Mayor’s Musikfest Preview Podcast 2025

Posted On July 31, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Recorded at City Hall’s Payrow Plaza, it’s the Mayor’s Musikfest Podcast 2025, hosted by Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds and Lehigh Valley with Love Media’s George Wacker.

This year’s episode highlights the people powering Musikfest behind the scenes and on stage:

  • Kassie Hilgert, President and CEO of ArtsQuest, shares what’s new and what keeps the festival going after 42 years

  • Patrick Brogan, Chief Programming Officer of ArtsQuest, talks booking hundreds of bands and building a “city within a city”

  • Dave Fry, local music icon who’s performed at every single Musikfest since 1984, joins the conversation and performs live

  • Laura Waits and Cathy Campanaro of Sync Recovery, along with Northampton County Council member Lori Vargo-Heffner, talk about the launch of SoberPlatz, a new alcohol-free space at the festival

  • Meet the Mayor, a long-time local band, reflects on playing Musikfest for the past 8 years

  • Bren closes out the episode with thoughts on artistry, identity, and what it means to perform at Musikfest

Listen for honest conversations, local stories, and a look at how community and music come together every summer in Bethlehem.

Musikfest starts Friday, August 1.
Thank you to everyone who helps make Bethlehem such a special place to live, visit, and celebrate.
Have a great Fest.

Watch Episode

https://youtu.be/VSV_onIlqok

Thank you to our Partners!

L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs

WDIY 88.1 FM

Lehigh Valley Health Network

Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

Banko Beverage Company

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Exploring Zoellner Arts Center’s 2025 Season with Executive Director Mark Wilson

Posted On February 6, 2025 By lvwithlove In /  
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Guests:

  • Mark Wilson – Executive Director, Zoellner Arts Center

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Wilson, Executive Director of Zoellner Arts Center, to discuss the exciting lineup for the 2025 season. We kick things off with a deep dive into Kings Return, the acclaimed a cappella group known for their seamless blend of gospel, jazz, R&B, and classical music, set to perform on February 7. Mark also highlights the pre-show roundtable on mental health featuring Dr. Phillip A. Davis, emphasizing the importance of integrating meaningful discussions with artistic performances.

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We then explore other standout events in Zoellner’s season, including:

  • The Aluminum Show (February 22): A dynamic performance combining dance, visual theater, and humor.
  • Pascuala Ilabaca y Fauna (March 28): A Chilean ensemble bringing a fusion of traditional Latin American music with contemporary influences.
  • The Sound of (Black) Music (March 29): A reimagined take on the classic, infusing it with gospel, funk, and R&B elements.
  • Calpulli Mexican Dance Company (April 4): Presenting “Puebla: The Story of Cinco de Mayo” through vibrant dance and storytelling.
  • R.E.S.P.E.C.T. (April 6): A powerful tribute celebrating the music of Aretha Franklin.

Mark shares insights into Zoellner’s commitment to diverse programming, community engagement, and the vision for the arts center’s future in the Lehigh Valley. Whether you’re an arts enthusiast or new to the scene, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what’s in store for audiences this season.

Links

Watch Episode

 

www.lvwithlove.com
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Thank you to our Partners!
WDIY

Lehigh Valley Health Network

Wind Creek Event Center

Michael Bernadyn of RE/MAX Real Estate

Molly’s Irish Grille & Sports Pub

Banko Beverage Company

Read More