On the Aisle with Tom Alvarez

Alexa Abbott joins Tom Alvarez to share her journey from competitive gymnastics to a dynamic career in musical theater, burlesque, and fitness. From performing in Cats and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Yuletide Celebration to teaching Pilates and yoga, Alexa discusses the discipline, versatility, and passion required to balance multiple careers. Along the way, she highlights the importance of kindness, perseverance, and following your dreams while helping others discover strength and confidence through movement.

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In this engaging conversation with host Tom Alvarez, Judith B. Thomas reflects on a career shaped by mentorship, reinvention, and a deep commitment to building stronger communities. As president and CEO of the Indy Arts Council, Thomas shares how her experiences in public service, communications, and cultural leadership have prepared her to champion Indianapolis’s vibrant arts scene, support local artists, and create opportunities for people from all backgrounds. Drawing inspiration from the trailblazing women who paved the way before her, she emphasizes the importance of preserving the city’s rich cultural history, fostering meaningful partnerships, and ensuring that the arts remain accessible to everyone. From public art and creative fellowships to celebrating the diverse communities that make Indianapolis unique, Thomas offers a compelling reminder that building community begins with connection, collaboration, and bringing more people to the table. Her message is clear: supporting local artists and embracing the arts enriches the entire city and helps create a more vibrant, inclusive future for all.

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In this engaging conversation with host Tom Alvarez, veteran actor, director, and producer Eddie Curry reflects on a remarkable career spanning more than three decades at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, where he has performed in 98 productions and directed 88. From his Southern Indiana roots and early love of performance to his evolution as a respected figure in Indianapolis theater, Curry shares insights into the art of storytelling, the importance of collaboration, and the realities of auditions, rejection, and life as a working actor. Now embracing new opportunities in independent film and television, he discusses the challenges and excitement of transitioning from stage to screen while remaining committed to his creative passion. Filled with candid reflections, practical advice for aspiring performers, and a deep appreciation for the arts community, this conversation celebrates a career built on adaptability, perseverance, and the belief that the next act can be the most rewarding one yet.

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Zachary DePue reflects on his remarkable journey from a musical childhood in Ohio to the Philadelphia Orchestra, Time for Three, and his years as concertmaster in Indianapolis before finding a new home with the Naples Philharmonic. In a warm and candid conversation, he shares stories of making classical music more accessible, his deep connections to Indianapolis, and his life and work in Naples, offering listeners an intimate look at the musician, collaborator, and community advocate beyond the concertmaster’s chair.

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Jeff Bowen reflects on a lifelong journey through music, from childhood singing and piano lessons to performing, arranging for show choirs, creating original musicals, and leading sing-alongs. He and Tom Alvarez explore the power of live performance, the emotional connections music creates, and the importance of embracing new opportunities, technology, and creative challenges. Bowen also shares the inspiration behind “Llouie the Llama” and offers encouragement to aspiring musicians to keep learning, stay curious, and never stop moving forward.

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In this engaging conversation, Eduardo Luna shares his journey from immigrating from Mexico as a teenager to becoming a passionate advocate, producer, and connector for Latino artists and cultural communities in Indiana. He reflects on how family, festivals, music, visual art, and his Mexican heritage shaped his appreciation for the arts, while discussing the importance of preserving cultural identity without feeling pressured to choose between being Latino and American. Eduardo also highlights his work creating opportunities for Mexican and broader Latino artists through collaborations and free community events, emphasizing how the arts can build community, celebrate diverse traditions, and challenge stereotypes. His story offers a thoughtful look at the people and experiences behind the growing visibility of Latino arts and culture in Central Indiana—and the power of staying connected to where you come from while helping others find their voice.

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Host Tom Alvarez talks with Glen Kwok about how the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis fuels world-class artistry, community pride, and career launches for young soloists, powered by volunteers and donor support (including a gold medal prize up to $75,000). Kwok shares a crisp elevator pitch, practical advice for families to “push, but not past joy,” and a call to attend, give at violin.org, and rediscover Indy’s transformed, walkable arts scene—welcoming diverse audiences and celebrating inclusive programming.

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In this captivating episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with maestro David Commanday to celebrate his appointment as Music Director of the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and explore his rich, multifaceted career across symphony, ballet, and opera. Commanday reflects passionately on the healing, connective power of shared live performance, the exceptional acoustical brilliance and pristine silence of the Palladium, and the charm of Carmel’s vibrant, walkable arts community. Looking ahead to an invigorating season that champions cross-disciplinary collaborations—spanning dance partnerships, multimedia tributes, and celebrated American masterworks featuring luminaries like soprano Angela Brown—the dialogue illuminates how dynamic, inclusive programming, diverse representation, and genuine community engagement can break down traditional barriers and redefine the modern orchestral experience.

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Tom Alvarez talks with Leyla Peeran, a global millennial whose multicultural upbringing, travels, and life experiences have shaped her passion for community, the arts, food, and meaningful connections. From growing up in Saudi Arabia with Indian roots to building a new chapter in Indianapolis, Leyla shares lessons on identity, resilience, embracing opportunity, and living authentically. It’s a lively conversation about finding purpose, celebrating diversity, and truly living your best life.

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In this engaging episode of At the Piano with New York-based Music Director John Fischer, Tom Alvarez reconnects with pianist, music director, vocalist, and educator John Fischer to explore his remarkable career in Broadway, cabaret, and live performance. Fischer shares stories of working with Broadway stars, meeting Stephen Sondheim, traveling the country with acclaimed performers, and discovering his musical path from his Arkansas roots to New York City. He also discusses the intimacy and storytelling at the heart of cabaret, his work mentoring aspiring performers, and his connection to Indianapolis and its growing arts scene. Filled with behind-the-scenes stories and insights from a musician who has spent decades at the piano, this episode offers a personal look at the people and experiences that make live performance so special.

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