Curtains up! A Historical Perspective on Drama.

Rohan
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Performing Arts

Step backstage with me on Curtains Up! the podcast that uncovers the rich, dramatic stories behind the evolution of theater. From the divine rituals of ancient Greece to Shakespearean intrigue, and from the glitz of Broadway to the rise of modern experimental theater, Curtains Up! explores how drama has shaped culture and society across centuries. Perfect for theater lovers, history buffs, and anyone curious about the art that mirrors our humanity. Join me for captivating episodes, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights into the world’s greatest stories ever performed.

  1. 4d ago

    E42:Beyond the Stage: Arts Advocacy, Leadership, and Sustainability with Dr. Ursula Kuhar

    Summary Curtains Up host Rohan speaks with Dr. Ursula Kuhar, Senior Lecturer in Arts Administration at Indiana University's Bloomington Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, about community engagement, arts advocacy, and careers in arts administration. Dr. Kuhar explains why engagement must be built on reciprocal community partnerships and how arts organizations can listen, demonstrate their value, and communicate it to different audiences. Keywords arts administration, community engagement, arts advocacy, arts education, nonprofit arts, audience development, creative placemaking Topics Dr. Kuhar distinguishes audience development and marketing from community engagement, which she describes as mission-based programming built on reciprocal partnerships. Effective engagement means listening to community needs, working beyond an organization’s walls, and acting on what people share. Her students use community mapping, environmental scans, and logic models to design collaborative programs with arts organizations. Dr. Kuhar notes that roughly 93% of U.S. arts organizations are nonprofits, and most have operating budgets of $5 million or less. She challenges the “starving artist” stereotype and describes arts administration paths in fundraising, artistic planning, curation, digital marketing, and research. Arts advocacy can combine a moral case for well-being and access with evidence about jobs, education, local economies, and creative placemaking. Arts professionals need to be master storytellers and adapt their message to parents, policymakers, funders, and donors. Dr. Kuhar defines arts administration as “being the bridge between art and audiences” and encourages people with varied skills to enter the field. Chapters 00:00 Why the work beyond the stage matters 01:02 Community engagement is mission-based, not just marketing 04:33 Connecting partnerships back to an organization’s mission 06:14 Moving from “we tell” to “we listen” 11:11 Nonprofit arts organizations and their purpose 15:17 Arts careers, economic impact, and the starving-artist myth 18:11 Why everyone in the arts has a role in advocacy 21:48 Combining moral arguments with data 24:09 Storytelling and speaking to different audiences 26:26 Listening to difficult feedback and adapting 28:10 Arts administration as a bridge between art and audiences 31:52 Staying creative amid uncertainty in the arts

    E42:Beyond the Stage: Arts Advocacy, Leadership, and Sustainability with Dr. Ursula Kuhar

  2. Oct 14

    E41: The Future of Arts Education in Washington with Miranda Leigh Hein

    "Arts are for every kid, not just some" Summary In this episode, Rohan speaks with Miranda Leigh Hein about the importance of arts education, the impact of the Future Ready Initiative, and how students can advocate for arts programs in their schools. They explore the current challenges and opportunities for arts access across Washington State. Keywords arts education, advocacy, Future Ready Initiative, high school graduation requirements, equity in arts, student voice, arts funding, Washington State Key topics The role of arts education in student developmentThe Future Ready Initiative and its effects on graduation requirementsThe importance of arts as a core subject for all studentsThe disparities in arts access across different regions and school sizesHow students can advocate for arts programs and influence policyThe economic impact of the creative economy in Washington StateData collection and the need for arts access metricsStrategies to increase arts participation and reduce equity gapsArts education is vital for fostering creativity, empathy, and connections among students.The Future Ready Initiative proposes to make arts a core part of high school graduation requirements, but faces challenges in implementation.Removing arts requirements risks increasing equity gaps, especially in rural and underserved communities.Student voices are powerful; encouraging participation and advocacy can influence school policies.Data on arts access is outdated; regular collection is essential for informed decision-making.Arts contribute significantly to Washington's economy, representing nearly 10% of the creative economy.Advocacy can be as simple as showing interest, inviting others, and sharing positive experiences. Sound Bites "Arts remains a core part of graduation requirements""Arts are for every kid, not just some""Your voice matters in arts advocacy" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to arts education and advocacy in Washington 00:29 The impact of the Future Ready Initiative on high school graduation requirements 01:20 Miranda Hein's journey from educator to arts advocate 02:17 Challenges faced by teachers and students in arts advocacy 04:32 Overview of the Future Ready Initiative and its goals 06:22Debate over removing arts credits as a graduation requirement 07:27Significance of keeping arts as a core requirement 09:30Data on arts access and disparities across regions 12:11The importance of arts for equity and student engagement 13:36Rural and small schools' challenges in offering arts programs 17:16How students can advocate for arts programs20:50The power of student voice in arts advocacy 21:08One thing to change in arts education in five years 22:32The need for regular arts data collection in Washington 23:54The arts as a vital part of the economy and community 25:59Opportunities for students to explore careers in the arts

    E41: The Future of Arts Education in Washington with Miranda Leigh Hein

  3. Sep 7

    E40: Arts, Advocacy, and Public Policy: A Conversation with Manny Cawaling, Executive Director, Inspire Washington

    "Advocacy is really about telling a story." - Manny Cawaling Summary In this episode, Manny Cawaling shares his journey from artist to arts advocate, highlighting the importance of arts in community development, education, and policy. We explore the challenges faced by arts organizations and the critical need for public support and funding. keywords arts advocacy, community development, arts education, policy, funding, Washington state, arts organizations, cultural programs key topics Manny Cawaling's journey from artist to arts advocate The role of arts in community development and education Challenges faced by arts organizations in Washington The impact of public support and funding on arts programs The significance of arts in fostering empathy and social cohesion The threat of policy changes like the Future Ready program Advocacy strategies for arts supporters The economic and social benefits of cultural programs Sound bites "Arts enrich education and bring communities together." "Funding cuts and policy changes threaten arts access." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Manny Cawaling and his background 00:29 Manny's transition from artist to advocate 01:15 Challenges in running arts organizations and policy advocacy 03:18 The 2016 cultural tax campaign and advocacy efforts 05:14 The importance of storytelling in advocacy work 07:14 The impact of arts and cultural programs across Washington 12:06 Major challenges facing arts organizations today 15:16 The threat of the Future Ready program and arts credits in schools 19:01 Advocacy efforts and public support for arts funding 21:10 Closing remarks and call to action for arts supporters

    E40: Arts, Advocacy, and Public Policy: A Conversation with Manny Cawaling, Executive Director, Inspire Washington

  4. Aug 28

    E39: Theater, Community, and the Power of the Arts: A Conversation with Josh LaBelle, CEO STG

    "The community in Seattle for theater is amazing." - Josh LaBelle Summary In this episode, Rohan speaks with Josh LaBelle, Executive Director of Seattle Theatre Group, about the importance of preserving historic theaters, the role of arts education, and the challenges faced by nonprofit arts organizations. They discuss the significance of community in the arts, the current state of the industry, and the need for advocacy to ensure accessibility and support for future generations. Josh shares insights from his journey in arts leadership and emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in programming. Takeaways Josh LaBelle transitioned from musician to arts administration. Seattle's arts community operates more like a community than an industry. The arts are evolving and not dying, with increasing attendance. Arts education is crucial for developing empathy and connections. Economic barriers limit access to the arts for many individuals. Advocacy is essential to protect arts education in schools. Seattle Theatre Group aims to be the people's theater. Diversity in programming is key to reaching broader audiences. Nonprofit organizations face unique challenges in presenting arts. Art can provoke thought and discomfort, which is valuable for growth. Sound Bites "I wish we could take the economic barriers out." "Arts education is essential for society's health." "It's about supporting those diverse stories." Chapters 00:14 Introduction to Seattle Theatre Group and Its Mission 01:46 Josh LaBelle's Journey to Arts Leadership 04:41 The Importance of Community in the Arts 06:56 The Current State of the Arts Industry 10:11 Arts Education and Its Challenges 13:12 Advocacy for Arts Education 15:11 The Role of Arts in Society 16:57 Ensuring Accessibility in the Performing Arts 20:13 Challenges Faced by Nonprofit Arts Organizations 23:54 Navigating Controversial Art 27:43 Removing Economic Barriers to the Arts

    E39: Theater, Community, and the Power of the Arts: A Conversation with Josh LaBelle, CEO STG

  5. Aug 1

    E38: Inside Shakespeare Scholarship: The First Folio and Literary Detective Work with Dr. Eric Rasmussen

    "Shakespeare's words still inspire today"summary Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Shakespeare scholarship with Dr. Eric Rasmussen, a renowned expert who has dedicated his career to studying, authenticating, and preserving Shakespeare's works. Discover the detective work behind rare book discoveries, the importance of the First Folio, and how Shakespeare's themes remain relevant today. keywords Shakespeare, First Folio, literary preservation, rare books, Shakespeare scholarship, literary history, drama, cultural heritage key topics The role of the First Folio in preserving Shakespeare's plays The detective work involved in authenticating rare Shakespeare books The impact of Shakespeare's language on modern English How Shakespeare's themes remain relevant today The process of editing and revising Shakespeare's plays The Hidden World of Shakespeare's First Folio How Shakespeare's Plays Survived and Thrived sound bites "Shakespeare engages with issues we care about" "He engages with gender and power dynamics" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Rasmussen and Shakespeare scholarship 01:22 A day in the life of a Shakespeare scholar 06:44 The significance of the First Folio in literary history 12:00 Discovery of the Saint Omer First Folio 15:09 Authenticating Shakespearean books through watermarks and paper analysis 18:09 Determining Shakespeare's original words amidst conflicting editions 23:26 Shakespeare's engagement with modern issues like gender and power 26:31 Themes in Shakespeare's plays that remain relevant today 28:03 Closing remarks and the importance of cultural preservation resources Shakespeare First Folio Catalog - https://shakespeare.folger.edu/explore/shakespeares-works/shakespeares-first-folio/ Eric Rasmussen - University of Nevada, Reno - https://www.unr.edu/english/faculty/eric-rasmussen Guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-rasmussen University of Nevada, Reno - https://www.unr.edu/english/faculty/eric-rasmussen

    E38: Inside Shakespeare Scholarship: The First Folio and Literary Detective Work with Dr. Eric Rasmussen

  6. Jul 30

    E37:All the World’s a Stage: The Legacy of Shakespeare

    Summary Explore the enduring legacy of William Shakespeare, his influence on language, storytelling, and human psychology, and why his works remain relevant over 400 years later. keywords Shakespeare, Renaissance England, theater, language, storytelling, human psychology, Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, cultural legacy key topics Shakespeare's influence on language and culture The complexity of Shakespeare's characters Themes of ambition, love, and identity in his plays The evolution of theater during the Renaissance Shakespeare's relevance in modern storytelling takeaways Shakespeare's characters feel human because of their complex flaws and strengths. Many common expressions like 'break the ice' originate from Shakespeare. His plays explore universal themes like ambition, love, and revenge. Shakespeare's influence extends beyond language to storytelling and character development. His works are continually reinterpreted to reflect modern concerns. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shakespeare's Cultural Impact 00:27 Shakespeare's Memorable Characters and Themes 00:57 The Enduring Relevance of Shakespeare's Language 01:01 Shakespeare's Influence on Modern Storytelling 01:29 Deep Dive into Hamlet: Indecision and Justice 01:57 Macbeth and the Dangers of Ambition 02:26 Romeo and Juliet: The Tragedy of Youthful Love resources William Shakespeare - [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shakespeare) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shakespeare Shakespeare's Plays - [Folger Shakespeare Library](https://www.folger.edu/explore/shakespeares-works/) - https://www.folger.edu/explore/shakespeares-works/ Shakespeare's Language - [No Sweat Shakespeare](https://nosweatshakespeare.com/) - https://nosweatshakespeare.com/

    E37:All the World’s a Stage: The Legacy of Shakespeare

  7. Jul 10

    E36: Why the Arts Matter: Building Stronger Communities Through Creativity

    "Arts are our social infrastructure, keeping communities vibrant." - Karen Hanan summary In this episode, Rohan interviews Karen Hanan, a leader in arts advocacy, about the vital role of arts in community health, economic development, and education. They explore how arts initiatives can foster community well-being, support military and senior populations, and address misconceptions about arts funding. keywords arts advocacy, community development, arts education, economic impact, mental health, military, senior citizens, arts funding, Washington State key topics Arts as a vital part of community health and well-being Economic impact of the creative sector in Washington State Arts programs for military and senior populations The importance of arts education for future skills Challenges and misconceptions about arts funding sound bites "Arts feed every element of community connection." "Joy from the arts improves overall health and well-being." Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Arts in Community Health 03:01 Arts as a Catalyst for Community Connection 05:56 The Economic Impact of the Arts 08:49 Bridging the Gap: Arts Education and Community Engagement 12:11 The Disconnect: Arts Funding and Public Perception 14:52 Advocating for the Arts: A Call to Action 17:50 The Future of Arts in Education and Community 21:13 Final Thoughts: The Arts as a Birthright resources Washington State Arts Commission - https://www.arts.wa.gov/ WAM - Wellness, Arts and the Military program - https://www.arts.wa.gov/programs/wam/ Silverkite - Creative Aging Program - https://silverkite.org/ World Health Organization - Arts and Health - https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/arts-and-health Johns Hopkins - Arts and Health Research - https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/arts-and-health LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-hanan Twitter - https://twitter.com/KarenHanan

    E36: Why the Arts Matter: Building Stronger Communities Through Creativity

  8. Jun 26

    E35: Theater as Civic Infrastructure: Why Communities Need the Arts with Michael Greer, President & CEO, ArtsFund, Seattle

    Sound bites "Arts foster empathy and understanding across communities." "Investing in arts yields outsized effects on community health." - Michael GreerSummary In this episode, Rohan interviews Michael Greer, CEO of Arts Fund, about the vital role of arts in community development, economic impact, and public health. They explore how increased investment and exposure to arts can transform societies and why arts are often undervalued despite clear benefits. Learn more at https://www.curtains-up.org Keywords arts funding, community development, public health, arts impact, arts education, arts advocacy, Washington State, cultural heritage, arts investment, social cohesion Key topics Arts funding and economic impactArts and community healthThe importance of arts educationData and perceptions around arts investmentArts as a tool for empathy and social cohesionTakeaways Arts funding in Washington is 57% below the national average despite high impact.Engagement with arts correlates with higher voter participation and lower inequality.Investing in arts yields high social returns and supports community resilience.Arts education should be integrated early to foster empathy and creativity.Connecting arts to public health can unlock new funding opportunities.Chapters 00:00 The Power of the Arts Beyond Entertainment 01:09 Understanding Arts Fund's Mission and Challenges 06:21 The Economic Impact of Arts Funding 11:17 The Importance of Arts Education in Schools 16:30 Arts as a Catalyst for Community Health 21:59 Empathy and Connection Through the Arts 25:09 Arts as Civic and Cultural Infrastructure 29:02 Connecting Arts to Public Health Funding Resources Arts Fund - Washington State - https://artsfund.org/ Livability Impact Study of the Arts 2025 - https://artsfund.org/research Nonprofit Finance Fund - https://nff.org/ Michael Greer LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-greer/

    E35: Theater as Civic Infrastructure: Why Communities Need the Arts with Michael Greer, President & CEO, ArtsFund, Seattle
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About

Step backstage with me on Curtains Up! the podcast that uncovers the rich, dramatic stories behind the evolution of theater. From the divine rituals of ancient Greece to Shakespearean intrigue, and from the glitz of Broadway to the rise of modern experimental theater, Curtains Up! explores how drama has shaped culture and society across centuries. Perfect for theater lovers, history buffs, and anyone curious about the art that mirrors our humanity. Join me for captivating episodes, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights into the world’s greatest stories ever performed.

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