Shows
Steps To The StageBending The Spoon: 3 on the Edge FestivalSend us a textHow often do audiences get to experience a play directed by its own playwright? In this enlightening episode of Steps to the Stage, we take you behind the scenes of "Bending the Spoon," part of Chino Community Theatre's Three on the Edge Festival, where writer-director Ken Lay brings his own creation to life.The play centers on a three-generation family preparing to celebrate a sweet sixteen birthday that unexpectedly resurrects a 20-year-old family tragedy. While the premise might sound heavy, Lay promises plenty of laughter amidst the tears, creating a richly...2025-05-0623 min
Steps To The StageSavage in Limbo: 3 on the Edge FestivalSend us a textRegret, change, and the peculiar state of limbo take center stage in our riveting conversation with the cast and director of "Savage in Limbo," part of Chino Community Theatre's Three on the Edge Festival. This John Patrick Shanley one-act transports audiences to a seedy Bronx bar circa 1984, where five characters who've known each other since grade school find their lives unexpectedly intersecting on a quiet Monday night.Director Michelle Knight-Reinhart and her talented cast—Alex Huey (Denise Savage), Bodhi Aguirre (Tony Aronica), and Rafael Ortega (Merc)—delve into Shanley's distinctive writing styl...2025-05-0221 min
Steps To The StageBreathing Corpses: 3 on the Edge FestivalSend us a textDeath has a way of revealing who we truly are. In this captivating episode of Steps to the Stage, we dive deep into one of the most intriguing productions in the Three on the Edge Festival – "Breathing Corpses" by British playwright Laura Wade.Director Lauren Bell and actors John Nisbet and Amanda Flanagan take us behind the scenes of this darkly comedic play that unfolds in reverse chronological order. Beginning with a hotel maid discovering a dead body, the narrative moves backward through interconnected scenes that reveal how death impacts various ch...2025-04-2920 min
Steps To The StageFeed Me, Seymour: Little Shop of Horrors Comes to 7th StreetSend us a textA 1200-pound puppet in two massive crates. A first-time actor at age 54. A female voice for the traditionally male Audrey II. This is not your average Little Shop of Horrors—and that's precisely what makes it special.The creative team behind 7th Street Community Theater's upcoming production sits down to reveal how they're transforming this beloved cult musical for their intimate stage. Director Juan Luis Torres and his cast—including Derek Ashley-Macumber (Seymour/Costume Designer), Mark Agers (Mushnik), and Adam Carl-Payton (Orin)—share their personal connections to a show that has captiv...2025-04-0228 min
Steps To The StageLetting Creativity Fly: The Making of Schoolhouse Rock LiveSend us a textDiscover the magic of Schoolhouse Rock as our talented team discusses the evocation of childhood nostalgia and the fostering of creativity in youth theater. The episode resonates with stories that intertwine personal experiences with educational foundations in theater.• Introduction to Schoolhouse Rock live • The conceptual backbone of Schoolhouse Rock's storytelling • Collaboration and mentorship in choreography and music direction • The incorporation of educational themes in children's theater • Personal stories connecting the hosts to Schoolhouse Rock • Closing thoughts on the importance of nurturing young talent Weekends March 7th through...2025-03-0224 min
Steps To The StageEmpowering Young Talent in Theater: Ontario High School Drama DepartmentSend us a textThe episode highlights Ontario High School's thriving theater program, focusing on its recent renovations and the upcoming production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The conversation emphasizes the importance of student involvement, community support, and the transformative power of theater in fostering creativity and collaboration among young individuals.• Recent theater renovations enhancing student experiences • Student involvement in selecting and preparing for productions • Challenges and creativity in producing special effects • Reflection on past productions and their impact on growth • Importance of community support for successful theater programs • Goals of fosterin...2025-02-1528 min
Steps To The Stage'Steel Magnolias': Friendship & Resilience in a Southern SalonSend us a textWhat happens when the joys and sorrows of life unfold in a Southern salon filled with laughter and tears? Join us on Steps to the Stage as we welcome director Dona Rice and cast members Stephanie and Jessie, who bring "Steel Magnolias" to life with remarkable warmth and depth. Dona shares a heartfelt synopsis, highlighting the resilience of Southern women against the backdrop of this beloved classic. Stephanie and Jessie, who portray Ouiser and M'Lynn, offer a peek into their characters’ journeys, navigating the complexities of friendship, love, and the ever-evolving mother-daughter bond. To...2025-01-0624 min
Soul SiStoriesFinding Inspiration: Kirk Lane's Journey of Hope and ConnectionSend us a textHave you ever encountered a simple white feather and felt an overwhelming sense of hope wash over you? Join us as we explore how the smallest symbols of hope can guide us through life's challenges. In this episode, we share heartfelt stories and personal journeys that highlight the transformative power of storytelling. Discover how listening and being present can foster a sense of belonging, and learn how seemingly mundane experiences can be infused with love and hope.Our guest, Kirk Lane, offers insightful perspectives on inspiration and the meaning of life...2024-12-1853 min
Steps To The StageIt's a Wonderful Life A Live Radio Play & CCT Season RevealSend us a textWhat if you could bring the charm of a 1940s radio play to the stage, all while presenting the venerable classic, It's A Wonderful Life? On "Steps to the Stage," we explore this intriguing blend with director Chris Diehl and actors Philip Kasinski, Lourie Deards Chase, and Danny Chase as they breathe new life into "It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play." Our guests share how this innovative format allows theater companies to capture the magic of the beloved film without the need for an extensive cast and elaborate settings. Listen in...2024-11-2828 min