Beyond the Stage is Pablo Center’s podcast where entertainment, creativity, and community come together. Go behind the scenes with the artists you love, the staff who make the magic happen, and the local voices shaping our cultural landscape. From live performances and creative careers to nonprofit impact and arts education, Beyond the Stage explores how Pablo Center brings people together—on stage, off stage, and throughout the Chippewa Valley.
Get ready for breathtaking landscapes, incredible adventures, and stories that inspire! Host Kathy Wright sits down with Geoff Roznak, President of the Chippewa Valley Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society, to talk about the Banff Mountain Film Festival coming to Pablo Center this December.
They explore what makes this internationally recognized film festival so special, the stories and outdoor adventures audiences can expect to see on the big screen, and how the event brings together outdoor enthusiasts and film lovers throughout the Chippewa Valley.
Whether you're passionate about the outdoors or simply love a great story, this episode offers a sneak peek at an unforgettable film experience coming to downtown Eau Claire.
22 Oct 2026
Behind the Booking: How Shows Make It to Pablo Center
Ever wonder what it takes to bring your favorite performers to the Pablo Center stage? There's a lot more to booking a show than simply picking an artist and finding an open date.
Pablo Center's Director of Marketing Amanda Anderson joins host Kathy Wright for a behind-the-scenes look at how entertainment decisions are made. From artist availability and production costs to the unique needs of touring performers, they explore the many factors that go into building a diverse lineup.
They also discuss how the live entertainment industry is changing, why more big-name performers are choosing smaller venues, and how the growing popularity of live comedy is creating exciting opportunities for Pablo Center and audiences throughout the Chippewa Valley.
22 Oct 2026
Answering the Community's Questions with Jerry Kuehl
As Pablo Center enters its ninth season, we're taking a closer look at its role in the Chippewa Valley and what's ahead. Host Kathy Wright welcomes local businessperson and frequent Pablo attendee Jerry Kuehl for a conversation about the questions community members are asking.
From balancing national touring acts with local talent to changing audience interests and surprising ticket sales, they explore what goes into programming a performing arts center. They also discuss Pablo Center's impact on the region, its role in supporting local artists, and what it takes to attract performers in an increasingly competitive entertainment market.
Whether you're a regular attendee or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this episode offers a fresh perspective on Pablo Center and its future.
22 Oct 2026
On the Rise: Unveiling Season 9 at Pablo Center
Season 9 at Pablo Center is officially here, and there's a lot to get excited about! Ashley Scallon joins host Kathy Wright to take a closer look at the newly announced lineup and what audiences can expect from another exciting season of live entertainment in downtown Eau Claire.
From Broadway favorites and big-name performers to comedy, concerts, family entertainment, and more, they highlight the shows coming to Pablo Center, share some of the excitement behind the lineup, and discuss what makes this season special.
Whether you're a longtime Pablo attendee or looking for your next great night out, this episode is your inside look at what's On the Rise for Season 9!
8 Jul 2026
The Perfect Space for Every Occasion
In this episode of Beyond the Stage, Megan takes listeners on a tour of the Pablo Center's versatile event spaces and shares how they can be transformed for everything from weddings and corporate meetings to fundraisers, celebrations, and private parties. Learn what makes each space unique, discover the services available to help bring your vision to life, and hear why the Pablo Center is more than a performing arts venue—it's a place where unforgettable moments happen.
8 Jul 2026
True Crime Takes the Stage
In this episode of Beyond the Stage, we sit down with bestselling true crime author and criminologist Scott Bonn for a fascinating conversation about the minds behind some of history's most infamous serial killers. Scott shares what draws society to true crime, separates fact from fiction, and explores the psychology that fuels these notorious criminals. From media myths to real-life investigations, this engaging discussion offers a deeper look into one of the world's most captivating and unsettling subjects.
2 Apr 2026
Step Out and Into Eau Claire’s Live Scene
Live music doesn’t really exist without the people in the room. In this episode, Kathy Wright sits down with two passionate fans of the live experience, Michael Strubel and Nick White, to talk about what keeps them coming back show after show.
Michael shares the story behind his “Year 50” challenge, attending fifty live performances across the region to mark his 50th birthday, and the moments and artists that made it unforgettable. Nick dives into the energy of local house shows and the unique spaces where live music thrives, including experiences like the 715 Series.
Together, they reflect on what makes live music feel so personal, so powerful, and why the audience is just as essential as the artists on stage.
19 Mar 2026
Eau Claire Jazz Festival 2026
Get ready to feel the rhythm return to downtown Eau Claire. In this episode, Quentin Volk joins us to preview the 2026 Eau Claire Jazz Festival, happening April 17–18.
From intimate sets to high-energy performances, Jazz Fest fills the city with sound in all the right ways. Quentin shares a behind-the-scenes look at what’s in store this year, reflects on favorite moments from festivals past, and talks about what makes this event such a standout on the spring calendar. It’s a celebration of music, community, and a festival that continues to grow year after year.
19 Mar 2026
Fabulous Florals & Fine Art 2026
Spring arrives a little early at the Pablo Center. Before gardens begin to bloom across the Chippewa Valley, the galleries come to life with color, texture, and fresh inspiration during Fabulous Florals.
In this episode, Erika Crotty joins us to share a behind-the-scenes look at this beloved annual exhibit, on view March 26–29. Blending live floral design with works of fine art, Fabulous Florals transforms the gallery into a living, breathing experience. Erika talks about what goes into creating the exhibit, the collaboration between artists and florists, and why it continues to be a favorite for both staff and visitors year after year.
19 Mar 2026
Eau Claire Children's Theatre
In this episode, Kathy Wright sits down with Andrew Salvaterra, Board President of the Eau Claire Children’s Theatre, for a conversation about the power of youth arts in our community. Now in its 37th season, ECCT has grown into a vibrant organization producing nearly 20 shows each year, creating space for young performers to build confidence, creativity, and connection.
Andrew shares the story behind ECCT’s growth, the impact of arts education on young people, and the many ways kids—and adults—can get involved, both on stage and behind the scenes. He also highlights how families and community members can play a role in supporting the next generation of artists right here in the Chippewa Valley.
14 Feb 2026
New Music, New Chapter: Chris Kroeze Live
He may be known nationwide, but he’ll always belong to Western Wisconsin. This February, Chris Kroeze returns to The Pablo to debut brand-new music and an all-new live show.
Chris joins Kathy Wright to talk about the February 21 premiere, what longtime fans will notice right away, and which new song is his personal favorite. He shares insight into his songwriting process, reveals a surprising admission about his time on The Voice, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the unique space where he recorded his latest project.
Plus, we discuss his continued dedication to veterans and first responders—and why that mission remains at the heart of everything he does.
16 Jan 2026
The Power of Perception & Black Violin
In October, Pablo Center welcomed BLACK VIOLIN, a genre-blending duo of classically trained Black musicians redefining what string music can be. Their performance opened the door to conversations about representation, creativity, and the possibilities available to African American and biracial youth.
Dennis Beale, founder of Power of Perception, joins Kathy Wright to discuss how experiences like this show, along with other cultural opportunities, can positively impact young people and strengthen the minority community throughout the Chippewa Valley.
16 Jan 2026
Jarius Miquel Cliett in The Book of Mormon
The Book of Mormon, winner of nine Tony Awards and one of the longest running Broadway shows in history, returned to Pablo Center in early November. Kathy Wright sits down with Jarius Miquel Cliett, who brings the role of Mafala Hatimbi to life, for a behind-the-scenes conversation about performing in a Broadway production. Jarius shares what it is like to take the stage night after night, the journey that led him there, and the joy of connecting with audiences along the way.
A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Jarius holds degrees in Vocal Performance from both the University of Alabama and Georgia State University. He also discusses his previous credits and the path that ultimately led him to The Book of Mormon.
16 Jan 2026
When Dreams Come True
It always feels like a win for the entire community when one of our own heads out into the world and finds success. Anthony Laguardia joins the podcast to share his journey from Memorial High School to Broadway and beyond, now calling Nashville home.
A native of Eau Claire, Anthony is the Dance Director, Tour Manager, and a featured performer with the Ranch Hands show. When not on tour, the production holds a residency in Nashville. Anthony shares insight into the show, his career path, and how growing up in Eau Claire shaped the artist he is today.
Ranch Hands is a fully scripted variety show packed with comedy, singing, dancing, and yes, shirtless cowboys. Designed to deliver 90 minutes of pure fun, this 21+ show has built a loyal following across a wide range of audiences.
16 Jan 2026
The Confluence of Art Annual
The creative magic at Pablo Center doesn’t stop at the stage. It lives on the walls, too. Gallery Manager Erika Crotty joins the conversation alongside Teva Dekel of the Confluence of Art Annual to explore the exhibit and the larger gallery program throughout the building. Erika shares how exhibits are curated, how works are selected, and how the collection rotates, while Teva brings his own perspective shaped by a background in fashion and jewelry design and a deep, enduring passion for the arts.
16 Jan 2026
The Vibrancy of the Area's Literary Arts
One of Eau Claire’s true storytellers, BJ Hollars joins the podcast for a conversation spotlighting the Chippewa Valley’s vibrant writing community. A prolific author and the Director of the Chippewa Valley Writers Guild, BJ has shaped countless stories on the page and beyond. He’s also a creative force behind the award-winning documentary Rubber Hit the Road and the upcoming Kings of Kubb—bringing regional voices and Midwest stories to a wider stage.
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