Embracing Arlington Arts Talks

The "Embracing Arlington Arts Talks" host Janet Kopenhaver welcomed to the podcast the Director of the "Devising Hope" program at the Educational Theatre Company Francesca Chilcote to talk about this extremely uplifting and effective program. She explained how teenagers work with Street Sense vendors (many of whom are homeless) to learn about each other and break down myths about both groups. Also learn about one experience that particularly resonated with her. Ashley Hammond the organization's Managing Director also talks about upcoming camps.

The President of the Arlington Artists Alliance Michael Allison appeared on the "Embracing Arlington Arts Talks" podcast to update us on all the Alliance activities, including ArtFest and "It's a Steal." Also he gave us details about his very unique process of acrylic painting style using adhesives. Also find out which portraits are more popular - people or pets? Very interesting interview for artists ad art lovers both!

Actors Adelina Mitchell and Garnet Williams appeared on the "Embracing Arlington Arts Talks" podcast to give us all the details about the upcoming production at Monumental Theatre Company - "Head Over Heels." What makes this show unique? Why did Monumental decide to present this play? Which iconic 1980's band's music is featured in the production? All these questions, as well as their dream roles, are answered in this interesting interview.

The Arlington Arts Center is planning to launch a really interesting public art exhibit on their front lawn very soon. The exhibit, which relates to the history of the Maury Building, where the Center is located and Arlington slavery history, showcases the work of Artist Lynda Andrews-Barry. In this interview, Lynda tells about the unique project, her research about the topic, why this project was so important to her, and more. Curator Blair Murphy fills in details about how the project came to be.

The Education Programs Manager for Encore Stage & Studio Patrick McGee was the guest on the "Embracing Arlington Arts Talks" podcast to talk about the multi-faceted educational programs the organization offers. From 0 to 18 years of age, there is something for everyone. Find out what students can learn and what skills they can develop by participating in these programs. Also hear about his theater experiences in the Midwest and how theater there differs from DC theater. Very interesting insight.

Chil Kong, the Artistic Director of Adventure Theatre, speaks from the heart about the importance of children's theater in the DMV and in forming adult theater patrons in this "Embracing Arlington Arts Talks" interview. Appearing as a featured guest as part of our five-part "Artistic Directors STEAM Ahead" series starring the five most successful theaters in the DC region, Chil talks about his multi-faceted film and theater career, diversity challenges in the performing arts industry, how children benefit from exposure to theater and much more. Also hear his unique description of those working in the industry. Very entertaining and insightful interview.

Bowen McCauley Dance Company's Founding Artistic Director Lucy Bowen McCauley and Executive Director Helen Chamberlin were guests on the Embracing Arlington Arts Talks podcast to update us on the many exciting events they have coming up. From the "Move Me" festival to the Kennedy Center to collaboration with the National Chamber Ensemble and the Arlington Philharmonic, there is a lot on the schedule. Find out about all these events, and get a sneak peek at their plans for the company's 25th Anniversary during this interview.

Ryan Rilette, the Artistic Director of Round House Theatre appeared on the "Embracing Arlington Arts Talks" podcast as part of our five-part "Artistic Directors STEAM Ahead" series starring the five most successful theaters in the DC region. Why are the arts important? How is he making the theater more representative of the community where they are located? What is critical to succeeding in an arts management career? Answers to those questions and much more are included in this wide-ranging interview with Ryan.

The Artistic Director of Arena Stage Molly Smith was a featured guest on the "Embracing Arlington Arts Talks" podcast as part of our five-part "Artistic Directors STEAM Ahead" series starring the five most successful theaters in the DC region. Hear her very insightful advice for listeners interested in an arts management career; learn about her own journey and successes in the theater profession; what changes she has witnessed in theater productions, and much more. What an honor to interview Molly who has broken so many glass ceilings for women in the theater management world in the DC region.

Embracing Arlington Arts Talks featured The Arlington Players' director Ashley Amidon and Actor Mel Gumina who talked about the upcoming production of Agatha Christie's "A Daughter's a Daughter." This US premiere explores not only a complicated mother-daughter relationship, but also many others throughout the production. Find out how the cast was prepped to play these roles, the interesting rumor about why this show was not really performed until 2009 and what precipitates the tortured relationships. Also which roles are on each guest's bucket list?