Arts Blast on the Air with Willi Miller

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.orgWe'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 create the amazing shell-finding experience on Sanibel, and how they've bounced back from Hurricane Ian.  You can sign up for a newsletter and watch archived online lectures for free at shellmuseum.org       

7/15/26 • 25:14

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 exhibits online at VBMuseum.org.We also speak with Cathleen Sullivan of Treasure Coast Pottery.  She started working with clay in 2003 and has fallen in love.  Now, Treasure Coast Pottery teaches classes ranging from acryllic pottery to ceramics to gingerbread house making and vessel decoration.  Their studio is located off US1 between Kitterman and Prima Vista in Port St Lucie.  Book a class online at TreasureCoastPottery.com. Cathleen is excited to announce the Community Through Art Exhibition at the Mid Florida Event Center, with an opening reception on July 23 from 6-8pm. The exhibitt runs through August 31st.  Find out more at TreasureCoastPottery.com. 

7/8/26 • 25:04

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.orgLeslie 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 this area the most famous citrus district in the world. We're also excited for the Colonial Costume Ball, as part of the local USA All Day Festivities.  You're encouraged to dress up in 1176 costume (although you do not have to) and enjoy fife and drum music, learn colonial era dances, and food and drink is included with your affordable ticket, and there will be a cash bar.  The costume ball is Friday, July 3rd at 6pm at the Heritage Center.  Find details at VeroHeritage.org and covb.org     

7/1/26 • 25:03

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 high schol kids. Donate and learn more online at BluebirdEducationalFoundation.org

6/24/26 • 24:59

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.comLauren 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 to 800 animals, offers feeding and kayak tours, the Treetop Trek, and more. The "Red White & Zoo" event is June 26th from 6-10 p.m., with live entertainment. Memberships and tickets are available online at BrevardZoo.com   

6/17/26 • 25:02

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 "The Boomerang" a.k.a. "The Auto Elevator" a.k.a. "The Vending Machine" which lets YOU control which antique car is on display at any time. Sign up for the newsletter, see schedules, and discover more online at hsmc-fl.com    

6/10/26 • 24:53

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!      

6/3/26 • 24:54

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.comMartin 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 accomplished artist for more than 50 years, Jane is most known for her acryllic abstract seascapes.  She has also created a short documentary called "Wisdom of the Waves.” Find out more online at MartinArtisansGuild.org and at ArtSpeaks.com. 

5/28/26 • 25:07

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.orgSara 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 can find out more online at lrjf.org 

5/20/26 • 25:02

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.

5/13/26 • 24:59

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.orgRob Steele joins us by phone to discuss the Historical Society of Martin County, the new and exciting things happening at the Elliott Museum and the House of Refuge Museum in Stuart, which is re-opening this month.  Find details at hsmc-fl.com 

5/6/26 • 25:14

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 Market Saturday mornings, along with three other local venues: the Sunrise Theatre Black Box (November through April), the Fort Pierce Yacht Club (during the summer), and the Port St Lucie Botanical Gardens (Year-round).  Discover more online at JazzSociety.org.   

4/29/26 • 25:09

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

4/22/26 • 25:05

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 announced May 2nd. Details at SpaceCoastSymphonyOrchestra.org

4/15/26 • 25:08

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.orgWe alsp speak with Tom Fitz of Schoolyard Films about his fascinating career as a nature film cameraman, who has filmed in all five oceans and on all seven continents.  Today his project, Schoolyard Films, produces films that inspire young people in 172 countries.  See Tom as he speaks about “Sea Change: The Future of Our Oceans” in a compelling and interactive llive show on April 21st at Maltz Jupiter Theatre.  Find details at Schoolyardfilms.org  

4/8/26 • 25:02

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.orgWe 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 boss).  We learn about ken and Kathlynn's acting origins, how they build chemistry and what might be next on the horizon for these two talented actors. "9 to 5: The Musical" plays April 16th through May 10th.  Tickets are online at RiversideTheatre.com.    

4/1/26 • 25:05

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

3/25/26 • 25:10

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.

3/18/26 • 25:13

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

3/18/26 • 11:31

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 Under the Stars is already sold out but you can enjoy the new gala event, Gathering at the Gallery, at Windsor on April 15th.  And of course, don't miss "Composer's Notebook: David Homan" on March 20th and 21st, featuring Ariel Grossman's sweeping Ori (a BVB signature).  See the main stage return of the iconic reimagined "Firebird," an accessible, family-friendly perfomance on March 22 at 2pm. And catch a world premiere by Artistic Director Adam Schnell: Ribbons.  For tickets and details, visit BalletVeroBeach.org. 

3/11/26 • 24:59

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.orgKristal 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  

3/4/26 • 25:01

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.orgThen we explore the world of ballet with a BVB principal dancer, Katherine Eppink, who tells us what dancers have to do to prepare on a daily basis, what happens when a dancer forgets a move, and going to school for dancing. Discover more information about "Made in America" and all of the upcoming shows at BalletVeroBeach.org.    

2/25/26 • 25:04

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 

2/19/26 • 25:51

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 

2/11/26 • 25:04

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.orgWe 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 a hidden turtle scavenger hunt.  Admission is just $5 and there's plenty of free parking.  Details can be found at MartinArts.org

2/4/26 • 24:59

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 kids and adults in acting and directing.  Michael even breaks news about the Cube, a brand new theatre venue unlike any other opening in August.

1/28/26 • 25:03

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.orgWe 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 is coming soon, February 7th and 8th.  Details can be found online at MartinArts.org    

1/21/26 • 24:55

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.  

1/14/26 • 25:07

Camilo A. Rodriguez (with his dog Frankie) stopped by to tell us about Ballet Vero Beach's presentation of "All Rodriguez," a performance of three full dances he choreographed. Rodriguez is the company’s Ballet Master as well as a principal dancer.  Don't miss it, January 16th and 17th at the Vero Beach Performing Arts Center.  Get tickets at BalletVeroBeach.org.We then speak with Linda Sposato, founder of the Music Angels Education Fund, providing instruments for area children who may otherwise not be able to afford them.  Through music, Music Angels instills confidence and self-esteem in the children served. See the performance on Thursday, January 15th at the Heritage Center in Vero Beach.  Details are online at MusicAngelsUSA.org.    

1/7/26 • 25:12

Author Brad Meltzer joins us by phone to talk about some of his books, including his newest book "The Viper," his thriller "The Tenth Justice," and his children's book series, "Ordinary People Change the World."  You can meet Brad Meltzer at his book signing on Saturday, January 10th, 2026, at 12pm noon, at Vero Beach Book Center.Barry Shapiro joins us in studio to talk about the very successful Treasure Coast Sock Drive.  They're aiming to collect 20,000 pairs of socks for people experiencing homelessness.  With 70 collection boxes from Sebastian to Port St Lucie and a website where you can donate instantly, he's made it easier than ever to donate socks.  Visit TreasureCoastSockDrive.com  We also take a minute to talk about his artwork which can be found at ShapiroStudioArt.net

12/31/25 • 25:09