In my conversation with Jeremy Kisling we talk about the importance of creating a sense of belonging for young people at the Lexington Children's Theatre. Jeremy emphasizes the universal need for all individuals to find spaces where they can be authentic and free from societal expectations. The discussion also explores the role of theatre in personal development, community engagement and the future vision for the theatre's impact on youth. We also talk about the evolution of themes for young people and the substances of contemporary theatre for youth.
The Lexington Children's Theatre has been in existence for 87 years, Jeremy having been there for 24 of those years.
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He has been a recipient of the Sara Spencer child Drama Award and the Tom Behm Award from the Southeastern Theatre Conference.
In 1986 The state legislators demed Lexington Children's Theatre the State children's Theatre of Kentucky.

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Joe Farrell, veteran director with a distinguished 60-year career, and actor Joe Gatton, well-known in the Lexington theater scene, join host Kate Savage to discuss their upcoming production of Conor McPherson’s "The Weir" at the Antagonist Theatre. The conversation explores the play’s haunting Irish folklore, its setting in a rural pub where ghost stories are shared to impress—and ultimately reveal—the inner lives of the characters. Joe Farrell and Joe Gatton reflect on their collaboration, the thrill of working in an intimate 60-seat space, and the challenges and joys of recreating Irish accents and atmosphere. The cast and creative team’s deep connection to the material promises a riveting and cathartic experience for Lexington audiences. Tickets are available online through Antagonist Productions, and listeners are encouraged not to miss this nuanced exploration of loneliness, vulnerability, and grace.

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Dr. Vicki Bell, Professor of Music Theory at Asbury University, and Dr. Stephen Bolster, retired Chair of Music at Berea College, join host Kate Savage to share their story as newly appointed co-artistic directors of the Kentucky Bach Choir. Vicki and Stephen recount decades of collaboration, their combined musical backgrounds, and the unique advantages of co-directing a choir—such as sharing responsibilities, blending their skill sets, and diversifying the group's leadership. They discuss the upcoming Bachtoberfest fundraiser at West Sixth Barrel Room, which blends German food, drinks, and music in an effort to attract new, younger audiences, and detail the rigorous audition process and the multi-generational makeup of the choir. Vicki and Stephen explore the enduring influence of Bach, the choir’s mission to keep his works alive, connections to other composers, and even links to modern pop music. They also preview innovative season events such as the Bach Marathon and plans to support local charities through future performances—all underscoring the central power of music and community in their shared vision.

For more and to connect with us, visit https://www.artsconnectlex.org/art-throb-podcast.html