Shows
Best Show Ever78. Craig OwsleyThanks for tuning in to Best Show Ever, a podcast presented by The Englert Theatre. Welcome to the season 4 finale episode. We knew we’d have to make this one extra special so we asked one of our own, one of our very best, Craig Owsley, to join us this week. Craig is not only the box office lead for the Englert, he’s also been doing security and admissions for venues across Iowa City for almost 30 years.
Check out Craig's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/PROJECT33VIDEO
The episode features music by Da...
2022-06-1722 min
Best Show Ever77. Blake ShawOn this week’s episode we talk to beloved Iowa City musician Blake Shaw. More specifically, chat with Blake about the art of practice… when to practice, how to practice, why to practice, etc. Hang around for some free advice from self-taught legend, Mr. Shaw.
The episode features music by Dan Padley and Wave Cage.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in Iowa City, Iowa, and is supported by Friends of the Englert and Fellowship for the Future memb...
2022-06-1022 min
Best Show Ever76. Ebenezer AdeyemiOn this week’s episode we talk to Ebenezer Adeyemi, a doctoral student at the University of Iowa studying global health disparities. We hear a bit about Ebenezer’s research, which revolves around how marginalized communities advocate for themselves and innovate in the face of adversity.
Thanks to Lensing Funeral Home for sponsoring this episode.
The episode features music by Dan Padley and Wave Cage.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in Iowa City, Iowa, and is s...
2022-05-2028 min
Best Show Ever75. Anne RussettOn this week’s episode we talk all things urban planning with the City of Iowa City’s Senior Planner, Anne Russett. More specifically, we discuss her recent work rezoning residential areas in the South District of Iowa City to provide more affordable housing options.
Thanks to Lensing Funeral Home for sponsoring this episode.
The episode features music by Dan Padley and Wave Cage.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in Iowa City, Iowa, and is supp...
2022-05-1730 min
Best Show Ever74. Makayla Bryant & Josh BoothIn this week's episode we’re talking with Liberty High School students and burgeoning rap artists: Makayla Bryant and Josh Booth. We’ll hear a bit about how they got into MC’ing, what their creative process looks like, and the hopes they have for the future.
The episode features music by Dan Padley and Wave Cage.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in Iowa City, Iowa, and is supported by Friends of the Englert and Fellowship for the Fu...
2022-04-2218 min
Best Show Ever73. Ella OstedgaardOn this week’s episode we talk sustainable farming with Ella Ostedgaard, an artist and employee at Wild Woods Farm. Together we touch on what growing organically entails, what that work does for our community, and what it gives back to the farmers physically and spiritually.
Thanks to Lensing Funeral Home for sponsoring this episode.
The episode features music by Dan Padley and Wave Cage.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in Iowa City, Iowa, and is...
2022-03-1836 min
Best Show Ever72. Dolly SperryOn this week’s episode we talk to Iowa City DIY maven, Dolly Sperry. Together we’ll muse on the current state of Iowa City’s local music scene as well as hopes for the future of our community. This episode does contain explicit language and may not be appropriate for some audiences.
The episode features music by Dan Padley and Wave Cage.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in Iowa City, Iowa, and is supported by Friends of the...
2022-03-0441 min
Best Show Ever71. Alta MedeaContent Warning: this episode contains conversations about domestic violence.
On this week’s episode we hear from Alta Medea, Director of Community Engagement at the Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP). Together we discuss the nuances of intervention and the role that art plays therin.
The episode features music by Dan Padley and Wave Cage.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in Iowa City, Iowa, and is supported by Friends of the Englert and Fellowship for the Fut...
2022-02-1834 min
Best Show Ever70. Brooke TarvinOn this week’s episode we hear from Brooke Tarvin, mastermind behind the plus-sized sustainable clothing brand, Thick And Thrifted. Together we discuss the intersections of fashion, queerness, and community all through an Iowa City lens.
The episode features music by Dan Padley and Wave Cage.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in Iowa City, Iowa, and is supported by Friends of the Englert and Fellowship for the Future members. Visit www.englert.org/friends to support our pr...
2022-02-0419 min
Best Show Ever69. Christine Burke & John GrierOn this week’s episode we hear from Iowa City-based experimental composer, Christine Burke. We also talk to Iowa City fire chief, John Grier, about his storied career as a first responder and his Best Show Ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “47” by Teri Underhill for our Song of the Week.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwest and its peer United States Regional Arts Organizations made possib...
2021-12-1733 minBest Show Ever68. Lisa Roberts & Jim TrepkaOn this week’s episode we’re getting lit for literature with founder of Iowa City Poetry, Lisa Roberts. We’ll also hear from Jim Trepka, professor of electronic engineering at Kirkwood Community College.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Your Other One” by Sophie Mitchell for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwe...
2021-12-1335 minBest Show Ever67. Trevon Coleman & Danielle Pettit-MajewskiOn this week’s episode we hear from the cinematographer behind the Black Liberation Space film, Trevon Coleman. We also talk to Danielle Pettit-Majewski, director of Johnson County Public Health. She talks a bit about surviving the pandemic, public health in a politicized world and, of course, share her Best Show Ever experience.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Anymore” by Joey O’Kelly for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Kim Shillig, Realtor for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, th...
2021-12-0340 minBest Show Ever66. The Arts & YouFor this special holiday episode we’re bringing back our fabulous development director, Katie Roche, to talk about The Arts and You, a new community-wide survey that will be made public in December 2021. The survey is a component of the arts access initiative that’s been created under the Strengthen Grow Evolve campaign. Katie’s also gonna fill us in on the new Englert membership initiative, Fellowship for the Future.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Bang Bang” by TheOnlyIon for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponso...
2021-11-2634 minBest Show Ever65. Alicia Velasquez & Bambi SuitsOn this week’s episode we hear from the artisan jewelry maker, Alicia Velasquez, the woman behind the House of Dotł'izhi. We also talk with local American Sign Language interpreter, Bambi Suits, about her advocacy, career, and Best Show(s) ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Anyway” by TV Cop for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidWestOne for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1...
2021-11-1939 minBest Show Ever64. Mélisse Brunet & Felix AnamanOn this week’s episode we chat with Mélisse Brunet, the University of Iowa’s first ever female orchestral conductor. We also get a look at local entrepreneur Felix Anaman’s impressive career journey from Ghanan model to Iowa City businessman.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Hurt Me” by DavionJ for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase...
2021-11-1233 minBest Show Ever63. LaTasha DeLoachFor this special edition episode of Best Show Ever, we’re sharing our full interview LaTasha DeLoach: activist, advocate, artist, and mother. LaTasha DeLoach currently serves as the Senior Center Coordinator for the City of Iowa City and spent nearly ten years with Johnson County Social Services.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “I Can’t Bike” by Pictoria Vark for our Song of the Week.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initi...
2021-11-0550 minBest Show Ever62. Amanda Rae Kane & Kaveh MostafaviOn this week’s episode we talk with Amanda Kane, a master of cosmetics and scene stylings. We also hear from Kaveh Mostafavi, founder and CEO of Ecocare Supply. He tells us the origin story of his Earth-friendly enterprise and his favorite local band!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Red Maple” by Jarrett Purdy & Dan Padley for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United...
2021-10-2930 minBest Show Ever61. Ramin Roshandel & Minnetta GardinierOn this week’s episode we talk with Ramin Roshandel, multi-disciplinary artist with an affinity for musical composition. We also hear from Minnetta Gardinier, an Iowa City resident and airplane pilot.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “We Own the Summer” by Nora Yates for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Kim Shillig, Realtor for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwes...
2021-10-2236 minBest Show Ever60. Sarahann Kolder & Dede DancingIn this week’s episode we’ll hear from Sarahann Kolder, a multi-disciplinary artist and current fellow with Public Space One’s Center for Afrofuturist studies and Media Arts Co-op. We also chat with Dede Dancing, founder and director of Dancing Prairie Massage Therapy College.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Intimidating” by Olivia Manaligod for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional A...
2021-10-1533 minBest Show Ever59. Miriam Alarcón AvilaThanks for tuning in to Best Show Ever, a podcast presented by The Englert Theatre. In this special edition episode we’re sharing a full conversation with photographer and storyteller Miriam Alarcón Avila. Miriam is the visionary artist behind the Immigrant Luchadores project, a photo documentary series highlighting the stories of Latinx immigrants in Iowa.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Teacher” by Mary Bozaan for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Kim Shillig, Realtor for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the...
2021-10-0841 minBest Show Ever58. Tara McGovern, Justin LeDuc, & Jen KnightsThanks for tuning in to Best Show Ever, a podcast presented by The Englert Theatre. In this week’s episode we talk with Tara McGovern and Justin LeDuc, two ensemble members for the musical project known as Esteban and the Children of the Sun. We also hear from Jen Knights, Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist for the University of Iowa's School of Social Work and host of their new podcast, "Wild Bill’s Cup of Social Justice".
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Second Mug” by O'Boy for our Song of the Week.
Th...
2021-10-0136 minBest Show Ever57. Mimi Ke & Michael TharpOn this week’s episode, we talk Mimi Ke about the art of aerial performing. Then, to keep the aerial theme going, we talk to Michael Tharp, manager of the Iowa City municipal airport.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Too Tired to Sleep” by Alex Ramsey for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidWestOne Bank for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts...
2021-09-2430 minBest Show Ever56. John Schickedanz & Mike WeberIn this week’s episode, we talk to Mike Weber, aka Shadowfox Photography, about his career in concert photography and thoughts on the corridor music scene. Then we hear from the newly appointed Interim Executive Director for The Englert, John Schickedanz.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “I Love You” by Lex Leto for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resili...
2021-09-1742 minBest Show Ever55. Nolan Petersen & Grace SwartzendruberOn this week’s episode we talk with Nolan Petersen, board chair and tenor vocalist for the Quire of Eastern Iowa. We also hear from Grace Swartzendruber, a mother and full-spectrum doula.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “What?” by TIGER! for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Kim Schillig for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwest and its peer United...
2021-09-1030 minBest Show Ever54. Carla Baudrons, Vicki Lensing, & Michael LensingOn this week’s episode we talk about putting art to work with Carla Baudrons, founder of Art Office which is a 12-week accountability program designed to help artists. We also hear from Michael and Vicki Lensing, co-owners of Lensing funeral home.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Sad Stories” by Anthony Worden & the Illiterati for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Region...
2021-09-0336 min
Best Show Ever53. Frankline Matanji, Alissa Witzke, & Bobby LarsonThis week we talk with co-owners of Record Collector, Alissa Witzke and Bobby Larson. We also hear from Frankline Matanji, a PhD student in the school of Journalism and Mass Communications. Franklin speaks on his experience as an international student from Kenya and his favorite live arts performance in Iowa City!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Orcrist” by DRYAD for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and...
2021-08-2741 minBest Show Ever52. Rachel Kilburg & Nick MessersmithIn this week’s episode we talk about the importance of representation in TV and Movies with Iowa City film maven Nick Messersmith. We then talk to Assistant City Manager, Rachel Kilburg, about what it takes to run a city. Rachel also tells us about what makes a Gregory Alan Isakov show so special.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Holy Ghost” by Good Morning Midnight for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Ar...
2021-08-2043 minBest Show Ever51. Jessica Bristow & Kane EdwardsIn this week’s episode we talk with local musician, theme night planner, and community organizer extraordinaire - Kane Edwards. We also hear from Jessica Bristow, a historic preservation planner for the City of Iowa City.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Drive” by Ahzia for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Martin Construction for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwest...
2021-08-1334 minBest Show Ever50. Jon Green & TheZeffsterrIn this week's episode we talk to TheZeffster, performing artist and CEO of Critical Money, a hip-hop music label based in Iowa City. We also hear from Jon Green, former mayor of Lone Tree, Iowa and recently elected Johnson County Supervisor. Jon fills us in on his political journey and his joyous best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Glisten” by Bouquet for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidWestOne Bank for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the...
2021-08-0639 min
Writers of Color Reading SeriesLucy Yuwei DouLucy Dou is a writer, actor, singer, and professional level zither performer. She loves writing and feel thankful to the joy that this storytelling format brings to her. She mainly writes fictions and plays, and also composes music. Her works has been awarded and published nationally. Currently she is a student at University of Iowa double majoring in creative writing and musical theater, but she's going to move to New York City in this fall to study musical theater at American Musical and Dramatic Academy.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
...
2021-08-0228 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesShalini JastiShalini Jasti is a recent University of Iowa graduate having studied English and Creative Writing and Secondary Education. She recently spent time student teaching 8th grade English at Southeast Junior High in Iowa City.
Shalini is passionate about English Education, the globalization of the English language, and the correlation between telling individual and unique stories in native tongues and rising understanding between different communities.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States R...
2021-07-2726 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesShreya KhullarShreya is a rising high school senior at West High School in Iowa City. She currently serves as the Inaugural Iowa Student Poet Ambassador for the 2021-2022 academic year. Her work has been recognized by the Scholastic Writing Awards and can be found, or is forthcoming, in Polyphony Lit and the Rising Phoenix Press. She hopes to write a bestselling novel one day.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience...
2021-07-2622 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesArinze IfeakanduArinze Ifeakandu was born in Kano, Nigeria and studied English at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He is a recent MFA graduate from the Iowa Writers' Workshop, where he was the winner of the 2018 Richard Yates Short Story Contest. Arinze was also shortlisted for The Caine Prize in 2017, and was the winner of a 2015 A Public Space Emerging Writer Fellowship, for his story “God’s Children Are Little Broken Things.” He is currently on a teaching fellowship at the Iowa Writers' Workshop, and his stories have recently appeared in A Public Space and One Story.
The music for th...
2021-07-1220 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesX.H. CollinsX.H. Collins was born in Hechuan, China, and grew up in Kangding, on the East Tibet Plateau. Flowing Water, Falling Flowers is her first novel. She lives in Iowa with her husband, son, and dog. To learn more about her and her work, visit her website at xhcollins.com.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwest and its peer United States...
2021-06-2828 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesAngela PicoAngela Pico was born in the Andes in 1994, spent her early childhood in Bogotá, Colombia and then moved with her parents and twin sister to the Blue Ridge Mountains in rural North Carolina. She called western North Carolina home, until she moved forty minutes east of Los Angeles to study in Pomona College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Romance Languages and Literatures, specializing in Spanish and French Literatures. She won a prize for best thesis. While completing her undergrad degree, she studied French Literature abroad at the Sorbonne University in Paris. After her journey in California, she cam...
2021-06-2123 minBest Show Ever49. Donté K. Hayes, Antoine Williams, & Savannah LaneDonté K. Hayes is an artist who primarily works in the realms of ceramics and printmaking. He attended grad school at the University of Iowa and during his time, acted as a board member for Public Space One and helped build the Center for Afrofuturist Studies. Antoine Williams is a mixed media artist from North Carolina and was scheduled to do an in person residency at PS1 before the pandemic moved the work to a digital format. Savannah Lane is currently the Programming & Production Coordinator here at The Englert. (She’s also the one who types these episode descriptions. Hey...
2021-06-1840 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesDawson DavenportDawson Davenport is a Meskwaki from the Meskwaki Settlement. A 2019 UI grad with a degree in Art, Dawson uses various mediums to showcase his Art. Dawson draws inspiration from his life experience and his Meskwaki way of life.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwest and its peer United States Regional Arts Organizations made possible by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The...
2021-06-1422 min
Best Show Ever48. Marlén Mendoza, Angie Jordan & Joel SorensonJoel Sorenson is the co-founder and owner of All The Way Up in North Liberty, a dance studio for dancers of all ages with styles including hip hop, heels, kpop, breaking, and popping. Angie Jordan and Marlén Mendoza are dedicated community builders, pushing to establish a Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District, otherwise known as a SSMID, to further develop and draw business to the Pepperwood Plaza shopping district.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Jump-start Your Heart” by Miss Christine for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Iowa Review for s...
2021-06-1135 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesJarod Valencia-ChengJarod Valencia-Cheng is a 2nd-year student at the University of Iowa, being originally from Maryland, with a major in Creative Writing and minors in both Dance and Cinema. They are multifaceted in their interests as an RA, a member of the Change UIowa English (CUE) Committee, and a member of multiple dance groups like the Hawkeye Ballroom Dance Company and the UI Salsa Club.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts...
2021-06-0719 minBest Show Ever47. Kembrew McLeod & Sarah NelsonKembrew McLeod is a Professor of Communication Studies at the University of Iowa. He’s written and produced several books and documentaries that focus on popular music, independent media, and copyright law. Kembrew is also well known for being proficient in the art of pranking, for which he’s claimed national notoriety. Sarah Nelson is the former COO at Foundation 2 Crisis Services in Cedar Rapids and the current executive director at Community Crisis Services and Food Bank.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Do U Follow Me?” by Halfloves for our Song of the Week...
2021-06-0436 minBest Show Ever46. Rachel Maker & Mandi NicholsRachel Maker is a Cedar Rapids based retailer and clothing designer. Along with co-owning and operating Found and Formed, a vintage clothing shop in Cedar Rapids, Rachel has been trying her hand at styling local musicians, creating custom stage outfits for the likes of Elizabeth Moen and Anthony Worden. Mandi Nichols is the founder of the corridor community access network also known as CCAN. CCAN’s mission is to facilitate resident participation and empowerment, raising awareness about opportunities to improve the quality of life for all individuals in the Iowa Corridor.
The episode features music by Gossip Cu...
2021-05-2834 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesMekhia HillgrenMekhia Hillgren is from West Des Moines, IA and just graduated from the University of Iowa, where she studied English/Creative Writing and Sustainability. She writes nonfiction work that explores mental health and how emotional abuse affects children as they grow into adulthood.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwest and its peer United States Regional Arts Organizations made possible by The...
2021-05-2421 minBest Show Ever45. Melissa Febos & Richard RodneyMelissa Febos is a critically acclaimed, bestselling author and Associate Professor at the University of Iowa. Her most recent book, Girlhood, is a collection of essays centered around the trauma of a young female body and was released late March. Richard Rodney is a chef and entrepreneur. He owns Rodney’s Jamaican Jerk & BBQ, which caters authentic Jamaican food and sauces.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Pointless” by Ben Rendall for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Iowa Review for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from t...
2021-05-2133 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesYasmina Din MaddenYasmina Din Madden is a Vietnamese American writer who lives in Iowa. Her fiction and nonfiction have been published or are forthcoming in The Idaho Review, PANK, Necessary Fiction, The Forge, The Atticus Review,The Fairy Tale Review and other journals. Her short stories have been finalists for The Iowa Review Award in Fiction and The Masters Review Anthology. Her flash fiction stories have been finalists for the Fractured Micro-Fiction Contest and the Wigleaf Top 50 Very Short Fictions Fiction Prize. She teaches literature and creative writing at Drake University and is at work on a collection of short stories.
2021-05-1725 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesCaroline CheungCaroline Cheung is a PhD Candidate in English, working at the intersections of women of color feminisms, theories of state violence, transformative justice and prison abolitionism. As an educator, her pedagogy focuses on creating radical community in the classroom and amplifying the power that revolutionary, grassroots study has outside of academia, as well. Since teaching at the University of Iowa, Caroline has received the Champion for Student Success Award, Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award, and the Doug Trank Memorial Award for Excellence in Teaching. Her work has appeared in Creative Education, The Press-Citizen, The Daily Iowan, The Des Moines Register...
2021-05-1020 min
Best Show Ever44. Russ Curry & Katie ImborekRuss Curry founded Curious music in 1988. Curious music is a family owned, record label based in Coralville that curates experimental and reflective music. After a near 20 year hiatus Russ is back in the game and has a slew of new projects underway. Among many other things, Katie Imborek is a physician, clinical professor, and co-director of the University of Iowa Health Care’s LGBTQ clinic, which she co founded in 2012. She’s also been a major force behind the expansion of telehealth communications and other efforts related to combatting the COVID-19 pandemic.
The episode features music by Gossi...
2021-05-0735 minWriters of Color Reading Series44. Russ Curry & Katie ImborekRuss Curry founded Curious music in 1988. Curious music is a family owned, record label based in Coralville that curates experimental and reflective music. After a near 20 year hiatus Russ is back in the game and has a slew of new projects underway. Among many other things, Katie Imborek is a physician, clinical professor, and co-director of the University of Iowa Health Care’s LGBTQ clinic, which she co founded in 2012. She’s also been a major force behind the expansion of telehealth communications and other efforts related to combatting the COVID-19 pandemic.
The episode features music by G...
2021-05-0735 min
Best Show Ever43. Jake Jones & Jane WilchThis week, we’ll chat with Jake Jones, a graduate student at the University of Iowa's School of Art and Art History and the production director for KRUI 89.7 FM. We’ll also hear from Jane Wilch, the Recycling Coordinator for the City of Iowa City, about her passion for environmentalism and her climate-focused best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Concrete Stilts” by Dana T. for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City and Lensing Funeral Home for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support...
2021-05-0334 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesMicah Ariel JamesMicah Ariel James is a playwright (Four Stories, How We Bury the War Dead, Better Weather, The Honey War), poet, producer, dramaturg, and teaching artist with particular interests in aging and memory studies, oral history, and restorative justice. She is also an arts administrator committed to developing and facilitates arts programming with an eye toward helping artists discover new approaches to creating meaningful engagement with campus and community partners, and to making the arts more accessible to all audiences. Micah received an MFA in Theatre Arts (Playwriting) from the University of Iowa and a BA in Playwriting from Columbia...
2021-05-0321 minWriters of Color Reading Series43. Jake Jones & Jane WilchThis week, we’ll chat with Jake Jones, a graduate student at the University of Iowa's School of Art and Art History and the production director for KRUI 89.7 FM. We’ll also hear from Jane Wilch, the Recycling Coordinator for the City of Iowa City, about her passion for environmentalism and her climate-focused best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Concrete Stilts” by Dana T. for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City and Lensing Funeral Home for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support...
2021-04-3034 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesSarah ElgationSarah Elgatian is a first generation writer with a lot of questions. She works in the arts hoping to make story telling and literature more accessible. For this episode, she is joined by Ryan Collins, a writer and the Executive Director of the Midwest Writing Center.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Midwest and its peer United States Regional Arts Organizations made...
2021-04-2623 minBest Show Ever42. Hannah Song & JB BarnhouseIn this week’s episode we talk with multimedia artist Hannah Song about how she incorporates platforms like youtube and tiktok into her creative process. Then we check in with master stonemason, JB Barnhouse, about his career and best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Pretty in Pink” by the Hex Girls for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City and Lensing Funeral Home for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and fr...
2021-04-2334 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesKartika BudhwarKartika Budhwar is a writer, educator and editor based out of Ames, Iowa. She is an online writing instructor at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth, and teaches composition and literature at the Iowa Western Community College. She serves as Senior Editor at the South Asian Avant-Garde Anthology and the forthcoming journal for work inspired by current events: Ripe Fiction. She was awarded Second place in the Arts and Letters Fiction Prize, the Blue Mesa Nonfiction Prize and the Indiana Review Fiction Prize; her prose and poetry appears in the same journals. She was also a Finalist f...
2021-04-1930 minBest Show Ever41. Tyler James & Tree BloomquistIn this week’s episode we chat with Tyler James, aka Jim Swim, a language arts teacher by day and hip hop artist/producer by night, about his recent essay about making money as an artist. Then we hear from Tree Bloomquist, assistant manager and baker at Dodge St. Coffeehouse, about her baking journey and best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Organic:Plastic” by Pink Neighbor for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Taxes Plus and Carrie Houchins-Witt for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes...
2021-04-1633 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesXochitl GonzalezXochitl (So-Chee) Gonzalez is a writer and screenwriter, whose debut novel OLGA DIES DREAMING is forthcoming from Flatiron Books. (Jan '22)
A native Brooklynite, she is currently an Iowa Arts fellow at the University of Iowa Writers' Workshop where she is an MFA candidate in fiction ('21). She is the recipient of the 2019 Disquiet Prize and her work has appeared in Vogue, The Cut, Ninth Letter and Joyland Magazine. Prior to getting her MFA, she worked as a strategic consultant, marketer, wedding planner and tarot reader.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake S...
2021-04-1224 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesNichole ShawNichole Shaw is currently a senior studying journalism and English on the publishing track at the University of Iowa. She is the Editorial Lead and Editor at Off-Kilter Media, an inclusive arts and culture company that houses several publications: Off-Kilter Magazine, KIZER Quarterly, The Journal, The Post, and Alphabetical Order. She also plans reports remotely for The New York Times Institute. In addition to her work at OK, Nichole also accepted the role of co-editor at NURU in the summer of 2020 to foster a partnership between NURU and The Daily Iowan in order to maximize inclusion, diversity, and equity...
2021-04-0526 minBest Show Ever40. Ala Mohamed & Adam KnightIn this week’s episode, we’ll be talking to Adam Knight, Producing Artistic Director of Riverside Theatre, about Riverside’s work during the pandemic and the theatre’s new location in Downtown Iowa City. Then we’ll hear from Ala Mohamed, a student at the University of Iowa and one of the founders of the Iowa City Freedom Riders.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “All the Ladies” by Big Begonias for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities and Preucil School of Music for sponsoring this episode.
2021-04-0234 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesGyasi HallGyasi Hall is an essayist, poet, and general Writer of Stuff™ from Columbus, Ohio. Their work is forthcoming, published, or otherwise featured in Black Warrior Review, The 68to05 Project, Thoughtcrime Press, and Get Lit, among others. Their debut poetry chapbook, Flight of the Mothman: An Autobiography, was published by The Operating System in spring 2019. They are the lead nonfiction editor for The BreakBread Literacy Project, and they currently reside in Iowa City where they are pursuing their MFA in creative nonfiction.
The music for this podcast is "Ira" by Blake Shaw.
Ongoing support comes from th...
2021-03-2929 minBest Show Ever39. Andy Martin & Avery MossThis week we’ll hear from choral director and omnipresent musician Avery Moss. We’ll also talk with Andy Martin, co-owner of Martin Construction, about his best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Seriously” by Kane & the Stubborn Stains for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities and Preucil School of Music for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resilience Fund. Phase 1 is an initiative of Arts Mid...
2021-03-2638 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesNick MendozaNick Mendoza is a writer, dancer, and musician from Iowa City. He works at United Action for Youth as their Community Engagement AmeriCorps. He has worn many hats; from leading support groups with Teen Parents and Transitional Living programs, assisting with events such as MLK Day of Service, PrideCon, and Juneteenth, to leading weekly music lessons, Dungeons and Dragons playgroups, and Writing Club.
In both his personal and professional life, he writes predominantly poetry and reflective stories. His writing is a tool for allowing young people to feel like they have a voice. His writing club is...
2021-03-2222 minBest Show Ever38. Phoebe Martin & Toni LeFebvreIn this week’s episode, we talk with musician and founder of the Iowa Women’s Jazz Orchestra, Toni LeFebvre. We’ll also hear from Phoebe Martin, aka the realtor of the people, about her career and best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Ambivalence” by honey swell for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City and Lensing Funeral Home for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regi...
2021-03-1938 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesCaleb "The Negro Artist" RaineyToday we’re talking with Caleb “The Negro Artist” Rainey, an author, performer, and producer. He’s the author of two books: Look, Black Boy and Heart Notes. In 2020 he was named Best Poet/Spoken Word Performer in Cedar Rapids & Iowa City. He co-founded the literary magazine Black Art; Real Stories, was published in Iowa's Best Emerging Poets - 2019, the Little Village Magazine, and wrote a monthly column for The Real Mainstream.
As a performer he is the winner of the Des Moines Poetry Slam, the Iowa City Poetry Slam, a two-time winner of the Fire & Ice Poetry S...
2021-03-1523 minBest Show Ever37. Karen Kubby & Kelso MesserschmittThis week, we’re chatting with Kelso Messerschmitt about their burgeoning career as a tattoo artist. Then we’ll talk with longtime Iowa City artist, activist, and business owner Karen Kubby about her career and her two best shows ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Autographs in Hell” by The Eleanors for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities, Taxes Plus, and MidWestOne Bank for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United S...
2021-03-1237 minWriters of Color Reading SeriesAkwi NjiFor our first episode, we talked with Akwi Nji. Akwi, a multidisciplinary artist and writer, is a Cameroonian American artist creating in words, performance, and visual art. Her work explores the intersectionality of race, gender, and concepts of geographical and spiritual home.
She is founder of an arts organization called The Hook, a member of the Iowa Arts Council Board, the creator of a nationwide audio and visual storytelling arts initiative called The Remoir Project, a 2016 Iowa Arts Council Fellow, and a champion of the artist and the arts through her role as producer of multi-media arts...
2021-03-0827 minBest Show Ever36. Anna Moyers Stone & Lisa BarnesIn this week’s episode we talk with Lisa Barnes, executive director of Summer of the Arts, about programming in a pandemic and what to expect for 2021. Then we chat with mother and avid volunteer, Anna Moyers Stone, about her best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Boys are Boys” by Tooth Ivy for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Region...
2021-03-0531 minBest Show Ever35. Jesse Singerman & Katie GallegosIn this week’s episode we chat with Katie Gallegos, a multidisciplinary artist specializing in bright and playful styles. We also talked with Englert Board member Jesse Singerman, who has lived in Iowa City since 1967. She has a long career working in the Natural Foods industry and has an equally long history of social justice activism and volunteering.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Half the Weight” by Megababes for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City and Iowa Review for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoin...
2021-02-2639 minBest Show Ever34. Isaac Hamlet & Leela Bassuk, Maya BassukIn this week’s episode, we’re talking about Pantone’s Color of the Year and how it comes to be. We chatted with dynamic sister duo, Leela and Maya Bassuk, about their booming Instagram business, Women in Resin. Also, Isaac Hamlet, the Arts & Entertainment Reporter for the Press-Citizen, told us about his best show ever.
We’re taking next week off but we’ll be back with a new episode on February 26th.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “In the Q” by Purple Frank for our Song of the Week.
T...
2021-02-1242 minBest Show Ever33. Kevin Felker & Mark VollenweiderIn this week’s episode, we’ll take a look at some journaling trends and why journaling is a productive use of time. Then, we’ll chat with Mark Vollenweider, a visual artist best known for his detailed pen drawings. We’ll also hear from Kevin Felker, one of the owners of the new Prairie Kitchen Store in Iowa City, about opening a business during the pandemic, and he’ll also share his best show ever with us.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Portrait” by Wave Cage for our Song of the Week.
T...
2021-02-0550 minBest Show Ever32. Benito Ocampo Campos & Stephanie MiracleIn this week’s episode, we discuss at-home and DIY crafting during the pandemic. Then, we’ll chat with dancer, choreographer, and University of Iowa Visiting Assistant Professor Stephanie Miracle about the Parking Space Project. We’ll also hear from Benito Ocampo Campos, the owner of Beno’s Flowers and Gifts, about his best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Rose Gold” by Blist Her for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities and MidWestOne Bank for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National...
2021-01-2938 minBest Show Ever31. Nick Craig & Dana TelsrowIn this week’s episode, we discuss public art initiatives in 2021. Then, we’ll chat with Dana Telsrow, known for his performances as Dana T, Sugar Shield, or as part of the band Karen Meat. We’ll also hear from Nick Craig, the owner of Brix Cheese Shop and Wine Bar, about some of his favorite live shows in Iowa City.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Falconer’s Knot” by Patresa Hartman for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities and Lensing Funeral Home for sponsoring this episode....
2021-01-2244 minBest Show Ever30. Elsworth Carman & Noah NealHappy New Year! We’re back with season 2 of Best Show Ever. This week, we’ll discuss exciting new developments in the #SaveOurStages realm. Then, we’ll hear from Noah Neal, a multidisciplinary artist best known for their graphic design and screen-printing work. Then we’ll talk to Elsworth Carman about his work at the Iowa City Public Library and his best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Nothing New” by Hendy for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City, Best Case Wines, and RSVP for spo...
2021-01-1549 minBest Show Ever29. ReRun: Moxie Hart & Catty WompassHappy holidays from The Englert Theatre! For this week’s episode, we’re revisiting another previous interview. We hope you enjoy our full conversation with Moxie Hart & Catty Wompass. Moxie, who works in the human services field, and Catty, a PhD student at University of Illinois Chicago, are the founding members of Iowa City-based burlesque troupe, Bawdy Bawdy Ha Ha.
This episode features music by Gossip Cult and Alex Body.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities, Hands Jewelers, and Velvet Coat for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts...
2021-01-0134 minBest Show Ever28. ReRun: Rebecca FonsHappy holidays from The Englert Theatre! For this week’s episode, we’re revisiting a previous interview. We hope you enjoy our full conversation with Rebecca Fons. Rebecca serves the art world as the Programming Director for FilmScene in Iowa City; the owner, Development Director, and Programming Director for The Iowa non-profit movie theatre in Winterset; the Director of Film Programming at the Gorton Center in Illinois, and the Co-Founder of Destroy Your Art, a performance art exhibit.
This episode features music by Gossip Cult and Alex Body.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities, Hands Jewelers, and...
2020-12-2548 minBest Show Ever27. Amanda Sharp & Bayo AjoseIn this week’s episode, we discuss music streaming and music investing. Then, we’ll chat with previous Song of the Week feature, Bayo Ajose, known by his stage name ADE. We’ll also hear from Amanda Sharp, a Personal Banker at MidWestOne, about her best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “No Machine” by Awful Purdies for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City, Best Case Wines, and RSVP for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts...
2020-12-1841 minBest Show Ever26. Katie Roche & Nina LohmanThis week, we’re bringing you a special Strengthen Grow Evolve feature. The ambitious capital campaign, created by The Englert Theatre and FilmScene, is closing in on its final act. This episode features an in-depth conversation with The Englert and SGE Development Director, Katie Roche, and the campaign’s chair, Nina Lohman. More information at StrengthenGrowEvolve.org
This episode features music by Gossip Cult and Alex Body.
Thank you to Goodfellow Printing, Iowa City Downtown District, and GreenState Credit Union for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts...
2020-12-1136 minBest Show Ever25. Kelly Ruggles & Ralph Bryant, Joel SiresIn this week’s episode, we discuss the recent publishing industry merger between Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster. Then, we’ll talk with Ralph Bryant and Joel Sires about their new project, Seeder Records, and we’ll hear from local volunteer-extraordinaire Kelly Ruggles about her best show ever. Visit Friends of the Animal Center Foundation at facf.org and the Coralville Community Food Pantry at coralvillefoodpantry.org
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Corona of Springfield” by Brian Johannesen for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities, Bread Gard...
2020-12-0444 minBest Show Ever24. ReRun: Christopher Rasheem-McMillanHappy Thanksgiving from The Englert Theatre! For this week’s episode, we’re revisiting a previous interview. We hope you enjoy our full conversation with Christopher Rasheem-McMillan, a multidisciplinary artist and scholar, University of Iowa assistant professor, Grantwood Art Fellow, and fellow of the institute of Sacred Music at Yale University.
This episode features music by Gossip Cult and Alex Body.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City, Shive-Hattery, and New Pioneer Co-op for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the...
2020-11-2724 minBest Show Ever23. Hans House & Kimmy BlaqueIn this week’s episode, we take a look at the revolution of at-home music recording. Then, we’ll talk with Drag Queen and full time cosmetologist Kimmy Blaque, followed by a conversation with professor of emergency medicine at the University of Iowa, Hans House, and his delightful best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Mexican Fireworks” by Joel Sires for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Goodfellow Printing, Bradley & Riley, and Bread Garden Market for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowmen...
2020-11-2038 minBest Show Ever22. RaQuishia Harrington & Sujit SinghIn this week’s episode, we take a look at some of the changes happening at Riverside Theatre and Hancher Auditorium. Then, we’ll talk with filmmaker and executive director of Combined Efforts Sujit Singh, followed by a conversation with community organizer and North Liberty City Councilor RaQuishia Harrington - on her work in the community and of course, her best show ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Sensitive” by Lily DeTaeye of Des Moines, IA based Station 1 Records for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities, Tuesday...
2020-11-1342 minBest Show Ever21. Manny Gálvez & Kirsten SogaardIn this week’s episode, we share a behind-the-scenes look at production work in the arts. Then, we’ll talk with Kirsten Sogaard, a U.S. postal worker, artist, and local courier, followed by a conversation with Manny Gálvez - founder of Iowa City Latino Festival and local publication El Trueque Iowa - about the power of community and his best show ever!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “january storm” by tomato boy for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City, Phoebe Martin Realty, and OPN Ar...
2020-11-0635 minBest Show Ever20. Uri Lessing & Moxie Hart, Catty WompassIn this week’s episode, we explore methods and meaning behind all-time album rankings. Then, we’ll talk with Moxie Hart and Catty Wompass of Bawdy Bawdy Ha Ha Burlesque, followed by a conversation with Uri Lessing - an avid patron of the arts who has a few best show stories!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Appetizers” by Ramona Muse Lambert for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Goodfellow Printing, M.C. Ginsberg, and Marcus Fitzpatrick Team for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National...
2020-10-3038 minBest Show Ever19. Genevieve Trainor & Matt SteeleIn this week’s episode, we’re talking about Witching Hour Festival! In arts news, Elly and Andre break down the idea behind this year’s festival production. Then, we welcome a few of our friends and festival co presenters from Little Village - publisher, Matt Steele, followed by a Best Show Ever conversation with arts editor Genevieve Trainor!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Solar Lullaby” by Closet Witch for our Song of the Week..
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities, Best Case Wines, and Taxes Plus for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoi...
2020-10-2342 minBest Show Ever18. Jamie Powers & Bill AdamsIn this week’s episode, we’re sharing a conversation about venue closures across America with returning guest Tobi Parks, co-founder of Des Moines venue xBk; Amedeo Rossi, owner of the recently closed Vaudeville Mews in Des Moines, and our very own Andre Perry. Then, we’ll talk with photographer Bill Adams and head chef and owner of Deluxe Cakes and Pastries, Jamie Powers.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Creature of Habit” by Elizabeth Moen for our Song of the Week.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City, Iowa City Downtown D...
2020-10-1651 min
Best Show Ever17. Sara McGuirk & Kevin TrundaIn this week's episode, we’re excited to share some arts news and upcoming work from our friends at Iowa Dance Festival. Then, we’ll talk with student and talent buyer for Scope Productions, Kevin Trunda, followed by a conversation with writer, drag artist, and adjunct professor Sara McGuirk.
This episode features music by Gossip Cult and Alex Body. As of December 2020, we have removed this episode’s Song of the Week segment, which featured a track by Gloom Balloon. Since the original release of this episode, we have reviewed new information and determined that supporting work by thi...
2020-10-0946 min
Best Show Ever16. Bryn Lovitt & Ben HandlerIn this week's episode, we’ll take a look at one music industry that’s been thriving this year. Then, we’ll talk with videographer and film colorist Ben Handler and go deep into the IC DIY music scene with arts and culture journalist Bryn Lovitt!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “We” by SoulTru.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities, Emma Goldman Clinic, and moengroup for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the United States Regional Arts Resil...
2020-10-0234 min
Best Show Ever15. Cory Kent & T.J. Dedeaux-NorrisIn this week's episode, we’ll discuss immediate and long term issues being addressed by leaders in the museum world. Then, we'll talk with multimedia artist and professor T.J. Dedeaux-Norris and hear from Cory Kent on his best show ever!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Circus Came to Town” by Crystal City.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City, Phoebe Martin, Realtor, and the Iowa Children’s Museum for sponsoring this episode.
Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and from the...
2020-09-2550 min
Best Show Ever14. Kristy Hartsgrove-Mooers & Thom Kutz, Tobi ParksIn this week's episode, Elly explores some troubling trends in reading habits in arts news before having a conversation with Tobi Parks and Thomas Kutz, the duo behind Station 1 Records and Des Moines music venue xBk. We’ll also be joined by actor and theatre instructor Kristy Hartsgrove-Mooers to hear her Best Show Ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and “Sleepwalk” by a local trio comprised of Keegan Konsor, Nick Wilkins, and Siegfriid.
Thank you to Goodfellow Printing, Iowa City Downtown District, and New Pioneer Coop for sponsoring this episode.
Ongo...
2020-09-1848 min
Best Show Ever13. JoAnn LS & James TutsonIn this week's episode, Andre Perry is joined by high school music teacher Annie Savage, for a conversation on how music educators are adapting during the pandemic. Then, we'll share our conversations with Iowa City musician James Tutson and hear about JoAnn Larpenter Sinclair’s surprising best show ever!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and features a spoken-word piece from Nancy Nahra.
Thank you to MidAmerica Securities, New Pioneer Coop, and Beadology for sponsoring this episode. Ongoing support comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Iowa Arts Council, and fr...
2020-09-1142 min
Best Show Ever12. Jamie Ellis & Rebecca FonsIn this week's episode, host Elly Hofmaier shares how decisions to release highly anticipated films on streaming platforms are causing a shift in the film industry. Then, we'll share our conversations with midwest film (and FilmScene!) programmer Rebecca Fons and hear all about Jamie Ellis' twelve-hour long Best Show Ever.
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and the song of the week, “Aerial Oceans", a track from midwest folk group The Pines’ 2015 record, ‘Above the Prairie’.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City, moengroup, and Ten Thousand Villages for sponsoring this episode. Ongoing...
2020-09-0448 min
Best Show Ever11. Katy Meyer & Steven WillisIn this week's episode, Andre Perry is joined by Damani Phillips for a discussion about how the UI School of Music is adapting during the pandemic. Then, we'll share our conversations with poet and actor Steven Willis, and hear about Katy Meyer's winter solstice Best Show Ever!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, and the song of the week, "Ichor" featuring Gabi Vanek and Will Yager, off of their recently released LP, 'Ghost Actions'.
Thank you to Goodfellow Printing, New Pioneer Coop, and FilmScene for sponsoring this episode. Ongoing support comes from...
2020-08-2848 min
Best Show Ever10. Christine Ralston & Casey GartlanIn this week's episode, host Elly Hofmaier is joined by Andre Perry for a discussion about a major investment from some of the largest philanthropy foundations in an effort to support non-profits struggling during the pandemic. Then, we'll share our conversations with local artist Casey Gartlan, and hear about Christine Ralston's mind-blowing Best Show Ever!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, with the song of the week featuring, "I'm Cool and I'm Famous", a track featuring Forrest Heusinkveld, Daron Vest, and Maurice Campbell, off of the Project Connect EP just released this month.
2020-08-2137 min
Best Show Ever9. Arin Eaton & the DerechoIn this week's episode, host Elly Hofmaier is joined by Andre Perry for a discussion on what the cancellation of summer festivals has done to the events industry and the organizations that run them. Then, we'll share our conversation with one half of Karen Meat and owner of knitting goods store The Knithole, Arin Eaton. Due to the derecho, our BSE interview was interrupted and we look forward to sharing more shows again soon!
The episode features music by Gossip Cult, Alex Body, with the song of the week featuring Moline's dreamy psych-rock band, Dark Family.
...
2020-08-1442 min
Best Show Ever8. Chuy Renteria & Justin K ComerIn this week's episode, we’re taking a look at reforms being made within the Recording Academy to make the Grammy Awards more fair and inclusive. Then we’ll talk to Justin Comer about what being an arts worker and creative in the time of covid means for him. We’ll also hear from Chuy Renteria, the Public Engagement Coordinator at Hancher, about the work he does creating community through the arts and his favorite Iowa City performance.
The episode features music by Alex Body and the song of the week features Thrio.
Thank you to Goo...
2020-08-0746 min
Best Show Ever7. Kevin Mills & Rachel YoderIn our seventh episode, host Elly Hofmaier breaks down how the pandemic has affected the literary world, from tours to book releases. The episode features Kevin Mills of The Tuesday Agency, who shares his intimate best show ever, seeing an artist on the rise! We also spoke with writer and champion of literature in Iowa City, Rachel Yoder, who shared her experiences of being a writer in the time of COVID, and the latest on her upcoming novel, Nightbitch.
The episode features music by Alex Body, Gossip Cult, and the art of the week features poetry by...
2020-07-3141 min
Best Show Ever6. Mark Nolte & Leslie NolteElly Hofmaier reports on how dance companies and studios have kept going during the pandemic. The episode features former ICAD Director Mark Nolte, who shares his party of a best show ever from 1996! We also spoke with dancer and head of Nolte Academy, Leslie Nolte, who shared the challenges and changes that they've gone through in the past four months.
The episode features music by Alex Body, Gossip Cult, and the song of the week is from Jordan Sellergren.
Thank you to Toyota of Iowa City, Lensing Funeral, & Bradley & Riley for sponsoring this episode!
Best Sho...
2020-07-2442 min
Best Show Ever5. Joe Reilly & Christopher Rasheem McMillanElly Hofmaier reports on We See You, White American Theatre, a group of Black, Indigenous, and people of color, leading a call for overdue changes to create equity both in Broadway theatre and beyond. The episode features Joe Reilly, Iowa City Downtown District's Nighttime Mayor, who shares his cathartic best show ever featuring his favorite artist! We also spoke with artist and scholar, Christopher Rasheem-McMillan touching on everything from the connections of theology and dance to his performance of The Reaping at Witching Hour 2019.
The episode features music by Alex Body, Gossip Cult, and the song of the w...
2020-07-1742 min
Best Show Ever4. Nick Bergus & Crystal ShermanIn our fourth episode, host Elly Hofmaier discusses the problem streaming platforms pose for artists. The episode features Nick Bergus, discussing his work with the City of North Liberty and NL Blues & BBQ, where his best show ever just happened to take place! We also spoke with Gabe's audio engineer Crystal Sherman, to talk about the creation of the 'No Touching Sessions' digital concert series that take place in a crowd-less Gabe's and features local musicians.
The episode features music by Alex Body, Gossip Cult, and a track from ADE.
Thank you to Goodfellow Printing, FilmScen...
2020-07-1042 min
Best Show Ever3. John Engelbrecht & Lily DeTaeyeIn our third episode, host Elly Hofmaier talks about the National Independent Venues Association and their effort to help the nationwide struggle that venues are facing due to the pandemic. The episode features Public Space One Director John Engelbrecht, sharing how PS1 has continued to create, program, and finish their new space during the pandemic, and sharing his Best Show Ever - an evening shared with a small crowd in the basement of the Wesley Center. We also spoke with singer-songwriter and arts worker, Lily DeTaeye, to talk about everything from the loss of live shows, her work with Des M...
2020-07-0339 minBest Show Ever2. Maeve Clark & Brian JohannesenIn our second episode, host Elly Hofmaier breaks down how #theshowmustbepaused movement, started by two black women in the music industry, was co-opted into what most knew as #blackouttuesday. The episode features recently retired librarian of 35 years, Maeve Clark, sharing her work and decades of amazing arts experiences in Iowa City. We also spoke with IC singer-songwriter and arts worker, Brian Johannesen, to talk about how the pandemic is affecting not only his work but the music industry, both locally and nationally.
The episode features music by Alex Body, Gossip Cult, and a new release from Purcha$e....
2020-06-2540 minBest Show Ever1. Monique GalpinIn our introductory episode, we talk with Monique Galpin, coordinator of the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) at the University of Iowa, member of the African-American Council, former chair of the Iowa City Police review board and a member of the Emma Goldman Clinic board of directors. We chat about Monique's take on the recent protests following the murder of George Floyd. Of course, we finish by asking Monique about her Best Show Ever -- an experience she won't soon forget. Featuring music by Alex Body and Gossip Cult. Best Show Ever is produced by the Englert in I...
2020-06-1932 min