Curtain Call Conversations: A Van Wezel Podcast

In a captivating conversation between Muffy Lavens, PR Director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and Robert Westenberg, a key member of the cast of "A Beautiful Noise," listeners are treated to an insider’s glimpse of this extraordinary Neil Diamond musical. This engaging podcast highlights the depth and emotional resonance of the show, which promises to transcend the typical jukebox musical experience.

In this episode of Curtain Call Conversations, host Justin Gomlak speaks with Gretchen Beaumier, a multifaceted artist at Dingbat Theater Project. They discuss the theater's commitment to inclusivity, the Funny Girls program aimed at empowering young women through improv, and the Technical Theater Summer Camp that provides hands-on experience in various backstage roles.

In this episode of Curtain Call Conversations, Kyle and Justin are back to talk about how love is in the air! They highlight upcoming shows and wonder what might happen if famous Broadway characters swapped love interests from other shows.

This episode of Curtain Call Conversations blends education, Broadway, and a little musical fun.

Justin and Muffy talk all things Broadway-themed masterclasses at the Van Wezel, then Muffy sits down with Devin, a performer from MJ to discuss touring, performing, and what it’s like being part of such a high-energy production.

The episode wraps with a fun and silly segment where they build the ultimate masterclass playlist — perfect for warming up, staying motivated, and getting into a Broadway mindset.

A must-listen for performers, students, and theater fans alike.

Curtain Call Conversations is back for 2026, and we're bringing the laughs — and the tap shoes — as we spotlight the hit Broadway musical Some Like It Hot playing the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall January 21-25.

We’re joined by Devon Goffman, who plays Spats, the scene-stealing mobster you love to fear (and laugh at). Devon shares what makes Some Like It Hot such a crowd favorite, from its nonstop comedy and big Broadway spectacle to the incredible chemistry of the cast.

He also shares what life is really like on the road with a touring production, how the show keeps audiences laughing night after night, and why this classic-inspired musical feels fresh, timely, and wildly entertaining.

Whether you’re a Broadway superfan or just love a show that delivers laughs, heart, and high-energy performances, this episode is a must-listen before the curtain goes up.

Get tickets at VanWezel.org

In this episode of Curtain Call Conversations, Education Director Justin Golmak is joined by Deb Lombard to spotlight one of the Van Wezel’s most joyful community offerings: Golden Groovers — a dance class series designed especially for seniors and adult learners.

Golden Groovers is all about movement, music, and connection. Taught by dynamic Van Wezel teaching artists Deb Lombard and Eric van Baars, each class invites participants to warm up their bodies and groove through original choreography inspired by a unique theme. While it’s not a ballroom class, couples are encouraged to attend, making it a fun and social experience for all.

Justin and Deb share what makes the program so special, how it supports lifelong learning and wellness, and why dance at any age is worth celebrating. Whether you’re curious about joining a class or simply love hearing how the arts bring people together, this episode is guaranteed to put a little extra pep in your step.

For more information visit: https://www.vanwezel.org/education-community/programs/classes/goldengroovers

‘Tis the season for tech elves, holiday chaos, and…Celsius-fueled conversations?

In this festive episode, Griffyn and Nate from the technical department take over the mic for a laugh-heavy chat about their favorite holiday foods, movies, and music — plus a few opinions nobody asked for (but we’re glad they shared).

Once the sugar and caffeine settle, they also preview upcoming shows at the Hall, including Michael Feinstein, A Christmas Carol, and the always-elegant Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert.

It’s wholesome, it’s unhinged, it’s holiday fun — Van Wezel style.

For tickets to upcoming shows, visit VanWezel.org

The 2025-2026 Broadway season is here at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and Public Relations Director Muffy Lavens had a chance to speak with Shafiq Hicks from The Book of Mormon. Learn about the upcoming performances at the Van Wezel, playing December 9-14, 2025. Plus, learn about Shafiq's career touring with other productions and performing for the Pope! It's a career you'll want to learn more and more about. Get tickets to The Book of Mormon at https://www.vanwezel.org/events/detail/the-book-of-mormon

Executive Director Mary Bensel and Public Relations Director Muffy Lavens sat down with the mean, green one himself...The Grinch! All the way from Mount Crumpit, The Grinch stopped by the Van Wezel to share a little bit about his musical, Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, coming to Sarasota November 14-16 for five performances. Tickets on sale now at VanWezel.org

October 22 is National Make a Dog's Day so Manatee County-based nonprofit Dogs, Inc. joins Van Wezel Public Relations Director Muffy Lavens to discuss what exactly Dogs Inc does. Duo-Certified Training Marisa Blanco shares the importance of training guide dogs and service dogs, and talks about the day guide dog trainers spent at the Van Wezel so the dogs could get some real life experience in a theater setting. Then, meet the dogs of the Van Wezel! Staff members share their furry friends they go home to each day after work.

Learn more about Dogs, Inc. at dogsinc.org

See all the upcoming shows at the Van Wezel by visiting VanWezel.org