OFF ROAD with Peter Palmisano - An RLTP Podcast

Patrick F. Ryan - Cultural Coordinator of the Richardson-Olmsted Campus

Looming over Forest and Elmwood Avenues, in the shadow of the great AKG and Burchfield Penney Art Galleries, stand the dominating towers of the Richardson-Olmsted Campus. Sitting down to talk about its history, its current usage, and its bright future is Cultural Coordinator Patrick F. Ryan, a young man with knowledge far beyond his years. This fascinating discussion is preceded by the talented Jamie Nablo who explains the relatively new theatrical practice of “shadow-casting” and how it continues to wow audiences with its unique and fun proceedings.

A Tribute to Gerry Maher

When Gerry Maher departed from his family and the Buffalo theater community on June 16, 2023, there were many anguished expressions of disbelief, sorrow, and sympathy. Although Peter never had the opportunity to interview Gerry, we now pay tribute to this friend and colleague with some stories of his life and some remembrances of the joy he brought to so many.  In this special episode, his daughter Eliza answers some of the questions about Gerry’s background, and five friends recall their fondest memories with nostalgic humor and love.

Bonus Holiday Episode! Peter & Sabrina Talk Holiday Traditions

BONUS HOLIDAY POD! In the rush to prepare for the upcoming holidays, and not wanting to completely skip a regular scheduled podcast, Peter decided to slow things down for a relaxed extended conversation with Sabrina Kahwaty after her “Step Out with Sabrina” segment. The results are here for your listening pleasure as the two discuss some personal family traditions…some from very long ago!

Bobby Cooke - Actor, Singer, Dancer, Choreographer, Director, and Educator

When Bobby Cooke isn’t busy, he…well, never mind. He’s NEVER not busy! Without exaggeration, Peter refers to him as the “busiest man in Buffalo show business” for one reason: he is. As an actor, singer, dancer, choreographer, director, and educator, he is in high demand at every theater in Buffalo…and elsewhere. It doesn’t hurt that he is also one of the most likable people around. Hear what makes him so popular on this episode!

Collin Ranney - Costume and Set Designer

There are certain theaters in Buffalo that have boasted jaw-dropping and gasp-inducing set designs. When the audience is affected in this way, there’s a good chance that the set was designed by Collin Ranney. After working in the D.C. area for a few years, Collin returned to his family in Buffalo to establish himself as one of the most sought-after designers of both sets and costumes. Hear his story on this episode, preceded by a delightful segment of “Step Out With Sabrina” in which holiday fare becomes the focus.

Janne Sirén - Director of Buffalo AKG Art Museum

One of the most famous art galleries in the world is located right in our city, and it was well known to one of the world’s most accomplished and knowledgeable art historians. So, Janne Sirén, originally from Finland but well-traveled throughout the art world, was more than delighted to transplant himself and his family in order to accept the position of Director of the renowned and expanding museum that would soon be known simply as the "Buffalo AKG Art Museum." He recounts his history and background with Peter, but they soon advance to a discussion of the importance and value of art in our every day life. In a bonus interview, the ever popular Norm Sham talks about his November foray into improv when he guest stars in RLTP’s UnScripted.

Richard Satterwhite - Actor, Director and Patient Engagement Specialist at Roswell Park Cancer Institute

Though Richard Satterwhite is best known as an actor and director, his work at Roswell Park Cancer Institute as a Patient Engagement Specialist could be considered far more significant, since it is there that he makes an almost daily contribution to the health and well-being of so many men in our area. But, of course, we talk also about his life and his experiences in improv, and the stage and film performances that have made his face recognizable throughout our town.
 
Also, we once again “Step Out With Sabrina”!

Keelie Sheridan - Artistic Director of Irish Classical Theatre Company

She may be the “new kid in town,” but Keelie Sheridan brings a wealth of talent, skill, and experience to her new role as Artistic Director of the Irish Classical Theatre Company. Meet this dynamic and charming young woman when she sits down to talk to Peter about how thrilled she is to be joining Buffalo’s established and thriving theater scene. But first, ICTC veteran Reneé Radzavich talks about her exciting new role directing operations at D’Youville Kavinoky Theatre!

Nick Quinn - Light & Sound Designer & Educator

In keeping with Peter’s desire to explore all aspects of live theater, this episode welcomes Nick Quinn. A relative newcomer to the area, Nick is a lighting designer, teacher, and sound designer, most recently for RLTP’s production of Murder Ballad. Plus, Buffalo Spree editor Sabrina Kahwaty attempts to entice Peter to leave the comfort of his couch with the new recurring segment “Step Out With Sabrina.” 

Off Road 100th Episode! Jenn Stafford - Actor / RLTP Murder Ballad Cast Member

Celebrating Off Road's 100th episode! The lovely and talented Jenn Stafford comes on board to spill about the joys and heartbreaks of being in a love triangle in Murder Ballad, while Todd Benzin explains what it will be like every Wednesday doing improv without a net…or a script in “Unscripted,” with weekly guest performers - both on the RLTP stage!