Connecticut-based artist Rick Shaefer, who works out of his studio in Bridgeport, will kick off our show to discuss his role in The Museum of Contemporary Art Connecticut’s summer exhibition, “Looking for History.” His remarkable skill with line as a central element shines through in this exhibit titled "Colossi." It features“Water Crossing” from the "Refugee Trilogy," and “Liberty Dismantled.” His art will be on display through November 15.
Joining us for the second half is Ed Libonati, Executive Director of The Summer Theatre of New Canaan. This theatre has a smash hit with the wildly imaginative "Matilda The Musical." Packed with humor, magic, and circus spectacle, Matilda celebrates courage, creativity, and the power of believing in yourself—a message we can all appreciate. It’s the final weekend, so grab your tickets!
21 Jul 2026
State of the Arts, July 10, 2026
Peggy Nelson and Tom Holehan host this episode, featuring guests Noelle Fair and CJ Nolan, actors in the upcoming production of Othello with the Hudson Shakespeare Company.
Also, Xi Lin visits the show to talk about the Yale Repertory Theatre production of "Rhinoceros." Lin won the Connecticut Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Sound in a Play for her work on that production.
16 May 2026
Moonrise Cartel and Moses Gunn/Norman Marshall Play Company in Studio
In our first segment, Al Pascarelli and Stephanie Harrison of the local folk rock band Moonrise Cartel join Mike and Peggy in studio to talk about upcoming music festivals and their approach to songwriting and harmony. And they play three songs.
In the second segment, Primi Townsend and Marion Gittleman of the Moses Gunn/Norman Marshall Play Company discuss their tribute program for founding member and namesake, Norman Marshall.
12 May 2026
Jacob Padron of Long Wharf Theatre in studio
Mike speaks with Jacob Padron, the Artistic Director of New Haven's Long Wharf Theatre, as he reflects on his tenure at the venerable institution, and considers the future.
20 Feb 2026
State of the Arts 11-28-2025, featuring guests Michael Wilson and Rick Lewis
Mike Boland, hosting solo for this episode, welcomes in two great guests. Michael Wilson, a Drama Desk Award winning theatre director starts off the show talking about his production of A Christmas Carol at Hartford Stage Company. And local musician, songwriter and bandleader Rick Lewis talks about his life on stage.
21 Nov 2025
Talking with Charles Rosenay and Patty Griffin
7 Nov 2025
Talking with Kevin Connors, Suzanne Kachmar and Peter Schelfhaudt
24 Oct 2025
Talking with Bobby and Barbara Moresco, Suzanne Kachmar, Daniel Lanzilotta, Khyal and John O'Grodnik
29 Aug 2025
State Of The Arts August 29, 2025
Hosted by Peggy Nelson and Mike Boland
Guests:
Maureen Hamill
Performer, Producer, Teacher and Artistic Director, Fairfield Theater Company
Patsy Fox
Executive Director, Fairfield Theater Company
fairfieldtheatre.org
Mark Shanahan
Artistic Director at Westport Country Playhouse
www.westportplayhouse.org
29 Aug 2025
State Of The Arts August 22, 2025
Hosted by Peggy Nelson and Mike Boland
Guests:
Jim Lopresti
Musician featured in “Spirit Voices 2 -Connecticut Handpan Concert” at the MAC
jimlopresti.bandcamp.com
earthpassenger.bandcamp.com
milfordarts.org
CYNTHIA LYON
Eight To The Bar celebrates their 50th anniversary at Toad’s Place
eighttothebar.com
www.toadsplace.com
8 Aug 2025
Richard Thomas (American Theatre Hall of Fame, Emmy-award winning actor), Laura Thoma (Playwright)
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