On this episode of WNY Soundstage, host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Heather Gring, Rare Book Curator at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, and Michael Bosworth, Executive Director of WNY Book Arts Center, about the exhibition AP Gorny: Different from the Rest. The exhibition showcases the work of AP (Anthony Peter) Gorny, a Buffalo-born artist whose career defies easy categorization. Known nationally as a master printmaker, Gorny is also a photographer, sculptor, bookmaker, and performance artist. He is a [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Anthony Parnther, guest conductor of Mozart’s Violin presented by the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.  Conductor and Bassoonist Anthony Parnther is in his sixth season as Music Director of California’s San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra. His extraordinary career ranges from leading major symphony orchestras and selling out premieres at Carnegie Hall to collaborating with artists including Joshua Bell, Jessye Norman, RZA from Wu-Tang Clan, and Rihanna. One of today’s foremost film conductors, [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra’s double-bassist Jonathan Borden about BPO UpClose.  BPO UpClose is an intimate, in-the-round concert experience in Kleinhans Music Hall’s Mary Seaton Room that places audiences at the heart of the orchestra. Led by concertmaster Nikki Chooi and BPO double bassist Jonathan Borden, the program features shorter works spanning from the Renaissance to the 21st century, with musicians sharing insights and context throughout the performance. Following the concert, [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, Host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Ana Gasteyer.  Ana Gasteyer is an actor, singer, and comedian best known for her six seasons on Saturday Night Live. She has made countless television appearances, in addition to an extensive stage career (including starring as Elphaba in Wicked on Broadway). Gasteyer is also an accomplished vocalist with multiple albums that highlight her sharp wit and jazz-infused musical style.  Gasteyer is bringing her Sugar & Booze: A Holiday Spectacular [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, Host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Terry Guest, playwright of OAK at Alleyway Theatre.  Terry Guest is an award winning playwright, actor, director and producer. His play The Magnolia Ballet had its National New Play Network (NNPN) rolling world premiere in 2022. Other plays include: Marie Antionette and the Magical Negros, Milo Imagines the World,  At The Wake of a Dead Drag Queen, Nightbirds, Andy Warhol Presents: The Cocaine Play, and A Ghost in Satin. [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, Host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Eric Huebner and Alex Sesenton.   Eric Huebner is an Associate Professor and Chair of Music at the University at Buffalo (SUNY) where he maintains a studio of graduate and undergraduate piano majors and minors and teaches courses in 20th century piano music and piano literature. Alex Sesenton is the Associate Director of Community Engagement and Concert Director at UB.   UB School of Music has an incredible and robust season [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, Host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Preacher Lawson.  Preacher Lawson is a comedian best known for his energetic delivery, physical comedy, and charismatic stage presence. He gained national recognition as a finalist on America’s Got Talent in 2017 and returned for AGT: The Champions in 2019. Lawson also has a strong online following, sharing stand-up clips, cooking videos, and vlogs on his popular YouTube channel. Preacher Lawson is performing at the Buffalo State Performing Arts [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, Host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Sandy Rustin, actor and playwright of The Cottage at Alleyway Theatre. Sandy Rustin is a prolific American playwright, librettist, and actress whose works often blend sharp wit, feminist perspective, and a fresh take on classic forms. She is best known for The Cottage, which premiered on Broadway in July 2023, after years of regional productions, as well as her adaptation of Clue, which has become one of the most-produced [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, Host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Melissa Etheridge.  Melissa Etheridge is a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and activist whose powerful voice and raw honesty have defined her decades-long career. Known for hits that blend rock, folk, and soul, she has captivated audiences with both her music and her fearless storytelling. Beyond her artistry, Melissa is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and cancer awareness.  She is currently on the road with Indigo Girls for the Yes We [...]

On this episode of WNY Soundstage, host Daniel Lendzian speaks with Kimberley Rampersad, Associate Artistic Director of The Shaw Festival, in Niagara-on-the-Lake, in Ontario, Canada.   Set against the backdrop of charming Victorian architecture and scenic vineyards, The Shaw Festival, was named for George Bernard Shaw, an influential Irish playwright and critic of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for his wit, social commentary, and prolific body of work that challenged societal norms.  Kimberley Rampersad is in her 10th [...]