OFF ROAD with Peter Palmisano - An RLTP Podcast

Stan Klimecko - Actor

When Stan Klimecko sat down for an in depth interview, it was in the warmth of a mid-August summer, but his story is just as much fun to hear now, during a cold and sometimes snowy holiday season. Having appeared on stages from Buffalo to New York to LA, and in several major films, Stan’s stories of trying to make it as an artist show a determination and range that have served him well. From a star-making appearance in a Studio Arena production of “Streetcar” to his recent performance as Scrooge at the Kenan Center, his talents have been praised by many.
 

Hasheen DeBerry - Production Coordinator

Behind the scenes at RLTP, there are always those who work in relative obscurity; it takes a village to produce every show! This week, our focus is on Production Coordinator Hasheen DeBerry, an unsung hero without whom no show ever reaches the audience. He tells the story of how he came to fill this all important role and talks about hopes for an expanded role in the future. But preceding him, David Hayes, one of the most popular and familiar faces in front of the curtain, opens up about his background, his theater life, and his “other” life at Canisius High School.

Camilla Maxwell - Actor

It’s “Newcomer November” here on Off Road, and to fulfill that promise, we start off with recent Niagara University graduate, Lauren Farrow. Currently playing the role of Theresa in RLTP’s ongoing show Mr. Wolf, this delightful young lady tells the story of how she arrived at this, her first professional show. Not to be outdone, she is followed by an equally fun and revealing interview with an equally important actor from the same show who is also new to the Buffalo theater scene, albeit a bit more experienced: Camilla Maxwell…straight from Sydney, Australia by way of New York City!

Brian Higgins - President & Ceo - Shea's Performing Arts Center

Ever since his semi-surprise exit from the political front, and his totally surprise appointment as President and CEO of Shea’s Performing Arts Center, Brian Higgins has continued his tradition of making a difference in the Buffalo and WNY community. Now, however, his vision extends to the world of live theater, an area that was heretofore beyond his immediate influence. With big plans for both Shea’s PAC and the entire surrounding area, Higgins was more than gracious in his willingness to let us in on a sneak peak at his dreams and visions for the icon of Main Street. (Photo by Nancy Parisi)

Aleks Malejs - Actor

When Aleks Malejs hit the theater scene seemingly out of nowhere, the question was immediately “Where did SHE come from?”  But very shortly, she was wowing audiences in almost every major theater in town. Here is her story, full of heart and humor, with so many surprises that Peter found himself in total amazement at this dear friend whom he has known since playing her father in her first play in town.

Buffalo & Erie County Library - Shakespeare's First Folio Tour & Brendan Didio of Shakespeare in Delaware Park

The cast of The Book of Will had the privilege of an up close look at Shakespeare’s 400 year old First Folio, in permanent residence at the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library. The informative session, led by Heather Gring and Susan Buttaccio, was recorded by Peter who edited it to share with listeners. But before the segment featuring these ladies, Shakespeare in Delaware Park’s Brendan Didio gives us the scoop on how SDP and RLTP became co-producers and subsequently planned a cast trip to the library.

Norm Sham - Actor

As one of the most recognizable figures in the local theater community, Norm Sham has made his name as a loved comic actor in Shakespeare in Delaware Park, as a musical theater performer at the Kavinoky and MusicalFare, and as an all-around theater practitioner both in front of and behind the curtain. He’s generally pretty private, but after much pursuit, he sat down for a candid conversation about his life.

Robby Takac - Musician, Artist, Promoter

Few musicians are as well known around town as Robby Takac from "Goo Goo Dolls.” In the middle of a nationwide tour, and in conjunction with the promotion of their recently released new album, Robby took time out to chat with Peter about his roots in the community, the journey of the “Goos” from co-founding to current live shows, and the upcoming continuation of the wildly successful local festival known at "Music Is Art.” But first, Peter welcomes Sarah Foote to the microphone, as they discuss her recent appointment to the all-important role of General Manager of RLTP. 

Greg Stuhr - Actor, Director, Screenwriter

There are certain guests who make the conversation so easy and enjoyable that time simply passes too quickly. This was the case with old friend Greg Stuhr. Having recently appeared on Broadway (and CNN) in the highly acclaimed production of Good Night and Good Luck, this became the starting point for a rousing and revealing chat-fest that begged to be broken into two parts! In this portion, Greg talks knowledgeably and with great candor about casting, rehearsals, and time onstage with George Clooney. Then he continues with an inside preview of his Shakespeare in Delaware Park directorial debut of Richard III, opening in late July. And it’s only the first half of this not-to-be-missed interview!

Keith Elkins - Actor & Educator

Keith Elkins’ life defies description, having gone from the depths of family crises to the heights of both higher education instruction and theater performance. Still quite active in his nineties, Keith’s home served as the location for a candid and comprehensive interview with this fascinating man.