Light in the City

The Enlightened Experience  We are just days away from Enlightened Studios theater production Grass Roots. Going on at the Artsville Theater in Cincinnati, Ohio from February 27th through March 8th tickets are still available and we suggest you getting tickets online where you can save some money. Justin provides us a sneak peak at this upcoming production as the first showing I coming this Friday...

Let's catch up on what is new with Enlightened Studios this week. Justin provides updates on the latest news and events with Enlightened Studios and Cincinnati. We are just 12 days before the first of eight performances between February 27th through March 8th at the Artsville Theater in Cincinnati, Ohio. You can now listen to our advertisement on the WGRI radio station. Be sure to let us know when...

Here’s your full updated episode description with everything combined — including the Grass Roots ticket link and the Women of Beecher Place Open Mic event: Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the sound of Cincinnati — the voices, rhythms, stories, and creative energy that shaped this city into a cultural force. From influential Black artists and music legacies to local stages, commun...

What is new with Enlightened Studios? Well, we are here to get you all caught up. Justin provides the latest news, events, and update around Enlightened Studios and Cincinnati. Grass Roots can be found on WGRI as we are excited for the radio station to be promoting our upcoming production. We also take a look at what is going on around the Cincinnati Public Library's as we head into this Valentine...

Celebrate Cincinnati’s rich arts and theater scene in this special episode of Light In The City, presented by Enlightened Studios and hosted by Brittany L. Brown. In honor of Black History Month, we highlight Black creativity, iconic artists like Denzel Washington, and why Cincinnati continues to matter in the arts. We take a deep dive into the local theater community, reflect on the power of stor...

Summary In this episode, Justin Trento discusses the exciting events planned for February at Enlighten Studios, including 'Painting Pastries' and the production of 'Grassroots.' He reflects on his recent illness and the importance of faith during tough times. The conversation also highlights the significance of Black History Month, emphasizing the need for ongoing reflection and celebration of Afr...

In this special interview episode, we sit down with Terry L. Chappell II, writer and director of the powerful new stage play Grass Roots, alongside Nikelle Chappell, executive producer and co-founder of Enlightened Studios. Together, we dive into the inspiration behind Grass Roots, the creative process of bringing the story to life, and the deeper message the play explores around community, legacy...

Summary We get to hear from cast members getting to know their character as we get closer to Grass Roots production. Justin shares his fasting experience and his discovery of the true meaning behind fast and prayer. We leave you with a bible script of the week to think of when faith becomes a distance.  Takeaways Bible Script of the week Paint & Pastries Event Grass Roots Promotion Meet the Ca...

What really happens behind the curtain in Cincinnati theaters? In this episode, we go deep backstage to explore the world most audiences never see: tech week, stage managers, pre-show rituals, costume secrets, and the tiny traditions that make every performance magical. You’ll also hear perspectives from local volunteers, actors, and designers, giving you a front-row seat to the heart of Cincinnat...

Summary: We honor Martin Luther King Jr. and his impact as the leader of the Civil Rights Movement. We share the mark it left on Cincinnati's performing arts industry and share how it has touched others including Terry himself.  Upcoming tickets are avialable for February's events (Paint & Pastries and Grass Roots).  Takeways: Martin Luther King Jr. Rememberance What Martin Luther King Jr mean...

Some of the most powerful performances don’t happen on traditional stages. In this episode, we explore Cincinnati’s most unexpected performance spaces — from libraries and parks to community rooms and converted venues — and why these everyday places have become some of the most meaningful stages in the city. This conversation is about access, creativity, and the way art shows up where people alrea...

Summary The conversation covers the introduction to the Grassroots production, the significance of fasting and prayer, updates on production rehearsals, changes in production dates and ticket information, and the introduction of cast members. The cast is described as remarkable, and there is a focus on spiritual disciplines, production logistics, and the excitement of the cast members. Takeaways -...

Summary The first episode of the Enlightened Studios podcast introduces the expansion into podcasting and upcoming events and productions. The episode covers highlights, theater productions, plans for 2026, faith and inspiration, and upcoming events at public libraries. It also includes personal background and concludes with a call to action for the audience to engage with the studio's content on...

Cincinnati’s arts scene runs deeper than most people realize. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the rich theater history, creative culture, and community-driven arts that make Cincinnati a true performance city. From historic stages and legendary venues to free, family-friendly arts experiences happening right now, this episode celebrates how accessible and alive the arts are in our cit...