Jersey Arts Podcast

ArtPride New Jersey
  • 4.6 (7)
  • PERFORMING ARTS
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The Jersey Arts Podcast presents in-depth, one-on-one conversations with the liveliest and most intriguing personalities in New Jersey’s arts scene. From the casts of hit shows to critically acclaimed film producers; from world-renowned poets to classically trained musicians; from groundbreaking dance visionaries to cutting-edge fine artists, our podcast connects you to what’s happening in your local arts community.

  1. George Lopez on Comedy, Culture, and Representation

    FEB 5

    George Lopez on Comedy, Culture, and Representation

    Today we’re speaking with comedian George Lopez about the ins and outs of fame, the current sociopolitical climate, and how these things inform his life and his comedy. You may know Lopez from his standup specials like 2025’s “Muy Catolico,” “We’ll Do it For Half,” and “The Wall: Live from DC.” Maybe from his 2002 sitcom “The George Lopez Show” or the more recent “Lopez vs. Lopez” in which he starred with his daughter Mayan. Perhaps his talk show “Lopez Tonight,” which made him the first Mexican-American to host a late-night talk show on English-language television, or one of his many feature film appearances. Heck, maybe you know him as an author. He has had his hand in so many different artistic avenues that it is hard not to be impressed. As a Chicano performer in an industry that still underutilizes Latino talent, he has become somewhat of an icon, with a career to aspire to. Stay tuned to get to know a side of George Lopez you may not have seen yet. Then make sure to grab your tickets for his appearance at NJPAC this February! Thanks for listening! Subscribe to The Jersey Arts Podcast in your favorite podcast player. The Jersey Arts Podcast is one medium of Feature Stories on Discover Jersey Arts (jerseyarts.com), where articles and videos also cover New Jersey’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Discover Jersey Arts is presented by ArtPride New Jersey. The program was co-founded by, and is currently supported by funds from, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Additional support for JerseyArts.com content is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Subscribe to the Discover Jersey Arts' weekly e-newsletter to have stories delivered to your inbox. Follow and contact us @jerseyarts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

    19 min
  2. Pioneer Productions Company Presents 'What the Constitution Means to Me'

    JAN 29

    Pioneer Productions Company Presents 'What the Constitution Means to Me'

    If you’re an avid news viewer, you’ve probably heard discussions of the U.S. Constitution bandied about as of late. Is it being violated? Are we upholding it? Does anyone really know what’s in it? Well, if you’re not sure what’s in it but you’re intrigued and would like to learn through a fun and engaging night at the theater, Pioneer Productions Company invites you to their production of “What the Constitution Means to Me.” And if you do know what’s in it and enjoy lively debate, you’re still going to want to see this show! But what is it really about? The autobiographical two-time Tony-nominated play and Pulitzer finalist was written and first performed by Heidi Schreck. The synopsis reads: Fifteen-year-old Heidi earned her college tuition by winning Constitutional debate competitions across the United States. In this hilarious, hopeful, and achingly human play, she resurrects her teenage self in order to trace the profound relationship between four generations of women and the founding document that shaped their lives. Miriam Salerno will tackle the role of Heidi alongside Benjamin Weisman as the Legionnaire under the direction of Pioneer Artistic Director Daniel Vissers. Ashlee Vissers will appear as the Debater. Not only is this an engaging play, but this production is bookended by excitement, beginning with a pre-show USO performance by Jade Delos Santos and ending with a live debate where it is up to the audience to proclaim the winner! Thanks for listening! Subscribe to The Jersey Arts Podcast in your favorite podcast player. The Jersey Arts Podcast is one medium of Feature Stories on Discover Jersey Arts (jerseyarts.com), where articles and videos also cover New Jersey’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Discover Jersey Arts is presented by ArtPride New Jersey. The program was co-founded by, and is currently supported by funds from, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Additional support for JerseyArts.com content is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Subscribe to the Discover Jersey Arts' weekly e-newsletter to have stories delivered to your inbox. Follow and contact us @jerseyarts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

    29 min
  3. Roomful of Blues Welcomes First Female Vocalist in Over Fifty Years

    JAN 8

    Roomful of Blues Welcomes First Female Vocalist in Over Fifty Years

    Today, we are highlighting the five-time Grammy Award-nominated band, Roomful of Blues. First formed in 1967, the group touts an impressive tenure approaching almost sixty years in the industry. While some new faces have come and gone in that tenure, the eight-piece blues band is still going strong- most recently welcoming their first female singer, D.D. Bastos, to the octet. Together, the group has released their latest album “Steppin’ Out” featuring the group’s signature blues, jump, swing and soul sound including timeless gems first cut by Etta James, Big Mama Thornton, Jimmy McCracklin, Tiny Bradshaw and more. Today I was honored to speak with lead guitarist and Roomful producer, Chris Vachon, and lead vocalist, D.D. Bastos, about their latest album, their journey into the band, and their love of the blues. Stay tuned to hear a special musical sneak peek as well. Thanks for listening! Subscribe to The Jersey Arts Podcast in your favorite podcast player. The Jersey Arts Podcast is one medium of Feature Stories on Discover Jersey Arts (jerseyarts.com), where articles and videos also cover New Jersey’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Discover Jersey Arts is presented by ArtPride New Jersey. The program was co-founded by, and is currently supported by funds from, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Additional support for JerseyArts.com content is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Subscribe to the Discover Jersey Arts' weekly e-newsletter to have stories delivered to your inbox. Follow and contact us @jerseyarts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

    30 min
  4. 'Christmas Carolmania' Ends Their World Premiere Tour at the Count Basie Center this Christmas

    12/22/2025

    'Christmas Carolmania' Ends Their World Premiere Tour at the Count Basie Center this Christmas

    Today we are talking about a new musical concert experience celebrating the holiday spirit like never before! This holiday season, Koolist Entertainment is proud to launch a world premiere tour from the creators of Koolulam – The Mass Global Singing Sensation that swept the hearts of millions to sing together worldwide. Producers Kathi and Alan Glist of Glist Entertainment are on the podcast today to explain what makes this show so unique and moving. Married for 53 years, the duo make ideal partners both in entertainment and in life. They began their theatrical producing career with “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Oliver,” “The King & I” and “The Rothschilds” following that with their Off-Broadway sensation “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.” The multiple Tony Award winners are also responsible for having discovered the off-Broadway sensation, "Menopause the Musical," which has since run for over nineteen years in Las Vegas and is now the longest running musical in Vegas history! Their company, Glist Entertainment, has donated over one million dollars to Women’s Charities and most recently have raised and donated $75,000 to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Stay tuned to learn more about the new sensation that is "Christmas Carolmania!" Thanks for listening! Subscribe to The Jersey Arts Podcast in your favorite podcast player. The Jersey Arts Podcast is one medium of Feature Stories on Discover Jersey Arts (jerseyarts.com), where articles and videos also cover New Jersey’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Discover Jersey Arts is presented by ArtPride New Jersey. The program was co-founded by, and is currently supported by funds from, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Additional support for JerseyArts.com content is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Subscribe to the Discover Jersey Arts' weekly e-newsletter to have stories delivered to your inbox. Follow and contact us @jerseyarts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

    31 min
  5. Spreading Joy (For All to Hear) with Surflight's Production of 'Elf, the Musical'

    12/11/2025

    Spreading Joy (For All to Hear) with Surflight's Production of 'Elf, the Musical'

    “It’s just nice to meet another human who shares my affinity for elf culture.” While that may be a quote from the movie, "Elf", it’s also the truth. Gina is a huge fan of the movie and elf culture! While she's yet to see its musical counterpart, she was thrilled to have the chance to speak with Buddy himself, actor Dustin Ceithamer who is portraying the lead in the "Elf, the Musical" at Surflight Theatre in Beach Haven this December. Directed and choreographed by Paula Hammons Sloan, the show is a fun holiday romp for the whole family and an exciting adaptation of a holiday classic. Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin are responsible for the musical score and the book was adapted by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan. On today’s episode, Gina and Dustin chat about all things Elf, of course, and his experiences in both theater and film, including his tenure as a member of the Star Wars empire.  What it’s like to be one of the coolest people in the galaxy? Thanks for listening! Subscribe to The Jersey Arts Podcast in your favorite podcast player. The Jersey Arts Podcast is one medium of Feature Stories on Discover Jersey Arts (jerseyarts.com), where articles and videos also cover New Jersey’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Discover Jersey Arts is presented by ArtPride New Jersey. The program was co-founded by, and is currently supported by funds from, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Additional support for JerseyArts.com content is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Subscribe to the Discover Jersey Arts' weekly e-newsletter to have stories delivered to your inbox. Follow and contact us @jerseyarts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

    22 min
  6. 'Ben Schwartz and Friends' Tour Stops at NJPAC for First Ever Performance in New Jersey!

    11/20/2025

    'Ben Schwartz and Friends' Tour Stops at NJPAC for First Ever Performance in New Jersey!

    Today's episode is all about Ben Schwartz, improv, and his first ever performance in New Jersey. You may know him as Jean Ralphio in “Parks and Rec,” Yasper in “The After Party,” Josh Bath in “The Earliest Show,” (which is coming back soon!) Clyde in “House of Lies” or maybe as the voice of Sonic the Hedgehog. That barely grazes the surface. His portfolio is long and varied. With roots in improv, he is an alumnus of the Upright Citizens Brigade, and known for his quick wit and high energy. For the first time ever, he is bringing his improvisational show “Ben Schwartz & Friends” to the NJPAC this November. Stay tuned to hear our host Gina's "super chill" chat with Ben Schwartz. Thanks for listening! Subscribe to The Jersey Arts Podcast in your favorite podcast player. The Jersey Arts Podcast is one medium of Feature Stories on Discover Jersey Arts (jerseyarts.com), where articles and videos also cover New Jersey’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Discover Jersey Arts is presented by ArtPride New Jersey. The program was co-founded by, and is currently supported by funds from, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Additional support for JerseyArts.com content is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Subscribe to the Discover Jersey Arts' weekly e-newsletter to have stories delivered to your inbox. Follow and contact us @jerseyarts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

    32 min
  7. Theater Meets Mixed Martial Arts for Hamilton's Okieriete Onaodowan in World Premiere Play

    11/06/2025

    Theater Meets Mixed Martial Arts for Hamilton's Okieriete Onaodowan in World Premiere Play

    If you’re a fan of Hamilton, he needs no introduction. Okieriete Onaodowan – also known as Oak to friends and fans – originated the roles of Hercules Mulligan and James Madison in the mega-hit musical. He also played Dean Miller on the TV show Station 19 and leads the new series Demascus–now streaming on Tubi–which the LA Times called a “must-watch”. Born and raised in New Jersey, Oak is back in the Garden State at Two River Theater in Red Bank working on a play called The Monsters–a world premiere and co-production with Manhattan Theatre Club. Thanks for listening! Subscribe to The Jersey Arts Podcast in your favorite podcast player. The Jersey Arts Podcast is one medium of Feature Stories on Discover Jersey Arts (jerseyarts.com), where articles and videos also cover New Jersey’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Discover Jersey Arts is presented by ArtPride New Jersey. The program was co-founded by, and is currently supported by funds from, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Additional support for JerseyArts.com content is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Subscribe to the Discover Jersey Arts' weekly e-newsletter to have stories delivered to your inbox. Follow and contact us @jerseyarts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

    27 min
  8. Shakespeare Theatre’s Frankenstein Reveals the Story Behind the Story

    10/16/2025

    Shakespeare Theatre’s Frankenstein Reveals the Story Behind the Story

    The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Frankenweenie, Poor Things… the story of Frankenstein has been adapted many times over and continues to find new relevance with each interpretation. Playwright David Catlin’s version, called Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, does double duty by presenting a story within a story. The show depicts both the tale of Frankenstein as well as the famous spooky storytelling competition that inspired it–giving audiences a look into the making of Victor Frankenstein's creature and the making of the novel itself. Thanks for listening! Subscribe to The Jersey Arts Podcast in your favorite podcast player. The Jersey Arts Podcast is one medium of Feature Stories on Discover Jersey Arts (jerseyarts.com), where articles and videos also cover New Jersey’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Discover Jersey Arts is presented by ArtPride New Jersey. The program was co-founded by, and is currently supported by funds from, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Additional support for JerseyArts.com content is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Subscribe to the Discover Jersey Arts' weekly e-newsletter to have stories delivered to your inbox. Follow and contact us @jerseyarts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

    24 min
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4.6
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

The Jersey Arts Podcast presents in-depth, one-on-one conversations with the liveliest and most intriguing personalities in New Jersey’s arts scene. From the casts of hit shows to critically acclaimed film producers; from world-renowned poets to classically trained musicians; from groundbreaking dance visionaries to cutting-edge fine artists, our podcast connects you to what’s happening in your local arts community.

Information

  • Creator
    ArtPride New Jersey
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    272
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 ArtPride New Jersey
  • Show Website
    Jersey Arts Podcast