Arts Blast on the Air with Willi Miller

Dee Rose and Bill Collins join us to discuss the Vero Beach Theatre Guild.  We discover how the Theatre Guild gets the rights to a particular show, how Dee and Bill each got into theatre, and how they arrived at the Theatre Guild.  We learn that open auditions are October 26, 27, and 28 for ages 10+.  We also discuss the amazing story of "Come From Away," a musical that tells the true story of what happened in Gander, Newfoundland, on September 11, 2001, when 38 planes carrying nearly 7,000 stranded passengers were abruptly diverted there after U.S. airspace closed.  "Come From Away" runs October 16-November 1st.  Disco...

Arts Blast on the Air - Dr. Marco Flores tells us about his next chapter in life. After 22 years at Christ By the Sea, he has opened the Marcos Flores Piano Studio on Miracle Mile in Vero Beach. The studio features 3,000 square feet of space dedicated to advancing the music education of anyone age 5 and up. Enroll in piano lessons, music theory and history classes, and chamber music classes; learn everything that's involved in being a pianist. The Open House Gala is November 13-15th. Discover more at MarcosFloresPianoStudio.org

The executive director of the Laura "Riding" Jackson Fou...

The A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery is celebrating its 66th season and Executive Director Marshall Adams discuss Fort PIerce, the history of the museum and the Florida Highwaymen, and what is happening there now. Accessible free parking is available despite the construction going on until January. Watch for five special exhibitions this season, including the 45th Annual Juried Exhibition October 4-November 13. You could win a masterpiece by Florida Highwayman Sam Newton in February. Tickets and details at BackusMuseum.org

Did you know the late local inventor Sterling Elliott holds 125 patents for his inventions? It's one of the many...

Music has always been in Tony Spadafora's heart. This week, he talked about how he started singing in Broadway shows and choruses while working full time. He was able to retire into music in 2005 and has been enjoying singing with the Indiatlantic Chamber Singers ever since. 

Beth Green, artistic director of Indiatlantic Chamber Singers, began her career in public education, becoming a voice teacher and joining a choir as a singer. She has a degree in Choral Music Education and she tells us about the importance of exposing children to music early. We also talk about auditions; the websi...

Marty and Bev Paris take time from their busy schedule to talk to us about Music Works Concerts and Paris Productions.  They're putting on 16 live performances through April.  Concerts inlude Go Now (Featuring the music of the Moody Blues) November 19th, Jay and the Americans January 21st, and Jefferson Starship March 13th.  All concerts are at the Emerson Center in Vero Beach.  Tickets and details can be found at MusicWorksConcerts.com

We also discuss" Hidden Faces 2026: From Homeless to Home," the unveiling of The Source's Dignity Ranch. November 7th, at 801 154th Ave., Vero Beach.  Details are online at Iamth...

We're joined by Mark Barnes of Port St Lucie Botanical Gardens.  We discuss Mark's musical career; he's released 15 albums, has won 40+ music awards and he's a member of the Indie Music Hall of Fame!  He's also been in charge of marketing for PSL Botanical Gardens, a volunteer-run non-profit center with a variety of gardens, since 2011.  Be sure to attend the Botanical Bazaar and Orchid Symposium, rain or shine, on Saturday, October 10th from 9-4.  Discover more about Mark's music at MarkBarnesMusic.com and about the gardens at pslbg.org

Mike Freeman joins the show to tell us about the...

President of the Vero Beach Theatre Guild, Dee Rose joins the show and she's excited for "Steel Magnolias" to play her 205-seat theatre from September 11-27.  It's going to be a popular one; 59 women auditioned for 6 roles!  We discuss how Dolly Parton's recent death affected the cast and crew.  And "Come From Away" which tells the true story of a small Canadian town that welcomed thousands of stranded airline passengers on September 11, 2001, plays the Theatre Guild in November.

Kate Maingot of the Gifford Academy for the Performing Arts (formerly the Gifford Youth Orchestra) joins the show to tell us...

Vero Beach Museum of Art's Deputy Director Suzanne Seldes joins the show to tell us about the new season and the construction progress. The Museum will be open seven days a week beginning in September.  Every 2nd Saturday of the month is free admission.  The museum offers classes and workshops for all; veterans are free.  Discover more at VBMuseum.org

Indian River Symphonic Association Managing Director Teresa Cannady then joins us to talk about the concert they produce every year for 1,100+ area 5th graders.  We also discuss the 3-D printed instruments given away to local students and how you...

Althea Wilson joins us and we talk about the recent history of the McAlpin Theatre at Indian River State College and the upcoming upgrades.  We discuss the theatre's relationship with the Port St Lucie Community Band and upcoming concerts and events, including "Laugh Out Local" comedy nights.  Tickets and details at irsc.edu/community/performing-arts/

Nancy Turrell joins us to talk about the Martin Arts Foundation and Martin Arts Council and how they supports arts and culture in Martin County.  We discuss the 5th Annual Members Show in September and the scholarships that will be awarded at the Marti...

Staci Rosbury joins the show to tell us about the Indian River Symphonic Association and it's 2027 season.  A series of five concerts kick off on January 25th with the Cleveland Orchestra.  The Orlando Philharmonic visits on February 15th.  All concerts are held at the Community Church of Vero Beach and details and tickets can be found online at IRSymphonic.org.  We also discuss how the IRSA partners with Forte 3D to provide 3D printed instruments to students who need them. 

The conversation switches to the Melbourne Municipal Band, celebrating 62 years, with an announcement of new things coming soon.  The ne...

Judy Burgarella and Camy De Mario join the show to talk about art, and more specifically, the Florida Art Chix Studio, now in it's 4th year.  We ask Judy how she inspires her art students.  We discuss "Hot Summer Art," featuring works by guest artists Justine Lomenzo, Iris Peterson, P. Hall, Jeff Hall, Michael Degnon, Ena Raquer, and Gallery Owners Camy De Mario and Judy Burgarella.  "Hot Summer Art" will be on view from August 4th to August 31st, and includes a book launch and signing on De Mario's new memoir, "What I Carried Through the Fire," a riveting trus sto...

We're joined by Kelly Levenstein and Matthew Karram of the Treasure Coast Symphony.  Their 21st Annual Holiday Extravaganza Concert and Food Drive is December 13th at 3pm at the Kane Center in Stuart.  Tickets and details can be found online at treasurecoastsymphony.org or, better yet, download the free new Treasure Coast Symphony app on your phone's app store.

Adam Schnell joins us to discuss what's going on at Ballet Vero Beach.  The Riverside Dance Festival, featuring the Dimensions Dance Theatre of Miami, takes the Riverside Waxlax Stage August 6-8 at 7:30 pm.  Get tickets now at balletverobeach.org.

Peg Girard has been involved with the Melbourne Civic Theatre since she was 15 years old.  Now, she's in charge of this intimate 93-seat theatre, and proud to present "Nine The Musical" starring 15 talented singing women, July 31st-September 6th.  That's followed by "Sherlock's Last Case," "Little Women," "Greater Tuna," and "All My Sons."  Melbourne Civic Theatre is at 817 East Strawbridge Avenue and online at mymct.org

We're also joined by Dr. José Leal of the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel Island.  We speak about its beginnings involving actor Raymond Burr.  we talk about how the currents, topography and winds...

Suzanne Seldes and Kelly Rogers join us to talk about the Vero Beach Museum of Art and their upcoming exhibit, "James Prosek: Art Work" opening July 11th, with a Meet-and-Greet from 10am-1pm that day.  The exhibit features an interactive art experience where the public is invited to help create a mural.  July 11th, and every 2nd Saturday of the month, is a free admission day for all ages!  We also receive an update on the ongoing construction project, and the public can track the real-time construction progress at Future.VBMuseum.org.  Find direction and details about all of the exhi...

We're joined by Michelle Nevaeh, president of the Vero Beach Art Club which is celebrating its 90th year!  We talk about the gallery stroll which takes place every first Friday of every month from 5-8pm.  VBAC is over 500 members strong, with an Adult Summer Camp coming soon.  Visit them at 1903 14th Avenue in Vero Beach or online at VeroBeachArtClub.org

Leslie McKenzie joins us to discuss her role at the Vero Beach Heritage Center and Citrus Museum, at which you can learn all about the history of the citrus industry in Indian River County and what made thi...

Teresa Cannady joins us and we learn how her very interesting background in international law and helping developing countries establish the rule of law actually helps her in her new role in the arts, managing director of the Indian River Symphonic Association. The new season begins with a January concert featuring the Cleveland Orchestra. Tickets are on sale now at irsymphonic.org.   

We're also joined by Darryl Bey, owner of Bluebird Bistro and Wine Bar at 809 Delaware Avenue in Fort Pierce, and founder of Bluebird Educational Foundation. The Foundation provides a Musical Instrument Donation Program for middle and hi...

Friend of the show Marcos Flores joins us. After 22 years as Director of Worship Arts at Christ By The Sea Church in Vero Beach, he's leaving to start his own piano studio. The Marcos Flores Piano Studio offers one-on-one piano lessons, group piano classes, chamber music classes, and educational performances. It's on Miracle Mile, at 701 21st Street, Suite 11, Vero Beach, and online at MarcosFloresPianoStudio.com
Lauren Delgardo is the Social Media Director at Brevard Zoo. We wondered if rocket launches affect the animals, and how visitors can enjoy the zoo in the heat of the summer.  Brevard Zoo is home...

Grace Phillips, the Development Manager of the Historical Society of Martin County joins us by phone.  This Historical Society operates the Elliott Museum and the Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge in Stuart.  Grace and Willi talk about a crazy night of trivia coming up called "What the Florida?" on wednesday, June 24th at 5:30. Hurry; tables of 8 are going fast! 

Exciting new exhibits are coming, including "3D Doubt Your Eyes" and "Charles Fazzino; Master of 3D Pop Art" beginning Monday, June 15th.  The Thursday Auto and Garages Tour continues on, as well as the unique Eliott exhibit some people call...

Kevin Quillinan, Director of Education of Riverside Children's Theatre, along with Ellie Palm and Savanna "Vanna" Ray Brown join the show to tell us about an exciting, completely immersive performance of "Frozen" at Riverside Theatre.  The show is happening all around you and you're in the action.  There will be three different versions; The full Broadway production is June 18-20 & 24-27... "Frozen, Jr." (one hour long) is July 9-11 & 15-18... and "Frozen Kids" (a half-hour) is July 22-25, so make sure you see all three!

The president of the Vero Beach Theatre Guild, Dee Rose, joins the show to discuss the upcoming 69th season!  The exciting lineup is set and auditions for Steel Magnolias take place June 15, 16, & 17 at the Theatre Guild.  Reserve a date and time online to audition. Get show schedules, details, tickets, and more by calling the box office at 772-562-8300 or visiting VeroBeachTheatreGuild.com

Martin County artist Jane Baldridge invites everyone to Meet the Artists of Tropical Temptations, June 3, 5:30-7:30p.m., at the Palm Room Art Gallery, 3446 SE Ocean Blvd., Stuart. The show will be up through June 27. An acc...

PIanist Larry Brown joins us to talk about the Florida Summer Jazz Camp for musicians of ALL ages, June 8th-June 12th, from 10am to 3pm, at the Indian River Charter High School.  Two-thirds of everyone's tuition is covered by the Fort Pierce Jazz & Blues Society.  To register, visit jazzsociety.org.  To learn more about Larry Brown, visit LarryBrownJazz.org

Sara Wilson tells us about the Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundarion and their Summer Creative Writing Camp for middle schoolers, the weeks of June 8th, 15th, and 22nd.  Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundation is at 1914 14th Avenue in Vero Beach and you...

Explore the vibrant arts scene with "Arts Blast on the Air," featuring Ballet Vero Beach and Riverside Theatre. Discover upcoming performances, including "Frozen" adaptations and "Spring Fling," alongside renovations at Riverside Theatre. Learn about youth programs, summer camps, and the Melbourne Municipal Band's diverse concert schedule. This episode highlights collaborations and exciting artistic endeavors.

Adam Schnell (and his dog Frankie) tells us about Ballet Vero Beach.  Their "Spring Fling" plays at the McAlpin Fine Arts Center at IRSC on May 15th and 16th and at Riverside Theatre May 22nd, 23rd & 24th.  "spring Fling" features the company premiere of George Balanchine's original Valse Fantasies, the playful ABBA-Solutely, set to the iconic sounds of ABBA, and the return of fan-favorite Caprice. Get tickets and details online at Balletverobeach.org

Rob Steele joins us by phone to discuss the Historical Society of Martin County, the new and exciting things happening at the Elliott Museum and th...

Summer is coming and Elise Mahovlich joins the show to talk about the Environmental Learning Center, its 64-acre campus, and how they've educated children for 39 years.  "Hands On, Feet Wet" is how the ELC teaches kids about the Indian River Lagoon and our surrounding environment.  Summer Camps begin June 1st.  Adult Programs continue year-round, with yoga, pilates, and walking meditation on the 4th Sunday of every month.  Get details online at Discoverelc.org.

We're also joined by Henry Szmyt of the Fort PIerce Jazz & Blues Society, a group dedicated to musicians.  They perform at the Fort Pierce Farmer's Marke...

We speak with the amazing Mike Block about how he fell in love with music, how he got connected to Vero Beach, and how his scholarship got started.  We discuss his invention, the Block Strap, to help cello players.  His wife is Scottish National Fiddle Champion Hanneke Cassel, and together they're playing in concert this Friday, April 24th at First Presbyterian Church in Vero Beach.  He's also hosting the Mike Block String Camp on the second week of July.  Details and schedules can be found online at MikeBlockMusic.com , MikeBlockStringCamp.com , VeroBeachInternationalMusicFestival.com & Vero.show

The Executive Director of Brevard Cultural Alliance, Catherine Esrock, joins us to talk about what's happening in the arts in Brevard County. The Brevard Community Orchestra closes the King Center's 72nd Season with Dan Forrest’s uplifting and cinematic Creation. And we talk about the Melbourne Arts Festival on April 25 & 26. You can find details at ArtsBrevard.org.

And we speak with Aaron Collins, music director of the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra. The public is invited to a rehearsal on April 23rd for a unique symphonic experience, Sunny Bohemia, with performances scheduled for April 25 & 26. The new season will be announce...

Chrissy Barber and Pamela Londono join the show to talk about the events at Vero Beach Museum of Art, including the Children's Art Festival, Saturday April 11th from 10am-3pm.  There will be a plethora of art making activities for kids and families, local group performances, food trucks and face painting.  We get an update on the construction and we talk about the Summer Class sign ups for classes which start on June 1st.  Membership opportunities are available at VBMuseum.org

We alsp speak with Tom Fitz of Schoolyard Films about his fascinating career as a nature film cam...

From Ballet Vero Beach, dancer Ellie Hennequin joins the show to tell us about "Allusions and Allegories" April 10th and 11th as well as the Gathering at the Gallery at Windsor where you can meet the dancers April 15th.  We ask Ellie how she went from England to being involved with Ballet Vero Beach, and how dancers like her stay in shape.  Tickets and details of events are online at BalletVeroBeach.org

We then speak with two cast members of "9 to 5: The Musical."  Kathlynn Rodin plays Doraleen (the Dolly Parton character) and Ken Sandberg plays Mr. Hart (the bos...

J. Marshall Adams, the Executive Director of the A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery, was kind enough to join us for two segments.  We discuss how the Backus Museum's amazing commitment to Florida artists.  Everyone is excited for "Collage Mirage: the Art of Derek Gores" now through April 26th.  Willi marvels at the incredible Museum store which supports their non-profit mission.  We announce a Call to Artists for the 31st Annual Juried Photography Show.  And we discuss a new Highwaymen Museum in Fort Pierce, at 1234 Avenue D.  Details can be found at BackusMuseum.org

JoAnn Falletta, conducting the Buffalo Philharmonic for IRSA, talks about her background in music and the coming concert at Community Church.

Sean Sexton describes what to expect at the Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundation's 15th Annual Poetry and BBQ event with guest poets from the very first event, Silvia Curbelo and Michael Hettich.

Music Angels benefit is being performed by Larry Brown and his acoustic jazz band at Majestic Theatre March 25, 2026 7:00 pm
Everyone will want to sit close - think first row - and soak up the band's vibe!

Paulette Visceglia from the Vero Beach Art Club tells us about the 75th edition of the Under the Oaks Fine Art and Craft Show happening this weekend (March 13-15, 2026) at Riverside Park in Vero Beach.  This is a juried art show ith over 230 artists displaying their works.  Willi and Paulette discuss the beginnings of the Art Club, how it was formed 90 years ago, and their classes and open gallery at 1903 14th Avenue in Vero Beach.

Next we speak with Katherine Eppink of Ballet Vero Beach about her yound son, Henry, as well as the Ballet's upcoming shows.  Ballet Und...

We're joined by Tim Sanchez and Warren Obluck inviting us to see Reconstructed Paintings, a unique showcase of Tim’s artwork, through April at Center for Spiritual Care, with a reception on April 3rd.  Discover details at Centerforspiritualcare.org

Kristal Eckhardt  then joins the show to tell us about the A.C.T. Studio Theatre, an intimate theatre in Stuart where you can see "Beehive The 60's Musical" March 13 through 29.   April get ready for “6 RMS RIV VU."  Tickets and details are online at actstudiotheatre.com

We speak with Pamela Londono and Katherine Eppink about "Made in America," two special performances of new dance works by Ballet Vero Beach, inspired by the art on display at Vero Beach Museum of Art, February 28. 
Londono, public programs manager at VBMA, tells us about the upcoming appearance of CBS Sunday Morning's Conor Knighton, who has visitied every National Park, March 9 at 4:30 p.m.. And the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra is performing an interactive concert for kids, "Princess and the Pea," Saturday, March 14. Tickets and details are at VBMuseum.org
Then we explore the world of ballet with a B...

Mark Greaney is an American author. He is known for his Gray Man series of action thriller novels, which feature assassin and CIA operative Court Gentry. Greaney is also known for co-authoring Tom Clancy’s final works and for continuing the Ryanverse after his death in 2013 and until 2017.

We then speak with P.J. Griffith (Pontius Pilate) and Craig Waletzko (King Herod) from Riverside Theatre's production of Jesus Christ Superstar, playing February 26-March 26.  Get tickets at RiversideTheatre.com

Friend of the show, Marcos Flores joins us to talk about the Eight Piano Concert on Sunday, February 15th at Christ by the Sea United Methodist Church in Vero Beach. We talk about how they actually fit eight pianos on stage and we discuss other concerts coming in the near future.    

We then speak with P.J. Griffith (Pontius Pilate) and Craig Waletzko (King Herod) from Riverside Theatre's production of Jesus Christ Superstar, playing February 26-March 26.  Get tickets at RiversideTheatre.com

Chrissy Barber and Pam Londono join us to tell us about the Vero Beach Museum of Art and its Open House on February 14th.  You can be part of a community project by bringing a fabric that's red, white or blue.  Admission is free that day from 10am-4pm, and registration will be open for Springtime classes and workshops.  Details can be found online at VBMuseum.org

We then speak with Nancy Turrell, Executive Director of Martin Arts.  Arts Fest is this weekend, February 7th and 8th in downtown Stuart, with about 80 artists on display, music, clinary competitions, and...

Local painter Leslie Stokes joins the show and we talk about her new paintings to be featured at the Center for Spiritual Care during February 2026.  Her show, "Mirage," features her abstract art as an ode to Florida's disappearing landscape.  It opens with a reception February 6, 5-7 p.m., and runs weekends through February 27, at the Center for Spiritual Care, 1550 24th St., Vero Beach.

We then speak with Michael Naffziger, Executive Director of the Theatrical Learning Center (TLC) at Vero Beach Theatre Guild, and Artistic Director at Indian River Charter High School.  TLC at the Theatre Guild includes classes for...

Chief Curator of Vero Beach Museum of Art, Caitlin Swindell and Deputy Director Suzanne Seldes tell us about the American Made exhibition featuring paintings and sculptures dating as far back as 1780.  It runs January 31st to June 7th.  We also get an update on the construction and the upcoming 40th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, February 14th with free entry from 10am-3pm. Details can be found online at vbmuseum.org

We also speak with Jennifer Hearn, Senior Program Manager of Martin Arts.  The 35th Annual All Florida Juried Art Show is happening now thru February 28th.  And Arts Fest...

We speak with Gregory Enns, publisher of Indian River Magazine and author of the new book, "Cow Creek Chronicles" which can be purchased online at IndianRiverMagazine.com.
And also joining us is David Amado, music director and conductor of Atlantic Classical Orchestra.  Performances are scheduled for January 22nd at Community Church of Vero Beach and January 23rd at Lyric Theatre. Tickets and details can be found at AtlanticClassicalOrchestra.com.