CIVIC STORIES: A South Bend Civic Theatre podcast with Alex Peek

In today’s episode, I have special guest host Aaron Nichols as he interviews Loria Perez and Dekota Smallwood. Loria is the Guest Service Manager at SBCT. She is here to discuss #Enough along with one of her Change Agents Dekota Smallwood.  

In today’s episode, we talk with Jerry O’Boyle, who is currently directing A Little Night Music which opened last weekend. If you aren’t familiar with A Little Night Music, it’s a musical by Sondheim about a lawyer with his young bride who he takes to a play starring a former lover. Jerry explains all the twists and turns of the plot during our conversation. 

Originally from Chicago, Jerry began his theratre involvement in 6th grade when he was cast as “Raymond the stocky stock boy.” While he was not thrilled about that title, he was thrilled when he heard the applause after the performance. 

In today’s episode, I have Michelle Reynolds. If you have come to the theater, you have most likely been in contact with Michelle. She works in the Box Office at the South Bend Civic and her job title is Director of Smiles and Happiness! Michelle will be celebrating her 5th year anniversary with SBCT when this episode drops, so listen in on how this non-theater gal became one of the most important people at the theater. 

From Alex:
“Michelle is without a doubt my most requested guest and it took a while to get her one! I’m not joking, since my first episode with Aaron and other SBCT employees, her name has been dropped well over a dozen times to be a future guest.”

In today’s episode, I have Kirsten Campbell. Kirsten is a long-time volunteer and current part-time employee under the Children’s Education program at South Bend Civic. We discuss how she became a part of SBCT via her kids, what she has volunteered for over the years and her “tragic” history of trying to be on stage for a show! She is also a fellow Band Geek! 

In today's episode, I have Johnny Yoder. This week is another 'Behind the Scenes' episode. Let's just say COVID is making this really hard! With cancelations, postponements, and sickness, it is making it difficult to find and keep guests. So I wanted to take the opportunity to highlight another episode I recorded in preparation for Civic Stories. 

"Johnny's story is a good tale for many young actors to hear. He had a plan, and that plan changed (a few times!). But he kept moving forward, and while his life's original plan didn't happen, he has found a new one that is bringing him much happiness." - Alex 

In today's episode, I have my wife, Lindsey, on! As you know, when she is on, I wasn't able to get a guest; listen in to find out why. Today, we discuss the history of the Tony Awards. Listen in to find out its origins, where Tony's name comes from, and the Bests and Mosts from the Tonys.

To understand the title, you'll have to listen in! But know, since the CIVIC is closed (for the holidays) and all are on vacation, this was recorded a few weeks ago, so that may give a little insight on the title. 

In today's episode, I have on Executive Director Aaron Nichols. It is that time of year where Aaron and I wrap up 2021 and let everyone know what's in store for 2022!

In today’s episode, I take you backstage to the Green Room at SBCT to hear from the cast of ‘A Christmas Carol.’ This was before a show performance where I grabbed as many people as I could for short interviews to talk about their time with SBCT. They shared their experiences with A Christmas Carol and many fond Christmas memories. A good time was had by all!

In today’s episode, I have returning guest Jeremy Phillips. I wanted to catch up with Jeremy and see how his first few months at the theater have been. After catching up, the conversation went to talking about his role as the Volunteer Coordinator. We both discuss the importance of volunteers at the theater and the large role they play to make sure the theater keeps moving forward. To learn more about how to volunteer at SBCT you can email Jeremy at ‘[email protected]’ to be added to the volunteer email list.

In today's episode, I have Aaron Mays. Aaron is the Playwright of SBCT's new adaption of 'A Christmas Carol.' Today's episode goes deep into what everyone coming to see 'A Christmas Carol' can expect. We get into how Aaron was brought on to adapt the Novella into something new for all to see at SBCT. We also get into what inspired his adaptation and what we hope people will get out of the show! I say we because I'm actually involved in this show! And you'll get to hear about my involvement with 'A Christmas Carol'!