On this episode of Curtain Call, host Tom Candela sits down with Suzann Dvorken, President of the Delaware Valley Opera, to celebrate their 2021 milestone—the company’s acquisition of its very own permanent home: the Delaware Valley Opera Center in Lake Huntington, NY. Together, they explore the company’s 35-year journey, its future plans for year-round performances, and what this new space means for the region’s cultural landscape. The episode also features lively interviews with cast and audience members at a recent performance of Knightly News, a whimsical, one-act children’s opera by Jonathan Stinson that blends fairy tale favorites with newsroom flair and operatic fun.
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Forestburgh Playhouse
On this episode of Curtain Call, we’re heading to the Sullivan Catskills for a deep dive into one of the region’s most beloved theatrical treasures—the Forestburgh Playhouse. From high-flying farces and Pulitzer-winning musicals to raucous cabarets and new works nestled in the woods, this episode shines a spotlight on the Playhouse’s dynamic 2025 season. Join us as we explore the shows, the people, and the passion behind this nearly 80-year-old summer theatre tradition. And stick around for some great musical moments, including a heartwarming finale from Shrek the Musical that’ll leave you believing that yes—someday is today.
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54:55
Up In Arms
On this episode of Curtain Call, we shine a spotlight on Up In Arms, the Hudson Valley–based puppet company dedicated to creating original musical theatre for young audiences. Artistic Director Dov Manley and writer/educator Alex Ishkanian share how their colorful, character-driven shows—like Monster Intelligence, Helping Drew, and Tortoise & Hare’s Race to Health—combine heartfelt storytelling with meaningful educational themes. From promoting kindness to encouraging curiosity and confidence, their touring productions are inspiring families and students across the country.And in our Roving Thespian segment, we travel to Farm Arts Collective for a performance of The Road to Damascus, an original solo work written and performed by Kathy Randels. Set against a backdrop of myth, memory, and justice inequity, Randels’ piece weaves together biblical narrative, environmental urgency, and personal reflection in a powerful multidisciplinary performance that calls on us all to reimagine our journey forward.
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Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop
On this episode of Curtain Call, we shine the spotlight on the Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop (SCDW) and its longtime Board Member Harold Tighe together with Pete Nastasi (director/actor/playwright). They are committed to creating inclusive, community-driven theatre and are nothing short of inspiring. From beloved musicals to original plays and youth-led productions, SCDW's work onstage is matched by its innovative offstage programs—especially its growing audience participation initiative that brings theatre lovers directly into the creative process. Plus, we debut a brand-new segment featuring our “roving host” out in the field, capturing voices and stories from the local arts scene. This week: a trip to the Bingo Bash with some familiar faces from the Catskill Public Theatre!
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Farm Arts Collective
On this episode of Curtain Call, host Tom Candela digs into the fertile ground where theatre, farming, and community meet with Tannis Kowalchuk and Jess Beveridge of Farm Arts Collective. Broadcasting from their home base on Willow Wisp Organic Farm in Damascus, PA, these multi-talented “perfarmers” share how they cultivate original, socially relevant performances that blend science, sustainability, and storytelling. From their upcoming immersive piece Lucy Joseph to community-centered events like Dream on the Farm series, this episode explores how creative placemaking can transform both landscapes and lives. Plus, enjoy Broadway tunes that echo the episode’s themes of growth, imagination, and bold new beginnings.
Take your seat for Curtain Call —the podcast where local theatre meets the professional stage! Each week, host Tom Candela brings you engaging, in-depth interviews with the artists, directors, and creators shaping our local community theatres, alongside special guests from New York City and beyond. From hometown stages to Broadway lights, we uncover the stories, struggles, and triumphs behind the curtain. Between the conversations, enjoy handpicked Broadway show tunes that bring the magic of musical theatre straight to your ears.
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