OFF ROAD with Peter Palmisano - An RLTP Podcast

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!

Vincent O’Neill - Founder of Irish Classical Theatre, Performer & Educator

We start with a feature about the 40th anniversary of Curtain Up! as Lisa Ludwig talks about the excitement to come. Then, Vincent O’Neill performed his first show in a banquet room in Cheektowaga, but no one could have predicted the influence he and his brother Chris would have on the Buffalo theater community in the very near future. Vincent explains how it all began in this fun and important interview with the founder of the Irish Classical Theater Company.

Neal Radice - Former Alleyway Theatre Executive Director

BONUS LENGTH EPISODE! When the Buffalo professional theater community was in its infancy, there was one man to call when you wanted to start something from the ground up. Why? Because he had done it all…and he would help you do the same! Neal Radice could be considered one of the most important building blocks in the development of many of our most historic theaters. On this episode he talks about how it all began, where it is all headed, and how he continues to be active and involved…but not as much as he’d like!

Special guest Jim Santella

Though Jim Santella could arguably claim to be the father of rock radio in Buffalo, his career included a variety of outlets for his talents. Theater enthusiasts would become instant fans of his work with Tony Chase on Theater Talk for WBFO, and their easy camaraderie and knowledgeable critiques made every episode mandatory listening. Still a recognizable voice, Jim accepts Peter’s undying gratitude as he talks about his past contributions to Buffalo's media history.

Special guest John Cimasi

As the heyday of community theater continued in Buffalo, John Cimasi discovered a formula for dinner theater that would woo thousands of patrons to his brother’s “Showboat” restaurant at the foot of Hertel Avenue. After some serious remodeling, the venue became the home to hundreds of local actors and theater technicians who were paid for their efforts for the first time! Many later went on to extensive careers elsewhere, some even forming theater companies of their own. Later performing at many restaurants locally and in neighboring states, John’s “Melic and Mime” group became the foundation of Buffalo’s theater future. Here’s his story.

Special guest Brian LaTulip

For many years, Brian LaTulip was a go-to lead actor at every major Buffalo theater. He was also a very successful restauranteur whose “Klondike” bar and grille was mightily popular for its “Bison-meat” entrees! Then Brian suffered a number of medical challenges, forcing his retirement from the stage, but the story of his varied careers is finally told in this episode!