Brave and Strong and True: Recent Episodes
Bob Falkenstein
My guest is Jack McDonnell ... again. Jack was my guest for the first time in Episode 79. He asked if he could return, and he’s back today to discuss this summer’s main stage production of TARZAN. You will love Jack’s enthusiasm and Summer Stage spirit. So, come along and have some fun…
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Follow Jack on Instagram at jackmanwolf14
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
In this special episode, I talk with Chris Luner, who presents a preview of the 51st season of Summer Stage. We discuss each show on the schedule, the exciting changes for the Summer, and Chris presents some new ones. I hope you enjoy our conversation. So, come along and have some fun…
Visit Summer Stage’s website https://www.udsummerstage.org/
Find out more about the Upper Darby Arts & Education Foundation https://www.udfoundation.org/
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
“June is bustin’ out all over.” Pretty soon, school will be out, and Upper Darby Summer Stage will launch Season 51 with a temporary home base and new programs such as Second Act Cabaret and Senior Stage. This podcast begins its fifth season, and my 101st episode features Dan Luner. Dan joined Summer Stage in 2005 as an apprentice and moved up the ranks of Children’s Theatre and Main Stage. He also became a staff member. He graduated from Upper Darby High School and Cabrini College. Dan will begin a master's degree program at Purdue University in the fall. I hope you enjoy our conversation. So, come along and have some fun…
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
I am so proud and excited to welcome you to Episode 100 of the Summer Stage Alumni podcast. It boggles my mind realizing that I recorded interviews with so many Summer Stagers, and how many folks listen to this show regularly. I don’t want to sound like I am bragging, but I am proud to have created this project. In July of 2022, I interviewed Joe Hummel, who was my tenth guest. He mentioned that if the podcast ever made it to 100 episodes, he would interview me. Well, that’s what you're going to hear, now. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Link to Joe’s Pop Culture Madness website
https://popculturemadness.com
Link to Bob’s YouTube page for recipes and miscellaneous fun
https://www.youtube.com/c/bobfalkenstein
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
It’s been a few months since I dropped a new episode, the longest gap since we launched four years ago, so when Theresa Brown and Leslie Monaco asked if they could put together an alumni group for an episode, I agreed. Multi-guest interviews work best when each guest is at their own remote location; however, for this particular interview, all six guests would be together in the same location, gathered around the built-in microphone of a single laptop computer. Being so hungry to produce an episode after a three-month drought, I agreed. Three group members already appeared as guests on the podcast, so I didn’t want to ask the same questions that I traditionally do. Plus, I wasn’t sure how the single microphone arrangement would work, so there wasn’t any structure at all. What the episode lacks in technical quality is made up for by the spirit of the guests: they truly enjoy each other’s company and share a tremendous love for Summer Stage. I'm glad I agreed to record the conversation and present it to you as the 99th episode of the alumni podcast. My guests are Tracy Armbruster Flynn, Theresa Canfield Brown, Christopher Lenz, Leslie Monaco, Jim McIllhenney, and Stuart Sturrock. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
By the time this podcast drops, Dan Martin will be a newly married man, so congratulations, Dan! Dan Martin went to Saint Berndette’s grade school and Drexel Hill Middle School, where his friends introduced him to Summer Stage. He attended Monsignor Bonner, where he was the Friar mascot. He received his degree from Saint Joseph’s University and his Master's from Temple. In 2002, Dan performed in his first children’s theatre production, Bound for Broadway. He fondly recalls the 2005 production of Narnia, playing Mr. Beaver. Currently residing in Chicago, Dan and I talk about Chicago and Philadelphia cuisine. I also asked Dan some “Guest Questions” provided by his good friend Brenna Dinon. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Brenna Dinon joined Summer Stage as an Apprentice while she was a student at Saint Bernadette's in Drexel Hill. She hung around for several summers performing in Children’s Theatre shows and with The Shooting Stars, eventually joining the staff. She graduated from Saint Joseph’s University and works out of her East Falls home as an author, copywriter, and creator. Please follow the link to Amazon to see the RP Minis that she created. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Link to Brenna’s Mini-kits available on Amazon
Link to the video Brenna and Dwight made during the pandemic
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Highland Park native, Meghan Malloy, had a brief stint as an apprentice in 1991. She triumphantly returned in 1996, appearing in Alice in Wonderland. She later appeared in Main Stage productions, Dance Troupe, and One Acts. After graduating from Point Park College, she joined the staff and taught acting in the outreach program. Meghan led Camp Friendship and directed children’s theatre shows. She currently works as an actor, an accent and dialect coach, a teaching artist, and a playwright. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
LINKS
Website - MeghanMalloyCreates.com
YouTube - @meghan.malloy.creates
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Mark Cronin grew up in Drexel Hill and graduated from Upper Darby High School in 1982. He was Rooster Hannigan in 1984’s Annie and finally made it to East Street. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Chemical Engineering. He cultivated his comedy roots in the Mask and Wig Club. He began his professional career writing jokes for Howard Stern. Mark is known as the King of Reality TV, producing hits for over three decades. His latest creation, Below Deck, has been running for 13 seasons. Mark lives in Martha’s Vineyard, where he enjoys golfing and fishing. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
Corrections: In the intro, Bob said Annie was in 1982, he should have said 1984.
Wikipedia Page https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Cronin
Upper Darby High School Wall of Fame tribute https://upperdarbyhigh.upperdarbysd.org/our-school/alumni-wall-of-fame
U of P Mask & Wig Club https://www.maskandwig.com/about/
Below Deck on Bravo TV https://www.bravotv.com/below-deck
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Donata Cucinotta joined Summer Stage in 1994. She was a student Waldron Mercy Academy in Merion Station and during her summers enjoyed performing in the casts of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, where she played Scotty the Scottish Dwarf. She remembers the heat and humidity of the Beverly Hills summer of 1995,and 1996’s No One Will Marry a Princess With a Tree Growing Out of Her Head. In 1997, she was in the mainstage cast of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. She attended Ithaca College to prepare for a performance career. Donatta is a rising star in the world of opera and has an amazing resume of roles and appearances. Her performance of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” at last summer’s 50th Anniversary Gala performance blew the roof off the Performing Arts Center. She makes Seymour, Indiana, her home base, where she is a voice teacher. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
UPDATE: Correction to the spoken introduction - Joseph was in 1997.
You can keep in touch with Donata at:
http://www.donatacucinotta.com/
@SopranoDonata
https://www.instagram.com/sopranodonata
https://www.youtube.com/@SopranoDonata
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desk
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Ellie Dormond is an original Summer Stager. She was encouraged to join the inaugural season in 1976 while she was a student of Cathy Pregmon at Upper Darby High School. While claiming to have lived at the Performing Arts Center, she never once appeared on stage. She is a diehard techie who enjoys working off-stage and backstage. As a mother of two boys and a nurse specializing in elder care, Ellie has depended on the principle of being brave, strong, and true throughout her life. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Jess Coulter sat in her car parked outside the Performing Arts Center as we recorded this conversation. She grew up in Havertown but now lives in Perkiomen Valley, over an hour away. She is a Summer Stage alumnus and the mother of three children, all of whom are current members. Jess joined the apprentice program in 1990. Her first children’s theatre show was Freedom, directed by Harry Dietzler. She proudly claims that she has seen at least one Summer Stage show every season since 1985. She works as a high school English teacher, which is my former career, so we do “geek out” about literature during this. After participating in the 50th Anniversary Gala Performance, Jess stepped up as one of the leaders of the soon-to-be-formed alumni organization. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
I visited Summer Stage on Tuesday, July 22. Artistic Director Chris Luner selected small groups of “friends” for me to interview. In this episode, you will hear from four students from the theatre tech program. They are Quinn Williams, Ava Bowser, Remy Lazur, and Han Ahmed. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
I visited Summer Stage on Tuesday, July 22. Artistic Director Chris Luner selected small groups of “friends” for me to interview. In this episode, you will hear from four cast members from The SpongeBob Musical Youth Edition, which opens on August 5. They are Nate Quillen, Kalia Hayman-Brown, Amina Peters, and Malayna McCarthy. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
I visited Summer Stage on Tuesday, July 22. Artistic Director Chris Luner selected small groups of “friends” for me to interview. In this episode, you will hear from four cast members from Annie, Jr.,which opens on July 29. They are Ava Mast, Ariel Weber, Leah Repino, and Myles Boanes. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Lansdowne native, Steve Eberle, attended Saint Philomena’s grade school, Monsignor Bonner High School, and DeSales University. He joined Summer Stage in 1990 and participated as an apprentice for two seasons. His first show was 1992’s Alice in Wonderland, directed by Tara Urban. One of Steve’s memorable roles was Gandalf in The Hobbit. He was in the Main Stage production of Me and My Girl in 1996. After living in Baltimore for a few decades, Steve returned home and bought the house he grew up in. He is currently the Vice President of Advancement for a national non-profit organization. Steve also sits on the board of directors for The Historic Lansdowne Theater Corporation. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
Steve’s links:
Stephen A. Eberle, CFRE professional page: https://stephen-a-eberle.com/
Historic Lansdowne Theater Corporation: https://www.lansdownetheater.org/
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Vicky Mahoney is a second-generation Summer Stager. That doesn’t mean she’s from the second decade; it means her father was a member of Summer Stage. She is also the first post-Gala guest I interviewed, and we both are riding high on the crest of that wave from last weekend. Vicky started Summer Stage in 1999 and participated in the Apprentices and Children’s Theatre programs. She is a graduate of Merion Mercer Academy and Catholic University of America. She has performed professionally in musicals in the metropolitan DC area. Vicky works at Braithwaite Communications in Philadelphia. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
Follow Vicky’s awesomeness online at @vickster179
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Marie Eife, a native of Drexel Hill, joined Summer Stage in 2003. After graduating from Archbishop Prendergast, she attended Syracuse University. Eife moved to New York City and has been a part of Wicked professionally since 2019, leading to her understudying and performing the role of Elphaba. This episode was recorded two days before the 50th Anniversary alumni show and gala on June 27. I just met Eife last week at rehearsal. She is a remarkable person. After listening to her, I’m sure you will be changed for good. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
Eife’s links: @eife22
and @eife_elevations22
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Drexel Hill native Lauren Hoffman joined Summer Stage in 2006 and participated in Children’s Theatre for four summers. A graduate of Upper Darby High School, she attended Delaware County Community College and Rosemont College. She is now Lauren Glover, a mother, wife, and an Autistic support teacher at Drexel Hill Middle School. We recorded our discussion the day after the first two rehearsals for the 50th Anniversary show. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
Drexel Hill Middle School Theater Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/dhms.theater/
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Part 2 of my interview with Julianna Schauerman and Ed Robins continues with a conversation with Ed. Ed Robins came to Summer Stage in 1981 and worked there until 2015. Ed is a jack-of-all-trades tech wizard, working in designing, lighting, electrical, carpentry, painting - you name it; Ed does it. He directs and stage manages as well. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
Conversations with Miranda a play
Produced by Zakarak Productions
Directed by Ed Robins
with Julianna Schauerman as Miranda
https://pcstheater.org/zakarak-productions-presents-conversations-with-miranda/
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, Bluetooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Julianna Schauerman spent every minute of her adult life working in theatre. She came to Summer Stage in 1977 and continued to work there until 1995. She is producing the 50th Anniversary show, just like she did for reunions 25, 30, and 40. Julianna also produces special events for Summer Stage, such as Harry’s Retirement Surprise Event. She runs her own production company and still finds time to perform. With us is Ed Robins who pitches in from time to time before I interview him for our next episode. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
Summer Stage 50th Gala Celebration Shows:
https://vivenu.com/seller/upper-darby-arts-education-foundation-395k
Conversations with Miranda a play
Produced by Zakarak Productions
Directed by Ed Robins
with Julianna Schauerman as Miranda
https://pcstheater.org/zakarak-productions-presents-conversations-with-miranda/
Zakarak Productions, Inc. - Production Company:
Zakarak.com
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously, so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but A
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Lizzy Lunardi and Anna Rudegeair first met each other while auditioning for Annie, Jr. in 2012. They were cast as Molly and Annie and began a lifelong friendship; they collectively became known as “Lizzanna.” These amazing young women speak so fondly of each other and what Summer Stage means to them. I enjoyed my time with them. I even learned about Dorkus Dietzler. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun . . .
Please follow Anna on Instagram and TikTok at @annaredhair_
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Gina Giachero is the musical director of the 50th Anniversary Gala. She joined Summer Stage in 2007 as an accompanist. She was the musical director for Ragtime, My Favorite Year, The SpongeBob Musical, and many other mainstage classics. Her vibrant personality shines through in her hilarious Summer Stage stories. So, come along and have some fun!
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Allie Steele comes from Radnor. She joined Summer Stage in 2000. She worked her way up the ranks from Rising Stars, Children Theatre, Mainstage, and staff, before settling into the role of Stage Manager. She is a graduate of Saint Joseph’s University and works as a teaching artist. Currently, Allie is the 50th Anniversary Administrator for our upcoming reunion and gala, which she will discuss some details about. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Visit https://www.udsummerstage.org/ for up-to-date information about the 50th Anniversary Gala.
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases.
Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Jack McDonnell is a Springfield native who began as a Rising Star in 2009. In 2010, he started his Children’s Theatre career. This summer, he will continue along with the Mainstage program. Jack embodies the spirit of Summer Stage as he shares his enthusiasm for the arts, his appreciation for his mentors, and his life on the Autism spectrum. He shares amazing stories and performs some awesome impressions along the way. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
**Tim Sweeney remembers riding bikes to Summer Stage with his brothers and sisters from the Aronomink section of Drexel Hill. At one time there were four Sweeney’s at Summer Stage: Kate, Joe, Mike, and Tim. Tim fondly remembers meeting folks who became his lifelong friends friends while creating magic on the stage. Tim just became a father at the age of 46. He works as an insurance agent and owns and operates Turkey Trivia, a company he created. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Tim works with a charity in Radnor that helps people with spinal cord injuries and organ transplants. Please visit helphopelive.org to find out more.**
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
David Cregan came to Summer Stage in 1982 after his freshman year at Bonner. He fondly remembers Nancy Santamaria influencing his love of dancing, claiming that West Side Story was a remarkable experience. He went on to major in Musical Theatre at Villanova University. David received advanced degrees from Catholic University and Trinity College. David lived in New York City and performed professionally until he felt called into the priesthood, joining the Augustinian order in 1993. Father David now wears two hats at Villanova as Chair of the Theatre Department and the Associate Dean of the College of Professional Studies. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Danny Bradley joined Summer Stage just before his eleventh birthday. He remembers taking Nancy Sanatmaria’s dance class and joining the cast of Nancy’s Children’s Theatre production of The Unicorn, the Gorgon, and the Manticore in 1978. He performed in many Children’s Theatre shows and took on many roles such as Michael Banks in Mary Poppins (1979), Woodstock in Charlie Brown and Friends (1980), and Charlie Bucket in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1981). Dan was also in the cast of Westside Story (1984). He has recently retired from a career in teaching and resides in Delaware. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. I can record five guests simultaneously so reach out to your friends for an online mini-reunion.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Sarah Mackus came to Summer Stage after her first year at Temple University. Since then she has performed in Mainstage shows while working on the staff. Sarah has spent the last eight summers on the marketing team and became the Media Manager in 2022, producing over 40 videos showcasing the program, its productions, and its students. Sarah is also on staff at Hedgerow Theatre and a teaching artist at Wolf Performing Arts Center. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Sarah’s website, detailing upcoming and past performances, theater education projects, and video/media portfolio: sarahmackus.com
Details and tickets for the upcoming Tales from Poe production: https://www.hedgerowtheatre.org/tales-from-poe
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Justin Heimbecker is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you can support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Calling all alumni. You are invited to join the newly forming Upper Darby Summer Stage Alumni Association. Please follow their journey on Facebook and let them know who you are and how you would like to participate by completing their survey. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhsawqmXCP_xvBgaAp-p_Qx7mFdEGSrXGr7tvcBByIbrRolg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawLnHi9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFad2dYVE9vUktCck15c0ZkAR74qth55MAixuxK4-9kkdlZblik6wc0iEVKMfzX80IlXprMdAUQRAyJUn5LxA_aem_mPsQyGx6X5TFyTGxXKVd9A
Jeff Boadwin joined Summer Stage when he was 13 years old. The opportunity to perform onstage was a dream for a blind person. The artistic staff adapted their methods so Jeff could act, sing, and dance in several Children’s Theatre productions. When Jeff was a pirate in Peter Pan, the costume designer created two eye patches for him to wear for a funny moment in dress rehearsal. After graduating from Overbrook School for the Blind, he attended Neumann University and Villanova University. He works as a child psychologist for Psych Choices of the Delaware Valley. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Jeff’s professional web page**
https://psychchoices.com/our-staff/mr-jeff-boudwin/
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Bridget Fitzgerald commuted to Summer Stage from Boothwyn. Her Children’s Theatre credits include the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz and the Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland. She appeared in several of the ensembles of the Main Stage program. Bridget moved on to performing at dinner theatres along the East Coast. Though she resides over 90 minutes from the Performing Arts Center, she returns every summer to support Summer Stage. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the Show.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Jim McIlhenney joined Summer Stage in 1978 and found a home as a techie. He loved working backstage creating scenery and working up in the booth during live shows. He credits his good friend Joe Bader for convincing him to try out for shows. This led Jim to performances in Children’s Theater and Main Stage. Retired from his teaching career, he enjoys a life of leisure in South Jersey. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the Show.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Amanda Snarski joined Summer Stage as an apprentice in 1995 and proudly performed in several "T-shirt shows" (among others) until 2001. Amanda participated in Mainstage, One Acts, Cabaret, Dance Troupe, and Shooting Stars and worked as a staff member in the box office from 2000-2003. She enthusiastically remembers her Summer Stage days, but somehow she forgets to mention that she played Wendy in a non-flying production of Peter Pan. She attended Wagner College in Staten Island. In 2014, Amanda re-joined the staff as an assistant director for Mainstage, coordinator for Director's Workshop, and eventually directed for Children's Theater in 2016. With nearly 20 years of experience as a teaching artist in the Philadelphia area, she now resides in Lancaster County where she continues to pursue her passion for theatre education at the Fulton Theatre.
I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Fulton Theatre, Lancaster, PA https://thefulton.org/ We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the Show.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Hello, everybody. I’m Bob Falkenstein. I’m sorry if you thought you would hear a new episode of Brave and Strong and True. The show has been going strong for two years. This marks the second episode of its third season. We have 69 episodes engaging alumni of all ages. People tell me Monday is their favorite day of the week because they can hear a new episode. To continue to bring you new content every week I need your help. Please consider being a guest or please recruit guests for me. The process is so simple. If you know anyone who was already a guest, please ask them what they thought of the experience. I’m sure you will hear about a pleasant experience. I will need you for about 60 minutes. We’ll connect online using a service called Boomcaster using a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome Browser. They just updated the program so you can connect from a tablet or smartphone. And here’s the best part: I can interview multiple guests from five separate locations. If you have concerns about interviewing alone, come along and have some fun with a group of your friends. Think of the possibilities! Plan a mini-reunion for the Annie orphans, share the episode with former castmates from an iconic children’s theatre cast, or join your siblings to share your family’s Summer Stage experience. The possibilities are endless. All are welcome. You can reach me at braveandstronandtrue@gmail.com.
**In the absence of a new guest, I decided to run our first encore presentation. I selected this particular episode since it holds the record for most downloads. This encore presentation originally dropped on August 15, 2022 and my guest is the fabulous Jackie Ostick.
My guest is Jaskie Ostick. Jackie joined Summer Stage in 1998. She started out small, but as her confidence grew she took on bigger roles. She became a member of The Shooting Stars and a staff member. After graduating from De Sales University, she moved to New York City where and performs professionally around the country. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .**
Jackie’s website
http://www.jackieostick.com/
Jackie’s newsletter https://confirmsubscription.com/h/t/A2DD2100E4C0B4C2
Foods of New York tours (where Jackie is a tour guide)
https://www.foodsofny.com/
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at brave
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the Show.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Vince Leonard has a different Summer Stage journey from the rest of us. His genius spans many realms in the world of professional music as an educator, orchestrator, librarian, and arranger. In 1981, he heard Summer Stage was preparing Sentimental Journey**, an evening of music from the big band era. Vince possessed many arrangements that helped the already incredible-sounding band raise the bar, performing with authenticity from earlier decades. The results led to incredible performances that remain legendary. Vince was part of the production team that recorded and produced Summer Stage compact discs. He has a long association with the Philly Pops Orchestra and continues to teach at the college level. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Visit the No Name Pops website** https://nonamepops.org
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**. Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the Show.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Jason Boyer is a second-generation Summer Stager. His journey begins with Children’s Theatre from 2007 to 2010. His first Main Stage performance was in 2011’s Titanic. In 2014, he became a staff member. This summer, Jason will be directing the Rising Stars at Summer Stage. He is a Teaching Artist for the Walnut Street Theatre and the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Listeners may contact Jason at jasonboyerta@gmail.com
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**.
Please click on the link to visit Neil’s BandCamp website to listen to songs from his album, including cut number 7, “Harry Dietzler.” Please support Neil’s work by buying downloads of your favorites.
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have the latest version of the Google Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop computer. I can now record interviews with guests who have iPads or iPhones. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the Show.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Kristen Gibson joined the Summer Stage Apprentice program in 1991. She has fond memories of 1994’s Kids on Broadway, working with the legendary Matt Cloran and Dewy Oriente. As a child, she struggled with serious health issues that she still deals with today. Her Summer Stage journey now continues through her son, Michael. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the Show.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
**Patrick Gorman became an official member of Summer Stage in 1980 but remembers hanging around earlier summers with his sister, Chris, and her husband, Dennis Bloh. Pat embraced the technical side of theatre and preferred to work backstage and in the control booth. After graduating from Monsignor Bonner High School and Temple University, Pat worked in various careers and eventually ended up out west, raising three children who have already embraced the magic of performing on stage. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now in its 49th season of magic. Please visit their website www.udsummerstage.org for information about performances and ticket sales. If you are able to make a donation, please consider it. Summer Stage is now a not-for-profit organization and relies on contributions from good folks like you. Tell them Bob sent you.
Support the Show.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Leslie Monaco is a current Upper Darby Summer Stage member looking forward to participating for four more years. She joined the program as a Rising Star and then an Apprentice. Leslie moved into the Children’s Theatre program when she turned 13. She is a graduate of West Chester University and works for the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia where she always runs into Summer Stagers. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Leslie’s links:
Miscast Cabaret at SALT performing Arts
salt.pa.ticketleap.com/miscastcabaret
Wolf Performing Art Center
www.wolfperformingartscenter.org
Walnut Street Theatre
www.walnutstreettheatre.org
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Tyler Trafficante joined Summer Stage in 2009 as a Rising Star. He hung around for five summers, performing in the Children’s Theatre program. As an adult, Tyler plays tenor saxophone with the Polish American String Band, of the Philadelphia Mummers Association. He also is a current member of an online theatre company that produces the works of William Shakespeare. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Tyler’s links:
Polish American String Band’s New Year's Day performance from January 1, 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyKK8KxOs5U&authuser=0
Online performance of The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIBAjy8_sec&authuser=0
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com**.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.**
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Havertown native Emily Moylan began her Summer Stage journey as an apprentice. She moved her way up through Children’s Theatre and Mainstage productions. As her skills accrued, she held various staff positions. After receiving a degree from Temple University, Emily worked for Philadelphia Young Playwrights. She is a professional educator, administrator, theatre artist, and writer. Currently, Emily is on the administrative staff of Darlington Arts Center as their Assistant Director. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Darlington Arts Center https://www.darlingtonarts.org/
Philadelphia Young Playwrights https://www.phillyyoungplaywrights.org/ We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Marcie (Turstlick) Bramucci remembers the initial impact Summer Stage had on her life as she experienced a 1987 performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. She joined the program when she was age-eligible, participating in the Apprentice Program, Children’s Theater, and Mainstage. Her academic career took her to Point Park College before earning Master's Degrees from Villanova University and Columbia University. Marcie worked in media on both coasts before settling back in Delaware County. She is currently the Executive Artistic Director of Hedgerow Theatre Company in Rose Valley where she produces, directs, and performs. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Hedgerow Theatre Company https://www.hedgerowtheatre.org/
Marcie’s professional website https://www.marciebramucci.com/ We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Gerri Smith Weagraff is “Old Guard” Summer Stage. Her wonderful portrayals of classic musical theatre characters remain treasured in our memories. From 1977 to 1980, Summer Stage was the only place where Gerri performed. It was where she spent her summers while home from college, and she says it truly served as the foundation for her life onstage and off, developing such qualities as teamwork, commitment, respect, confidence, and much more. Musical theatre has always been a family affair for Gerri, for she has performed on stage with her parents, her husband, and their children. Early in her professional career, she was a radio announcer for local stations in South Jersey and Wilmington, Delaware. Since the mid-80s, Gerri has performed with many Summer Stagers at other theaters in the tri-state area, and she cherishes the bond we all share. While in her fifties and sixties, Gerri found amazing opportunities with the national touring companies of A Fiddler on the Roof and Anastasia. I interviewed her from her hotel room in Jackson, Mississippi, where she is traveling with the national touring company of My Fair Lady. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Gerri’s website www.gerriwegraff.com
Follow Gerri on Instagram @gerriweagraff
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
**I interviewed Steve Smith during our recent Christmas break since we are both teachers. He grew up in Highland Park and went to Bonner. Steve joined Summer Stage in 1981 when he turned eleven and thrived in the Children’s Theatre program. He fondly remembers the opportunity to be a pirate. He went to Villanova University for his first degree and earned his Masters at American University. He now teaches Social Studies at Downingtown East High School. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True****, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Collingdale native Sandi Kinnear’s Summer Stage history began in 1978 when she played clarinet in the pit orchestra for Of Thee I Sing when she was 13. Her reedsmanship also included playing the alto and baritone saxophones for many early eighties musicals and Sentimental Journeys. Sandi toured the country as Sandi Joy, a popular Christian comedienne. She now resides in Chester County and is active in productions with SALT Performing Arts. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Sandi’s links:
Sandi’s national Walmart commercial https://www.ispot.tv/ad/7tBo/walmart-super-summer-savings-sandi
SALT Performing Arts https://www.saltpa.com/
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
**Colleen Corbett got the theatre bug while attending Arch Bishop Prendergast High School. She joined Summer Stage in 1982 and made quite a debut playing the Wicked Witch in Snow White. Acting became her strength as she practiced her craft in the children’s theatre program. She worked on the staff and as a director. She moved to New York City and found work in daytime soap operas and films. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True****, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Deirdre McGettigan joined Summer Stage in 1984 with the cast Annie and Barnum, the following summer, forging her lifelong friendship with her best friend, Ann Pinto. She sacrificed a few summers to work in Wildwood Crest. Deirdre fondly remembers the magic of the 25th, 30th, and 40th Anniversary Galas. She currently performs with several local community theatres. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Jeff Glasse performed in many Children’s Theatre productions in the eighties, and by the nineties, he was a leading man in Main Stage productions playing Oliver Warbucks in Annie! and the King of Siam in The King and I**. Jeff took his Ivy League education west to Silicon Valley and worked as a programming engineer on many successful projects; he claims that a lot of his instincts are anchored in what he learned in his youth at Summer Stage. Jeff worked as a CEO for startup companies and spent a decade on the stand-up comedy circuit in New York City. In his spare time, Jeff likes to sail his sailboat, create woodworking projects, and cook. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
I struggled to write an introduction for my session with Krissy Fraelich and Nick Hunchak. They genuinely do not need to be introduced. They rank high among the Summer Stage power couples. I couldn’t wait to interview them together because being around them is always a wonderful experience. As you will hear, the recording did not go smoothly. There are glitches, times when either I or they dropped out. I decided to release what I can now, calling it Part 1. I can’t wait to continue our session and bring you Part 2 soon. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Ilana Barzel’s Summer Stage experience began in 2007 and lasted three summers. She appreciates her experience and praises the program for its inclusiveness. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Alana’s links:
What is Shabbat? (Jewish Sabbath) https://www.myjewishlearning.com/srticle/shabbat-101/
For more information about epilepsy, please visit the Epilepsy Foundation's website at https://www.efepe.org We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment. If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Upper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Ed Sweeney's Summer Stage experience began with the second half of the first generation and ran through the middle of the second generation. He had his share of roles in children’s theatre and main stage. Currently, he performs with the Philadelphia Counterparts, a popular acapella group. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
Ed’s links’s:
http://www.thecounterparts.com/
https://springsing.org/
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the showUpper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Mike Hazlett and Chris Lenz credit Of Thee I Sing as their first Summer Stage show in 1978. Mike spent three summers, and Chris stayed around for a while. Both continue to perform to this day. Because of a hardware issue, we had to switch over to a Zoom call which abruptly ended. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Keep up with Chris’s performances at http://lenzartist.weebly.com/
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the showUpper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
Ed Robbins has supported my efforts since the very beginning. He suggested that Andrew and his mother, Carolyn, appear together for an interview. I initially interviewed them simultaneously, but, unfortunately, Andrew’s recording got corrupted. I was able to piece together my discussion with Carolyn, and then I interviewed Andrew and incorporated that into this episode. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Bristol Riverside Theatre web site https://www.brtstage.org**
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the showUpper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
**It’s with tremendous pride that I say the next sentence. This is the 50th Episode of the podcast and my guest is Harry Dietzler. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True****, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the showUpper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
My guest is Karen Toto-Hockenberry. Karen was a Prendie girl who went to Temple University. She joined the staff in 1977 as a dancing instructor. I was a student of hers in the lobby. She moved to The Big Apple and found work in the chorus, singing and dancing in many Broadway shows and national tours. Karen returned to Summer Stage in 1989 to direct Guys and Dolls. The following summer, she choreographed Showstoppers2. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the showUpper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
My guest is Pat Walsh. Pat joined Summer Stage when he was old enough to perform in the Main Stage productions where he had had a nice run of lead roles. He was Shrek in Shrek the Musical in 2014. In 2017, he played Quasimoto in The Hunchback of Notre Dame. And last summer he was Patrick in The Spongebob Musical. Pat began directing musicals at Summer Stage and is currently rehearsing The Three Little Pigs forChildren’s Theatre. Pat is an educator and loves to bring the joy of theatre to his students. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the showUpper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
On July 20, I visited Summer Stage and saw Beauty and the Beast, Junior. Later, I witnessed a General Meeting which amazed me. Then I met with three groups of four kids and interviewed them. So today I have 12 guests. They are Raylin Meyers, Marcus Solomon, Cole McIntosh, Addi Pollard, Lonnie Womak, Fareed Leslie, Kiera McCarron, Rose Warren, Aidan Dougherty, Keira Hornung, Kara Schwebb, and Alex Segreti. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the showUpper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
My guest is Brian Walsh. Brian came to Summer Stage when he was 15. He stayed for 25 years. He performed and then directed shows for Children’s Theater and Main Stage. Brian is a fifth-grade teacher studying to become an administrator. He claims that the organizational and leadership skills he learned at Summer Stage have prepared him to become a principal one day. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the showUpper Darby Summer Stage is now part of the non-profit organization known as the Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation. Harry Dietzler is the Executive Director of the UDAEF.
If you are able to support Summer Stage financially, please visit udsummerstage.org to find out more.
My guest is Tim Mackay. Tim came to Summer Stage as a young boy in 1993 and performed for a few summers. He returned in 1999 as a staff member. Tim worked as an electrician and a lighting designer. His professional career took off when he began working for Flying By Foy, traveling up and down the east coast flying actors above the stage. This brought him back to Summer Stage to fly Peter Pan, Aladdin’s carpet, and Mary Poppins. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Tim is a member of IATSE.org**
EntertainmentCommunity.org helps theatrical artists during hard times. Please help if you can.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Danielle Tumminelli. She became a Summer Stage Apprentice in 1991. Danielle’s best-loved Children’s Theatre roles were Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz and Ariel from The Little Mermaid. And we will find out why Ariel and the Prince never kissed in this production. She attended Point Park College which some folks know as “Summer Stage West.” As a staff member, Danielle was the stage manager for Ragtime. She created her own entertainment business where she continues to fill the world with love. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
Danielle’s business website www.thepurevoice.com We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Season 2 of Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
My guest is Alexander Kacala. Alex attended Strath Haven High School and was Summer Stager of the Year in 2004. Alex lives in New York City and has had many exciting careers. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
Alex’s website www.faymeproblems.com
Alex’s social media www.instagram.com/faymeproblem
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however, BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Season 2 of Brave and Strong and True, a podcast that engages Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
My guest is David Pershica. You would remember him as David Smith. David performed in Annie and Barnum**, which embarrassed me because I did not recognize him. Claiming that Summer Stage and his mentors changed his life, David has had a fantastic career in show business working with the giants of the industry. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Season 2 of Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
My guest is Jackie Langley. Jackie joined Summer Stage in 1995 and performed until 2013. She continued on as a staff member until 2016. She is a voice teacher and real estate agent. Our discussion covers a wide range of topics. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
Jackie’s voice studio https://www.jmlangley.com
Jackie’s real estate page https://www.kw.com/agent/UPA-6975203525326979072-5?fbclid=IwAR2ghSNuwzXYKm29WdN2NkXBWwFAVMIAvHP-ICLAQ-_Q81t32z4Kw3JF-IoBrave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
Welcome to the 40th episode. My special guest is Kathy Moscotti, but most of you know her as Mamma Mo. Mamma began as a volunteer parent before Harry hired her. She remains an essential component of the day-to-day operations of Summer Stage. Her unique skill set has and continues to touch many hearts. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Ed Fiscella. Ed is a Summer Stage legend. He directed the first Summer Stage musical, Anything Goes, in 1976. He directed the majority of musicals during the Golden Age of Summer Stage. Thirty-five years ago, he brought the Summer Stage magic to South Jersey as the founder of Mainstage, where he will be handing over the reins to his successors this season. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Please contact Ed at Please contact Ed at** ed@mainstage.org
Find out more about Mainstage and its programs at www.mainstage.org
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Maria McCormick McCarthy. Maria is a 20-year veteran of Lower Merion School District, Maria has been the music teacher at Merion Elementary School for the past 17 years. She is also an adjunct professor of music education at Eastern University. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Angela Pomo Wertner. Angela was a Summer Stage member from 1995 until 2003, during the Golden Age of Dietzler children. She did everything: apprentice, children’s theatre, MainStage, dance troupe, one acts, cabaret, and courtyard shows. Many would call her a “lifer” as she also worked there as a choreographer and helped Harry with writing out the original curriculum, including performing arts programming for Theatre Bugs, Magic Makers, and Rising Stars. Angela taught at Summer Stage for nine summers. A graduate of DeSales University, Angela devotes her life to arts education. She now resides in Swarthmore. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Angela's links:**3. Curriculum Vitae-AWertner.pdf
4. Director/Choreographer Resume.pdf
Link to Angela’s teaching reel
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16LyQjqt5YBDTSN0V26WuonfC59NgWAVI/view?usp=drivesdkBrave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Erin McGowan Panek. Erin was a member of Summer Stage from 1988 until 1994. She claims they were the best seven years of her life. She was an Apprentice in 1988, performed in Children’s Theatre from 1989 to 1992, and Mainstage in the Summers of 1990, 1993, and 1994. For over 20 years she has been an elementary school teacher in the Ridley School District where she wrote, directed, and produced original multi-media productions. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Links to Grace Park Drama Group productions:
ROXIE (2017-2018) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImpVa3OBlG8&t=248s
IMAGINE (2018-2019) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkx3mzAPV-U&t=35s
BUSTED: A GP MYSTERY (2019-2021) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXR_g6pAn2E&list=PLR4EtdF0dnyqN6kJHelqV2dYS9UW__aPT&index=3&t=236s
INSIDE A BUBBLE (created during quarantine 2020) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmIfPUkpjtc
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
**My guest is Cate Paxson Kaufmann. Cate is a unique guest as she was not a Summer Stage performer. She is a Summer Stage mom. She began in the eighties seeing performances with her children, and by the nineties, she was dropping off her children as members. Around the time that the Outreach program began, she volunteered with the parents' group. She brought Candygrams, Flowergrams, and PhotoButtons to the program and was awarded Parent of the Year. One night Harry handed a camera to her and Cate found her niche. She was hired on to staff as the official summer stage photographer. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True*, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.*
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Alison King. Alison is a lifelong resident of Drexel Hill. She was a Summer Stage member from 1999 to 2007. She began as an apprentice and worked her way up to children’s theatre and then mainstage. She now owns her own business and sits on the Board of Directors of a local theatre company. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
Alison’s links:
Narberth Community Theatre (NCT) - https://mynct.org/
LinkedIn for job search advice/resume writing - www.linkedin.com/in/alisonking100www.kingcareerservices.com **Alison King (FB) - Profile photo: pink & blue lights/me in a bungee at Pop Fit Studio
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Stephen Fala, a member from 2003 to 2008. He has a ten-year career in professional theatre for young audiences. He recently concluded a run of Sesame Street: The Musical Off-Broadway playing the human among Muppets, and he is currently the Membership and Communications Associate for the national organization Theatre For Young Audiences/USA, whose Executive Director is a fellow Summer Stage alum--Sara Morgulis, nee Orr. Stephen also runs a podcast about the theatre for young audiences called Pipe and Drape**, which just concluded its second season! I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
You can follow Stephen with these links:**@stephenindisguise on Instagram
stephenfala.com
@pipeanddrapestories on Instagram
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pipe-and-drape-the-theatre-for-young-audiences-podcast/id1577630316
We all have stories to tell, and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please follow Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Flynn Nolen, and we are joined by a mystery guest, making this episode my first with more than one guest. Flynn was literally born into theatre. His parents, Terry and Amy, met each other during Summer Stage’s first decade. **They launched Philadelphia’s Arden Theatre Company in 1988. Flynn is a sophomore at Penn State University where he studies theatre and performs with The Statemen, University Park’s premiere male acapella group. Best of all, Flynn can’t wait for Summer Stage 2023 to begin. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some
fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True*, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.*
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Bill Buddendorf. I am surprised to learn that Bill was in the last show I did at Summer Stage in 1985. Bill took the enthusiasm and talents he developed at Summer Stage with him to a performing arts high school and college. He shares his skills as a professor at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Using the name Bill Budd, he writes original music, records albums, and performs live. Unfortunately, two sections of this recording are cut out because of interference from a BlueTooth device. They lasted only a few seconds and you will notice I fill the gaps with a few seconds of our theme music, a trick I learned from our friends over at The Naked Lunch Podcast. **I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages.
Bill’s music website is billbuddmusic.com and his albums can be found on Spotify, Apple Music, and all streaming platforms. Follow Bill on Instagram @bill_budd.**
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too; however BlueTooth ones are not 100% reliable, so see if you can borrow wired ones.
Support the show
My guest is Jared Paxson. Jared claims he was born into Summer Stage. As the son of a staff member and the little brother of a high-profile performer, lauded with Summer Stager of the Year honors, he forged his early identity as an out-of-control brat; however, he grew out of that phase and grew up during what he coins, “The Marcus Years.” I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
My guest is Dawn Morningstar. In 1989, Dawn auditioned for and was cast in Guys and Dolls as a Hot Box dancer. She stayed around for 25 years as a dancer, choreographer, and director. She values the creative and collaborative spirits that permeate everything at Summer Stage. As an educator, Dawn values her role as a mentor for others. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
My guest is Sean Meenan. Sean graduated from Springfield High School and now attends Widener University where he studies Mechanical Engineering and Physics. He is a Summer Stager of the Year Award **recipient and is still a member eagerly anticipating next summer. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.Brave and Strong and True **relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
You can follow Sean on Instagram @smeenan_20**
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
**My guest is Chris Monaco. Chris graduated from Strath Haven High School, Temple University, and Villanova University. He’s an incredible performer, and his burgeoning love for theater began in middle school and continues to this day. Chris is a teacher at Gladwyne Montessori and he also directs the theatre program at Upper Darby High School. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True****, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
You can follow Chris on Instagram @gingerbeard1992.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
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**My guest is Marcu Stevens. Marcus does it all, tremendously. He’s an incredible performer, a wonderful writer, and an amazing director. Not only is he a musical theatre powerhouse, but he is also a genuinely nice person. Simply stated, Marcus Stevens is impressive. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True****, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Visit www.marcus-stevens.com to keep up with Marcus’ work.**
The soundtrack to Mythic is available here https://www.tfront.com/p-50788-mythic-a-new-musical-original-london-cast-recording-lyrics-by-marcus-stevens.aspx
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
Monday, October 31, 2022
Hello. This is Bob. We don’t have an episode this week, and I want to explain why. Up until now, we have had at least one new episode every week. We launched Brave and Strong and True in June and dropped the first four episodes in the first week. The next three weeks brought two new episodes each week. Since June 18, we have delivered a new show each week. Our 25th episode dropped last Monday.
Starting next week, on November 7, new episodes will be available every other Monday. We’ll be back on November 7 with a very special guest, Marcus Stevens. My interview with Chris Monaco will drop on November 21.
If you listen on Apple Podcasts, please rate the show and consider writing a review. Apple uses the reviews to determine which new podcasts they feature and promote.
I would love to include a new feature to read listener mail. If you’re really not interested in a full fledge interview and would rather send me a written story, I will read it and attribute it to you in upcoming episodes.
While we’re all here, I would like to thank some folks. Thank you, listeners, for your support and encouragement. Thank you guests for sharing your memories and stories. Thank you, Kevin Dietzler and Chris Luner for your blind faith in my abilities to make this happen. Thank you to those who support the show financially for lifting the financial costs of production away from me. Thank you to Susan, my wife, for all those hours of silence while I was recording. And, thank you to Harry and Dotty Dieztler for their sincere appreciation of what I am trying to do with this podcast.
As always, I welcome your feedback and love it when folks reach out to me, asking me to be a future guest. Please email me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com
Please continue being brave and strong and true as you fill the world with love.
Support the show
My guest is Andy Brown. When I interviewed Andy, he was in his dorm room at George Mason University in Fairfax County, Virginia. Andy is my 25th guest and also my youngest one. His enthusiasm and love for Summer Stage will amaze you. Not only is Andy still a member of Summer Stage, but also he is the reigning Summer Stager of the Year. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
If anyone would like to contact Andy, please send him a message at brownandy739@gmail.com**
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Support the show
My guest is Garry Lennon. Garry joined Summer Stage in 1978 and contributed 13 years of service, first as a performer, and then as a designer, and a director. His love of theatre and his accumulated experiences led to a career in theatre designing, directing, and teaching at California State University, North Ridge for the past two decades. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
You can discover more about Garry’s design work at Garry Lennon
www.csun.edu/TADW is Garry’s summer workshop program
https://mixedblood.com/ is a theatre company run by Mark Valdez, Garry’s husband.
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment. Apple chooses to promote shows that receive a lot of ratings and comments.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
**My guest is Ann Pinto McCarney. Ann spent a solid decade as a Summer Stager from 1981-1990. She self-proclaims that she was boy crazy, had many crushes, was a picky dater, and eventually settled down with the love of her life, getting married in a royal Summer Stage wedding to Dean McCarney. Ann kept performing her whole life and is best known for her stunning voice and outrageous sense of humor. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
You can find Ann on Tik Tok and Instgram @anntics67**
Subscribe to Ann on https://www.youtube.com/c/annpintomccarney Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Support the show
**My guest is Brian Mahoney. Brian found out about Summer Stage from a classmate at Scranton University. He was hired in 1978 as a tech director. He is remembered for his inspiring leadership, work ethic, and sense of humor. He became a big brother as many of us looked up to him. Well, he is very tall. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True****, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Brian would love to hear from his old friends and can be reached at Domino17@gmail.com**
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
My guest is Monica Horan Rosenthal. Monica joined Summer Stage when she was a dancer at Prendie. She is remembered for playing Veta in Harvey, Mrs. McAfee in Bye Bye Birdie, Adelaide in Guys and Dolls, and Miss Hanigan in Annie. Monica has also appeared in 66 episodes of Everybody Loves Raymond **as Amy McDougall Barone. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Monica would like you to know more about the Delaware County Literacy Council https://delcoliteracy.org/champions-of-adult-literacy/**
Of course, Bob botched the quote from Crimes and Misdemeanors. It really is “Don't listen to what your teachers tell you, you know. Don't pay attention. Just, just see what they look like and that's how you'll know what life is really gonna be like.”
**The final lines from the same film are thus: “We are all faced throughout our lives with agonizing decisions. Moral choices. Some are on a grand scale. Most of these choices are on lesser points. But! We define ourselves by the choices we have made. We are in fact the sum total of our choices. Events unfold so unpredictably, so unfairly, human happiness does not seem to have been included, in the design of creation. It is only we, with our capacity to love, that give meaning to the indifferent universe. And yet, most human beings seem to have the ability to keep trying, and even to find joy from simple things like their family, their work, and from the hope that future generations might understand more.”
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
I’d like to thank Jane Baker for editing this episode.
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Support the show
**My guest is Erich Glasbrenner. Erich started doing plays at Drexel Hill Junior High and joined the inaugural season of Summer Stage. During our conversation, he bravely recalls how Summer Stage began as his life was at a crossroads. By the end, we are both laughing our heads off. This episode is rated “mature audience” due to a few expletives. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here. Welcome to Brave and Strong and True****, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.**
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Support the show
My guest is Grace Kocsko Vouvalis. Grace was a member from 1977 to 1984. Trained as a dancer, Summer Stage developed her vocal and dramatic skills. She is remembered for her portrayals of Cinderella, Tuptim in The King and I, Fiona in Brigadoon, and of course, Maria in West Side Story**. She relocated to Florida where she worked as an ATF agent. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Grace requests that anyone who would like to contact her here do so at gkvouvalis@gmail.com.
Correction: I said "MacNuggets" not "McDonald's."
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Please click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Support the show
**My guest is Donna Kelly Romero. Donna grew up in Upper Darby and enjoyed watching children’s theatre at Summer Stage as a child. In 1987, she started as an Apprentice and worked her way up to staff in the late 90s where she developed a deep appreciation for her mentors which led to her pursuit to study theatre along with education. Donna returned as a staffer from 2008-2013. At Harry’s request, she returned to help out in the Apprentice program for the summer of 2021. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. Click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes to support the show.
Support the show
**My guest is Suzanne Smart. Suzanne grew up on Garrett Road and after Prendie, went to Allentown College of Saint Francis DeSales. She is remembered for her powerful voice and was a lot of fun to work with. She lives an actor’s life and has been working most of her life in television. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Suzanne’s professional work: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3399789/**
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please get in touch with me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
It would be best if you had a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Brave and Strong and True relies on financial support from its listeners. To support the show, click the “Support the Show” link at the bottom of the show notes.
Support the show
My guest is Jane Baker. Jane grew up in Havertown and after Prendie, went to Hofstra University along with her closest friends. Summer Stage introduced her to improvisational comedy which is her lifelong passion. She is an author of two memoirs, a podcast producer, and a writer of an autobiographical screenplay. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Jane’s three podcasts The Who Was Podcast, Meditation with Jane, and We’re Dying Here can be found on Apple Podcasts.**
Jane’s books Nobody Ever Dies When I’m AroundandSomething Only We Knoware both on Amazon.
If you are a charitable person looking to make donations, Jane kindly recommends The Muscular Dystrophy Association and Camp Sunshine.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please get in touch with me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
It would be best if you had a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.Brave and Strong and True relies on support from its listeners. To support the show, click the link below.
Support the show
My guest is Jaskie Ostick. Jackie joined Summer Stage in 1998. She started out small, but as her confidence grew she took on bigger roles. She became a member of The Shooting Stars and a staff member. After graduating from De Sales University, she moved to New York City where and performs professionally around the country. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Jackie’s website**
http://www.jackieostick.com/
Jackie’s newsletter https://confirmsubscription.com/h/t/A2DD2100E4C0B4C2
Foods of New York tours (where Jackie is a tour guide)
https://www.foodsofny.com/
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
My guest is Celestine Silverman. Cel’s first show was The Music Man **in 1977. She met her husband, Bill Pettigrove at Summer Stage. She cherishes the friendships she made in her youth and loves returning for the reunions. I remember her for her infectious laugh and she’s still got it. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I’m Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
My guest is Tracey Rush. Tracey’s first show was Annie in 1982. This experience became a pivotal moment in her life where she made life-long friends. She developed a sense of confidence that propelled her into a leading figure in the field of education. She’s now a proud Summer Stage mom as her son has embraced the joy of performing for others. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. I am Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
My guest is Robb Del Casale. Robb was part of the South Philly migration of 1981. He fondly remembers Bye, Bye Birdie, Fiorello!, Brigadoon, Guys and Dolls, On Your Toes, and 1987’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Robb shares some funny stories about missing cues and how he became the voice of a very well-known advertising character. He also explains what tennis players really think of pickleball. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
My guest is John Foley. John met Harry in first grade and worked at Summer Stage from 1977 to 1979. He moved to California and was part of the tech boom, participating in many dot-com start-ups. His success in business coincided with many opportunities in show business. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .
John's Bookstore in San Francisco https://www.foliosf.com/
John's Improv Group https://www.killingmylobster.com/ The underground entertainment venue https://www.thespeakeasysf.com/
A short film John made https://vimeo.com/49724071 We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
**You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Corrections: The Music Man was August 1977, not August 1979.**
Support the show
My guest is Joe Hummel. Joe admits to only being a part-time member of Summer Stage, but during those early years, he developed an appreciation for organizational skills as well as an increased self-confidence that led to him becoming a successful entrepreneur. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein.
Check out Pop Culture Madness https://popculturemadness.com/PCM/**
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
My guest is Nancy Reisen. Nancy is from the second decade of Summer Stage. Her parents brought her to see many mainstage shows and children’s theatre shows before she joined at 14. She talks about the friends she made and the importance of Summer Stage in her life. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein.
Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
**We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
My guest is Tara Urban Fox. Tara’s Summer Stage experience spanned a period of 15 years as a performer, staff member, choreographer, and director. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages, produced and hosted by Bob Falkenstein.
You can reach Tara at tara@ascoopofmagic.com Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases**
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com. You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein.
**My guest is Dave Alterman. Dave works for the government by day and composes classical music on the side. He fondly remembers his time at Summer Stage. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .
Here are some links to hear performances of music composed by David Marc Alterman:*https://soundcloud.com/user-688595177/pavane-for-double-reed-ensemble-david-marc-alterman-c2009https://soundcloud.com/user-688595177/tango-op75david
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSlIg3u45nI Our music is composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases*
Please subscribe to Brave and Strong and True on Apple Podcasts. While you’re there, please rate the show and leave a comment.
If you want to be a guest on Brave and Strong and True, please contact me at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com.
You must have a desktop or laptop computer running the latest version of the Google Chrome browser. It helps if you have an external microphone and headphones, but Apple earbuds work too.
Support the show
**This conversation is with Suzi Waldie. Suzi is one of my favorite people from my Summer Stage days. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.**
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages.
The music was composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
If you subscribe to Apple Podcasts, please leave a comment.
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein.
This interview is with Bob Babish. Bob graduated from Upper Darby High School in 1976 and rolled his talent and experience immediately into the inaugural Summer Stage season as one of the earliest staff members. He performed, directed, and taught, but he is mostly remembered for his inspiring set designs. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .
The music was composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
In order to be a guest, you must have a desktop or laptop computer, running the Chrome browser, a microphone, and headphones. Apple earbuds are fine. Send me an email at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com and we’ll figure out when to get you on the show.
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein.
This interview is with Mark Morgan. Mark was very active in Summer Stage from 1981 to 1985. Twenty years ago, he developed a thriving community theatre in his new hometown of Moorestown, New Jersey. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .The music was composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases In order to be a guest, you must have a desktop or laptop computer, running the Chrome browser, a microphone, and headphones. Apple earbuds are fine. Send me an email at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com and we’ll figure out when to get you on the show.
We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
**Welcome to Brave and Strong and True, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein.
Chris is a professional. He’s a teacher, and an entrepreneur; he has performed on stage and on television and remains active in leadership roles with the unions. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .
Follow Chris on Instagram @sappyactor**The music was composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
In order to be a guest, you must have a desktop or laptop computer with a microphone and headphones. Apple earbuds are fine. Send me an email at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com and we’ll figure out when to get you on the show.
Welcome to Brave and Strong and True**, a podcast created to engage Summer Stage alumni of all ages. My name is Bob Falkenstein. We all have stories to tell and they can be heard here.
This interview is with Neil Mc Gettigan. I met Neil in 1983 and we continue to keep in touch. I hope you enjoy our conversation, so, come along and have some fun. . . .**The music was composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
In order to be a guest, you must have a desktop or laptop computer with a microphone and headphones. Apple earbuds are fine. Send me an email at braveandstrongandtrue@gmail.com and we’ll figure out when to get you on the show.
In the very first episode, I interview Chuck NIccolls who was active from Summer 1976 through 1986. Chuck claims to be the first person to step on the stage back on the very first day in 1976.
I was very nervous and I need to control how often I say, "Ah."
The music was composed and performed by Neil McGettigan https://neilmcgettiganandtheeleventhhour.bandcamp.com/releases
To be a guest on Brave and Strong and True you need a desktop or laptop computer running the latest Chrome Browser along with a microphone and headphones. Reach out to me at braveandstrongandtrue@email.com.