Front Row, Backstage

Part two of our chat with Aral Gribble delves further into his dual career as both an accomplished actor and an educator in the performing arts. We explore the motivations that led him to embrace teaching alongside his performance career, revealing the profound impact it has had on his journey. Gribble shares anecdotes from his early teaching experiences, highlighting the challenges and triumphs e...

Aral Gribble, a distinguished actor and teaching artist with over 25 years of experience, joins us to illuminate the intricacies of the performing arts. We delve into his extensive background, including his time at the University of Michigan and his diverse roles in esteemed theaters. His passion for storytelling is palpable, and he shares insights from his journey, from stage to screen. Related P...

This podcast episode features the esteemed independent gospel artist Jonathan Crutcher alongside his wife, Blair Crutcher. They delve into Jonathan's profound journey in gospel music, beginning at an early age and the pivotal influences that shaped his artistry. The conversation highlights the emotional process behind his song "Pour Out," inspired by personal loss, and emphasizes the ministry work...

In this episode, we dive into the compelling journey of DJ Ganja Girl, an emerging force in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene. She shares her unique experiences and the challenges faced as a woman in a predominantly male industry. We explore her creative process, influences, and the significance of community support, particularly through initiatives like Femtronica, which aims to empower fema...

Cloverbeard and Crew, a dynamic trio from central Michigan, blend traditional Irish melodies with contemporary music, captivating audiences at Renaissance fairs and pubs alike. In this episode, we delve into the origins of their unique stage names and the stories that shape their performances. The band members share their experiences engaging with audiences, highlighting moments of connection and...

This episode features an enlightening discussion with Steve Simonson, an audio engineer and educator whose extensive career traverses multiple facets of the audio production realm. At the outset, we delve into Steve's formative years as a drummer, which laid the groundwork for his profound understanding of sound and music technology. Currently, a sound instructor a sound engineer instructor at Lan...

In this episode, Greg connects with three remarkable cast members of "Puffs", Olivia Challa, Jonathan Riley, and Caleb Tracy. They share their unique experiences and challenges in bringing their respective roles to life. Olivia, as the narrator, reflects on the complexities of guiding the audience through the narrative, while Jonathan discusses the evolution of his character, Oliver Rivers, from a...

Part 2 of the FRB "Puffs" series features an insightful discussion with two exceptionally talented performers, Kenneth Wilson and Jacob Maurer, who shed light on the intricacies of portraying multifaceted characters within the play. They share their experiences navigating the challenges of rapid character transitions and the physical demands of their roles, all while maintaining a comedic essence....

This episode delves into the enchanting and humorous universe of "Puffs," a play presented by Lansing Community College Performing Arts that takes place within a magical academic setting. We chat with three talented cast members: Liam, who embodies the charming Cedric Diggory; Shane, who portrays the whimsical Jay Finch; and Josh, who astoundingly takes on three distinct roles, including the Sorti...

Greg invites LCC Connect General Manager, Daedalian Lowry onto this episode of Front Row, Backstage to discuss the profound influence and significance of local radio in nurturing community identity and culture. With over twenty years of broadcasting experience, Daedalian has reflects on how technology has changed the landscape of radio and the challenges faced by local radio amidst the encroachmen...

This episode features an in-depth dialogue with Matt, the lead singer of the band Plethora, a Michigan band known for their electrifying performances that seamlessly blend various musical genres. We delve into the origins of Plethora's unique concert experience, characterized by its comedic rock style and crowd engagement, which has garnered a dedicated following. The discussion illuminates the ba...

Caleb Eubanks, a self-taught multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, has made remarkable strides in the music industry over a mere five years. His distinctive blend of folk, rock, and indie genres results in a sound that is both raw and deeply personal, often drawing inspiration from his family life and everyday experiences. In this episode, we delve into Caleb's artistic journey, exploring how he t...

Today, we delve into the captivating realm of "Crime and Punishment," a psychological drama set to premiere at Lansing Community College. The production, inspired by Dostoevsky's esteemed novel, invites a nuanced exploration of morality, guilt, and redemption through the eyes of its complex characters. I'm joined by Director, Andy Callis and three remarkably talented actors, each of whom brings th...

This podcast episode delves into the life and artistry of Cruz Villarreal, a poet whose evocative works resonate deeply with themes of social justice and personal experience. Cruz's journey into poetry commenced at the age of nine, and he has since transformed his life experiences into profound literary expressions that explore the complexities of the human condition. Throughout our conversation,...

The Druid Drummer, a singular musical entity hailing from Kalamazoo, Michigan, captivates audiences with his innovative and primal soundscapes that transcend conventional music. In this episode, we delve into the artistry and inspiration behind his unique performances, which serve as both a powerful form of self-expression and a conduit for audience connection to their inner rhythms. The Druid Dru...

Greg Trimmer hosts a dynamic discussion with LCC theater students Shane Curtis and Liam Hamilton, who share their experiences and insights from their journey in the theater program. The episode highlights their recent roles, including Shane's lead performance in "Cosplay" and Liam's experience as an understudy for Percy in "Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief." Both actors reflect on their inspi...