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Philagrafika 2010 Artist Duke Riley--The Stories Found at Delaware Art Museum--Rooftop Murals Artist Stephen Powers February 5, 2010
Jim Cotter speaks with Duke Riley. His installation, Reclaiming the Lost Kingdom of Laird, is on view at the Pennsylvania Historical Society, as part of the Philadelphia Philagrafika 2010 festival.

Susan Lewis explores the Delaware Art Museum, which uses art to both tell and inspire stories.

We take a ride on the El in West Philadelphia with artist Stephen Powers. He's just completed Love Letter, a series of 50 rooftop murals. wrti
Stars and Creators of Let's Pretend We're Married at Prince Music Theater--Philagrafika 2010--Wicked Philadelphia and the Story of 19th-Century Occultist George Lippard January 29, 2010
Jim Cotter speaks with Jennifer Childs and Tony Braithwaite. Let’s Pretend We’re Married, the hit show they created for 1812 Productions, returns to the Prince Music Theater in Philadelphia. It will run from February 2 to 14th.

Susan Lewis considers Philagrafika 2010, a Philadelphia-wide international art show celebrating the role of the print in contemporary art.

And as part of a companion series to a new book called Wicked Philadelphia, Tom Keels tells the story of the 19th-century occultist George Lippard. wrti
Interview with Two Philadelphia Orchestra Principal Players--Philadelphia Theatre Company's Golden Age--A Medical Anthropologist's Creative Cure for Healing War Veterans--PRISM Quartet's 25th Anniversary January 23, 2010
Jim Cotter speaks with Philadelphia Orchestra principal harp Elizabeth Hainen, and principal cello Hai-Ye Ni. Both are soloists in upcoming concerts under Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos.

Susan Lewis takes us to the Golden Age, a new play by Terrence McNally. The Philadelphia Theater Company production premieres January 22.

Jim Cotter speaks with Gala True, a Veterans Administration medical anthropologist studying the use of story telling techniques found in folklore and oral history projects, to help heal Afghan and Iraq war veterans.

David Patrick Stearns profiles PRISM Quartet. The all-saxophone group, celebrating its 25th anniversary, has built a repertoire of more than 100 pieces. wrti
River North Chicago Dance Company's Artistic Director--Time for Three's New CD--Wicked Philadelphia--Video Art Exhibition at ICA January 15, 2010
Jim Cotter speaks with Frank Chaves, Artistic Director of River North Chicago Dance Company. The company is performing in Philadelphia this week as part of a tour celebrating its 20th anniversary season.

David Patrick Stearns reviews the latest recording by the trio Time for Three, and speaks with the group.

In the second part of a companion series to a new book called Wicked Philadelphia, Tom Keels tells the story of the 19th-century occultist George Lippard.

Susan Lewis considers the nature of video art, as the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia opens an exhibition exploring animation. It's the second of a three-part, year-long examination of this modern medium. wrti
Composer Jennifer Higdon on Re-Mastered CD of The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band--Friend or Faux at Rosenbach Museum--New Book About The Impact of Starbucks on American Society January 9, 2010
We listen back as David Patrick Stearns explores the digitally remastered CD of the Beatles' Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band with composer Jennifer Higdon. Higdon cites the Beatles as a major influence on her work.

Susan Lewis visits Friend or Faux, an exhibition at the Rosenbach Museum and Library in Philadelphia exploring the value of copies and forgeries.

Jim Cotter speaks with Temple University professor Bryant Simon. His new book examines the socio-economic impact of Starbucks and what the global cafe chain says about community, status, and personal identity in contemporary America. wrti
A History of Philadelphia's 'Perfect Square'--Secret Lenape Ancestry at Penn Museum--Independence Seaport Museum's Skin & Bones--Philadelphia's Mischianza December 29, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Nancy M. Heinzen about her recently published history of Rittenhouse Square, The Perfect Square.

Susan Lewis takes us to Penn Museum's exhibition about generations of Pennsylvanians who kept their Lenape identity secret for two centuries.

Jason Peifer delves into the history of tattoos and body art with a visit to an exhibition at the Independence Seaport Museum.

As part of a series exploring overlooked events in local history, Tom Keels reports on the Mischianza - a citywide party held in Philadelphia during the American War of Independence, in honor of a British army general. wrti
Creatively Speaking 2009: A Year in Review December 26, 2009
We look back at the past year in the arts in our region, and bring you the highlights of the news, issues, and events, and the people who made them happen.

We've witnessed great performances and exhibitions, and rediscovered so many great perennial treasures. It's also been a year of change and surprises!

It's 2009 in Review on Creatively Speaking. wrti
Philadelphia Orchestra's Final Concerts with Double Bassist Emilio Gravagno--Arschile Gorky Retrospective at PMA--A Visit to Penn Treaty Park December 17, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Emilio Gravagno. The veteran double bassist plays his final concerts as a member of The Philadelphia Orchestra this week.

Susan Lewis visits the Philadelphia Museum of Art's retrospective on the 20th-century artist Arshile Gorky, whose work is seen as a bridge between surrealism and abstract expressionism.

Tom Keels takes us to Penn Treaty Park. The site celebrates a late 17th-century agreement between William Penn and local Native Americans that made possible the founding of Pennsylvania. wrti
Walker Plays Walker With The Philadelphia Orchestra--Phoenixville's Firebird Festival--Temple Courses Encourage Arts Discovery December 11, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with the celebrated American composer George Walker. The Philadelphia Orchestra premieres his violin concerto this week with Gregory Walker, the composer's son, as soloist.

Susan Lewis previews weekend festivities in Phoenixville. Its annual Firebird Festival is a celebration of rebirth.

And we speak with Temple University's director of general education Terry Halbert. New Gen-Ed programs are bringing thousands of students into arts and culture venues throughout Philadelphia. wrti
Conductor Yannick Nezet Seguin--Local Offerings in Family Theater--New Book About History of Rittenhouse Square December 3, 2009
David Patrick Stearns speaks with Yannick Nezet Seguin, who is, at least for now, the conductor most likely to be The Philadelphia Orchestra's next music director.

Susan Lewis explores local offerings in family theater, and discusses different approaches to the form at the Arden, People's Light, and Lantern theaters.

Jim Cotter speaks with Nancy M. Heinzen. Her history of Rittenhouse Square - The Perfect Square - has just been published by Temple University Press. wrti
Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia's New Music Director--Friend or Faux at Rosenbach--NYC Composer Julia Wolfe November 21, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Dirk Brossé, the newly appointed music director of the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia.

Susan Lewis visits Friend or Faux, an exhibiton at the Rosenbach Museum and Library in Philadelphia exploring the value of copies and forgeries.

Downtown Manhattan composer Julia Wolfe has released an outlandish new album and has a major new work premiering this Saturday at Carnegie Hall. David Patrick Stearns finds out how a girl from Montgomeryville got from here to there. wrti
Opera Company of Philadelphia's Robert Driver--Philadelphia Brahms Festival--Renaissance Band Piffaro Upcoming Concerts November 13, 2009
As part of WRTI's "A Day at The Opera," Jim Cotter speaks with Opera Company of Philadelphia Artistic Director Robert Driver about National Opera Week. It celebrates the vitality of the art form as a contemporary cultural expression.

Susan Lewis looks ahead to Saturday's Philadelphia Brahms Festival - three concerts in one day by young musicians from the Astral Artists roster.

Jim Cotter speaks with Joan Kimball and Robert Wiemken, co-founders of Piffaro. The Renaissance band performs music of 17th-century Portugal in a series of concerts this weekend with the Choral Arts Society of Philadelphia. wrti
Stage Director Tito Capobianco at AVA--The Mischianza of 1778--Ellen B.T. Pyle Show at Delaware Art Museum--Temple Bringing Students to Cultural Venues November 7, 2009
David Patrick Stearns looks ahead to an Academy of Vocal Arts production of Verdi's Falstaff with the legendary Met Opera stage director Tito Capobianco at the helm.

In the first of a year-long exploration of overlooked events in local history, Tom Keels explores the Mischianza - a city-wide party held in Philadelphia during the American War of Independence.

Susan Lewis visits a Delaware Art Museum exhibition exploring the art of Ellen B.T. Pyle, a popular cover artist for The Saturday Evening Post during the '20s and '30s.

We speak with Temple's director of general education Terry Halbert. New Gen-Ed programs are bringing thousands of students into local arts and culture venues. wrti
Virtual Tour of Barnes Foundation's New Home--Society Hill Playhouse at 50--Interview with Artist Jamie Wyeth November 25, 2009
As the Barnes Foundation begins construction on its new home on the Ben Franklin Parkway, we take a virtual tour of the new building with its creators.

Susan Lewis profiles Society Hill Playhouse in Philadelphia. Founded in 1959 to showcase modern theater, it celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year.

And we listen back to a recent interview with the artist Jamie Wyeth. His series of paintings exploring the "Seven Deadly Sins" are now on view at the Brandywine River Museum. wrti
Interview with Curator of Iraq's Ancient Past at Penn Museum--Controversial Italian Conductor Daniele Gatti--20th Century American Artist Arshile Gorky Retrospective at PMA October 24, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Richard Zettler, the co-curator of Iraq's Ancient Past: Rediscovering Ur's Royal Cemetery, a new exhibition opening on October 25th at the Penn Museum.

David Patrick Sterns profiles the controversial Italian conductor Daniele Gatti. He leads the Philadelphia Orchestra in a series of concerts this week.

Susan Lewis explores the Philadelphia Museum of Art's new retrospective on 20th-century American artist Arshile Gorky, whose work was a bridge between surrealism and abstract expressionism. wrti
A Conversation with Philadelphia Orchestra Principal Bassoon Daniel Matsukawa--Bach's Brandenberg Concertos Performed by Tempesta di Mare--Philadelphia's American Swedish Historical Museum October 17, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with The Philadelphia Orchestra's Principal Bassoon Daniel Matsukawa. He's the soloist this week for performances of Mozart's Bassoon Concerto at the Kimmel Center.

Susan Lewis considers performances of Bach's Brandenburg Concertos by Tempesta di Mare, the Philadelphia-based Baroque orchestra.

Jason Peifer explores Philadelphia's Swedish origins with a visit to the American Swedish Historical Museum. wrti
The Art of Jun Kaneko--Composer Michael Hersch--Everything but the Coffee Author Bryant Simon October 7, 2009
Susan Lewis considers the art of Jun Kaneko, whose costumes and sets are featured in Madama Butterfly, the Opera Company of Philadelphia's latest production. Kaneko's sculptures are on view in four different venues around the city.

David Patrick Stearns speaks with Michael Hersch. The Philadelphia-based composer has a world-premiere performance of an evening-length work for French horn and cello coming up, and a CD of his cello sonatas being released soon.

Jim Cotter speaks with Temple University professor Bryant Simon. His new book examines the socio-economic impact of Starbucks, and what the global café chain says about community, status, and personal identity in contemporary America. wrti
Interview with New President of Philadelphia Orchestra Allison Vulgamore--Pianist Di Wu--All About the Mutter Museum September 30, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Allison Vulgamore. The Philadelphia Orchestra's newly appointed president and CEO is scheduled to begin in her new post no later that February, 2010.

David Patrick Stearns profiles pianist Di Wu. The rising star is in recital in Philadelphia this weekend.

Susan Lewis explores Philadelphia's 150-year-old Mutter Museum - renowned for its specimens of medical pathologies - and the Museum's home, The College of Physicians of Philadelphia. wrti
Charles Dutoit on Philadephia Orchestra's New Season--Skyscrapers Exhibition at PMA--Philadelphia Theatre Company's Humor Abuse September 24, 2009
As The Philadelphia Orchestra opens its new season we speak with Chief Conductor Charles Dutoit about the music he’s conducting this week.

Susan Lewis takes us to an exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art exploring the impact of Skyscrapers on artists of the 20th century.

And we speak with circus performer-turned actor Lorenzo Pisoni. His Obie-winning one-man show Humor Abuse is the the Philadelphia Theatre Company's season opener. wrti
Interview with Artist Jamie Wyeth -- Joseph Haydn's Life and Music -- Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra Music Director Jeri Lynn Johnson -- The Return of the NJ State Opera September 19, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with the artist Jamie Wyeth. His series of paintings exploring the "Seven Deadly Sins," is the basis of a new exhibition at the Brandywine River Museum.

Susan Lewis explores the life and music of Joseph Haydn, considered the father of the symphony and the string quartet. The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia opens its season this weekend with an all-Haydn program.


Jim Cotter speaks with Jeri Lynn Johnson, music director of the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra whose inaugural season opening concert takes place this weekend at the Kimmel Center.

David Patrick Stearns reviews the return of the long-on-hiatus New Jersey State Opera at the Great Auditorium in Ocean Grove, NJ. wrti
Interview with Curator of New Marcel Duchamp Exhibition at PMA -- Video Art Show at ICA -- Composer Jennifer Higdon on Re-Mastered CD of The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band September 12, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Michael Taylor, curator of Marcel Duchamp: Étant donnés, a new exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum hosts two educational events on the work this weekend.

Susan Lewis considers the nature of video art as the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia opens a year-long exhibition showcasing that medium.

David Patrick Stearns listens with composer Jennifer Higdon to a newly issued, digitally re-mastered CD of the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Higdon cites The Beatles as a major influence on her work. wrti
Timothy Rub, new director and CEO of the Philadelphia Museum of Art--The Ephrata Cloister in Lancaster County, one of America's earliest religious communities-- visit to the Philadelphia Zoo as it celebrates its 150th year September 5, 2009

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Adventures in Modern Art at PMA--Musicians from Reading Terminal Market--Simeone Foundation Museum--History of Free Library of Philadelphia August 27, 2009
Jim Cotter takes a walk through Adventures in Modern Art: The Charles K. Williams II Collection, at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and speaks with its organizer Innis Shoemaker.

David Patrick Stearns profiles the very talented pianists who perform daily at Philadelphia's Reading Terminal Market.

Jason Peifer takes us to the Simeone Foundation Museum, home to a world-class collection of historic sports and race cars.

Susan Lewis looks at the history and evolution of the Free Library of Philadelphia. wrti
An Interview with Award-Winning Author of Books about the Amish Cindy Woodsmall -- Spectacles and Skyscrapers at PMA -- Fulton Opera House in Lancaster August 22, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with author Cindy Woodsmall, a preeminent writer of Amish fiction - one of the fastest growing literary genres.

Jason Peifer explores the rich history of the Fulton Opera House in Lancaster, Pennsylvania - the nation's oldest continuously operating theater.

Susan Lewis looks at skyscrapers and spectacles - the subjects of two summertime exhibitions drawn from the Philadelphia Museum of Art's collection of prints, photography, and works on paper. wrti
Interview with Curator of New Marcel Duchamp Exhibition at PMA -- American Swedish Historical Museum -- National Constitution Center's Into the Open Exhibition August 14, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Michael Taylor, the curator of Marcel Duchamp: Étant donnés, a new exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The artist Jasper Johns described Étant donnés as "the strangest work of art in any museum."

Jason Peifer explores Philadelphia's Swedish origins with a visit to the American Swedish Historical Museum.

Susan Lewis takes us to an exhibition at the National Constitution Center that explores the ways American architects are using recycled materials to address social issues. wrti
An Interview with Pianist Christopher O'Riley--Hopewell Furnace--Napoleon Exhibition at National Constitution Center August 5, 2009
We listen back to Jim Cotter's interview with pianist and broadcaster Christopher O'Riley. His latest CD will release on August 18th.

Jason Peifer explores Hopewell Furnace. The colonial era "iron plantation" - now a National Historic Landmark - recreates the business, technology, and lifestyle of America's nascent industrial age.

Susan Lewis explores the "French connection" between America and the Emperor of early 19th-century France in an exhibition on Napoleon at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. wrti
New Director of Philadelphia Museum of Art Timothy Rub -- Illustrator Ellen B.T. Pyle's Work at Delaware Art Museum--Renovation of Alfred I. duPont's Nemours Mansion and Gardens July 30, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Timothy Rub. The Philadelphia Museum of Art's new director and CEO will take up his position in mid to late September.

Susan Lewis visits the Delaware Art Museum, where a new show explores the art of Ellen B.T. Pyle, a popular cover artist for The Saturday Evening Post of the 1920s and '30s.

Jason Peifer visits the Nemours Mansion and Gardens in Wilmington, Delaware. The 300-acre estate was home to the industrialist and philanthropist Alfred I. duPont and recently completed a $39 million restoration. wrti
Archival Interview with Author Frank McCourt--Simeone Foundation Museum--Village of Arts and Humanities--Germantown's History Hunters July 22, 2009
We listen back to Jim Cotter's 2008 interview with Frank McCourt. The acclaimed author died on Sunday, July 19th, 2009 at age 78.

Jason Peifer takes us to the Simeone Foundation Museum, home to a world-class collection of historic sports and race cars.

Susan Lewis visits North Philadelphia's Village of Arts and Humanities, which evolved from the creation of art parks on abandoned lots into a community-based arts program.

Tom Keels explores the cooperation between historic sites in the Germantown section of Philadelphia and the local school districts that have made thousands of students into "History Hunters." wrti
Architectural Groups on Sustainability and Civic Engagement at National Constitution Center--PA Guild of Craftsman--Opera Stars Eileen Perez and Stephen Costello with Ocean City Pops July 18, 2009
Susan Lewis looks at a new exhibition at the National Constitution Center exploring the ways American architects are using recycled materials to address social issues.

Jason Peifer explores the role and history of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsman, a 65-year-old organization dedicated to preserving and promoting fine crafts. Their Pennsylvania Guild Fine Craft Fair is on July 25th and 26th in Wilmington.

David Patrick Stearns looks ahead to a performance with the Ocean City Pops by husband and wife opera stars Eileen Perez and Stephen Costello. wrti
Painter Elizabeth Osbourne at PAFA--Philadelphia Theatre Company's The City of Nutterly Love--Out on a Limb at Morris Arboretum July 8, 2009
We listen again to Jim Cotter's interview with Elizabeth Osborne. Her work is the subject of The Color of Light, an exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

Jason Peifer previews The City of Nutterly Love: Funny as Bell! A new review by the world-famous Second City comedy company at the Philadelphia Theatre Company opens this week.

Tom Keels takes us Out on a limb - a new installation at the Morris Arboretum takes audiences on a journey through the tree tops. wrti
Debuts of Curtis Students with Philadelphia Orchestra--Skyscapers and Spectacles at PMA--Ephrata Cloister--Artist Patrick Dougherty's Tree Branch Sculpture at Morris Arboreteum June 24, 2009
David Patrick Stearns speaks with Curtis Institute of Music students making debuts as concerto soloists with The Philadelphia Orchestra this summer.

Susan Lewis looks at skyscrapers and spectacles - the subjects of two summertime exhibitions drawn from the Philadelphia Museum of Art's collection of prints, photography, and works on paper.

Jason Peifer visits the Ephrata Cloister in Lancaster County, one of America's earliest religious communities and a National Historic Landmark.

Jim Cotter visits Morris Arboretum artist-in-residence Patrick Dougherty. Last April, Jim spoke with him as he worked on a now-completed sculpture of interwoven tree branches, twigs and saplings. wrti
Painter Elizabeth Osbourne at PAFA--A Visit to Winterthur Museum--Hidden City Philadelphia Arts Festival June 18, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Elizabeth Osborne. The veteran painter is the subject of The Color of Light, a new exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

Susan Lewis visits the Brandywine Valley's Winterthur Museum and Country Estate, the former home of collector and horticulturalist Henry Francis DuPont.

And Jason Peifer visits the Hidden City Philadelphia Arts Festival. The month-long event brings performing and visual art to historic architectural gems in the Philadelphia area. wrti
French-Canadian Actor Yves Jacques--Philadelphia's Swedish Origins--Community-Based Public Art in North Philly--Mendelssohn Club's Performance by Pullitzer Prize-Winning Composer David Lang June 11, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with French-Canadian actor Yves Jacques. He stars in the East Coast premiere of Robert Lepage’s latest one-man show, The Andersen Project.

Jason Peifer explores Philadelphia's Swedish origins with a visit to the American Swedish Historical Museum.

Susan Lewis explores the power of community-based public art in a newly completed Fairmount Park Art Association project in North Philadelphia.

David Patrick Stearns previews a world-premiere performance by the Mendelssohn Club, at the Philadelphia Armory, of a work by the Pulitzer Prize-winning composer David Lang. wrti
Philadelphia Singers' David Hayes--Secret Lenape Ancestry at Penn Museum--Opera Company's The Rape of Lucretia--Independence Seaport Museum's Skin & Bones June 2, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Philadelphia Singers Music Director David Hayes. His group is hosting the Chorus America Conference - the annual gathering of choirs and choral groups from around the country.

Susan Lewis takes us to the Penn Museum's exhibition about generations of Pennsylvanians who kept their Lenape identity secret for two centuries.

David Patrick Stearns previews the latest production from the Opera Company of Philadelphia. Baritone Nathan Gunn and tenor William Burden star in Benjamin Brittens’ The Rape of Lucretia.

Jason Peifer delves into the history of tattoos and body art with a visit to the Independence Seaport Museum's Skin & Bones exhibition. wrti
Alfred I. duPont Mansion Renovation--National Constitution Center Unveils Napoleon Exhibition--German Violinist Isabelle Faust--Stars of Let's Pretend We're Married May 28, 2009
Jason Peifer visits the Nemours Mansion and Gardens in Wilmington, DE.  The 300-acre estate was home to the industrialist and philanthropist Alfred I. duPont and recently completed a $39 million restoration.

As the National Constitution Center opens its new show on Napoleon, Susan Lewis explores the "French connection" between America and the Emperor of early 19th century France.

David Patrick Stearns profiles Isabelle Faust. The German violinist performs the Brahms Violin concerto in concerts with The Philadelphia Orchestra this week.

And we speak with Jennifer Childs and Tony Braithwaite. They created and star in the cabaret Let’s Pretend We’re Married, the latest from 1812 Productions.
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Maestro David Robertson--Possible Cutbacks in PA Arts & Culture Funding--Tradition of Handcrafted Metalwork in Philadelphia May 20, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with David Robertson. The Music Director of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra conducts The Philadelphia Orchestra in three concerts this week.

As Pennsylvania lawmakers work on the state budget, WRTI's Susan Lewis looks at how the Commonwealth funds arts and culture, and the possible consequences of threatened cutbacks.

Jason Peifer explores the rich tradition of handcrafted metalwork in Philadelphia, as the Philadelphia Museum of Art opens Wrought and Crafted: Jewelry and Metalwork 1900 to the Present and the Society of North American Goldsmiths meets in town this week.

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The Crossing's Month of Moderns--Annual Juried Show at Woodmere Art Museum--Kensington's Arts Scene--Penn Treaty Park May 14, 2009
David Patrick Stearns previews The Month of Moderns - a series of concerts by the chamber choir The Crossing.

Susan Lewis explores the Woodmere Art Museum's 69th Annual Juried Exhibition.

We have two reports from the Kensington section of Philadelphia:

Jason Peifer previews this weekend's Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby in Philadelphia. In conjunction with the Trenton Avenue Arts Festival, the event highlights the growing arts scene in the Kensington neighborhood.

Tom Keels takes us to Penn Treaty Park. The site celebrates a late 17th-century agreement between William Penn and local Native Americans that made possible the founding of Pennsylvania. wrti
The Recording of Kile Smith's Vespers CD--Painted Metaphors at Penn Museum--Photographer Andrea Baldeck May 9, 2009
As composer Kile Smith's Vespers is released on CD, we listen back to David Patrick Stearns report on the recording of the work last summer by Piffaro, the Renaissance wind band, and the virtuoso vocal group The Crossing. A CD-release party is scheduled for Saturday night, May 9th, at Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church after a Piffaro concert.

Jason Peifer visits Painted Metaphors: Pottery and Politics of the Ancient Maya at the Penn Museum in Philadelphia. The exhibition features 1,300-year-old-pottery from the highlands of Guatemala.

Susan Lewis profiles Andrea Baldeck. The much in-demand fine art photographer is currently featured in two exhibitions in the Philadelphia region. wrti
Pennsylvania Ballet's Tango with Style--Landis Valley Museum in Lancaster County--Author Steve Lopez on His Best-Selling Book The Soloist, Now a Major Film May 1, 2009
Susan Lewis considers the variety in ballet today, as Pennsylvania Ballet prepares to open a new program headlined by a work titled Tango with Style.

Jason Peifer visits the Landis Valley Museum in Lancaster County. The "living history" village and farm collects, preserves, and interprets the culture of the Pennsylvania German rural community from 1740 to 1940.

We listen again to Jim Cotter's interview with LA Times writer Steve Lopez. The movie adaptation of his best-selling book The Soloist has been released to critical and popular acclaim. wrti
Artist Thomas Chimes Remembered--Skin & Bones at Independence Seaport Museum--Cezanne and Beyond at PMA--Preview of L'Enfant at les Sortilèges April 22, 2009
We remember Thomas Chimes who died this week at age 88. He was one of Philadelphia's most respected contemporary artists.

Jason Peifer delves into the history of tattoos and body art with a visit to a new exhibition at the Independence Seaport Museum. Skin & Bones explores the beliefs, mysteries, and traditions of the tattoo in American maritime culture.

We listen again as Susan Lewis visits Cezanne and Beyond at The Philadelphia Museum of Art.

The Philadelphia Inquirer's David Patrick Stearns previews the Opera Company of Philadelphia's latest production of Ravel's L'Enfant et les Sortilèges. wrti
Maestro Rossen Milanov--Arden Theatre's 30th World-Premiere Play--Documentary Film about Met Opera Auditions--Free Library of Philadelphia Festival April 16, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Rossen Milanov. He conducts both Camden's Symphony in C with Astral Artists, and The Philadelphia Orchestra in upcoming concerts at the Kimmel Center.

Jason Peifer visits the Arden Theatre as it opens Bruce Graham's Something Intangible, the Arden's 30th world-premiere play. We'll hear about the career of the Philadelphia playwright.

The Philadelphia Inquirer's David Patrick Stearns previews The Audition, a documentary exploring how the Metropolitan Opera finds new talent. The film features AVA artists Angela Meade and Michael Fabiano.

Susan Lewis looks at the evolution of the Free Library of Philadelphia, which hosts its third annual Free Library Festival on April 18 and 19. wrti
Painted Metaphors: Pottery and Politics of the Ancient Maya at Penn Museum--Juxtapose by Jeanne Ruddy Dance--The Elusive Hindemith Piano Concerto--Marian Anderson Historical Residence and Museum April 10, 2009
Jason Peifer visits 'Painted Metaphors: Pottery and Politics of the Ancient Maya' at the Penn Museum. The exhibition features 1,300-year-old pottery from the highlands of Guatemala.

Susan Lewis looks at 'Juxtapose,' a new program by Phila.'s contemporary dance company, Jeanne Ruddy Dance. It features a premiere by world-renowned choreographer Martha Clarke.

Philadelphia Inquirer's David Patrick Stearns explores the latest developments in the story of a Paul Hindemith piano concerto, and how the only copy of the piece came to be found in rural PA.

And we visit the Marian Anderson Historical Residence and Museum. This weekend marks the 70th anniversary of the historic concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. wrti
Playwright Edward Albee--Long-Lost Manuscript of The Good Earth at Pearl S. Buck House--New Exhibitions at Philadelphia's Sketch Club and Plastic Club March 28, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with legendary playwright Edward Albee. The Philadelphia Theater Company is presenting his At Home at The Zoo.

Jason Peifer visits the Pearl S. Buck House in Bucks County. An exhibition that includes the long-lost manuscript of Buck's famous novel The Good Earth has opened at the National Historic Landmark home.

Susan Lewis visits the Sketch Club and the Plastic Club on Philadelphia's historic Camac Street, also known as the "Avenue of the Artists." wrti
Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas--National Constitution Center's AMERICA I AM--Philadelphia Theater Company's At Home At The Zoo--Philadelphia's Roots as a Brewery Town March 21, 2009
We listen again to Jim Cotter's recent conversation with conductor Michael Tilson Thomas.

Susan Lewis looks at AMERICA I AM: The African American Imprint, an exhibition at the National Constitution Center exploring the myriad contributions African Americans have made to America.

Jason Peifer previews the Philadelphia Theater's Company production of At Home At The Zoo. We'll hear from playwright Edward Albee about this expanded version of his 1959 play, The Zoo Story.  

Tom Keels uncovers Philadelphia's history as a brewery town and explores the current renaissance. wrti
Harpsichordist Joyce Lindorff--Woodmere Art Museum's Annual Juried Exhibition--''History Hunters'' in Germantown--Fulton Opera House History March 14, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with harpsichordist and Temple University music professor Joyce Lindorff. A celebration of early keyboard music she’s helped organize culminates with a concert featuring music from 18th-century Philadelphia this weekend.

Susan Lewis looks at the Woodmere Art Museum's Contemporary Voices: The 69th Annual Juried Exhibition in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia.

Tom Keels explores the cooperation between Germantown's historic sites and the local school district that has made thousands of students into "History Hunters."

We listen again to Jason Peifer’s exploration of the rich history of the Fulton Opera House in Lancaster--the nation's oldest operating theater. wrti
Composer George Walker--Village of Arts and Humanities--Long-Lost Manuscript of The Good Earth at Pearl S. Buck House March 7, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with composer George Walker. The Philadelphia Orchestra will include his rarely performed Lilacs in upcoming concerts at the Kimmel Center and Carnegie Hall.

Susan Lewis explores North Philadelphia's Village of Arts and Humanities, which evolved from the creation of art parks on abandoned lots into a community-based performing arts program, including theater and dance, spoken word, and video production.

Jason Peifer visits the Pearl S. Buck House in Bucks County. This week, an exhibition that includes the long-lost manuscript of Buck's famous novel The Good Earth opens at the National Historic Landmark home. wrti
Composer Andrea Clearfield--The Chronicles of Narnia exhibition at the Franklin Institute--Wilma Theater's Scorched February 28, 2009
A conversation with composer Andrea Clearfield about music she’s created, inspired by the indigenous art and music of Nepal. Clearfield traveled to a remote Himalayan kingdom last year to research the project.

Susan Lewis visits the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia where The Chronicles of Narnia: The Exhibition, uses the popular children's classics and recent film adaptations as springboards for science education.

Jason Peifer visits The Wilma Theater as it produces the English translation of Scorched, by Wajdi Mouawad. The play, originally written in French, has been produced over 100 times worldwide since its 2003 premiere. wrti
Rising Violin Superstar Benjamin Beilman--Cezanne and Beyond at PMA--Fulton Opera House in Lancaster--New Exhibition at The Center for Emerging Visual Artists February 21, 2009
We speak with the promising young violinist Benjamin Beilman. A Curtis student, he is one of eight winners of Astral Artistic Service's National Auditions. Beilman also recently won the Il Milka/Astral Violin Prize.

Susan Lewis looks at Cezanne and Beyond, the Philadelphia Museum of Art's upcoming exhibition about the impact of the 19th century French artist, called the “Father of Modern Painting.”

Jason Peifer explores the rich history of the Fulton Opera House in Lancaster--considered the nation's oldest operating theatre. We'll hear from the company's artistic director, Marc Robin.

We look ahead to the Alumni Travel Grant Exhibition at The Center for Emerging Visual Artists. wrti
Philadelphia's Arts & Culture Czar Gary Steuer--The Philadelphia Orchestra on Tour--Woodmere Art Museum's Missing Masters--What You Will at Bristol Riverside Theatre February 14, 2009
As the economic downturn continues to bite, we speak with the City of Philadelphia's Chief Cultural Officer, Gary Steuer. Public forums are being held to get community input on the city's approach to arts and culture.

David Patrick Stearns reports on the final week of The Philadelphia Orchestra's tour of Europe and the Canary Islands.

We mark Black History Month by revisiting Susan Lewis' look at In Search of Missing Masters, a show of African-American Art at the Woodmere Art Museum in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia.

Jason Peifer visits the Bristol Riverside Theatre in Bucks County as it opens What You Will, a hip-hop interpretation of William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. wrti
Composer and Performer Simon Shaheen--Philadelphia Dance Projects--Legacy of Charles Darwin--Tenor Placido Domingo January 31, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Simon Shaheen. The Palestinian composer, and oud and violin virtuoso, performs at the Kimmel Center this weekend.

Susan Lewis looks at Philadelphia Dance Projects' upcoming series. Performances over three weekends will pair local contemporary dancers with dance artists from around the country.

Jason Peifer explores the legacy of Charles Darwin, as numerous Philadelphia organizations celebrate the "Year of Evolution." February marks Darwin's 200th Birthday.

David Patrick Stearns profiles Placido Domingo. The super-star tenor performs with the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia in mid-February. wrti
Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg--AMERICA I AM at National Constitution Center--My Name Is Asher Lev at Arden Theatre--Bass-Baritone Eric Owens January 16, 2009
Jim Cotter speaks with Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg. She performs Bruch's first violin concerto in performances with the Philadelphia Orchestra this week.

Susan Lewis looks at AMERICA I AM: The African American Imprint, a new exhibition at the National Constitution Center that explores the myriad contributions African Americans have made to America.

Jason Peifer visits the Arden Theatre in Philadelphia as it premieres an adaptation of Chaim Potok's 1972 novel, My Name Is Asher Lev.

David Patrick Stearns profiles singing sensation Eric Owens. Despite a stellar international career, the Philadelphia-born bass baritone still finds time to regularly perform in his hometown. wrti
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