S4 E5: Delaware State of the Arts - Grand Opera House and Playhouse

Get ready to transport yourself to the vibrant performing arts scene of Southern Delaware with our special guests, David Button, the Artistic Director and Stephanie Hudson-Whitcomb, the Director of Development and Outreach at Clear Space Theatre Company. They'll take you behind the scenes of their inspiring journey and the intriguing story behind the theater's unique name, pulling back the curtain on some of their exciting shows lined up for the 2023 season. 'God's Bell', 'Young Frankenstein' and the holiday musical 'Estella Scrooge' are just a few that will pique your curiosity. 

We delve into why Clear Space is not just a theatre company, but a community builder, uniting people from all backgrounds through their love for art. You'll hear about their innovative community outreach programs, their commitment to arts education through the Arts Institute, and how these initiatives are shaping the next generation of performers by fostering self-esteem and public speaking skills. We also explore the universal power of the arts in creating shared experiences and fostering connections, regardless of our differences. So, join us for a captivating conversation that serves as a testament to the transformative power of the arts.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of choral music as we sit down with David Christopher, the Founder and Artistic Director of Delaware ChoralArts. This is a fascinating journey into the heart of an organization that's not just about music, but about building community and nurturing talents in Wilmington and beyond. Listen closely as David shares the unique dynamics of a chorus that can expand and contract depending on the performance, and get a taste of the audition process that aligns with their purpose of inclusivity and diversity.

We also give you an exclusive sneak peek into exciting performances on the horizon. From a thrilling collaboration with The Whitney Project and the Wilmington Children's Chorus to the Golden Harp performance featuring works of globally-acclaimed composers Malcolm Boyle, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Gweneth Walker, and Dan Forrest, there's a feast for your ears. This episode is a poignant narrative of how choral music in Delaware and beyond weaves people together in an extraordinary way. Music enthusiasts, this one's for you.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Prepare to be captivated as we delve into the enchanting world of opera with the Wilmington Concert Opera. We explore their upcoming performance of Hansel und Gretel, a German opera that's rarely seen on stage but holds a wealth of beauty and emotion. Attendees of the family-friendly performance on November 12th are in for a treat with crafts, snacks, and a gingerbread house building activity. We also delve into the significant benefits of introducing children to opera at a young age, all while enjoying the soothing notes of the famous lullaby from the opera.

This episode doesn't stop at the performance, we draw back the curtain on the larger mission of the Wilmington Concert Opera. With a passionate commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and nurturing new talent, we uncover their strategies for discovering fresh voices in opera. We also discuss their expansion plans, including a virtual recital series and upcoming performances of Diefle der Maus and the Voices of Home Gala in May 2024. Lastly, we turn our attention to the role of creativity and risk-taking in fostering successful careers in opera. This episode is a must-listen for opera enthusiasts and anyone curious about the art form and its future.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Join us as we highlight our remarkable guest - Jill Althouse-Wood, an emerging DDOA fellow in the world of visual arts, whose work is heavily influenced by the culture of Arden, Delaware and the serene landscapes of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Jill shares her artistic evolution, from gilded abstract forestscapes to the forest as a symbol of mystery and transformation, and how she's managed to keep her creativity alive in the challenging times of the pandemic. She also gives us an inside look at the Arden Artisans Collective, where she plays a crucial role, and their exciting future exhibitions.

Get an insider's view of Jill's recent show at the Buzz Ware Gallery, where she uses art to navigate through the complex emotions stirred by the recent past, inspiring others to share their narratives. Gain insights into how her fellowship has expanded her artistic practice, and glean priceless advice for budding artists. Lastly, stay tuned as we give you a sneak peek into her upcoming exhibition at the Arden Buzz Ware Gallery. Be prepared for an inspiring and enlightening journey into the world of an artist, guided by Jill Althouse-Wood herself.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Lift the curtain and catch a glimpse into the harmonious world of the Newark Symphony Orchestra. Our guest, Simeone Tartaglione, the orchestra's esteemed music director, offers an enchanting narrative of how the orchestra has woven its magic into the fabric of the local community. Simeone talks about everything from the orchestra's collaborations with local art organizations to their annual youth concerto competition for nurturing budding talent. He also shares heartwarming anecdotes of their holiday concerts that create a bridge of unity among various churches in the region.

We also strike a chord on the orchestra's endeavours to make music accessible to all, including instrument donations and hosting concerts in local parks. Simeone passionately discusses the transformative power of orchestral music, its universal appeal, and the range of emotions it can stir within us. This episode is a symphony of thoughts on the enduring significance of orchestral music, irrespective of whether you're a classical music connoisseur or a beginner. Tune in, and let the music play!

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

What if you had the opportunity to unlock the hidden stories of historic artifacts in the collections of the Historic Odessa Foundation? You're about to get a front row seat on a journey through time as we navigate the captivating tales of the Corbett and Wilson family collections, objects that have witnessed history unfold, from the 1770s to later generations. Executive Director of the Historic Odessa Foundation, Debbie Buxton, and author Dr. Philip Zimmerman, join us to share the rich history and intriguing stories woven into the fabric of their new book, A Storied Past Collections of Historic Odessa.

Get ready to be captivated by tales of community involvement and connection in Odessa, such as the heartwarming story of a quilt crafted for a dying individual and the fascinating evolution of mid-19th-century chairs labeled 'Odessa'. Discover how these pieces are not just objects, but portals to the past, revealing the intricate networks of those who lived before us. We also explore the technological marvels of the time, such as the automated lathe technology from Chairville, NJ, that played a crucial part in creating these historic objects. This enlightening discussion underscores the Historic Odessa Foundation's commitment to preserving and celebrating their heritage and offers insights into how you can get involved. So sit back, relax and let's unfold the pages of history together.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Prepare to be inspired as we share an enlightening conversation with Coney Maderyaga, a uniquely talented artist and 2023 fellow from the Delaware Division of the Arts. Discover how her roots in Santiago, Chile and her passion for Frida Kahlo have shaped her artistic journey. Alongside her, we unravel the fascinating crossroads where her background in behavioral sciences meets her creative endeavors. As a dedicated teaching artist, Coney is passionate about uplifting her fellow artists within the Delaware group, and she couldn't be more excited to give us a sneak peek into her upcoming exhibition, "Extranjera/Extranjero".

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Step into the vibrant world of hip hop with "Grouchy" Greg Watkins, the founder of AllHipHop.com. We're thrilled to have him as our guide as we navigate the pulsating journey of hip hop, right from that climactic day on August 11th, 1973, when it all began, to its evolution into an unbeatable cultural phenomenon. We're celebrating half a century of hip hop, and what's better than doing it in Delaware, a state with significant contributions to this genre.

Gear up for a sneak peek into the Delaware Hip Hop Summit Celebration, which promises a multicultural extravaganza marking the 50th anniversary of hip hop. The event will be a homage to the early hip hop days, the legacy of Delaware artists, and their global impact. From workshops, activities, exhibitions to heart-thumping DJ showcases, graffiti, panel discussions, there's a lot in store. So, get ready to soak in the rich tapestry of hip hop culture, its roots, and the extent of its influence today.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Let's paint a vibrant picture with Sara Ganter, the Executive Director of the Rehoboth Art League. As we traverse through the storied 85-year history of this unique organization, you'll gain a deep appreciation for its journey from humble beginnings in 1938 to its current status as a celebrated arts hub. Sara intricately details how the league, formed as a congregation and exhibition space for artists, now offers an impressive array of over 150 classes and 20 annual exhibitions. You'll hear about the league's mission to weave arts into the fabric of people's lives and learn about the breathtaking facilities nestled near Rehoboth Beach.

The narrative continues as we explore the league's dynamic community outreach, particularly their exceptional work with the Delaware Division of the Arts' Equity and Innovation Incubator program. Sara shares how this venture has facilitated the league's expansion to underserved communities in Sussex, ensuring that their influence isn't confined to the coast. In a testament to the power of unity, we also delve into the league's thriving collaborations with other arts organizations, demonstrating how creative thinking and synergy can enrich Delaware's quality of life. Stay tuned for an artifact of a local artist's journey, the upcoming solo show by Rebecca Raubacher, and an insightful discussion into the transformative role of art in the community.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.

Get ready to make your entrance into the entertainment world with Loren LoRosa. She's a powerhouse in pop culture, news, and entertainment, and she's got a tale or two to share about her transition from TMZ to founding her own production company, Brown Girl Grinding. As a first-generation college student hailing from the inner city, Loren will provide you with an abundance of invaluable insights into how her upbringing fueled her journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur.

Settle in as we journey through Loren's enchanting world, filled with high-stakes interviews and Bronco grinding meetups. Discover her secret to staying connected in the energetic entertainment, fashion, and social media industries. Loren opens up about the unexpected twists on her career path and the critical role her support network of family and friends has played in her success. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just love a good success story, Loren's experiences are bound to inspire.

Our enlightening conversation doesn't stop there. Loren brings fresh perspective on what success really means, emphasizing the importance of happiness and lifting others up. We'll tackle the challenging aspects of creative industries, such as financing projects and relationship building. We wrap up our chat with an engaging discussion about Loren's work with the Delaware State of the Arts Podcast. Don't miss out as Loren shares her commitment to guiding future entrepreneurs. Every story, every insight is a step closer to your own success story.

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is committed to supporting the arts and cultivating creativity to enhance the quality of life in Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Learn more at Arts.Delaware.Gov.

Delaware State of the Arts is a weekly podcast that presents interviews with arts organizations and leaders who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of communities throughout Delaware. Delaware State of the Arts is provided as a service of the Division of the Arts, in partnership with NEWSRADIO 1450 WILM and 1410 WDOV.