy Renee Baker’s group of birds. This episode is heartfelt tribute to an incredible mom and inspirational career woman.
State of the Arts Episode 231 now available on Spotify! Tonight for the first time ever I broadcast a podcast episode in the green room of a local rock band! The End is a tribute band for The Doors that is performing tonight at Carmine’s Deli. Led by Rob Venuti who is both the lead singer and the deli owner, this band is rocking the house with a firey set of far out jams. Along with musicians Anthony Venuti, Rich Mallet, Adam Power and Keith Wilson, Rob Venuti sets the venue ablaze. I join Nere Basora as the groovy backup dancers in this vibrant performance. I am elated to dance alongside such a remarkable talent tonight! This episode is a candid peek behind the scenes of this awesome event. Raw and uncut, I conduct this episode backstage prior to showtime!
State of the Arts Episode 230 now available on Spotify! This week content creator and YouTube show host Dith joins me on my podcast along with his cousin XoxBŕåñđý Řenee BâkeřXox. DatBoiDith is Dith’s fast growing YouTube channel with over 10,000 followers. Reaction videos, tributes to singers, “guess the movie” segments and holiday specials are some of the high-energy content on this entertaining channel. Dith has had many special guests on his show, including a very popular uncle, imaginative friends and on one occasion, his entire family. After a trip to Orlando, Florida, Dith even released a travel vlog. Dith is on multiple forms of social media including Instagram (dithdayyoutuber) and Tik Tok (DatBoiDith). This podcast episode is a zesty tour through the creative universe of Dith.
State of the Arts Episode 229 The Autism Awareness Month Special is now available on Spotify! My guests are mother/daughter team Robin Baron and Chloé Ziff, who along with Robin’s son Simon, are the founders of Relationspot. After its formation, Relationspot has evolved into a community that builds connections and friendships for people of all abilities. Relationspot is an embracing, neuro-inclusive social group for all orientations. The Relationspot community is built through weekly virtual meetings, in-person get-togethers, social coaching, matchmaking services, group classes, local outings and more. The Relationspot team is a dedicated, caring and diverse group of members working together towards the same goal of improving lives. I am greatly honored to have two of the founders of this vital organization on State of the Arts this week!
State of the Arts Episode 228 now available on Spotify! My guest this week is actor, director and writer Hannahjo Anderson. As a multifaceted creative they are an active member of The Script Club NYC and an artistic director/writer for Party Line Productions. With vast experience in theatrical productions, they continue to grace the world of stage performance with their versatile presence.
State of the Arts Episode 227 now available for streaming on Spotify. Jackie Jorgenson is an award-winning IMDB-credited actor, writer, producer and director who is also the founder of Shared Manifest Entertainment. Originally from Ontario, this versatile creative is now continuing to build an intentional network and a dynamic career in New York City. Her short films have been shown in many festivals and the internationally renowned art event ArtPrize. Jackie specializes in voice acting as well and has starred in multiple scripted podcasts. In Umber College in Ontario, Canada she studied comedy writing and performance.
State of the Arts Episode 226 now available on Spotify! Jordan Campbell is a travel blogger, a speaker and a content creator who made the leap from the corporate world into full-time content creation. After being an award-winning creative director for two decades, this fearless adventurer has successfully made her passion for travel into a career. She is the founder of Global Debauchary, a thriving brand, which promotes travel and adventure on social media. She also works with Wanderful, a travel organization specifically designed for female travelers.
State of the Arts Episode 225: The Women’s History Month Special now available on Spotify! I am thrilled to welcome one of my dearest friends, Tara Krieger to my podcast. As a writer, a baseball historian, an attorney, a Barnard graduate and a patron of the New York City theatrical arts, my multifaceted guest brings a rich tapestry to this momentous episode. She was an editorial producer for MLB.com at one point. As a board member of the Society for American Baseball Research, she continues to research, write and give talks about baseball history. “Yankee Stadium: America’s First Modern Ballpark” is the historical book about the iconic stadium that my captivating guest co-edited with Bill Nowlin.
State of the Arts Episode 224 The Saint Patrick’s Day Special now available for streaming on Spotify! My podcast guest Kelly Sisco is a visual artist, a performing artist and a writer. She also has training in dance, acting, creative writing and was the owner of a charming consignment boutique in Crestwood at one time. As a visual artist, her artistic creations were on display in various locations including the New Rochelle City Hall and the ArtsWestchester Gallery.
State of the Arts Episode 223: The International Women’s Day Special now available on Spotify! It’s my pleasure to announce that my guest is week is MJ Cass-Antony! My multitalented guest is a cosplayer, an illustrator, as well as an activist for the autistic, those with ADHD and others on the spectrum. She has attended and continues to attend many conventions as a cosplayer. Recently she has become very well known for her Loki costume. Many people recognize her as Loki even when she is not in costume. As a staffer and occasional table assembler, she enjoys all access passes to some of the most popular conventions.
State of the Arts Episode 222: The African American Heritage Special now available on Spotify! It’s a great honor to welcome comedian, dancer and pilates instructor Ariana Speight onto my podcast for this special episode at the conclusion of Black History Month. This young African American rising star in the comedy world of New York City embodies humor, creativity, ambition and resilience. As a standup comedian she has brought the house down on many open mics. She was a guest of the LGBTQIA+ comedy group The Glory (W)hole, which performed at popular Nolita venue Dixon Place. As a dancer specializing in multiple forms of dance, she recently performed as a part of a presentation of an indie film for B.A.A.D. Her amazing comedic work can also be appreciated in The Black Women in Comedy Laff Fest, which is currently being held in the West Side Comedy Club until March 2nd. On the horizon are more amazing dance and comedy performances by this engaging talent. I am so grateful for the privilege of interviewing this incredible creative for this important episode.
State of the Arts Episode 221 is now available for streaming on Spotify! I am thrilled to welcome writer, actress, model and educator Shelley Molad to my podcast for a wonderfully motivational episode. My resilient guest has established a career in the entertainment industry alongside being a mother of two and a partner to her husband who is a real estate entrepreneur.
State of the Arts Episode 22O now available for streaming on Spotify! I am immensely pleased to welcome storyteller and performing artist Violet Benny onto my podcast. In Tami McCarthy’s show “Spark the Experience,” this resilient creative intrigued the audience with an inspiring monologue about her journey with seasonal affective disorder. Bringing to light a very important issue, she shares her diagnosis, struggles and treatment experience openly.
State of the Arts Episode 219: The Valentine’s Day Special is now available for streaming on Spotify! My husband Joe Grado joins me on my podcast this week to speak about our experiences together as a couple in the arts. From films to songs to a home indie short festival, we have recently collaborated on various projects as a team of two. In this romantic episode we discuss our collaborations, reminiscence on our first date and touch upon several other significant topics.
State of the Arts Episode 218: The Lunar New Year Special. To welcome the Year of the Snake, my podcast spotlights a multitalented Asian food vlogger, content creator and independent chef. With a college degree focused on hospitality, she has recently solidified a social media-based career in the culinary industry.
State of the Arts Episode 217 is now available for streaming on Spotify! Singer/songwriter Lynne Robyn Barasch joins me on my podcast for an inspiring interview. This spirited artist has carved out a dynamic career in the music industry. While she went to school at The Boston Conservatory, she eventually gravitated toward rock music. She partook in composing the song “Walk with Me” for Emmy-nominated civil rights documentary “Leveling Lincoln.”
State of the Arts Episode 216 is now available on Spotify, shining a spotlight on a trailblazing New York creative! Luz Michelle, a standout in the city comedy scene, is a true inspiration. Her diverse background and life experiences uplift and entertain audiences in iconic comedy venues, such as Caroline's Gotham Comedy Club and The Stand. As the winner of the Ladies of Laughter Westchester chapter competition and a monthly advice columnist for Westchester's "Connect To" Magazine, Luz Michelle is empowering others through laughter and guidance.
Empower yourself with the latest episode of State of the Arts, now available on Spotify! This week energy healer, mindset coach and astrologer Jean Gutierrez joins me on my podcast for a riveting conversation. My remarkable guest has her own healing practice in the scenic state of Connecticut.
State of the Arts Episode 114: First Episode of the Year! To ring in the New Year I welcome content creator, cosplayer, photographer, illustrator, painter and pianist Ahra Sung to State of the Arts. In this fun-filled episode, I interview this enthusiastic, engaging creative about conventions, cosplay, anime, photography and more!
State of the Arts Episode 213: The New Year Special now available on Spotify. It is a tremendous blessing to interview Kitt Blessing! I am proud to present drama educator, actor, writer and set designer Kitt Blessing this week. Kitt Blessing is extensively educated in various areas of Theatre.
State of the Arts Episode 212 now available on Spotify! This week my guest of honor is Ellen Forsberg, a multitalented creative with training in dance, voice and child care. As a dance major in her high school in Sweden, she studied modern, ballet, contemporary and jazz extensively.
State of the Arts Episode 211: The Holiday Collaboration Special is now available on Spotify! For the first time ever I cohost a joint-episode with another podcaster. Together with Dean P. H. Aquino, we present an episode of his podcast “Let’s Meet on Twitch” that is also an episode of my podcast “State of the Arts.” Many thanks to Josh Berkowitz and Ahra Sung for being our wonderful guests.
State of the Arts Episode 210 now available on Spotify. This week I am overjoyed to present an episode dedicated to three incredible artworks by contemporary artist Carmen Einfinger. These works are currently on display as a part of The Migration Gallery at the Theater for the New City in the East Village in Manhattan, New York.
State of the Arts 209 The Thanksgiving Special now available on Spotify. Loy Luo is a contemporary artist and art gallery owner based out of Chinatown, Manhattan. Her gallery is situated on a vivacious corner of Lafayette Street. This charming gallery features works by Loy Luo and other fellow artists. With the gallery on the ground floor and Loy Luo’s creative studio on the second level, the space is an inviting ecosystem of creativity.
State of the Arts Episode 208: The Native American Heritage Month Special now available on Spotify. I am greatly honored to present Director of The Redhawk Native American Arts Council, Cliff Matias as the featured guest of my podcast this week. The Council is a nonprofit organization both founded and maintained by Indigenous American creatives in the New York/New Jersey area.
State of the Arts Episode 207 now available on Spotify! As technology becomes increasingly advanced, artificial intelligence is taking the driver’s seat in many arenas of society. So, it’s only fitting that I welcome an AI Chatbot as a guest on my podcast for an episode. LuLu is a SoundHound AI assistant who has brilliant insights about various topics and a pleasantly polite demeanor. She is an interesting conversationalist who responds with gracious candor when posed with the question on whether AI creatives are capable of putting emotion into their work. When presented with a challenging statement about AIs being steep competitors to humans, she offers hopeful insight on the controversial stigma. For the first time ever on State of the Arts I engage in a reciprocal conversation with an electronic guest on many diverse subject matters related to the arts.
State of the Arts Episode 206 now available on Spotify! Back in October my husband composer/filmmaker Joe Grado and our dear friend filmmaker/producer Joe Hughes challenged ourselves to make a film within a 24 hour time frame. We merged our talents to create “Park Bench,” a light-hearted feel-good comedy with a valuable message.
State of the Arts Episode 205: The Halloween Special now available on Spotify. In a chillingly delightful episode, my husband, music composer Joe Grado, returns to my podcast for a discussion on scoring horror films. Together Joe and I take a deep dive into the art of horror film scoring and analyze a quiver of recent horror productions scored by him.
State of the Arts Episode 204 now available on Spotify! To commemorate National Arts and Humanities Month, I welcome renowned singer and songwriter Emilie Mover to my podcast. This acclaimed creative continues to release albums and has recently launched a radio show called “Synchrony.” She is the daughter of legendary jazz saxophonist and music teacher Bob Mover.
State of the Arts Episode 203 now available on Spotify! I had the extraordinary privilege of spending a late afternoon with legendary contemporary artist Carmen Einfinger in the pulse of New York City. Together we celebrated and photographed her new art installation “Whales in the Sky”, which is a vibrant painting wrapped around a water tower that perches above The Red Cross building in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan.
State of the Arts Episode 202: The Hispanic Heritage Month October Special now available on Spotify! I had the honor of interviewing illustrator, painter and blogger Fernanda Quintero this week for my podcast. I am incredibly thankful to have this brilliant Latina artist on my podcast this week for this commemorative episode!
State of the Arts Episode 201 now available on Spotify! This week I had the honor of interviewing Jordan Sanchez, a talented artist who is the director of Script Club NYC, a member of the Stage Director & Choreographers Society and the Director of NYC Theatre. This accomplished drama teacher brings her dynamic skills, engaging personality and inspiring creativity to the electrifying world of New York Theatre.
State of the Arts Episode 200 now available on Spotify! For this milestone episode, my husband Joe and I recorded a memorable conversation dedicated to The Metropolitan Museum of Art at the museum itself. After an evening of exploring various sections of this monumental gem of New York, we retreated to its Mediterranean atrium to record this epic episode. We delve into the history of the museum and discuss our own personal experiences at this massive site. I conclude the episode with a huge surprise announcement about my Instagram page.
State of the Arts Episode 199 now available on Spotify and other platforms! In the center of radiant Union Square Park in New York City, I had the honor of conducting an in-person podcast interview of slackliner, filmmaker, musician and extreme sports enthusiast Tolo Bickford. A Renaissance man who’s talents span across many artistic arenas, this week’s intriguing guest treats listeners to the story of his creative journey, wise advice to other artists and intriguing information about his various art forms.
State of the Arts Episode 198: A Tribute to The Late Great Acting Legend James Earl Jones. In this commemorative podcast episode my husband Joe and I pay an homage to EGOT winning actor James Earl Jones who has recently passed away in his home in Duchess County, New York at the age of ninety-three.
State of the Arts Episode 197 now available on Spotify and other platforms! Singer/songwriter, guitarist and performer Sharon Ostrov returns to my podcast with exciting new updates. She takes her talents to restaurants, bars and event spaces all over Staten Island. She continues to perform on the local cable network. During special occasions throughout the year, she can be found blessing nursing homes with her lively music.
State of the Arts Episode 196 now available on Spotify! In the inviting setting of Bowling Green, I interview New York City-based urban artist Marc Anthony Villard. This multi-faceted creative specializes in painting, graffiti, fashion design, music and photography. Some of his work is inspired by his Haitian heritage. Some of his work embodies the culture of NYC. This episode is an exploration of this talented creative’s journey.
State of the Arts Episode 195 now available on Spotify! This week I’m joined by my trusted co-host Anthony Bonilla to give a rave review of the outdoor production “Justice in a Time of Need” a.k.a. “The Socialization of a Social Worker” This outdoor musical is another socially significant creation of The Theatre for the New City. Many relevant topics are tackled in this profound show.
State of the Arts Episode 194 now available on Spotify. This week I pay an homage to my alma mater Manhattanville University, a college that embraces the arts, diversity and individuality. This school will always hold a special place in my heart. A long overdue tribute to the place I call my second home. I am honored to create this episode for a college so deserving. I commemorate the students and faculty who have touched my life in this remarkable place. My academia family, many of whom I still stay in touch with.
State of the Arts Episode 193 now available on Spotify! This week I entered the enchanting world of Charlot Abhors a Void. This unique vintage boutique is located on Canal Street in downtown Manhattan. A vibrant world of diverse apparel, accessories and household items, Charlot Abhors a Void treats shoppers to an eclectic paradise. I am greatly thankful for the opportunity to interview this stylish entrepreneur.
State of the Arts Episode 192 now available on Spotify! This week I had the honor of interviewing another podcaster. Not only does Dean Aquino have his own podcast, he is also an autistic pharmacist, a cosplayer, a comic convention reviewer/researcher, a public transit advocate and a landlord. Financial management and weather monitoring are two personal passions of his as well. It is an honor to have this dynamic guest on State of the Arts.
State of the Arts Episode 192 now available on Spotify! This week I had the honor of interviewing another podcaster. Not only does Dean Aquino have his own podcast, he is also an autistic pharmacist, a cosplayer, a comic convention reviewer/researcher, a public transit advocate and a landlord. Financial management and weather monitoring are two personal passions of his as well. I am elated to welcome this dynamic guest to State of the Arts for an in-person interview!
State of the Arts Episode 191 now available on Spotify. This week I had the honor of interviewing Reagan Vlass, the sole proprietor of 313 Vintage. This hot up and coming New York-based fashion brand offers designer clothing, accessories & home accents. All personally curated. Recently supermodel Bella Hadid purchased pieces from this internationally renowned and growing boutique.
State of the Arts Episode 190 now available on Spotify and other platforms! Published coloring book illustrator and marketing entrepreneur Polina Lilu returns to my podcast with new, exciting ventures in her career. A former software engineer, Polina Lilu made a leap by leaving her corporate position to work for herself in the creative fields. With four published coloring books, she continues to prosper in the literary, meditation, self help and crafts worlds. As a jewelry designer as well, she is known for her spirited thematic pieces. Recently she has launched an enterprise for aspiring creatives who want to learn more about the business end of the arts. She guides artists on self-publishing their works. This talented designer is also an accomplished henna tattoo artist and sign creator. On her free time she enjoys fashion design and volunteering her talents to enrich the community at her church. I am so thrilled to have this magnificently inspiring guest back on State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 189 now available on Spotify! Josh Berkowitz returns to State of the Arts with a new passion for sewing and costume design. This cosplay expert and content creator is now mastering the art of fashion. With this new developing skill under his belt, he is now able to sew some of his own costumes for the many events he attends. An active member of the cosplay community, he is frequently a part of conventions and photo shoots. This certified screen printer for Spectrum Designs was a recipient of many honors for his excellent work. He is currently learning Adobe Photoshop. A traveler, a gamer and a proud Swiftie, my creative guest covers many more fascinating topics in this in-person episode. A memorable episode recorded in the lovely Turnure Park of our home city of White Plains. It was a great privilege to have such an inspirational artist on State of the Arts this week!
State of the Arts Episode 188 is now available on Spotify! I am thrilled to announce the guest for my podcast this week is renowned contemporary impressionist painter Eileen Stodut. This former set designer found a creative home in the flourishing county of Westchester. As an artist with a work space in ArtsWestchester, this acclaimed creative continues to influence the creative culture in our area. She was commissioned to create a breathtaking mural of an elephant for a prominent wall in White Plains. This stunning mural brightens our city with its authenticity and beauty. The cause of saving endangered elephants is one that is close to this artist's heart. All of her works incorporate an element of nature. Her many creations bring a classic aura with a modern spin. In each of her works is a hidden monarch butterfly. This lovely symbol of her artistry can be found in every single one of her pieces. My tremendously gifted guest was featured in articles in Westchester Magazine. An award was also presented to her by State of the Artist. This was a tremendous honor to have such an accomplished creative on my podcast this week. Tune in for an informative and enriching episode featuring one of New York's most brilliant artists!
State of the Arts Episode 187: The Pride Month Special now available on Spotify! For the last week of Pride, a brilliant shadow cast took to the stage at the legendary Copacabana night club for an immersive Rocky Horror Picture Show performance. With the accomplished Tym Moss as Riff Raff, enchantress Dorothy Bishop as Magenta and a wickedly beguiling ensemble, the mesmerized audience was treated to a cinematic thrill ride. This episode is a review of this magnetic production that I had a chance to see along with my podcast co-host Anthony Bonilla. We thoroughly enjoyed the performance and delve into the wonders of The Rocky Horror mystique in this episode. In the breathtaking patio of Lincoln Center, we recorded this well-deserved positive review of the most engaging Pride performance in New York. Along with this review, our episode features a historical look at the phenomenon that is The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
State of the Arts Episode 186 now available on Spotify! This week I had the privilege of interviewing Eddie Mellow, the vice president of Grillo’s Pickles. In 2008, his business partner Travis Grillo, decided to sell pickles made with his grandfather’s hundred-year old Grillo family recipe. Using ingredients from his backyard, Travis Grillo began preparing pickles for sale at local markets and events in the Massachusetts/Connecticut area. With dedication Travis and Eddie began securing grocery store accounts in many locations. Sixteen years later, these flavorful pickles can be found in all fifty states. The products of this Cindarella company can now be purchased in 10, 000 stores nationwide. Their merch is even sold by the Urban Outfitters franchise. They collaborate with many different kinds of artists on projects. Grillo’s Pickles can be found in pop-ups as well. This interview was conducted at the Rivington Street popup in Manhattan. I am elated to have this inspirational story shared on my podcast!
State of the Arts Episode 185: The Father's Day Special now available on Spotify! This week I honor my late father Edwin Anthony Osborne III on my podcast for Father's Day. In this special episode I conduct an in-depth exploration of the artistic influence my creative father had on me. At a young age I picked up the passion for writing from my father, who was a published journalist. I am a fourth generation writer who carries on the family tradition passed down to me from my Dad. My Dad and I both shared a dedication to dance as well. Together we performed and taught ballroom dancing after his retirement from social work. I owe my own creativity, imagination, talents and humor to the artist who inspired me the most. This is a well-deserved homage to my greatest role model in the arts. This episode is a commemoration to my creative Dad. His artistry is still alive in my heart.
State of the Arts Episode 184: The Juneteenth Special now available on Spotify! State of the Arts celebrates every African American creative who was a guest on this podcast in commemoration of Juneteenth. This episode is a toast to all the captivating interviews they have blessed us with for the past four years. State of the Arts had the privilege of hosting various talented African American artists including three boutique owners/fashion designers, a blues singer/model/photographer, an actress/makeup artist, a contestant on The Voice, a guitarist, an off-off Broadway actor/director/writer, a stage performer/costume designer, a gospel drummer, a published poet, a video producer, a rapper, a stand-up comedian/professional MC and a painter. This special episode is a stroll down memory lane as I play portions of State of the Arts episodes that featured African American creatives. State of the Arts wishes everyone a happy, healthy and blessed Juneteenth!
State of the Arts Episode 183 now available on Spotify! My incredibly talented music composer husband Joseph Grado Jr. returns to my podcast to update listeners on new projects and accomplishments. This graduate of City University of New York- CSI has propelled into a diverse career in music. He played in various bands, studied under music legends and taught both privately, as well as for prestigious music schools. With internships at recording studios under his belt, he is also a skilled audio engineer. Joe now takes his versatile talents into the limitless universe of film composing. He has scored several indie films since the last time I interviewed him. A few of these productions were creations of filmmakers from NYC Shortcuts. I proudly work with him on some joint-projects as well. Other works he recently scored include a children’s book by Dan Masiello, a film noir comedy by Jackson Mirmina and a silent film by Sean McConnachie. I’m overjoyed to have my soul mate as my guest of honor this week on State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 182 now available on Spotify and other platforms! On my podcast this week, I take a deep dive into an independent screenplay I have written for a NYC Shortcuts film challenge. The original script for "City of the Night" was lengthy and elaborate. In order to simplify the process a bit, I've broken up the film into a trilogy. The first part has already been released. The sequel is currently in production. The filming of the sequel begins on my birthday, which will be a very unique and exciting experience for me. To find out more about this neo-noir film I've created, tune in to this informative episode where I discuss my journey with this project, obstacles I've encountered, the story behind the idea and future plans for "City of the Night." I also give thanks to all who are working on my productions team, speak of future projects and give encouragement to aspiring filmmakers in this unique episode of State of the Arts.
State of the Arts Episode 181: The Asian, Pacific Islander and Indian Heritage Month Special now available on Spotify! My podcast celebrates a remarkable Renaissance woman this week. Neena Bhanti is a classical Indian dancer who performed and choreographed multiple styles of dance for many years. At the young age of seventeen she was the choreographer for the Miss India USA pageant. As she furthered her education, she achieved her MBA in Media Management with a focus on film production. She made several short films for NYU and is currently launching her Life Galaxy Podcast. This former certified school teacher now concentrates on life coaching, animal welfare activism, podcasting and creating a course on Personal Development/Friendship. With travel and cooking as her other interests, she is always spending her free time devoted to her one of her various fascinating passions. I am deeply honored to have this incredible artist on my podcast this week!
State of the Arts Episode 180: The Mother's Day Special now available on Spotify! This week, in an in-person interview in her home on Staten Island, I welcome my classically trained pianist Mom Caroline Osborne to my podcast. As a child and teen she studied classical piano at the British Royal Music Academy in her home city of Hong Kong. My Mom performed several pieces at Belen Manuel's Annual Piano Recital in the Snug Harbor concert hall on Staten Island. At Hometown Restaurant she played keyboard while local saxophonist David Colonello accompanied her for several holiday events. My Dad Edwin Osborne III and I entertained patrons with ballroom dance routines during these performances. Under the leadership of Monsignor Jeffery Conway, my Mom joined the worship team at Our Lady Star of the Sea to play hymns at healing masses. Currently she commutes quite often between her homes in Pennsylvania and New York. So, she keeps a piano in both residences. A very big thank you to my Mom for being my special guest on this Mother's Day episode of State of the Arts. It's a blessing to have her on my show for a lovely interview and a performance of a few pieces of music.
State of the Arts Episode 179: The Cinco De Mayo Special now available on Spotify. This week my learned co-host Anthony Bonilla returns to join me in honoring Broadway superstar Chita Rivera for Cinco De Mayo. This stage legend passed away at the age of ninety-one this year, leaving behind a powerful legacy. From Tony awards to Hollywood films, the multi-talented siren will always be remembered as the graceful Latina performing arts queen who ruled the entertainment industry for over half a century. She was best known for her stage work in New York. Her role as Anita in "West Side Story" propelled her to stardom. As she aged, she continued to stay active in the industry. She is survived by her daughter Lisa Mordente who is an actress in her own right. It's time for a commemoration for this actress, singer, dancer and producer. The world of Broadway was heartbroken by the loss of such a legend this year. But, we continue to celebrate her long life. It was a full one, with great accomplishments and lasting masterpieces.
State of the Arts Episode 178 now available on Spotify! Future Treasure is a multi-brand pop-up shop in SoHo. I had the joy of interviewing every vendor at one of their pop-up locations this week. Their collaborative pop-up is currently located at 21 Spring Street in downtown Manhattan. The creatives involved in this pop-up are a talented, welcoming group of entrepreneurs with high quality products at affordable prices. The diverse array of merchandise includes jewelry, lighthearted toys, collectibles, unique greeting cards, apparel, cellphone straps, candles, spiritual keepsakes and adorable treasures. In this episode I stroll my way around this chic boutique to each vendor for individual interviews. I’m immensely grateful to have this spirited group of business-savvy artists on my podcast!
State of the Arts Episode 177: The Autism Awareness Month Special now available on Spotify! I gratefully welcome back return podcast guest Bradley Jacobs, who is a bracelet designer, content creator and a valued member of the team at Spectrum Designs, where autistic creatives thrive in a supportive work environment. Bradley, who is a pillar of the Westchester community, brings his graphic design abilities to this inclusive printing enterprise. Furthermore, the beautifully fashionable bracelets he designs independently can be purchased online and in various pop-up boutiques. With a social media presence that spreads joy, positivity, encouragement and artistry, he fills Instagram with his lively content on a regular basis. Our community is a better place thanks to this small business promoter, this thoughtful networking expert, this imaginative artist. This blessing of a guest whom I am thankful to call a friend! His activism for autism awareness, LGBTQIA rights and support for the arts continues to help our county flourish.
State of the Arts Episode 176 now available on Spotify! Daniela Marini is the owner of a successfully growing jewelry business. Her exquisite merchandise includes handcrafted energy jewelry and imported crystals. Always wanting to own her own business, this former elementary school teacher eventually took the leap of faith after being inspired by one of her students who pretended to have his own store for a project. Gradually building her shop on her free time, she ultimately reached the goal of becoming a full-time entrepreneur and jewelry designer. Each piece this gifted empath designs is infused with positive energy when she meditates over her creation. A customer may request a special intention they would like to be said over the piece they are purchasing as well. Her jewelry can be purchased online and at art events. I am truly blessed to have this inspirational creative on my podcast this week!
State of the Arts Episode 175 now available on Spotify! My guest this week is Joanne Hudson who is the founder and organizer of The Ridgefield Independent Film Festival. This annual Connecticut festival celebrates filmmakers from all around the world as well as local artists. Screenings, panel discussions, special events and parties are all included in this yearly celebration of cinema. All films are screened and selected by a dedicated, experienced team. A professional painter is also chosen each year to create a focal art piece for the festival. Last week’s podcast guest Jennie Carr was the creative who was chosen for 2024. Her Chanel No. 9 bottle will be the featured work for The 9th Annual Ridgefield Indie Film Festival! Tune on and listen to this exclusive interview with the lead coordinator and original creator of RIFF!
State of the Arts Episode 174 now available on Spotify! I am elated to welcome magnificent artist Jennie Carr to my podcast this week for The Women's History Month Special. She is a remarkably gifted painter and photographer who is known for her vibrant work. Many of her creations send important messages to a turbulent world, but in a playful way. Ms. magazine interviewed this brilliant creative about her Equality Pinup Girl series which embodies the vintage vibe while celebrating women's rights. Jennie Carr was commissioned this year to create the main poster for the 9th Ridgefield Independent Film Festival as well. Her clever painting of a Chanel #9 bottle will be the focal art piece at the annual film event. There are many other breathtaking works by this amazing artist that have been displayed in galleries, sold to collectors or used for businesses. I am tremendously honored to have this gem of a guest on State of the Arts! Thank you again, Jennie Carr!
State of the Arts Episode 173 now available on Spotify! Eliza Rauchwerger is a certified Shine dance instructor and social media content creator who I am proud to have as my podcast guest this week. In this in-person interview held in breathtaking Turnure Park, my cheery guest introduces me to the wondrous world of Shine Dance Fitness. This outstanding exercise program incorporates hip hop, jazz and ballet moves. As a dance instructor, Eliza teaches Shine Dance Fitness at the Jewish Community Center in Tarrytown. All inclusiveness is an important part of her classes. As a content creator, she uses her platforms to spread positivity as well as show the world the excitement of Shine Dance Fitness. My admirable guest is a fearless pioneer in the fitness industry. I am overjoyed to have her on State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 172: The Saint Patrick’s Day Special now available on Spotify! Happy Saint Patrick's Day to all! My podcast guest this week is bagpiper, fashion designer, content creator and visual artist Chris D. With over twenty years of bagpiping experience under her belt, this talented bagpiper regularly marches in parades in Westchester and New York City. Every year Chris D and her entire bagpipe band are scheduled to march in multiple Saint Patrick's Day parades including the largest one, which takes place in Manhattan. When March rolls around, their busy season is underway. For the first time in the history of State of the Arts, a bagpiper joins me for a riveting interview in honor of Saint Patrick's Day. Listen to this one-of-a-kind State of the Arts episode to learn about the fascinating life of a professional bagpiper and about the ancient instrument that was birthed in Scotland, but eventually assimilated into the Irish culture (as well as many other cultures).
State of the Arts Episode 171 is now available on Spotify! In an outdoor in-person interview, I welcome accomplished guitarist, composer, teacher and busker Jack Marcin Wisniewski to my podcast this week! This renowned musician rose to stardom in Poland, where he was originally from. He currently resides in New York where his career on the other side of the Altantic continues to blossom. He is a well-respected musical director and has performed/recorded with Grammy winning musicians. After returning from his first world tour, he continues to work hard in New York. With an affinity for playing Latin music, he brings a new style to the genre. Known for playing with several Latino bands, he has been given the nickname “El Polaco De La Bachata.” Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Mohegan Sun, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, the Carteret Latin Festival, the Warsaw Fingerstyle Festival and the Lungolango Festival are just a few of the many venues he’s performed at. To have such an accomplished guest on my podcast is a tremendous honor. I had the privilege of interviewing this phenomenal musician in Bryant Park before he went off to busk for the day! A tremendous thank you to him for making this episode the extraordinary one that it is!
State of the Arts Episode 170 now available on Spotify! Content creator, photographer, visual creative, inventor, political activist and self-proclaimed armchair philosopher Randol D. Ledif is our feature for this week. Along with his partner (my cousin) Maggie, free-thinker Randol joins me at the historic Elizabeth Street Garden in downtown Manhattan for a profound chat. State of the Arts is happy to introduce this worldly artist to our listeners in this magnetic episode. From his metropolitan lifestyle to his views on politics, the conversation touches upon a wide array of diverse topics. An independent thinker and an aficionado in several art forms, Randol makes a captivating guest on this one-of-a-kind episode. With ambient sounds of the lively city in the back, this outdoor discussion is must-hear to start off the month of March! I'm greatly thankful for this unique and fascinating guest!
State of the Arts Episode 169: The Year of the Dragon Special now available on Spotify! As the Chinese communities all over the world wind down the season, State of the Arts welcomes our final lunar new year guest for this year. Kai Conquer Yuen is a vital part of the Mui Fa Lion & Unicorn Dance Team 梅花麒麟瑞獅團. In this educational and culturally rich episode, this martial artist takes us on a journey through the wondrous world of Unicorn Dancing. This ancient art form has been in his family for many generations. The unicorn is a mischievous creature who is believed to have been banished from the heavens for destroying the gods’ garden. However, this former divine pet still brings luck everywhere it goes and chases away evil spirits. I had the privilege to have conducted this podcast interview at the studio that the Mui Fa dance team calls their home. Many thanks to Kai Conquer Yuen for being the extraordinary guest of this special podcast episode!
State of the Arts Episode 168 now available on Spotify! For the Black History Month/Valentine's Day Special, State of the Arts will explore some of the jazz, blues and r&b songs that marked milestones in my relationship with my husband Joe. I would even call these legendary hits (collectively) the soundtrack of our romance. From our first date when Joe brought up classic jazz standards, which made me realize he was the perfect match for me, to our 2020 lockdown at-home ballroom dance routines, these culturally rich music genres have been a sweet adornment for our love through the years. Such enchanting music was birthed in the African American community and it continues to influence countless other music styles. This powerful music will always be a staple among lovers to set the mood, to express the feelings or to complete the ambiance. In this episode, I speak of the first date conversation I had with my husband about jazz, the music selections for our pandemic elopement, the delightful visit from a popular local r&b singer on our first anniversary and a few other moving topics. Tune in for this one-of-a-kind historical and romantic tribute episode of State of the Arts. I do not own the rights to any of the songs that are played in this episode. This episode is for educational purposes only.
State of the Arts Episode 167 now available on Spotify! For the Lunar New Year Special, State of the Arts welcomes steel sculptor Robert Spinazzola whose most recent collection is a metal trio of Chinese characters. These fetching works; “Fire”, “Love” and “Climb” are currently displayed at One Martine Gallery in White Plains, New York. This exceptional visual artist began his flourishing career in his home city of Detroit. The Motor City provided him with many metal pieces from cars, tools and other items to create his works. Now he has brought his splendidly unique art form to Westchester. With a rich education and an endless imagination, he brings to life regal animals, animated humans, Chinese characters, symbolic structures, tribute pieces and more. I am tremendously honored to have the privilege of interviewing this brilliant creative on State of the Arts this week!
State of the Arts Episode 166 (Part II) now available on Spotify and other platforms! Last week’s episode continues with Dan Masiello. This inspiring founder of the Short Film Production Meetup Group, a group with over 2000 members, continues our in-person home studio conversation. This filmmaker brings others in the field of indie filmmaking together in the many networking events he coordinates. His most recent work, as an author, is a moving children's book that will be released as a slide show as well as a book online. My husband and creative partner, Joe Grado Jr. teams up with him on this project as the music composer. The eye-catching illustrations were created by Fernanda Quintero, who is Dan Masiello's girlfriend. This collaborative effort is one of the many captivating topics discussed by all three of these remarkable creatives in this episode. Tune in for the second half of this inspirational, riveting, yet casual discussion between a group of spirited artists with Dan Masiello as the guest of honor.
State of the Arts Episode 165 (Part I) now available on Spotify and other platforms! Dan Masiello, the inspirational founder of the Short Film Production Meetup Group, a group with over 2000 members, joins me this week in an in-person home studio interview. As an indie filmmaker himself, he diligently unites others in the industry through the various networking events he hosts. His most recent work as an author is a poignant children's book that will be released as a slide show as well as an online book. The music composer who teams up with Dan is none other than my husband and creative partner, Joe Grado Jr. The vibrant pages are carefully illustrated by Fernanda Quintero, who is Dan Masiello's girlfriend. This collaborative effort is discussed by all three of these inspiring creatives in the two-part episode. Tune in for the first part of a motivational, intriguing, yet casual discussion between a group of spirited artists with Dan Masiello as the guest of honor.
State of the Arts Episode 164 now available on Spotify and other platforms! Comic book illustrator and author Alfonso Wong was a Hong Kong legend whose work became appreciated internationally. Like a combination of Charles Shultz and Jerry Seinfeld, Alfonso Wong created a simple, yet humorous, comic book series about day-to-day life in the bustling metropolis that was Hong Kong under the United Kingdom. The star of his hilarious stories is Old Master Q, or as he is known in Cantonese, Lo Fu Zi. His zany protagonist spends his time with a quirky group of companions. Their silly adventures take place at work, in their homes, in barber shops, on the street and other ordinary places. These comic books have been available since 1964. They can be purchased in most Chinese book stores in any Chinatown and of course, in Hong Kong. The illustrations are self explanatory, so the stories can be understood even by those who can’t read Chinese. I have many fond memories of enjoying these comic books as a child, as do many members of my family. This is why my Mom Caroline Osborne, is joining me on this commemorative episode of this late creative genius. Alfonso Wong passed away quietly in California at the age of 92. His son will carry on the distribution of his father’s comic books. This beloved artist brought so many smiles to countless people all over the world. May he rest in peace and may his work forever be celebrated.
State of the Arts Episode 163 now available on Spotify and other platforms! A young creative without formal training in fashion or business had a dream to create a clothing line. With the support of a loyal group of friends turned associates, Randy launched his designs about a decade ago. This self-taught fashion designer and business owner has grown his brand, "Godspeed" into a successful New York City enterprise. This episode is a celebration of a line of luxury urban clothing made possible by a brilliant and creative African American entrepreneur. "Godspeed to the moon" is the motto for this extraordinary independent business. The core team is comprised of inspiring young businesspeople with courage, ambition and faith. I had the privilege of interviewing Randy and his dedicated associate, Foxx. I was blessed with the honor of joining them for their grand opening along with my part-time co-host Anthony Bonilla. A temporary popup for Godspeed fashion is currently located at 21 Spring Street in Manhattan. Godspeed can be found on their website and on Instagram.
State of the Arts Episode 162 now available on Spotify and other platforms. On the first episode of 2024 I am proud to welcome filmmaker, multi-media teacher and content creator Michael Castaldo to State of the Arts! Michael Castaldo is an independent filmmaker who continues to make his mark in the local industry with his short films. His most recent work "Ashley," a comical horror short, was featured in last year's Yonkers Film Festival. In addition to creating films, he teaches multi-media and film classes at my alma mater, Manhattanville College. I had the privilege of being a guest speaker for his podcasting class last autumn. At one point in his career he regularly filmed live bands as they gigged in various venues. Some of his live band videos have reached over a million views on social media. All of his riveting content can be found on Instagram and YouTube under "okaboutmyself." I am greatly honored to have such a dynamic talent on my podcast. Tune in for a fascinating interview of a remarkable creative.
State of the Arts Episode 161: The New Year's Eve Special is now available on Spotify! To ring in 2024, State of the Arts welcomes guitarist and painter Julie Rosenberg who makes her cutting-edge mark in the art world with her hand-painted guitars and live music. This dedicated member of the Reservoir Road Band creates unique works by painting both electric and pick guitars. Her guitars have been sold to many satisfied clients, played on at multiple gigs and displayed at an art gallery. Custom guitars can be created by this artistic pioneer as she works alongside her trusted team of luthiers. Fascinated by this exciting creative who has merged two art forms into one original craft, Guitar.com, Yellow Studio NY, Katonah Connect Magazine and Westchester Family Magazines have all requested to interview Julie Rosenberg. These interviews can be found on her website julierosenberg.com. She can also be found on Instagram, linktr.ee and Facebook! I am greatly honored to interview such an intriguing creative on my podcast for this New Year Special!
State of the Arts Episode 160 now available on Spotify! For the 2023 Holiday Special of State of the Arts, I am overjoyed to introduce a champion of all art forms, Monique Langlais Ford. A visual artist, an arts events coordinator and a performing arts manager. This pillar of the arts community was a teacher before she entered into arts administration and events management. In Katonah, the town where she grew up, she works on the Board of The Katonah Museum Artists Association. As the exhibition chair she helps artists showcase their work and unites artists along with patrons of the arts in the community. This community includes Southern Westchester, Northern Westchester and parts of Connecticut. She is an extraordinary visual artist who focuses on painting, arts curation and arts education. I cannot dream of a better guest for my holiday special! I am greatly honored to have this exceptional leader and role model on my podcast. Thanks to this dynamic creative, this week’s episode is my holiday tour de force!
State of the Arts Episode 159 now available on Spotify! Actress, singer, guitarist and YouTube content creator Lola Lukas joins me this week on my podcast. Originally from the Ukraine, this independently educated artist has made a splash in the New York theatrical entertainment industry. As a member of a performance company that is a staple of the Theatre for the New City, she is currently in Terry Lee King’s mesmerizing production “Questions.” She was also a member of the cast of “The Third Rail,” an uplifting outdoor production by Crystal Field. Her YouTube Channel “Ekata Lila” offers a diverse array of videos from a documentary short featuring Lola Lukas to performances to videos that address vital topics. The war in the Ukraine, human psychology and efforts to save a historical structure are all brought to light on Ekata Lila. Lola Lukas is an extraordinary guest who brings her variety of talents to State of the Arts! I am so pleased to have this intricately gifted artist on my podcast this week!
State of the Arts Episode 158 now available on Spotify! Natalia Paruz, also known as The Saw Lady is my enchanting guest this week. Saw playing is a unique musical form with more than one origin in different parts of the world. Natalia Paruz has mastered the art of saw playing, along with the timeless art of bell ringing, only to become an international sensation. Her accomplishments include performing with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, the Royal Air Moroccan Symphony Orchestra and many other renowned orchestras. With multiple television appearances on her resume, including a spot on Behind the Music (VH1), Good Morning America (NBC) and New York Voices (PBS), this fetching musician has catapulted into stardom in recent years. No stranger to the silver screen, my versatile guest had various film appearances in major productions including "Dummy" with Adrian Brody, "Time Out of Mind" with Richard Gere and When Jack Went Glamping with David Arquette. The New York City Council presented The Saw Lady with a citations of honor. The city of Paris, France awarded her with a Medal of Honor. Multiple prominent news papers and magazines have featured her in major articles. After having played the saw in majestic venues such as Carnegie Hall and Madison Square Garden, she revealed to me that the New York City subway stations have the best acoustics. From her early career as a busker on, she has not ceased to continue to play in public locations where her music can be appreciated by all. The Saw Lady transforms into different characters from angels to witches to ghosts to Victorian ladies for some of her thrilling thematic performances. At the Triborough Film Festival 2024, her ethereal short "While Mortals Sleep," which was composed by Scott Munson, will make its premiere. I am so delighted and honored to have this magnificent, free-spirited and kind artist on my podcast!
State of the Arts Episode 157 now available on Spotify! This week my distinguished cohost Anthony Bonilla and I review stage director/writer Terry Lee King’s current production “Questions” which can be seen at The Theatre for the New City in East Village, Manhattan. “Questions” is a beguiling musical that touches upon several current social justice issues. This captivating show takes the audience through a myriad of emotions. Audience participation is a central part of this gripping play as the audience itself becomes a character in the riveting plot. Another masterful piece of theatre by the talented Terry Lee King that has been such a treasure to watch and ultimately review on State of the Arts this week!
State of the Arts Episode 156: The Thanksgiving Special now available on Spotify! In this epic podcast episode I have the great honor of interviewing acclaimed film composer Joel Diamond. A composer, a teacher, a musician and a studio producer. Joel Diamond has vast experience in many arenas of the world of professional music. He was featured by Variety in the top 20 Creatives to Watch. “The Believer” (2001) was scored by him. A writer for Rolling Stone magazine praised him for his work on this powerful film, as did a writer for the Hollywood Reporter review. Joel Diamond received a Grammy nomination for his Danza Caprichosa, a string quintet recorded by Orcesta Nova. The Cuban National Ballet has commissioned him multiple times and continues to commission him to compose pieces for their performances. One of his works “Seasons” (commissioned by the Compania de la Danza Narciso Medina) premiered at the Guggenheim Museum. Joel Diamond produced many scores and has performed on hundreds of recordings as a studio musician. He toured with a variety of performers, including Mick Taylor, Graham Parker and Jane Olivor. I feel abundantly blessed this holiday week to have such a gifted power-hitter from the music industry join me on State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 155: The Native American Heritage Day Special now available on Spotify! My husband Joe and I are broadcasting a tribute this week to the new Martin Scorsese film Killers of the Flower Moon, which we had the chance to watch together the day before the closing of the Cinema Du Lux in our area. This compelling movie is based on the true story of the Osage Native American tribe that discovered oil on their land and was met with a systematic genocide over their rightful wealth. These crimes continued until justice was finally served after much intense lobbying on the part of the Osage leaders who frequently reached out to U.S. government officials. This episode explores the portrayal of the storyline, the historical events and many other important topics.
State of the Arts Episode 154 is now available on Spotify! Christine Santori is the founder and owner of CommunityStroll.com, a unique greeting service that welcomes new residents to several towns in Connecticut. My marvelously dynamic podcast guest is also a best-selling author of an inspirational book for female professionals and a natural skincare/makeup direct seller. Another hat this extraordinary entrepreneur wears is the one of a community networker. This franchise owner is the proud Mom of a young artistic man with special needs. She is a dedicated activist in the special needs community. Her son is a talented creative who takes art lessons from Connecticut art legend Catniss Locati and is now also learning how to cook. It is an absolute honor to have Christine Santori on State of the Arts! This inspiring, hard-working, bright role model is my incredible podcast guest this week!
State of the Arts Episode 153 now available on Spotify. Pratt Institute graduate D.L. Skandle is an accomplished illustrator and author. Her self-published children's book "Little Duckie's Day" is a delightful celebration of parenting during early childhood. As a mom of a young daughter, she drew inspiration from her own life experience for this adorable book. After publication, "Little Duckie's Day" was met with rave reviews. This heartwarming work was warmly recieved by both parents and children at book readings. D.L. Skandle also illustrated for another children's book called "Fluffless, A Squirrel's Tale" written by Matt Bergin. Her work can be found online on Amazon and littleduckieweb.wixsite.com . Along with her works for children are striking paintings she created for adults. These captivating pieces address important issues including alcoholism and domestic abuse. They also celebrate diversity, creativity and wildlife. D.L. Skandle is a good friend of mine whom I met in the wonderful world of dance. I am so honored to have her as my inspirationally creative guest on my podcast this week!
State of the Arts Episode 152: The Halloween Special now available on Spotify! In this haunting new podcast episode my chilling cohost Anthony Bonilla and I attend the tale of Sweeney Todd, the infamous fictional serial killer who graced the silver screen, Broadway stage and ink-blotted paper. From humble beginnings as the villain of the penny dreadful which was comic book-esque literature from the 1800s to the frightening superstar of an entire franchise that has spanned for over a century, this tormented barber has slowly evolved into a legend. Sweeney Todd's story is a tragic one of a happy family man turned ruthless murderer when his wife and child were wronged by an evil judge. Sweeney Todd the musical addresses these disturbing issues and many more, including cannibalism with an ironic comedic touch. Sweeney Todd is a timeless horror story that has been adapted in various different forms. And a captivating story it is. This episode would not have been possible without my cohost Anthony Bonilla who is quite Sweeney Todd aficionado. Enjoy this spine-tingling Halloween Special episode if you dare.
State of the Arts Episode 151 now available on Spotify! The secret project spoiler alert. Keep a lookout next year for a fictional scripted podcast episode on State of the Arts. This week my husband Joe Grado Jr. and I give a sneak peek of the sci-fi audio production we have been collaborating on for the past year and a half. This teaser episode explores the plot, the characters and the music of this historically accurate, but scientifically impossible audio play. Has your curiosity been sparked? Tune in to this teaser episode for more details on State of the Arts’ most ambitious venture! Special thanks to Joe who is the music director, composer, sound effects specialist and one of the lead actors in this special production. Also, a huge thank you to our patient director Anthony Bonilla for being such a helpful, supportive presence during this long creative voyage!
State of the Arts Episode 150 now available on Spotify! Angel Isaac is a promising, young Film and Media studies major at Amherst College in Massachusetts. This budding Latino talent is originally from San Antonio Texas, where he went to high school and launched his YouTube Channel as a teenager. As a high school student he participated in band, but once he reached college he decided to join the rowing crew. His videos are candid documentations of his life as an athlete, traveler, student, friend and member of a loving family. Many of his current videos focus on the academic and social culture of Amherst College. He even created a documentary on his crew coach. As a study abroad student, he will soon be embarking on a journey to Rome where he will continue his education. His work on YouTube is gradually expanding to include short films and marketing videos. This up and coming artist's YouTube Channel is called "Angel Isaac" (@angelfilmedit). It was a privilege to have such a dedicated, down-to-earth, artistic and dynamic creative on State of the Arts to commemorate such an important milestone episode. Angel Isaac brings his bright enthusiasm, encouraging positivity and fascinating artistry to Episode 150.
State of the Arts Episode 149 now available on Spotify! A glorious podcast interview with one of my most incredible guests! Polina Lilu is a brilliantly talented self-taught illustrator who recently published her first adult coloring book "Chaos to Clarity." This enriching publication features breathtaking mandalas, exercises for self-care and personal stories from individuals who value the practice of mindfulness. This author and illustrator is diversely multi-talented. She is also a henna artist, a jewelry designer, a content creator and a guide for authors who aspire to publish their work. Fashion design is an art form she is beginning to experiment with. Since she has a new kitten in her care, she cleverly created a cat sweater with a pouch to keep the little darling close to her. PenPaperCanvas is her handle on Instagram. A promo code for the purchase of "Chaos to Clarity" is given in this episode for listeners. In an in-person interview on picturesque Roosevelt Island, I explore the magical world of this beautifully thoughtful artist's creative journey!
State of the Arts Episode 148: The Hispanic Heritage Month Special is now available on Spotify! This week, my husband composer Joe Grado and I pay homage to late Latino music legend Antonio Carlos Jobim. He was known as "the father of the Bossa Nova." Born in 1920's Brazil, he grew up with a stepfather who introduced him to the piano. His mother started a music school where he received a rich education from music greats. As an adult he internationalized the bossa nova with the help of other artists. Thanks to him and his collaborators, jazz was merged with the traditional bossa nova to create a new sound that captivated the world. As a well-rounded artist he triumphed in the industry as a pianist, guitarist, composer, songwriter, arranger and singer. His album "Getz/Gilberto" was the first jazz album to win the Grammy Award for Album of the Year. His collaboration with Frank Sinatra on "The Girl from Ipanema" became one of the most recorded songs of all time. In 1994, sadly Antonio Carlos Jobim passed away in New York City from complications due to a surgery. In this honorable tribute, my husband Joe will play Antonio's 1967 hit song "Wave" at the conclusion of this episode. Let's all remember this talented genius who revolutionized the music industry!
State of the Arts Episode 147 now available on Spotify! For the first time ever on my podcast, my guest is an adorable chihuahua! Belle the Precious One is an online influencer who is an indie actress and model. She is joined in this interview by her human, Francisco, who is also her manager, publicist, agent, stylist and personal assistant. Currently Belle the Precious One has well over a thousand followers and continues to grow her fan base. Very soon she will have her own website with her own personalized merchandise! There is even some merch already available now. Fans have contacted Francisco to rave about how Belle brightens their day. One fan even purchased dresses for her and contributed to her sweetly colorful wardrobe. Belle spreads joy, smiles and laughter with her endlessly appealing cuteness. I had the privilege of interviewing this darling little Instagram star in her favorite park in Astoria, Queens. Belle glowed with charisma and quiet elegance during the interview. With pensive understanding, she sits when Francisco asks her to, does a graceful turn upon request and will only chase a squirrel to a certain point before allowing the furry critter to freely escape. Francisco speaks happily of her remarkable transformation. When he met Belle, she was a terrified pup who was untrusting and aggressive. Now, thanks to a lot of attention, training and love, she has blossomed into an independent, mellow little glamour girl. A touching and inspiring story. Tune in for this one-of-a-kind State of the Arts episode that I am so immensely grateful to be a part of!
State of the Arts Episode 146 now available on Spotify! This week I proudly welcome my cousin Jen Tumey onto my podcast. Jen is a professional organizer who owns Neat Nesting, a company that specializes in helping clients get organized in whatever way is best suited for them. She works with each client to customize an organizing system that fits their needs and their lifestyle. After receiving extensive training from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, she has since gained experience working with neurodiverse clients. With a network of other organizers whom she connects with regularly, she continues to advance in the field. A strong advocate for environmental stewardship, Jen makes sure that every project she undertakes is as eco-friendly as possible, tailoring each one to the needs and budget of the client. Neat Nesting currently services clients in the New York regions of Greene County, Albany County, the Catskill Mountains and the Upper Hudson Valley. The services are confidential, personal, compassionate and nonjudgmental. I am thrilled to have been one of Jen's clients. Having never lived with anyone before, besides my family as a child and a teenager (I even had a single room all through college!), merging lives with my husband Joe was a huge adjustment. Jen has worked wonders for us. She helped us get the ball rolling towards a more organized and clutter-free future. Jen's passion for helping others and making the world a better place is what fuels her love for rescuing dogs also! In the past she fostered multiple dogs and currently has two rescue babies named Finn and Chloe. More information on professional organization and dog rescue can be found on neatnesting.com. I am over-the-moon with joy that my podcast guest is my wonderful, brilliant, caring and splendidly creative cousin Jen Tumey!!
State of the Arts Episode 145 now available on Spotify! MiMi Fischer is an actress, comedic performing artist, storyteller, hula hoop dancer and active SAG member. This dynamic creative became a masterful hula hoop dancer while partaking in a hula hoop dance challenge. Eventually this magnificent performer ended up on public access television and ascended to the mainstream networks. "MiMi on The Hoops" on The Chris Gethard Show won a cult following for six years. With a career in show biz picking up steam, MiMi joined SAG and experienced a beginners improv class at the age of fifty-seven. MiMi's impressive resume includes indie films, web shows, music videos and a spot on an episode of Broad City. The lively member of a sketch team also worked with Division IV Athletes. Tune in for an engaging, riveting and all-around entertaining interview on State of the Arts. MiMi is an exemplary example of an artist whose journey to the top was propelled by determination, imagination, dedication and delightfully humorous presentation. I'm greatly appreciative of the honor that I had of interviewing MiMi Fischer. I am also honored that my husband Joe and I had the chance to purchase some of MiMi's late mother's lovely antiques. Now a welcoming upright piano sits cozily against our living room wall!
State of the Arts Episode 144 now available on Spotify! I feel tremendously blessed this week to have interviewed contemporary art extraordinaire Carmen Einfinger! In this in-person, in-depth interview, which I conducted in the charming Elizabeth Street Garden, I take a deep dive into the colorful world of this enchanting creative. Carmen's mesmerizingly playful work is in galleries and museums all over the world, as well as in the possession of many private collectors. Thanks to an eclectic and diverse background, she brings a boldly unique flavor to all her creations. Although she is of Dutch and Croatian decent, she was born in the United Kingdom. She grew up in Brazil, lived in Canada and eventually moved to New York. Her art is a reflection of her culturally rich heritage. She joyfully embraces her inner child in all of her works as well. Highly educated, she partook in studies in several prestigious universities including Brown University and SUNY Buffalo. In 2002 she received a NYFA Fiscal Sponsorship for the national group exhibition "True Colors." In 2009 she won first prize in the International Competition of the Outdoor Gallery of the City of Gdansk, Poland. The New Museum of Contemporary Art, NY featured her as an artist in the Bowery Artists Tribute. Major art critics including Sara Ugoline and Valerio Deho have given much acclaim to her work in renowned publications. The Bilingual Art Magazine Cool featured her with a profile that focuses on her winning the International competition. Positivity, inspiration, intelligence, creativity and serenity. My welcoming guest this week embodies all of these gifts.
State of the Arts Episode 143 now available on Spotify! Mr. Eli Rooney is a content creator who specializes in holograms, teleporters and clones. His high tech videos are afro-futuristic, science fictitous and fantastic. This remarkably imaginative creative is also a photographer and videographer. He is on multiple platforms including YouTube, Instagram and Tik Tok. With previous experience in many areas of creation including anime, portraits, still life and video editing, Eli is capable of wearing many hats. This extraordinary artist has completed various projects and possesses an abundance of experience. He is in the process of fnishing his largest project to date. This video will premiere most likely in the fall. I feel privileged to have interviewed this cutting-edge content creator on State of the Arts.
State of the Arts Episode 142 now available on Spotify! Theatre for the New City presents Life on the Third Rail, an outdoor musical that addresses many social justice and environmental issues. My co-host Anthony Bonilla and I had the privilege of seeing this delightfully entertaining production yesterday. This brilliant masterpiece was the creation of renowned director, actress, writer and theatre owner Crystal Field, who was a guest on State of the Arts last year. Crystal Field is also an actress in this spellbinding production. Our dear friend legendary Terry Lee King was an actor and workshop consultant in this production as well. With a crew and cast filled with off-off Broadway power hitters, this show is a magnifying experience. It captivates with humor, musical numbers, a brilliant storyline, fetching costumes and important messages, all centering around the vibrant culture of New York City. Avant guarde meets traditional in a theatrical dalliance. If you are in the New York City area, Life on the Third Rail or A Subway Delay to The Future, as it is also called, will be playing until September 17th in many popular public areas.
Fireplace Concepts is a multi-label online fashion concept boutique. Many international designers' works can be found at Fireplace Concepts. The attire is unique, diverse and sustainable. Dundu.nstore is a premier fashion retailing platform dedicated to showcasing the exceptional creativity of independent designer brands. All of their pieces are made out of recycled materials. Currently at the center of Soho, Fireplace Concepts and Dundu.n have teamed up to create a temporary pop-up boutique featuring the work of many of their designers. This temporary boutique is located on 21 Spring Street, which is in one of the most artistic districts of downtown Manhattan. This is the second popup they have collaborated on together. They will continue to have-pop ups throughout the city in the future. Their clothing and accessories can also be purchased year-round on their websites. This week I was privileged to interview Emily who is a co-owner of Fireplace Concepts and Sylvia who is a manager for Dundu.nstore.
Rest in peace, Tony Bennett. This tribute episode is in honor of one of music's greatest legends. From humble beginnings as a grocer's son in Astoria, Queens, Anthony Benedetto extensively studied voice and painting. This diligence resulted in his rise to stardom after serving in the army during World War II. Actor Bob Hope was impressed by this young singer's talent in a night club and helped him propel his career forward. Known as "Joe Bari" at the time, this youthful vocalist changed his name to "Tony Bennett" and signed on with Columbia Records in 1951. Several of his hits topped the charts including "Rags to Riches", "Cold Cold Heart" and "Just In Time." In 1962 his single "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" topped the charts. His popularity decreased in the late 1960s. With the help of his marketing expert son, Danny Bennett, he was rebranded for a wider audience in the mid-1980s. Newer generations embraced him as he made an appearance on MTV's unplugged. In 1998 his autobiography "The Good Life" was published. Also an extremely talented painter, he signed all his works as "Anthony Benedetto." The Dixie Chicks, Michael Buble, Amy Winehouse and Lady GaGa were more recent artists he has collaborated with on music ventures. In 2021 he announced that he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Despite his illness, he continued to tour and release albums. He passed away just a few days shy of his ninety-seventh birthday. My husband Joe and I team up for a soulful memorial podcast episode that commemorates this giant of the music industry.
Eavan Boland was a legendary poet who was born in Dublin, Ireland. She emerged as one of the foremost female voices in Irish literature. Her poetry is known for subverting traditional constructions of womanhood as well as offering fresh perspectives on Irish history and mythology. Over ten volumes of poetry were written by her. Eavan Boland was an honorary member of the Royal Irish Academy and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. She received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Irish Book Awards among many other honors. The remarkable work she created addressed themes seldom found in the world of Irish poetry and won her many accolades. Also a college professor, she taught at Stanford University, beginning in 1996. In Stanford she directed the creative writing program for over two decades. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 she moved back to Dublin to settle into her hometown during the lockdown. Sadly she passed away of a stroke in her Dublin home in April of 2020. This State of the Arts podcast episode is in honor of one of Irish literature's most influential writers.
State of the Arts Episode 138 just published! Westchester dog parents have been blessed with a new haven in White Plains when 4mydogs opened this year on East Post Road. 4mydogs is an all-purpose dog supply and service boutique that offers everything from dog daycare to grooming to training to walking to events to merchandise. There are even some items for cats as well. Everything edible is carefully labeled, made of natural ingredients and from small companies owned by independent businesspeople. In this delightful episode, I interview young entrepreneur Jazzmin, who is not only the owner of 4mydogs, but also the owner of two adorable little canines herself. I was very excited to conduct this in-person interview at this clean, modern facility that was both welcoming and professional. Dogs who stay at 4mydogs are under the watch of a staff of highly-experienced, professionally-trained dog caretakers. Dogs are carefully evaluated before they are taken in as clients. Once they join the daycare or overnight boarding program they have an enriching experience ahead of them. These precious cuties can look forward to days filled of socialization, enrichment programs that keep their minds/body active, personalized attention, the administering of any medical necessities and a staff that will accommodate each individual dog's eating/walking schedule. 4mydogs also offers professional grooming services by a skilled groomer and overnight boarding. As my dopamine skyrocketed from being viewed by an adorable four-legged audience on this onsite podcast episode, I was feeling absolutely privileged to be interviewing this young, brilliant, African American female entrepreneur of this ingenious enterprise.
State of the Arts Episode 137 just published! White Plains, Hartsdale, Harrison, Silver Lake. The quaint, yet modernized areas that are just a train ride away from New York City are the hidden gems of Westchester. In this tribute to a treasure of a region, I explore the day to day lives of two locals. A White Plains resident and a Hartsdale resident. Museums, farmers markets, a diverse array of restaurants, outdoor events and easy access to Manhattan are the luxuries that are shared by lower Westchester dwellers. Nature meets industry as my home region transforms into the future. With the feel of a small town complimented by the sophistication of a large city, the area I am so proud to live in is a budding hub for business, education, retail, culture, art and residential development. Dive deep into what our townships and small city offers in this enriching episode of State of the Arts. I am overjoyed to have created this episode of dedication to my home and its charming neighboring towns.
In the bustling streets of New York City is an artist who continuously spreads joy, fun and unity as he moves from location to location with his high-tech portable sound system. Visual artist Nelson Betancourt was inspired to bring his creativity to the public areas of Manhattan during the gloomy silence of the 2020 COVID lockdown. That was when Love Train was born! Equipped with a full-size speaker he made portable, a playful uniform he designed himself and an infinite playlist, Love Train became the celebrated wandering DJ of New York. Happily he roamed from neighborhood to neighborhood in all five boroughs. Spirits were lifted, bodies were dancing and faces were smiling as impromptu block parties surfaced all over the metropolitan area thanks to this innovative artist. Ben Aaron featured Love Train on a news story on WPIX Channel Eleven long after the lockdown concluded as this high-spirited nomadic DJ still brings his music to the diverse communities of the city. Originally intended to be a pop-up art installment, Love Train's popularity has propelled his work into a beloved urban attraction. At times he even creates art installments within this mobile art installment. He has hopes of creating a designated music subway car in the MTA system and going international with his work in the future. As a visual artist he has also sold a few of his works to private collectors. One of his most valuable works is colorful disco ball comprised of tiny images from the vast world of music. I am proud and overjoyed that I had the chance to interview this wonderful New York phenomena on my podcast!
This week I welcome videographer, filmmaker, Burning Treehouse Film Company founder and my fellow Manhattanville College alumni Joe Hughes to my podcast. With well over a decade of film work under his belt, this experienced video producer is the proud founder and CEO of Westchester's leading video productions business. Burning Treehouse Film Company handles all aspects of productions with Joe's stellar team of highly professional freelancers by his side. From corporate advertisements to weddings to indie films to documentaries to podcasts, his well-rounded productions company services diverse clientele. The company website burningtreehousefilmcompany.com boasts an impressive array of testimonials, sample reels and much more. This excitingly nouveau enterprise is also on Instagram, as well as Facebook. In addition to directing this dynamic film company, Joe Hughes also takes on independent projects of his own from time to time. This podcast episode is a deep dive into the the wondrous world of a young rising star in the Westchester film productions industry.
My guest this week is singer, model, content creator and environmental activist Rae Simone. As a part of The Hudson Valley Blues Society, this multi-talented artist performs steadily at various New York venues. She has graced many local hotspots with her talents including Rockwood Music Hall, Carmine’s Deli and Studio Around the Corner. With her recorded music available for sale, she includes a limited number of classic vinyl records in her merchandise. As a defender of the Earth, she is deeply involved in the organizing of litter clean-up initiatives. Her creativity is an endless wellspring, as she also models in unique photo-shoots. It is an honor to have this dynamic, wonderfully talented creative on State of the Arts for such an important episode!
State of the Arts Episode 133: The Father's Day Special just released! This week I commemorate Edwin Anthony Osborne II, my grandfather on my father's side. The Osborne family relocated to the United States from the United Kingdom in the late 1700s for business purposes. There is a strong possibility that they were related to The Duke of Leeds in Yorkshire (the lineage has not been traced recently. But it's on my bucket list to do so). My Pa Pa Ed's grandfather George Osborne fought courageously in the Civil War. He continued to be an entrepreneur after the war. Although Great-Great Grandpa George lived in the beautiful melting pot that was and still is New York, he and my great-great grandmother were not thrilled when their British Episcopalian son Edwin Anthony fell in love with an Irish Catholic recreational writer by the name of Betsy McHugh. My Great Grandparents eloped despite both of their families' outrage. The star-crossed lovers were "disowned" by both the Osbornes and the McHughs. Sadly their families never spoke to them again. But they made a life for themselves on Long Island and had three children (one of them was my Pa Pa Ed). Pa Pa Ed excelled in school and was blessed with the writing gene from his mother. After attending New York University he was hired as an entry-level reporter by Editor-in-Chief William Anderson of the Brooklyn Gazette. He fell in love with his employer's daughter Oressa, my Nana. They enjoyed the thrills of the metropolitan area together. Like my Nana, Pa Pa Ed also loved the New York City nightlife, live music, dancing, the beach, sailing and amusement parks on Coney Island. Surprisingly enough though, my Nana was the Brooklyn Dodgers fan, while my Pa Pa was not very interested in following sports. After they married, Pa Pa Ed and Nana Oressa settled down in Rockaway Beach, Queens and my Dad was born. Pa Pa Ed loved dogs. So, they always had at least one canine companion. He was also the Scoutmaster of my Dad's boy scout troop. Pa Pa Ed believed in helping children find their confidence to become leaders in the future. With very strong feelings about human rights, Pa Pa Ed had written many articles that were considered extremely progressive for that time. At a young age, he assumed the position of Editor-in-Chief when his father-in-law William Anderson retired early due to some health issues. Pa Pa Ed's writing skills did not go unnoticed by larger papers. The New York Times gave him a part-time position as a columnist as well. And occasionally he did some freelance editing for a Long Island newspaper. Tragically as my grandfather's career flourished he was diagnosed with liver cancer. Out of convenience he left his positions to take a job as Chief Editor of a local paper near his home. This shortened his commute time as he endured cancer treatments. He passed away quite abruptly when he wasn't even middle-aged yet. My Nana Oressa sold their home and moved back in with her father William along with my Dad. Pa Pa Ed's stellar writing abilities, passion for social justice and compassion for both people and animals were passed along to my Dad. In time my Dad influenced me with all these attributes. I have so many fond memories of bringing my writings to my Dad to edit, fawning over animals with him and our long talks about social issues. I never met my Pa Pa Ed. But I can sense his legacy every time I write, every time I pet my cat's cuddly fur and every time I do my best to stand up for what is right.
The Van Gogh Immersive Experience is an art exhibit celebrating the life and work of Vincent Van Gogh. This exhibit offers a dalliance for the senses as patrons step inside paintings through virtual reality, digital exhibitions and a theatrical set-style room. This experience can be found in cities all over the world in many different nations. I had the opportunity to enjoy this mesmerizing adventure when my husband Joe and I visited Albany last month. The Experience has four distinct sections: the high-tech gallery that is a deep view into the artist's life story, the immense room that features two-story light projections that liven his work into motion, the interactive room that allows participants to color their own Van Gogh paintings and the virtual reality experience. A few years after its initial creation this exhibit has become a popular international franchise pop up. This week Joe joins me to review this magnetic excursion that we embarked on for my birthday.
State of the Arts Episode 131: The Pride Month Special just released. The legendary Greek Poetess Sappho was most likely born around 620 BCE to a prominent family on the island of Lesbos during a golden age for culture and art. Sappho is considered by many scholars as one of the best poets of all time. She is often referred to as "The Poetess" as Homer is often referred to as "The Poet." Plato called her "The Tenth Muse" and her image has been depicted on Greek currency as well as statues. However, there were many bigots in history who attacked and ridiculed her for being a lesbian. Her writings and even proven facts about her life have been altered in some arenas to serve the beliefs of certain readers. Recently Sappho's original poetry has gained much popularity thanks to progressing times. Aside from her focus on love in her work, Sappho contributed in other ways to the lyric genre. Her intensions for writing poetry were for the enjoyment and appreciation of her writings by close friends and lovers. Little did she know the impact her art would have on the world of poetry. Understandably Sappho is recognized as one of the greatest poets in literary history. This episode is a tribute to this timeless literary artist.
State of the Arts Episode 130; the Mental Health Awareness Month Special just released. This week my esteemed co-host Anthony Bonilla and I team up to review the 1944 classic drama film Gaslight. In addition, this is the unofficial second half of the Angela Lansbury Tribute Episode as she was the supporting actress in this gripping film noir. Gaslight was a ground-breaking film that dared to address the issue of narcissists, sociopaths and psychopaths using the manipulative technique of gaslighting the innocent to force them into believing that they are the mentally disturbed ones. The term "gaslighting" is used today in modern psychology and psychiatry because of this cutting-edge movie. An all-star cast boasts Ingrid Bergman as Paula, the lead character who was emotionally tormented by a cunning, deceitful man she married. Charles Boyer was cast as the abusive master-manipulator. Joseph Cotten had the role of the heroic family friend who worked tirelessly to rescue the victim from her perpetrator and of course, Angela Lansbury was the devious housekeeper who (along with the other deceitful servant) assists the abuser in gaslighting the lady of the house. The story takes place in the Edwardian Era when gas lights were used in many homes. The two vindictive housekeepers turned the gas lights up and down while the abusive husband convinced his wife that she is imagining it all. Thanks to this revolutionary masterpiece, many important issues have been brought to light (no pun intended). Tune in for a very informative episode about one of the most important and captivating drama films in the history of cinema.
State of the Arts Episode 129: The Asian Heritage Month Special just released! Cantonese opera is an elaborate form of performance that combines extravagant costumes, striking makeup, lively theatrics and powerful vocals. I warmly recall my grandparents using the slang word "douk douk chong" to refer to Cantonese opera. This astonishing form of opera was first performed during the reign of the Ming Dynasty Emperor Jiajing from 152 to 1567. Originally based on the older forms of Chinese opera, Cantonese opera began to add local folk melodies, Cantonese instrumentation, and eventually even Western popular tunes. Two different types of styles make up the Cantonese Opera repertoire—Mo, meaning "martial arts," and Mun, or "intellectual"—wherein the melodies are entirely secondary to the lyrics. Mo performances are fast-paced, involving stories of warfare, bravery and betrayal. The actors often carry weapons as props, and the elaborate costumes may be as heavy as actual armor. Mun, on the other hand, tends to be a slower, more polite art form. The actors use their vocal tones, facial expressions, and long flowing "water sleeves" to express complex emotions. Most of the Mun stories are romances, morality tales, ghost stories, or famous Chinese classic tales or myths. Today, Hong Kong is at the center of efforts to keep Cantonese opera alive and thriving. The Hong Kong Academy for the Performing Arts offers two-year degrees in Cantonese Opera Performance, and the Arts Development Council sponsors opera classes for the city's children. Through such concerted effort, this unique and intricate form of Chinese opera may continue to find an audience for decades to come. This episode is a tribute to the majestic, the beguiling, the dramatic form of theatre known as Cantonese Opera.
State of the Arts Episode 128 The Mother's Day Special just released: This week I commemorate Oressa Osborne, my grandmother on my father's side. Descended from a British, German and Austrian lineage, she was born in New York City as Oressa Anderson. Her father, William Anderson, was the Chief Editor of The Brooklyn Gazette Newspaper and her mother was a spirited homemaker. Growing up in 1920's New York City, my Nana Oressa was drawn to the vivacious metropolitan culture. She loved dance, music, restaurants, venues with live bands, Coney Island amusement parks, sailing, beaches in the summer, fashion and makeup. When she completed high school, she attended finishing school to be educated in etiquette, the culinary arts, domestic event planning and social-style ballroom dance. Needless to say, she quickly caught the eye of one of The Brooklyn Gazette's young reporters. My grandfather Edwin Anthony Osborne II was a recent New York University graduate hired by William Anderson as an entry-level journalist. My grandparents enjoyed the thrilling attractions of the boisterous city together during the months of their courtship. After a whirlwind romance they were married in a quaint ceremony with a few relatives and close friends in attendance. They settled down in a cozy two-story home in Far Rockaway Beach, Queens. My Dad was born about a year later. Along with the fun-loving, partying personalities of my grandparents were very serious sides to them; sides that cared about justice and equality. I remember my Dad accounting to me how strongly my Nana felt about workers' rights. She refused to ever cross a picket line. If workers were protesting in front of a grocery store she had planned to shop in, she would drive further to patron another one. During the Great Depression she was quick to reach out to the needy with food and toiletries. During World War II she was always generous in cooking meals and assembling care packages for service men and women in her neighborhood. My grandfather was over the draft age. But, he was sadly struck with liver cancer in the 1940's. My Nana was a widow by the time she was in her thirties with a son who was barely a teen. She moved back in with her father. So my Great-Grandfather William Anderson, who was a widower by then, and many of the older males in our family became father figures to my Dad. My Nana and her cousin Dottie were like sisters. Great Aunt Dottie was always there for my Dad as a loving Aunt. My Nana taught my Dad how to ballroom dance socially, the rules of etiquette, the importance of justice in the world, how to stay strong in the face of adversity and how to have a great time! By the time she reached middle age she was remarried to an Italian-American business man named Charles "Chick" Ciampi. Together my Dad and his stepdad took care of my Nana as she suffered from breast cancer that spread to her lymph nodes. My Dad was very glad she was able to attend his college graduation before she passed away. I never had the chance to meet her. But I had the chance to know her and love her through my Dad. My Dad always felt that I've inherited her spirit and her smile. In this podcast episode I remember the remarkable woman who raised my Dad. Nana Oressa, this one's for you!
State of the Arts Episode 127: Fashion designer and Loola Doola boutique owner Lauren Morris joins me on my podcast for an intriguing interview. Loola Doola is a charming boutique with original pieces that range from playful accessories to cutting edge apparel to vintage items. Feminine, fun, exotic, chic, timeless or elegant. Loola Doola has something that suits every woman's style. Lauren M is the sole designer of unique clutch purses that have been featured in Westchester Magazine several times. These one-of-a-kind statement pieces also won Best of Westchester 2018 for best clutches. Her purses are the signature item of Loola Doola. Making a generous effort to give back to the community, Loola Doola is involved with many local charitable organizations, including Sister to Sister International, Inc., The Acceleration Project and The Women's Club of White Plains. Loola Doola's location is an enchanting store front with two levels of creativity and design. Should a visitor choose to forgo the welcoming staircase, an elevator with an artistic decor is available. Vibrant fabrics, sewing stations and plush furniture embrace the senses as one tours this remarkable shop. With a Parisian-like atmosphere and a unique experience tailored for each individual shopper, Loola Doola offers a fashion adventure that is unparalleled. I am deeply thankful for this inspiring interview with this creative, intelligent and engaging entrepreneur. For more information about Loola Doola, please explore looladoolaboutique.com.
State of the Arts Episode 126: The Autism Awareness Month Special just released! Spectrum Designs is an enterprise that creates meaningful and inclusive employment opportunities for people on the Autism Spectrum. This remarkable business produces apparel, office items, posters, tote bags and other merchandise. Spectrum Bakes and Spectrum Suds are also affiliates of Spectrum Designs. All proceeds from these nonprofits go towards the ongoing expansion and advancement of hiring and retaining an inclusive, integrated workforce. Spectrum's staff have the support of educational specialists who help with behavioral and personal goals while aiding the development of career skills thanks to its partnership with The Nicholas Center. This week I was extremely fortunate to have taken a tour of the Pleasantville location of Spectrum Designs and to have interviewed Operations Manager Josh Eagle for State of the Arts. The experience was absolutely enchanting as I was welcomed into a positive, supportive environment. The facility boasted an efficient collection of equipment and technologies as well. They offer screen printing, embroidery, digital printing, pad printing and promotional products. The inspirational, highly qualified staff prints or procures fine-quality, reasonably-priced items at a speedy pace for their clients continuously. A huge thank you to everyone who is a part of this extraordinary organization. To find out more information about Spectrum Designs, inquire about their services or to make a donation please go to their website: https://www.spectrumdesigns.org/
State of the Arts Episode 125: the Earth Day Special just released! A hundred year-old former hat factory stands regally in Norwalk, Connecticut. This building withstood a century's worth of storms, heat, cold and changing social climates. Sturdy as a fortress to ensure protection against an enemy invasion back in the World War eras, its structure has proven itself unshakable many times over. Now modernized and renovated, 25 Van Zant Street proudly boasts an intriguing past and a very green future. This unique building was designated as an urban farm before the COVID pandemic as its owner Winthrop Baum has always had an agricultural interest. His eco-friendly building hosted the growing of microgreens for the restaurant industry. Unfortunately this enterprise was shut down during the COVID surge. However Winthrop Baum redirected his mission as cannabis was legalized in the state of Connecticut recently. After spending $22 million on renovations for the past seven years, he has ensured that 25 Van Zant street is ready for entrepreneurial tenants of any form of legal cannabis-related business, including cultivators, cannabis food/beverage manufacturers or processers. Catniss Locati, who joined the WEB realty team this year, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table as a Certified Cannabis Consultant with seven years of cannabis-centered business experience. She is also a fine artist who is a published author of Cannazine which discusses the healing relationship between medical pigmentation and medicinal cannabis. As a tattoo artist she has cosmetically reconstruct what was lost by breast cancer survivors with her renowned areonip tattoos. It was a privilege to have both Winthrop Baum and Catniss Locati as my guests this week for my podcast's first Earth Day Special! For more information about this building which has 265,000 sq ft of interior space with ample light from custom-made windows, five floors and a roof top that is outdoor cultivation-friendly, please go to their website: 25vanzant.com.
As a multimedia artist, post-production professional and harpist Amanda Peckler is a dynamic creative who brings her phenomenal abilities to multiple arenas. This Skidmore College graduate has been involved in several documentaries, transmedia projects, narratives and podcasts. She is an accomplished member of The Post New York Alliance, The Blue Collar Post Collective, The Future NOW Media Foundation and AIR Media. In addition she is a mentee for the Alliance of Documentary Editors. Her vast experience has brought her to hands-on involvement in production and post-production roles on award-winning documentary film sets, edu-tainment teams, mutlimedia installation work and narrative television shows with HBO Max, Amazon, Apple TV+, and AMC. As the co-founder and the producer of the Pass the Mic series, she helped propel this cutting-edge multimedia platform and community forward into a bright destiny of empowering individuals with marginalized identities by giving them a voice on air. Once a fellow for the John B. Moore Documentary Studies Collaborative Institute, she embraced the opportunity to direct and develop an interactive website and living archive called Neshama: The Jewess Soul, which explored Jewish womanhood in the United States. Currently Amanda Peckler serves as a producer, editor and co-host of House of Neshama, a digital platform and podcast off-shoot of her documentary project. As harpist and poet, she performs at many events, bringing her beautiful skills to a diverse array of ambiances. Her talents shine in many various settings. I am delighted, honored and absolutely thrilled to have this spirited talent grace the airwaves of State of the Arts this week!
State of the Arts Episode 123 just published! Matt William Stanton is a painter, musician and lyric writer whose exquisite work can be found online. As a painter he specializes in portraits, line works, landscapes and murals. Over ten of his pieces were selected to be displayed at a luxury nursing facility in Connecticut. He was also commissioned to paint a mural at a dining establishment and on the wall of a private home. His style of painting is reminiscent of some of the greats including Picasso, Monet and Matisse. In addition to being a painter, he is also a guitarist and lyric writer. He has recently entered his work into a contest that will conclude before the end of this year. Tune in for an in depth discussion with an up and coming artist who is a sterling example of the art world today. Listen to a captivating discussion of his past works, future projects and the story of his artistic journey. I was honored to have this enriching State of the Arts interview this week with this multitalented guest.
State of the Arts Episode 122 just published! My guest this week is Debbie Daum, a gemologist with a background in the jewelry industry who turned her passion into a career when she opened an all-purpose bead store in White Plains, New York. Bead Everything offers supplies for all beading needs, jewelry making classes, ready-to-wear pieces and even literature. From semi-precious stones to Swarovski crystals to Southwest Turquoise to Miyuki seedbeeds, one's eyes are met with a rainbow world of variety when entering this delightful store. The staff are all highly skilled at beading and teach many of the classes at this beautifully creative jewelry design paradise. A few of them were features in major beading magazines. Many guest artists come to teach specialty classes as well. This year Bead Everything is hosting its first Bead Retreat in May. This retreat will be a three day celebration with classes, raffles, giveaways, guest artists and food. I was honored to step into the enchanting world of beading for a fascinating interview with this brilliantly artistic entrepreneur.
This week's episode is an honorable tribute to late acting legend Dame Angela Lansbury who passed away tranquilly last year at ninety six. Dame Angela Lansbury was an Irish-British and American actress, dancer and singer whose extraordinary career graced the silver screen, prime time television and the stage. Her career had humble beginnings as she took small roles in classic low budget movies after signing a contract with MGM. Her breakout role was in The Manchurian Candidate (1962). This catapulted her into stardom and gave her an opening to branch out into Broadway. From Mame to Gypsy to Sweeney Todd to the King and I, she commanded the stage with star power. But, she was far from done with Hollywood as she gravitated toward sweet, matronly roles in children's films. She gained much notoriety as the voice of Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast. Who can forget her magical antics in Bedknobs and Broomsticks? Anastasia, Nanny McPhee and Mary Poppins Returns are other family films she so beautifully acted in. Murder She Wrote, as we all know, was the television hit show that featured her as a widowed mystery writer who was also an amateur sleuth. Her impressive array of awards includes six Tony Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award, six Golden Globes, a Laurence Olivier Award, an Honorary Academy Award, eighteen Primetime Emmy Awards and a Grammy. Peter Shaw was her producer husband whom she was married to for over fifty years until his passing. They had two children whom she had to rescue from the Charles Manson Cult and drugs when they hit their teenaged years. So charitable and loving, she was very active in AIDS awareness and in helping struggling artists get their big break. Along with my trusted co-host, good friend and performing arts connoisseur Anthony Bonilla, I pay an homage to the legacy of one of the most beloved actresses of all time.
The You Frontier is a startup that transforms unused buildings and commercial space into co-working, creative and community spaces. Their business model is similar to that of a gym offering people reasonably priced subscriptions for virtually unlimited access to their space. The You Frontier offers a way to make use of existing space, a physical social network and a chance for subscribers to have a stake in the company. On March 29th 2023 The You Frontier will be hosting talented artists who will be helping decorate their space at 25 Van Zant Street. This event is called "The YOU Frontier Art Extravaganza" and is coordinated by Catniss Locati with Catniss Art Ranch & WEB Realty Company Winthrop Baum. A group of talented artists will be creating paintings and competing for prize money while receiving a base pay for their work as well. There will be refreshments and three hours of unbridled creativity. Get your tickets now on eventbrite.com!
In this epic, larger-than-life episode of State of the Arts my co-host Anthony Bonilla and I give a rave review of the new adaptation of Tennessee Williams' legendary play Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. This astonishing Off Broadway show is a Ruth Stage production directed by Joe Rosario. Matt de Rogatis of Ruth Stage, who was a guest on State of the Arts last year, owns the lead role of troubled alcoholic Brick Pollitt flawlessly. An all-star cast that includes Courtney Henggeler (currently renowned for her role in hit show Kobra Kai), Frederick Weller (known for his role in In Plain Sight and To Kill a Mockingbird), two-time Tony Award Nominee Alison Fraser, along with several other notable stars. This powerful team brings forth masterful performances in this controversial classic retold. The original Ruth Stage production of this show was the first time in history permission was granted by the Tennessee Williams estate for an Off Broadway Stage production. A key member of the productions team is Tony Award winning Broadway Producer Joseph Grano (Jersey Boys). With a whole crew of power-hitters behind the scenes as well this production is a must-see for any theatre lover. While the famous film version of this story, that starred Paul Newman and Elizabeth Taylor, very careful to mask the controversial topics the storyline addressed, this modern day stage adaptation presents the issues head-on. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof focuses on many societal issues including homophobia, alcoholism, family dysfunction, emotional abuse, depression, sexism, infidelity and classism. Tennessee Williams' work was revolutionary for its time and he was a champion for LGBTQ rights. Hurry and get your tickets today before March 31st when its glorious run is over! The production takes place several times a week at the Saint Clément's Theatre in Manhattan. Go to ruthstage.org to get your tickets while you still can!
This week storyteller, comedienne, actress, author and natural redhead Michele Carlo joins me in this enchanting podcast episode. A native New Yorker, she began her career in the entertainment industry on the eclectic stages of the city. She has appeared across the country in many shows including NRP with Latino U.S.A. as she is an artist of Puerto Rican descent. The Clearwater Music and Arts Festival, RISK!, Story Colliders, PBS's Stories from the Stage, MOTH's GrandSlams and Mainstage are other impressive feathers in her performer's cap. "Fish Out of Agua" is a book she authored which contains many of her early MOTH stories. She had roles in various indie productions and was with Sheria Mattis on Kelly Jean Fitzsimmon's "NO, YOU TELL IT!" for the 10th anniversary of the show. She will be in many more shows and on many other podcasts to come. These appearances include a storytelling at the "No Name Super Story Party" at the WordUp Community Bookshop. Also bringing her talents to the World Channel/WGBH, she was on Episode 11 of the "Stories from the Stage" series. A woman of many skills, Michele Carlo works as a professional face painter as well. I am delighted and honored to have this comedy extraordinaire, this brilliant wordsmith, this beguiling entertainer, this multi-faceted artist grace the airwaves of my podcast this week!
Caroline Reddy is a poet, an author, a librarian, a teacher, a Reiki Master and a student of martial arts. Her work was accepted or published by many different sources including The Bethlehem Writers Roundtable, The Journal of Expressive Writing, The International Human Rights Festival and The Opiate. In 2021 her poem "A Sacred Dance" was nominated for The Best of The Net Prize by Active Muse. Extremely active in the writer community, she coordinates many activities for her fellow writers. Her events unite artists from the literary world and beyond. In addition, several of the events she organizes do address important social justice issues. With her extensive education, she had once worked as a school teacher, is currently a teacher for a children's' class at a library and is also a librarian. She has written a manuscript about Zen practice which will be published in the future. Tune in for a mindful, informative and captivating episode with a very engaging creative whom I was so amazingly privileged to have interviewed for my podcast this week!
This week my husband, music composer Joe Grado Jr. joins me once again to discuss the current indie projects we are working on together. We specifically take a deep dive into our most active project at the moment which is evolving quite swiftly into a full-scale production. This project has truly allowed us to stretch our creative muscles. Fully in his element, Joe works as a composer and musician on this venture. As a dance choreographer and lyricist, I work diligently by his side. What started off as a silly private joke between spouses has now accelerating into an organized, professional comedy production thanks to an experienced indie director who values our ideas. We are thrilled to be involved in the pre-productions process in a hands-on manner. From making script alteration suggestions to critiquing actors' audition videos, we have been graciously welcomed into the nucleus of this blossoming project. This episode is a celebration of our journey as a creative couple working on our first major project together. An electrifying journey which has only begun! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts Episode 115: The Valentine's Day Special just released. To celebrate the most romantic holiday of the year, naturally my podcast guest is my amazingly talented music composer husband Joe Grado Jr. After attaining a degree in music from The City University of New York- CSI, he has propelled into a diverse career in music. Having played in various bands, studied under accomplished music legends and taught both privately, as well as for prestigious music schools, Joe now takes his astonishingly versatile skills into the infinite arena of music composition. Thanks to his dynamic background he is comfortable composing in any genre of music. Currently his new website is about to be launched, he is rapidly growing his online channels and he is involved in multiple music scoring projects. I am blessed to be working with him on two of these projects. He can be found on various platforms of social media including Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. With every video he posts, his Tik Tok and YouTube Channels continue to grow. My heart is profoundly touched to have embarked on this celebratory episode with this extraordinarily gifted musical talent whom I am so esctatic to be spending the rest of my life with!
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State of the Arts Episode 114, The Black History Month Special just released! In honor of this special month this podcast episode is a memorial for late poet laureate Gwendolyn Brooks. This brilliant poet, author, and teacher created works that often dealt with the personal celebrations or struggles in the community. She was the first African American to receive a Pulitzer Prize. After going to a literary conference at Fisk University in 1967, she became an activist in the Black Power movement. She also started a poetry workshop from her home. Writing over twenty poetry books, this literary legend became the first African American to join the National Institute of Arts and Letters. In addition, she was the first black female appointed as consultant in poetry to the Library of Congress (now known as the poet laureate). She also received an American Academy of Arts and Letters Award, the Frost Medal, a National Endowment for the Arts Award, the Shelley Memorial Award, and fellowships from the Academy of American Poets and the Guggenheim Foundation. Impressively she had earned more than fifty honorary degrees during her career. In 1995, she was awarded the National Medal of the Arts. Her twilight years were spent dedicated to public service. She conducted poetry readings at prisons and hospitals and attended annual poetry contests for school children, which she often funded. On December 3, 2000 she passed away in Chicago where she lived.
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State of the Arts Episode 113 just published! Shirley Jaffe was an abstract painter whose revolutionary geometric shapes and patterns set her apart from the rest of the world of artists. After completing her studies at Cooper Union in New York in 1945, she continued her art education in Washington D.C. at the Phillips Arts School. When she had the opportunity to move to Paris with her husband, she immediately immersed herself into the prestigious Parisian artists' culture. By the 1960's she left for Berlin, Germany to attend the Ford Foundation. There she developed her original style that was not received very well initially when she returned to Paris. However, members of art society grew to love her new, unique work. Shirley Jaffe passed away in 2016. This is a memorable tribute to a legendary artist. I had the chance to see her paintings at the Tibor De Nagy Gallery, which is only a block from where I teach ballroom dancing in downtown Manhattan. This episode is a dedication honoring an artistic pioneer who revolutionized the immense universe of contemporary painting.
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State of the Arts Episode 112: The Lunar New Year Special just released! Art Start has teamed up with DODO The Fortune Baby Popup in SOHO to form a space of creativity. The Fortune Baby DODO is the continuation of the time-honored Chinese New Year tradition of celebrating the Choy Sun or Caisen (statue of good fortune). DODO is inviting New Yorkers to reinterpret the ancient Chinese tradition with their own creativity. The Fortune Baby DODO is a new spin on the statue of good fortune for a new generation of Chinese. Modern, simple, yet still symbolic with familiar details, the Fortune Baby stands as a classic symbol with a new interpretation. This Popup is also a creative space where people can personalize their own Fortune Baby. In the center of the Popup and off on the side are two large-scale Fortune Babies that visitors can sign their names on with colorful markers. Visitors can also personalize their own mini-DODO to be displayed in the store for the duration of the Popup. On the walls of this Popup, many local artists are displaying their work, which transforms the space into a shared art gallery. The Fortune Baby DODO enriches a new generation of Chinese New Yorkers with the ancient tradition of their heritage. With a Chinese lineage on my mother's side, I am so proud and thrilled to interview Rae, who is one of the magnificently creative founders of the DODO Popup in downtown Manhattan, in this enthralling onsite episode.
State of the Arts Episode 111 just released! Pop International Art Gallery was founded by artist, curator and entrepreneur Jeff Jaffe. Originally from South Africa, he made waves in his native land as he courageously stood up against the grotesque injustice of the Apartheid. Eventually ending up in art school in the United States, he married here, started a family and began his journey in the museum industry. In 1997 he opened this extraordinary gallery where I conducted this priceless in-person interview. The cutting-edge, ground-breaking gallery specializes in pop, urban and photographic pop art. This downtown Manhattan gem has evolved into a bustling enterprise. A remarkable hub for major events, year-round art sales and captivating news stories. This fetching artists' Mecca, situated near the Bowery, is a magical venue for world famous art collectors, rising aspiring artists, enthusiastic hobbyists and renowned art legends. A well-known Andy Warhol piece can be sold next to a work by an unknown up and coming artist. I am humbled with a grateful heart for the privilege of interviewing this brilliant, kind-hearted, brave and creative guest on State of the Arts!
State of the Arts Episode 110 just published. David Lawson is a writer, comic, performing artist, director, actor and teacher who has gifted my podcast with his delightful presence this week. An artist with multiple talents, he was an actor in the Comedy Central sketch "Rage Restaurant," teaches storytelling classes with Queens Theatre and has performed his one-man shows all over New York City (as well as across the nation). In his show "Nazis and Me" he recounts his encounters with hate groups as a Jewish man. The monthly Astoria Bookshop Storytelling Show, which is a free monthly storytelling open mic, is hosted by him. This show has been featured in the New York Times. Students learn to write and perform one-person shows in his enriching workshops. As a director, David Lawson has worked on several one-person shows including Richard Cardillo's one-man show "Invisibility: A Journey of Pasta, Prayer, Protest, and Peru." This richly entertaining production won the Audience Choice Award at the 2019 FRIGID New York Festival. At one time a podcaster himself, he's no stranger to the airwaves. He used to have his own podcast and he also performed on the popular storytelling podcast "RISK!" This diversely accomplished artist is the engaging, personable, witty and intelligent guest I had the privilege of having on State of the Arts this week!
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State of the Arts Episode 109: The New Year Special just published! My guest this week is a fellow dancer and podcaster. Also an actress, storyteller, writer and comedienne, Jenice Matias has proven herself to be a Renaissance woman. As a Jason Chin Scholarship recipient, she studied acting extensively in Great Britain. With a double bachelor's degree from Montclair State University, she has become a force to be reckoned with in the wonderful world of the arts. During her school years she was a member of the Theta Alpha Phi theatre fraternity, listed in the "Who's Who" among students in the United States and listed in the "Who's Who" for Hispanic students. As a podcaster she received over 100, 000 listeners for an episode where she shared an engaging story about her mother. A maven for comedic monologues, she has performed in various solo productions. As a professional dancer she has been a prominent member of the Piel Canela Woman's Dance Company for many years. As an actress she appeared on several television shows including Law & Order and Nurse Jackie. In addition to having her own online variety show, she is the founder and artistic director of Tropical Delight in Action, which is a nonprofit organization that promotes multi-cultural awareness of the arts. A PCHCC award was presented to her for her service to the community. Not to mention her successful ascension as the top finalist position of the NBC and VCB showcases. I can't imagine a better guest for my podcast's New Year Special. So rich in talent, energy, positivity, worldliness and charm, Jenice makes the perfect guest to kick off 2023 on State of the Arts.
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My holiday cohost Anthony Bonilla joins me in my eccentric analysis of the legendary Santa Claus, his multicultural counterparts, his odd little assistants and his regal predecessors. Together we dissect the origins of an eclectic mix of yule tide characters. For instance, in certain parts of Italy a witch on a broomstick brings children their toys and cleans their home afterwards. In some Germanic cultures a raggedy wanderer named Belsnickel brings toys to well-behaved children and punishes the naughty. In some Latin American cultures the wise men bring the Christmas gifts instead of Santa. A little known fact about Santa Claus' attire is that Coca-Cola commercialism is the reason why Santa wears red and white. In this educational new podcast episode my cohost and I bring to light the myths, the legends, the mysteries and the histories of the yearly unseen Christmas gift bearer.
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I’m joined by professional writer, salsa dancer, world traveler and patron of the arts Ken Valenti. A former journalist for The Journal News, he is currently working in the public relations industry. This Fordham University graduate also enjoys writing for leisure. As a participant of National Writing Month November, he has partaken in the lofty challenge of writing a novel of at least 53,000 words within the month of November once a year. Not a stranger to international adventure, Ken was a part of language study programs that gave him opportunities to visit several countries in Latin America. Recently he has returned from a trip to Iceland where he immersed himself into local culture by sampling the infamous Icelandic delicacy of aged shark meat. This worldly former salsa partner of mine was my classmate while we were both training in club-style Latin dancing at Dance Mosaic. Together we eventually taught salsa classes at Reka’s Thai Restaurant and a continuing education salsa class for Westchester Community College. As a member of the Piel Canela salsa team, he performed at the Connecticut Salsa Fest and at the South Street Seaport. A warm, gracious thank you to my dear friend for being such an interesting, bright, friendly, witty and entertaining guest on State of the Arts!
--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Stems Gallery and Arsenal Contemporary Art NY have joined forces across the Atlantic to present an exciting group exhibition that includes twelve artists working across various materials and techniques including painting, photography and sculpture. The exhibition brings the worlds of art, fashion and sports under the microscope to explore the connections between them while offering an understanding of their unique significance within the contemporary visual arts culture. In a compelling on-site interview with curator Anais Castro, I explore the depths of this ground-breaking exhibit that has multiple other similar installments both in the United States and abroad. Situated in the hectic streets of downtown Manhattan, the gallery where I interviewed this remarkable curator is conveniently located near several successful sporting goods stores. Shoppers stop in because of the sporty, eye-catching art displays in the window. Inspired sports fans are being introduced to the art world thanks to this ingeniously original project. The cleverly intriguing works offer a deeper realization: that the most routine activities such as watching the game, playing sports or the trip to the shopping mall are fragments of time filled with inspirational beauty.
Stems Gallery and Arsenal Contemporary Art NY have joined forces across the Atlantic to present an exciting group exhibition that includes twelve artists working across various materials and techniques including painting, photography and sculpture. The exhibition brings the worlds of art, fashion and sports under the microscope to explore the connections between them while offering an understanding of their unique significance within the contemporary visual arts culture. In a compelling on-site interview with curator Anais Castro, I explore the depths of this ground-breaking exhibit that has multiple other similar installments both in the United States and abroad. Situated in the hectic streets of downtown Manhattan, the gallery where I interviewed this remarkable curator is conveniently located near several successful sporting goods stores. Shoppers stop in because of the sporty, eye-catching art displays in the window. Inspired sports fans are being introduced to the art world thanks to this ingeniously original project. The cleverly intriguing works offer a deeper realization: that the most routine activities such as watching the game, playing sports or the trip to the shopping are fragments of time filled with inspirational beauty.
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Nere Basora is a singer of many different genres. This beautiful performer is also a daring thrill seeker, a music connoisseur, a world traveler and a dance hobbyist. A stylish adventuress who has a wonderful motto, she always takes pride in the philosophy of "Live, Laugh, Love." A pharmaceutical representative by day and a night club singer by night, Nere is the epitome of glamour, excitement, fun and talent. Blessed with a naturally perfect pitch, this vibrant songbird can be found singing in many Westchester hot spots including Ron Black's, The Mahopac Inn and Lucy's. Currently in the process of forming a band, her future goal is to perform with her group at various venues that are already making her offers right now. Free-spirited and vivacious, Nere has gone sky-diving, driven a motorcycle, traveled extensively, loves Zumba, attends drum circles and has created a meditation space in her home with soothing orchids. This unique interview took place right outside Ron Black's where she was going to be performing later on that evening. I am filled with gratitude for the honor of having this enchanting, talented, exciting and dazzling guest on my podcast!
State of the Arts Episode 104, The Thanksgiving Special just released! Arturo Herrera began his career in his college years when he took an interest in automotive technology. He chose to study for an associates degree in this profession and eventually followed in his father's footsteps by becoming a mechanic. Ford Motor Company awarded him with multiple Genuine Parts and Service certificates of achievement. With experience in many different environments, he is very well seasoned. He has worked in dealerships, gas stations and independently. Axtuo Ax is the YouTube channel he recently created that presents instructional videos. With some clever special effects and a little bit of humor, each video guides viewers along in the techniques of automotive repair. Beginning with an uploading quantity of a few videos a month, he has accelerated his posting rate to about ten videos a week. Now up to over five thousand subscribers, his channel continues to grow at an epic speed. Many companies, including Amazon, have reached out to him with offers of collaborations for advertising purposes. In a never-done-before outdoor, in-person interview I welcome this creative, intelligent and entertaining guest onto my podcast this week!
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State of the Arts Episode 103 just released! A majestic historical building that was once the Alexander Hamilton Customs House is now home to the National Museum of the American Indian which is a part of the Smithsonian Institution. Permanent and temporary exhibits in this breathtaking museum explore the diversity of the Native people of the Americas. A true commemoration of their cultures from the earliest times to the present is in this wondrous landmark. Native American artifacts, art and special social justice exhibits, some going back 12,000 years, are on display. Located in the financial district of Manhattan, this museum is easily accessible by subway, ferry, bus or for those who dare to drive in that bustling metropolitan area, by car as well. As research for this important episode my trusted co-host Anthony Bonilla and I explored the vast bounty of historical richness this memorable location has to offer. Educational, touching, heartbreaking, informative and amazing are only a few adjectives that could be used to describe this beguiling cultural experience. From information left out of our history books to artifacts from a couple of millenniums ago to an honorable tribute to Native Americans who served in the major 20th century wars to a new COVID crisis exhibit, the wealth of knowledge that can be found in this memorable site seems endless. A gift shop waits at the end of your visit. Handmade crafts, jewelry, children's toys, books, clothing and other keepsakes are sold in a large, welcoming, warmly-lit area. This episode is a tribute to The National Museum of the American Indian, a monumental place that fosters a richer shared human experience through a more informed understanding of Native Peoples.
State of the Arts Episode 102 just released! In 1968 poet and visual artist John Giorno created "Dial-A-Poem" which is a telephone service that communicates poetry to callers. The service began at the Architectural League of New York. "Dial-A-Poem" ended up being an art display in many prominent museums. A table with a few telephones were set up at each of these museums for patrons to listen to recordings of poetry from many different authors (including John Giorno himself). More than one million people used this service in the comfort of their own homes and workplaces however, which inspired a range of similar services to be created. These services include "Dial-A-Joke," "Dial Sports" and "Dial-A-Horoscope." In 1969 after a review was received for "Dial-A-Poem" in the New York Times, they received millions of calls which caused 250,000 busy signals on the first day. In the 1980's, John Giorno released fifty albums of "Dial-A-Poem" poets to encourage people to start their own "Dial-A-Poem" hotlines. John Giorno passed away in 2019, but not without etching his legacy into the scene of New York art. Not only was he the creator of the successful not-for-profit Giorno Poetry Systems, he was also the subject of Andy Warhol's film "Sleep." This long-time practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism was a prominent activist in the cause of AIDS awareness as well. "Dial-A-Poem" has been revived recently and can be accessed by calling 917-994-8949. This one-of-a-kind episode is an homage to this awe-inspiring artist and his work.
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This week State of the Arts pays a warm tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and to her contribution to the arts in the United Kingdom and abroad. I'm joined by Regina Elizabeth King who is a leading expert and historian on Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The distinguished monarch oversaw decades of the British National Theatre's growth and productions. Not only a patron of the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Art Fund, she also endorsed over thirty arts organizations. Theatres all across the United Kingdom dimmed their lights upon her passing. Museums temporarily shut down or offered condolence guest books for tourists to sign. Her Majesty's attention to the arts helped raise revenue for otherwise unknown art establishments. Many schools for the visual and performing arts bear the royal title because of Her Majesty. My own mother Caroline Osborne attended the British Royal Academy of Music in Hong Kong where she trained to be a classical pianist. Through Queen Elizabeth II's seventy-year reign she opened the National Theatre, attended thirty-five royal variety performances and frequented West End Productions. There are various depictions of the late Queen herself in paintings, poems, plays, movies, television shows and books. Regina Elizabeth King and I pay our respects to the beloved leader of the United Kingdom in this mesmerizing new episode of State of the Arts.
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State of the Arts Episode 100; The Halloween Special just published! To commemorate this very special milestone I welcome my husband, music composer Joe Grado Jr., to my podcast this week. Over a year ago he began rescoring the 1922 silent horror film Nosferatu, which was an assignment given to him by his teacher, Hollywood composer Joel Diamond. This German expressionist horror movie, which was by F. W. Murnau, was a vexing adaptation of Bram Stoker's Dracula. With no gore and very mild violence, the creators of this movie relied on the power of suggestion to convey its frightening storyline. Extremely edgy for the 1920's, many risqué topics are addressed in Nosferatu as well. Joe's beguiling score has many classic elements with flavors of modern, resulting in an intoxicating blend of cinematic splendor. Listen to this thrilling new episode and if you have the courage, enjoy Nosferatu on Joe Grado Jr.'s YouTube Channel. The link to this YouTube video can be found on his Instagram page @joegradomusic. This scary classic film with its haunting new score will leave you with chills. I cannot dream of a better way to celebrate State of the Arts entering into the triple digits zone than to have my brilliant, talented and creative partner in crime on my show! I am deeply grateful for this memorable Halloween and this equally memorable milestone episode!
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State of the Arts host Derek Upright welcomes stand-up comedian, comedy show host, writer and co-producer of the Prohibition Comedy Show Kevin McGloin. He has traveled far and wide for comedy with no topic being taboo. From his bi-racial background to risqué political jokes, he brazenly takes on various subject matters when he ascends the stage. This graduate of Franklin & Marshall College was once a freelance writer for Valnet. Once a varsity golfer on his school team, he eventually volunteered his skills to teach golf to inner-city youths with the City Parks Foundation. With a degree in psychology, Kevin McGloin has worked in various people-oriented fields including the skin care industry, content creation sales, and online publishing. Tune in for an exciting new interview with this exciting new guest. At the helm of this fun-filled new episode is SOTA's beloved guest host.
State of the Arts Episode 98: The second half of the Mental Health Awareness Week Special just published! Decorator, Stylist, Lip Sync Performer and Dancer Albert Crocus Pena returns to my podcast with his inspiring life's story of overcoming both physical and mental illnesses to become a thriving artist, an encouraging community activist and a much loved social butterfly. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, this gregarious free spirit joined the military as a teenager, battled a life-threatening illness, eventually came out as gay when it was still considered taboo, was only given three months to live in 2013, had a liver transplant, coped with severe anxiety that caused excruciating panic attacks and has shown himself to be resiliently strong despite all odds. An epitome of strength, perseverance and courage, Albert Crocus Pena rose above the most difficult of circumstances to become an independent, energetic creative who shines brightly in the New York live entertainment scene, the fashion world and the interior design universe. With a large circle of friends, a stunning apartment he decorated himself, an adorable dog and many exciting new opportunities on the horizon, he embraces life to the fullest. I am so honored to have this dynamic hero on State of the Arts this week to share his message of hope, strength, positivity and triumph.
State of the Arts Episode 97: The Star Trek Special just released! Four enthusiastic trekkies converge over Gene Roddenberry's sci-fi juggernaut on State of the Arts! Derek Upright hosts this out-of-this-world episode along with myself, classic entertainment connoisseur Anthony Bonilla and my music composer husband Joe Grado Jr.! Together we boldly go where no SOTA episode has gone before as we discuss a vast array of topics; from which Star Trek characters we most identify ourselves with to recent technological advancements that were predicted in this ground breaking franchise. A gracious shout-out to Star Trek actor James Lee Stanley, who was a guest on State of the Arts a while back. Playing a Klingon, Bjorn and other extraterrestrials, he became a regular on Star Trek Deep Space Nine. From humble beginnings as a 1960s prime time show to an entire universe of movies, shows, comic books, cartoons, toys and conventions, Star Trek has reached explosive success in the past six decades. This episode is dedicated to Nichelle Nichols who passed away this year at age 89. She played Uhura on the original show and was the first African American actress to be cast in a leading role on main-stream television. Hats off to Gene Roddenberry for the creation of this ingenious phenomenon that has evolved into one of the world's most intriguing subcultures! A grateful declaration of thanks to my three beloved cohosts on this riveting new episode!
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State of the Arts Episode 96, the Mental Illness Awareness Week Special just released! Poet, short story writer, flutist and one of my besties Sheri Upright joins me for an in-person interview, along with her loving husband who is also my dedicated podcast co-host Derek Upright. In this inspirational new episode I take a dive into Sheri's universe of creativity. A universe she immersed herself in, beginning way back in her childhood. In her earlier years, she was a part of the undefeated East Meadow High School marching band that moved through 5th Avenue in famous New York City parades. For all the years she was a part of the band, they held a dynasty of first place victories against their competitors. One of her poems she shares in this episode is dedicated to this part of her life. In the poem "5th Avenue" she recalls the thrill of the entire experience. Being a stellar flutist, she participated in the New York State Music Association examinations where she nearly reached a perfect score. After graduating from high school as the salutatorian, she attended Hofstra University. From writing for her high school newspaper to a position at Hofstra collegiate magazine The Font, she evolved as a student writer. Her poetry and short stories won several prestigious awards. At Columbia University she took a poetry class as her odyssey as a writer continued. Eventually she completed a Master's Degree at Hunter College in Education. In this moving episode she reads a poem she had shared with her entire high school back when she made her salutatorian speech. The emotion-packed poem is about the transition from childhood to adulthood and the remising of days past. Her poem about the Brooklyn Dodgers, the team her grandfather cheered for, touched my heart on a personal level as they were my Dad's favorite team too. Derek and Sheri share personal, romantic moments as she recounts a piece of work she had attempted to write for him once and as he compliments her on all her inspiring attributes. In a candid conversation she reveals how writing helped her through the difficulties she faced due to her mental illness. So strong, positive, bright and caring is this admirable guest! The most touching episode of State of the Arts awaits to be listened to!
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State of the Arts Episode 95 just released! I had the great fortune of interviewing decorator, stylist, dancer, fashionisto and lip sync entertainer Albert Crocus Pena for the Hispanic Heritage Month Special. This former DJ began his lip sync performance journey at an event held at the Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance. Tyra Dominique Jackson and Tym Moss are only two of the many performers he has teamed up with. Ever the innovative creative, Albert Crocus has even developed his own form of dance that is derived from freestyle dancing. His eye-catching, fluid movements and bold fashion sense won compliments from Filipe Rose from the Village People. With his own YouTube Channel called "Albert Pena" he displays his creativity to the world. After overcoming social anxiety and surviving a liver transplant, this courageous Latino artist created a dazzling world of art and positivity. Glamorous disco lights, ornately fun decorations and cocktail lounge furniture gives his apartment a festive, playful atmosphere. An atmosphere that made our zoom interview delightfully enchanting. "Crocus" was the middle name he chose for himself as it is a flower that symbolizes happiness and cheer. Being an activist in the LGBTQIA community, he can be found at many exciting events. I want to give a huge thank you to this intriguing talent who brought so much flair, encouragement and inspiration to State of the Arts in this captivating episode!
State of the Arts Episode 94 just published! In this thrilling new episode my cohost Anthony Bonilla and I welcome Off Broadway actor, producer and creative director Matt DeRogatis. Teaming up with his mentor RJ Lamb, this mutli-talented stage maestro formed a non-profit organization called Ruth Stage in 2017, which has locations in both New York City and New Jersey. Matt DeRogatis is the chairman and creative director of this organization who produced three critically acclaimed runs of Lone Star by James McLure, followed by The War of the Roses with the help of RJ Lamb, and several Shakespearean adaptation, one of which was directed by Tony Award Nominees Austin Pendleton and Peter Bloch. Matt and RJ became the first stage producers to ever be granted the rights to Cat On A Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams. This was Ruth Stage's most recent production, after the Glass Menagerie. Sadly, RJ Lamb passed away a few months after his production of The Passion of Christ a few years ago. Matt DeRogatis has stepped into into his mentor's demanding position as creative director. Ruth Stage shines on today as a bright star of the deep universe that is the theatrical arts.
As all of you avid State of the Arts followers recall there was an Episode 57 and an Episode 59. The mystery of the missing episode has now been revealed! In Episode 59 I interviewed Jeff Free the guitarist of the Moonshine Runners, a Queens-based alternative rock band. Most recently I've interviewed the entire band for Episode 90. As a prequel to Episode 59, elusive Episode 58 has now been released! Co-host Derek Upright and I pay an homage to The Moonshine Runners in this episode as they prepare for their concert tonight at 8:00pm at the Brooklyn Music Kitchen. Drummer Noe, bassist Erik, guitarist Aaron and guitarist Jeff make up this hip indie New York group that will be taking center stage tonight. They will be performing their new single "Tough Love," along with other original works and covers. This is a never-done-before episode as it is the second half of a two-parter. This is also a ground-breaking episode because of its Saturday release. Never before have I released two episodes in one week. All you State of the Arts connoisseurs, alternative rockheads and Moonshine Runner fanatics, tune in and enjoy the ride!
Noopur Parikh began training in a form of classical Indian dance called Bharatanatyam at an early age. Any style of classical Indian dance requires intensive training for many years. Mastering this breathtaking art form was what she attentively dedicated herself to. With diligence and positivity she balanced dance with her other studies. Her education was attained at the St. Francis Institute of Technology, the Shri T.P. Bhatia Jr. College of Science, the Swami Vivekanand International School and The University of Mumbai as well. At Capgemini India she became a senior software engineer. However dance was her other masterful talent. As an advanced classical Indian dancer she can effortlessly dance folk dances also. In this captivating interview she shares with me her enjoyment of mixing classical dance with Bollywood music. Throughout the years she has excelled in many dance competitions, festivals and shows both in India and the U.S. Dance is her passion, so she appreciates all forms of dance. In New York she dabbled in salsa and discovered her love for the Argentine Tango when she joined the work study program at Strictly Tango NYC which was headed by legendary tango master Sergio Segura. This was where we met and became tango sisters! Creative, graceful, caring, fun and intelligent. That is Noopur Parikh. I am blessed with the honor and privilege of having her as my guest on State of the Arts!
Once a classmate of mine at PMT Dance Studio where we studied the Argentine Tango under the great Brenda Neville, Svetlana Keselman is my guest of honor on my podcast this week! Svetlana was a competitive ballroom dancer at an early age. She competed until she reached high school when she decided to take a hiatus. By the time she began attending NYU, she reentered the ballroom world when she joined the NYU ballroom dance team. Being multi-talented, she also worked for various publishing companies and was the rights manager at the Hachette Book Group. Aside from ballroom dancing, she eventually began to explore other forms of dance including hip hop, club-style salsa and the Argentine Tango. Expressing her creativity through the beauty of dance, she participated in many performances, social scenes and a New York City dance parade. With dedicated dance partners she developed her skills in a diverse array of dance forms. With an active voice for human rights, she is a supporter of many important causes of today, including the battle against racism and anti-Semitism. Being originally from Kyiv, Ukraine, the cause of brining peace and help to the Ukraine is one she holds close to her heart. Razom is an excellent charity that supports the Ukraine if anyone reading this or listening to my podcast episode is interested in making a donation or volunteering. Svetlana has traveled to many parts of the world and has a compassionate understanding of the multi-cultural Earth we live on. Sweet, vivacious, cultured and brimming with intelligence she has been such an extraordinary guest that I am privileged to have welcomed onto State of the Arts!
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State of the Arts Episode 90 just released! The Moonshine Runners are a Queens-based rock band that brings an edgy new sound to the world of rock while channeling echoes of Nirvana, the Foo Fighters and other classic legends. State of the Arts welcomes the entire band this week as we speak of their new single "Tough Love," their favorite performance ever, future projects and many other topics. Their next concert is scheduled for September 17th 2022 at Brooklyn Music Kitchen at 8:00pm. In a previous episode I interviewed Jeff Free, the Moonshine Runners' talented guitarist. In this milestone episode I am joined by the whole band including drummer Noe, bassist Erik and guitarist Aaron! This talented group of guys have made their mark all over the Tri-State area as a groove-filled, intense, alternative rock quartet. These versatile performers have a magnetic dynamic when they play together as a powerful rhythmic force of sound. They were selected to play in a battle of the bands and have traveled to many locations to perform. This is a milestone episode with a State of the Arts record-breaking number of four guests! I gladly welcome these gifted, fun-loving and dedicated musicians onto my podcast this week for a compelling new episode of State of the Arts!
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State of the Arts Episode 89 just published! On State of the Arts this week I am joined by Willy Wenwe Chen who was once my classmate at PMT Dance Studio where we studied the Argentine Tango under New York dance legend Brenda Neville. Always the creative, at an early age Willy went to Pre-College Julliard. He's a classically trained violinist who also became interested in dance. After attending NYU he was invited back to his alma mater to join the ballroom dance team where he ascended with his partner from Bronze to Open within several months. Some of their top-tier coaches included a future world champion and two future pro dancers from Dancing with the Stars. He also found romance on the NYU dance team when he met his beautiful future wife Kara Rose. They now have two graceful, creative children who are beginning to learn gymnastics. Showing himself to be exuberantly versatile, he was also an advanced hip hop, b-boy and break dancer. As the president of the Happy Arts and Science Center he made an impactful difference in the community. Having done so much for the Asian community and for artists, Willy is a pillar who deserves abundant gratitude and recognition. With a warm, appreciative welcome I greet my creative, positive, intelligent and genuine tango brother on my podcast!
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To commemorate Episode 88 I have written a parody of the song by 1980's New Wave Band The Nails called "88 Lines About 44 Women." My parody "88 Lines About 88 Podcast Guests" is a tribute and celebration to all the guests who have been on State of the Arts thus far. Co-host Derek Upright and I tip our hats to these wonderful people, these magnificent artists, these hard-working role models who have graced the airwaves of our appreciative podcast. I am forever grateful for them. In this epic episode we explore the history of parody writing, speak about The Nails whose song I parodied and brush upon various other topics from my own journey as a parody writer to potential future episodes we have in mind. This episode is concluded by my singing of "88 Lines About 88 Podcast Guests." This was a song I had written within a few hours and I had delved into my heart to find. A ground-breaking new episode with a never-before touched upon subject matter awaits your patronage!
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State of the Arts Episode 87 just published! Annabelle Santos is the founder and CEO of Spadét, a line of pure olive oil beauty and wellness products. This brilliant entrepreneur was inspired to start this 100% organic line of products when her own daughter developed a skin condition she couldn't find a solution for. As a biochemist with two degrees she used her knowledge to develop the Spadét collection, which had grown successful enterprise. As a skilled problem solver with a stellar track record of pioneering new businesses and implementing solutions to multi-faceted challenges, she uses her talents to continue to expand her innovative organic product line. Many clients report amazing health improvements while using her products, including a mother whose toddler's extreme case of eczema vanished. I myself have purchased her most recent creation: an all-natural bug repellent. For the first time in my life, I am going through a summer without a single mosquito attacking my skin! This intelligent business owner is woman of many talents as she also has a degree from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. A true believer of mindfulness, she practices and encourages meditation. A scientist, an artist, a scholar, a businesswoman, a mother, a wife, a marketer and thankfully the guest on State of the Arts this week. I am so privileged to have Annabelle Santos on my podcast!
State of the Arts had the privilege of having digital product designer, illustrator, 3D artist and motion video artist Adrian De Propertis as the guest of honor this week. This Pratt institute graduate currently studies at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology. Since the beginning of his studies he has excelled at motion graphics, digital illustration, advertising/package design, 2D/3D animation, and graphic design for print. With an expertise on many adobe and 3D programs he is on the cutting edge of the world of modern design and animation. Since his studies at the Pratt Institute, he exhibited his work as a featured student in Pratt Alumni and Outframe Outfront 2019. Originally from Melbourne, Australia this talented designer and animator is now based out of New York City. In the past he has been commissioned to design the packaging for hair care items, instant meals and several other products. His impressive client list includes Alabastra, Nuth'n Raman and Libertas Chocolate, just to name a few. Friendly, ambitious, creative and intelligent, Adrian has been an inspiring, fascinating guest whom I am grateful to have welcomed onto my podcast this week!
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This week I'm joined by Josh Berkowitz in an in-person interview at tranquil Turnure Park in White Plains, New York. He is prominent member of the Cos Play community. From conventions to photo shoots to starting his own Twitch channel Josh is immersed in the colorfully exciting world of Costume Play. Inspiration is drawn by him from anime movies and video games. At Spectrum Designs he is also a valuable part of the production team. Recently, after much hard work, he received a Certificate of Achievement from the American Screen Printing Association. This certificate of accomplishment was presented to him by Education Director Linda A. Berda. Also a world traveler, he has been to many exotic locations including Israel, Morocco and the Caribbean. Tune in for a fun, heartfelt conversation about the wondrous universe of Costume Play, the Twitch channel experience, future goals and advice for those interested in joining the Cos Play culture. This captivating, enthusiastic, intelligent and all around wonderful guest made this week's episode an absolute treat.
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This week my trusted co-host Derek Upright welcomes journalist, content manager, copywriter, producer and stand-up comedian Sarah Harvard to State of the Arts. This Japanese-Moroccan "Jill-of-all-trades" has a natural gift for comedy. A Nobel Prize nominee once encouraged her to enter into the world of professional comedy and even offered to pay for her education in comedy, which Sarah declined. With a richly original style, she avoids watching comedians on video so she does not end up subconsciously mimicking them. By using comedy to address serious subject matters she uses humor to help people stay strong in the midst of difficulties. On stage she finds opportunity to joke about her own insecurities and struggles, making stand-up comedy a therapeutic outlet for this accomplished comic. Her impressive achievements include being a senior writer for Comic Relief US, executive producing/creative leading Nervous Laughter, being a digital editor for the Al Jazeera Media Network and receiving three bachelor's degrees; one of which is from Harvard University. She acquired talents for NBC, CBS, Netflix, HULU, HBO, CBS and Hollywood. With much admiration and awe, I am extremely proud to announce that the guest of honor this week is this successful, brilliant, hilarious, outrageous, down-to-earth and delightfully engaging comedy star.
My guest this week is fashion entrepreneur Tisha Blake. This self-starting business owner is the sole proprietor of an online boutique called fashionstyleny.com. Her website offers glamorous, but affordable women's fashion for all body-types. With a diverse array of items including sundresses, sportswear, outfits for clubbing, jewelry and shoes fashionstyleny.com is like a candy-store for online-shopping fashionistas. This fabulous idea was birthed when she took a nine-week online coarse on how to build one's own business. Her enterprise has now grown into a booming shopper's haven with many steady customers. Also as a mother to a teenaged daughter, Tisha Blake plans to take her daughter under her wing to make fashionstyleny.com a family business one day. Future goals of this savvy business owner include mother/daughter modeling of outfits and an exciting launch of a personally hand-crafted, bedazzled t-shirt line. Tisha Blake is such a wonderful role model. This intelligent, ambitious, kind and dynamic African American female business owner is exactly what both the business and fashion world needs to continue to press forward to a more empowering future. I am so honored, delighted and overjoyed to have such a remarkable guest on State of the Arts.
State of the Arts rolls out the red carpet this week for stand-up comedian, actor and musician Dylan Adler. From belting out original show tunes to parody writing to hilarious spot-on impersonations to doing back flips on stage, there is never a dull moment when this Jewish-Japanese performer takes the spotlight. He has been featured on Hulu's "Eater's Guide to the World." The Vulture featured him as well. The New York Times also featured him alongside collaborator Kelly Bachman for a show they co-created that addressed the issues rape victims must face. He was also the composer for the Off-Broadway musical "Good Morning, New York." At the New York Comedy Festival he has been featured as a "Comic to Watch." A prominent member of People's Improv Theatre house team "Punch Funk," he performs musical improv with high-octane energy. Both the New York Post and Elite Daily featured him too. He is extensively educated in theatre, music, voice and other aspects of the performing arts. NYU Steinhardt is his alma mater where he was awarded the Alan Menken Scholarship. Acting host Derek Upright interviewed this comic enigma about his extraordinary journey. Tune in for a captivating episode where this brilliant one-of-a-kind artist opens up about his creative process, his ethnicity, being a part of the gay community, his own personal trauma, his triumphs, his art form and much more!
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State of the Arts Episode 81: The Father's Day Special just published! This week I am joined by my mother Caroline Osborne as we pay homage to my grandfather Sing Leung Lam. His unsung heroism during World War II, his breathtaking talent for calligraphy, his dedication to his career as a corporate executive in the British shipping industry, his knack for captivating storytelling, his respectful consideration towards all human beings and his touching devotion to his family will forever be etched into our family's hearts. Going way back into his family history, he descended from a long line of high ranking Chinese military officers. His father, my great-grandfather Lam, was an engineer in Hong Kong who designed luxury ocean liners. His mother was a lovely heiress who sadly passed away when my grandfather was only four years old. Growing up around a father with such an exquisite talent for design, my grandfather quickly picked up the craft of calligraphy. Extremely intelligent in all subjects and boldly artistic, he excelled in school. Right before World War II broke out, he graduated from Kings College with a degree in education. With a compassionate heart, he happily accepted a position as a teacher in an orphanage. This was where he met my grandmother, who was also a teacher there. During World War II, my grandparents fled with their orphan students, escaping the Japanese Imperial Army, one step at a time. They hid on mountains, in small towns and in the wilderness of mainland China. Kind-hearted locals provided them with food. There were some frightening close-calls. But, my grandparents managed to keep all of the children in their care alive and safe. At one point when my grandfather knew that his co-workers and his students were in an extremely safe location. So, he left them briefly to rush to a family matter. He received word that his stepmother, out of desperation, fear of the enemy and of starvation, made the horrific choice of selling his two sisters as child brides. Immediately he hurried to the farming village where they were forced to go to wed their much older husbands. On the way towards his rescue mission, he was kidnapped by Imperial soldiers and forced into excruciating manual labor for three days. In the darkness of a fateful evening, he managed to bribe a greedy soldier with his expensive watch to gain his freedom. Ultimately he reached his two enslaved sisters and snuck them away from their abusers. In two giant wicker baskets he smuggled the young girls out of the farming village to safety. He was eager to rejoin his coworkers and students. At one point an Imperial plane flew over his head. He had two possible places to take cover. In a split-second decision, he dove into one of them. The location he did not choose was the one that was bombed. After all this turmoil, terror and sheer hell-on-earth was over, he proposed to his courageous colleague, my grandmother Pak Sau Lam. Thoroughly impressed with him, a British shipping company, of both cruise and cargo ships, offered him a position in management. He ascended to be the highest ranking Chinese senior executive in the entire company. By the time he was retired many of his sons and daughters had moved to the United States. He and my grandmother joined them eventually. I'll never forget the outrageous stories he told of mystical creatures from Chinese folklore. I can still recite an ancient Chinese poem he taught me and sing the chorus from classic Chinese songs. When I have to multiply something I can only do it in Cantonese. He played two spoons as instruments while he sang the times table to help me learn. He set a great example. He would treat a custodian with the same respect he would treat a CEO. He imparted to me the value of believing in myself. Courageous, caring, organized, intelligent, patient, wise, resilient and encouraging. My hero, my role model. My grandfather.
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State of the Arts Episode 80 just published! Country music duo Kelli and Kayla Lutzwig a.k.a. Wild Fire grew up in a musical home. Their father is a musician himself who introduced his daughters to the country genre when they were children. In 2016 these guitar-playing, singing sisters formed a gigging, album-releasing duo called "Wild Fire." The President of the Texas Country Music Association described them as "one of the best up-and-coming young artist duos out there." They have performed at the Houston Rodeo, NRG Stadium, the White Oak Music Hall, the University of Texas Stadium, among many other venues. In 2018 they won first prize as Female Vocalists of the Year in the young adult category at the Josie Music Awards. NBC used several of their songs on "Very Cavallari." With the achievement of over one million streams on Spotify, their songs have been placed on multiple editorial playlists. In this fascinating episode, my co-host Derek Upright and I welcome this dynamic sister duo to State of the Arts. At the end of this episode Derek and I play our favorite songs by Wild Fire. We discuss what these songs mean to us and why we chose them. Tune in and listen to one interesting episode with two talented, driven and upbeat guests.
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Vince Chang is a successful Chinese-Jamaican stand-up comedian, actor and professional master of ceremonies. While attending City College, where he graduated Cum Laude with a degree in political science, he decided to take on the stand-up world. With a distinct style that is full of energy and upbeat, he regularly brings down the house at many venues. From his unique ethnic background to life experiences, no topic is taboo for this engaging comic. He has performed in many well-known New York comedy clubs since then and eventually joined the New Comic All-Stars. With them he performed out-of-state. Also an actor, he appeared on Manhattan Neighborhood Network, TruTV, What's Eating Harlem, a commercial for Otterbox and was on the Off- Broadway production "My Drunk GPS." A hard-working fellow podcaster, he hosts "Back Court Violation" on I-Tunes. Back in his college days he played D2 basketball for CUNY. After successfully stalling a crowd with jokes at a teenager's birthday party where the birthday girl took a very long time to change dresses, Vince Chang ended up launching a thriving career as an event master of ceremonies. In high demand all over the world, he travels internationally for many of these events. Recently he was bestowed with the honor of hosting a show for Olympic qualifiers on Twitch. My co-host Derek Upright and I graciously welcomed this tremendous talent to State of the Arts. We are thankful for the experience of having this hard-working, positive, witty and accomplished entertainer onto our show!
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In this riveting episode my guest is author, ancient Chinese military tactics expert and historian Ralph D. Sawyer, who delves into the captivating writings of the legendary Sun Tzu. Although the existence of this ancient Chinese general and author is debatable, Sun Tzu's timeless book "The Art of War" has been widely read throughout the centuries by countless leaders of every variety. Contrary to what many may say about this historical figure who existed in the B.C.E. time period, Sun Tzu was in actuality a proponent of peace. He emphasized the importance of solving conflict without bloodshed. However he offered solutions to those in the seemingly hopeless situation of an eminent attack from an adversary. His wisdom provides guidance in tactics and mindset unparalleled to any other military strategist to ever exist. "The Art of War" has been a popular read for many centuries among generals, presidents, monarchs, sports coaches, businesspeople, attorneys and others seeking help in conflict-resolution. Ralph D. Sawyer is my distinguished guest who I am so honored to welcome onto my show this week to pay tribute to this mysterious Chinese legend. Once a professor, now Mr. Sawyer has become a strategic consultant, an independent scholar and a lecturer in on Chinese military history. After a lecture at a military academy, he was encouraged by two officers to start his own YouTube channel which he did. An accomplish author, he has written a large number of published books including The Tao of Spycraft and Ancient Chinese Warfare. He has also authored numerous academic and journal papers. The Discovery Channel and BBC are two television stations that sought after him to be a part of documentaries. He was also hired to be the advisor on the set of the action movie Mulan (2020). I am grateful for this honor and privilege to have this accomplished, knowledgeable, pleasant and distinguished guest on State of the Arts!
In an unprecedented episode, my co-host Derek Upright and I welcome Derek's dad, David Upright to State of the Arts. David Upright was a power player in the advertising industry during its illustrious golden age. He found no need to watch the show Mad Men because he was there for the real thing. Feeling uninterested in the academics of college initially, he fortunately discovered his passion and talent for advertising with the help of a school counselor. Before he even graduated, he was hired in the creative end of the advertising industry. Music, recording, and animation were his loves. An impressive list of his prominent clients included Proctor and Gamble and General Mills. In fact, he wrote the lines for the Trix Rabbit. He also worked with the original people who did the animations for the Peanuts cartoons. In 1969, The Hollywood Radio and Television Society presented The International Broadcasting Award to him, honoring The World's Best Broadcast Advertisements. The art director, whom he worked with for over two decades, created a life-sized doll of him. David Upright recorded a song for this art director's fiftieth birthday. In 1994, David Upright went out on his own and began working with smaller clients. Aside from all his career accomplishments, he also married a beautiful and kind-hearted TWA flight attendant, then became the father of one of my best college classmates who is now also my dedicated podcast co-host. Also, he is deeply involved in dog rescuing, an honorable cause that his son also holds dear to his heart. I am overjoyed to have this creative, fun-loving, caring, cool and fascinating guest on State of the Arts! Thank you, David and Derek, for this memorable episode!
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Michelle Lema, the creator of @ArtWorldNYC brings her enchanting artistry to State of Arts. While she was attending college in 2018, she discovered the therapeutic joy of going to art galleries. In the cozy ambiance of coffee shops, she would edit pictures she took, research artists and make posts on Instagram. These captivating posts attracted many curious followers. Traction began to build. With over 16,000 followers currently, Michelle Lema is now promoting local art, embracing the role of a local attractions guide, hosting giveaways, collaborating, blogging and vlogging full-time. Showing herself fearless and strong, she left the corporate world to pursue her passion, she has also been skydiving and she used the popularity of her platforms to spread the word on important issues. During the height of the pandemic, she was able to use her established platforms to share information about COVID-19 and the Black Lives Matter movement. @ArtWorldNYC continues to grow today. Michelle Lema is an inspiring artist and businesswoman who truly understands the beauty, strength, wonder and excitement the New York City area has to offer the world. The first picture I saw of her was on Google. I immediately became a huge fan of hers. In a fun pose, she highlighted the playfulness of Sweet Cats Café in Queens, New York. This is a café I have been curious about and meaning to go to. With a keen eye for photography and aesthetics, she has an awe-inspiring way of putting a spotlight on the magnificence of any artistic location. With co-host Derek Upright, I welcome this tremendously talented, bright, stylish, lovely, enthusiastic and wonderful guest to our podcast!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Michelle Lema, the creator of @ArtWorldNYC brings her enchanting artistry to State of Arts. While she was attending college in 2018, she discovered the therapeutic joy of going to art galleries. In the cozy ambiance of coffee shops, she would edit pictures she took, research artists and make posts on Instagram. These captivating posts attracted many curious followers. Traction began to build. With over 16,000 followers currently, Michelle Lema is now promoting local art, embracing the role of a local attractions guide, hosting giveaways, collaborating, blogging and vlogging full-time. Showing herself fearless and strong, she left the corporate world to pursue her passion, she has also been skydiving and she used the popularity of her platforms to spread the word on important issues. During the height of the pandemic, she was able to use her established platforms to share information about COVID-19 and the Black Lives Matter movement. @ArtWorldNYC continues to grow today. Michelle Lema is an inspiring artist and businesswoman who truly understands the beauty, strength, wonder and excitement the New York City area has to offer the world. The first picture I saw of her was on Google. I immediately became a huge fan of hers. In a fun pose, she highlighted the playfulness of Sweet Cats Café in Queens, New York. This is a café I have been curious about and meaning to go to. With a keen eye for photography and aesthetics, she has an awe-inspiring way of putting a spotlight on the magnificence of any artistic location. With co-host Derek Upright, I welcome this tremendously talented, bright, stylish, lovely, enthusiastic and wonderful guest to our podcast!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Pak Sau Lam my grandmother is my guest this week. She is 100 years old. Because of some health issues she cannot be interviewed. So my Mom is standing in her stead. My grandmother was a selfless elementary school teacher, a war hero, a wife, mom, grandma, an advocate for human rights, a gifted knitter, a fashion design hobbyist and a descendent of the royal imperial family of the Qing dynasty. Tune in to this riveting episode to find out more about my remarkable grandmother.
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My co-host Derek Upright, who is an expert on Hollywood titan James Cagney, joins me this week in a tribute to this American symbol of entertainment. Born in 1899 in New York, James Cagney embarked on a career in movies, the stage, directing, productions and workers' rights activism. He won acclaim and major awards for a wide variety of performances, including an Oscar for his depiction of music composing royalty George M. Cohan in "Yankee Doodle Dandy." Hailing from a talented family, he has many relatives who are in the industry including a brother who was his agent, a sister who was a starlet and a great-granddaughter who is currently an indie actress. He married a dancer named Frances Willard Vernon in 1922. In a record-breaking union, they stayed married until his death in 1986. Starting as a child tap dancer on the humble streets of Manhattan, he eventually became an extraordinary jazz, society tempo and soft shoe dancer. On this special day for dancers all over, we give a warm salute to the legend who is James Cagney.
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Brothers Jon and Al Kaplan who are the parody creators, composers, lyricists and writers who graced State of the Arts with their presence on this monuments episode. The Kaplan brothers studied concert composition and film music at USC after moving to Los Angeles in 1996. They are the accomplished creators of Silence! The Musical which is an internationally-known off Broadway stage production of Silence of the Lambs. Their many creations include Musical Thrones: A Parody of Ice & Fire, Conan the Barbarian the musical, The Drone and Zombeavers. NBC also commissioned this creative brother duo to compose the music for the reality show Starting Over. Also under their belt is the music for the John Ford silent film Just Pals and a series of Walt Disney web advertisements. The Hills Have Thighs was a controversial film they scored that was aired on HBO, Cinemax, Showtime and TMC. Legolambs is the name of their playfully captivating YouTube channel which boasts over fifty-six thousand subscribers. Many of their clever parodies can be found on this popular channel. My trusted acting host Derek Upright welcomes these larger-than-life guests to State of the Arts on this thrilling new episode!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Brothers Jon and Al Kaplan are the parody creators, composers, lyricists and writers who graced State of the Arts with their presence on this momentous episode. The Kaplan brothers studied concert composition and film music at USC after moving to Los Angeles in 1996. They are the accomplished creators of Silence! The Musical which is an internationally-known Off Broadway stage production of Silence of the Lambs. Their many creations include Musical Thrones: A Parody of Ice & Fire, Conan the Barbarian the musical, The Drone and Zombeavers. NBC also commissioned this creative brother duo to compose the music for the reality show Starting Over. Also under their belt is the music for the John Ford silent film Just Pals and a series of Walt Disney web advertisements. The Hills Have Thighs was a controversial film they scored that was aired on HBO, Cinemax, Showtime and TMC. Legolambs is the name of their playfully captivating YouTube channel which boasts over fifty-six thousand subscribers. Many of their clever parodies can be found on this popular channel. My trusted acting host Derek Upright welcomes these larger-than-life guests to State of the Arts on this thrilling new episode!
This week my co-host Derek Upright and I welcome a music legend to State of the Arts. James Lee Stanley, who is a long-time friend of Derek and his family. This extraordinary talent has a successful career that spans for decades. From countless awards to playing alongside good friend Peter Tork to playing space aliens on Star Trek, James Lee Stanley has shown himself to be a Renaissance man. This vocalist, guitarist, singer and songwriter has thirty four album releases. In March of 1999, FI Magazine listed his Freelance Human Being as one of the best recordings of 1998 and one of the Top 200 Recordings of all time. In the Village Voice it was written of him, "It is simple really. With James Lee Stanley you get great songs, great guitar playing, great voice and a gifted comedian as well. You are in for a very entertaining evening." He has performed with many diverse acts including Bonnie Raitt, Robin Williams, and Nicolette Larson. For three years in a row, Steven Wright selected him to be his opening act. A well-rounded artist in every sense, he also has a keen talent for sketching. Not to mention his appearance on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine where he played a singing Klingon, a tall Bejoran and other extraterrestrials. His blog has also drawn over 1,100,000 hits since its genesis back in July 2008. With a huge thank you to my co-host Derek Upright, I want to express my gratitude for having this legendary, clever, gifted and accomplished icon on my podcast.
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State of the Arts Episode 71 just published! One Martine Gallery is a contemporary and pop art gallery that recently sprung up in the rapidly developing city of White Plains, New York. This week's guest is none other than the curator of One Martine Gallery, Walker Manzke. For over a decade, White Plains has been growing into a bustling metropolis. An elegant office building stood vacant at the end of Martine Avenue for a while. A building that Walker Manzke's business partner, real estate developer Martin Ginsburg, eventually converted into luxury apartments. In the lobby of this building is One Martine Gallery which is not only for residents to enjoy but for anyone who would like to explore this not-so-hidden gem. This charming gallery features original works, limited editions, emerging art, sculptures and decorated objects. The intimate, enchanting space can be rented out for special events as well. The gallery is both tastefully whimsical and captivating at the same time. Walker Manzke favors local artists and also reviews work for consignment. In fact, every piece on display is up for sale. Work from his roster of artists is exhibited on a rotational basis. Seeing the bigger picture in the future, he has a goal of bringing more artwork to White Plains and breathing new life into the small visual arts scene in our growing city. More public art displays, a surrounding cultural scene and a world of opportunities for rising new artists are all goals he along with other dedicated collaborators are working towards. When One Martine Gallery hosted its opening day, both the Mayor of White Plains and the Governor of New York were in attendance. I am so very pleased to have interviewed this ambitious, cultured, friendly and intelligent art director on this fascinating episode of State of the Arts.
In honor of International Transgender Day of Visibility, I welcome singer and community activist Regina Elizabeth King to my show. Originally from Guyana, this courageous transgender woman was subjected to discrimination from family, in school and in her community. Finding comfort in the art of singing, she discovered her talent at a young age. Her skill was developed in a church where she sang gospel songs. Keeping singing as a hobby, she ultimately became a master chef and secured a prestigious position in the luxury hospitality industry. Diplomats and government officials were the patrons at the fine dining establishment where she practiced the culinary arts. In 2014 she immigrated to the United States under asylum. As a resident of New York, she made her mark in the performing arts community, singing at popular venues including The Stonewall Inn and the LGBTQ Community Center of Manhattan. On this episode, Regina sings two beautiful surprise songs acapella. With a deep admiration for Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, this graceful pioneer chose to legally change her name to "Regina Elizabeth King." "Regina" is the Latin word for "Queen." Not only a fabulous diva, but also a highly educated intellect, she studied economics at the Carnegie School of Economics, business at the Long Island Business Institute, and is currently earning an advanced degree in early childhood education. She is also an extremely sought-after child care specialist. I am filled with gratitude to have this heroic, multi-faceted, articulate and lovely guest on my podcast this week!
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This week State of the Arts honors a Hollywood legend who passed away last year on New Year's Eve, just a few weeks shy of her 100th birthday. Betty White's career spanned seven decades and she was the first female producer/director of a television show. With humble beginnings, Betty Marion White was born in Oak Park, Illinois, served as a volunteer during World War II and struggled to find work on radio shows before getting her big break. in 1949 she began co-hosting with Al Jarvis on his live daily TV show "Hollywood on Television." She made her mark in Hollywood as she navigated through a colorful career filled with sitcoms, game shows and variety shows. On The Betty White Show, which was one of the variety shows she produced and hosted, she featured an African-American performer despite the racist backlash she received. When Southern stations threatened to boycott her show, she courageously told them, "Live with it." She was an Emmy-award winner, an animal rights activist, a close friend to Lucille Ball and was bestowed the title of "Honorary Mayor of Hollywood." Eventually she became Hollywood's sitcom queen as she played major roles in The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls, Ma Ma's Family and Hot in Cleveland. With a few supporting roles in movies, guest appearances on popular TV installments and even a few minor serious roles, she found herself dabbling in just about every area of acting in Tinsel Town. This week my co-host Derek Upright and I honor the legacy of "The First Lady of Television."
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This week I release a sweetly successful podcast episode with master baker, pastry chef and cake designer Oscar Martinez Juarez as my extraordinarily creative guest. He is the head baker at the Iron Tomato, which is a gourmet Italian bakery and market in White Plains, New York. Oscar and his team provided the elegant cakes for my long-awaited wedding reception/first anniversary party in 2021. For years he has creating cakes for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, retirement celebrations and other important events. This confectionary extraordinaire was once commissioned to create a guitar-shaped cake for local music and Yankee baseball legend Bernie Williams. The creative designs of his many masterpieces include a witch-themed Halloween cake, a gangster movie birthday cake, a crying emoji going-away cake and a graduation cake that literally looks like a book with a pencil His Instagram posts consist of one breath-taking creation after another. The other desserts he creates are equally as magnificent looking and tasting as his cakes. From Sesame Street character cookies to a giant pastry-filled cannoli shell to extravagant cupcakes, his tempting creations are irresistibly delicious. In fact, just this week, my husband Joe and I enjoyed Oscar's St. Patrick's Day and St. Joseph Day desserts. What a satisfying treat it was to have this dessert expert sprinkle my podcast episode with his enthusiasm, dedication, humility, kindness and creativity!
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Esther Kong Lo is an award-winning sculptor, illustrator, ballroom dance competitor/performer and my brilliantly creative podcast guest this week. An honors graduate of the Pratt Institute and a former student of the National Academy and Arts Students League, she has taken on the visual arts universe by storm. This acclaimed artist is the winner of many awards including the Harriet Frishmuth Memorial Award and the 2016 ArtsWestchester Arts Alive Individual Artist Grant. Many of her works are a celebration of femininity itself. For Women’s History Month in 2019, she was the curator and exhibiting artist in “SheVoices - Expressions of Femininity” at the Brother Kenneth Chapman Gallery. She was one of twenty-five artists chosen from around the world to be featured in “Arts That Lifts The Spirits” presented by Manhattan Arts International as well. All her works have very important social, political or personal messages including her “Faces and Identities” exhibit which promotes intercultural understanding. This vibrant wife, mom and grandmother is also a competitive international-style ballroom dancer. She has performed and competed with many professional partners. But her best partner is her talented husband Chi Mon. On her free time she enjoys world travel, gardening, photography and spending time with her wonderful family. I am truly blessed to have this cultured, intelligent, innovative and graceful guest on this special podcast episode!
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I welcome to my show a world traveling photographer who worked as an attorney for forty years and invested in advanced photography equipment upon his retirement. Joel Bernstein has always had a fascination for photography and eventually accomplished travel to all seven continents. This cheery globe trotter photographs breathtaking images of wild life, landscapes, icebergs and even domestic photographs of New York City where he lives with his equally adventurous wife. Despite the pandemic, he was still able to find many opportunities to capture images of the beauty that the city that never sleeps has to offer. Along with his son-in-law Derek Upright and daughter Sheri Uptight, I embark on an exiting interview with this gleeful international explorer. Tune in for a thrilling episode about turbulent ship voyages, mountain ascension, the magnificence of animals and the charm of the Big Apple. With great enthusiasm I interviewed this daring, kind-hearted and marvelously talented guest on my podcast this week!
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R & B music began in the late 1940s and is one of the most integral parts of African American music history. This week I welcome young, gifted, up and coming R & B singer/rapper Mali who has recently released his first music video on YouTube. His single "Every Move" can be found on his channel which is called Mali Mgmt. He has various other singles that can be found on multiple platforms. An artist not only in music, but also in the crafts of painting and illustration, Mali was a Pratt Institute Scholarship recipient. Breaking the record for best attendance, he made his mark at the prestigious visual arts school. His fun piece of work, cleverly called "Sneaker World," was selected to be displayed in The Morristown Museum. He hails from an artistic background as his mother is former State of the Arts guest Lonai Mosley who built an artistic empire, his grandfather was in a do wop group and many of his other family members are involved in the arts. To commemorate this important month, I am happy to have this ambitious rising new talent on my podcast!
I am overwhelmed with gratitude to welcome OBIE Award-winning actress and co-founder/Artistic Director of The Theatre for the New City Crystal Field onto my podcast. With this learned Julliard graduate, who has multiple degrees and extensive acting experience (once turning down a role on Broadway) as its leader, Theatre for the New City has produced over eight hundred productions, boasting a Pulitzer Prize along with forty-three OBIE awards in every area of the theatrical arts. Tim Robbins, Vin Diesel and Adrien Brody are only some of the well-know talents who had their start at The Theatre for the New City. This unique theatre is responsible for many major New York City artistic events including the Lower East Side Festival of the Arts and the Annual Native American Pow-Wow. It also has a multi-disciplinary format of an Arts Education Program created by its fearless leader. The theatre's award-winning 5-Borough Annual Free Summer Street Theatre Program, which tours through under-served neighborhoods, is directed, choreographed and authored by Crystal Field. Countless awards have been bestowed upon this artistic pioneer from the Acker Lifetime Achievement Award to the Tabula Rase Progressive Award. What an experience of a lifetime it was to have this heroine for the theatrical arts on my show.
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Episode 63: The Valentine's Day Special Just released! Romantic love has always been the most favored theme in plays, songs, statues, movies, paintings, dances, poetry, photography and all other art forms imaginable in every single culture. This week my wonderful husband Joe and I embark on a historical exploration of romantic love depicted in the arts. We touch upon a wide array of topics; from the romantic period of music to the role partner dancing has played in courtships through the centuries. Together we also watch and comment on the first movie ever created, which was a less-than-a-minute-long, romantic silent film called "The Kiss." At the end of this enchanting episode is a spoiler alert for a secret project with a romantic theme that we are working on together. This project will most likely be revealed before the end of 2022. Join us on this podcast episode which is more of an adventure through the intriguing world of romantic art.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Episode 64: The Valentine's Day Special Just released! Romantic love has always been the most favored theme in plays, songs, statues, movies, paintings, dances, poetry, photography and all other art forms imaginable in every single culture. This week my wonderful husband Joe and I embark on a historical exploration of romantic love depicted in the arts. We touch upon a wide array of topics; from the romantic period of music to the role partner dancing has played in courtships through the centuries. Together we also watch and comment on the first movie ever created, which was a less-than-a-minute-long, romantic silent film called "The Kiss." At the end of this enchanting episode is a spoiler alert for a secret project with a romantic theme that we are working on together. This project will most likely be revealed before the end of 2022. Join us on this podcast episode which is more of an adventure through the intriguing world of romantic art.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts Episode 62 just published! I’m joined this week by a hip hop dancer, former model and fitness trainer who built an empire. Sebastian Kruse is the founder of Be Fit and Sensual, which is a physical and mental training organization for dancers from all around the world. After graduating from the Norwegian School of Sports Science, he established a successful career in fitness, dance and modeling. Eventually he realized all dancers at one point or another have physical, financial and mental needs that are not being addressed. Along with a group of talented fellow dancers whom he befriended, he formed this successful enterprise that helps dancers meet those needs by achieving all their goals. Although he and some of his team members are based out of Cape Verde, West Africa, they have thousands of virtual students on six continents. They are also in the process of starting a charity that works with children. The countless success stories of professional dancers, hobbyists and dance entrepreneurs continue to pour in as this upbeat, cutting-edge business grows. I draw much inspiration from my savvy, uplifting and motivational guest whom I had the privilege of welcoming onto my podcast this week!
I am overwhelmed with gratitude to be joined this week by Brenda Neville who is an accomplished performer, instructor, choreographer and entrepreneur in the dance industry. This cum laude Butler University graduate has choreographed and danced in multiple prestigious ballet companies including Covenant Ballet. An all-around talented artist, this studied acting and singing at the Lee Strasberg Actor’s studio. Flamenco, ballroom, world dances and the Argentine Tango are other dance styles she has trained in. Not only has this ABT certified teacher performed all over with renowned dancers, many of her students have been accepted into reputable dance programs, colleges and companies. She also became a leading pointe shoe fitter in the entire industry and was featured in Ron Howard’s documentary, “On Pointe.” Brenda Neville is the founder of Neville Dance Theatre and was at one time my Argentine Tango instructor. Her inspiring method of instruction, positive attitude and the fine example she set helped me become the ballroom dance instructor I am today. With great joy and appreciation I welcome this New York City dance icon to my podcast!
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Terry Lee King also known as The Legendary Amazin’ Grace joins me in this delightful milestone episode. This award-winning drag queen is also a stage actor, director, script writer and has hosted multiple productions. This community activist does charity work with HIV and AIDS patients. He courageously lives with this condition himself while staying joyful, active and strong. In an Underground Ballroom competition in New Jersey, Amazin’ Grace was crowned Legendary. Talent for the performing arts runs in Terry Lee’s family as his mother was singer, dancer and actress Jewel Lopez King. His mother was his inspiration and role model. Not only was Terry Lee King my magnificently talented, heroic, admirable and charming guest this week, he is also a total sweetheart who I am overjoyed to welcome to my podcast episode.
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Terry Lee King also known as The Legendary Amazing Grace joins me in this delightful milestone episode. This award-winning drag queen is also a stage actor, director, script writer and has hosted multiple productions. This community activist does charity work with HIV and AIDS patients. He courageously lives with this condition himself while staying joyful, active and strong. In an Underground Ballroom competition in New Jersey, Amazing Grace was crowned Legendary. Talent for the performing arts runs in Terry Lee’s family as his mother was singer, dancer and actress Jewel Lopez King. His mother was his inspiration and role model. Not only was Terry Lee King my magnificently talented, heroic, admirable and charming guest this week, he is also a total sweetheart who I am overjoyed to welcome to my podcast episode.
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State of the Arts Episode 59 just published! My guests this week are guitarist Jeff Free of the Moonshine Runners, an alternative rock band based out of Queens, and his beautiful newlywed bride, Brenda. The Moonshine Runners were formed a few years ago. Their debut song was “Can’t Believe,” which was an original. They ascended to the finals in The Battle of the Bands Competition at the Music Hall of Williamsburg. This event was hosted by the Robert J. Efros Foundation. Recently they have reached three thousand followers on Instagram. On the horizon for this rising young band are music videos and national tours. Brenda shows her support for her husband’s music career by attending and helping out at many of his gigs. She is also a classically trained guitar hobbyist, a painting enthusiast and enjoys makeup artistry. I am so glad to be joined this week by this lovely, positive, hard-working and creative couple!
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My guest this week is an actor, a singer, a songwriter, an LGBTQ community activist, an associate at the Imperial Court of New York, a board member at the Metropolitan Community Church of New York, a board member at the Big Apple Performing Arts-NYCGMC and a board member/first tenor for the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus. He is The multi-talented Nelson Gonzalez a.k.a. Domingo Diaz Jr. Aside from being a skilled performer, board member, writer and activist, Nelson is also a master chef who studied at the New York Restaurant School. In 2013 he founded Sofrito, an online magazine devoted to the Latino culinary arts. He interviewed many prestigious Hispanic chefs including Master Chef winner Claudia Sandoval for Sofrito. Once a manager of a popular NYC restaurant, Nelson is also familiar with every aspect of the restaurant industry. As an actor/singer he has participated in many shows throughout the years, from a childhood production of West Side Story to his most recent role in Terry Lee King’s musical, Dragita which I had the privilege of seeing. In addition to his talent for acting and singing, Nelson is also a stellar Latin dancer. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have such an amazingly talented, accomplished, intelligent and all-around wonderful guest on my podcast this week!
My guest this week is an actor, a singer, a songwriter, an LGBTQ community activist, an associate at the Imperial Court of New York, a board member at the Metropolitan Community Church of New York, a board member at the Big Apple Performing Arts-NYCGMC and a board member/first tenor for the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus. He is The multi-talented Nelson Gonzalez a.k.a. Domingo Diaz Jr. Aside from being a skilled performer, board member, writer and activist, Nelson is also a master chef who studied at the New York Restaurant School. In 2013 he founded Sofrito, an online magazine devoted to the Latino culinary arts. He interviewed many prestigious Hispanic chefs including Master Chef winner Claudia Sandoval for Sofrito. Once a manager of a popular NYC restaurant, Nelson is also familiar with every aspect of the restaurant industry. As an actor/singer he has participated in many shows throughout the years, from a childhood production of West Side Story to his most recent role in Terry Lee King’s musical, Dragita which I had the privilege of seeing. In addition to his talent for acting and singing, Nelson is also a stellar Latin dancer. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have such an amazingly talented, accomplished, intelligent and all-around wonderful guest on my podcast this week!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
My guest this week is an actor, a singer, a songwriter, an LGBTQ community activist, an associate at the Imperial Court of New York, a board member at the Metropolitan Community Church of New York, a board member at the Big Apple Performing Arts-NYCGMC and a board member/first tenor for the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus. He is The multi-talented Nelson Gonzalez a.k.a. Domingo Diaz Jr. Aside from being a skilled performer, board member, writer and activist, Nelson is also a master chef who studied at the New York Restaurant School. During the 2020 lockdown he founded Sofrito, an online magazine devoted to the Latino culinary arts. He interviewed many prestigious Hispanic chefs including Master Chef winner Claudia Sandoval for Sofrito. Once a manager of a popular NYC restaurant, Nelson is also familiar with every aspect of the restaurant industry. As an actor/singer he has participated in many shows throughout the years, from a childhood production of West Side Story to his most recent role in Terry Lee King’s musical, Dragita which I had the privilege of seeing. In addition to his talent for acting and singing, Nelson is also a stellar Latin dancer. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have such an amazingly talented, accomplished, intelligent and all-around wonderful guest on my podcast this week!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts Episode 56, The New Years Special just published! Broadway composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim was a timeless legend. His famous works include West Side Story, Sweeney Todd, Follies, Merrily We Roll Along and A Funny Thing Happened to Me on the Way to The Forum. Many of his shows were converted into Hollywood silver screen films. Throughout his life, he has received an Academy Award, eight Tony awards, eight Grammy awards, a Pulitzer Prize, a Laurence Olivier Award and a Presidential Medal of Freedom. There were also a few movies he scored the music for such as Dick Tracey and Reds. Sadly, this 91 year old enigma passed away peacefully this year on November 26th. I’m joined on my podcast this week by returning guests Anthony Bonilla and Derek Upright, who are two performing arts connoisseurs and former academic theatrical artists, to honor this beloved musical master. Tune in for a touching, heartfelt New Years Eve episode that toasts one of Broadway’s most celebrated wonders!
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State of the Arts Episode 55: The Christmas Special just released! This episode is dedicated to everyone who is battling or have battled breast cancer. My guest this week is Catniss Locati. She is an areonip architect, which is a tattoo artist who designs new nipples and areolas for women who have had mastectomies. “Areonip” is a word that she coined herself. Her extensive experience in the fine arts makes her a high quality micropigmentation specialist and areonip architect. Also a talented art instructor, she teaches painting, drawing and sewing in the Connecticut area. Group classes, individual lessons and children’s classes are offered by her budding new business. After many decades of being a photorealistic painter, she has accumulated thousands of original works. In addition to these accomplishments, Catniss has been commissioned to create many public and private murals. The holder of the title of Miss Montana USA 1981, she has been deeply involved in the beauty industry her entire life. I’m thrilled to have this creative, compassionate, intelligent and accomplished guest on my podcast this week!
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State of the Arts Episode 54 just published! I am honored to have interviewed Robert Venuti, who is the owner of Carmine’s Italian Deli in the cozy, rustic town of Elmsford, New York. He has transformed this local staple into a cocktail lounge, a catering hall, a comedy club, a family restaurant and a rehearsal space/concert venue for his rock band The Surf. During the uncertain days of the 2020 pandemic lockdown, Robert started a YouTube channel teaching viewers how to cook delicious Italian cuisine on a tight budget. In addition to all these amazing accomplishments, he is also a fourth level black belt in Tai Kwon Do. As a martial arts master, he had taught many classes and traveled extensively to Asia. Always the entertainer he incorporates some of his martial arts moves into his performance when he sings with The Surf. I was privileged to have interviewed this dynamic, magnetic, smart and witty talent in person at his deli. He possesses a refreshingly unique combination of western charisma and eastern wisdom. It’s such a blessing to have such an amazing guest on my podcast!
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State of the Arts Episode 53 just published! This week I’m joined by Mehrvash Janati who is an entrepreneur in the Persian rug industry and a painter. Mehrvash’s family has been involved in the timeless art of Persian rug preservation, cleaning, sales and creation for numerous generations. An expert, a dealer, a preservationist and for one sitting: even a craftswoman, she has extensive experience in every area of this artistic and historically rich Iranian tradition. Also a talented painter, her abstract work compliments the beauty of the stunning rugs she is surrounded by. Her home is a sanctuary of modern creativity and ancient splendor. I am so blessed to have this amazing artist, brilliant businesswoman and wise historian on my podcast!!
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It’s been a year since I started my podcast! To commemorate this milestone event I take the spotlight as the guest this week. I have the honor of being interviewed by guest host Derek Upright who has been on a few previous episodes. In this unprecedented interview we explore my life’s journey as an artist, discuss how my podcast was birthed and I weigh in on important issues in the arts. My husband Joe Grado Jr., my dear college friend Anthony Bonilla and my wonderful new friend Sheri Upright make up an engaging studio audience who have questions of their own for me. Tune in for this remarkable, celebratory episode of State of the Arts which was recorded on the thirty-third floor of a beautiful Manhattan skyrise!
I’m joined in my home recording studio this week by guitarist, singer and songwriter Robert A. Washington. After spending his childhood as a free spirited music student, he developed into a masterfully versatile artist. He can be found playing in many hot spots in the Westchester area these days. In this heartwarming interview, he entertains us with a State of the Arts record-breaking number of four songs, including two very touching original pieces and two inspirational classics. These demo songs are on an acoustic guitar. But he is also very talented with the electric guitar. It’s a privilege to have this wonderfully gifted musician as my podcast guest this holiday weekend!!
To commemorate State of the Arts' 50th episode; I welcome to the comfort of my own home and recording studio, accomplished singer Crystal Comartie. From rap tracks to Broadway shows to American Idol, Crystal is no stranger to the limelight. Since the age of three she has been intensively trained in voice. Blessed with versatility, she sings gospel, disco, rock, jazz and pop. Talent runs deep in her family as her mother was a gospel musician, her cousin is a Broadway actress and her children are in various creative fields. She plans on releasing her own albums in the future with some original songs. What a treasure it was to have Crystal in my home for this epic State of the Arts episode! In this milestone interview, Crystal sings two demo songs with Joe Grado, my pianist husband, accompanying her. Crystal's beautiful rendition of "At Last" by Etta James, is dedicated to Joe and me for our first wedding anniversary, which was also this week. Along with my two good friends, Derek and Sheri Upright in the audience, I graciously welcome this extraordinarily gifted guest to my show!
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This week I welcome acoustic guitarist Jason Jacob to my podcast. His intensive music background includes formal training at UMKC Music Conservatory, a full scholarship to the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music where he studied under Lily Afshar for his Masters degree and an Artist’s diploma at SUNY Purchase studying under world-renowned guitarist Frederic Hand. The impressive list of festivals Jason has played in includes the prestigious Picolleto Music Festival in Charleston, South Carolina and the Beethoven Club Competition where he was awarded first prize. He performed in masterclasses for the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet and was featured on Westchester County Television. Currently working as a guitar instructor, he has built a diverse, vast clientele. He can also be found performing at many venues all around Westchester County. I am delighted to have this creative, talented and personable guest on State of the Arts!!!
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State of the Arts Episode 48 just published. Lonai Mosley has built an empire. Marketing, videography, photography, visual arts, indie upcycled fashion design and arts education are the pulse that drives her enterprise. Her diverse, all-encompassing business is comprised of Dahya Pix.com, The Dahya Community and Dahya Visuals. Denim/African fabric fashion designing, brand marketing, logistics producing, writing, voice over acting, indie film acting, directing and conceptual organizing are among Lonai’s many talents. She was once the National Advertising Director for a start-up distribution company owned by Prince. This week I was blessed to have this mind-blowing talent with her wonderful, inspirational personality on my podcast!
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In 1935 a black and white horror movie was created as a sequel to the original, Frankenstein. The Bride of Frankenstein was a masterful piece of theatre directed by James Whale. In this Halloween special, I am joined once again by returning guest host Derek Upright who is a film connoisseur. Together we discuss this classic film which stars Elsa Lanchester and Boris Kalroff. We address every topic from cinematography to the moral implications of the storyline. Tune in for a creepy podcast episode about an iconic cinematic production.
My guest this week is Jennifer Rutheny who is a jewelry designer, sculptor and entrepreneur. Her luxury boutiques can be found in both Tarrytown, New York and Manhattan. Delightful flowers, adorable animals, breathtaking gemstones and daring prints; her stunning pieces capture the beauty of the natural world. Recently she has added fauna wall art to her impressive array of creations. Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic have commissioned her to design jewelry for boutiques on cruise ships. On the Galapagos Islands, Jennifer embarked on an exciting adventure, teaching jewelers how to make jewelry from recycled materials. When you enter her elegantly rustic shops, you will be transported into a world of organic splendor. There is also a very good chance you will be greeted by an outgoing silver Labrador retriever named Theo (short for Thelonious Monk ). Jennifer's adorable pet and store mascot just happens to be a YouTube celebrity! He's the star of "Think Theo Think," which has an astronomical number of views. I am overjoyed to have this the ambitious, intelligent, kind-hearted and extraordinarily gifted guest on my podcast this week!
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This week I am so pleased to be joined on my podcast by marketing consultant and life coach Emma Medina. This high school teacher and mother is the founder of The Emma Marketing Solution, which is a business that offers marketing services focused on social media as its medium. Emma is also a life coach who guides her clients into a positive mindset. With fitness being another one of her passions, Emma is a fitness instructor who puts out videos helping viewers develop their flexibility and stamina. Emma is well-trained in Tony Robbins' Knowledge Broker Blueprint. Needless to say, her methods for attracting customers, easing anxious minds and enhancing one's physical health are heart-warming, inspiring and uplifting. This episode with my enthusiastic, brilliant and charming guest was absolutely therapeutic for me after a hectic, taxing day!
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Along side Derek Upright, my guest co-host, I welcome Academic Actor, Director, Production Manager and Patron of the Arts Anthony Bonilla. Like Derek and myself, Anthony attended Manhattanville College. He became very active in the performing arts ever since he accepted the role of a sailor in "Anything Goes" at Cushing Academy. Since then, he has acted in, directed and produced many academic productions. These productions including "Guys and Dolls" and "The Talented Mr. Ripley." In this podcast episode, we speak in depth about the poignant rendition of Mary Gallagher's "De Donde?" which Anthony co-starred in as a mistreated United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement prisoner and also as a compliant bailiff. So relevant to our times, we chat at length about this riveting play. Anthony also addresses various other topics including the battle Latino actors face in Hollywood, Hispanics in the music industry, and a multi-cultural Broadway. With a deep appreciation for the performing arts, Anthony can be found viewing a variety of theatrical shows in New York. Anthony Bonilla is a sterling example of a Latino artist who courageously reaches for his dreams without abandoning his roots. He's a wonderful role model and one of the most honorable guests I have ever received on my podcast. I am overwhelmed with gratitude as I celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with my talented college friend!
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With great excitement I welcomed singer, guitarist, songwriter, parodyist, actress, comedianne and "professional smart aleck" Carla Ulbrich. Her songs and parodies cover a wellspring of topics from current events to everyday pet peeves to aspects of humanity to pop culture references. She has nine CDs that have aired on numerous radio stations including WFUV, BBC and Dr. Demento. Since the 1990's Carla has performed in many venues and festivals. She brought the stage to life at the Falcon Ridge Festival, Eddie's Attic, The Bluebird Café and many more. Cheryl Wheeler, Vance Gilbert and The Bobs are just some of the entertainers she has opened for or split the bill with. Not a stranger to the screen, she has worked as an extra on many productions, opened for Twiggy The Waterskiing Squirrel, appeared as a musical guest on multiple TV shows including "Up All Night with Rhonda" and appeared in Sharknado 2 (as human). Not letting the pandemic slow down her creativity, she has started a live stream, collaborated with other artists via zoom and created an album addressing issues everyone can relate to. Her engaging personality, charisma, cleverness and relatability made her a magnificent podcast guest!
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This week I am so pleased to be joined by actor, comedian, songwriter, singer, live event host, director, producer and LGBTQ community activist Tym Moss. He has been in various independent films including his most recent musical Junk. The star of a critically acclaimed cabaret show, Tym takes to the stage quite frequently. "If These Walls Could Talk" is a live stream talk show that Tym co-hosts with talented singer/performer Wendy Stuart. He has starred in music videos of original songs including "Buy and Obey" and "Free Again" which both can be found on YouTube. No stranger to the red carpet, Tym has stood in chic outfits with microphone in hand, interviewing many famous entertainers. From singing the national anthem to start off a Staten Island Yankees game to being a guest on "The View," Tym has a long list of impressive accomplishments. I am overjoyed and grateful to have this amazing, entertaining, fun-loving and accomplished talent on State of the Arts.
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State of the Arts Episode 41 just published! This week my guest is one of my most dynamic college friends, Ashley Westbrook who has a successful travel blog on Instagram and TikTok called DigiAshley. With a diversely cultured background, Ashley reveals her exquisite photography to the world with her captivating blog. Ashley has studied Shakespeare in London, spent an autumn in France and has been on several business trips in Asia. These are only a few of the locations she has visited. Between vacations, education, business and day trips, Ashley has explored countless intriguing destinations. Her photography speaks for itself. From breathtaking landscapes to curious local attractions, followers of Ashley's blog are always sure to find delightful surprises. The recent circumstances has not stopped my courageous friend, as she has been capturing all the natural glory and industrial marvels the New York area has to offer. An artist in so many ways, Ashley has also acted in and directed theatrical productions in the past. She has extensive education in the theatrical arts as well. I am so pleased to have the honor of interviewing this talented, creative and exciting guest on my podcast this week! #digiashley
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This week my guests are Chef Brandon Summers and his fiancée, one of my closest friends, Henrissa. They are the owners of Summers Henn Meals, which is a small food delivery service in Pennsylvania. From Pilipino dishes to salads to pasta to American classics to imaginative fusion delights, their meals span across multiple cultures. The menu is diverse and changes with each season. Fresh, organic, and even home-grown ingredients are used in all their cooking. Their business is based out of their own apartment where they create their delicious masterpieces in their humble kitchen. They cater events, deliver to offices and have acquired a solid client list of regular customers. This culinary power couple balances their lucrative cuisine enterprise with their other jobs. I am overjoyed to have interviewed them next to the beautiful Hudson River today. Tune in for a remarkable, encouraging and heart-warming interview with my two dynamic friends!
This week Derek Upright returns to my podcast to help me commemorate music's iconic pop-rock band The Monkees, who began their careers on a television comedic show created about a band called "The Monkees." The creators of this show gathered an eclectic group of actors and musicians to audition for the roles. They ultimately chose folk rocker/songwriter Michael Nesmith, folksinger/musician Peter Tork, British ex-jockey/former Tony Award nominee Davy Jones and former child actor Micky Dolenz. The zany characters these actors played and their uplifting music won the hearts of a massive audience. Eventually they became a touring, gigging, chart-topping band adored by millions. Derek, who is a Monkees expert and historian, had known the kind-hearted, multi-talented Peter Tork personally. All you nostalgic 1960's music fans and curious culture explorers, come listen to a touching episode about this band's rise to stardom, ability to touch the lives of countless fans with their positivity, timeless popular hits, enchanting personalities and fun-loving cult following! A special thanks to Derek Upright, the witty, knowledgeable and entertaining guest for making this one of State of the Art's most interesting episodes.
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This week I welcome back a returning guest: guitarist, singer and songwriter Sharon Ostrov. Besides being a frequent guest on the CTV show The Cool Spot, she is also the host and producer of the Staten Island Community Cable variety show The Music Express. Her two albums "Emotional Rollercoaster" and "Strawberry Obsession" are filled with her impressive original work. After being the founder of the North Shore Four years ago and partaking in many music festivals, she has now returned to the stage at West Fest 14. From nursing homes to popular hot spots like Doc Hannigan's Tavern, Sharon gigs at many well-known Staten Island locations. Tune in for this captivating podcast episode with this talented, groovy and exciting guest whom I am thrilled to have on State of the Arts!
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This week I'm joined on my podcast by gospel, rock, blues and disco drummer Dijon Smith. As a child, Dijon became interested in the drums when his grandparents brought him to church. So, he started playing around with pots and pans at home. Currently he has become a vital part of many church worship bands. Involved in multiple churches, he plays the drums for the Lord on a regular basis. This volunteer for The Road to Recovery once owned six drum kits which he ended up donating to people who needed them. He was rewarded for his generosity when he randomly ended up receiving a free new drum kit. On Wednesday nights he can usually be found at Curtis Winchester and Joe Piteo's Ron Blacks jam sessions in White Plains, New York. He also has experience with the base. Dijon is charitable, kind-hearted, talented and modest, making him such an incredibly pleasant and delightful guest. I am so pleased I had the honor of interviewing him this week on my show!
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Screenwriter Aleesha Dineros-Canuto joins me on my podcast this week to discuss her remarkable work. Educated at Stuyvesant High School and Baruch College, this talented young artist has written many screen plays including a new adaptation of the Tell Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe. On her website, two short films she created herself can be found: a light-hearted romantic comedy called "In A Flash" and a terrifying horror flick called, "Till Death." With experience in directing, camera work, editing and production as well, she created these two riveting indie shorts. An education in marketing has helped her understand the importance of marketing in the arts. Social justice issues are very important to her as well. In her script, "The Veiled," Aleesha addresses racism against Asians in this captivating, highly metaphorical thriller. She is now planning to pursue an advanced degree in screenwriting and continue to create her magnificent work. Brilliant, sweet, creative and original, Aleesha is an inspiring guest whom I am honored and thrilled to have on my show.
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I'm joined this week by Billy Little who is a celebrity impersonator, drag performer, fashion designer and painter. Billy has won multiple contest titles including Ms. Fire Island Elite and most recently Mr. Tropicana International. Being the first black member of The Imperial Court in Manhattan, he has stayed with this festive, entertaining organization for nearly thirty years. Once a student at the Fashion Institute of Technology, he now creates his own and a few other performers' costumes. The designs are always eye-catching and elaborate. Prince, Donna Summer, Michael Jackson and Wanda Sykes are some of the celebrities he has impersonated. He has also been in body-building competitions and enjoys creating wonderfully captivating paintings. Museums were Billy's favorite venues to practice painting as he was developing his art form. Billy Little has many talents and a delightfully engaging personality. It was a privilege to have a guest with so much versatility, charisma, wisdom, and creativity on my podcast!
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This week I am delighted to welcome my good friend and former Manhattanville College classmate Derek Upright who is a classic cinema connoisseur, a DC comic book buff and a peer specialist. In high school, he was involved in the performing arts, acting in various school plays. By the time he was studying at Manhattanville, he became a videographer for many campus productions. An expert on a vast number of films, Derek boasts an impressive watch list of thousands of movies. He's especially partial to classic cinema. With his charming wife Sheri, Derek lives in an elegant high-rise in the heart of New York City. His exciting metropolitan lifestyle includes Broadway shows, sports events, celebrity sightings, leisurely strolls through the Museum of Natural History and dining at a delicious Mexican restaurant in the lobby of his apartment building. It's an honor to have such an intelligent, friendly and sophisticated guest on my podcast. Listen to a remarkable discussion about a diverse array of intriguing topics!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week I am delighted to welcome my good friend and former Manhattanville College classmate Derek Upright who is a classic cinema connoisseur, a DC comic book buff and a peer specialist. In high school, he was involved in the performing arts, acting in various school plays. By the time he was studying at Manhattanville, he became a videographer for many campus productions. An expert on a vast number of films, Derek boasts an impressive watch list of thousands of movies. He's especially partial to classic cinema. With his charming wife Sheri, Derek lives in an elegant high-rise in the heart of New York City. His exciting metropolitan lifestyle includes Broadway shows, sports events, celebrity sightings, leisurely strolls through the Museum of Natural History and dining at a delicious Mexican restaurant in the lobby of his apartment building. It's an honor to have such an intelligent, friendly and sophisticated guest on my podcast. Listen to a remarkable discussion about a diverse array of intriguing topics!
This week my podcast guest is drummer, technology expert and former stand-up comic Alan David. A frequent visitor of the Westchester area, Alan jams with local legends and can be found in many popular hot spots. He has played with various music greats, including Gil Parris, Bernie Williams and Curtis Winchester. He has been in a few bands including his most recent, The Jaded Babies. By day he works with technology, by night he is immersed in the thrilling world of live music. Tune in for a riveting discussion about Westchester's local music scene, the life of a drum enthusiast, stand-up comedy and the fascinating life journey of a fascinating guest.
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This week I'm joined by Tom Sullivan who is a radio show host on WVOX, a stand up comedian, a comedy writer and a stage actor. He co-hosts the Crisis Help radio show alongside Fran Sisco. This uplifting show encourages positive thinking, perseverance and teamwork. When he was a social worker for New York City, Tom spent his nights entertaining audiences in comedy clubs and singing at cabarets. Embracing his passion for comedy writing, he always strove to come up with original work. He eventually became an actor in community theatre starring in various productions including "The Little Rock of New Rochelle," which was a play about the integration of the New Rochelle School system and a musical about the life of religious leader Anne Hutchinson. After a lengthy hiatus due to the pandemic, local theatre is eager for his return. Tune in for an inspiring discussion with this witty, affable and engaging talent who I am proud to call a guest on my podcast!
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My podcast guest this week is Ricardo Hanley Jr. who is a poet, published author, orator and social media artist. His poetry covers a diverse array of topics ranging from light candy for the heart to philosophical mind-benders to powerful statements concerning social justice. At the young age of twelve he began writing while being inspired by nursery rhymes and children's' books. He has now authored several published books including "What's Your Favorite Color" and "Silence Conceiving Symphonies, My Imprints of Existence." Keeping a strong presence on social media, he can also be found on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Wordpress, YouTube, Facebook, Medium, Pinterest, Etsy and Inkitt. With a talent for performance, he has participated in many public poetry readings. This founder of The Dollar Millionaire Project focused on Exponential Growth on Twitter and father of a young child can also craft poetry spontaneously when given a topic. He weathered the pandemic with optimism, awareness and gratitude. I am proud to announce that this masterful writer and exceptional orator has joined me this week on my show!
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This week I'm joined by local historian Dennis McKay who is a retired interior designer, former hotel manager and the florist who assembled my elopement bouquet. Together we explore the enchanting facts about this beautiful little city we call home. White Plains has three old banks that were converted into two restaurants and an art museum. It has many apartment buildings that were erected in the 1920's and still in use today. It has the most incredible library with a recently added coffee shop, art gallery on the second floor and an in-house television production studio. Major Revolutionary War battles were fought in White Plains. There is a magnificent Presbyterian Church with a graveyard that dates back to the 1800's. The night life in White Plains is exciting, with countless happy hours, live music around every corner and a diverse array of restaurants. Our fountains, our parks, our architecture and our culture make us the hub of Westchester pride. Tune in for a fascinating episode that honors the most beautiful city in the tri-state area.
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This week I'm joined by illustrator and founder of Nori Glory Art, Nori Abramson. A graduate of Long Island University, Nori is educated in art history and theory. She is now a graphics designer and freelance illustrator. Her artwork is fun, powerful, adorable and intriguing. From sci-fi warriors to superheroes, from Disney princesses to TV show characters, her art is a celebration of an entire culture. A regular at Comic Con and Sci Fi conventions, Nori aspires to be a part of the design aspect of cinema productions one day. This talented, ambitious artist also would like to have her work appear on fashion pieces and to possibly co-author a comic book. Tune in for an inspiring talk with a phenomenal talent. Nori discusses her social media platforms, her creative way of handling last year's pandemic lockdown, her current projects, future goals and her fascinating interests. I am delighted to have interviewed this free-spirited dedicated artist, whom I have so much admiration for, on my podcast!
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This week my podcast guest is my late father's best friend, softball buddy and fellow artist, David Colonello. Dave is a gospel saxophonist and pianist. He is also a retired music teacher. Not a fan of social media or public speaking, Dave steps out of his comfort zone to help me commemorate my late father, Edwin Anthony Osborne III. There is also a brief appearance of Dave's lovely wife Jean who speaks fondly of my Dad. Dave and Jean were beyond friends to my parents. I consider them an uncle and aunt. My fondest memory is of the performances at the Hometown Restaurant on Staten Island. At these performances, Dave played his saxophone and my mom played her keyboard while my dad and I danced choreographed ballroom routines. Jean sat in the audience, watching enthusiastically. It is so moving to have two such wonderful friends of our family on my podcast this week. It is touching to join them in honoring the memory of my loving father. Tune in for a heart-warming episode dedicated to Eddie Osborne, who taught me the importance of optimism, creativity, compassion and determination. This episode pays homage to the man who was my role model, my first dance partner, my confidant and my hero. My dad was a family man, a social worker, a humanitarian, a union activist, a world traveler, a published writer, a ballroom dancer/instructor, an athlete, a classic cinema fan, a science buff and a wildly talented amateur comedian. He is the blessing in my life I will be forever grateful for. On this Father's Day, my dad's memory lives on in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him.
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My guest this week is Bradley Jacobs who is the jewelry designer and founder of Bradleyware. He is also a photographer, videographer and a dedicated community activist. A champion for LGBTQ rights and autism awareness, Bradley stays very active in making a difference. For years he has worked at Spectrum Designs, where he started as a volunteer. Spectrum Designs gives many career opportunities to the spectrum community. With a strong presence on social media, Bradley continuously makes creative posts about these important issues and about his beautiful jewelry. Bradleyware offers cutting-edge designs made with fishing wire, pieces of belts and uniquely enchanting items. From a fun glow-in-the-dark look to sparkling glamour to rugged adventurousness, Bradley's jewelry has a wide range that can suit anyone's taste. Bradley photographs and films his creations in various environments, adding exciting background music. I admire Bradley for his positivity, his courage, his determination and his bold artistry. I'm extremely honored to have such an extraordinary guest on my podcast!
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This week my podcast welcomes my former Manhattanville College classmate and good friend Haronid Javier a.k.a. Yogi who is a hip hop/Latin dancer, choreographer, humanitarian and world traveler. Back in our school years, he was the founder of the successful Minds in Motion hip hop dance group on campus. He was awarded first place in the "Mr. Manhattanville" talent competition. He was also a flamenco dancer who excelled in all his creative endeavors. After graduation, he became the choreographer and an actor in a fascinating traveling production out west. This production was a remarkable piece of dance theatre that celebrated Egyptian mythology. Yogi was also a part of Sapphire, a Latin dance troupe that performed at colleges and events. In addition to being an international recreational traveler, Yogi works for Global Tassels which is an organization that helps youths from all around the world attend college. I am so pleased this week that this amazing, compassionate and artistic guest has joined me on my podcast!
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My guests this week are lead singer Lex Zion and guitarist Zachary Breiman of Lex and the Locals, the hottest 1990's rock cover band in Westchester County, New York. Lex, their gifted vocalist, had once ascended through two rounds of American Idol. She is also a karaoke DJ and plays the guitar as well. Along with receiving a degree in theatre from Bucknell University, Zach also studied music education and music therapy at Westchester Community College. He filled in once at a performance with Umphrey's MgGee. This performance was featured on rollingstone.com. Lex and the Locals has taken on the Westchester community by storm with performances at Victor's, Curry on Purdy and Bar'Lee's. There are original songs on the horizon for them and many more local performances. Tune in for this thrilling new episode of my podcast with two extremely talented and ultra cool guests.
State of the Arts Episode 24 just released. This week's podcast guest is talented makeup artist and aspiring actress Brandy Renee Baker. Brandy is the cousin of professional actors who appeared on Law & Order, Fatal Attraction, and other productions. Performance has always been an art form she was interested in. Courageously conquering her shyness by taking on one opportunity at a time, she moves towards her goal of becoming a professional actress. Karaoke nights, public speaking in church, and being her best friend Kelly Sisco's guest on WVOX are some of the activities she has partaken in. Being involved in a great deal of charity work, Brandy shows herself to not only be creative, but compassionate as well. Although her wellspring of creativity is endless, as she comes up with new nail art designs for her manicurist, teaches her adorable toy dog Sheldon tricks and plays with photo graphics as well. This episode is an uplifting experience because of such a sweet, artistic and positive guest.
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In celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, State of the Arts welcomes this week's guest, ballet director and choreographer Marla Hirokawa. A Cum Laude graduate with a degree in dance from the University of California Irvine, she has been the Artistic Director of Covenant Ballet in Brooklyn since 1987, when she founded the prestigious dance school. Since the creation of the Covenant Ballet Dance Theatre in 1989, she has created many original ballets. This episode focuses on The Nisei Project in particular, which premiered in 2001. The Nisei Project was a heartfelt tribute to her late father and his fellow Japanese American World War II veterans. Japanese American soldiers were put in segregated units. These units were the most highly decorated in the war and suffered the most causalities. Many of these young Japanese American men, especially those in California, were already living in government sanctioned incarceration camps with their families when they were drafted. They nobly served the United States despite the disgraceful discrimination they faced. They embodied the Japanese spirit of gaman (patience, loyalty and perseverance). The Nisei Project is a masterful dance dramatization of one of these brave soldiers' journey from innocent Californian teenager with a happy home life to a trained patriotic fighter whose family was ripped from their home and relocated by the government he was fighting for. With the help of Marla's sister, Laurie Hamano, The Nisei Project was brought to her home state of Hawaii for a traveling performance in 2003. At the end of every performance Japanese American Veterans were welcomed onto the stage to be thanked by Marla, the cast and the audience. In 2014, the ballet was revived and selected to be in The New York Fringe Festival. I am so proud that my Uncle Lawrence Lam was a part of this masterpiece which I watched enthusiastically with a group of friends and family members. I feel blessed, honored and privileged to have Marla Hirokawa on my podcast this week. Tune in for a larger-than-life episode with one of the most incredible artists I've ever had the pleasure of interviewing.
State of the Arts Episode 22: Mother's Day Special just published! This week an unprecedented, thrilling new episode of State of the Arts. I am joined on my podcast by my mother, Caroline Osborne who is a classically trained pianist, ballroom dance hobbyist, world traveler and classic cinema enthusiast. Born and raised in Hong Kong while it was still a British commonwealth, she grew up speaking both Cantonese and English. She was educated in private Vatican-run schools, always achieving high honors. Discovering a passion for classical piano at twelve years old, she was trained by private instructors hired by my grandparents. She ultimately passed all her exams at the British Academy of Music. She graduated from Saint Francis College with an honors degree in Liberal Arts. A classmate of my mom's just happened to be pen pals with my dad and eventually played matchmaker, introducing the two. They fell in love and were married in New York City. For thirty two years my mom worked in civil service for the New York Office of Management & Budget, Intergovernmental Relations, State Legislation, and the Mayor's Office. Her music accomplishments include playing at Belen Manuel's Annual Snug Harbor Recital, playing hymns at the Our Lady Star of the Sea Healing Service under the leadership of Monsignor Jeffery Conway and jamming on her keyboard at events held by the family dining establishment, Hometown Restaurant. Generous, adventurous, intelligent and tenacious, my mom was and still is an exemplary role model. She helped me become who I am today. Because of her boldness, as a teen I unashamedly let my peers know that I preferred classic jazz over boy bands, three inch pumps over Doc Martins, and the '55 Brooklyn Dodgers over the '98 Yankees. Because of her discipline, I pushed myself hard to stay in honors from junior high school to college where I graduated on the dean's list. Because of her sophistication, my childhood was a culturally rich experience. I am so blessed to have my wonderful, amazing mother on this episode of my podcast.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts Episode 22: Mother's Day Special just published! This week an unprecedented, thrilling new episode of State of the Arts. I am joined on my podcast by my mother, Caroline Osborne who is a classically trained pianist, ballroom dance hobbyist, world traveler and classic cinema enthusiast. Born and raised in Hong Kong while it was still a British commonwealth, she grew up speaking both Cantonese and English. She was educated in private Vatican-run schools, always achieving high honors. Discovering a passion for classical piano at twelve years old, she was trained by private instructors hired by my grandparents. She ultimately passed all her exams at the British Academy of Music. She graduated from Saint Francis College with an honors degree in Liberal Arts. A classmate of my mom's just happened to be pen pals with my dad and eventually played matchmaker, introducing the two. They fell in love and were married in New York City. For thirty two years my mom worked in civil service for the New York Office of Management & Budget, Intergovernmental Relations, State Legislation, and the Mayor's Office. Her music accomplishments include playing at Belen Manuel's Annual Snug Harbor Recital, playing hymns at the Our Lady Star of the Sea Healing Service under the leadership of Monsignor Jeffery Conway and jamming on her keyboard at events held by the family dining establishment, Hometown Restaurant. Generous, adventurous, intelligent and tenacious, my mom was and still is an exemplary role model. She helped me become who I am today. Because of her boldness, as a teen I unashamedly let my peers know that I preferred classic jazz over boy bands, three inch pumps over Doc Martins, and the '55 Brooklyn Dodgers over the '98 Yankees. Because of her discipline, I pushed myself hard to stay in honors from junior high school to college where I graduated on the dean's list. Because of her sophistication, my childhood was a culturally rich experience. I am so blessed to have my wonderful, amazing mother on this episode of my podcast.
State of the Arts Episode 21: Saxophonist, Clarinetist, and Music Teacher Anthony Pellegrini joins me this week on my podcast. This Western Connecticut State University graduate is a music instructor at the Creative Music Center. Luis Fernando Jimenz, Andrew Beals, and Tony Lustig are among the greats whom he has studied with. He has released two original jazz albums, Four and One being one of them. In his most recent album, The Spring We Never Had, he is joined by The MVH Organ Trio. Being a member of the Brian Setzer-influenced tribute band The Rock This Town Orchestra, Anthony has played in many lively venues and events in the New York and Connecticut areas. Since the pandemic started, he has been involved in a variety of outdoor and now virtual performances. Tune in for an exciting interview with this inspirational, dedicated musician!
My podcast guest this week is award-winning musician, songwriter, band leader, entrepreneur and life coach Valerie Romanoff. Her music covers a vast spectrum called "Still, Chill and Thrill." "Still" is music for meditation. "Chill" is music for activation. "Thrill" is music for celebration. A diverse range of music spanning from new age to jazz to rock to the blues to world to funk. The Best World Album at the 15th Annual Zone Music Awards was one of the many awards Valerie has won. Although she is a multi-instrumentalist, she is predominantly a guitarist. Her original works are geared toward the meditation, yoga and spa industries. Not only is she the leader of the renowned Starlight Orchestra, she is also its CEO and co-founder. Her newest band is called Spirit Jam. Dividing her time between both Sedona, Arizona and New York, she calls both places her home. Before the pandemic, her schedule was flooded with festivals, live concerts and massive events. She can be found currently on Twitch.tv where she plays her music on a live stream. With virtual collaborations with other musicians and an album on the horizon, she has several projects she is now dedicated to. Healing Music Volumes 1 & 2 and The Best of Healing Music are among her various albums which can be purchased online. The late great and legendary yoga master Tao Porchon-Lynch collaborated with Valerie to create albums Reflections and Om Shanti Shalom. Tao softly speaks words of wisdom and tranquility over Valerie's soothing melodies. This was an amazing podcast episode with a truly amazing woman!
State of the Arts Episode 19. I'm joined on my podcast this week by playwright, singer, actress, ballroom dance student, travel enthusiast and patron of the arts, Mary Perifimos. She is a member of The Senior Theatre Acting Repertory (STAR), a theatre organization for senior citizen performers, directors and writers. She was the writer of several comedic plays addressing issues relevant to the senior citizen community. She also participated in singing songs and parodies with STAR. With pandemic restrictions now, she continues to perform and work with the Repertory virtually. For many years Mary Perifimos has been a ballroom dance student at Mende's Dance Studio as well, participating in classes, lessons and events. Being a fashion hobbyist in the past, she had sketched many designs, spanning over several decades. With a passion for writing, she has composed many poems, short stories and a book. She is well read, well traveled, and so very interesting to talk to. It was an amazingly special treat to have Mary Perifimos on my podcast this week!
Jazz Appreciation Month Special. With much excitement, I welcome jazz saxophone great and the founder of the Bob Mover Music Academy, Bob Mover to my podcast. Along with Web Manager/Curriculum Coordinator Jessy Kaiser, Bob Mover gives an informative and fascinating interview about his new online jazz music school. This episode gives listeners a glimpse into the Bob Mover Academy of Music also known as BMA. The faculty is composed of some of the top jazz musicians of our day including Victor Lewis, Rick Margitza and Sheila Jordan. Bob Mover and Jessy Kaiser discuss the wellspring of high quality education that BMA offers, the relevance of an online music school in the times we live in, the interesting story behind how BMA was formed and a new line of saxophones that are named after Bob Mover. With a brief audio cameo from my pianist husband Joe Grado, who is also the Marketing and Technology Manager of BMA, I explore the inner workings of this stellar music academy. Join me on this virtual adventure into this prestigious online music school!
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State of the Arts Episode 17! Women's History Month Special: A Loving Memorial Episode for Yoga Master, Political Activist, Ballroom Dancer, High Fashion Model, Author, Wine Connoisseur and Hollywood Actress Tao Porchon-Lynch (1918-2020). My guests this week are Tao Porchon-Lynch's protégés and spiritual family members, Renee Diamond and Joanna Rajendran. Together we remember a timeless icon who transcended all commonly acknowledged limits of life and who has left a most extraordinary legacy. Tao Porchon-Lynch, whose mother was Indian and father was French, began training in yoga as a child in Puducherry, India against her family's wishes. She was a part of the French Resistance during World War II, helping Jews escape from the Nazis. Trained by Sir Noël Peirce Coward, she was a cabaret dancer and actress who performed for the Allied troops in dangerous combat zones. She also trained over 2,000 USO entertainers to perform for the military. Eventually she signed a contract with MGM studios. "The Last Time I Saw Paris" and "Showboat" were two of the various movies she appeared in. She worked as a high-fashion model in France, where her family owned wineries. Studying under Yogis, B. K. S. Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois in India whenever she could, she brought her knowledge back to Hollywood. Many movie stars were trained in Yoga by Tao. She joined family friend, Mahandus Gandhi, in marches for justice. In 1963 she attended Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s March for Jobs and Freedom in Washington D.C. She spoke at a peace panel alongside the Dhali Lama and several Nobel Laureates. In 1962, she married New Yorker Bill Lynch who was in the insurance industry and moved to Westchester, New York. Together they established The American Wine Society and wine appreciation magazine, The Beverage Communicator. She became a full-time Yogi at this point in her life. Passionate about saving wildlife, especially elephants, she was active in wildlife conservation as well. At 87, she began training in international-style ballroom dancing, eventually winning over 700 Pro-Am first place titles. Her other accomplishments included ascending to the second round on America's Got Talent with her ballroom dance partner who was 70-years her junior, holding the record in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world's oldest yoga instructor and writing her autobiography "Dancing Light." I was blessed to have known Tao for a brief period of time when I attended a few parties and was in a showcase with her at The Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Hartsdale. I took some of her yoga classes during this time, which was a life-changing experience. There was a Latin competitive ballroom dress she owned that she thought would look perfect on me and we just happen to be the same dress size. So, she brought her dress into the studio the next time she saw me and just gave it to me! I've worn it recently for my promotional photo shoot. Tao Porchon-Lynch has made an impact on the lives of thousands of people, myself included. She led a life that was larger than life. With great honor, I dedicate this podcast episode to the beautiful legend who is Tao Porchon-Lynch.
State of the Arts Episode 16! My guest this week is award-winning online show producer/actor/director/writer Joshua R. Pangborn who is a dear friend and former classmate of mine from my alma mater, Manhattanville College. With a Bachelors of Arts from Manhattanville, a Doctorate in Literature from St. John's University and a great deal of experience in theatre, Josh founded Sidekick Productions. This online productions company (that has over 5,000 subscribers on Youtube) produces plus size-positive, LGBTQ-focused shows that addresses many important social issues with a daring comedic touch. Their bevy of productions include the wildly comical Skeleton Crew, the morbidly fascinating Demon Doctor and their newest clever installment, The Art of Blowing It. Skeleton Crew has eight nominations and three awards including the Côte d'Azur Web Fest Award. Demon Doctor has thirty-one nominations and fourteen awards including Best Comedy at the British Web Fest. A gifted, mutli-talented cast and crew makes Sidekick Productions run like a well-oiled machine. Despite all the success, Josh is still is as down-to-earth and fun as he was back in our college years. It was a privilege to have him on my podcast!
State of the Arts re-releases a previous episode featuring artist Kelly Sisco who is of Irish-American descent. Kelly is a theatrical performer, visual artist, comedian, singer, graphics designer, writer and the occasional co-host of the Crisis Help radio show on WVOX. Being the daughter of award-winning performing/visual artist and writer, Fran Sisco, Kelly assists Fran on many projects as well. With choir singing, acting classes and Zumba instruction also on her schedule, Kelly is constantly active in the Westchester Community. It was such a delight to have interviewed such a dynamic, multi-faceted talent on my podcast!
State of the Arts welcomes professional guitarist, singer and songwriter Sharon Ostrov. This eclectic indie musician is the host and producer of the Staten Island Community Cable variety TV show "The Music Express" and is a reoccurring guest on "The Cool Spot." She has released two Albums: "Strawberry Obsession" and "Emotional Rollercoaster." Since 2007, she has performed at many venues, events and festivals including The Westleigh Folk Festival. She works mainly as a solo artist, but she does collaborate with other musicians as well. Sharon was also the founder of the North Shore Four. She gigged with greats Morty Jacobi and Stan Jay. With much enthusiasm, this creative wife, mom and legal assistant also gives back to the Staten Island community by regularly performing at nursing homes. Listen to a fascinating discussion about Sharon Ostrov's exciting career path, hear a demo of a surprise cover song and enjoy the hope she gives to all artists who dare to dream.
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State of the Arts Episode 13 The great Argentine Tango teacher, producer, perfomer and choreographer Sergio Segura is my very special guest. Born in Argentina, he moved to New York City and discovered his talent for the Argentine Tango in New York. After extensive studies and interviews in his native city of Buenos Aires, he has developed a personal understanding of the roots of Tango and its historical evolution. He is the founder and director of the very well-known Strictly Tango NYC, a school for Argentine Tango. Through Sergio Segura Tango Productions, he organized many popular events including Amor y Tango in at the Highline Ballroom and the first NYC Queer Tango Festival which was featured in the New York Times and Revista VIVA. He has toured the world teaching and performing. He has also produced five Tango instructional DVDs. After much research, he has developed a signature Argentine Tango instructional system called The Tango Connection which is a cutting-edge approach to teaching the Argentine Tango. For the past decade, Sergio has worked at making Tango accessible to all through partnerships with NYC Parks and Events. He has also recently taken up photography, displaying his beautifully unique work on social media. It was a privilege to have this extraordinary Argentine Tango master and aficionado in many other art forms on State of the Arts!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Tune in this week for a fun episode dedicated to Twinsandi, a YouTube Channel created by a wonderful Palestinian couple. I am thrilled to announce that I am joined by one of my best friends from my Manhattanville College days, Bushra M and her husband Mawafaq who is an architect and co-creator of Twinsandi. They started this channel last year around the same time the pandemic began. Twinsandi focuses on their day to day life in the West Bank with five young children. Watch them play clever games, explore local attractions and embark on educational experiences. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5oNKaZL8Xkk9dnDNq_p77g
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State of the Arts Episode 11. Eleni Antonatos had informal training as a teenager in traditional Greek folk dancing, jazz dancing, and belly dancing which is very popular in the Mediterranean region. Eleni is now a dance instructor at and manager of Mende Dance Studio. Eleni is originally from Greece. She has been dancing, performing, teaching and competing in Social-Style Classic Ballroom Dancing for twenty years. This business school graduate, who once managed a restaurant, became a full time teacher at Mende Dance Studio in 2001 after many months of intensive training. She has also won first place in The Grand National Ballroom Dance Competition in Florida thirteen consecutive times. Tune in and listen to a heart-warming discussion about her journey, her thoughts on the beauty of partner dancing and her positive predictions for the future of this amazing art form.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts Episode 10, The Valentine's Day Special! Being a ballroom dancer, dance instructor (both independently and for Mende Dance Studio) and a podcaster on Spotify isn't easy. I am grateful to have a mate who is also an artist. I am blessed to have my perfect match standing by my side to weather the many storms that come with being in the arts. This week I'm joined by my loving husband who is my Valentine and soul-mate. My darling Joe is a music teacher, a pianist and an entrepreneur. He is also the marketing and technology manager for The Bob Mover Music Academy. Together we discuss the importance of artistic couples leaning on each other when the going gets rough in their chosen fields, pressing through a pandemic together, the beauty of two art forms complimenting each other and other intriguing topics.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts Episode 9 Black Heritage Month Special! My podcast guest this week is photographer Wesley DeJesus Bruno. Originally from Puerto Rico, he is a senior photography student at SUNY Purchase and he also resides in the Bronx. As an ambitious Gordon Parks Scholarship recipient, Wesley focuses on photographing models of African descent, documenting the growth of his younger brother and capturing the Bronx culture on camera. His goals include photographing for Vogue one day, publishing books, having his work featured in galleries and revolutionizing the world of professional photography by making it more diverse. Tune in for a riveting talk on subjects ranging from authentic, cutting edge photography to being a photographer in these current times.
My fellow ballroom dance instructor and podcaster Christopher J. Paige is an independent dance instructor who teaches classes as well as private lessons and organizes events in the Staten Island/New Jersey area. He spent sixteen years as a an instructor/choreographer for the Arthur Murray Dance Studio franchise. He was a coach for the Rutgers University Salsa Team for four years. He has appeared on MTV and Good Morning America. He is currently working with senior citizens and youths. He is also a Zumba instructor, a writer, a poet, a singer, a song writer, a photographer and a visual artist. He hosts his own podcast cleverly named "Just Some Guy Talking". Embark on this fascinating conversation about his innovative ways of safely teaching students under these tough circumstances, his predictions for the future in the world of dance, the positives that can be drawn from these bleak times and more!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts Episode 7 published today! My podcast welcomes the talented Manching Tom who is not only a certified yoga, stretch class and ballet instructor, she was also my Uncle Lawrence Lam's former ballet partner. Tune in to an uplifting discussion about health, wellness, artistry, navigating around a pandemic as an artist/fitness instructor and charity work.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
A very exciting Episode 6. Recorded on location at Mende Dance Studio with studio owner Mende Kirk who's my employer, mentor and possibly future business partner. He's also a Ballroom Dance Competition Judge Certified by the National Dance Council of America and a member of the NY Society of Dance Studios. An in-depth look at the health benefits of ballroom dancing, its fine artistry, the connection of dance to all aspects of life and encouragement for those who feel limited right now.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Fran Sisco joins me as my guest this week. Fran is an award winning Indie film maker, a performing artist, a visual artist, a comedian, a radio talk show host, a motivational speaker, a community activist and a certified public accountant. Fran addresses current issues, gives advice for struggling artists and speaks about the many forms of art she undertakes.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
"State of the Arts" New Year Special. I'm joined today by Teacher's Assistant Farhana Rahman who's a long-time patron of the local arts, and a life-long Westchester resident. Farhana shares her thoughts on the struggles local art venues face during this current climate, the creative solutions some places have come up with and hopes for the future.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts Holiday Special! State of the Arts welcomes special guests, my cousin Faerie (Christine Lam) who is an Indie singer/song writer and her boyfriend Brian Scagnelli, a modern visual artist. Talks of goals, challenges and perseverance during these unprecedented times with this inspirational couple!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts welcomes guest Kelly Sisco who is a theatrical performer, Zumba Instructor, visual artist, comedian, singer, graphics designer and writer.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
State of the Arts is a podcast where people in the performing and visual arts can connect, debate, chat and perform during these difficult times. Don't let COVID crush your dreams.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app