From Video Production to Center Stage: The Inspiring Journey of Jacob Butler

On this episode of On the Aisle with Tom Alvarez, actor, singer, videographer, and editor Jacob Butler shares his remarkable path from a shy, anxious teenager in Northern Kentucky to one of Central Indiana's most respected musical theater performers.

Jacob reflects on the profound impact of losing his father at age 17, how storytelling through film helped him navigate grief, and why a spontaneous audition for Into the Woods at Ball State University changed the course of his life. Despite having no formal theater training, his powerful voice, dedication to learning, and passion for storytelling led to standout performances in productions such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Titanic, Kinky Boots, Phantom, and many others.

The conversation explores:

• How grief and personal challenges shaped Jacob's artistic journey
• The transition from video production to professional theater
• The importance of mentorship and lifelong learning
• Why collaboration is essential in both theater and filmmaking
• The balance between humility, self-promotion, and building a career in the arts
• The unique culture of Indianapolis theater and the family atmosphere at Beef & Boards and Actors Theatre of Indiana
• Why live theater remains irreplaceable in an age of AI and digital entertainment

Jacob also shares advice for young artists: take risks, trust your instincts, find supportive people, and keep moving forward—even when the path ahead isn't clear.

Whether you're a theater lover, aspiring performer, filmmaker, or someone navigating life's unexpected turns, Jacob's story is a powerful reminder that growth often begins when we step outside our comfort zone.

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In this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with Indianapolis theater veteran Jill O’Malia for a warm, reflective conversation about her life on stage, her deep ties to the Indiana Repertory Theatre, and her journey through roles like Velma in Hairspray at the Tarkington. They talk about how Indy’s theater scene has evolved, the impact of venues like the Palladium and Center for the Performing Arts, and how strong arts journalism and advocacy helped shape both Jill’s career and Tom’s work as a reviewer. Jill shares candid memories of auditions, sold‑out productions, and the friendships and networks that sustain working actors, while Tom connects those stories to the broader growth of central Indiana’s arts community.

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In this episode of On The Aisle, Tom Alvarez talks with Kenny Shepard and Carol Worcel about their hit “ESC Burlesque” show in Carmel—a modern, Vegas-style take on burlesque featuring trained musical theater performers. The show blends comedy, music, and dance while celebrating confidence and artistry across all ages.

They also share stories from their careers in theater, choreography, and directing, and reflect on their strong creative partnership built on trust and collaboration. The conversation highlights the growth of Indiana’s arts scene and encourages aspiring performers to build sustainable careers doing what they love—wherever they are.

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In this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez speaks with Mexican Consul, Leticia Maki Teramoto Sakamoto about immigration, identity, and community. Sakamoto discusses the Mexican Consulate’s work supporting immigrants through legal, protection, and documentation services, while also addressing the fear many undocumented families currently face. Alvarez reflects on reconnecting with his Mexican heritage and highlights how Latino culture enriches Indianapolis through the arts, traditions, and community events. Together, they emphasize compassion, cultural understanding, and the importance of supporting immigrant communities.

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On this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with acclaimed composer, lyricist, and playwright Adam Gwon for an in-depth conversation about his Off-Broadway musical All the World’s a Stage and its upcoming cast album. Gwon shares how the show grew out of his reflections during the pandemic and explores themes of identity, mentorship, and the power of art to represent marginalized voices. The two discuss Gwon’s creative journey from Baltimore to NYU and beyond, his early love of piano and theater, his experiences working with Roundabout Theatre Company, and the influence of artists like Audra McDonald. Blending personal stories, humor, and thoughtful commentary on the state of musical theater today, the interview offers an intimate look at one of contemporary theater’s most heartfelt voices.

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In this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with Yoshiko Kamikusa for an intimate conversation about the global journey that led her to the Indianapolis Ballet. Born in Tokyo and raised in Hawaii, Yoshiko traces her path through elite training in Vancouver, competing in international ballet competitions, and launching her professional career with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet before arriving in Indianapolis. Along the way, she opens up about the discipline and sacrifices behind a ballet career, the realities of company life and competition, dancing through the challenges of COVID, and the artistry required to make the impossible look effortless on stage. Yoshiko also shares a deeply personal chapter honoring her late father by opening a family Japanese restaurant. Making this conversation a heartfelt look at perseverance, passion, and building a life both on and off the stage.

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In this episode of “On the Aisle,” host Tom Alvarez Zooms in with Polish‑American Broadway music director and pianist Eugene Gwozdz, tracing his journey from a musical immigrant family in Fort Worth, Texas, to becoming a go‑to collaborator for stars like Betty Buckley, Chita Rivera, Ariana DeBose, and more.

Eugene shares wild behind‑the‑scenes stories about helping Buckley learn “Memory,” sight‑reading early workshops of In the Heights, building tribute concerts at Casa Mañana, and shaping new musicals from a Dolly Parton show to a Spanish‑flu piece he composed while waiting in the hospital for a heart transplant.

With dishy name‑drops, emotional “pinch me” moments, and a powerful message about following your dreams no matter what, this conversation is a masterclass in resilience, artistry, and the unexpected paths a life in music can take.

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On this episode of “On the Aisle,” host Tom Alvarez sits down with community leader and musician Shelly Snider, who shares her journey from growing up as a United Methodist preacher’s kid in Indianapolis to becoming a powerhouse in Indiana’s LGBTQ+ community through Indy Pride, the Pride of Indy Bands, and now the Damien Center.

She talks about juggling corporate life, nonprofit work, and family, the joy and healing power of music, and how a scrappy idea on a pizza-napkin became a 60+ member queer band that has marched in presidential inaugurations and is headed to the Tournament of Roses Parade.

Shelly opens up about surviving professional setbacks, honoring queer history and the AIDS crisis, raising her son with her wife, and why she believes risk-taking, collaboration, and radical hope are essential for the next generation. If you care about arts, activism, or what it really means to build community in the Midwest, this conversation is packed with heart, history, and inspiration.

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