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.

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.

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!

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.

In this episode of Curtain Call, we take you behind the scenes of Catskill Public Theater—a bold, mobile theatre company bringing high-quality, pay-what-you-wish performances to unexpected places across the region. Host Tom Candela sits down with Amanda Wallgren, local arts advocate and Associate Producer, and CPT Founder Marshall Shnider, a Juilliard-trained Broadway veteran, to explore how they’re redefining regional theatre with community-driven programming, immersive storytelling, and a mission to make the magic of theatre accessible to all.

On this episode of Curtain Call, we welcome the uniquely talented playwright Bambi Everson—an artist whose work lives at the crossroads of dark comedy, mystery, and the human psyche. Known for her noir-infused tales of murder, deceit, and unexpected humor, Bambi crafts stories where shadows lurk and nothing is quite as it seems. Plus, we'll set the mood with some classic 1940s jazz and Broadway show tunes that echo the smoky, suspenseful world of her plays. It's a journey into the heart of theatrical mystery—and you won't want to miss it.

On this episode of Curtain Call, Tom Candela sits down with author and performer Patrick Bringley, whose deeply personal journey from museum guard to memoirist and now star of his own Off-Broadway show, All the Beauty in the World, offers a moving reflection on grief, healing, and the quiet power of art. Adapted from his New York Times best-selling book, the stage production brings Patrick’s unique perspective to life with subtle humor, authenticity, and warmth. Join us for an intimate conversation about loss, transformation, and finding beauty in unexpected places.

On this episode of Curtain Call, we’re spotlighting the creative team behind the hilarious and heartfelt original comedy TIME’S UP! Plus, we’ll take you on a whirlwind tour of the exciting upcoming theatre seasons across Sullivan, Orange, Rockland, and Wayne Counties.