Shows
The Scene RoomHarry Hyman — Founder of The International Opera Awards: “The Toscas, Not the Oscars”Send us a textEver wondered what drives the International Opera Awards? British entrepreneur Harry Hyman takes us behind the curtain of the Awards, revealing how a passion project has transformed into a pivotal force in the opera world.The awards serve a triumvirate of purposes - distributing roughly $100,000 annually in bursaries to emerging talents, celebrating excellence across all facets of opera production, and perhaps most crucially, dismantling the elitist stereotypes that keep potential audiences away. "People from a younger generation might be put off by the notion that opera is only for...
2025-07-0224 min
The Scene RoomRuth Hartt — Flipping the Script on Arts MarketingSend us a textThe arts sector has seen a steady decline in audience attendance over the past four decades. Yet many organizations continue relying on traditional marketing strategies that speak primarily to insiders—those already familiar with their art forms—rather than reaching new, curious audiences.Ruth Hartt is challenging this paradigm with a forward-thinking, audience-first approach to arts marketing. With a unique background as both a professional opera singer and a business innovation expert, she introduces Harvard Business School professor Clayton Christensen’s influential “jobs to be done” framework—a groundbrea...
2025-06-0528 min
The Scene RoomMatthew Loden — Inside the Shepherd School: Vision, Values, and PurposeSend us a textWhat makes a great music institution? Is it world-class facilities, exceptional faculty, or something more intangible? Matthew Loden, Dean of the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, brings perspective from both sides of the music world—as a former professional violinist and as a seasoned arts administrator who's led major organizations including the Philadelphia and Toronto Symphony Orchestras.Loden's journey reveals what originally sparked his passion for arts leadership. "I found that I could enjoy the creative aspects of building something in the same kind of way I enjoy sitting in...
2025-05-2932 min
The Scene RoomBarry Shiffman — Chamber Music and the Pulse of CommunitySend us a textBarry Shiffman challenges the doom-and-gloom narrative surrounding classical music by spotlighting the remarkable growth of chamber music across North America. Drawing from his roles as Executive Director of the Banff International String Quartet Competition, and Associate Dean and Director of Chamber Music at the Glenn Gould School and Dean of the Taylor Performance Academy for Young Artists at Toronto’s Royal Conservatory of Music, and Artistic Director of Classical Music & Rockport Chamber Music Festival, Shiffman shares stories of thriving festivals, purpose-built venues, and passionate audiences redefining the art form’s future.From...
2025-05-2232 min
The Scene RoomJennifer Rowley — The Approachable Diva: Strategy, Strength, and CommunitySend us a textWhen Jennifer Rowley steps onto the stage, audiences witness the culmination of meticulous preparation, physical discipline, and an authentic artistic presence that extends far beyond the footlights. But what happens behind the scenes? How does a world-class soprano navigate today's complex performing arts landscape?Jennifer's approach to her craft breaks conventional boundaries. Rather than maintaining an untouchable "diva" image, she's built vibrant communities across social platforms where she personally engages with every comment and message. "I like being the approachable diva," she explains, revealing how this digital connection translates to meaningful...
2025-05-0145 min
The Scene RoomBen Dietschi — The AI Revolution in Arts AdministrationSend us a textThe transformative potential of artificial intelligence in arts management takes center stage in this forward-thinking conversation with Ben Dietschi, Senior Consultant at the DeVos Institute of Arts and Nonprofit Management. Drawing from his extensive experience as the former Executive Director of SoundStreams and his current project developing AI training programs for arts administrators and organizations, Dietschi offers a compelling vision of how cultural organizations can adapt to an increasingly digital landscape.The discussion opens with Dietschi's personal journey into arts administration, sparked by a profound moment during a high school band...
2025-04-2425 min
The Scene RoomChristian Van Horn — Voice, Power, AuthenticitySend us a textChristian Van Horn joins us for a refreshingly candid conversation about the evolving opera landscape and the challenges emerging artists face today. The renowned bass-baritone, currently performing at Paris Opera (as Philippe II in Verdi's Don Carlos), shares how traditional career trajectories have dramatically lengthened, with young artists often remaining in training programs well into their late thirties – a stark contrast to his own path."We are the media now," he asserts, explaining how his successful podcast (CVH Podcast) unexpectedly transformed not just his connection with audiences but his entire approach to...
2025-04-1729 min
Ally Jane: The Podcast ShowSurprise 4 RubyEpisode 9: "Surprise 4 Ruby" Ally Jane is throwing a Surprise Party for Ruby at her house, with the help of her friends Anastasia Solace, Punzel Ella, Penny Hu, Athena Barlow, Abby Abeth and Katherine. Will Ally tidy up her house in time? Written by: Jarrett Blandin and Nicholas Fiermonte and Calton McJenersen and Phoebe Grace Wallace Directed by: Jarrett Blandin and Calton McJenersen and Phoebe Grace Wallace Created by: Jarrett Blandin and Nicholas Fiermonte and Molly Markowitz and Gillian Marsi and Vivian Benishek Produced by: Jarrett Blandin and Nicholas Fiermonte and Calton McJenersen and Phoebe...
2025-04-1603 min
The Scene RoomDavid Lomelí — Tenor to Innovator: Shaping Opera’s New EraSend us a textWhen David Lomelí's blossoming career as a tenor was cut short by severe health issues, he didn't leave opera—he transformed how it works from behind the scenes. This conversation takes us through his remarkable journey from a naturally gifted singer in Mexico to becoming one of opera's most influential casting directors and artistic leaders.Lomelí brings remarkable candor to his discussion of opera's business realities. Having seen the industry from both sides of the curtain, he reveals how financial pressures increasingly drive artistic decisions, with programming often shaped more by d...
2025-04-1045 min
The Scene RoomMichael Morreale — The Power of Consistency in Digital Strategy for Artists and OrganizationsSend us a textThe digital landscape has transformed how artists connect with audiences, but what strategies actually work in today's crowded online space? Michael Morreale, digital content producer and arts consultant with experience spanning brands like CBC, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and beyond, offers a refreshingly practical approach to arts marketing."Our job isn't to pitch stories to media outlets anymore. Our job is to tell our own story," Michael explains, cutting through the noise to what really matters. Drawing from his experience creating content that reached 16 million Canadians during Canada's sesquicentennial celebration, he shares...
2025-04-0331 min
The Scene RoomAubrey Bergauer — Running Your Arts Organization Like a BusinessSend us a textImagine doubling your audience size and quadrupling your donor base in today's challenging arts landscape. That's exactly what Aubrey Bergauer accomplished at the California Symphony by applying business principles to arts administration — and now she's sharing her playbook with us. Her bestselling book, Run It Like a Business, packs all these insights into one powerful guide!Aubrey's journey into arts administration began at the age of 16 when she realized there were careers beyond performance in the orchestra world. Twenty years later, she's revolutionizing how arts organizations approach audience development through data-driven st...
2025-03-2731 min
Ally Jane: The Podcast ShowComedy & Living LifeEpisode 8: "Comedy & Living Life" Ally Jane hosts a game night for her friends at her house. Director Woody Steven and Makeup Lady Sally are back on set with Bailey Winter and Actor Billy at Dollywood. Written by: Jarrett Blandin and Nicholas Fiermonte and Calton McJenersen and Phoebe Grace Wallace Directed by: Jarrett Blandin and Calton McJenersen and Phoebe Grace Wallace Created by: Jarrett Blandin and Nicholas Fiermonte and Molly Markowitz and Gillian Marsi and Vivian Benishek Produced by: Jarrett Blandin and Nicholas Fiermonte and Calton McJenersen and Phoebe Grace Wallace Casting by: Jarrett...
2025-03-2604 min
The Scene RoomCate Pisaroni — Reimagining How We Connect Artists with AudiencesSend us a textWhat happens when arts marketers get caught in a loop of generic language like "spellbinding performances" and "timeless classics"? Cate Pisaroni, founder of Lenny's Studio and representative for artists like Joyce DiDonato, Ailyn Pérez, Christian Van Horn, Quinn Kelsey, Stephen Costello, Evan Rogister and many more offers a refreshingly honest take on where arts marketing falls short – and how we can take it to the next level.Cate brings a wealth of experience to this conversation, sharing how meaningful content emerges when marketers step outside of their silos and immerse the...
2025-03-2032 min
The Scene RoomAlex Sarian — Relevance and Leadership in the ArtsSend us a textJoin us as we sit down with Alex Sarian, bestselling author of The Audacity of Relevance and President and CEO of Calgary's Arts Commons. Sarian’s innovative approach to cultural leadership has not only transformed Calgary’s Arts Commons but also unlocked over $500 million in funding, reshaping cultural leadership across Canada. This marks the largest cultural infrastructure project in Canadian history.In this episode, Sarian shares how he leads Arts Commons with a focus on community engagement and a service-oriented leadership model...
2025-03-1328 min
The Scene RoomAlexander Brose — Unlocking Potential: The Power of Music EducationSend us a textWith over 25 years of experience, Alexander Brose shares his unique leadership journey. He highlights the invaluable year spent shadowing his predecessor, Peter Simon. This opportunity gave him rare insights and a wealth of institutional knowledge, laying the foundation to lead the Royal Conservatory of Music through its next phase of growth.We dive into the rich history of The Royal Conservatory of Music and its crucial role in promoting music education across Canada and beyond. As public school music programs face budget cuts, Brose emphasizes the importance of expanding access to...
2025-03-0624 min
The Scene RoomMichael Dobbin — Bridging Cinema and StreamingSend us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Michael Dobbin, founding director of Quiet Revolution Pictures (Canada) and Peardrop Productions (UK), and founder of JustWatchMe.TV, a platform dedicated to elevating independent films. Michael shares insights on how the platform supports filmmakers by providing visibility and helping them navigate production financing—especially in the often-overlooked realm of Canadian cinema.We also explore live screening capabilities, where audiences can host their own community-driven viewings, encouraging deeper engagement with stories that resonate. As...
2025-02-2720 min
The Scene RoomPatricia Price — Strategic Success in Classical Music PRSend us a textJoin us for a conversation with the co-founder of 8VA Music Consultancy, Patricia Price. She shares her journey to becoming an industry leader in classical music marketing and PR. We also explore the evolving role of digital media in arts PR, the balance between traditional and digital platforms. Patricia shares insights on building a compelling artistic narrative and how blending business skills with creativity leads to long-term success.Additionally, She highlights her work with artists like Sandbox Percussion, Andy Akiho, and Graeme Steele Johnson, emphasizing the power of thoughtful c...
2025-02-2026 min
The Scene RoomChris Lorway — Arts, Empowerment, and Community ConnectionSend us a text Chris Lorway, the visionary President and CEO of Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, is in The Scene Room this week. He discusses his leadership approach—empowering teams, fostering trust, and building a culture of collaboration and excellence with a shared vision and core values.Chris shares his commitment to nurturing local talent, his interest in Banff Centre’s role and commitment to Indigenous Reconciliation, and his passion for multidisciplinary programming. He also reflects on the transformative experiences available at the Centre and why this position ultimately drew him back to Canad...
2025-02-1322 min
The Scene RoomBen Hoffman — Emotional Resonance in Arts Marketing StrategySend us a textUnlock the secrets of captivating new audiences with Ben Hoffman, CEO of Square Productions. He is a change force in classical music marketing. Discover how his innovative strategies are revolutionizing the way symphony orchestras connect with younger, unfamiliar audiences by breaking free from the constraints of traditional imagery and embracing modern advertising techniques. We explore the vital transition from the iconic maestro with a baton to visuals and narratives that resonate with today's diverse audience base.Join us as we delve into the vibrant world...
2025-02-0624 min
The Scene RoomJoel Ivany — Bridging Tradition and Innovation in OperaSend us a textIn this episode, Elizabeth Bowman sits down with Joel Ivany, the visionary Artistic Director of Edmonton Opera and Director of Opera at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. Joel shares his passion for community outreach and engagement, focusing on how opera can continue to resonate with new audiences.They explore the evolving landscape of audience retention, emphasizing how surveys and feedback can help transform casual attendees into lifelong opera enthusiasts. Could Augmented Reality play a role in making opera more accessible? Joel...
2025-01-2925 min
The Scene RoomDefying Convention — Sarah Slean on Music, Inclusivity, and the Creative ProcessSend us a textSarah Slean, a 4-time JUNO and 2-time GEMINI-nominated performer, composer, poet, and modern renaissance woman, joins host Elizabeth Bowman in The Scene Room to share her inspiring artistic journey. From early piano lessons to arranging her own string compositions, Sarah's story is one of resilience, boundless creativity, and defying convention.In this episode, Sarah opens up about resisting the commercialization of art, championing inclusivity, and advocating for music as a universal language accessible to everyone—regardless of social or financial barriers.Listeners will he...
2025-01-2244 min
Let's Drink About ItEp 94: Plenty of Oomph with Nick FountainHeaven Is A Place/This Is The Place (Lost Lake, Chicago)2 oz London Dry gin1 oz fresh lime juice.5 oz dry curaçao (McGee uses Pierre Ferrand)
.5 oz velvet falernum
.5 oz honey syrup.25 oz St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram3 dashes Angostura bitters
mint, pineapple leaf, luxardo cherry, edible flower for garnish
Shake ingredients with 1 cup of crushed ice. Strain into a mug and top with more crushed ice. Garnish.
Southern Exposure (Alembic, San Francisco).75 oz celery juice1.5 oz gin (Junipero or St. George recommended).5 oz simple syrup (1:1).5 oz lime juiceHandful mint leaves and sprig for garnish
Finely grate a celery rib and squeeze...
2016-01-1400 min