In this conversation, we dive into the magic and evolution of the Indiana Repertory Theatre’s beloved A Christmas Carol, from its imaginative Tom Haas staging—where actors and minimal props bring Dickens’ world to life on a snowy, sloped stage—to the behind-the-scenes realities of trap doors, rehearsal challenges, and mountains of fake snow. Former director Richard shares the pressure and pride of guiding a production that everyone else in the room had performed for years, the subtle artistic updates made over time, and the influence of new directors like Cara Hihn, whose own childhood experiences at IRT helped shape her inclusive vision. The discussion expands into how theater has long championed representation, diversity, and authenticity in casting, the collaborative joy of working with artists, and the importance of leadership in setting a positive creative environment. We talk about the casting process in the age of Zoom, the resilience of the IRT during COVID—producing streamed productions while many theaters shut down—and the emotional return of audiences craving community. The conversation closes with reflections on the irreplaceable value of live performance, especially in the age of AI, and how theater continues to offer shared human experiences no technology can replicate.

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Part 1 -- Tom welcomes back singer and songwriter Anthony Nunziata to highlight his December 13 holiday fundraising concert at Broadway United Methodist Church, benefiting Actors Theatre of Indiana, Kids Dance Outreach, and the Indianapolis Men’s Chorus. They reflect on Anthony’s many Indiana performances and his growing connection to the city’s arts community.

Anthony shares what he admires about each beneficiary, noting that Kids Dance Outreach will again open the show. The concert will feature music from his new Christmas album, his vinyl release, and special collaborations — including a duet of “The Prayer” with rising local soprano Nicole Soprano.

He also updates Tom on his creative projects: a new original album, a Christmas album of 13 songs, an upcoming Live at Café Carlyle recording, and a newly announced children’s TV show co-created with talent from Sesame Street. They also touch on his collaborations with his twin brother, producer Will Nunziata, and his recent songwriting trip to Tuscany.

Part 2 of the conversation brings together leaders from three Indianapolis arts organizations—Actors Theatre of Indiana (ATI), Kids Dance Outreach (KDO), and the Indianapolis Men’s Chorus (IMC)—to discuss their upcoming collaborative benefit concert organized by arts supporters Michael Schafer and Jeffrey Brinkman.

Host Tom Alvarez guides Judy Fitzgerald, Michael Johnson, and Stephen McCoy through a discussion of how the project came together, their organizations’ missions, and their growth within the local arts community. Each shares a brief history of their group, the challenges of building visibility, and how their backgrounds as performers shape their leadership.

They emphasize collaboration, community impact, and mutual admiration while previewing the December 13 performance at Broadway United Methodist Church featuring all three organizations as well as New York performer Anthony, with proceeds benefiting their nonprofits.

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In this episode, Tom sits down with conductor Lorenzo Lopez for a rich conversation that spans culture, music, and the surprising paths that shape an artist’s life. Calling in from Cleveland, Lorenzo shares his Honduran–Puerto Rican roots, growing up in a multicultural household, and how food, family, and community helped shape his identity. He talks about his time in Indianapolis while earning his master’s degree at Butler University, the city’s vibrant Latino presence, and how those experiences influenced his artistic journey. Lorenzo dives deep into the world of conducting—how he went from piano and French horn to discovering the “magic” of leading an orchestra, why ballet collaborations challenge and inspire him, and what it truly means to honor a composer’s intentions while still bringing your own voice to the podium. From the joys and struggles of live music in dance to the importance of experience, communication, and artistic conviction, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what a conductor actually does and why it matters. Tune in for an insightful, human, and inspiring look into the mind and passion of a modern conductor.

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Part 1

In this podcast episode, the host interviews Scott Osborne, a Carmel-based sculptor and owner of Brown Hound Studio. Osborne shares his journey as a visual artist, discussing his work in sculpture, painting, and pottery, including his innovative kinetic painting projects and commissions like the Monarch Butterfly sculpture at the Monon and pieces for local businesses like an olive oil shop. He also highlights his connections to theater, having created stage props such as the car for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the angel for Angels in America, as well as his involvement in Actors Theater of Indiana’s 4th of July parade floats.

Osborne reflects on his artistic education, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, constructive criticism, and multidisciplinary learning. He discusses his experience running his own studio, managing commissions, and the support he receives from his manager and local arts community. He also talks about his work in broadcasting, hosting two podcasts where he applies his storytelling and production skills.

Throughout the conversation, Osborne offers advice for aspiring artists, encouraging them to explore different media, stay open to new opportunities, and embrace the creative process. He concludes by discussing upcoming projects, including a secondary ceramic studio for teaching classes, and shares how listeners can view or purchase his work.

Part 2

Michael Quinn, former banker turned general contractor and now Chief Development Officer of the Hoosier Art Salon, shared his journey from a career in banking to leading one of Indiana’s oldest art organizations. Passionate about the visual arts, Quinn discussed expanding the Salon’s reach through new gallery spaces, events, and collaborations, including a partnership with the Phoenix Theater. He emphasized supporting artists, both emerging and established, and fostering diversity and community engagement in the arts. With initiatives like artist workshops, an online gallery, and the annual Clues Collaborative exhibition, Quinn aims to increase exposure for Indiana artists and cultivate a strong, inclusive arts community. He also highlighted the personal fulfillment of collecting art and the importance of connecting artists with audiences, while encouraging young artists to pursue their passion and utilize community resources.

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Watch Tom every other Thursday on Lifestyle Live on WISH-TV, and listen every week on the All- Indiana Podcast Network.

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In this in-depth conversation, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra CEO James M. Johnson reflects on the evolution of the orchestra in a digital world — from embracing streaming and social media to expanding access for diverse audiences. He and the host discuss the power of live performance in an AI-driven era, the ISO’s collaborations with the Indianapolis Ballet, and the organization’s deep commitment to inclusion through programs like the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra and partnerships with Sphinx. Johnson also shares personal insights about his own artistic journey, his family’s creative roots, and the orchestra’s bright future as it approaches its centennial in 2030. A rich, inspiring discussion on music, leadership, and the timeless need for human connection through the arts.

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Watch Tom every other Thursday on Lifestyle Live on WISH-TV, and listen every week on the All- Indiana Podcast Network.

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From Broadway to Beef & Boards! Actor Jonathan Cobrda joins the podcast for a lively, heartfelt, and often hilarious conversation about life on stage, the importance of the arts in turbulent times, and finding common ground through laughter. He shares post-pandemic reflections on theater’s healing power, stories from the road (including Annie and Kinky Boots), and why performing in Tootsie feels like a career milestone. Jonathan opens up about failure, fear, and fame — offering inspiring advice for young artists: “Do it scared and fail forward.” Plus, a peek at what’s next as he returns for The Mousetrap at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. A warm, funny, and genuine chat celebrating passion, perseverance, and the magic of live performance.

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Watch Tom every other Thursday on Lifestyle Live on WISH-TV, and listen every week on the All Indiana Podcast Network.

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Speaking from his Brown County home, Reverend Peyton of Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band shared his deep passion for music as a universal language, describing how audiences worldwide, even in countries where English isn’t spoken, connect with American roots music. He reflected on the rich, multicultural origins of American music—from West African vocal traditions and Celtic rhythms to Hawaiian guitar techniques—and how these influences have shaped blues, country, and rock. Peyton traced his own diverse ancestry, from Norman and Viking roots to West African heritage, and sees a connection between his lineage and his musical inclinations. Discussing his creative process, he explained that he writes daily, letting melody guide lyrics and drawing inspiration from life, nature, and travel. While fame brings challenges, Peyton treasures the global friendships forged through his music and advises young artists to create primarily for themselves, trusting that authenticity will find its audience. He also shared details of his upcoming Bloomington performance and noted that his latest album is under consideration for a Grammy, emphasizing that true artistry comes from passion, heritage, and the joy of making music.

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Watch Tom every other Thursday on Lifestyle Live on WISH-TV, and listen every week on the All Indiana Podcast Network.

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Join host Tom Alvarez for an inside look at the fascinating world of Broadway through the eyes of Sam Arce, aka “Broadway Sam,” a passionate theater investor, collector, and longtime fan. From his early days hustling through odd jobs to supporting his children’s education, Sam shares his journey into Broadway, the stories behind his favorite shows, and the incredible people he’s met along the way. Discover how he balances business, art, and philanthropy, and get a front-row seat to his unique perspective on the magic of live performance. Whether you’re a theater lover or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of Broadway, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and unforgettable stories.

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Watch Tom every other Thursday on Lifestyle Live on WISH-TV, and listen every week on the All Indiana Podcast Network.

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